The latest jargon in government and amongst the international development intelligentsia are “just transition, just energy transition and just urban transition”. Expect to see these terms liberally used in presentations made by public officials and politicians. “Sustainable development”, “all of society” and “intersectionality” are passé. The words and intentions of the constitution and supporting legislation are no longer relevant.  More “just [insert any word that suits you] transition” type language is on its way just, as I was beginning to transition towards sustainable development by promoting an all of society approach through intersectionality in the circular economy! Perhaps calling it the “just economic transition” is easier?

Friday, 27th May 2022, Nelson Mandela Bay City Manager, Dr Noxolo Nqwazi announced the establishment a multi-stakeholder team towards improving the communication and messaging around the drought induced water crisis currently gripping Nelson Mandel Bay. The city is battling unrelenting water consumption challenge on the back of fast dwindling supplies.

At the launch of the State of the Cities Report recently, the South African Cities Network hosted a panel discussion which covered a wide range of concerns regarding the state of South African cities. To these could be added the urban centres in rural areas, the enduring legacy of apartheid in many of its manifestations.

The Mandela Bay Development Agency held a Stakeholders Dialogue to discuss the Korsten Schauderville Master Plan at Dorothea Jansen Hall on the 21st of April. Over 150 community members representing different sectors which include Sports Clubs, SMME`s, Disabled, ECDC, Churches, NPO`s, Youth Organisations, Community Police Forum, and the South African Police Services were present. 

The Board, Management and staff of the Mandela Bay Development Agency, an entity of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, are deeply saddened by the passing of Chairperson, Ms Mandlakazi Skefile. The news of Skefile’s passing came in the early hours of Friday the 15th of April.