Incorporating Sustainability into Development Plans in Selected African Cities

African cities face critical challenges in delivering essential services due to limited financial resources and vulnerabilities to climate change impacts, such as floods, and water and energy insecurity. Many cities lack adequate stormwater drainage infrastructure and capacity, hindering their ability to implement environmental sustainability projects. Reports show that two-thirds of sub-Saharan African cities are “at extreme risk” from climate change, threatening local infrastructure and development. Climate change mitigation and adaptation require integration across all sectors, as development without environmental considerations can exacerbate vulnerabilities. This study evaluated how selected African cities have incorporated environmental sustainability into their development plans, using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) mainstreaming framework for assessment. The research employed a qualitative approach through thematic content analysis, examining both successes and challenges in mainstreaming environmental sustainability. Findings indicate varying success levels, with some cities excelling in integrating certain environmental sustainability dimensions, while others face significant barriers. The study identifies key enablers and impediments to the effective incorporation of environmental sustainability into urban development, concluding that, while some aspects of environmental sustainability mainstreaming are well addressed, others remain inadequately integrated. These findings underscore the need for a more systematic and comprehensive approach to embedding environmental sustainability within urban development policies and practices across African cities.