Mayor Adanech underscores importance of urban management for inclusive development

Addis Ababa, September 5, 2024 (FBC) – Mayor of Addis Ababa, Adanech Abiebie, has underscored the critical role that effective urban management plays in fostering inclusive development. Speaking at an event titled “Mayoral Legacy Goals and Urban Transformations,” the mayor joined mayors, experts, and international delegates from across Africa to discuss urban development strategies and share best practices.

During the forum, Mayor Adanech highlighted pressing challenges facing African cities, such as poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and housing shortages. She argued that strategic urban management is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and enhancing living conditions in urban areas. “Through effective city management, we can transform inclusive development from a goal into a tangible reality,” she stated, as reported by ENA.

She identified several key focus areas for mayors, including the need to rehabilitate underserved neighborhoods, expand infrastructure and services, and address the housing crisis. In her remarks, she noted that Addis Ababa has made significant strides in early childhood care programs, infrastructure improvements, creating job opportunities for youth, and enhancing transport services.

The mayor emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange between African cities to adapt to emerging challenges and promote sustainable development.

Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to fortifying partnerships with African nations. She highlighted the ongoing collaborative efforts and expressed a strong desire to elevate these partnerships, with the aim of enhancing support in various aspects of urban development.