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The specialized training course in urban planning and development recently concluded after 12 days of intensive learning. It saw participation from 20 trainees representing local authorities in the Marib governorate, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
This course emphasized urban governance and its critical role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Yemen. Participants engaged with the latest training tools, incorporating interactive activities and exercises designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical realities of urban planning in Yemen.
These activities significantly enhanced the participants’ understanding of the importance of effective governance in managing urban environments and fostering sustainable development. As urbanization continues to escalate globally, effective governance becomes increasingly vital for Sustainable Urban Development and the localization of the SDGs. With nearly 70% of the world’s population projected to live in cities by 2050, the need for robust governance frameworks is more essential than ever.
The course emphasized the application of learned concepts within local contexts, equipping participants to tackle current challenges in urban planning. It is a significant milestone in strengthening local capacities in urban planning and showcases the dedication of funding agencies, organizations, and local authorities to promote sustainable development in Yemen.
This training stands out as a key activity of the urban planning and development component of the project. It specifically aims to enhance the resilience of cities in the target governorates by empowering local authorities to take actions that align with Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which focuses on “sustainable cities and communities.”
The primary goal of this component is to elevate the competencies of local authorities in urban planning and management, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of Yemeni cities and improving the social and economic well-being of citizens.
At the conclusion of the training course, participants conveyed their gratitude for the knowledge and skills they gained, emphasizing the significance of applying these concepts within their local communities. The discussions also brought to light the challenges confronting urban planning in Yemen and underscored the necessity for collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve meaningful outcomes.
With the completion of this intensive training course, the Urban Planning & Management Team (UPMTs) in the governorate will have received comprehensive training in the fields of urban planning and development. The team will be qualified to participate in conducting assessments of urban centers in the governorate, as well as performing a SWOT analysis. Additionally, the team will be responsible for preparing and developing an urban resilience strategy for the targeted districts in Marib Governorate, along with identifying and articulating the urgent priorities for urban development projects.
This course is part of the ongoing efforts of the SIERY project, which aims to bolster institutional and economic resilience in Yemen. Funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in partnership with the Ghadaq for Development Organization (#GHFD), the project seeks to enhance the economic and social well-being of Yemeni citizens, particularly the most vulnerable and impoverished groups.
Given the prolonged economic and social crises in Yemen, the SIERY project holds great strategic importance. It aligns with the goals of the UNDP to support local governments in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by strengthening the institutional and administrative capacities of local authorities. This empowerment enables effective urban planning and management. The success of this initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for Yemeni citizens and enhance their resilience against ongoing economic and social challenges.