Durban - International and local delegates have gathered to discuss the role of planning in addressing Africa's economic, social and environmental challenges.
The 4th Planning Africa Conference, which kicked off on Monday, will create an open arena for discussion about the development challenges in Africa. In addition, the conference also intends on strengthening and growing African planning networks.
One of the challenges that will be considered is the recent global recession which was also felt in South Africa. "KwaZulu-Natal was the hardest hit by the recent recession which resulted in the closure of industries and retrenchments of many people," said KwaZulu-Natal Premier Zweli Mkhize.
But according to Mkhize, KwaZulu-Natal is meeting these challenges head on, by establishing its own Provincial Planning Commission.
The premier also called for focus to be placed on promoting the rural economy and empowerment. "We remain convinced that rural development and the revival of the decaying small towns is vital in stabilising the economy of our province," said Mkhize.
For this to happen, the role of planning cannot be underestimated, said MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Nomusa Dube. "Planners in general are the engines that drive economic development and the prosperity of nations," said Dube.
The MEC added that she hoped delegates would make positive contributions to South Africa's planning instruments that help in fighting poverty, improving education and expanding access to clean water and energy.
The theme for the conference is, Planning Africa 2010 - Beyond Crisis: Opportunity and Action, one that Ethekwini Mayor Obed Mlaba felt was appropriate.
"Challenges posed by exigencies like the recent global economic crisis, migration and HIV and Aids makes planning for service delivery and sustainable a challenge itself. I believe the theme is apt," said Mlaba.
The mayor urged delegates to provide answers to questions such as: how does the country confront some of the challenges pertaining to the global financial crisis, climate change and rapid urbanisation from a planning perspective?
Over the next three days there will also be rigorous discussion and debate on current planning policies and theories. Other developing nations like Columbia, Brazil, Nigeria and India, through the representatives will share their common challenges and progress with their African counterparts.
