Projections indicate that the continued rural-urban migration in search of employment opportunities will create a shift in African cities leading to a large proportion of urban dwellers who will majorly be young people. Our work in this theme utilizes strategic approaches that are essential to position African cities for economic development, transformation, and innovation thus meeting emerging demands of the 21st century. To ensure productive human capital and reduce tensions caused by poverty and inequalities, we examine emerging markets to identify innovations and investments that should be channeled in cities to create essential jobs in the competitive, dynamic and skill-based economy. E4I Africa understands that increased population growth and urbanization will undoubtedly affect human development and the natural environment, which calls for innovative market-driven approaches to combat the effects of climate change, poverty-led conflicts, and job crises. Through our research and programming, we aim to generate evidence that will ensure inclusive development through food security and a population that is peaceful, healthy and productive in the economy. In this theme, we explore applications of diverse theoretical perspectives and knowledge systems considering technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, robotics and automation will affect the employment landscape but also present great benefits in value-chains and competitive business ecosystems.
It is always challenging moving from knowledge production to its application and utilization to guide everyday decision-making processes. There is a heightened expectation that knowledge