KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, presided over the Climate Change and Sustainable Development Council held at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre on Friday, 03 July 2026.

The council brought together Members of the Executive Council, Mayors, traditional leaders, members of academia, climate change experts and senior government officials to deliberate on practical interventions aimed at strengthening the province’s response to climate change and sustainable development.

Delivering the opening address, Premier Ntuli emphasised the importance of ensuring that climate change solutions are understood, supported and owned by communities. He noted that international experience has shown that sustainable climate interventions are most effective when society actively participates in their implementation.

“When a climate change solution is owned by the society, results are evident and impactful,” said Premier Ntuli.

The Premier said KwaZulu-Natal must continue to build a coordinated and inclusive response to climate change, particularly as municipalities, communities and vulnerable sectors face the growing impact of extreme weather events, environmental degradation and resource pressures.

The council discussed several key areas, including the implementation of the Climate Change Resilience Action Plan, climate change funding sources for municipalities, and proposals aimed at strengthening the province’s climate change response.

Premier Ntuli also called on members of the council to pay particular attention to the role of municipal bylaws in addressing climate change. He said local government remains central to ensuring that climate resilience measures are translated into practical action within communities.

The Premier further urged all stakeholders to work together in developing sustainable solutions that are responsive to the needs of KwaZulu-Natal and aligned with the broader objective of building a resilient, environmentally responsible and economically inclusive province.

The council forms part of ongoing efforts by the Provincial Government to strengthen partnerships, improve coordination and ensure that climate change and sustainable development remain at the centre of KwaZulu-Natal’s development agenda.