UN: Half of Afghanistan’s Population to Live in Cities by 2060

DID Press: UN Human Settlements Programme has projected that nearly half of Afghanistan’s population will be living in urban areas by 2060, warning that many of the country’s cities are not prepared to accommodate such rapid growth.

In a post on X on Thursday, UN-Habitat said one in every two Afghans is expected to reside in urban areas by 2060, noting that the country’s cities already face significant challenges in coping with population growth.

The agency stressed that prioritizing safe, inclusive, and livable cities is essential to ensuring an adequate quality of life and called for long-term urban planning and sustained investment in sustainable development.

According to the report, Afghan cities continue to face major infrastructure shortages, including limited access to safe drinking water, healthcare services, reliable electricity, public transportation, and adequate housing.

UN-Habitat said rapid urbanization has accelerated over recent decades as many Afghans have moved to cities in search of security, employment, education, and basic services. Conflict-related displacement, natural disasters, and economic hardship have also contributed to urban population growth.

The agency warned that without sustained investment in infrastructure and effective urban planning, rapid population growth could place greater pressure on housing, healthcare, education, water resources, and municipal services. It also cautioned that unplanned urban expansion could increase informal settlements, environmental degradation, and vulnerability to climate-related hazards.

UN-Habitat said it is working with local communities and international partners on urban planning, housing, land management, and infrastructure development projects, describing sustainable urban development as a key pillar for improving Afghanistan’s social and economic conditions.