Addis Ababa: Mayor of Addis Ababa City Adanech Abiebie emphasized the transformative potential of effective urban management for achieving inclusive development.

An event themed ‘Mayoral Legacy Goals and Urban Transformations,’ brought together mayors, experts, and international representatives from cities across Africa today.

During the forum, participants shared their experiences and strategies for urban development.

Mayor Adanech Abiebie highlighted the urgent need to address the challenges facing African cities, including poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and housing shortages.

She stressed that proper management could pave the way for breaking the cycle of poverty and improving urban living conditions.

‘By effectively managing our cities, we can turn inclusive development into reality,’ Adanech stated.

She outlined key areas of focus for mayors, including rehabilitating deprived areas, expanding services and infrastructure, and tackling the housing shortages.

Accordingly, Addis Ababa has been su
ccessful in the early childhood care program, she said, noting activities undertaken have benefited the residents through the provision of infrastructure, including the creation of job opportunities for the youth and transport services.

She underlined the need for continued collaboration and experience sharing among cities of Africa to adapt to evolving challenges and ensure sustainable development.

Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), Anacláudia Rossbach, reiterated her organization’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with African countries.

She highlighted ongoing cooperation and expressed a desire to elevate this collaboration to new levels, aiming to enhance support in various areas of urban development.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency