By Mohamed Mousa and Sawsan Abdel Baset
Despite the challenges of the corona virus, there is a feeling of reassurance while we are on Egyptian soil. This statement by Jean-Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary-General of the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLGA) came in his speech to the 25th session of the ULGA executive council.
Mbassi hailed Egyptian government support for the organisation, saying that Egypt is the heart of Africa.
“Under Egyptian sponsorship, this session of the UCLGA will serve the interests of African peoples,” Mbassi said, adding that the UCLGA has a firm bond with Egypt, and that development must start at local level. Cairo Governor Khaled Abdel Aal told the session that Egypt has been strengthening its institutional relationship with
African organisations.
“It has been an honour to host the headquarters of the Continental Organisation for the North Region (NARO) for opportunities to boost relations and partnerships, and open up new horizons,” the governor said.
“The New Administrative Capital restores the historical splendour of the city of Cairo and lightens the burden on its amenities,” the governor added. “Cairo is now transforming its slum areas into suitable housing and cultural centres,” he said.
“In the last two years, Egypt has had the difficult experience in confronting the corona pandemic without stopping economic activity,” he noted.
He called for a conference to exchange experiences and expertise among African cities to join with Minister of Local Development Mahmoud Shaarawy in his proposal for a second session of the African Cities Conference as an incentive for sustainable development.
For his part, Shaarawy said Egypt is keen to boost ties with the organisation in view of growing interest in the African continent since 2014 in response to directives from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in this regard.
Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli, personally welcomes the submission of Egypt’s file to host the African Cities Conference (Africa City) 2024 in addition to Egypt’s wish to host the World Urban Conference 2024 for the first time in an African city.
