1.2 billion people worldwide live in substandard housing, and this number is increasing quickly in the context of rapid urban population growth. An estimated 300 million new homes will be required by 2030 to bridge the global deficit, with the majority concentrated in rapidly urbanising Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. This demand represents an uncrowded US$17 trillion market opportunity.

While the challenge is vast, the potential for impact is enormous. Quality affordable housing with secure tenure and clean water and sanitation is a catalyst for meeting the health and well-being of people living on low incomes. Delivering housing at scale also drives macroeconomic growth, job creation, and financial inclusion, while boosting climate resilience and social cohesion. In the context of the Covid-19 global pandemic, the link between housing and healthcare has never been more evident.