Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Thembi Nkadimeng will host the Brics Urbanisation Forum in Durban, next week, under the theme, ‘Advancing urban resilience for sustainable cities and towns for future generations’.

The forum, which precedes the Brics Summit in August, will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on July 26 and 27.

The Brics Urbanisation Forum will provide a platform for governments, organisations, experts and scholars from Brics member countries to participate and discuss a number of important issues expected to arise at the Brics Summit, and subsequently provide policy advice to leaders who will be in attendance.

The Urbanisation Forum aims to ensure that the key issues of urbanisation are well positioned on the Brics member countries’ global agenda.

Discussions will focus on building productive and sustainable urban economies and livelihood survival strategies in urban environments.

The sharing of insights, best practices and collaboration between Brics countries will further the forums’ objectives of building resilient and sustainable economies. 

Nkadimeng has expressed her commitment towards sustainable urban development. 

“South Africa is honoured to welcome distinguished delegates from Brics countries, as well as other African countries, for this vital gathering that will dissect some of the key urban development issues to understand how, globally, cities are becoming more resilient towards these challenges,” she said.

She said South Africa will use the opportunity to showcase the country’s achievements in urbanisation, by highlighting successful projects that have contributed to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

The eThekwini Metro will showcase its Urban Resilience response following the devastating floods experienced last year.

With the global challenge of significant migration of people into cities, the need for cities to incorporate smart technologies and champion innovative practices represents a strategy earmarked by the forum to respond to issues following migration including congestion, rising crime rates, and growing urban poverty.