The city of Rabat was unanimously selected by a committee of experts to receive the UN-Habitat 2024 Honorary Award during the celebration of World Habitat Day in Querétaro, Mexico. The award recognizes cities that have made significant contributions to urban development and improved the quality of life for their residents. Rabat City Council said in a statement that the award is a testament to the success of the «Rabat City of Light, Moroccan Capital of Culture» program initiated by King Mohammed VI. The program has transformed Rabat into a dynamic cultural and sporting hub, aligning with the principles of sustainable urban development outlined in SDG No. 11. The city has focused on redeveloping public spaces, promoting community engagement, and improving access to social services. One notable achievement is the creation of 175 community playgrounds throughout the city, offering opportunities for sports, recreation, and social inclusion, especially for young people. Rabat has also established a dedicated entity to organize events and foster community involvement. The «Rabat Jeunesse» competition in 2023 attracted over 8,700 participants, demonstrating the positive impact of these initiatives. Under the visionary leadership of King Mohammed VI, Rabat is serving as an inspiring model for good governance and urban development, harmonizing culture, inclusion, and sustainability.
