13th World Urban Forum: Prominent Liberian Climate Activist Amplifies Urban Resilience

Ezekiel Nyanfor

Studies show that more than 1.1 billion people worldwide live in slums, facing inadequate infrastructure and the constant threat of displacement.

In response to this urgent global challenge, UN‑Habitat convened over 57,000 participants from 176 countries at the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from May 17–22.

Amid this historic gathering, Ezekiel Nyanfor, a prominent young Liberian climate policy and diplomacy practitioner, emerged as a strong voice highlighting the urgency of urban resilience in Monrovia and across Liberia.

Across six speaking engagements and a series of strategic bilateral meetings with government officials and international leaders, Nyanfor consistently delivered a compelling call to action.

Aligning with the WUF13 theme, “Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities,” he spotlighted the harsh realities facing Liberia—urban flooding, inadequate waste management, rapid urbanization, housing deficits, weak infrastructure systems, and rising climate vulnerabilities.

He further emphasized the indispensable role of youth, women, civil society, and local communities in driving climate adaptation, strengthening urban resilience, and advancing inclusive urban development.

One of Nyanfor’s strongest messages throughout the forum was clear: frontline communities are not merely beneficiaries of sustainable city initiatives—they are essential drivers of urban solutions.

He stressed that “for cities to become truly sustainable and resilient, young people and local actors must be trusted, equipped, and given direct access to climate finance, skills, and decision‑making spaces.”

Leveraging the global platform, the young Liberian climate leader strengthened strategic partnerships and amplified Liberia’s voice in international conversations on sustainable cities, urban governance, and climate justice.

From Monrovia to Baku, Ezekiel Nyanfor’s engagement reflects the rising influence of Liberian youth in shaping the future of sustainable cities and urban resilience across the Global South.