In Africa, the built environment represents not just a space for living but an ecosystem rich with both opportunities and challenges. Nasra Nanda, CEO of the Kenya Green Building Society, believes that the built environment must adopt a people-centred approach, ensuring that all, particularly marginalised groups, can live with dignity and access pathways to improved livelihoods.
Addressing the Unique Needs of the Global South: Dignity at the Core
Nasra Nanda emphasises that the perspectives and needs of the Global South deserve recognition. While the experiences of the Global North hold valuable insights, they do not necessarily apply universally. For instance, technical language around greenhouse gas emissions may not resonate with African audiences, often creating an exclusive rather than inclusive dialogue. For most African citizens, dignity, stable shelter, and access to food lie at the heart of sustainable development.
“As we address climate and sustainability in the Global South, the key question is: how can these efforts tangibly improve people’s lives? Only when people feel secure and stable can we move towards discussions on green infrastructure or carbon markets,” Nanda explains.
Responding to a Growing Youth Population and Rising Demand for Housing
Africa’s youthful and dynamic population is rapidly growing, with significant rural-to-urban migration intensifying the pressure on urban infrastructure. Nanda asserts that this migration should drive economic transformation rather than undermine the agricultural sector. Green jobs in rural areas, she notes, could forge essential connections between sustainable agriculture and forestry, supporting more comprehensive green infrastructure.
“There is a substantial housing demand in Africa, and this presents a tremendous opportunity. By using locally-sourced, low-carbon materials, we can reduce reliance on imports,” says Nanda. “This approach not only supports environmental goals but also strengthens local economies, building a sustainable model that caters to Africa’s unique needs.”
Nanda believes that in Africa, climate and development discussions are inextricably linked. Only through cross-sector collaboration, she argues, can resources flow effectively to areas most in need. The built environment serves as a powerful vehicle for enhancing dignity, fostering sustainable development frameworks, and ultimately enabling stable, prosperous markets across the continent.
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