#100 Rethinking Urban Growth: A Local Perspectives Focus At WUF12, Cairo, Egypt

By Richard Kitheka Mbindyo

As Nairobi intensifies its efforts to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor as far as housing goes, local collaborative "whole-of-society" approaches are globally becoming pivotal in the journey towards a making SDG ideals a reality with only 6 years to go before the set Agenda 2030 deadline.

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In the Ongoing World Urban Forum WUF12 in Cairo, Egypt all eyes are set on 6 pivotal agenda geared at enabling cities to embrace cutting-edge solutions that not only advance sustainability but also enrich quality of life and stimulate economic prosperity.

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The 6 pressing issues are:

1.???? Affordable Housing and Rising Costs of Living: Exploring strategies for cost-effective housing solutions.        

2.???? Climate Change and Urban Resilience: Implementing local measures to adapt and build resilience to climate change.        

3.???? Stronger Together: Examining innovative models of collaboration that can enhance synergy across sectors and levels of governance. We are exploring how to build partnerships that use local ideas to tackle global problems and how to implement global agendas at the regional level worldwide.        

4.???? Financing Localization and Localizing Finance: Explore this field's critical challenges and opportunities and discuss strategies to leverage finance to accelerate SDG localization.        

5.???? Putting People First in the Digital Age: Localization of digital transformations through a people-centered approach is crucial to ensure that digital technologies leave no one and no place behind        

6.???? The Loss of Home: exploring how localization can enhance the impact of urban crisis response to protect livelihoods and promote sustainable cities.        

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The transition from WUF11 in Katowice to WUF12 in Cairo marks a significant shift in the global urban discourse, reflecting evolving priorities and challenges. The intensification of the climate crisis, now a localized and tangible threat, demands urgent and ambitious action from cities. WUF12's focus on "Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities" underscores the pivotal role of cities in mitigating climate change and building resilience.

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The WUF12 has so far spotlighted a range of innovative projects designed to revolutionize urban living systems.

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These initiatives are not merely isolated experiments; they are integral components of a broader initiative to reshape urban landscapes.

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In this update, we showcase five leading cities that are pioneering cleaner, greener, and more people-focused solutions.

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The concept of leveraging large-scale events to catalyze urban development, often referred to as "legacy projects," is gaining prominence. Cities that host such events, like Paris with the 2024 Olympic Games, have the opportunity to utilize their newfound infrastructure and global spotlight to drive significant urban improvements, particularly in underserved areas.

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As African nations like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania prepare to host the 36th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027), they can draw valuable lessons from such experiences. By strategically planning and implementing infrastructure projects, these countries can not only enhance their sporting facilities but also create lasting benefits for their citizens, such as improved transportation, housing, and public spaces.

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?The concept of Smart Cities where there is integration of technology into urban planning is redefining city living. Riyadh’s Vision 2030 is a bold initiative to transform the city into a global hub of innovation, with smart city projects enhancing connectivity, optimizing energy use, and improving quality of life. The Diriyah Company giga-project is a prime example, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology to create a unique urban experience. Such are also key take-aways for Kenya as it positions itself as a modern day hub in the EA central African region.

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Adapting to New Consumer Trends and Working Patterns is also key. The rise of remote work, the growing importance of wellness, and changing consumer preferences are prompting cities to rethink their development strategies. The demand for flexible working spaces, the integration of wellness amenities into urban design, and the need for resilient and adaptable infrastructure are shaping the future of urban development.

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Cities are also responding to evolving travel, logistics, and tourism dynamics. The shift towards sustainable transport, the rise of e-commerce, and the increasing importance of experiential travel are influencing how cities plan and develop urban spaces. Projects like London’s Crossrail, Elizabeth Line and Oslo’s Fornebu Line are transforming urban mobility, making cities more accessible and connected.

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With the 2030 Global Sustainable Development Goals looming, WUF12's emphasis on immediate, localized action is both timely and crucial. As the world grapples with pressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and the digital divide, the adage "it all starts at home" resonates deeply.

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This notion extends beyond the city's physical infrastructure to encompass its cultural, social, and economic fabric. By fostering change at the grassroots level, WUF12 aims to inspire communities to leverage their unique strengths and values to create resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments. These localized efforts serve as the building blocks for a more sustainable future.

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