Zambia, through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has held a bilateral engagement with the Egyptian Government on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum, to explore areas of mutual partnership, collaboration and cooperation with regards to upgrading of unplanned settlements.
Representing Zambia, Minister of Local and Rural Development, Gary Nkombo, highlighted Zambia’s experience in decentralization through devolution, active citizens’ participation in local development and capacity building of Local Authorities, as areas of cooperation which Zambia was ready to share with the Egyptian Government.
Mr. Nkombo highlighted the challenge of rural -urban migration, stressing the impacts of human settlements and Government’s resolve to address the status quo.
“We prioritize participatory planning, ensuring that urban development reflects the aspirations and needs of our citizens, particularly marginalized groups,” said Mr. Nkombo.
And Egyptian Minister of Local Development, Dr. Manal Awad, reaffirmed that her Government was ready to cooperate and support Zambia in undertaking upgrading programmes for unplanned settlements.
Dr. Awad said this is because Egypt has successfully undertaken the upgrading projects focusing on housing projects aimed at improving living conditions in informal settlements.
This is contained in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today by Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Public Relations Officer, Chila Namaiko.
RCV News
