Second UN-Habitat Assembly kicks off

NAIROBI: The second United Nations Habitat Assembly, #UNHA2, kicks off by calling for sustainable urban development and effective multilateralism to establish cities that are more livable, sustainable, and resilient, particularly in the aftermath of crises.

The event was inaugurated by Kenya President, William Ruto, and will feature the First Lady of Kenya, Rachel Ruto, hosting the inaugural First Ladies Roundtable on the topic of women and their role in placemaking within cities on 6 June 2023.

With the participation of over 80 Ministers and Vice Ministers, the second session of the UN Habitat Assembly intends to gather nearly 5,000 delegates from around the world, representing member states and stakeholders.

This event in Nairobi, Kenya, running from 5 to 9 June 2023 is a joint effort between the government of Kenya and UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme.

UN-Habitat Executive Director Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif, expressed the need to change the narrative surrounding cities.

“The reality is that impact of extreme climate events, conflicts, natural disasters, global pandemics and the cost of living crisis are felt first and foremost in cities,” she said.

Maimunah also stressed on the importance of local action and inclusive multilateralism as vital components of global progress.

“The more well-planned and well-organised, the more people we can uplift from poverty,” she said in her speech.

The five-day program encompasses a high-level dialogue among heads of state, thematic debates, and discussions focused on universal access to affordable housing, urban climate action, urban crises recovery, localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and prosperity and local finance.

Additionally, more than 30 side events will showcase innovative approaches and transformative actions relating to the five key areas highlighted in the Executive Director's report, which centers around the special theme of the second United Nations Habitat Assembly.

The Urban Expo, a notable component of the assembly, will present exhibits from over 50 participants, showcasing urban projects, best practices, and cutting-edge solutions aimed at addressing the challenges of housing, transportation, energy, and climate change.

A particular highlight of the expo will be a display highlighting 45 years of sustainable urbanization in Kenya.

During the assembly, UN Member States will cast their votes on several resolutions that aim to guide regional, national, and local governments in securing a better urban future for all.

The proposed resolutions include the development of international guidelines on people-centered smart cities, the acceleration of the transformation of informal settlements and slums by 2030, recognition of World Clean-up Day, the promotion of biodiverse and resilient cities, the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals, and the provision of adequate housing for all.

The five-day session will conclude with a Ministerial Declaration, signifying the attainment of a collective agreement.