Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 03, 2022 (SKNIS): St. Kitts and Nevis joined the international community on Monday, October 03, 2022, to observe World Habitat Day (WHD) under the global theme “Mind the Gap. Leave No One and Place Behind.”
According to www.un.org, World Habitat Day 2022, seeks to draw attention to the growing inequalities and vulnerabilities that have been exacerbated by the triple ‘C’ crises – COVID-19, climate and conflict.
Minister with responsibility for the Urban Development Unit within the Ministry of Sustainable Development, the Honourable Senator Dr. Joyelle Clarke in her remarks to commemorate the day reflected on the triple ‘C’ crises.
“The pandemic and recent conflicts have reversed years of progress made in the fight against poverty. Therefore, tackling urban poverty and inequality has become an urgent priority. Governments play a front-line role in responding to crises and emergencies as well as in planning for an inclusive, resilient, and green future,” said Dr. Clarke. “To prepare urban areas for future catastrophes, we need to start with our cities. Thus, action and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals are more important than ever.”
Dr. Clarke said that the onus is on the government to create more sustainable development areas for citizens and residents.
“The future of our country depends on our government and organizations, communities, academic institutions, the private sector and all relevant stakeholders working together to create sustainable and inclusive urban areas,” said Dr. Clarke. “Urban areas are now home to slightly more than half of the world’s seven billion people. This is no different to our local situation, where our urban areas: Basseterre, Sandy Point, Cayon and Charlestown account for over half of our population.”
Minister Clarke noted that the government is “serious with its assurance of implementing the programmes of the Urban Development Unit, with technical and financial support, private sector partnerships and assistance from the international community.”
World Habitat Day is observed annually on the first Monday in October.