GAM launches 'Amman Listens' platform to promote communication with citizens

AMMAN — The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM), in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), on Monday launched the pilot version of the "Amman Listens" platform. 

Amman Mayor Yousef Shawarbeh emphasised that the launch of the platform, which coincides with His Majesty King Abdullah's silver jubilee celebrations, reflects the GAM's commitment to digital transformation and the use of technology to serve the city, its residents and the community at large. 

The initiative is an integral part of the municipality's five-year strategy, the national digital transformation plan and the localisation of the global sustainable development goals, he noted.

He stressed that "Amman Listens" will promote transparent, unbiased and seamless communication between the municipality and the people of Amman, especially during challenging times.

Majidah Assaf UNDP Resident Representative in Jordan highlighted the platform's role in strengthening social cohesion, fostering inclusive communities, promoting urban development and positioning Amman as an environmentally sustainable city. 

The project takes a participatory approach, putting citizens at the forefront of development efforts. She said it also aims to attract new investment in municipal services and improve the municipality's responsiveness to residents' needs.

Bloomberg Philanthropies funded this initiative as part of the 2021 Global Mayors Challenge, which saw Amman emerge as the winner among 630 competing cities worldwide.