Paper short abstract:

Drawing on a global study of SDG 11 and urban targets and indicators in other SDGs, as well as the NUA, this paper assesses the current situation with respect to Africa. Diverse evidence is assessed, including localisation and knowledge co-production initiatives to promote urban equity and justice.

Paper long abstract:

Drawing on a major global study of the formulation and reception of, and engagement with, SDG 11 and urban targets and indicators in other SDGs, as well as the NUA, this paper assesses the current situation with respect to Africa. The range of available evidence includes participation in a pilot test of draft targets and indicators; primary and secondary data on subsequent diverse efforts to implement the SDGs; the effectiveness of multi-level governance in different African contexts, and the inclusion of urban components within Nationally Determined Contributions to Paris Agreement emissions reduction targets. City size biases in favour of large(r) cities are evident, as are widely different degrees of commitment and active engagement. Interesting examples of localisation highlight that such global agendas can be put to work in promoting urban justice through improved living conditions, environmental quality and governance in African cities. On current trends, there is little prospect of most SDG targets and indicators, and especially SDG 11, and the NUA being achieved but they are probably making a positive difference despite the derailing effects of the COVID pandemic and current energy and food price crises.