The Eastern Cape Provincial Government and the United Nations have entered a landmark partnership aimed at accelerating inclusive and sustainable development in the province. The Joint Declaration of Intent was signed this week, in Bhisho.

The ceremony was attended by UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa, Mr. Nelson Muffuh, members of the provincial executive, and representatives of the diplomatic corps.

The declaration outlines a framework for cooperation between the UN and the Eastern Cape, aligning with the province s priorities of job creation, poverty reduction, tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable and ethical developmental state. Areas of collaboration will include agriculture and food security, climate change resilience, education, healthcare, governance, and the empowerment of women, youth, and marginalized communities.

Premier Mabuyane highlighted that the agreement positions the province to tap into global economic opportunities. With two strategic seaports and growing access to the African Continental Free Trade Area, the Eastern Cape aims to strengthen trade links, integrate into global value chains, and leverage international cooperation to drive long-term growth.

Expressing gratitude to the UN, the Premier described the agreement as a seed of transformation” whose benefits will be reaped by future generations.

This partnership ensures that the Eastern Cape not only overcomes its past but emerges as a beacon of inclusive and sustainable development,” Mabuyane concluded.