Somalia Urges Greater UN-Habitat Support for Post-Conflict Urban Development

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NAIROBI: Somalia has urged the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) to intensify its engagement in fragile and post-conflict urban areas, emphasizing the need for greater technical assistance to manage rapid urbanization and resettle displaced communities.

Speaking at the first 2025 session of the UN-Habitat Executive Board in Nairobi, Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, called for increased support to ensure cities can cope with ongoing crises and long-term urban development challenges.

“The pressure on Somalia’s urban centers is immense. We need sustainable solutions that provide housing, infrastructure, and essential services for our growing population,” Abdulle said.

Somalia stressed that capacity-building for local governments must be prioritized to enable municipal authorities to manage urban expansion effectively.

Additionally, the country backed calls for predictable core funding for UN-Habitat, stating that financial stability is critical for implementing long-term development initiatives in fragile states.

As Somalia continues rebuilding efforts following decades of conflict, officials say strengthened cooperation with UN-Habitat will be essential in creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities that meet the needs of both residents and displaced populations.