United Nations in South Africa

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in South Africa:

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24 October 2025

Greening, Cleaning and Pledging for Climate Action as South Africa Celebrates 80 years of the United Nations

Written by: Nombulelo MalingaTo commemorate the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, the UN family in South Africa hosted a vibrant community outreach event at the Pretoria Art Museum, bringing together youth, local partners, members of the diplomatic community, and civil society. The event was designed to honour the UN’s legacy of peace, development, and human rights while mobilising collective action around climate justice, environmental stewardship, and inclusive progress.The programme invited participants to support the greening of the museum grounds, contribute to a clean and healthy environment, and engage with inspiring art that celebrates creativity and sustainability. Activities included a community clean-up, tree planting, a museum walk-through, an art unveiling, and a climate action pledge signing.Opening the event, Nelson Muffuh, the UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa, shared a message of unity and purpose. “Performing acts of service to the community is what the UN is all about. Doing this as part of our UN Day commemoration is truly befitting. We appreciate the collaboration. When we work in synergy, we can achieve,” he said, adding, “This year’s theme is about doing better together, not only conserving but restoring nature, art, and empowerment.” Welcoming guests on behalf of the Pretoria Art Museum, Melissa Lindeque, Cultural Officer, expressed the museum’s pride in hosting the event. She told participants, “We are honoured to be part of this celebration of the United Nations’ 80th anniversary. The museum is not only a space for art but for community and dialogue. Today’s activities show how creativity and collaboration can inspire real change.” “As we commemorate 80 years of history, heritage and humanity, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to safeguard the environment for future generations,” said Meseret Zemedkun, UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Representative in South Africa. She reaffirmed UNEP’s commitment to advancing a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, underscoring that progress is strongest when the UN works as one family — united in service to people, planet and Member States in pursuit of harmony.Students from Tshwane University of Technology and the University of Pretoria led the clean-up and tree-planting activities, demonstrating the UN’s belief in youth as key agents of change.Among the distinguished guests was Miss Earth Fire 2025, Enhle Moleya, who joined youth and UN staff in pledging support for climate action and a just energy future. Her presence added visibility and inspiration to the day’s message of environmental responsibility.A central feature of the event was the Climate Action Pledge, a collaborative initiative between the UN in South Africa and the Joint SDG Fund. The pledge segment was introduced by Sine Movundlela, an energy expert with the UN in South Africa, who welcomed participants and spoke on the significance of UN Day and the role of the Joint SDG Fund in advancing South Africa’s Just Energy Transition. She highlighted the importance of youth in climate action and the UN’s commitment to leaving no one behind. “The Joint SDG Fund is about enabling communities to lead the transition to clean energy. Today’s pledges reflect our shared commitment to climate justice, equity, and sustainable development,” she said.Participants signed a branded pledge wall, committing to statements such as:
“I pledge to advocate for the inclusion of women, youth, and marginalised groups in climate action.”
“I pledge to take practical steps, such as reducing energy waste and supporting green initiatives.”
“I stand with the United Nations and the Joint SDG Fund in building a sustainable future for all.”Leanne an environmental sciences student, added her voice to the pledge.
“I pledge to support a fair and inclusive transition to clean energy in my community. By planting trees and picking up litter, we’re making our environment healthier for future generations.” The event also featured a powerful art exhibition by environmental activist and artist Natania Botha, whose work sparked dialogue on peace, sustainability, and youth leadership.
“Art has the power to end wars and spark reflection,” she told the audience. “It’s an honour to have my work used to inspire conversations about the United Nations and our shared responsibility.” Natania announced that she would be donating her artwork to the UN as her personal contribution to building a better future. As the world faces growing challenges from climate change to inequality, the UN Day 2025 commemoration in South Africa served as a powerful reminder of what is possible when “we the peoples” act together. Through environmental stewardship, artistic expression, and youth-led pledges, the UN family reaffirmed its commitment to peace, inclusion, and sustainability.The event was led by the United Nations Communications Group (UNCG) and brought together a wide range of partners, including Gauteng Province, the City of Tshwane, Tshwane University of Technology, environmental artist Natania Botha, Plastics SA, Junior Chamber International (JCI), Miss Earth Fire 2025 Enhle Moleya, members of the diplomatic community, the Joint SDG Fund, and the United Nations in South Africa, underscoring a collective commitment to climate action, community engagement and sustainable development.

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08 December 2025

Clean Cooking Dialogue puts women at the centre of South Africa’s Just Energy Transition

Written by: Nombulelo MalingaNkangala District, Mpumalanga – Globally, 2.3 billion people still lack access to clean cooking, which refers to safe, modern energy solutions such as liquefied petroleum gas and bioethanol. Millions of households continue to rely on wood, coal and paraffin, exposing women and children to toxic smoke, environmental degradation and the burden of hours spent collecting firewood. Household air pollution from these fuels causes more than three million premature deaths each year.Against this backdrop, the United Nations in South Africa, together with the Joint SDG Fund and technically led by UN Women, with participation from UNIDO and SEforALL, convened the Dialogue on Pathways for Women’s Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship through Clean Cooking Solutions in Nkangala District. The event also marked the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, reaffirming women’s rights and leadership as central to sustainable development.Welcoming participants, the Nkangala District Municipality highlighted its commitment to being a “future-ready, climate-smart hub” and an economic centre for renewable energy.Dr. Hazel Gooding, Deputy Representative of UN Women South Africa, emphasised the urgency of accelerating clean cooking solutions:“Millions of households still rely on harmful fuels. Women spend hours collecting firewood, while toxic indoor air pollution takes lives and limits economic participation. Clean cooking is not just about energy; it is about empowerment. When households have access to modern clean solutions, women are safer, healthier and able to participate fully in economic and social life.”Mr. Thebe Mamakoko, Senior Energy Negotiator at the Department of Electricity and Energy, added:“As a department, we are honoured to join this engagement on accelerating clean cooking, which supports inclusive economic growth. Success at scale requires unified standards and strong coordination to mobilise financing and ensure long-term sustainability. Commitment, coordination and clarity of vision will deliver clean, safe and modern energy for households across South Africa.”The dialogue moved from high-level framing into panel discussions, where experts and entrepreneurs examined South Africa’s clean cooking value chains, industry practices in manufacturing and distribution, and pathways for women-led enterprises. Later sessions focused on strengthening institutional coordination and developing financing strategies to empower women entrepreneurs.Convened under the mandate of the Joint SDG Fund, one of the UN’s flagship instruments for accelerating integrated SDG solutions, the Dialogue brought together government leaders, UN agencies, financiers, entrepreneurs, innovators and community voices to generate actionable recommendations for national policy and a gender-responsive acceleration of clean cooking solutions.Entrepreneurs in attendance, including clean cooking innovators, training providers and alternative energy suppliers, expressed appreciation for the dialogue and echoed the urgency of advancing clean cooking solutions. They noted that while innovation is strong, barriers remain in accessing financing and in moving from concept to implementation at scale. These concerns fed directly into the Dialogue’s outcomes, where participants identified priority thematic areas to guide the next phase of South Africa’s clean cooking journey.Outcomes:
As a starting point, participants identified five key thematic areas to guide the next phase of South Africa’s clean cooking journey. These areas provide a strategic framework for collaboration and policy development:Clean Cooking Landscape and Existing Value Chains: Mapping current practices and opportunities for scale.Industry-Specific Practices: Advancing manufacturing, distribution and women’s empowerment within clean cooking value chains.Pathways for Women Entrepreneurs: Unlocking opportunities across the sector and ensuring women’s leadership in enterprise development.Institutional Coordination and Implementation: Strengthening arrangements to advance gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.Financing Plan Development: Designing strategies to empower women entrepreneurs and ensure long-term sustainability.These thematic areas will inform future work, ensuring that clean cooking is advanced not only as an energy intervention but as a driver of inclusive economic growth, gender equality and community well-being.

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12 November 2025

South Africa Celebrates Its Culinary Heritage with the Launch of “Roots & Recipes: Indigenous Foods for a Sustainable Future”

The United Nations, the South African Chefs Association (SACA), and the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recently launched Roots & Recipes: Indigenous Foods for a Sustainable Future — a book that celebrates South Africa’s indigenous cuisine while promoting food security, health, and climate resilience.The launch took place at the Nirox Sculpture Park in the Cradle of Humankind, bringing together chefs, farmers, policymakers, and community leaders to honour the country’s diverse food heritage and explore its role in sustainable development.Caption: Panel discussion at the book launchPhoto: © UN South AfricaSpeaking at the launch, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, the Gauteng Member of the Executive Committee, described the cookbook as “a partnership between government, chefs, farmers, scholars, and communities. It embodies the best of what we can achieve when we work together: a fusion of science and tradition, innovation and heritage.”She reflected on the deeper meaning behind the project, noting that “to reclaim our indigenous foods is to reclaim our independence. To cultivate what is ours, in our soil, in our kitchens, in our schools, is to plant the seeds of resilience.”Ms. Ramokgopa emphasized the book’s alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Zero Hunger and Climate Action, adding: “We are saying that African food is not primitive—it is prophetic. It holds the wisdom that can feed the future.”Nelson Muffuh, the UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa, highlighted the initiative as part of a broader UN effort to transform food systems and promote sustainable consumption and production.“Roots and Recipes is a celebration of heritage and a practical guide for sustainable livelihoods,” said Mr. Muffuh. “The answers to hunger, malnutrition, economic empowerment, and even climate stress are often right under our feet in indigenous crops like sorghum, millet, Bambara groundnut, and wild greens.”He underscored three key reasons these foods matter: “First, climate resilience — these crops are tough. They thrive in heat and drought when others fail. Second, nutrition — they are rich in fibre and micronutrients. Third, livelihoods — when we create demand for these foods, smallholders, especially women, win.”The speakers called on South Africans, particularly youth, to embrace and innovate with indigenous foods. Ramokgopa urged young people to see the cookbook not just as a collection of recipes, but as a call to action: “Let this book inspire you not only to cook, but to innovate. To start food businesses, to experiment with recipes, to use social media to tell the stories of our land.”Muffuh echoed this sentiment, encouraging the public to “take this book home, try a recipe, share a meal, and make it trend. Let us turn heritage into a movement, one plate at a time.”Roots & Recipes: Indigenous Foods for a Sustainable Future showcases traditional South African dishes from across the provinces, blending culinary storytelling with sustainability science. Developed in partnership with the SACA, the project connects culture, climate, and community, showing how food can drive both health and economic development.As Ms. Ramokgopa concluded, “This is not an ending. It is a beginning — of a movement to eat consciously, to farm sustainably, and to celebrate proudly. Let us teach our children that umngqusho, morogo, and amadumbe are not the foods of poverty, but the foods of power.”Media Contact:Mr Luthando Kolwapi, Partnerships & Communications Officer Luthando.Kolwapi@fao.orgCaption: Excited guests at the book launchPhoto: © UN South AfricaCaption: Panelists at the Roots & Recipe Cookbook launchPhoto: © UN South AfricaCaption: A vote of thanks to the guests from Luthando Kolwapi, Resource Mobilization, Partnerships & Communications Consultant at FAO Photo: © UN South Africa

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18 November 2025

Advancing Social Development and Justice: Reflections on the Second G20 Social Summit

The ongoing Second G20 Social Summit in South Africa marks a pivotal moment for global governance and inclusive development. As stakeholders from civil society, community organisations, faith and traditional leaders, labour unions, entrepreneurs, and indigenous groups gather ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Meeting, the message is clear: social development and justice must stand at the heart of international cooperation.For South Africa, this conversation is deeply relevant. Our Country Analysis and the new United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2026–2030) underscore the urgency of tackling structural poverty, inequality, and governance deficits while building resilience against climate and economic shocks. These priorities are not abstract—they reflect the lived realities of millions and the aspirations of a nation committed to transformation.Social development and justice are foundational to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Without addressing inequality, hunger, and exclusion, progress on other goals—whether economic growth, education, or climate action—will remain elusive. South Africa’s context illustrates this interdependence: despite being an upper middle-income country, persistent disparities in access to jobs, education, and social protection continue to undermine social cohesion and stability. The Cooperation Framework responds to these challenges through the following underlying and integrated priorities:• Supporting Economic Growth and Social Inclusion• Tackling Structural Poverty and Inequality• Promoting Good Governance, Accountability, and Rights• Building Resilience through Sustainability and Risk Preparedness The G20 Social Summit amplifies these imperatives on a global stage. Under South Africa’s G20 Presidency and its theme of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability, the Summit seeks to elevate social justice and inclusion to the same level of urgency as macroeconomic and trade issues. This is not only about representation—it is about transforming governance to reflect the voices and needs of those historically marginalised. The United Nations in South Africa is proud to accompany and support this effort. Through our exhibition space at the Summit, we showcase the work of UN agencies driving progress on food security, gender equality, climate resilience, and social protection. These interventions align with the six SDGs transitions from the 2023 SDG Summit and included in our Cooperation Framework —food systems, energy access, digital connectivity, education, jobs and social protection, and climate action—each offering catalytic impact across the SDGs. As global leaders prepare to meet, the call from South Africa resonates worldwide: people—not profit, not politics—must be at the centre of development. Advancing social development and justice is not optional; it is essential for achieving the 2030 Agenda and ensuring that no one is left behind.

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17 November 2025

Partnerships for Progress: SABII Launch Signals a New Chapter for South Africa’s Businesses

Johannesburg, 17 November 2025 – On any given morning in South Africa, a young entrepreneur opens her small logistics start-up not knowing whether the power will stay on long enough to meet a delivery deadline. A farm worker in Limpopo wonders if unpredictable rainfall will again wipe out the harvest that feeds his family. A recent graduate in Mamelodi scrolls through job boards, navigating a labour market that feels distant, exclusive, and unforgiving.Their realities, mirroring the struggles and hopes of millions, set the backdrop for the launch of the South Africa Business Initiative for Impact (SABII), a new bridge between business, government, and the United Nations.SABII was launched as a B20 side event during South Africa’s G20 Presidency, marking a landmark collaboration between the UN in South Africa, Naspers South Africa, the UN Global Compact South Africa Network, and B20 South Africa.As the national anchor for the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI), SABII brought the momentum of the “Unstoppable Africa” movement to South Africa, uniting the UN and business leaders to drive tangible progress in four key areas: Energy Transition for Economic Security, Digitization for Inclusive Growth, Human Capital Development for Shared Prosperity, and Food Systems Transformation for Resilient Livelihoods. More than just a launch, SABII served as a call to action, an invitation to rethink partnerships, rebuild trust, and envision a future where development was powered not only by policy, but by people. Opening the event, Ms Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, CEO of Naspers, framed SABII’s mission around the lived experiences of ordinary South Africans. She emphasized that success must extend beyond companies to benefit communities, and that young people should encounter opportunities not obstacles in the digital and economic landscape. Drawing on the spirit of the “Unstoppable Africa” movement, she positioned SABII as a platform amplifying historically marginalized African voices in global growth conversations.UN in South Africa Resident Coordinator, Nelson Muffuh, urged translating ambition into measurable action as South Africa assumed its G20 presidency. His message was reinforced by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, speaking via video, who stressed that partnerships must deliver results. She highlighted the critical role of finance in fostering inclusive growth, noting that a prosperous Africa strengthens global prosperity. “Let us make SABII a living example of what collective leadership can achieve. Let us ensure this platform delivers results that matter not just for South Africa, but for the continent. And let us keep SABII connected to global frameworks like GABI and the G20 priorities, so that our national efforts amplify Africa’s voice on the world stage.” - UN in South Africa Resident Coordinator, Nelson Muffuh B20 Sherpa Mr Cas Coovadia offered a sober, pragmatic perspective on the global economic landscape. With geopolitical instability and a fragmented global order, he argued, collaboration is no longer optional. Businesses must track commitments, ensure implementation follows recommendations, and align priorities across borders making partnership both an economic necessity and a pathway to inclusive, sustainable growth, he said. The UN Assistant Secretary-General and the UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director, Regional Bureau for Africa, Ahunna Eziakonwa, declared, “This moment matters,” challenging the outdated narrative of Africa as a passive aid recipient. Highlighting African innovation from the Takealot Data Hub to the Timbuktu Innovation Initiative she emphasized that Africa’s creativity and competence are now benchmarks shaping global markets.Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director, United Nations Global Compact, amplified Africa’s business narrative by stressing the power of narrative and collaboration. African business must be amplified, not merely appended. SABII, she noted, is more than a platform it is a vehicle to reshape how Africa’s business story is told to the world.The SABII launch convened a powerhouse of thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers to discuss Africa’s most pressing development frontiers, from digital transformation and green energy to human capital and climate-smart agriculture, sparking bold conversations on how the continent can harness its potential for inclusive, sustainable growth.Digitization: Sustaining Livelihoods in an increasingly digital world The first panel focused on how digital access is transforming everyday life and the economy. Speakers from Takealot, McKinsey Africa, and the Ministry of Small Business Development highlighted a crucial point: technology is becoming one of the most powerful tools for reducing inequality. Digital platforms are already helping small businesses reach new markets and giving young people new income opportunities. The panel also stressed that this future must be accessible to everyone. That means affordable data, reliable connectivity, and digital skills that match the jobs of tomorrow. They also warned against over-regulation of platform work. Instead, South Africa needs smart, balanced policies that protect workers while still allowing innovation to grow.Energy Transition: Green Mobility The second panel turned to the realities of South Africa’s energy transition. With experts from renewable energy companies, mobility platforms, and green technology, the conversation made one thing clear: the shift to clean energy is not just environmental, it is economic.Electric vehicles, renewable power, and green mobility can reshape entire industries, create new jobs, and make South Africa more competitive globally. But to make that shift possible, the country needs the right incentives, easier access to finance, and support for black-owned energy businesses trying to enter this fast-growing sector. Panelists also stressed that the transition must be fair. South Africans who depend on traditional transport and energy systems must not be left behind.Human Capital Development: Investing in Skills DevelopmentAnother important discussion centres on youth development, skills, and the future of work. Leaders from government, academia, and youth development organisations agreed that South Africa’s greatest competitive advantage is its young population.But this advantage only becomes real when young people have skills that match a rapidly changing Labour market. Speakers called for modernized training systems, stronger digital skills programmes, and more support for young women, who face even greater barriers. They also emphasized the need for fair and evidence-based systems that ensure young people benefit from new opportunities.Food Systems Transformation and Climate-Smart AgricultureThe conversation on food systems and climate-smart agriculture reminded everyone that food security is directly linked to climate security. As South Africa faces more frequent droughts, floods, and climate shocks, farmers need more support.Experts called for investments in climate-resistant crops, better farming technologies, and supply chains that can withstand extreme weather. This shift is not only about protecting food; it is about protecting livelihoods across rural and urban communities.Across all the panels, a clear message emerged: South Africa’s progress depends on partnership, intentional inclusion, and bold reimagining. Government, business, civil society, and the UN must work together to unlock opportunities across the digital, green, and agricultural economies, ensuring that youth, women, and marginalized communities are not just participants, but beneficiaries. Innovation must extend beyond technology to a new mindset, one willing to redesign old systems, embrace new models, and position Africa not as an observer, but as an active leader in global development conversations.The SABII programme demonstrated that South Africa possesses the ideas, expertise, and leadership to drive meaningful change, but what is now required is coordinated, measurable action that puts people at the center of progress. From digital transformation and green mobility to climate-smart agriculture, the path forward is clear: transformation must be partnership-driven, inclusive, and grounded in shared responsibility. Closing the event, Dr. Leila Fourie, CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, reminded attendees that thriving societies create thriving markets, a message that captured the spirit of the day. More than a launch, SABII represents a platform for collective action, a new chapter in South Africa’s social and economic renewal, and a renewed commitment to elevating Africa’s voice, strengthening public-private cooperation, and ensuring inclusive development lies at the heart of national progress.

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19 February 2026

Nothing About Us Without Us: Why Disability Inclusion Must Shape South Africa’s Development

There is an African idiom that has always grounded me: “motho ke motho ka batho” in SeSotho and in isiZulu:, “umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu”, which means “a person becomes a person through others”. This, to me, is more than a cultural expression; it is a blueprint for development.A young person with a disability should never have to wonder whether their voice matters. Yet, too often, inclusion is treated as an afterthought — something considered once decisions have already been made. In my role as Coordination and Inclusion Officer for the United Nations in South Africa, I see daily how meaningful participation transforms outcomes. When we design programmes in health, education, livelihoods or governance, disability inclusion cannot be a side conversation. It must be central to how we plan, budget, implement and evaluate our work. I often say that inclusion begins with listening. The phrase “Nothing about us without us” is not just a rallying call — it is a development necessity. When persons with disabilities are involved from the very beginning, their lived realities shape better, smarter and more sustainable interventions. We avoid costly last-minute adjustments. We build programmes that are accessible by design. Most importantly, we affirm dignity.But good intentions alone are not enough. To turn commitment into measurable action, the UN system is guided by the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy and its Disability Inclusion Scorecard. I often describe the Scorecard as our mirror. It forces us to look honestly at ourselves: Are our offices accessible? Are we collecting disaggregated data? Are persons with disabilities represented in decision-making? Are our partnerships inclusive?The Scorecard measures performance across leadership, programming, human resources, accessibility and culture. It gives us benchmarks and helps us track progress over time. Aligning our programmes with it ensures that disability inclusion is not symbolic or reactive, but systematic and intentional. For me, that accountability is powerful. It moves inclusion from aspiration to action. It also sends a clear message: disability inclusion is everyone’s responsibility, not the work of one focal point or unit.Of course, the greatest barrier is not always technical — it is attitudinal. Misconceptions and unconscious biases about persons with disabilities still shape decision-making spaces. Too often, disability is seen through a lens of limitation rather than contribution. Yet I have witnessed, time and again, the innovation, leadership and resilience that persons with disabilities bring when given the opportunity to participate fully. When people feel valued, included and protected, they invest in the success of programmes. They become partners, not passive recipients. Communities become stronger because solutions are grounded in real experiences. Institutions become more responsive and equitable.Looking ahead, I imagine a South Africa where disability inclusion is so embedded that it no longer needs special mention — where accessibility is standard practice, where participation is expected, and where development is measured not only by outputs, but by dignity.Inclusion is not charity. It is not a favour. It is justice. And when we truly embrace the spirit of “umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu,” we understand that sustainable development can only succeed when everyone has a seat at the table.

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18 February 2026

From Aspiration to Implementation: UN and Tutu Legacy Foundation Convene 4th Annual Post-SONA Reflection

CAPE TOWN – In the days following South Africa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), the United Nations in South Africa and the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation convened leaders from government, business, civil society and youth movements at the historic Tutu House for the fourth annual Post-SONA High Tea.The purpose was clear: to move beyond vision statements and into the “really important work of delivery” at a moment when fewer than five years remain to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).A Year of Historic ReflectionOpening the dialogue, Janet Jobson, Chief Executive Officer of the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, noted that 2026 carries deep historical resonance for South Africa. It marks 50 years since the 1976 uprising, 70 years since the 1956 Women’s March, 30 years since the adoption of the Constitution and 31 years since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission began its work. Against this backdrop, she challenged participants to focus on what she described as the “moral work of transformation.”“Are we building institutions that embody Ubuntu and treat every single person with dignity? And are we growing hope, not just stabilising systems?” she asked.A portrait of Archbishop Desmond Tutu by artist Gavin Rain was presented to the Foundation in advance of what would have been the Archbishop’s 95th birthday, underscoring the continued relevance of his moral leadership.The Constitution as CompassDelivering the keynote reflection, Professor Thuli Madonsela, Law Trust Chair in Social Justice at Stellenbosch University and former Public Protector, argued that South Africa’s Constitution remains the ultimate benchmark for evaluating government performance. Revisiting the story of “Tintswalo” – the symbolic child born into democracy – she asked whether today’s policies genuinely protect young people from hunger, unemployment and gender-based violence.Professor Madonsela cautioned against what she termed “Trojan horses” – economic gains that do not translate into meaningful development – and “stray bullets,” the unintended policy consequences that disproportionately harm vulnerable communities. She called for systems thinking in governance and recommended the use of tools such as the Social Justice Impact Assessment Matrix to anticipate the social impact of policies before implementation.Measuring What MattersThe Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, outlined government efforts to strengthen accountability by shifting from measuring outputs to measuring outcomes. “In the past, we looked at outputs,” she said. “But we have changed now; we look at outcomes. Building five clinics only matters if they have changed any lives.”She highlighted the Medium-Term Development Plan, which consolidates national priorities into three pillars: inclusive growth and job creation; reducing the cost of living; and building a capable, ethical and developmental state.Principled Leadership and Global Responsibility Thandi Moraka, the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, reflected on South Africa’s role on the global stage, including its leadership in the G20 and engagement at the International Court of Justice. She described the country’s foreign policy approach as rooted in principle, drawing from the legacies of Archbishop Tutu and late President Nelson Mandela.Voices from Across Society The interactive session brought a range of perspectives into the discussion. Business leader Nolita Fakude emphasized sustained engagement between the private sector and government to address structural challenges such as energy, logistics and crime. Representing civil society, Ella from Ilitha Labantu highlighted the daily realities faced by women in the Cape Flats and called for gender-sensitive training for security forces deployed to improve community safety. Youth advocate Nico Pampier urged a shift from youth participation to youth leadership and welcomed the continued inclusion of LGBTQI+ rights in national discourse.Partnership for DeliveryClosing the dialogue, the UN Resident Coordinator Nelson Muffuh reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to working alongside South Africa to accelerate SDG delivery. “The government must be held to account,” he said, “but most importantly be partnered with to deliver for everyone.”As the conversation concluded, one message stood out: South Africa has a strong constitutional foundation and well-articulated policies. The challenge is implementation at the speed and scale that people’s lives require.With 2030 fast approaching, the SDGs are not abstract targets. They represent real children growing up, real women seeking safety, and real workers in need of opportunity. As participants reflected, the task ahead is collective – ensuring that institutions, partners and citizens work together to translate aspiration into tangible progress.

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12 February 2026

Ilitha Labantu: Where South Africa’s Gender-Based Violence crisis stops being a statistic and becomes a Life

Walking into Ilitha Labantu’s offices in Gugulethu township today with colleagues from the UN Country Team, I was reminded again that gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa is not merely a national crisis. It is a national wound. One that never seems to close, because the same forces that inflict it are often the ones responsible for healing it. Inside the compound, long before any formal presentation, the truth was already waiting for us quietly, painfully, in the line outside. Women and community members queuing for a hot meal, for safety, for counselling, for some form of certainty in an environment where very little is guaranteed. These are not beneficiaries. These are survivors navigating a system that continues to fail them. A moment of reflection was also necessary here. Ilitha Labantu exists because of the vision and courage of Mma Mandisa Monakali, whose conviction that women deserve dignity, justice and full humanity still shapes the organisation’s approach today. Her clarity of purpose and refusal to accept the normalisation of violence created a space that continues to save lives and influence national thinking. Her legacy remains alive in the work, tone and integrity of the institution. What struck me again is how much of Ilitha Labantu’s work is done by young women themselves, 80 percent of the staff, many just in their twenties and early thirties. Women who could easily be the very survivors they are supporting. Women carrying the emotional labour of a nation. Connecting the Dots Because Violence Never Happens in Isolation Ilitha Labantu is not a single service organisation. It is a map, dynamic, interconnected and painfully honest, of the lived reality in communities where violence is not an incident but a daily environment. Five departments clinical psychosocial services, legal support, outreach and education, food security and the empowerment of women seeking to exit abusive relationships work together not as a programme, but as a survival ecosystem. From counselling survivors to training SAPS officers; from engaging learners, teachers and principals; from advocating in courtrooms to delivering breakfast and lunch to the elderly and families living in extreme precarity, Ilitha Labantu stands as both a frontline responder and a systemic watchdog. Their work exposes something we in the UN system are also grappling with. GBV is multidimensional, and our response, too often, is not. The Maps That Reveal What Statistics Hide One of the most powerful moments during our visit was when the team unfolded the maps created through their W17 network of GBV service providers mapping exercise. Side by side, they revealed a contradiction that should unsettle every policymaker in this country. In the metro areas, service points clinics, shelters, Thuthuzela Care Centres cluster densely. In regions like the Central Karoo, an entire landscape lies bare. Entire districts without a single Thuthuzela Care Centre. Entire districts where survivors are expected to report violence with nowhere to turn immediately after as survivors search for help that technically exists, yet remains practically inaccessible due to uncoordinated efforts across departments and state entities. Prevention The Investment We Refuse to Make One of the colleagues said something that stayed with me long after the meeting ended: 
"Violence is not happening in a vacuum. It is happening because policies are not adhered to, because developmental failures accumulate, because families live on top of each other, because there is no prevention." Prevention requires confronting uncomfortable truths:  Unemployment.Housing conditions.Inequality.Substance abuse.Patriarchal norms.Disrupted educational pathways caused by poverty, trauma and community condition.And the enduring legacy of Apartheid era spatial planning and inequalities, which continue to shape exposure to violence, restrict access to services, and hardwire vulnerability into certain communities. This is why prevention is often politically unattractive. It forces us into the grey areas where development, policing, economics and social norms intersect. And yet this is where the real work must be done. For the UN, a Mirror and a Call to Action As I told the team during our discussion, what Ilitha Labantu does connecting legal support, psychosocial care, education, food security, police training and community empowerment is exactly what we at the United Nations must hold ourselves accountable to. A coordinated, multidimensional response. UN Women, UNFPA, UNAIDS, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNDP, UNODC, WHO, OHCHR, UNHCHR, ILO and IOM each bring essential strengths. Our challenge now is to further integrate them meaningfully, not through aligned and parallel efforts but through a focused, community rooted approach that mirrors what Ilitha Labantu has built. This visit reminded me of the power of consistency, of showing up, of grounding global commitments in local lived realities. The Work Ahead for All Stakeholders  Leaving the building, I felt humbled. Encouraged. And unsettled, as we should be. Because the maps we saw today are not just maps of the Western Cape. They are maps of the gaps in our collective response. 
Maps of lives cut short. 
Maps of systems that work only on paper. 
Maps of resilience too often mistaken for acceptance. What lies ahead must be different. Federating efforts, integrating and concentrating interventions, reinforcing coordination and pooling resources are not optional improvements. They are essential. These remain prevailing gaps in the national response to GBV and addressing them will determine whether the work ahead is transformative or merely incremental. Ilitha Labantu is not just delivering services. It is holding up a mirror to the country, and to all of us. The question is whether we will act on what we see.

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10 February 2026

Bridging the digital divide to empower livelihoods

In towns and rural villages across South Africa, digital technology is no longer a luxury, it has become the backbone of opportunity, transforming how people work, learn and earn. For a small business owner in a rural province, access to online marketplaces can mean the difference between surviving and thriving. For young people, it opens doors to education, skills development, and employment, while for communities, connectivity provides access to health services, financial tools, and essential information, a lifeline in an increasingly digital world. Yet for millions, this promise remains out of reach, as limited broadband, high data costs, and gaps in digital literacy continue to perpetuate inequality, particularly for women, youth, and small-scale entrepreneurs.At the launch of the South Africa Business Initiative for Impact (SABII), a panel discussion moderated by Prajna Khanna, Vice President for Sustainability at Prosus and Naspers Group, brought together leaders from government and business to explore how South Africa can accelerate digital transformation for inclusive growth. The discussion featured Deputy Minister of Small Business Development Jane Sithole, Takealot CEO Fred Zietsman, The Collective X CEO Evan Jones, and McKinsey Africa Chair Dr. Acha Leke, who reflected on the growing role of digital innovation in strengthening resilience, financial inclusion, human capital development, and global competitiveness. While acknowledging progress in urban connectivity, the panel underscored persistent challenges, including affordability, infrastructure gaps and limited digital literacy in rural and informal economies. The conversation highlighted practical pathways to drive impact, including expanding affordable broadband, strengthening regulatory frameworks to support fintech and e-commerce, investing in digital skills development, fostering entrepreneurship, and strengthening public-private partnerships, while promoting ethical data use and digital rights to build trust in the digital economy.“Digital transformation is Africa’s biggest opportunity to unlock productivity and economic growth. While connectivity has improved, the real challenge is expanding access by making devices affordable, lowering data costs and strengthening digital skills. Scaling partnerships and innovative financing will be key to ensuring digital inclusion and competitiveness,” said Dr. Acha Leke, Chair of McKinsey Africa.It was agreed that scaling digital inclusion requires a multi-pronged approach: affordable handsets and data, public-private partnerships, supportive regulatory frameworks, and investment in local tech innovation. Combined with deliberate efforts to upskill youth, women, and marginalized communities, these strategies can turn digital access into sustainable livelihoods.A Call to Act — NowSouth Africa stands at a pivotal moment. Expanding connectivity, lowering the cost of data, promoting digital literacy, and supporting local tech innovation are essential not only for economic growth but for equity, inclusion, and resilience. By committing to a digital-first, youth-led, and inclusive approach, the country can ensure technology becomes a bridge to opportunity, a tool for empowerment, and a foundation for shared prosperity.

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Story

04 February 2026

Why human capital development is South Africa’s greatest opportunity

The people of South Africa are its greatest resource, not its minerals or infrastructure. But millions of young South Africans still can't fully participate in the economy because they don't have the right skills, not enough work experience, or equal access to opportunities. At the same time, employers are having find it difficult to get people with skills that are ready for the future, and social protection systems are becoming more and more stressed.Closing this gap isn't just a problem for the job market; it's also important for long-term competitiveness, social cohesion, and inclusive growth.The South Africa Business Initiative for Impact (SABII), based on the UN's Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI), is helping to make human capital development more coordinated. SABII is bringing together business, government, and development partners to get things moving in important areas of change, such as digitization, the energy transition, food systems, and human capital. These areas are in line with national and global development goals.Investing in skills and health is at the heart of developing human capital. To get South Africa's demographic dividend, the country's education and training systems need to be in line with the needs of a changing economy. This should be backed up by ways to get into work, start a business, and continuous learning throughout life. This includes teaching young people and women the skills they need for new industries, as well as recognising that mental health and good working conditions are important for productivity and participation in the economy.Working together with the public and private sectors is very important. Aligning school subjects with what employers want, adding more internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship programmes, and helping small and medium-sized businesses through buying and investing can all speed up job creation and boost local economies. To build a diverse workforce, it's important to make sure that these opportunities get to rural and underserved communities.The choices people make today will shape South Africa's future. Investing in skills, health, and opportunities is not just a nice thing to do; it is necessary for the economy. South Africa can unlock its greatest asset and lay the groundwork for shared prosperity by committing to people-centred, future-ready human capital development.

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Press Release

05 March 2026

No country in the world has reached full legal equality for women and girls

On 8 March 2026, International Women’s Day, UN Women issues a global alert: justice systems meant to uphold rights, and the rule of law are failing women and girls everywhere. Women globally hold just 64 per cent of the legal rights of men, exposing them to discrimination, violence, and exclusion at every stage of their lives.This is one of the findings of the new United Nations Secretary-General’s report, “Ensuring and Strengthening Access to Justice for All Women and Girls”. The same report reveals that in over half of the world’s countries – 54 per cent – rape is still not defined on the basis of consent, meaning a woman can be raped and the law may not recognize it as a crime. A girl can still be forced to marry, by national law, in nearly 3 out of 4 countries. And in 44 per cent of countries, the law does not mandate equal remuneration for work of equal value, meaning women can still legally be paid less for the same work.“When women and girls are denied justice, the damage goes far beyond any single case. Public trust erodes, institutions lose legitimacy, and the rule of law itself is weakened. A justice system that fails half the population cannot claim to uphold justice at all,” said UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous.As backlash against longstanding commitments on gender equality intensifies, violations of the rights of women and girls are accelerating, fueled by a global culture of impunity, spanning from courts to online spaces to conflict. Laws are being rewritten to restrict the freedoms of women and girls, silence their voices, and enable abuse without consequence. As technology outpaces regulation, women and girls face growing digital violence in a climate of impunity where perpetrators are rarely held accountable. In conflicts, rape continues to be used as a weapon of war, with reported cases of sexual violence rising by 87 per cent in just two years.The UN Secretary General’s report also shows that progress is possible: 87 per cent of countries have enacted domestic violence legislation, and more than 40 countries have strengthened constitutional protections for women and girls over the past decade. But laws alone are not enough. Discriminatory social norms – stigma, victim-blaming, fear, and community pressure – continue to silence survivors and obstruct justice, allowing even the most extreme forms of violence, including femicide, to go unpunished. Women’s access to justice is also prevented by everyday realities such as cost, time, language, and a deep lack of trust in the very institutions meant to protect them.This International Women’s Day 2026, under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” UN Women calls for urgent and decisive action: end impunity, defend the rule of law, and deliver equality – in law, in practice, and in every sphere of life – for all women and girls. This year’s 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) – the United Nations’ highest-level intergovernmental body that sets global standards for women’s rights and gender equality – is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reverse rollback of women’s rights and ensure justice. “Now is the moment to stand up, show up, and speak up for rights, for justice, and for action – so that every woman and girl can live safely, speak freely, and live equally,” stressed UN Women Executive Director, Sima Bahous.International’s Women’s Day Commemoration and the opening of CSW70 will take place this year on the same day, back-to-back, on 9 March 2026 in the UN General Assembly, starting at 9:00 a.m. EST and online.For media enquiries, please contact Maphuti Mahlaba, UN Women South Africa Communication Analyst, at Email: maphuti.mahlaba@unwomen.org or Tel.: +27 65 742 4459.

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Press Release

18 February 2026

From vision and promises to tangible livelihoods interventions

Cape Town – Senior government officials, business leaders, civil society activists, academics, and diplomats gathered at the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation on Friday for the fourth Annual Post-SONA High Tea, convened in partnership with the United Nations in South Africa.The meeting, soon after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), focused on a central question: how to translate policy promises into measurable development results, as the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approaches and mindful of the National Development Plan and the Midterm Development Plan of the 7th Administration.With poverty, unemployment, crime and violence, inequality and social exclusion still impacting the wellbeing of millions, speakers affirmed that South Africa’s development challenge is as much about governance and accountability as it is about policy design.Under the theme “From Vision 2030 for Sustainable Development to Collective Action and Accountability,” participants examined whether planning is impact-oriented and future-proofed and institutions are sufficiently coordinated, transparent and responsive to accelerate SDG implementation.Janet Jobson, Chief Executive Officer of the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, said reflections on SONA must be grounded in the moral framework championed by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.“Are we protecting the most vulnerable, speaking truth without fear or favour, and building institutions that treat every person with dignity?” she asked. “That is how we move from aspiration to delivery.”The UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa, Nelson Muffuh, stressed that dialogue must translate into outcomes.“The goal is to move from discussion to the actual work required to deliver the outcomes expressed in SONA and, most importantly, the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said, adding that oversight, justice and accountability lie “at the heart of efforts to deliver development results.”This year’s event coincided with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was chaired by the late Archbishop Tutu. Participants reflected on how the Commission’s principles of truth, justice and reconciliation remain relevant to strengthening institutional integrity and rebuilding public trust.Professor Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector and now Law Trust Research Chair in Social Justice at Stellenbosch University, delivered a special address. She urged Parliament and Chapter 9 Institutions to use the Constitution as the benchmark for evaluating government performance.Madonsela cautioned that economic growth alone cannot be the sole measure of progress. Growth, she warned, can become a “Trojan horse” if it deepens inequality or produces unintended harms for vulnerable communities.She called for “systems thinking” in policymaking and recommended tools such as Social Justice Impact Assessments to anticipate the social consequences of policy decisions, particularly in relation to poverty, corruption and gender-based violence.Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka reflected on South Africa’s leadership role in the G20 and its global standing.“We pride ourselves in having built a country that is united, that is more non-racial, that is non-sexist, and that reflects the demographics of our population,” she said.The Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, in her keynote address emphasised coordinated action across sectors.“When government aligns its plans, development partners coordinate their support, business invests with purpose, and civil society anchors our efforts in community realities, those little bits of good become a national force for change,” she said.With fewer than five years remaining before the 2030 SDG deadline, speakers agreed that the core issue is no longer whether South Africa has the right frameworks in place, but whether institutions can deliver consistently, transparently and at scale.The UN and the Tutu Legacy Foundation said they would continue to convene the annual Post-SONA dialogue as a platform for cross-sector accountability and partnership. Media Contacts:Solange Nolan, Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Tel: +27 63 468 1425, Email: solange@tutu.org.zaEunice Namugwe, UN Information Centre, Tel: +27 71 682 8310, Email: namugwe@un.org Note to the editors:The Annual Post-SONA High Tea is held in the immediate wake of the State of the Nation Address (SONA), providing a focused opportunity to move from policy announcement to practical implementation. This year's gathering was the fourth annual convening, with particular emphasis on the quality of governance, accountability and institutional trust required for tangible progress toward the SDGs.High-resolution photographs from the event: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xYsgz6R9VKXjdavgHzzqYYu9pAn8RN6b?usp=sharing

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Press Release

16 January 2026

United Nations stands in solidarity with communities affected by floods across Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces

Pretoria, 16 January 2026 — The United Nations in South Africa expresses its sincere condolences to all families who have lost loved ones and stands in solidarity with communities affected across Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.The heavy rains have tragically resulted in at least 19 confirmed deaths across the two provinces since the start of disruptive summer weather, as rivers overflow, bridges are damaged, and communities face rising danger. The South African Weather Service has maintained a Red Level 10 (disruptive rain) warning — its highest alert for life‑threatening flood risk across vulnerable areas.“The floods have brought immense grief and disruption, and the shared task is clear: protect people now and rebuild smarter. Coordinated efforts are crucial as government, communities and partners work to restore services, safeguard livelihoods, and protect ecosystems under strain, so recovery strengthens resilience to future climate‑related extremes,” said Nelson Muffuh, United Nations Resident Coordinator in South Africa.The floods have caused widespread destruction of homes and critical infrastructure, including schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, and low‑lying crossings. Many schools, clinics, and health facilities have been rendered inaccessible or damaged, and essential services remain disrupted in several communities. The floods have also disrupted protected ecosystems and heritage flora and fauna.We commend the efforts of national, provincial, and local authorities, as well as emergency responders and community volunteers, who are working tirelessly under difficult conditions. President Cyril Ramaphosa has visited the hardest‑hit communities in Limpopo to assess the scale of damage as coordinated response efforts are stepped up with provincial and national disaster management teams.As the situation evolves, the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to working with government and partners to support efforts to protect lives and enhance community safety; help restore essential services, infrastructure, and livelihoods; strengthen recovery and resilience to climate‑related disasters and extreme weather events.For interviews and media enquiries, please contact Eunice Namugwe, UN Information Centre Pretoria, at Email: namugwe@un.org or Tel.: +27 71 6828 310.

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Press Release

05 December 2025

FAO Hosts Expert Consultation on Leveraging Trade in Agricultural Services under AfCFTA Johannesburg, South Africa | 3–5 December 2025

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has convened a high-level Expert Consultation Meeting in Johannesburg from 3 to 5 December 2025, under the theme “Leveraging Trade in Agricultural Services as a Driver of the Agri-Food System within the Context of AfCFTA.” The meeting brings together policymakers, trade experts, development practitioners, and stakeholders from across Africa to deliberate on the conceptual, statistical, and policy dimensions of trade in agricultural services.Opening the consultation, the FAO Representative in South Africa, Dr. Babagana Ahmadu, welcomed delegates and underscored the strategic timing of the meeting, noting that it follows shortly after the historic G20 Leaders’ Summit hosted in Johannesburg. “This meeting addresses a very germane and topical issue, and it could not have come at a better time,” he said, highlighting Africa’s growing role in shaping global economic and development discourse.Dr. Ahmadu emphasized the centrality of agriculture to Africa’s economy and livelihoods. “Agriculture, no doubt, is a major economic sector for Africa which generates about US$ 100 billion annually or 16.5% of the continent’s GDP,” he noted, adding that while contributions vary widely across countries, the sector remains critical for employment, food security, and exports. He further pointed out that Africa has been a net importer of basic food products for over two decades, underscoring the urgency of strengthening domestic and regional agri-food systems.Turning to the role of services, Dr. Ahmadu observed that the global economy is increasingly services-driven. “The service sector currently accounts for over two-thirds of global GDP, attracting more than three-quarters of foreign direct investment in developed economies, and ranks among the leading drivers of global job creation,” he said. In Africa, services now account for nearly half of GDP in Sub-Saharan Africa, reaching as high as 62.7 percent in South Africa.Despite this growth, Dr. Ahmadu stressed that agricultural services remain undervalued and poorly integrated into trade and policy frameworks. “Agricultural services play a crucial role in the entire value chain from pre-production to post-production, distribution and consumption. Despite its importance, trade in agricultural services is not well defined and regulated by international trade frameworks,” he stated. He warned that this lack of recognition has left agricultural services “conceptually and statistically marginalized,” limiting their visibility in national accounts and trade negotiations.He further noted that definitional gaps pose major policy challenges: “The lack of a clear and comprehensive definition of agricultural services [is] leading to conceptual, statistical, and policy-related challenges. A well-defined framework for agricultural services would yield substantial benefits, enabling more targeted policies, facilitating trade and investment, strengthening value chains, and fostering broader socio-economic growth, particularly within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”Dr. Ahmadu concluded by reaffirming confidence in the outcomes of the consultation, stating: “With the calibre of people that I have seen here today, I have no doubt that these objectives would be realized.”FAO Reaffirms Commitment to AfCFTA ImplementationDelivering opening remarks to the technical sessions, Dr. Salamat Ali, Senior Economist and Lead of the Trade Policy and Trade Agreements Team in FAO’s Markets and Trade Division, outlined FAO’s strategic approach to supporting member countries. He explained that the team’s work rests on “three interconnected pillars: evidence-based analysis, policy dialogue, and capacity building in member countries,” adding that these functions reinforce one another in strengthening trade-related outcomes.Dr. Ali emphasized that supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA is a top priority for FAO. “The AfCFTA, the world’s largest trade agreement by membership, must succeed if countries are to navigate this evolving challenging development landscape, and FAO is committed to contributing to that success,” he said. He also highlighted the structural vulnerabilities across the continent, noting that the region includes “30 LDCs and 16 LLDCs, each facing deep structural constraints and requiring sustained support.”Addressing the thematic focus of the consultation, Dr. Ali stressed that the dialogue on agricultural services is both urgent and necessary. “The consultation on agricultural services is both timely and essential,” he said, pointing to persistent food insecurity and high dependence on international trade across many African countries. He further observed that “premature de-industrialization has increased the share of services in several economies,” making the effective regulation and facilitation of agricultural-related services more important than ever.Dr. Ali underscored the transformative potential of liberalizing agricultural services. “Liberalizing and facilitating agricultural-related services is crucial for reducing transaction costs and improving efficiency across agricultural production, trade, and post-harvest processes,” he stated. He concluded by reaffirming that improving how agricultural services are understood and governed is central to Africa’s development trajectory: “Advancing the understanding, classification, and policy treatment of agricultural services is central to strengthening agrifood systems under the AfCFTA and achieving more resilient, secure, and competitive economies across the continent.”Toward Stronger Agri-Food Systems under AfCFTAThe Expert Consultation aims to develop a shared working definition of agricultural services, examine gaps in existing international trade frameworks, and explore policy pathways for integrating agricultural services more effectively into the AfCFTA’s trade in services pillar. Expected outcomes include clearer policy recommendations, improved statistical recognition, and strategic inputs to support intra-African trade and investment.By convening this consultation, FAO is reinforcing its commitment to enabling Africa to harness the full potential of agricultural services as a catalyst for inclusive growth, food security, and sustainable development under the AfCFTA framework.ENDSMedia Contact:
Luthando Kolwapi

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Press Release

18 November 2025

South Africa Unveils Business Initiative for Impact as G20 Presidency Takes Centre Stage

The United Nations and business launched the South Africa Business Initiative for Impact (SABII), a platform committed to advancing sustainable development and inclusive economic growth in South Africa. As the first localised platform of the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI), SABII exists to boost local entrepreneurship, connect South African businesses to African and global markets, and attract foreign investments, whilst promoting sustainable and inclusive job-creation and emissions-friendly growth.SABII is aligned to four national priorities - Energy Transition, Digitisation, Human Capital Development, and Food Systems Transformation - key imperatives to drive meaningful change on the African continent. Through coordinated action, SABII sets out to accelerate green mobility and renewable energy adoption, launch a digital livelihood initiative to promote digital skilling, bridge the skills-to-jobs gap for unemployed youth, and promote climate-smart agriculture to strengthen food security.Underlying SABII is the strategic insight: these challenges are too complex for the government, business, or the UN to solve alone. SABII is the permanent infrastructure that connects the three sectors – with clear roles, measurable outcomes, and shared accountability."No single institution - public or private - can drive systemic change alone. Energy transition requires joint investment. Digitisation requires shared infrastructure and innovation. Human capital requires collective responsibility. Food systems require coordinated action across value chains. SABII can only succeed therefore through strong, sustained partnerships," noted Nelson Muffuh, United Nations Resident Coordinator."If we stay committed, transparent, and united, this platform will outlast the summit, outlast the headlines, and become part of South Africa's long-term institutional strength. This is how we build an ecosystem where we partner with the whole of society to make a demonstrable difference," said Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, SA CEO and Executive Director of Naspers and Prosus. "As a founding partner of SABII in South Africa, Naspers is committed to driving impact through coordinated action".United Nations Assistant Secretary-General Ms. Sanda Ojiambo attended the launch and affirmed that the initiative will play a vital role in empowering local enterprises to scale sustainably and competitively across value chains.As an official B20 South Africa side event, the launch was attended by B20 Sherpa Cas Coovadia. The B20 Summit begins tomorrow. SABII's launch today positions South African business leadership at the centre of global business conversation, and as the national mechanism for converting B20 outcomes into bold, future-ready partnerships that unlock opportunity. About SABIIThe South Africa Business Initiative for Impact is South Africa's national anchor of the Global Africa Business Initiative. SABII brings together business, the United Nations, and government through four pillars: Energy Transition, Digitisation, Human Capital Development, and Food Systems Transformation. The partnership includes the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, the UN Global Compact, business champions including Naspers as founding partner, and the South African Government.About GABILaunched at the UN General Assembly in September 2022, the Global Africa Business Initiative has elevated Africa's standing in the global economy through three successful New York convenings. Under "Unstoppable Africa," GABI connects African and global business leaders, governments, and investors on solutions aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Africa Agenda 2063.About the United Nations in South AfricaThe United Nations in South Africa works with national partners to advance the full spectrum of the Sustainable Development Goals. Through policy support, joint programmes, and partnerships with government, civil society and the private sector, the UN helps drive inclusive development, human rights, climate resilience, and social and economic transformation that leaves no one behind.About Naspers:Established in 1915, Naspers has transformed itself to become a global consumer internet company and one of the largest technology investors in the world. Through Prosus, the group operates and invests globally in markets with long-term growth potential, building leading consumer internet companies that empower people and enrich communities. Prosus has its primary listing on Euronext Amsterdam, and a secondary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and Naspers is the majority owner of Prosus. In South Africa, Naspers is one of the foremost investors in the technology sector and is committed to building its internet and ecommerce companies. These include Takealot, Mr D Food, Autotrader, Property24 and PayU, in addition to Media24, South Africa’s leading print and digital media business.Naspers has a primary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (NPN.SJ) and a secondary listing on the A2X Exchange (NPN.AJ) in South Africa and a level 1 American Depository Receipt (ADR) programme which trades on an over-the-counter basis in the US.For more information, please visit www.naspers.com.Note to the editors:SABII Key Strategic PillarsEnergy TransitionPolicy Challenge: South Africa faces persistent energy insecurity, high carbon emissions, and limited access to clean transport infrastructure. The transition to green mobility is hindered by fragmented policy implementation, underinvestment in public transport electrification, and slow uptake of renewable energy solutions.Opportunity: SABII can catalyse a coordinated shift by convening stakeholders across government, industry, and finance to scale green mobility solutions. Leveraging South Africa's automotive manufacturing base and regional transport corridors offers a pathway to decarbonise mobility while creating jobs.Call to Action: Mobilise blended finance and regulatory reform to accelerate electric vehicle adoption, public transport electrification, and local battery production. SABII should establish a national platform to align industrial policy, infrastructure investment, and climate goals under the GABI umbrella.DigitisationPolicy Challenge: Despite high mobile penetration, digital exclusion persists - especially in rural and informal economies. The digital economy is growing, but many South Africans lack the skills, connectivity, and platforms to participate meaningfully.Opportunity: SABII can drive inclusive digitisation by convening actors to expand access to digital livelihoods. South Africa's fintech leadership and innovation ecosystem offers scalable models for financial inclusion and e-commerce.Call to Action: Launch a national digital livelihoods initiative under SABII to promote digital skilling, platform access, and inclusive fintech. This should include public-private partnerships to expand connectivity, digital literacy, and microenterprise support.Human Capital DevelopmentPolicy Challenge: South Africa's youth unemployment crisis is compounded by a mismatch between education outputs and labour market needs. Social protection systems are under strain, and skilling initiatives are fragmented.Opportunity: SABII can unify efforts across education, skilling, and social protection by convening leaders from business, government, and civil society. This signals a commitment to systemic reform and inclusive growth.Call to Action: Establish a SABII-led national skills and jobs platform aligned with GABI's human capital goals. This should integrate TVET reform, employer-led training, and targeted social protection for vulnerable groups.Food Systems TransformationPolicy Challenge: South Africa's food systems are vulnerable to climate shocks, land degradation, and inequality in access to nutritious food. Agricultural innovation is uneven, and smallholder farmers face systemic barriers.Opportunity: SABII can convene agribusiness leaders, government, and UN agencies to promote climate-smart agriculture and resilient food systems. South Africa's agro-processing sector and regional trade links offer leverage points for transformation.Call to Action: Launch a SABII food systems innovation hub to pilot climate-smart practices, support smallholder integration, and promote nutrition-sensitive agriculture. This should align with GABI's sustainability and equity principles.

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