Reflections from ICUH 2024: Advancing Community-Led Urban Health Solutions
Attending the International Conference on Urban Health (ICUH) 2024 was a powerful reminder of the urgency and complexity of challenges facing cities worldwide. Across sessions and discussions, one theme that resonated deeply: the need for community-led, localized solutions that address the intersection of climate resilience, urban equity, and sustainable development.
Urban planning must increasingly integrate data-driven approaches to identify areas most in need of investment and intervention. A cross-sectoral approach ensures that transportation, housing, and environmental planning contribute directly to improving the quality of life in cities. Additionally, addressing the financing gap remains critical. Innovative funding models, including catalytic finance and philanthropy, provide sustainable pathways for inclusive urban development.
At SDI Kenya, our work aligns closely with many of the discussions at ICUH. The emphasis on participatory approaches to data collection, inclusive planning, and grassroots-driven policy advocacy mirrors the methodologies we employ in informal settlements. Our initiatives, such as the physical addressing system in Mathare, structured waste management models, and disaster resilience projects, demonstrate how bottom-up solutions can create a meaningful impact on urban transformation.
Youth-led initiatives are playing an increasingly important role in shaping cities. By incorporating green infrastructure, alternative energy, and public spaces, young planners and activists are redefining urban environments to prioritize well-being. These initiatives align closely with participatory urban planning approaches, ensuring that communities play an active role in decision-making. The emphasis on youth leadership reinforces the importance of co-designed urban spaces that promote equity, sustainability, and resilience.
One key takeaway from ICUH was the growing recognition that urban challenges cannot be solved in silos. Conversations around climate adaptation, nature-based solutions, and infrastructure development reinforced the importance of integrating different sectors to create livable, thriving cities. These discussions highlighted the need for policies that are inclusive and reflective of local realities, a principle embedded in our community-driven upgrading processes.
Equity in urban development must be tied to the co-benefits of sustainable infrastructure reducing environmental impacts while enhancing community well-being. Investing in emergency response mechanisms and climate-adaptive infrastructure ensures cities are resilient against both environmental shocks and socio-economic challenges. These strategies position urban areas as proactive agents in shaping a more sustainable and just future.
Another critical discussion revolved around the power of participatory research and community-driven data. SDI Kenya’s use of settlement profiling and community-led enumerations reflects global best practices in empowering residents to shape the policies that affect their lives. The ICUH sessions reinforced that data collected at the community level should inform decision-making and serve as a tool for advocacy and long-term structural change.
A major challenge discussed was the need for stronger partnerships between local organizations, governments, and global institutions. As cities navigate increasing risks related to climate and urbanization, multi-sector collaboration will be key to scaling up successful interventions. ICUH highlighted promising models of cooperation that can be adapted to our work in Kenya.
Moving forward, the insights gained from ICUH will strengthen our commitment to advancing community-led urban solutions. By fostering partnerships, leveraging participatory data, and advocating for policies that prioritize informal settlements, we can push for more resilient and inclusive cities. The future of urban development lies in collective action. Let’s continue the conversation and build bridges between research, policy, and grassroots action. #CommunityLedSolutions #ICUH2025 #SDIKenya
In her interview, Nicera Wanjiru shares the impactful stories of two young residents from Kibera informal settlement, Vivian Vushele and Charles Gicura, as they reflect on how the Covid-19 pandemic has transformed their lives. Both faced significant challenges: Vivian experienced her parents' separation, while Charles had to pivot from a career in hospitality due to the industry's collapse. Their narratives highlight the emotional and economic upheaval that many young people endured during this unprecedented time.
In this piece, Jacob Omondi, Jackline Waithaka, and Jane Wairutu discuss the profound impact of COVID-19 on youth in informal settlements like Mathare, Nairobi. The pandemic has exacerbated job losses and financial instability, particularly affecting those in the informal economic sector, where many young people rely on daily earnings from their businesses.
In Loitoktok, Kajiado County, a women’s group is transforming lives through resilience and innovation. With support from the Next Level Grant Facility under Voices for Just Climate Action, they’ve expanded urban farming and beekeeping, proving the power of collective action in climate adaptation and economic empowerment.
Join our newsletter to stay up to date on news and projects.
By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy and provide consent to receive updates from our organization.
.svg)
