Pretoria:Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane emphasized the necessity of collaboration among government, communities, the private sector, civil society, and other stakeholders to address urban challenges and advance the development of inclusive and sustainable human settlements.

According to South African Government News Agency, Simelane's remarks coincide with South Africa's observance of World Habitat Day and the launch of Human Settlements Month and Urban October campaigns, under the theme 'Adequate Housing for All.' The global housing crisis affects an estimated 2.8 billion people, with nearly 1.1 billion living in slums and informal settlements, challenges exacerbated by conflict, disasters, and climate change.

Simelane stressed the urgency of coordinated and sustained efforts to ensure adequate housing is accessible to everyone. She asserted that the country's response to rapid urbanization must extend beyond policy development to include implementation, partnerships, and societal participation. Effective public policy requires stakeholder consultation, and stakeholders should be actively involved in public investments and policy execution.

South Africa's commitments under the New Urban Agenda (NUA), adopted in 2016, guide these efforts toward sustainable urban development through 2036. The Ministry and Department of Human Settlements are pivotal in promoting South Africa's engagement with the global urban agenda.

Simelane presented South Africa's Second Country Report on NUA implementation, which involved stakeholder consultations across governmental and societal sectors. The UN-Habitat Country Office and Country Programme in South Africa, established in collaboration with the South African Government, bolster efforts in spatial transformation, urban development, housing, climate resilience, and other national priorities.

During Human Settlements Month, the department will lead engagements with communities, cities, municipalities, and various stakeholders to transform urban areas. Simelane urged stakeholders to leverage Urban October to deepen dialogue on urban futures and develop practical solutions for challenges posed by rapid urbanization.

South Africa's participation in these initiatives will contribute to the global conversation and highlight programs and partnerships aimed at accelerating sustainable human settlements.