Africa’s infrastructure is set to receive a giant boost after the United Kingdom (UK) pledged £15 million (~KSh2 billion) in support of development of the sector. The move seeks to enable Africa to thrive and reach its economic potential.
The funding, given to Cities and Infrastructure for Growth programme in Africa, will focus on improvements to infrastructure, including water and energy networks. Additionally, the focal point will be on how cities are planned, built, and run, including making them more environmentally friendly.
Infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth. It helps the poorest people access basic services such as clean water and electricity, creates jobs and boosts business.
International Development Secretary, Alok Sharma
Furthermore, plans are underway for the Department for International Development’s (DFID’s) Cities and Infrastructure for Growth (CiG) programme to expand to Ghana, Rwanda, and Sierra Leone.
CiG is a multi-country DFID programme designed to support inclusive economic growth and job creation. The aim of CiG is to strengthen management of urban, energy, and infrastructure sectors, and also boost investment and to deliver inclusive economic transformation and growth that is climate resilient and contributes to poverty reduction and economic inclusion of disadvantaged groups, in several regions including West Africa, East Africa, and South Asia.
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