African local and regional governments want the continent to turn its back on ecologically irresponsible and socially unjust behaviour in favour of a concept that respects the balance of nature, Dakar’s new mayor told the eighth Africities summit which began in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh on Tuesday, 20 November 2018.
Mayor Soham Wardini, who is the President of the Africities Political Committee, reaffirmed the commitment of her African counterparts to achieving the unity and integration of the continent “from its territories and with respect for its diversity.”
The APC chair added: “We are determined to work towards the emergence of an Africa reconciled with its humanity, drawing on its immense cultural reservoir to rebuild societies that respect the rights of all, as well as the rights of future generations.”
Wardini went on to stress the need for deep reflection, especially for locally and regionally elected officials who grapple with ecological emergencies on a daily basis.
“Similarly, we must take the time to exchange ideas in order to keep up with the issues and challenges, many of which are common to African cities,” she suggested.
To this end, she advocated for solutions from the community of African local authorities, since in her opinion, the antidotes to Africa’s problems must be home-grown.
Opened on Tuesday morning, the eighth Africities Summit will last until 24 November 2018, during which it looks to address various issues, including urbanization, demographic, ecological, democratic, political, economic, social, cultural and communicational transitions.
– APA
