CAIRO, Oct 13 (MENA) – Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) Anacláudia Rossbach said Cairo is the best host of the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF) as the city represents all challenges and potentials for achieving sustainable urban development.
She said this year’s forum is organized in collaboration with the Egyptian government and marks a significant return to Africa after more than two decades.
With the theme “It all starts at home: Local actions for sustainable cities and communities,” WUF12 will emphasize the vital role of cities in driving sustainable development and tackling global challenges such as the housing crisis, climate change, and social displacement.
She said this year’s slogan is stressing solutions should begin where people live and work.
The UN’s official was speaking at a press conference in the government’s HQ in the New Administrative Capital (NAC) on Sunday to announce details of the convocation of WUF12 in Cairo, Egypt, in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.
Rossbach thanked the Egyptian government for hosting WUF12 and its commitment to the achievement of sustainable, urban development.
WUF12, convened by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat), will take place in Cairo from 4 to 8 November 2024, returning to the African continent after more than 20 years after its inception in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2002.
WUF12 is a new chapter to all who are working together to address challenges and create new chances in the construction of cities and communities, according to her.
She called for seizing the chance of the convocation of the forum as a turning point in collective efforts to build sustainable, inclusive and resilient cities.
The event is set to attract over 10,000 participants from 168 countries, including representatives from governments at all levels, urban planners, business leaders, civil society organizations, and local communities.
WUF12 will offer a platform for diverse stakeholders to come together and discuss innovative solutions for the most urgent urban issues. Attendees will engage in more than 500 events, explore a comprehensive Urban Expo, and participate in Cairo Urban Week, a series of activities designed to connect the Forum with the city and its local communities.
During the press conference, speakers provided an overview of the main topics to be addressed at WUF12, including the global housing crisis, climate resilience, financing sustainable development, partnerships for local action, technological innovation, and the impact of displacement and loss of home. Further details about the Urban Expo, partner-led events, and networking opportunities will also be shared. (MENA)
