Egypt is one of four cities selected by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and UN-Habitat to participate in the Sport for Sustainable Urban Development Initiative. This initiative marks a crucial advancement in the collaboration between the IOC and UN-Habitat, aiming to integrate sports and physical activities into urban settings to foster sustainable development.
As part of this initiative, Egypt will work alongside cities from Jordan, Brazil, and Ghana, as well as Brisbane, which was the first city to join in December 2023. Each participating city, including one in Egypt, will benefit from seed funding to upgrade sports infrastructure and promote inclusive sports participation programs. This funding will enhance accessibility to sports facilities, encouraging community engagement and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Moreover, Egypt will receive support through training for local organizations to implement projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). These efforts will not only boost urban regeneration through sports but also empower local communities by creating safe and inclusive spaces for physical activity. It is anticipated that around 25,000 people will gain access to these new opportunities, enhancing community well-being and social development.
With urban populations expected to rise from 55% to 70% by 2050, initiatives like these are vital for sustainable urban growth. For Egypt, this initiative represents an opportunity to leverage sports as a tool for urban improvement, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
This announcement falls under a five-year agreement between the IOC and UN-Habitat, initiated in July 2024. Additionally, Egypt will play host to a significant event, the World Urban Forum, in Cairo from November 4-8, where a technical resource package will be unveiled. This package will guide cities on melding sports into sustainable urban planning, further cementing Egypt’s role as a leader in this global endeavor.
The collaboration aligns with the IOC’s Olympic Agenda reforms and the UN’s 2030 International Development Agenda, recognizing sports as a key contributor to achieving the SDGs. The IOC’s Olympism365 strategy, through initiatives like this, underscores the potential of sports to contribute positively to society by promoting healthier, more active, and inclusive communities.
Through this initiative, Egypt not only strengthens its urban infrastructure and community engagement but also positions itself at the forefront of integrating sports into sustainable city development. This strategic involvement highlights the transformative power of sports to drive social change and sustainable progress.
