We focus on systems-based, holistic approaches to improve development impact across sectors in the context of urbanization. Partnerships, private sector engagement, and local capacity building are central to our efforts.
Cities are the engines of economic growth and self-reliance, accounting for over 70 percent of global GDP. USAID works with partner countries to address the challenges and opportunities of urbanization across all of the regions in which we work. This includes strengthening municipal governance and accountability, increasing domestic resource mobilizations, and improving urban service delivery among other issues. We also work to address critical global challenges that are rooted in urban issues, such as ocean plastic pollution resulting from poor municipal waste management in rapidly growing cities of the developing world.