Egypt beefs up preparations as WUF12 approaches

Egyptian Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, Sherif Sherbiny convened a meeting on Thursday with ministry officials to discuss preparations for hosting the 12th Global Urban Forum (WUF12).

Egypt is hosting WUF12, in partnership with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), from 4 to 8 November 2024, returning to the African continent after more than 20 years after its inception in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2002.

Minister Sherbiny emphasised the importance of maximising Egypt’s benefits as host, including showcasing the nation’s progress in urban development under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi‘s leadership.

To ensure a successful event, the minister called officials to invite real estate developers, contractors, and consultants to participate and present their projects. He also asked for the formation of a technical committee to prepare content and select speakers for the forum’s sessions.

In addition to the main forum, Egypt will host a ministerial meeting for African Housing Ministers and a week-long event highlighting the country’s urban development accomplishments. The goal is to promote knowledge sharing and collaboration among African nations.

Minister Sherbiny highlighted that Egypt will be the first African country to host the WUF12 since the inaugural session in Nairobi, Kenya, and the second Arab country after Abu Dhabi hosted the tenth session. The forum is the premier global platform on the international agenda that addresses all aspects, sectors, and fields of sustainable urban development. By hosting WUF12, Egypt is not only contributing to the international dialogue on urban issues but also enhancing its reputation as a cultural and urban hub on a global scale.