BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE – In celebration and commemoration of the World Habitat Day the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has said the month of October gives all partners a chance to create a sustainable future for Eswatini.
Speaking during the commemoration of World Habitat Day today, which marks the beginning of Urban October, Principal Secretary Dr Simon Zwane said the month gives an opportunity to stakeholders to participate in activities, events, and discussions which support the creation of a sustainable future.
The Ministry further implored all development partners, local authorities and utility agencies to work together to realise the goal of developing resilient urban economies and other SDGs to which the Kingdom is affiliated to.
“ The Ministry is committed to improving and managing the country’s urbanisation through the development and implementation of policies that promote sustainable development,” said Zwane.
In addition to that he said the Government is particularly committed to working towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: making human settlements and cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
In 1985 the United Nations designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day. The idea is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities and the basic right of all to adequate shelter.
Every year, World Habitat Day is celebrated in a host city, where members of the United Nations give speeches and presentations, reflecting on and highlighting the issues faced by people across the world. There is usually a particular focus on urban areas and the homeless. The Habitat Scroll of Honour is also awarded.
