Private sector key in realization of urban agenda

The presidents of Kenya and South Sudan together with the Fiji and Yemeni premiers have underscored the importance of involving the private sector in realization of urban agenda, which calls for sustainable and inclusive cities for all.

Speaking at the first session of the UN-Habitat Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, the leaders committed to actively involve the private sector as a key partner.

Uhuru Kenyatta, the president of Kenya said governments alone may not be able to provide for the required housing units among other development goals.

The president said challenges of development across the globe calls for innovative and creative solutions including through public-private partnerships, which yield benefits for all.

"There is need for innovative ways like involvement of the private sector to realize urban agenda. The traditional approaches to the housing challenges have failed to keep pace with the increasing housing demand for the growing population," he said.

Uhuru said governments need to change how they provide services right from the supply of materials, the type of houses to be built, the new ways of financing to ways of making houses more affordable.

He said provision of affordable housing is the first step for any government to achieve its development goals.

Noting that the private sector is a bit conscious, Uhuru said there is need to create an enabling environment for them to thrive, by ensuring that right policies and frameworks are in place.