The National Forum on Buildings and Climate Change brought together key stakeholders to address the urgent need for sustainable urban development in the face of climate change. The event, held under the auspices of the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development, was graced by Hon. Alice Wahome, EGH, the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry, alongside H.E. Joel Arumonyang, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Works. The forum served as a platform for vibrant discussions on policy, financing, and practical implementations necessary to drive sector circularity and sustainability.

Dr. Jackson Koimbori, the Senior Circular Economy and Climate Change Coordinator representing the private sector, made a presentation on 'Global Best Practices & Local Opportunities, Policy & Financing Alignments to Achieving Sector Circularity,' where he provided critical insights into how global models of the circular economy can be adapted to local contexts. He emphasized the importance of integrating circular economy principles into the construction sector to reduce waste, enhance resource efficiency, and promote sustainable building practices. Dr. Koimbori showcased several international case studies, illustrating successful implementations of circular economy frameworks that have significantly reduced the carbon footprint of urban developments.

The forum underscored the necessity of aligning local policies and financing mechanisms to support these sustainable practices. Dr. Koimbori highlighted the role of the government in setting regulatory frameworks that incentivize the adoption of circular economy principles. He also discussed the potential for public-private partnerships to mobilize the necessary financial resources. By aligning policy and financial incentives, Dr. Koimbori argued, stakeholders could create an enabling environment that fosters innovation and sustainable growth within the building sector.

Hon. Alice Wahome, in her keynote speech, reaffirmed the government's commitment to fostering sustainable urban development. She outlined various government initiatives aimed at promoting green building practices and improving urban resilience against climate change. The collaborative spirit of the forum and the shared vision for a sustainable future marked a significant step towards integrating circular economy principles into the national agenda for urban development. As the discussions concluded, the consensus was clear: achieving sector circularity is not just an option but a necessity for a sustainable and resilient urban future.