Resource information
Urbanization is a source of dynamism
that can enhance productivity and increase economic
integration, a principle evident from the experience of
today’s high-income countries and rapidly emerging
economies. Indeed, during the Industrial Age, no country has
achieved sustained increases in national income without
urbanization. If well managed, cities can help countries
accelerate growth and “open the doors” to global markets in
two ways: by creating productive environments that attract
international investment and increase economic efficiency;
and by creating livable environments that prevent urban
costs from rising excessively with increased densification.
By generating agglomeration economies, cities can enhance
productivity and spur innovation and national economic
diversification. The underlying reason for this is economic
density. This report includes the following highlights:
growth will remain lackluster in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2016,
weighed down by low and volatile commodity prices;
addressing growing economic vulnerabilities and developing
new sources of sustainable, inclusive growth are key
priorities for the region; and Africa’s rapid urbanization
offers a potential springboard for economic diversification.
But building cities that work will require reforming land
markets and urban regulations, and coordinating early
infrastructure investments.
