Ethiopia sees WUF13 as key platform for urban development cooperation

Ethiopia views the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) as a major opportunity to exchange experience in urban renewal and sustainable development, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Adem Mohammed Mahmoud, has said.

Mahmoud noted that Ethiopia will be represented at the forum by a high-level delegation that includes the mayors of 12 cities led by Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

“As Ethiopia is set to host COP32 in Addis Ababa, the country intends to study Azerbaijan’s experience in organizing COP29. To this end, 42 delegates from Ethiopia, headed by Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, will participate in the forum,” the ambassador said.

He added that Ethiopia plans to showcase its achievements in inclusive and affordable housing, urban transformation, and development practices that could benefit other developing nations.

According to Mahmoud, WUF13 will serve as a leading international platform bringing together heads of state, ministers, mayors, and global media representatives to address the most pressing issues linked to sustainable urbanization.

“The forum is focused on tackling the global housing crisis and highlights the urgent need for affordable and inclusive housing for all,” he said. “At a time marked by geopolitical crises, conflicts, and climate change, WUF13 seeks to deliver solutions that protect communities and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.”

The diplomat noted that one of the key expected outcomes of the forum would be the adoption of the “Baku Call to Action,” aimed at mobilizing political commitments and financial support for urban policy expansion and technology transfer.

Mahmoud also highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts to address housing shortages and infrastructure challenges through its Corridor Development Program.

“Over the next five to six years, the country plans to build 1.5 million housing units,” he said, adding that the initiative, which began in Addis Ababa, has expanded to 75 cities nationwide.

“The program aims to improve infrastructure, widen roads, and increase urban green spaces in order to make cities more livable and attractive for investment,” Mahmoud stated.

World Urban Forum 13 will take place in Baku from May 17 to 22. The forum is being organized jointly by Azerbaijan and United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT) to promote international cooperation in sustainable urban development, smart cities, and innovative urban solutions.

By Vafa Guliyeva