Grapevine

WUF returns to Africa for first time since its inauguration 20 years ago

Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the UN-Habitat programme, announced the details of Egypt’s hosting of the 12th edition of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), at a press conference on Sunday at the government headquarters in the New Administrative Capital, in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

Rossbach expressed her sincere gratitude to the Government of Egypt for hosting the World Urban Forum and for its commitment to sustainable urban development.

She stated: “After years of attending the World Urban Forum as a participant, she is now honoured to lead this edition of the conference. She added that the WUF12 represents a new chapter, not only for her personally but for everyone working together to address the new challenges and opportunities facing cities and communities.

She continued, stating that this edition of the forum is expected to attract at least 20,000 participants, with over 13,000 already registered from 172 countries this year. She highlighted that the WUF12 is returning to the African continent after more than 20 years since the first forum was held in Nairobi in 2002.

Rossbach pointed out that Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing cities in the world, including Cairo, and the challenges and opportunities faced here reflect those seen globally.