UNCT Annual Results Report 2023

This Annual Country Results Report 2023 encapsulates the United Nations in South Africa’s concerted efforts to address national challenges and progress towards sustainable development in the country, against a global landscape marked by economic instability and a national context of high interest rates, escalating food and fuel costs, governance issues and energy limitations. This report details our actions within the framework of our strategic priorities, notably underpinning the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the National Development Plan. The complexities of the current global economic scenario, coupled with local adversities, including the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and sociopolitical tensions, have posed formidable challenges. Despite this, the resilience and determination of the South African people, supported by unwavering governmental and multisectoral partnerships, have enabled meaningful strides towards inclusive and sustainable development.

Our commitment to the Just Energy Transition and also to advancing rights-based inclusive economic development that leaves no one behind remains a cornerstone of our efforts, ensuring an equitable shift towards sustainable energy solutions and a low-carbon yet inclusive, localized, digitized and sustainable growth trajectory. In 2023, we helped develop various dialogues and policy frameworks to facilitate South Africa's inclusive shift to a low-carbon economy. Advocacy was undertaken, technical insights were provided, a diverse group of stakeholders was engaged to ensure inclusivity and partnerships were advanced to ensure fairness in this crucial transition.

In our fight against gender-based violence, the United Nations has ramped up its initiatives, launching significant interventions and partnerships aimed at eradicating this deep-seated issue across society. Our collaborative efforts have fostered robust multisectoral responses and raised awareness across communities, contributing to a safer environment for all South Africans.

The health and educational support programmes have seen substantial progress this year in building human capabilities and a better life for all. Our health initiatives have been pivotal in advancing universal health coverage, including substantial support to the National Health Insurance scheme. In education, conscious that access to primary education is close to universal levels, we focused on enhancing the quality of education, from early childhood through tertiary education, and particularly on digital literacy and technological integration, to prepare young South Africans for a competitive global economy.

Longstanding lack of trust in institutions and accountability concerns, against the backdrop of the national elections in May 2024, meant it was critical for us to support inclusive, responsive, accountable, ethical and rights-based governance. Institutional and democratic processes gained additional importance. Our efforts have helped ensure that all South Africans can participate meaningfully and can increasingly trust in the future of our rainbow nation.

Looking ahead, our resolve to support South Africa in its ambitious efforts to achieve its National Development Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals is unwavering. The insights gained, collaborations forged and interventions carried out this year have been invaluable, and will guide our future strategies to maximize impact. We extend our thanks to the Government of South Africa, international and development partners, civil society, local authorities, traditional and faith leaders, the private sector and the dedicated citizens who have made these achievements possible. This tireless support through active citizenry and collaboration is essential as we continue our journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals together by 2030.

The United Nations is continually inspired by the guidance and engagement of national authorities and stakeholders as well as by the dedication and growing synergy of the United Nations Country Team and our partners. Our path to 2030 is fraught with challenges but also ripe with opportunities to foster a society that embraces inclusivity, sustainability and resilience. With collective efforts and a shared vision, we are poised to ensure that every South African can realize their full potential in a vibrant, equitable and sustainable nation.

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