CDE agenda 2019 publication

  • Cities are essential to growth. Agenda 2019: Creating cities of hope asks how our cities can be better managed so that they become platforms of opportunity rather than poverty.
  • South Africa is almost 70% urbanised. However, South African cities are still characterised by urban sprawl, weak urban connectivity, and poor residents on the urban periphery, far from employment and economic opportunity. Poor urban policy has reinforced these problems.
  • Cities need a direct voice, with stronger representation in national policy development and budget processes.
  • Markets must drive growth. Successful development needs the market and the city to come together. The city brings scale, while properly functioning markets ensure efficient allocation.
  • South Africa needs accelerated inclusive growth that is urban-led, private sector driven, and enabled by a smart state that understands markets.