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Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane addressed the 58th Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum Plenary Assembly at the Coastlands Hotel and Conference Centre in uMhlanga. The event brought together Presiding Officers and up to five parliamentary representatives from each Member State. Delegates met to discuss regional priorities, including climate change, human settlements, and policy coordination.
Simelane’s address formed part of a high-level symposium focusing on the region’s readiness to manage climate-related disasters. Leaders from across Southern Africa examined the increasing impact of floods, droughts, and extreme weather on communities.
Key Message
Minister Simelane said climate resilience could not be treated as a technical or top-down exercise. She stressed that communities must play a central role in shaping climate information, local planning, and adaptation measures. She argued that people on the ground understood risks best and should be empowered to guide responses.
Simelane also emphasized the cross-border nature of disasters. She said information systems, early warnings, and planning frameworks must move across borders with the same speed as the risks. She urged Member States to strengthen cooperation, share data, and build resilient settlements that protect vulnerable households.
Community Impact
The Minister said community leadership would improve early warning systems, strengthen disaster readiness, and support local development. She encouraged parliaments to create laws that protect poor communities, support climate-smart housing, and expand access to basic services. Delegates agreed that climate resilience required strong collaboration between governments, traditional authorities, civil society, and youth.
