Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai, says developing nations cannot achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development alone, even as South Africa continues its work to eradicate poverty, fight inequality and protect the planet.
Mohai was speaking during the General Debate of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development in New York on Tuesday.
He told the international community that South Africa continues to strengthen efforts to reduce poverty, inequality and unemployment, while promoting sustainable industrialisation, climate resilience, food security, energy transition and social protection.
“South Africa remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly women, youth, persons with disabilities, rural communities, and other vulnerable groups.
“We also continue to strengthen partnerships with civil society, the private sector, academia, development partners, and international organisations to support inclusive and sustainable development outcomes,” Mohai said.
Despite a challenging global and domestic environment, Mohai said South Africa has made progress in several areas.
“Access to electricity, safe drinking water, sanitation, digital connectivity, and social protection services has improved over the years. Investments in renewable energy and sustainable industrialisation are contributing to a more resilient and inclusive economy.
“The expansion of broadband infrastructure and digital access is creating new opportunities for innovation, education, and economic participation. At the same time, we acknowledge that significant challenges remain,” he said.
As the SDGs require stronger implementation, partnerships and financing, South Africa continues to prioritise infrastructure investment and maintenance, energy transition initiatives, industrial development, youth employment, skills development and climate resilience.
Mohai stressed that developing countries cannot achieve the SDGs alone.
“The international community must honour commitments related to financing for development, technology transfer, capacity building, debt sustainability, and reform of the global financial architecture. There is an urgent need for scaled-up concessional financing and equitable access to climate finance to support sustainable development priorities in the Global South.
“As we move closer to 2030, we must accelerate implementation through bold leadership, policy coherence, innovation, and strengthened partnerships.
“South Africa reaffirms the importance of solidarity, inclusive growth, and sustainable development that leaves no one behind,” Mohai said. –SAnews.gov.za
