Egypt to host 12th edition of World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Nov.
First time in 20 years that an African nation has hosted the event
Egypt is gearing up to welcome international delegates for the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) from November 4 to 8. The forum, organised by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, and the Ministry of Local Development, will focus on key global issues related to urbanisation and sustainable development.
The event will showcase Egypt’s advancements in urban growth, emphasising the nation’s role as a regional leader in comprehensive urban development. Participants will delve into Egypt’s significant achievements, including efforts in green transformation, slum elimination, and the flagship “Decent Life” initiative.
With approximately 500 scheduled activities, WUF12 aims to foster discussions among government officials, urban planners, civil society organisations, and private sector representatives. Key topics will include the global housing crisis and climate change, with a focus on forming coalitions to address these pressing issues.
This forum marks a significant milestone as it is the first time in 20 years that an African nation has hosted the event. Egypt’s commitment to urban development and peace is evident in its proactive adoption of the new urban agenda and various development initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for its citizens.
As the global multilateral system faces unprecedented challenges, WUF12 presents an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation and establish actionable plans for the future. The event aligns with the 2030 Agenda goals, providing a platform for discussions on housing accessibility, public safety, climate change impacts, and urban crises.
Participants can expect a comprehensive programme, including an urban exhibition and Cairo Urban Week, with all sessions available in UN official languages and sign language. The Egyptian government will spotlight its comprehensive development strategies, further highlighting the nation’s commitment to sustainable urban growth.