SALGA and BRICS Urbanization Forum: Addressing the Challenges and Opportunities of Urban Development - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

SALGA and BRICS Urbanization Forum: Addressing the Challenges and Opportunities of Urban Development

1 min read

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) recently participated in the BRICS Urbanization Forum, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among member countries in tackling urban growth challenges. This article explores the nuances of urbanization in BRICS nations, the impact of climate change on urban areas, the proposed BRICS Local Government Climate Change Programme and the importance of alternative funding solutions.

Nuances of Urbanization in BRICS Nations

Urbanization affects city centers and rural peripheries alike, offering remarkable opportunities if managed well. With varying levels of urbanization in Brazil (90.6%), Russia (73.8%), China (56%), India (31.2%), and South Africa (62%), nuanced approaches to addressing urban development challenges are necessary.

Impact of Climate Change on Urban Areas

One of the most pressing issues faced by local governments is the impact of climate change on urban areas. Cities across the globe are experiencing a range of extreme climate events that threaten infrastructure and basic services. These climate-related challenges strain public budgets and discourage private investment, potentially jeopardizing a country’s economic growth and financial stability. Vulnerable groups, particularly the poor, are disproportionately affected by these events.

The Proposed BRICS Local Government Climate Change Programme

To address this urgent matter, cities must gain access to climate finance that enables both immediate recovery from extreme events and long-term adaptation to the slow-onset impacts of climate change. The proposed BRICS Local Government Climate Change Programme aims to unlock funding for adaptation and mitigation while supporting cities in establishing necessary human capital and attracting climate-smart investments.

SALGA calls on BRICS member states to establish the Local Government Climate Change Programme, empowering local governments to lead efforts in building coalitions, acquiring climate technical skills, ensuring access to financial resources, and fostering local peer-to-peer learning and good practice exchange. This program would facilitate the collaboration between local governments in addressing global challenges impacting sustainable urbanization, such as climate resilience and peaceful coexistence of citizens in urban spaces.

Innovative Alternative Funding Solutions

To support infrastructure development and climate and disaster resilience in cities, innovative alternative funding solutions from BRICS nations are crucial. Coordinated efforts across all sectors of society and levels of government are necessary to drive effective, efficient, and ambitious climate actions.

The Role of the BRICS Urbanization Forum

Platforms like the BRICS Urbanization Forum play a vital role in promoting multilateral dialogues to find solutions to the many challenges facing sustainable urban development. As part of this forum, SALGA hopes that local government support will be strengthened and the localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to subnational levels will be considered, recognizing that global commitments will ultimately be met or failed at the local level.

By fostering cooperation and exchange of knowledge, tools, and solutions among BRICS member countries, the forum aims to tackle the challenges of urbanization while creating livable, harmonious cities where citizen vulnerabilities can be reduced. Together, these countries can achieve sustainable urban development and contribute to a global effort to build resilient communities that can adapt to the impacts of climate change.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Celebrating Women’s Month with a Slew of Empowering Activities in Cape Town

Next Story

Cape Town: A City of Hope and Progress

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.