15-minute City and the city of proximity. Global examples and learnings in the context of African cities

Cities take on a leading role in experimenting with and demonstrating pathways towards a liveable, sustainable and inclusive future. Here, the 15-minute City concept brings in a strong vision and narrative, focusing on availability of social infrastructure, mobility, urban planning, citizen engagement based on their needs, and collaboration between all societal sectors.

In this session, we aim to explore the relevance and adaptability of concepts for cities of proximity in the context of African urban environments. By leveraging global experiences and incorporating local realities, the discussion will delve into strategies, policies, and practices brought up by transnational initiatives of Driving Urban Transitions Partnership and the Global Observatory of Sustainable Proximities and contextualise them together with partners from ICLEI Africa and C40 Africa.

Thus, we want to make use of the opportunities provided by WUF 2024 and set out to bring together the organisations’ activities and learnings, connecting to experience with urban change makers in African cities, and provide a base for networking for this important topic of urban transition. We wish to bring in, share and discuss experience and practice on 15-minute City approaches in cities, and contextualise challenges and opportunities in African cities.

In a setting of a panel discussion, we want to create a learning environment for the audience and give ample space for discussion and reflection:

Welcome and Introduction (5’) – brief introduction, outlining the session’s scope and objectives.

First round of snapshot presentations of panellists (15’) – activities and central learnings from the involved organisations

Panel discussion on localising the 15-minute City in Africa: Opportunities and challenges (30’) – discussion on adapting the 15-minute City to African cities, considering urban challenges such as high density, infrastructure deficits, and climate change.

Case study presentation: Success stories and innovations (10’) – impulse presentation by one panel member on successful local pathways to the city of proximity. Focus on innovative approaches to social infrastructure, mobility solutions, and community engagement.

Audience Q&A (20’)

Conclusion and wrap-Up (10’) – recap of key points and strategies discussed. Outline of next steps and opportunities for collaboration and networking at WUF '24 and beyond.

Networking and informal discussions (post-session if possible, 15’) – opportunity for participants to network and exchange contacts for future collaborations.

As time to prepare this session concept was short, we hope to be accepted and have the chance to bring one or two more discussants on board, either from African Centre for Public Space, African Centre for Cities or C40 Africa, based in Kenya.