he Urban Action Festival by RISE Africa is an annual event offering a vibrant program focused on addressing real-life challenges and solutions for African cities. This festival is an opportunity to deepen engagement around African urban issues by breaking knowledge silos and championing a joyful, future-oriented, solutions-first worldview.

The 2025 festival will take place from 25 to 29 May 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, under the theme “REALISING UNBOUND POSSIBILITIES through policy, research, creativity & practice.” This theme invites business and industry leaders, local government officials, policymakers, innovators, entrepreneurs, creative practitioners, and change-makers to explore sustainable urban futures and the mechanisms needed to bridge ambitious dreams for African cities with actionable plans and solutions.

By fostering a solutions-first, whole-of-society perspective, RISE Africa weaves together policy, research, creativity, and practice to deliver a one-of-a-kind event experience.

Student Discount: Students are eligible for a 50% discount. To apply, email a photo of your student ID and a brief motivational paragraph to riseafrica@iclei.org.