Lusaka, Zambia
6th March, 2023
The Charter Cities Institute (CCI) and the Centre for Urban Research and Planning (CURP) and the Department of Geography at the University of Zambia (UNZA) have forged a transformative partnership to tackle the urgent and complex challenges facing African cities. A letter of agreement was signed on March 6, 2023, at the University of Zambia main campus between the two institutions with intent to sign an MOU by the end of the year that outlining longer term cooperation.
CCI and UNZA are joining forces to build and exchange knowledge, ideas, and information on issues related to poverty alleviation, urban development, and the future of cities in Zambia and Africa at-large. Through a range of activities and goals, the partnership seeks to establish a dynamic platform for rethinking, studying, and reimagining the future of urbanization in the region.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mwanda Phiri, Africa Lead of Charter Cities Institute, said, “This partnership with the University of Zambia represents a significant step in realizing CCI’s goal of lifting tens of millions of people out of poverty by creating vibrant, prosperous, and opportunity-rich cities. Our focus will be on creating innovative approaches that can be replicated across the country and the continent.”
The partnership aligns with UNZA’s mission to promote research, innovation, and development for the benefit of society. The Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNZA, Professor Anne Sikwibele, emphasized that “new partnerships and collaborations between the private sector, NGOs, and learning institutions need to be formed to rethink, study and reimagine the future of urbanization in the region, to address major challenges, and unleash the potential of cities to foster inclusive and sustained economic development.”
The collaboration between the two institutions will include the formation of short-term interdisciplinary course, “Rethinking African Cities”, the development of an accredited course, internships, and research opportunities. The collaboration also includes co-developing a public lecture series on urbanization and co-creation and participation in CCI and Lusaka Urban Lab’s various activities.
