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Figure 3: uMgeni Estuary.
Source: Nature Water And Trees In Durban Stock Photo - Download Image Now - Botanical Garden, Durban, Horizontal - iStock (www.istockphoto.com)
The significance of this initiative goes beyond environmental preservation. With 44% of global GDP at risk from nature loss, cities like Durban must act decisively to safeguard both their natural and economic futures. The Nature-Positive Cities Initiative aims to address these intertwined issues by enhancing biodiversity while also reducing the vulnerabilities of urban economies.
eThekwini’s Role in the Global Initiative
Through eThekwini Municipality membership in the Nature-Positive Cities Initiative, the municipality is at the forefront of creating policy frameworks that prioritize sustainable urban planning. This commitment not only fosters the protection of local biodiversity but also opens doors to new funding opportunities and international collaborations. For instance, the African Natural Capital Alliance is already engaging with the municipality, offering potential partnerships that could accelerate nature-positive projects in Durban.
Additionally, eThekwini’s involvement highlights the importance of innovative financing models for nature-positive developments. At the second global meeting held in February 2024, it was clear that access to financing remains a significant barrier, particularly for cities in the global south. However, initiatives like the Global Biodiversity Framework and partnerships with organizations such as the World Economic Forum are mobilizing resources to address these challenges, ensuring cities like eThekwini have the tools needed to succeed.
During February 2024, eThekwini Municipality hosted a deep dive session, which was one of the interventions that the Global Commission undertook to do with each one of the first five global cities. The deep dive session for eThekwini was held virtually on 7 – 8 February 2024 whereby different line functions and external environmental government agencies, non-governmental organisation had an opportunity to engage with the WEF Team. For the WEF Team, the main aim was to understand governance, financing, partnership arrangements that existing for Durban. Thereafter, a draft report with potential solutions was prepared and is currently under review; with the next steps being the identification of potential funders and partners to assist the eThekwini Municipality in its nature-positive journey. For example, the African Natural Capital Alliance has already provided a brief to the officials on this platform and a recommendation for joining this network is currently in preparation.
Lessons and Opportunities
By being a part of this initiative, eThekwini Municipality can learn from and contribute to global best practices. From the successful example of Montería, Colombia, a city that transformed its river into a social and ecological hub, eThekwini Municipality can draw valuable lessons
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