The Handover of Furniture and IT Equipment to the Eswatini Local Government Association (ELGA)

Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development,

Principal Secretary,

President and Executive Members of the Eswatini Local Government Association (ELGA),

Mayors and CEOs of Local Authorities,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honour to stand before you today on behalf of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) as we mark another milestone in the journey towards sustainable urban development in Eswatini. The handover of essential furniture and IT equipment to ELGA is not just a ceremonial event but a testament to our shared commitment to strengthening local governance structures and fostering resilience in Eswatini’s cities.

The Significance of the Green Cities Initiative

In September 2020, FAO launched the Green Cities Initiative (GCI) with a vision to transform urban spaces by promoting sustainable urban regeneration, enhancing the well-being of city dwellers, and supporting climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. This initiative aligns perfectly with global and national priorities to create green, inclusive, and resilient urban environments.

Eswatini, like many other countries, faces challenges related to climate change, urban expansion, and environmental sustainability. Through the Green Cities Readiness Project, FAO has been working closely with national and local authorities to bridge readiness gaps, ensuring that Eswatini’s cities transition towards sustainability.

Strengthening ELGA for Sustainable Urban Development

A strong and well-resourced ELGA is fundamental to achieving sustainable cities. Today’s handover represents a key step in operationalizing ELGA’s office, enhancing its capacity to coordinate multi-stakeholder governance mechanisms that drive climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Following a comprehensive capacity needs assessment conducted in July 2024, FAO procured vital office equipment and resources to strengthen ELGA’s Secretariat. This support has already begun to yield results, as demonstrated by the successful work planning session held in January 2025, which outlined ELGA’s coordination and implementation strategy for the year ahead.

Going forward, ELGA will continue to play a pivotal role in organizing stakeholder dialogues, developing resolutions and guidelines for sustainable green cities, and ensuring their validation and implementation. Through these efforts, we are laying the groundwork for structured, evidence-based urban policies that prioritize climate resilience and sustainable development.

The Role of the National Geo-Observatory Lab in Sustainable Cities

Another major development we celebrate today is the strengthening of the National Geo-Observatory Lab (NGOL), which will provide critical data and insights to guide Eswatini’s urban planning and sustainability efforts. Since the signing of the hosting agreement in August 2023, we have seen significant progress, including the previous handovers of key technological equipment.

The NGOL will be instrumental in applying Green Cities core indicators, establishing baselines, and informing both public and private investments. By integrating central observatory systems, monitoring, and evaluation mechanisms, this lab will support local authorities in making informed decisions for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

The Road Ahead: Towards Sustainable and Resilient Cities

With a strengthened ELGA Secretariat and an operational National Geo-Observatory Lab, Eswatini’s local government institutions are better equipped to champion green and sustainable urban development. These efforts will not only improve environmental outcomes but also enhance social and economic well-being, ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for urban and peri-urban communities.

FAO remains committed to supporting the government of Eswatini, ELGA, and all stakeholders in this journey. Let us continue working together to build cities that are safe, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Thank you, and congratulations to Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, ELGA and all partners on this significant achievement.