WUF13: Young Voices Demand Sustainable Futures for Global South Cities
Dr. Amina Sacko, a pioneering Gabonese researcher, has taken center stage at the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, calling for a significant shift in urban planning: youth-led development in the Global South. Her keynote address emphasized the pressing need for inclusive, sustainable cities that reflect the aspirations of young people, particularly in nations still grappling with the lasting impacts of colonialism.
The cities of the Global South are facing unprecedented growth and development challenges. Rapid urbanization has led to inadequate infrastructure, social inequality, and environmental degradation. Dr. Sacko insists that this crisis can only be addressed by empowering young people to take the reins in shaping their cities’ futures. She points out that youth are not only the largest demographic in the Global South but also possess a unique understanding of the region’s cultural, social, and economic contexts.
Dr. Sacko’s call to action is not just a moral imperative but also a pragmatic one. Young people living in these cities have the skills, creativity, and energy to drive innovative solutions to the complex problems they face. By involving them in the decision-making process, cities can harness their potential to create more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities.
A Path Forward
Dr. Sacko’s advocacy is gaining traction among urban planners, policymakers, and young leaders worldwide. Her message is a reminder that the future of cities in the Global South will be shaped by the collective efforts of all stakeholders, but particularly the youth. As the Global South cities embark on their path to sustainable development, the participation of young people will be crucial in ensuring that these cities become inclusive, vibrant, and resilient spaces where everyone thrives.
