Africa is currently seeing exponential expansion of linear infrastructure (which includes roads, rail, power lines, pipelines, water ways, and fencing), as a result of continental, regional and national economic development targets. In its current form, much of this infrastructure has largely negative consequences for the ecosystems it transects, eroding landscape connectivity, accelerating biodiversity loss and undermining the ecosystem services on which long-term sustainable development relies.

The environmental and infrastructure sectors in Africa are at the early stages of adopting a meaningful collaborative agenda for developing ecologically sustainable linear infrastructure. There are efforts, lessons and knowledge emerging from various parts of the continent which highlight a pressing need to move this agenda forward.

ACLIE 2023 aims to provide a space for leaders from across Africa and the world, and across disciplines and sectors to discuss these questions, adopt new ones, and set the foundations for answering them. It is through this process that we can imaginatively contribute towards shaping a future for the continent which is truly inclusive and green.

Important Dates and Events