Clearer decisions. Lower risks. Better-performing urban assets.

POLIS Urban supports investors and developers by strengthening the parts of urban projects that most often determine success — but are usually underestimated.

We focus on outcomes that directly affect financial performance, timelines and long-term value.

Reduced investment and delivery risks

Urban projects operate within complex social, economic and institutional environments.

We help identify and manage:

• social and reputational risks;
• community-related delays and conflicts;
• mismatches between project intent and local realities;
• early-stage decisions that create long-term exposure.

Result:
More predictable delivery and fewer costly surprises.

Validated real demand

Many projects are designed for an assumed user — not a real one.

We help clients understand:

• who will actually use the project;
• how people move, spend time and money;
• which functions will perform — and which will not;
• where demand is strong, weak or conditional.

Result:
Better-aligned concepts and stronger market fit before capital is locked in.

Higher utilisation and asset performance

Urban value is created not only by location or design —
but by how intensively and consistently space is used.

Our work helps improve:

• footfall and daily activity;
• functional mix and economic balance;
• connections between uses, people and flows;
• long-term operational resilience.

Result:
Assets that work harder, longer and more consistently.

Long-term stability and social license

In complex environments, project sustainability depends on more than contracts and permits.

We help build:

• acceptance and support from local communities;
• alignment between private investment and public interests;
• resilience to political, economic and social change.

Result:
Projects that remain viable and defensible over time.

What this enables for our clients

Working with POLIS Urban allows investors and developers to:

• make decisions with greater confidence;
• reduce exposure to non-financial risks;
• unlock additional value without increasing CAPEX;
• position projects for long-term success in African markets.

How this connects to our focus areas

Our outcomes are delivered through four interconnected focus areas:

• community engagement,
• research & analytics,
• creative economy development,
• mobility & accessibility.

Each of them is a tool — not an end in itself.

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Let’s talk about your project.
If you are evaluating, developing or repositioning an urban asset in Africa, we’re ready to support informed decisions.