Accra, Oct. 7, GNA - The UN-HABITAT has published a 306-page Global Report on Human Settlements for sustainable development of cities around the world.

The 2009 report titled "Planning Sustainable Cities: Policy Directions," assesses the effectiveness of urban planning as a tool for dealing with the unprecedented challenges facing the 21st Century and to enhance sustainable urbanisation.

Mr Joseph Yieleh Chireh, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development (MLRD), launched the report in Accra on Monday as part of activities marking this year's World Habitat Day celebration. The United Nations has designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of towns, cities and the basic rights of mankind to adequate shelter. This year's celebration under the theme "Planning Our Urban Future," is being celebrated in Ghana under the theme "Prevention of Slums and Slum Upgrading."

Mr Yieleh Chireh said the report indicated that urban planning systems in many countries had changed very little and are often a contributory factor to urban problems in the world. "The important conclusions of the report are relevant for urban planners, policy makers, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives of Assemblies, NGOs and journalists in urban development to keep abreast with the sustainable development of cities," he said. Mr Albert Abongo, Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing, said the sector had instituted social and physical infrastructure at Adzen Kotoku, a suburb of Accra, to facilitate the relocation of commercial activities as part of the decongestion exercise of the Central Business District of Accra, particularly at Old Fadama. "I assure you that government will handle any relocation activity with the professionalism it deserves in order not to bring untold hardship on any person or group of persons," he said.

Mr Daouda Toure, UNDP Resident Coordinator, pledged the support of his organisation to Ghana in her commitment towards improving the living standards of the urban poor. Dr Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, Accra Metropolitan Chief Executive, announced that a Street Naming Committee would be inaugurated soon to implement a project for easy location and identification. He said AMA would embark on modern signage and outdoor advertising programmes next year to enhance the beautification of the city. On the Waste to Energy Programme, Dr Vanderpuije said the Assembly was collaborating with refuse collection contractors to improve on waste management.

He expressed concern about the deplorable state of some schools in Accra and the shift system for about 70,000 pupils. "The Assembly is reviewing a proposal to modernise our school infrastructure to provide adequate facilities and stop the shift system soon," he said.

Dr Vanderpuije announced that the assembly had decided to implement an automated revenue collection system early next year. "I urge and encourage the business community, landlords, and all and sundry to pay their rates to the assembly to enable it meet its obligations," he said.