International Consultant - Background Paper For The State Of African Cities Report At Un-Habitat

Objectives of the assignment:To conduct an overview and analysis of urbanization trends in Africa, focusing on key financial indicators.To assess the current state of urban infrastructure, including housing, transportation, water and sanitation, energy, and digital connectivity, across major African cities, with a particular emphasis on their financial sustainability.To identify and analyze key challenges and opportunities associated with urbanization in Africa, including issues related to existing financial institutions, political, economic and legal structures, informality, inequality, climate change, and governance.To highlight best practices and innovative approaches in sustainable urban development across the African continent and beyond.To provide evidence-based recommendations for policy interventions and strategic actions to promote inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities in Africa.Responsibilities:Within assigned authority, the International Communication Consultant will undertake the following duties:Review existing literature, reports, and data sources related to urbanization in Africa, including national census data, academic publications, and relevant multilateral agency reports.Collect and analyze quantitative and qualitative data on urbanization trends, demographic dynamics, economic development, and infrastructure provision in selected African cities.Identify case studies and best practice finance structures for urban development initiatives from different regions of Africa, highlighting lessons learned and transferable practices.Develop a comprehensive report outlining the findings of the analysis, including data visualizations, maps, and graphs to illustrate key trends and patterns.Prepare a set of evidence-based recommendations for policy and practice, tailored to the needs and priorities of African governments and urban stakeholders.Deliverables:Inception Report: A detailed work plan proposing three economic and finance themes for the report, outlining the methodology, data sources and timeline for the completion of the report.Draft Report: A draft background paper for the State of African Cities Report with a focus on financing urban development.This should include economic analysis, finance structure assessments, relevant case studies, findings and recommendations.Final Report: A revised and finalized version of the background paper incorporating feedback from stakeholders and reviewers, accompanied by an executive summary and a policy brief summarizing key findings and recommendations.Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced degree in urban planning, geography, economics, sociology, or a related field is required. A bachelors degree with two additional years of experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Demonstrated expertise in urban research, data analysis, and report writing, with a focus on African cities. A minimum of 10 years experience in urban planning, geography, economics, sociology, or a related field is required.