From 4–8 November 2024, Cairo hosted the largest World Urban Forum (WUF), drawing thousands of participants from 182 countries. The forum brought together policymakers, urban planners, business leaders, students, civil society representatives, and innovators to discuss some of the most pressing challenges facing cities around the world. With a focus on sustainable urban development, the event underscored the urgent need for action on climate change, affordable housing, and inclusive growth, while also highlighting the transformative potential of local solutions.
The central theme of WUF 2024, “It all starts locally”, emphasized the importance of grassroots initiatives in addressing global urban challenges. As urbanization continues to accelerate worldwide, the forum stressed that the most effective solutions often begin at the local level, where communities, governments, and businesses can work together to drive meaningful change. The key message was clear: by improving conditions locally, we can raise living standards for everyone, everywhere.
The forum spotlighted the role of green technologies in housing, such as energy-efficient buildings, sustainable materials, and smart infrastructure. The concept of “homes as holistic spaces” was introduced, aiming to go beyond providing just shelter to offering environments that promote mental and physical well-being. Participants explored how sustainable housing could support healthier lifestyles, improve mental health, and encourage eco-friendly living practices.
Another significant focus of the forum was the role of green technologies in city planning. As climate change leads to more frequent and severe weather events, cities must adapt to become more resilient and environmentally sustainable. The forum highlighted examples from cities that have integrated sustainable building practices, such as green roofs, solar energy, water recycling systems, and eco-friendly transportation networks. These solutions not only address environmental concerns but also improve urban resilience in the face of extreme temperatures, flooding, and other climate-related challenges.
A key theme throughout the forum was the need for collaborative problem-solving. Global urban challenges require a cooperative approach, bringing together diverse stakeholders, including local governments, businesses, civil society, and international organizations. The forum explored how these groups can work together to drive innovation and implement sustainable solutions.
A major achievement of WUF 2024 was its commitment to gender parity. For the first time in the history of the forum, women and men were represented in almost equal numbers among the speakers and participants. The organizers highlighted these ongoing efforts to ensure that women play an active and equal role in shaping the cities of the future.
At the Urban Expo, a week-long showcase of global urban initiatives, organizers promoted a zero-waste lifestyle through a fashion show featuring designs made from recycled materials. The show was accompanied by music from a band that crafted their instruments from waste. Visitors to the Expo could explore a variety of creative exhibits, including sculptures, fashion items, and a life-size display made from recycled materials. The 2024 World Urban Forum set the stage for a new era of urban transformation, one in which every individual and community has a role to play in creating cities that are greener, more sustainable, and better equipped to face the challenges of the future. The forum inspired concrete steps toward building a more sustainable and inclusive world.
