The Senior Human Settlements Officer for the UN-Habitat, Dr Mathias Spaliviero has paid a courtesy call on the Minister for the Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development, Mr Dan Kwaku Botwe.

The visit was to enable Dr Spaliviero to familiarize himself with the key partners in the implementation of the UN-Habitat’s programme in Ghana as a newly appointed Coordinator for West Africa and also deepen the discussion on development cooperation for a mutual interest.

“UN-Habitat remains ready to support Ghanaians and local authorities technically and operationally in implementing future reforms that have an urban bearing. We will continue to support local authorities and communities across Ghana through targeted urban interventions,” he said.

Mr Botwe recommended that urban issues were factored into crisis response and recovery work, adding “the need to continue to mobilize the international community to maintain its support and engagement to help Ghana is paramount.”

He explained the need to have advance notice on upcoming programmes under the UN-Habitat to help the Ministry to participate.

The Chief Director of the Ministry, Ms Marian W. A. Kpakpah, briefed the envoy on the activities of UH-Habitat countrywide, particularly its activities in the rural communities in Ghana.

Ms Kpakpah emphasized the importance of scaled-up support to reinforce the capacities of local institutions and authorities who have a front-line role in responding to the needs of the people.

She also urged national and local urban development stakeholders to place adequate and affordable housing at the centre of current and future recovery efforts.