United Nations Eswatini Hosts National Workshop on Localizing the SDGs through Voluntary Local Reviews

The workshop focuses on localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the implementation of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), strengthening national and local government capacities in Eswatini. This important workshop, organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), is part of Eswatini’s ongoing commitment to accelerate SDG implementation and prepare for its third Voluntary National Review (VNR) in 2025. 

Eswatini previously conducted VNRs in 2019 and 2022. Mr. Benjamin Ofosu, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, will deliver remarks at the opening ceremony, joined by senior representatives from the Government of Eswatini and local authorities. 

The workshop will feature key sessions facilitated by Mr. Jurgen Gafke, Senior Programme Management Officer at UNDESA, and other experts, focusing on SDG planning tools, data collection, and best practices for localizing the 2030 Agenda. 

Highlights of the Workshop Include: 

• Exploring the status of SDG implementation in Eswatini, its alignment with the National Development Plan (2023-2027), and preparations for the 2025 VNR. 

• Discussing approaches for data collection and analysis to support VLRs at the sub-national level. 

• Hands-on exercises for developing VLR roadmaps and engaging stakeholders across local and regional governments. 

• Presentations on global and regional guidelines for VLRs, featuring examples from South Africa and other countries. 

As local governments play an essential role in achieving the SDGs, this workshop will equip policy makers with the skills to localize SDG efforts and foster collaboration between national and local actors. By integrating the SDGs into local planning frameworks, Eswatini aims to address critical development challenges such as poverty, youth unemployment, and environmental sustainability. 

The workshop is a crucial step towards building an inclusive and resilient future, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and AU Agenda 2063. 

For more information, please contact: 

• Jurgen Gafke, Senior Programme Management Officer, UNDESA – Email: gafke@un.org 

• Mphucuko Mamba, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office – Email: mphucuko.mamba@un.org