By Amie Choi
A delegation from The Gambia’s Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs recently attended the second session of the United Nations Habitat Assembly (UNHA2) at the UN Complex in Gigiri, Nairobi, Kenya.
The two-day high-level session that began on May 29, 2025, convened representatives from all 193 UN Member States, as well as stakeholders from civil society, the private sector, academia, and grassroots organisations.
As the highest global decision-making body on sustainable urbanisation and human settlements, the Assembly provides a platform for countries to discuss strategies and partnerships aimed at building inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable cities.
The Gambia’s participation comes at a time when the country continues to grapple with rapid urban growth, informal settlements, and the need for improved housing and land administration systems. Through its engagement, the delegation is contributing to key global conversations while gathering insights and partnerships that could help inform national urban development strategies.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Admin and Finance) at the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs Momodou Taal explained that the Assembly’s main goals include enhancing access to financing for housing, strengthening institutional capacity, and deepening international collaboration.
Over the two days, delegates had addressed resolutions focusing on upgrading informal settlements, promoting adequate housing, enhancing urban climate resilience, and integrating inclusive approaches into planning and policy.
During the Assembly, several global initiatives were launched, including the Building Climate Resilience of the Urban Poor (BCRUP) and the Sustainable Urban Resilience for the Next Generation (SURGe). Both initiatives aim to support African countries in addressing urban challenges through sustainable infrastructure and people-centered planning.
Also, the Assembly launched the “Building Smart Urban Resilience in Africa”, a regional programme supported by the African Union Commission and UNDP. The initiative is designed to assist African countries like The Gambia in developing smarter, greener, and more resilient urban spaces.
The Gambia’s participation reflects its commitment to the goals of the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in promoting sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). The delegation is expected to return with key insights that will help shape national policies on land governance, urban planning, and housing.
