South Africa’s economy needs to shift away from its reliance on coal and move towards a low-carbon economy. Cities as drivers of the economy need to play a leading role in this transition, in a manner that advances climate resilience, socio-economic inclusion and equity. Informal settlements cannot be left behind. In fact, informal settlement upgrading should be an urgent national development priority, that has been made even more pressing due to the disproportionate climate impacts in informal settlements. A just urban transition posits informal settlements at the centre of investment, innovation, partnerships and resilience building, which will not only result in dignified, safe, vibrant and sustainable neighbourhoods; it will contribute to the urban dividend.

Informal settlements as catalysts for a just urban transition is a joint initiative of Isandla Institute and National Treasury’s Cities Support Programme, supported by SouthSouthNorth. Informed by a series of critical dialogues, the project has produced insightful knowledge products that conclude with key recommendations for improved practice and policy.