As the UN-Habitat meeting of the Executive Board commenced at the headquarters of the UN in Gigiri Nairobi, the main agenda is seeking a way to increase the mobilization of resources. The Executive Board, composed of 36 member states is involved and contributes resources to push further the UN Habitat agenda.

The Board is providing oversight of the organization as they seek to attain better habitats for both the people and wildlife. Kenya Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development Zachariah Njeru has urged United Nations member states to contribute more resources to support UN-Habitat.

CS Zachariah urging the member states to take up the mantle and wholeheartedly commit to paying regular annual voluntary contributions to UN-Habitat as Kenya has delved into the process. A commitment and participation that is set to ensure there’s continuity as well as effectivity in the work of UN-Habitat.

“I note with concern that the voluntary contributions from member states remain low. I wish to urge Member States to honor their commitments by providing the much needed financial support, especially in non-earmarked contributions, which are vital for the normative work of the agency,” Said CS Njeru.

UN-Habitat’s Executive Director Maimunah Mohamed Sharif was lauded for her efforts in fund-raising noting that for the first time in 12 years, UN-Habitat has realized a surplus of USD 5.5 million in the non-earmarked foundation funds and also managed to repay some funds to the pending loan.

Further, CS Njeru advised on the need to the introduction of innovative ways of resource mobilization and enhance the capacity of her team to continue leveraging on the political goodwill of Member States and donors to ensure sustainability in the management of the finances of UN-Habitat.

According to the Executive Director of UN in Nairobi Maimunah Sharif, thanks are in order for the member states to consider their stance in support of the UN-Habitat entirely as it keeps soaring. To attain the UN-Habitat vision, it’s going to be for everyone’s support and involvement.

“In 2023, as we all work towards a successful second United Nations Habitat Assembly, it is my hope that we can keep the Nairobi spirit of collaboration and partnership,” she said.