New York:UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for cities worldwide to invest in regeneration and adequate housing for all, emphasizing the importance of creating greener, more secure, and affordable urban environments.

According to Wam, Guterres made this appeal in a message to mark World Cities Day, highlighting that housing is foundational to tackling inequality and accelerating sustainable development. World Cities Day, observed annually on October 31, aims to promote global interest in urbanization and sustainable development.

Guterres pointed out the stark reality that over 3 billion people currently lack access to adequate housing, with 1.1 billion residing in informal settlements. He noted that cities, which house more than half of the global population, are grappling with challenges such as ageing neighborhoods, escalating costs, and increasing climate risks.

He proposed urban regeneration as a solution, suggesting that revitalizing urban areas could lead to increased housing, improved infrastructure, and enhanced public spaces, thereby making cities more resilient, inclusive, and interconnected. He emphasized the need for planning and partnership, urging national and local governments, financial institutions, the private sector, and communities to collaborate in building cities that cater to the needs of all residents, including vulnerable groups such as women, young people, older individuals, and persons with disabilities.