- States adopt AUF Declaration
ADDIS ABABA – As urbanization becomes the most powerful megatrends, shaping African development in the 21st century, member states of the Africa Urban Forum adopted a binding African Cities Forum (ACF) Declaration to attain AU’s Agenda 2063.
Organized by the African Union and Ethiopia,the momentous forum that held between 4 and 6 September 2024 under the theme “Sustainable Urbanization for Africa’s Transformation” with the participation of 2,000 attendees, was successfully concluded by adopting the ACF declaration that embraces shared goals and political commitments,believed to be helpful to oversee integrated urban resilience.
Following the conclusion of the grand inaugural forum, Urbanization and Infrastructure Minister Chaltu Sani underscored that the forum marked a significant milestone for Africans’ collective journey towards transforming the continental urban landscapes.
“We have entertained meaningful discussions, shared valuable insights and forged crucial partnerships. It has also reflected a broader commitment to Pan-African solidarity,” she said.
Apart from promoting the country’s conference tourism, Chaltu noted that the forum brought the opportunity to explore the intricate dynamics of urbanization and identified innovative solutions that guide the continent’s thriving future.
Moreover, she added that it is a commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban development, ensuring that the cities are not only centers of economic growth but also beacons of social equity and environmental stewardships. Chaltu has also indicated that the upcoming World Urban Forum, which is set to be held in Cairo with over 20,000 participants, will help Africans to raise their voices in unison.
“The declaration, which incorporates inclusive development issues, political documents and pan-Africanism commitment, highlights the immense potential and promises that urbanization holds for our continent,” she remarked.
Addis Ababa Deputy Mayor Jantirar Abay also stressed on meaningful discussions, active engagement, and experience sharing themes with country leaders, coupled with their firm commitment to implement this declaration which is a dedication to shaping “the Africa we want”.
According to him, urbanization grips huge potential to drive social mobility, economic growth, and sustainable development across Africa. However, realizing this potential requires strong collaborative action and unwavering enthusiasm to meet the common goal.
This declaration is also a launching pad not only for urban Africa but also for the entire continent. Besides, it bridges the interconnection between urban and rural areas aligning with the progress of cities linked to the well-being of rural communities.
Stating the potential challenges such as housing shortages, infrastructure deficits, environmental degradation, economic inequalities, Jantirar emphasized the need to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth and development through collective efforts.
According to African cities report, Africa’s cities gained 642 million new residents since 1950 and the report unveils that about 814 million additional people are expected to join the continent.
“African urbanization, which is serving as a shining example in the continent, is critical to achieving inclusive growth and the Sustainable Development Goals and a pathway to social mobility, economic prosperity and sustainable development,” the panelists expressed.
Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development of Uganda, Chair of the Sub-Committee, Urban Development, STC8 Judith Nabakooba emphasized the need to mobilize resources and expertise for sustainable urban development, developing and implementing an inclusive housing policies guided by the African Union Model Law on housing and urban development.
She has also advocated for the establishment of national urban committees, promoting fiscal decentralization for reshaping Africa’s urbanization.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
The Ethiopian Herald September 8/2024
