Afghanistan's future is urban. The population of Afghan cities is expected to double within the next 15 years and by 2060, one in every two Afghans will be living in cities. In order to manage such a transition and harness it for economic and social development accurate data and information is essential.

The report and associated data-set are an important first step for strategic planning and evidenced-based decision making to promote productive and inclusive urban growth in Afghanistan. The report is divided into two volumes. Volume One is a narrative report highlighting key issues including municipal governance, the urban economy, access to land and housing and the urban environment. Volume Two contains maps and data for all 34 Provincial Capitals. Volume 1 also available.