MONROVIA, LIBERIA- The World Bank says about 6.7 million Liberians, representing 75 percent of the population, will live in urban areas by 2050.

‎‎According to the World Bank Practice Manager for Urban Resilience and Land, Madhu Raghunath, decisions on infrastructure, drainage, housing, and public services made today will shape the country’s development for decades.

‎‎Madam Raghunath describes urban planning as a policy framework for land use, emphasizing that infrastructure must be prioritized to ensure orderly growth.

She urges policymakers to use factual data in urban planning, noting that evidence-based decisions are key to sustainable development.

‎‎The World Bank Practice Manager for Urban Resilience and Land encourages participants to apply the knowledge gained and promote accurate information to strengthen urban planning efforts nationwide.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works, in partnership with the World Bank through the Liberia Urban Resilience Project, has launched a three-day technical training on Risk-Informed Urban Planning.

‎‎The training aims to equip national and municipal institutions with practical tools to strengthen urban planning and development across Liberia.

‎Speaking at the opening of the workshop on Wednesday in Monrovia, Public Works Minister Roland Giddings said the establishment of well-planned urban cities will help reduce the impact of future disasters.

‎ ‎Minister Giddings urged mayors and other stakeholders to be proactive and inclusive in carrying out their responsibilities.

‎He described training as an important platform that will empower and guide decision-makers in addressing urban development challenges.

The Ministry of Public Works has warned Liberians against constructing buildings in swamps and drainage corridors, citing the risk of flooding and other environmental hazards.