Uganda calls for broader youth housing finance support at WUF13

Uganda called for supporting and scaling youth innovation initiatives - from the municipal to the global level - through sustainable and predictable funding mechanisms, stated Jonathan Ricky from Uganda, representing the youth, at the joint closing dialogue of the Assemblies within the framework of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), Report informs.

According to him, housing and urban planning must be built on the principles of inclusivity and the concept of "15-minute cities."

"Housing must be connected to transportation, education, healthcare, employment, safe public spaces, and social services," Ricky emphasized.

He also noted that housing affordability should be supported through dedicated financial instruments for youth, including rental assistance programs, microlending, homeownership programs, and co-living arrangements.

Ricky stressed that the youth intend to move from discussions to practical action.

"We, young people, commit to moving from advocacy to action. We intend to continue innovating in our cities and strengthening youth initiatives and solutions," he stated.