Amman:A national initiative has been launched to assist municipalities in creating safer and more inclusive urban environments for young children and their caregivers. Ten municipalities will receive financial, technical, and knowledge-based support for projects focused on early childhood development, public safety, and family well-being.
According to Jordan News Agency, the "My City Cares" initiative was launched under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Local Administration Walid Masri. It is implemented by the Zaha Cultural Center under the ministry's supervision, with support from the Van Leer Foundation.
The initiative emphasizes five key interventions improving streets to enhance pedestrian and caregiver safety, establishing institutional nurseries, developing "Karamish" classrooms for children aged 3 to 6, establishing mental well-being centers, and creating outdoor play areas for children from birth to age 5. Additionally, the "My City Cares Challenge" invites municipalities across Jordan's governorates to participate, with ten municipalities to be selected for support in developing and implementing community-specific projects.
Following the national launch, municipalities will receive guidance in selecting suitable interventions and preparing proposals until December 31 as part of a phased participation process. Deputy Prime Minister Walid Masri noted that the initiative reflects a national effort to integrate the needs of young children and caregivers into urban planning and municipal services through sustainable interventions.
Masri also emphasized the importance of the 2026 Local Administration Law, which promotes good governance by separating policymaking from executive management and encourages "interactive democracy" through community engagement. He urged municipal leaders to prioritize investment in employee development, highlighting a training agreement with the Jordanian Government Administration Academy.
Rania Sbeih, Executive Director of the Zaha Cultural Center, stated that the initiative aims to expand the impact of their programs nationwide by equipping municipalities with the knowledge and tools to design and sustain solutions tailored to local needs. The center has previously implemented various projects, including traffic-calming measures and the development of "Karamish" classrooms and mental well-being centers.
Farah Jadallah, Van Leer Foundation Jordan Country Representative, stressed the importance of viewing cities as interconnected environments that influence children's development and well-being. She highlighted that the initiative's interventions are designed to enhance mobility, learning, psychological health, and social interaction by integrating these measures into municipal planning, thereby improving developmental opportunities and fostering inclusive communities.