KUWAIT: The United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) has launched the fourth edition of its tree-planting campaign in Kuwait. Head of the UN-Habitat in Kuwait and GCC Dr Ameera Al-Hasan said in a statement to KUNA that the campaign aims at highlighting the problem of growing inequality and challenges in cities and human settlements.

The campaign marks the World Habitat Day (WHD 2022) held under the theme "Mind the Gap. Leave No One and Place Behind", she said. She remarked that the World Habitat Day 2022 seeks to draw attention to the growing inequalities and vulnerabilities that have been exacerbated by the triple crises; COVID-19, climate and conflict. She added that cities and local governments play a front-line role in responding to crises and emergencies, as well as in planning for an inclusive, resilient and green future.

Al-Hasan noted that many activities, meetings and discussions have been held in Kuwait this month to look into how to draw attention to urban issues and sustainable development. In this regard, she cited the fourth edition of the tree-planting campaign: "Kuwait Plants", aiming at encouraging individuals and communities to plant trees and pay attention to environment and climate issues. For his part, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development Dr Khaled Mahdi said, also in a statement to KUNA, that cooperation between Kuwait and the UN in general and UN-Habitat in particular, is of paramount significance.

He added that these activities are an opportunity to demonstrate progress made by the State of Kuwait in the implementation of UN Development Goals, based on its 2035 vision. The United Nations designated the first Monday of October of every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of habitats, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. The Day is also intended to remind the world that everyone has the power and the responsibility to shape the future of cities and towns. - KUNA