WUF12 opens in cairo: a bold call for local solutions to global urban challenges
Against the backdrop of Egypt’s vibrant capital, the World Urban Forum’s twelfth session (WUF12) opened its doors to an unprecedented 37,000 participants from 182 countries, setting a new record as the largest gathering in the Forum’s history. This momentous event is more than a milestone—it is a rallying cry for local action to confront the mounting challenges of urbanization in an era of climate crisis, rising inequalities, and economic volatility.
Under the theme “It All Starts at Home: Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities,” the Forum shines a spotlight on the transformative power of community-led solutions. From affordable housing to climate adaptation and equitable public services, WUF12 champions the idea that global change begins in the neighborhoods we call home.
A Grand Opening of Global Significance
The opening ceremony unfolded with a sense of urgency and hope. UN-Habitat Executive Director Anáclaudia Rossbach and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stood together, calling on participants to not only absorb insights but to return to their cities as agents of transformation. Their words set the tone for a five-day event filled with dynamic dialogue, cross-sector collaboration, and innovative solutions.
Rossbach framed the week as a chance to reimagine urban development: “The future of sustainable cities starts where we live, work, and grow. Let’s take this opportunity to build communities that thrive on inclusion, resilience, and sustainability.”
Spotlighting Diverse Voices to Shape Change
In the days leading up to the official opening, five assemblies amplified the voices of key stakeholders: grassroots leaders, women, children and youth, local and regional governments, and the private sector.
At the Women’s Assembly, Kalpana Viswanath, CEO of Safetipin, reminded attendees that “home is where resilience starts.” She described safe, inclusive homes as the foundation for equitable communities, a vision resonating throughout the Forum.
Speaking for the Grassroots Assembly, Ann Wanjiru Mbuthia, Coordinator of Mathare Legal Aid, passionately called for prioritizing housing security. “Housing is more than just a roof,” she declared. “It’s the heart of basic services, livelihoods, and climate adaptation.” Her words underscored the profound role of grassroots women as first responders and agents of community resilience.
The Business and Foundations Assembly echoed this focus on partnership. Nasra Nanda, CEO of the Kenya Green Building Society, urged the private sector to invest in sustainable solutions. “Cities thrive when businesses join forces with governments to create long-term, impactful change,” she said.
Record-Breaking Participation and a Commitment to Inclusivity
With participants hailing from every corner of the globe, WUF12 embodies the spirit of global cooperation. Nearly three-quarters of attendees came from Africa, reflecting the continent’s pivotal role in shaping the future of urbanization.
Diversity extended beyond geography: government representatives made up 16% of participants, academia 21%, and private-sector leaders 12.8%, alongside robust delegations from civil society and international organizations. This year’s Forum also reached a historic milestone in gender parity, with 206 women and 201 men among the speakers leading WUF12’s main sessions.
Rossbach celebrated this achievement, noting, “The World Urban Forum has become a coalition for change, bringing together a tapestry of voices to address shared challenges.”
Exploring Solutions at the Heart of the Forum
Central to WUF12 is the Urban Expo, a vibrant showcase of over 140 exhibitors offering innovative solutions for housing, clean energy, public spaces, and more. Designed in the shape of a heart, the UN-Habitat Arena embodies the Forum’s central theme: home as the starting point for transformation.
UN-Habitat Executive Director Rossbach toured the Expo alongside Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and other key officials, marveling at the creativity and ambition on display. Together, they witnessed how sustainable urbanization can come alive through design, technology, and collaboration.
Setting the Stage for Action
As WUF12 kicks into high gear, participants will engage in 37 main sessions and more than 700 partner-led events. The first of the WUF Dialogues, titled “Housing Our Future,” will address the urgent need to improve housing access for billions worldwide. Meanwhile, “Cities and the Climate Crisis” will explore how local actions can secure resilient, environmentally just cities.
This week is not just about talk; it is about charting a bold course for action. The insights shared and connections forged in Cairo will ripple outward, shaping policies and practices that redefine urban futures.
A Call to Reimagine Urban Living
As the sun sets over Cairo, WUF12 stands as a testament to the power of local solutions in addressing global challenges. From grassroots leaders to corporate executives, every voice at this Forum has a role in building cities where everyone can thrive. Because, as the theme of this historic gathering reminds us, it all starts at home.
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