South Africa Reaffirms Commitment To Sustainable Urban Development At WUF12 Summit

South Africa's Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi confirmed the country's commitment to achieving the New Urban Agenda more sustainably.

Speaking at a ministerial roundtable during the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12) Summit in Cairo, Egypt, Kubayi discussed how different levels of government can collaborate more effectively to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, SA News reported.

The New Urban Agenda presents a common vision for a better and more sustainable future. If urbanization is well-planned and well-managed, it can be a powerful tool for sustainable development in both developing and developed countries.

The 12th World Urban Forum Summit is being held with the theme: "It all starts at home. Local actions for sustainable cities and communities."

The roundtable, organized by Executive Director of United Nations-Habitat Anacláudia Rossbach, specifically looked at partnerships and governance structures for improving housing, climate action, financial systems, digital technology and responding to urban crises.

"We have recognized that this is one of the most important areas of work to address issues related to this, in terms of global shared challenges, such as rapid urbanisation, climate change, inequality and inadequate infrastructure," she said.

Kubayi explained that the South African government is using a multistakeholder approach, working with the private sector and civil society to make sure no one is left behind and everyone is included in their programs.

She emphasized that while the government leads policy-making, it also ensures that local-level activities are carried out and supported.

The private sector helps by providing financial support for initiatives and working together to speed up implementation. Furthermore, academic research organizations are also crucial in supporting these efforts.

The South African government has launched a research agenda to ensure that the solutions they offer for implementing the urban agenda and achieving the UN SDGs are based on evidence and can be sustained in the long term.

Kubayi also assured that the government is focused on making sure urbanization is part of their work in governance and leadership for the new urban agenda involving all three levels of government.

She explained that the South African delegation at the summit includes representatives from national, provincial, and local governments. The minister believes this approach is more sustainable and ensures everyone works together.