Migration and displacement in African cities are increasingly becoming critical focal points for researchers and policymakers. Constant Cap, Rebecca Enobong Roberts, and Taibat Lawanson, in a discussion on the Curated Conversations podcast, shed light on the overlooked aspects of urban migration governance in Africa.
The conversation delves into the often neglected city-level decision-makers and municipal authorities who play a pivotal role in migration policy. Unlike the common perception of migration being predominantly across international borders, the discussion emphasizes the substantial number of rural inhabitants relocating to urban areas for better prospects, as well as those displaced by environmental factors.
Roberts, Lawanson, and Cap bring attention to the lacunae in knowledge, policy, and planning pertaining to migrants and internally displaced persons within African cities. By drawing parallels between the challenges faced by migrants in East and West African contexts, they advocate for more effective urban migration governance that aligns with the informal strategies and preferences of urban dwellers.
The expertise of the speakers – Constant Cap, an urban planner and researcher in Nairobi, Rebecca Enobong Roberts, a Ph.D. candidate focusing on displacement and forced migration, and Taibat Lawanson, a Professor of Urban Management and Governance at the University of Lagos – enriches the discourse with diverse perspectives and practical insights.
The podcast series, “Curated Conversations: Exploring the Politics of Migration through Ideas,” endeavors to bring forth a fresh narrative on African migration, both within the continent and with global connections. It seeks to amplify African voices, experiences, and intellectual discourse on migration, aiming for a fair and compassionate approach to mobility.
This conversation not only underscores the existing migration policies in Africa but also encourages contemplation on their limitations and the possibilities of alternative approaches. The collaborative efforts of the African Migration Hub, Heinrich Böll Foundation, African Arguments, and the Heinrich Boll Foundation, Horn of Africa Office, in producing this series reflect a concerted endeavor to reshape the dialogue on African migration.
In essence, the intersection of urban migration, displacement, and policy in African cities is a multifaceted and evolving landscape that demands more inclusive and informed governance. The insights shared in this conversation serve as a catalyst for reimagining migration policies and practices within Africa and globally.
