SALGA: Spatial transformation agenda holds special importance

Defining a spatial transformation agenda in South Africa is of particular importance, Sithole Mbanga, CEO of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), said during the ministerial roundtable at the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Report informs.

He explained that without such an agenda, the current situation – where poverty and wealth exist side by side but remain disconnected – will persist: "Ideally, we need a proactive government. Local self‑government cannot remain in a purely administrative role, as that has no long‑term perspective. Local government, and indeed the state as a whole, must be proactive in developing or organizing what truly needs to happen in this space. The private sector must accept this organization in pursuit of its profit interests, and as a result, the public sector will see society benefit. This may sound theoretical, but I believe it requires us to be ready to partner in this agenda. That is the essence of the challenge we face in South Africa today."

Mbanga added that the country is currently facing a massive demographic shift: "We are dealing with both immigration and emigration. This is a classic case of anthropology at its best. You cannot stop it; you can only manage it. This principle is extremely important."