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Revitalizing Historic Urban Centers Balancing Preservation and Development

Mohamed Higazy

Facilitator

date November 5, 2024 | 13:00 - 14:30
place
Multipurpose room 02
organization
United Cities and Local Governments of Africa
country
Egypt
language
Arabic, English, Chinese
Reference: 
NE 02-01

Summary

This side event is hosted by Cairo Governorate and with participation from Giza and Luxor Governorates, Marrakesh City (Representing Morocco), Zhengzhou and Nanjing (Representing China). This event aims to shed light on the significance of preserving and revitalizing historic urban centers consistent with the imperative of sustainable development. Sharing practical solutions from around the world, It will also delve into the collaborative endeavors between the cities and heritage conservation organizations in the safeguarding of cultural heritage sites while fostering economic progress. Through showcasing successful examples of revitalization projects in each city, the session aims to underscore the multifaceted benefits—social, economic, and environmental—that such revitalization projects bring.
The session will be structured as follows:
- Opening remark
- Short keynote speeches
- Case study presentation
- Panel discussion and interactive session
- Synthesis and recommendations

Objectives

The session aims to inspire collaboration, foster knowledge exchange, and catalyze action towards the preservation and revitalization of historic urban sites and centers, by showcasing success stories and projects completed from the participating cities. The event seeks to inspire dialogue, collaboration, and action among diverse stakeholders, and to foster a deeper understanding of the role of central and local government in supporting cities in their efforts to preserve and revitalize historical and cultural heritage sites towards sustainable, and environmentally friendly urbanization. The session will highlight the following principles: 1) the importance of preserving cultural heritage in urban development strategies, 2) showcase successful examples of revitalization projects in Cairo, Marrakesh, Nanjing and other cities, demonstrating their positive impacts. 3) the importance of fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, including government entities, heritage conservation organizations, and urban development practitioners. 4) explore innovative approaches for financing historic urban center revitalization projects. 5) inspire other cities and regions to embark on similar initiatives, promoting the preservation of cultural heritage worldwide.

Partners

Organization
Country
United Cities and Local Governments of Africa
Egypt
United Cities and Local Governments of Africa
Morocco

Session panelists

Panelist
Role
Organization
Country
Mr. Manal Awad
Minister
Ministry of Local Development
Ms. Ibrahim Saber
Governor
Cairo Governorate
Mr. Jean Pierre Mbassi
Secretary General
UCLG-Africa
Mr. Chen Yong
Standing member of Nanjing CPC Municipal Committee
Nanjing City
Mr. Yasmine Fouad
Minister of Environment
Ministry of Environment