Nairobi: UN-Habitat has formalised two pivotal international partnerships to bolster global collaboration on social and affordable housing.
According to Kenya News Agency, these partnerships have been solidified through letters of intent focusing on the establishment of a Social Housing Hub aimed at connecting cities across continents and promoting innovative housing solutions.
The first letter of intent has resulted in the co-hosting of a Social Housing Hub by the cities of Paris and Nairobi. This initiative brings together UN-Habitat, the City of Paris, and Nairobi City County to foster inclusive, community-driven housing solutions, including the transformation of informal settlements. The second agreement, between UN-Habitat and the Government of France, will see the Hub hosted in France to support global collaboration and knowledge sharing on inclusive housing systems.
During the signing event at the United Nations Habitat Assembly in Nairobi, UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacl¡udia Rossbach emphasized that these initiatives respond to the call from 193 countries for UN-Habitat to advance efforts on adequate housing. She highlighted that nearly 3 billion people currently face housing inadequacy, and these partnerships are vital for ensuring everyone can live with dignity. Rossbach stated that by linking cities and communities globally, these coalitions strengthen the momentum toward achieving the New Urban Agenda and the right to housing.
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Arthur Johnson underscored the significance of the collaboration with Paris and UN-Habitat, citing the tangible results achieved in Nairobi in transforming informal settlements. He stressed that access to dignified, affordable housing is fundamental to daily life, social justice, and opportunity. By sharing Nairobi's experiences and learning from other cities, the commitment to making decent housing a reality is reinforced.
Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo remarked on the power of collective action, noting that cities are at the forefront of addressing housing challenges. She emphasized that housing is about providing dignified living conditions and fostering social cohesion. French Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships Thani Mohamed-Soilihi added that the social hub is a crucial step in promoting affordable and sustainable housing.
These initiatives align with the recently concluded United Nations Habitat Assembly's agenda, which prioritised accelerating action on adequate housing, fostering international partnerships, and advancing the New Urban Agenda through sustainable urban development.