Date: 2025-11-07 08:15:09

Town Planning Highlighted As Key Driver Of Transformation At National Indaba

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

TOWN PLANNING HIGHLIGHTED AS KEY DRIVER OF TRANSFORMATION AT NATIONAL INDABA 

Town planning remains a cornerstone of spatial, economic, and social transformation. 

This was the central theme at the World Planning Day Indaba, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 6 to 7 November.

The two-day event, convened in celebration of World Town Planning Day, recognised the critical role of town planners in shaping sustainable and inclusive urban environments. 

The Indaba was hosted in collaboration with the South African Planning Institute (SAPI), the South African Council of Planners (SACPLAN), the South African Local Government Association, and the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform.

EThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele officially opened the Indaba, underscoring the importance of integrating town planners into strategic decision-making platforms.

“This year’s theme, ‘With Planning We Can,’ serves as a powerful reminder that effective planning empowers communities and creates pathways to shared prosperity. Planning is not merely about maps and regulations, it is about connecting people to opportunities, ensuring appropriate housing development, and aligning infrastructure with the spaces where we live, work, and play,” he stated. 

Mbhele added that planning plays a pivotal role in addressing climate change challenges by promoting sustainable land use, green infrastructure, and resilient urban design.

The City Manager further emphasised the alignment of planning efforts with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 11 , and the priorities of the UN-Habitat Strategic Plan. 

“Planning is a vital tool to ensure that no one is left behind. In times of uncertainty, our profession must be part of the solution. Through inclusive and participatory processes, we can address systemic inequalities, enhance resilience, and deliver improved outcomes for all.”

SAPI President Dr Johannes Mulaudzi highlighted the role of planners in confronting the interlinked challenges of inequality, poverty, and unemployment. 

He advocated for planning models that are resilient, collaborative, and responsive to shifting economic, political, and social dynamics. 

“We must dismantle the legacy of apartheid spatial planning through inclusive approaches that elevate the voices of marginalised communities. SACPLAN and SAPI are well-positioned to lead this transformation," he emphasised. 

INkosi Sibonelo Mkhize of the AbaMbo Traditional Council called for greater involvement of traditional leaders in planning processes. 

“Development must reflect the character of rural communities. Urbanisation is not the only path forward-some prefer the tranquillity of agricultural life. Nothing for us without us," Mkhize said.

Concluding the session, Mntwana Victor Mkhwanzi shared a poignant reflection during his presentation on the Mpukunyoni Master Plan.

“Our land carries the wisdom of our ancestors and the promise of our children," he concluded. 

ENDS

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.