Egypt Commits to Enhancing Women's Role in Urban Planning Initiatives

Photo : Egypt Media Office

Sherif El-Sherbini, Egypt's Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, officially inaugurated the 12th edition of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), a significant gathering that addresses pressing issues related to housing, sustainable development, and the technological evolution of urban spaces. This year's forum emphasizes "human-centric" urban progress, highlighting the need for cities to prioritize the well-being of their inhabitants.

During his opening remarks, Minister El-Sherbini extended a warm welcome to Maimunah Mohd Sharif, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat), alongside other distinguished participants. He underscored the significance of the forum's collective sessions, each tackling themes crucial for citizen welfare and economic development, which are integral to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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A focal point of El-Sherbini's address was the establishment of a dedicated council for women's issues, aimed at promoting gender equality and empowerment. He outlined the council's mission to identify and address barriers that hinder women's progress and to develop actionable recommendations that can be implemented at the local level. The Minister emphasized that access to education, professional training, digital skills, and adequate housing is essential for empowering women and facilitating their active participation in society.

In addition to women's issues, the forum will also focus on children and youth, examining their roles in sustainable urban development. El-Sherbini pointed out that insights from recent global summits would inform discussions on child welfare and the necessity of aligning youth interests with sustainable initiatives. The objective is to propose actionable policies that harness the energy and creativity of young people to address urban challenges and engage them in public policy-making.

El-Sherbini reiterated Egypt's commitment to integrating these critical issues into its urban planning policies. The Ministry of Housing, in collaboration with other government entities and NGOs, is dedicated to creating new urban developments that enhance the quality of life for citizens. These urban designs are envisioned to promote livability, support work and education, and attract residents, investments, and job opportunities.

The Minister highlighted the importance of WUF12 as an international platform that convenes politicians, academics, researchers, NGOs, and local leaders. He expressed optimism for fruitful discussions that would yield comprehensive recommendations to be included in the forum's final declaration, ultimately supporting the needs of society as a whole.

In closing, El-Sherbini expressed his hopes for beneficial exchanges and tangible outcomes from the forum, aiming to foster sustainable urban solutions that cater to all segments of society. The World Urban Forum serves as a vital space for collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges and opportunities that cities face today.