A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on urban planning and sustainable development has been signed between the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development of the Republic of Kenya within the framework of the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13).
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the document was signed by Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture and national coordinator of WUF13, and Alice Wahome, Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development. The signing ceremony was also attended by Sultan Hajiyev, Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Kenya and Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Nairobi.
The memorandum is aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation in integrated urban and territorial planning, sustainable urbanization, architecture, housing policy, and modern urban development approaches. The document also provides for the exchange of experience in land use and urban planning, the promotion of "smart" and sustainable urban solutions, as well as collaboration within international initiatives and platforms.
During the visit, the Kenyan delegation also toured the Azerbaijan Pavilion at the WUF13 Urban Expo. The pavilion showcases Azerbaijan's modern approaches to sustainable urban development, including restoration projects carried out under the "Great Return" program in the liberated territories. These projects highlight "Smart City" and "Smart Village" solutions, alongside initiatives focused on the preservation of cultural heritage in the Garabagh region.
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations, serves as the premier global platform for discussing the challenges of rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, cities, economies, and climate change. Azerbaijan's participation and its growing partnerships with African nations like Kenya reflect its commitment to sharing expertise in post-conflict reconstruction and sustainable urban growth.
