Green initiatives in cities sprang up in urban areas across Africa, just as the need for sustainability arose. Statistics reports have revealed that urban areas house more population than rural communities. This is why cities have turned to renewable energy consumption practices to ensure their carbon footprint is reduced to a minimum.
With African urbanisation come some challenges, which include climate change, biodiversity loss, and waste. Many countries now use renewables such as solar, wind, biofuel, and hydropower to battle these challenges. In this article, we have listed the top five countries with green initiatives in cities.
Green Initiatives In Cities In South Africa
Cape Town
It’s no news that Cape Town is one of the cities in South Africa pioneering a more secure energy source. South Africa relies solely on coal for electricity. In 2016, a report revealed that 83% of their electricity came from coal while only 8% accounted for renewables.
Cape Town has created a more affordable energy source by applying green initiative programs. If you visit South Africa, you will notice that most of the residential areas in this city now have a solar rooftop panel. The more interesting part is that some businesses have started using it for business.
Cape Town launched a solar farm project that is believed to power the substations and grid. With the combination of the solar farm and Steenbras Dam, Cape Town’s power grid is about to experience some stability. The green initiatives in cities practised by this country are quite impressive and can be a source of inspiration to other cities.
Johannesburg
Transportation has also been a major challenge as it requires fossil fuels and is one of the biggest contributors to climate change. With this tenacity for a greener solution, they are starting to explore the option of electric buses. In Johannesburg today, Rea Vaya BRT (Bus Rapid Transit ) has also been a good solution for reducing carbon footprint. It’s quicker and more affordable compared to regular public transportation.
The bike-sharing scheme in Johannesburg stands out as a great green initiative in cities idea. This will ensure a cleaner atmosphere and reduce traffic congestion in these cities. People can shift conveniently to a greener mode of transportation.
Morocco Green Initiative In Cities
Casablanca
Morocco’s government’s announcement of the completion of another phase of the New Green City shows their continued dedication to renewables. They now install solar panels in most government buildings as they apply strategic green initiatives in cities. Now, most of their schools, bus stations and hospitals are powered by sunlight. Guess what? Casablanca encourages its residents to imbibe a more sustainable energy source by giving incentives to homeowners and businesses. With these incentives, people can afford to install the rooftop solar system.
Marrakech
Marrakech is a lovely city in Morocco that has taken the green initiative in cities idea to its roots. This city encourages urban farming with rooftop gardens and community spaces dedicated to growing crops, which is rare in cities. Don’t you think this initiative will provide the city with fresh food and a means of education? With the green initiative imbibed by this city, everyone is allowed to contribute their quota to sustainability. It’s a fantastic example of how small, local actions can create a big environmental impact.
Rwanda: A Clean And Green Model City
Kigali: Building With Green Initiatives In Cities
Kigali is one of the most celebrated cities for being the cleanest in Africa, but this didn’t deter them from making an effort towards sustainability. Kigali’s government began with green initiatives in cities, aiming to be one of the model green cities in Africa. Have they achieved this so far? In 2015, Kagali implemented some building rules that included energy-efficient designs. Kigali’s focus on green construction ensures that rapid urbanisation won’t come at the cost of the environment.
The beautiful city of Kagali’s new developments incorporate eco-friendly materials, sustainable water and waste management systems. This development encourages reuse practices by banning the use of plastic bags. Kigali has also taken bold steps to improve waste management, banning plastic bags and implementing recycling programs. Waste separation systems allow residents to recycle easily, while new waste-to-energy plants help convert trash into electricity.
Kenya: Electric Transport and Clean Energy
Nairobi: Leading The Way With Electric Buses
Thanks to green initiatives in cities, Nairobi is becoming a hub for electric mobility in Africa. As a city championing eco-friendly transportation, Nairobi introduced electric buses and tuk-tuks. With the strategic placement of charging stations across the city, more residents and private bus operators opt for electric vehicles.
Mombasa: Harnessing Wind And Solar Power
Mombasa is utilising its natural resources through green initiatives in cities program. They have been focusing on wind and solar power. The Mombasa, new wind farms and solar projects have helped diversify Kenya’s energy sources. This cleaner energy alternative will meet the growing demand for electricity in Kenya. Mombasa is a perfect example of how coastal cities can use renewables to power their cities.
Ghana: Eco-Friendly Housing and Smarter Waste Solutions
Accra: Affordable Green Projects
One of the green initiatives in cities practised by the Accra government was strictly on housing. To encourage sustainability, houses were built using sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs. This makes it easier for families to get affordable, sustainable houses at a very affordable price. In Accra, sustainability is no longer a luxury but an efficient way to live.
Accra’s commitment to sustainability also extends to waste management. The city has rolled out waste separation systems, making recycling easier for residents. Through green initiatives in cities, Accra has introduced waste-to-energy plants. They convert household waste into electricity, turning trash into a valuable resource.
A Greener Future For African Cities
The green initiatives in cities across Africa have shown that sustainability is more than a trend but a movement. South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya, Morocco and Ghana set the pace for other countries to follow. With their smart planning, green innovation and commitment to a cleaner city, this continent may soon become a global leader. It’s an exciting time for urban sustainability in Africa, and with everyone pitching in, the future looks incredibly bright.
