Amman, Sept. 9 (Petra) – Jordan Volleyball Federation President and
Jordan Olympic Committee Board Member, HRH Princess Ayah bint Faisal,
on Wednesday attended the launch of the “Sport for Sustainable Urban
Development” project, targeting community development through sports.

Designed to transform public spaces, the program uses sports as a
catalyst for community health, social equity, and inclusion, while
helping local authorities embed physical activity into urban
development plans.

Jordan joined Egypt, Ghana, and Brazil in a global initiative
leveraging athletics to drive sustainable development, selecting Ghor
Al-Safi in the Jordan Valley as its pilot project site.

The launch included presentations on initial community assessments in
Ghor Al-Safi and panel discussions with municipal leaders on
sports-focused urban planning.

Initial developments in Ghor Al-Safi focus on upgrading sports
facilities at the Zaha Cultural Center. Upgrades will feature a
running track, an outdoor gym, a beach volleyball court, and an early
childhood play area designed under the Urban95 framework to create
safe, inclusive public spaces.

Zaha Cultural Center Executive Director Rania Sbeih said the project
builds on the center’s presence in Ghor Al-Safi since 2022, framing
sports infrastructure as a vital community investment.

UN-Habitat Jordan’s Head of Country Program Deema Abu Thiab noted
that participatory, evidence-based urban planning ensures resources
directly address local community priorities.

//Petra// HA