What is wrong with us? We celebrate buildings but neglect the systems that keep cities alive

Across many African cities today, skylines are changing rapidly: Glass towers are rising. Luxury apartments are multiplying. Commercial high-rise developments are appearing where low-density structures once stood. Urban centres increasingly project the image of modernisation and economic progress. At first glance, this appears encouraging. After all, urban growth is often interpreted as a sign of development and investment confidence. But beneath the excitement of rising skylines lies a deeply uncomfortable question that too few African societies are asking honestly: Where are the expanded sewage systems? Where are the upgraded drainage networks? Where are the reinforced water supply systems? Where are the integrated transport corridors? Where are the modern waste management systems? Where are the power systems capable of supporting this vertical urban expansion sustainably?

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