The development of African cities came about as a result of one particular social factor: commerce. This reality is highlighted in a Dialogue Migration interview with  Dr. Anoumou Kouassi Rodolphe, a researcher and lecturer at the Regional Centre for Excellence for Sustainable African Cities (Centre d’Excellence Régional sur les Villes Durables en Afrique -CERViDA-DOUNEDON)) and faculty member at the departments of sociology, University of Lomé. Through his analysis, he highlights the role of migration in the emergence of African cities and the benefits that can be derived from these dynamics in promoting integration within diverse communities.

Dialogue Migration: What are the factors that determine the attributes of African cities?

Dr. Anoumou Kouassi Rodolphe: Commercial migration is what gives each city its specific attributes. Lomé developed into a commercial city as a result of the Nana-Benz phenomenon (Togolese business women who were actively engaged in the lucrative commercialisation of Dutch wax fabric between the 1960s and 1980s). People came from all over to buy their fabric which they transported back home to sell. Several communities rapidly joined forces and established a federation. However, over time, as people settled into their new surroundings, the lack of genuine social interaction opportunities led to social conflicts that might have been avoided with better integration initiatives.

What do “commercial cities” contribute  to the reality of integration?

A “trade offspring” can be viewed as a city with a mosaic structure—one that offers a variety of opportunities. It is often said that diversity is an enriching element. So how can we make the most of this diversity? The implementation of urban policies that promote inclusivity is essential in this regard.

Examples?

For instance, today in Lomé, we are Togolese, but we eat Chinese. This is called  “McDonaldisation” in food. Similarly, we are in Lomé, but we tend to eat more of Tchep, because we’ve been ‘colonised’ by our Senegalese brothers who are here. There is no doubt that this fusion of identities will end up co-constructing a new and improved version of who we are.

Despite these trends, integration remains a challenge. So, how is it to be addressed?

In terms of integration, we must begin by developing solidarity policies. France has its national solidarity or community days. Communes should establish Solidarity and Neighbourly Days. As a Togolese, when I get acquainted with my Liberian neighbour, for example, it helps to reinforce integration. This initiative will help to prevent negative stereotyping and encourages us to see others as they truly are. It also creates opportunities for intercultural exchange. Additionally, we need institutional provisions that facilitate integration. For example, foreigners in Lomé are clearly visible; evidently, their presence there is highlighted by their possession of a residence permit—an institutional arrangement that facilitates their stay in the country.

But what about hospitality systems? In our universities, for instance, what policies have been put in place to help incoming students integrate more easily?

In France, when someone comes to study, they not only need a residence permit but also must register with a system to secure a room on campus or find lodging nearby. We may have a valid residence permit, but are we in any way required to deal with any other necessary arrangements or residency formalities?

A structured framework in the system is essential for welcoming migrants to a country. In Togo, for example, the Bureau du citoyen (The Citizen’s Bureau) could incorporate these aspects into its operational policies. Similarly, a municipality could adopt a municipal decree to that effect.