Kathy Gibson reports from the World Economic Forum on Africa in Cape Town – Cities hold the key to Africa’s growth, as incubators of innovation and growth.
This is the word from Cape Town executive mayor Patricia de Lille, ahead of the World Economic Forum on Africa taking place in Cape Town this week.
In Africa, cities are top of the agenda as the continent experiences the fastest-ever urbanisation trend, a topic that is expected to be discussed at the WEF.
“As host city, Cape Town is taking the opportunity to showcase its strategy and demonstrate why Cape Town regards itself as a key gateway for the growth and development of Africa,” De Lille says.
“Cape Town has prioritised an enhanced African agenda to connect with new markets in Africa.”
However, she believes cities cannot operate in isolation, and urges cities across the continent to work together. “In this way, cities can access information and opportunities, and benefit from shared experiences.”
Cape Town has signed partnering agreements with a number of cities in Africa and will be pursuing opportunities across the continent, she adds.
“The question is: how can we do better as a continent?”