BY NOMTHANDAZO MAYISELA (INTERN)
MBABANE– Eswatini is taking part in key continental discussions on development, as Minister of Housing and Urban Development Honourable Appolo Maphalala attends the Twelfth Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 28 to 30 April 2026.
The forum, convened by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, brings together African leaders, policymakers and stakeholders to strengthen the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063.
According to information sourced from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development Facebook page, the forum focuses on improving Voluntary National Reviews and Voluntary Local Reviews. These tools help countries measure progress, share lessons learned and identify common challenges affecting development.
Discussions also explore how national and local processes can be better linked. This includes improving planning, budgeting and policy decisions so that development efforts reach communities more effectively.
For many emaSwati, development is not just about policies but about real change in their daily lives. Access to better housing, infrastructure and services remains a priority, making such platforms important for shaping solutions.
Eswatini’s participation also provides an opportunity to showcase its experience in developing its first Voluntary Local Review. At the same time, the country is learning from others on how to strengthen systems and improve service delivery.
The forum further looks at aligning development plans with practical implementation. This ensures that commitments made at national level translate into measurable results at community level.
As Eswatini engages in these discussions, the focus remains on building inclusive and sustainable urban spaces that respond to the needs of the people while driving long term national development.
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(Courtesy Pic)
