Making Bad Urban Laws Better: Can the Urban Physician Replace the Urban Politician in Africa?

In response to evolving global priorities and local challenges, our latest research paper, titled "Making Bad Urban Laws Better: Can the Urban Physician Replace the Urban Politician in Africa?" delves into the dynamic landscape of urban policy reform in Africa. Drawing from the Biden administration's strategic shift towards urbanization and the comprehensive analyses of international organizations, we explore the emergence of the "urban physician" – a technocratic figure tasked with enacting policy changes to enhance urban governance. However, our analysis goes beyond surface-level assessments of "bad laws," urging a deeper examination of their origins, impacts, and vested interests. We argue that alongside the urban physician, skilled "urban politicians" are essential for navigating complex political landscapes, building coalitions, and driving meaningful reform. Through a series of case studies and discussions, we shed light on the symbiotic relationship between these two actors and advocate for a holistic approach to urban policy reform in Africa.