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The Sustainable Urban Economic Development (SUED) Programme, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), represents a transformative initiative designed to promote climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable growth in secondary cities across Kenya. Managed by Tetra Tech International Development, SUED targets fast-growing municipalities that are often overlooked by traditional development models. Through its holistic framework, SUED bridges economic planning, investment attraction, and climate resilience, fostering integrated urban development that has far-reaching implications not only for urban centers but also for the surrounding rural communities. This essay explores SUED's core activities, innovative methodologies, and the resulting socioeconomic impacts.

1. Urban Economic Planning (UEP)

At the foundation of SUED's implementation is the creation of Urban Economic Plans (UEPs), which are participatory, data-driven frameworks that guide economic and spatial development. Unlike traditional planning models that emphasize physical infrastructure alone, UEPs integrate economic diagnostics with spatial planning to identify key value chains, investment opportunities, and infrastructure needs.

Each UEP is developed through a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process involving municipal governments, local businesses, community groups, and technical experts. This participatory approach ensures that the plans are locally owned, contextually relevant, and economically viable. For example, in the municipality of Iten, the UEP identified the potential for potato processing as a critical economic driver, leading to the development of a multimillion-pound agri-processing facility (SUED, 2024).

2. Investment Mobilization and Seed Funding

A distinguishing feature of SUED is its focus on leveraging public and private sector investment to implement priority projects identified in the UEPs. To this end, SUED provides catalytic seed funding that helps to de-risk investments and attract additional financial commitments.

This approach has been especially effective in mobilizing resources for climate-resilient infrastructure and productive value chains. For instance, in Malindi, SUED facilitated the development of a Waste-to-Value facility that transforms faecal sludge into fuel briquettes. This innovative project not only addresses sanitation challenges but also supports green job creation and energy sustainability (SUED Kenya, 2023).

By February 2025, SUED had mobilized over £64 million in investments, impacting nearly 200,000 households and creating over 52,000 jobs. These figures underscore the programme's effectiveness in catalyzing inclusive economic growth (Tetra Tech, 2025).

3. Climate Resilience Integration

Climate change adaptation is a core pillar of SUED's methodology. Each UEP incorporates climate risk assessments and identifies resilience-building measures tailored to local vulnerabilities. Projects are then designed to mitigate these risks while promoting sustainability.

In Isiolo, for example, SUED supported the construction of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDs) to manage stormwater and reduce flooding, a recurring issue in the region. This intervention not only enhances climate resilience but also protects livelihoods and public health (SUED Kenya, 2023).

Additionally, SUED promotes green technologies such as solar-powered facilities, sustainable waste management systems, and climate-smart agriculture. These interventions are aligned with Kenya's National Climate Change Action Plan and contribute to the country's broader environmental goals (Government of Kenya, 2018).

4. Capacity Building and Governance Strengthening

A critical enabler of SUED's success is its investment in local capacity building. Recognizing that sustainable development hinges on strong institutions, SUED works to enhance the capabilities of municipal governments and local stakeholders.

Through tailored training programs, technical assistance, and mentorship, SUED equips local leaders with the skills needed to manage urban growth, attract investment, and oversee infrastructure projects. This capacity-building extends to financial management, procurement, monitoring and evaluation, and climate risk planning (Tetra Tech, 2025).

Moreover, SUED strengthens governance structures by promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive decision-making. These efforts ensure that the benefits of development are equitably distributed and that communities have a voice in shaping their futures.

5. Rural-Urban Linkages and Spillover Benefits

Although SUED targets urban municipalities, its impacts extend well into rural areas. By strengthening urban-rural value chains, such as agriculture and agri-processing, SUED creates markets for rural producers, increases incomes, and reduces urban migration pressures.

For example, the fruit processing ventures in Malindi and the potato processing facility in Iten create demand for agricultural produce from surrounding rural areas. This integration of rural economies into urban value chains enhances food security, fosters inclusive growth, and bridges the rural-urban divide (SUED Kenya, 2024).

6. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)

To ensure accountability and continuous improvement, SUED implements a robust Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) framework. This system tracks progress against key performance indicators, evaluates impact, and captures lessons learned to inform adaptive programming.

The MEL approach is participatory and iterative, involving feedback loops with stakeholders at all levels. It enables SUED to remain responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities while building a rich repository of evidence to guide future urban development initiatives (Tetra Tech, 2025).

7. Implications for Nigeria: Adapting the SUED Model to Rural Development

With Nigeria facing significant challenges in transforming its rural communities, the SUED model offers a practical, scalable, and impactful framework. Like Kenya, Nigeria has rapidly growing secondary cities that can serve as anchors for broader regional development. Adopting SUED's participatory Urban Economic Planning process would empower local governments in Nigeria to develop bespoke economic blueprints that integrate rural and urban interests.

Investment mobilization through seed funding, a key SUED feature, could be replicated by aligning Nigeria's development finance institutions and public-private partnerships to de-risk critical rural infrastructure projects. In addition, embedding climate resilience especially in flood-prone rural areas like those in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and Delta regions would enhance long-term sustainability.

Capacity building and governance reforms tailored to Nigeria’s federal structure could ensure transparency and efficiency in project implementation. Moreover, linking agricultural productivity in rural Nigeria to value chains connected with nearby urban markets would stimulate economic activity, reduce poverty, and curb rural-urban migration. Through effective adaptation of SUED’s proven strategies, Nigeria could unlock inclusive rural transformation anchored in climate-smart urban economic planning.

Conclusion

The SUED Programme stands out as a pioneering model for sustainable urban economic development in the Global South. Its integrated approach combining economic planning, investment mobilization, climate resilience, capacity building, and governance reform demonstrates that inclusive, climate-smart urbanization is achievable with the right strategies and partnerships.

By anchoring urban growth in the realities of local economies and embedding sustainability at every stage, SUED not only transforms cities but also revitalizes rural communities through strengthened linkages and shared prosperity. As cities across Africa grapple with the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, the SUED model offers a compelling blueprint for holistic, equitable development—and a relevant guide for nations like Nigeria in their rural transformation journeys.

Northern Nigeria is an agricultural giant. Fields stretch for miles, farmers work tirelessly, and local markets buzz with trade. Yet, despite all this, the region struggles with low tax revenue, economic instability, and a host of other problems. But how is this possible?

Well, there is more than enough evidence to show that the problem isn’t that farming is not making enough money. So, what is? Where exactly does the problem lie, and what can we do about it? In this video, we explore the sheer scale of the industry, all the challenges it is facing at the moment, and what needs to be done if we are going to leverage the opportunities that it offers.

With that being said, let’s get into the video.

The Powerhouse of Agriculture

Agriculture makes up 25.2% of Nigeria’s GDP, and it’s even more dominant in Northern Nigeria. For most other regions they rely on industries or services, but in this often-overlooked part of the country, farming is the backbone. However, there’s a catch. The sector is largely informal.

When businesses aren’t officially registered, the government can’t collect taxes from them, leaving a huge amount of money and opportunities for growth on the table.

It’s a cycle that keeps farmers struggling and public services underfunded… but there is more.

The Missed Opportunity

Northern Nigeria isn’t just good at farming. it excels at producing high-value crops like sesame seeds, hibiscus, ginger, coffee, and moringa. These are crops the world is willing to pay top dollar for. But most of these products never make it past local markets, and those that do often go through informal channels, meaning the government doesn’t get a cut.

So, how do we turn this around? How do we ensure that Northern Nigeria gets its fair share from agriculture while empowering farmers? The answer lies in three key changes.

1. Formalizing Agribusinesses

One of the biggest challenges is that most farmers aren’t officially registered as businesses. Without registration, they don’t pay taxes, and without taxes, the government can’t fund essential infrastructure like roads, storage facilities, and export hubs.

Imagine if the government incentivized farmers to form cooperatives and register their agribusinesses. By doing this, they’d gain access to better financial support, government subsidies, and guaranteed buyers for their crops. It’s a win-win situation.

Beyond just registration, there needs to be education on business structuring. Many farmers operate on a small scale, selling whatever they can at the local market without long-term planning and the potential benefits that they offer. Training programs on financial literacy, crop management, and market expansion could help farmers transition from subsistence farming to sustainable agribusinesses.

If farmers understand their role as business owners, they can start making better decisions about crop selection, investment, and scaling up production. Financial literacy workshops, peer mentorship programs, and farmer cooperatives could help bridge this knowledge gap, creating a more business-minded agricultural sector.

Now, let’s talk about taxes.

2. Smarter Tax Collection

While nobody loves paying them, they’re essential for building infrastructure and improving farming conditions. Other countries in Africa have already figured out smarter and better ways to tax their agricultural sectors without burdening small farmers.

For example, in Uganda, the government introduced a mobile tax payment system so farmers could pay taxes from their phones. The Ethiopian government placed a tax on processed coffee exports, making it more profitable to keep production local, while Rwanda launched nationwide farmer tax education campaigns to simplify tax compliance.

Similar strategies like mobile tax payments, tiered VAT structures, and tax education programs, if implemented efficiently in Nothern Nigeria, could drastically increase tax revenue while still supporting farmers.

It is also worth noting that tax incentives can play a crucial role. Farmers who adopt improved agricultural techniques, invest in mechanization, or enter the export market could receive tax breaks or grants. This approach encourages growth while ensuring compliance.

Government policies could also include tax rebates for farmers who meet sustainability standards or export quotas, encouraging ethical and profitable farming practices. With clear, structured incentives, compliance becomes a benefit rather than a burden.

And while we are talking about burdens, we have to talk about infrastructure.

3. Infrastructure and Investment

Infrastructure is yet another major bottleneck for farmers in this region of Nigeria. In fact, it is safe to say that it may just be the most pressing problem here.

Bad roads, poor storage facilities, and inefficient logistics make it hard for farmers to transport goods to export hubs. Also, without proper storage, crops rot before they can even be sold. So, how do we fix this problem?

This is where the private sector can help. If the government partners with agribusiness firms and financial institutions, we could see investments in better roads, mechanized farming, and modern storage facilities. These changes wouldn’t just boost tax revenue, they’d revolutionize the entire agricultural sector.

Take mechanization, for example. Many Northern Nigerian farmers still rely on traditional tools. These are highly inefficient, thereby keeping productivity on the decline. Investing in tractors, irrigation systems, and processing plants could significantly increase yield and income. However, these machines are expensive, and many farmers can’t afford them.

If there are government-backed credit schemes or cooperative ownership models in place, the burden of purchase becomes a lot lighter. If groups of farmers could pool resources to lease or purchase equipment, they could scale their production efficiently.

Now, this isn’t just a theory, it’s already happening in Kano State.

The Proof: Kano’s Hibiscus Boom

With the growing demand for hibiscus in Mexico, farmers in Kano State, Nigeria, have already started leveraging this demand. This has led to higher earnings, more formal business registrations, and better tax compliance.

But this success didn’t happen overnight. It took organization, investment, and an understanding of international markets. It starts with identifying high-demand crops, and then by streamlining the export processes, the government can help more farmers benefit from the global market. Moringa, for instance, is in high demand for its medicinal properties. Proper investment in processing and packaging could turn it into a major export product, and this is just one of the many possible products.

However, all of this would be mostly tedious without the integration of technology and digital solutions.

Bridging the Gap Between Farmers and Technology

If the agricultural sector in Northern Nigeria is going to see any significant change, then there must be support for proper digitization. Helping local farmers move from manual systems that slow down productivity and make it difficult to scale to quicker solutions for everyday problems faced by these farmers. And it does not need to be anything out of this world, at least not at first.

Mobile banking and digital marketplaces could connect Northern Nigerian farmers directly to buyers, eliminating middlemen who often exploit them. Think about all the good and ease that could come from E-commerce platforms, farm-to-market apps, and blockchain-based supply chains. Altogether, these will ensure transparency and fair pricing for products and everything in between.

In Kenya, for example, digital payment solutions like M-Pesa have transformed small-scale farming by giving farmers direct access to financial services. A similar approach in Northern Nigeria could help farmers save, invest, and expand their businesses.

Blockchain technology could also enhance the supply chain, providing transparency and security in transactions. By using digital records, farmers can establish credibility, making it easier for them to access credit and negotiate better prices or even installment payment structures.

Conclusion: A Future of Opportunity

So, what’s the takeaway? Northern Nigeria has the resources, the land, and the workforce to become a global agricultural powerhouse. But without formalization, smart taxation, and better infrastructure, the region will continue to struggle with low revenue and economic instability.

If policymakers, businesses, and farmers come together, this transformation is possible. It requires not just policy changes but also a cultural shift. The entire sector needs to be transformed from just being a means of survival to the massive potential for profitable business that it carries.

The potential is massive. More revenue for the government means better roads, better schools, and better healthcare. More investment in agribusiness means job creation and economic stability. More direct access to markets means farmers can finally earn what they deserve.

Technology, education, and investment hold the keys to this transformation. With the right steps, Northern Nigeria can not only feed itself but also become a major player in the global agricultural economy.

The path is clear. The solutions exist. The only question is, will we act? Or will we let this opportunity slip away?

In recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has moved from being a buzzword in global boardrooms to a strategic imperative across emerging markets—including Africa. As the continent continues to rise as a frontier of opportunity, African businesses, governments, and development institutions are increasingly being called to operate with responsibility, resilience, and long-term vision.

At 1st Avenue, we’ve seen firsthand how embedding ESG practices not only builds reputational capital but unlocks real economic and social value. Here's why ESG is no longer optional for African enterprises—and why now is the time to act.

The Global Shift Toward Sustainability

Global investors are prioritizing ESG compliance when evaluating risk and return. Multinational partners are demanding stronger governance. Consumers are choosing brands that reflect their values. These trends are not confined to Europe or North America—they're reshaping how business is done in Africa too.

According to a recent Global Sustainable Investment Review, sustainable investment now represents over $35 trillion globally. As these funds look toward high-growth regions, African businesses that can demonstrate ESG alignment will be better positioned to attract capital and partnerships.

ESG as a Driver of Resilience

Africa faces unique environmental and social challenges—from climate volatility to youth unemployment and infrastructural deficits. Far from being a burden, ESG offers a framework for building resilience. Businesses that assess their environmental footprint, engage with local communities, and adopt transparent governance structures are more agile in the face of shocks—whether economic, climatic, or reputational.

For example, agribusinesses that adopt climate-smart practices are better protected against erratic rainfall and soil degradation. Companies that promote gender inclusion are more likely to retain talent and maintain community goodwill. It’s all interconnected.

Opportunities for Innovation and Growth

One of the most exciting aspects of ESG in Africa is its potential for innovation. Rather than retrofitting solutions from the West, businesses here can leapfrog outdated models and design sustainability into their operations from the ground up.

Think solar-powered irrigation for smallholder farms. Blockchain for transparent supply chains. Community-based waste-to-energy projects. ESG isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing business better.

The Role of Advisory and Capacity Building

Despite the urgency, many African organizations struggle with where to begin. ESG frameworks can seem complex or foreign. That’s where trusted local advisors like 1st Avenue come in. We help businesses understand their current ESG baseline, build tailored strategies, and report their progress with confidence. Through training, audits, and ongoing support, we demystify ESG and turn it into a practical, powerful tool for growth.

Final Thoughts

ESG is not just about ticking boxes. It’s about creating long-term value, earning trust, and doing what’s right for people and the planet. African businesses that embrace this shift early will not only lead the market—they’ll shape the future.

At 1st Avenue, we’re proud to be part of that transformation.

Discover the 10 Key Focus Points for Nigeria's Agricultural Sector in 2025 with Dr. Maulud Tafida-Isa. Learn how climate-resilient farming, digital transformation, export strategies, and modern tools can tackle food security, reduce inflation, and empower Nigerian farmers. Watch this video for actionable insights and a roadmap to a sustainable agricultural future in Nigeria!

**Disclaimer

This video was created using stock footage to visually represent the discussed concepts. The visuals are for illustrative purposes only and may not directly reflect specific locations, individuals, or events mentioned in the content.