This free online course on Making Housing Markets Work in African Cities is curated by the Centre for Affordable Housing Finance in Africa (CAHF), Johannesburg, in partnership with the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS), The Urban Real Estate Research Unit (URERU), University of Cape Town, RSA and the African Union for Housing Finance (AUHF). The MOOC is supported and hosted by African Cities Lab located at EPFL Switzerland.
Course description
Housing finance in Africa matters. The lack of adequate and affordable housing requires action.
The impact of housing finance is far-reaching, influencing the types of housing constructed, the methods employed in building, and the support housing provides to our daily lives and livelihoods. In numerous African households, the absence of a comfortable home, let alone a conducive work environment, underscores the urgency for action. Fortunately, innovative strategies exist that have the potential to positively transform the housing landscape across the continent.
This comprehensive MOOC dives into affordable housing, exploring housing finance within African cities. Some key questions addressed include:
- How does housing impact the economy?
- What is the demand for and affordability of housing?
- What are housing supply networks?
- How are the steps to constructing, maintaining and transacting housing financed across African settlements?
- What are innovative financial instruments?
- How can these be expanded down-market?
Do I have the right profile?
The course caters to a diverse audience of housing professionals, encompassing developers, lenders, small-scale organizations, micro-builders, bankers, and practitioners across Africa who seek deeper insights into affordable housing finance for the betterment of housing outcomes, future urban landscapes and a more prosperous Africa. Expert insights from practitioners and academics at the forefront of innovative housing finance approaches on the continent are interwoven into the course, facilitated by interactive and engaging content. Case studies and dynamic discussion forums further enrich the learning experience, drawing from a multitude of African cities.
How can I join this course?
The course is available on the African Cities Lab Open edX platform. The sign-up is free, but you will need to create an account if you wish to participate.