12th World Urban Forum kicksoff in Egypt with 30K participants

CAIRO – 4 November 2024: The 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12), the principal UN conference on sustainable urban development, began in Egypt with the participation of 30,000 people from 180 countries.

This event is the first of its kind hosted by an African nation in two decades and aims to spotlight Egypt's progressive approach to urban transformation while tackling global housing challenges.

Egyptian Minister of Housing and Urban Communities, Sherif El-Sherbini, opened the session by underscoring Egypt's successful implementation of integrated urban projects. These efforts are part of Egypt's Vision 2030, aimed at aligning development goals with local context to create balanced, sustainable growth. The minister elaborated on the government's emphasis on building comprehensive urban areas that go beyond simple housing solutions.

Local Development Minister Manal Awad highlighted that hosting WUF12 aligns with Egypt's commitment to sustainable development and achieving the United Nations' goals. Dr. Awad stressed the significance of empowering local authorities and fostering partnerships across government levels, private sectors, and civil organizations to ensure comprehensive and inclusive urban growth.

WUF12 features several assembly meetings focused on vital topics, including gender equality, youth participation, and local governance. Minister El-Sherbini mentioned the Women's Assembly's focus on removing barriers hindering women's progress and promoting educational and vocational opportunities to enhance their societal role.

UN-Habitat Executive Director Anna Claudia Rossbach commended Egypt's hosting of WUF12, noting it directs global attention to the nation's modern developmental experiences. She also announced Azerbaijan as the upcoming host for WUF13. Rossbach highlighted the significant housing challenges faced by 3 billion people worldwide, emphasizing the need for sustainable, youth-led solutions to these pressing issues.

The forum will conduct 600 events, including high-level dialogues and a roundtable on multilevel governance to accelerate the implementation of urban agendas. Notable initiatives include the launch of the "2024 Global Cities Report," focusing on cities' climate resilience and sustainable development.

The forum's hosting in Egypt underscores the nation's strategic position as a hub for urban development and its leadership in comprehensive urban initiatives under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Egypt's recent urban projects have notably included fourth-generation cities, large-scale infrastructure improvements, and enhancing residents' quality of life, elevating Egypt as a significant Middle Eastern destination for sustainable living and tourism.

Awad noted that Egypt's approach to urban development prioritizes transparency, efficient local governance, and integrating women and youth into decision-making. The government is determined to turn urban challenges into opportunities through collaborative efforts that address gender equality, youth empowerment, and community participation.

Participants at WUF12 are expected to discuss and draft practical strategies that guide sustainable urban development and foster collaboration between local and international bodies. The insights gained will contribute to the final WUF12 declaration aimed at fostering urban resilience and sustainability.

By hosting this influential forum, Egypt reinforces its reputation as a leader in sustainable urban growth and as a key contributor to the global dialogue on future cities.