Urban Planning constitute an important component of the Somalia Urban Development Programme. UN-HABITAT is using spatial planning and design as a key dimension for the development of the Somali cities, stricken by 15 years of civil war and lack of institutional drive and capacity to manage the urban growth. The current urban situation is characterised by inflow of great amounts of population displaced by conflict and drought, limited amount of resources, violent conflicts on land property issues, massive land grabbing and absence of strong rule of law; this ultimately result in chaotic urban centres and inefficient development.
The urban planning component has taken on a broader guiding role. A strategic planning approach focused on specific issues and areas, rather than pursuing traditional master planning. Town plans were developed for the main cities, establishing a strategy for urban expansion. One point of attention was the resettlement and integration of IDPs and returnees; on this, UN-HABITAT gave vital inputs to the joint UN IDP strategy. For activities relating to shelter and basic services, additional funding was raised (see the following chapter).
