World Urban Forum 2006

The World Urban Forum is a biennial gathering that looks at urban issues facing the world today. Some of the issues that will be focused on include: rapid urbanisation and its impact on communities, cities, economies and policies. One of the main reasons for the event is that "in the next fifty years, two-thirds of humanity will be living in towns and cities. A major challenge is to minimize burgeoning poverty in cities, improve the urban poor's access to basic facilities such as shelter, clean water and sanitation and achieve environment-friendly, sustainable urban growth and development."

It is well attended and is expected to attract even more people in it's third edition this year in Vancouver. It brings in students, academics, ngo workers as well as governments officials and a host of others involved in policy and programs focused on urban issues. With it taking place in my own backyard this year I am needless to say extremely excited.