World Habitat Day: Engaging youth to create a better urban future
As we celebrate World Habitat Day, it is crucial to acknowledge the fundamental role youth play in shaping a sustainable urban future. Today’s young people are not merely bystanders to urban development but have the potential to become dynamic agents of change, channelling their energy and creativity into improving cities and building communities that are sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. For the young people to carry out this change, the African continent must empower and engage them to foster environments that provide better living conditions, enhance their civic participation, and open greater opportunities for them.
Urbanisation, while offering growth opportunities, also brings significant challenges. Rapidly expanding cities face issues such as overcrowding, pollution, inadequate infrastructure, and widening social inequality. With their fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and technological fluency, young people are uniquely positioned to address these pressing concerns and become invaluable contributors to urban planning and development. By involving youth in these processes, they become empowered to generate more relevant and forward-thinking solutions that reflect the aspirations and needs of the broader community.
Globally, young people are increasingly taking control of their personal growth and actively engaging with their communities. With the internet and digital resources at their fingertips, they have unprecedented access to information and tools that enable them to educate themselves about issues impacting their lives and cities. Social media, in particular, amplifies their voices, connecting them with like-minded peers and mobilising them for action. From grassroots initiatives championing environmental sustainability to movements advocating for social justice, young people are at the forefront of driving meaningful progress.
However, many young people still face significant barriers that hinder their potential to create positive change. Among the challenges stifling their contributions are limited access to quality education, high unemployment rates, social and political instability, and systemic discrimination—whether based on gender, race, or economic status. These obstacles not only impede young people’s individual development but also weaken communities’ potential to thrive.
To unlock the full potential of youth, particularly in the context of rapid urbanisation, families, communities, organisations, and governments must work together to create environments that support and empower them. This starts with investing in education and vocational training programmes that equip the youth with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive and evolving job market. Accessible education through formal institutions or online platforms enables young people to enhance their knowledge and skills, preparing them to tackle urban challenges head-on.
Moreover, creating platforms for youth participation in decision-making processes is essential. By attending community meetings, joining youth councils, or collaborating with local governments, young people can ensure their perspectives are included in shaping the urban policies that will impact their futures. Civic engagement also extends to the digital space, where technology drives activism through online petitions, awareness campaigns, and community organising. Youth are also well-positioned to innovate solutions for urban challenges. From addressing traffic congestion and waste management to devising affordable housing solutions, their creativity can lead to the development of sustainable urban practices. Social media and other digital tools provide powerful means for advocating change, raising awareness about urban issues, and mobilising peers to take action.
To harness young people’s immense energy and potential, stakeholders at all levels must collaborate to create supportive systems. This year’s World Habitat Day is a reminder to ensure that youth are participants and leaders in creating a brighter, more inclusive future. Their leadership is crucial for the success of urban development initiatives.
