Pretoria: Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, announced the signing of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), which reaffirms the shared commitment between South Africa and the United Nations towards fostering an inclusive, prosperous, resilient, and just society. The signing ceremony took place in Pretoria, marking the start of a significant phase of cooperation aimed at delivering tangible improvements in the lives of South Africans.
According to South African Government News Agency, the agreement underscores the critical role of collective leadership, shared responsibility, and lasting partnerships in achieving sustainable development. Ramokgopa expressed gratitude towards various stakeholders, including government departments, organized business, civil society, and development partners, for their contributions to the framework's development.
The Minister emphasized that the signing of the Cooperation Framework symbolizes a transition from planning to action, highlighting the readiness to achieve measurable outcomes and real improvements in citizens' lives. She reiterated the importance of international cooperation in supporting South Africa's national development goals and strengthening institutions.
The framework, aligned with South Africa's national planning framework, arrives at a crucial time following the adoption of the Government of National Unity's Medium-Term Development Plan (2024-2029). This plan focuses on economic growth, job creation, poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and energy security, among other priorities. The framework aims to support these goals through policy advice, technical assistance, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
The initiative also aligns with global commitments, such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union's Agenda 2063. Ramokgopa stressed that the success of the framework would be measured by its impact on people's lives, including job creation for youth, improved access to public services, and enhanced economic opportunities for women and vulnerable groups.
United Nations Resident Coordinator Nelson Muffuh highlighted the deeper commitment embodied by the framework, emphasizing that the partnership aims to bring tangible improvements in people's lives. Muffuh noted that while progress has been made globally towards the Sustainable Development Goals, the pace remains insufficient.
The Cooperation Framework represents a five-year partnership from 2026 to 2030, setting a strategic direction for collaboration between the South African government and the UN system. It reaffirms the commitment to inclusive economic growth, reducing inequality, strengthening institutions, and ensuring environmental protection, with a focus on leaving no one behind.
The ceremony was attended by Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, senior government representatives, civil society organizations, foundations, diplomatic corps members, United Nations entities, and development partners, signifying a united front in tackling the challenges ahead.
