BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Appolo Maphalala, is participating in the 12th Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, currently taking place in Addis Ababa.
According to information from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the high-level forum, convened by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, is being held from 28 to 30 April 2026 in a hybrid format, bringing together policymakers, experts and stakeholders from across the continent.
Strengthening Africa’s sustainable development agenda
The forum serves as a strategic platform aimed at strengthening Africa’s implementation of both the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Agenda 2063.
Key discussions are focused on enhancing the effectiveness of Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) and Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), which are essential tools used by countries and local authorities to track progress on sustainable development commitments.
Participants are sharing best practices, lessons learnt and common challenges encountered in conducting these reviews, while also exploring ways to strengthen alignment between national and local development processes.
Linking policy, planning and measurable outcomes
A central theme of the session is how VNRs and VLRs can better inform policy formulation, planning and budgeting processes. Delegates are examining how these mechanisms can support more integrated, results-driven development approaches across African countries.
The forum is also placing emphasis on aligning review processes with practical implementation roadmaps to ensure measurable and tangible progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the broader aspirations of Agenda 2063.
In addition, the session provides an opportunity to reflect on key outcomes from pre-forum engagements focused on improving the effectiveness and impact of VNRs and VLRs.
Eswatini showcases progress in local development
Eswatini’s participation offers an important platform to highlight the country’s experiences and lessons learnt, particularly in developing its first Voluntary Local Review.
Through this engagement, the country is reinforcing its commitment to inclusive and sustainable urban development, as well as evidence-based governance that supports long-term national growth.
Minister Maphalala’s presence at the forum underscores Eswatini’s dedication to collaborating with regional partners in advancing sustainable development priorities, while ensuring that local and national efforts remain aligned and impactful.
