The 4th edition of the International Forum on Sustainable Urban Development (Fic) was launched in Cotonou, Benin, on October 8, 2026, by Minister of Environment and Transport, Georges Alé. The three-day event brings together decision-makers, experts, and international stakeholders to develop concrete strategies for building sustainable and resilient African cities in the face of climate change. The rapid urbanization of the continent necessitates a profound revision of territorial planning approaches.
The forum, themed "Economy of African Territories: Accelerating the Transition to Carbon Sobriety," has attracted ministers, builders, researchers, and investors to discuss future solutions. Minister Alé emphasized the need to construct territories that create wealth, improve living conditions, and preserve natural resources. He noted that the construction sector in Africa has often relied on energy-intensive and climate-ill-suited architectural models, which the Cotonou gathering aims to change by promoting the use of local materials and endogenous know-how.
The inaugural session highlighted the contributions of architect Francis Kéré, an international figure committed to eco-friendly and environmentally integrated buildings. Minister Alé explained that sobriety is not a restrictive policy but a strategy for efficiency and innovation. The event also evaluated the operational impact of resolutions from previous editions, with Committee President Victor Ananouh presenting a concrete assessment of implemented initiatives.
According to Ananouh, out of 25 recommendations, 12 have been executed, and the rest are in progress, citing advancements in early warning systems, integrated water management, and plastic material recycling. The construction sector, responsible for 37% of global carbon dioxide emissions, is a priority area for intervention. Ismaïl Yasso, Director-General of Construction and Housing, will oversee the implementation of ecological standards, emphasizing the need to transition from "how to build more" to "how to build better."
Yasso stressed that the transition to sustainable construction requires organization, measurement, and control. To translate priorities into tangible achievements, the event introduced structuring financial devices, including the launch of the Fic Investor Circle and the Fic platform. These initiatives aim to support the development of sustainable and resilient African cities.
The forum provides a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, expertise, and innovative solutions to address the challenges of urbanization and climate change in Africa. By promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices, the event seeks to contribute to the creation of thriving and resilient cities that balance economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection.
The 4th edition of the International Forum on Sustainable Urban Development will conclude with a renewed commitment to implementing sustainable and innovative solutions for Africa's urban development, with a focus on carbon sobriety and eco-friendly practices. The outcomes of the event are expected to shape the future of urban development in Africa and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient continent.
Key points
- The forum aims to develop concrete strategies for building sustainable and resilient African cities in the face of climate change.
- The construction sector is responsible for 37% of global carbon dioxide emissions and is a priority area for intervention.
- The event introduced structuring financial devices, including the launch of the Fic Investor Circle and the Fic platform, to support sustainable urban development.
