Exploring the influence of power on the governance of climate im/mobility in Accra and Dakar

Cities are increasingly affected by the changing climate and a corresponding mobility and immobility of people. Hence, localising global and national frameworks and policies on climate im/mobility at the city level is increasingly important. This discussion paper examines how urban governance in two West African cities, Accra and Dakar, addresses climate im/mobility, focusing on the role of power in shaping urban climate governance processes. The study applies a qualitative approach, involving a review of climate action plans for both cities and interviews with key informants in the field, to investigate the presence or absence of climate im/mobility considerations in urban governance and the power dynamics influencing these processes. Results show that diverse interests of stakeholders significantly influence urban climate governance and its linkages to im/mobility. Power is observed in the interests of involved actors, in the limited financial capacity of both cities, lack of transferred competence and limited knowledge on climate im/mobility. The study recommends better vertical coordination, allocation of competencies to city authorities, equitable policy development, enhanced knowledge sharing, and the addressing of data gaps to improve urban responses to climate-induced mobility challenges. These findings are relevant for stakeholders and policy-makers working to integrate climate im/mobility into urban governance frameworks.