The conference is an important step in achieving action plans for the province for the next 10 years. An extraordinary effort has been undertaken in terms of participation not only from government, but also civil society, labour and business. The format of the conference differs from previous Sustainable Development Conferences in that already drafted action plans will be presented and discussed at the Conference, taking cognisance of the important strategic decisions already taken. * The Planning Development Council will facilitate the negotiations of these specific implementation plans with civil society, labour, business and government.
Minister Essop comments: "Although the broad macro-economic initiatives are in place, this is a novel approach to tackling sustainable development and will form part of and enhance Ikapa Elihlumayo, the Western Cape's growth and development strategy. The draft action plans would have been put together by the people who will be affected, the people whose future we are trying to secure, and the focus is thus on action. The conference will also include a people's forum, Ilizwi la bantu."
Essop says that this is the first such conference to be held by a province in South Africa specifically to align high level objectives with the particular needs of the province. "We are looking at the overall economic growth agenda for the Western Cape as championed by the Premier and our Department is leading the process to ensure that sustainable development action plans form an integral part of this agenda."
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning will play a co-ordination role to ensure that delivery on key areas is facilitated across various portfolios. Minister Essop explains: "The attainment of a workable action plan, one that has been arrived at through a consultative process, is the ultimate goal of the conference and our preceding engagement with all levels of society in the Western Cape."
Issued by: Lynnette Johns
PRO: Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Spokesperson: Minister Tasneem Essop
For further information:
Mark Gordon
Director: Functional Support
Tel: 021 483 3911/5837
Fax: 021 483 4440
