2024-07-11 17:28:49
He President Gustavo Petro Urrego has appointed architect Helga Rivas Ardila as the new Minister of Housing, City and Territory of Colombia. Helga Rivas replaces Catalina Velasco, who has played a prominent role in the administration.
“The new Minister of Housing will be Dr. Helga Rivas, who will replace Catalina Velasco, whom I deeply thank for her commitment,” President Petro said in his message.
Rivas Ardila brings with him vast experience in the public sector. Previously, he held senior positions as manager and deputy manager of the Adaptation Fund.where he led major megaprojects and infrastructure projects in housing, education, health, transportation, water and sanitation. His ability to manage financial, technical and legal complexities has been key to the success of these projects.
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In addition, Rivas has been the acting director of the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD), Manager of the Caja de Vivienda Popular and Secretary of Habitat of Bogotá between 2012 and 2015. Her technical career and her capacity in the formulation and execution of projects have led her to contribute to various public institutions, including the National Planning Department, as well as in the academic field, in research and university teaching.
Helga Rivas’ commitment to community well-being is reflected in her social approach and gender perspective. Her involvement in the reconstruction of Armenia after the 1999 earthquake and in comprehensive neighbourhood upgrading and resettlement programmes, especially with the inclusion of women’s organisations, underlines her dedication to inclusion and sustainable development.
With this appointment, the government hopes that Rivas will continue to promote the development of the housing sector in Colombia, consolidating policies that promote it.
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