JIGJIGA – The Ministry of Urban Development and Housing announced that, the city forum is crucial to strengthen people to people ties living in harmony across the country, and promote the culture of shared value.
Briefing journalists yesterday, State Minister of Urban Development and Construction Kasahun Gofe said that organizing such kind of event is significant to promote the culture of tolerance among peoples and ensure sustainable peace and stability across the country.
The 8th Ethiopian City Forum will be held under the motto of “Synergy for the Prosperity of Ethiopian Cities” from February 16 – 21 in Somali region Jigjiga town. The forum is expected to be a forum of synergy, forgiveness, unity and tolerance for all Ethiopians, Kasahun noted.
Kasahun further stated that, there will be panel discussion regarding how to ensure sustainable peace and stability among the cities. And also discussions will be held regarding delivering service and ensuring good governance.
“Forums like this help to promoting the traditional assets and heritages of the people as well as strengthening the city to city relationships and share experiences and learn from each other.”
“The forum will be expected to be successful in bringing out and promoting all cultures in one, and creating opportunity for business and tourism ties among cities, Kasahun added.
The City forum is playing a significant role in speeding up urbanization, strengthening good governance, promoting greenery and environment friendly cities, among others. Before 2006, we have 970 cities and now today we have 2,032 cities have been registered as a city by fulfilling the required criteria across the country, Kasahun noted.
Kasahun noted that, organizing such program in timely manner would step up efforts in ensuring peace and stability as well as strengthening ties among cities.
“The forum will create golden opportunities for the cities in sharing experiences about their culture and technology transfer as well,” Kasahun highlighted.
The Ethiopian Herald February 23/2011
BY HAILE DEMEKE
