Lessons learned from the risk-informed urban development initiative in the SADC region

This study presents the systemisation of lessons learned from the urban sector in which the measures based on the guiding principle of risk-informed development (RID) have been implemented in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region at the national and/or sub-national levels. Despite notable risks in the region, these are not adequately considered in urban development planning and programming. Aiming at strengthening RID in the SADC region, the objectives of this peer-to-peer exchange were achieved through virtual workshops, roundtables and briefings on a cloud-based and open-source BigBlueButton Web conferencing system. Risk-based decision frameworks were used as footprints throughout the moderation phases. Peer-to-peer exchanges totalled 25 events and 80 registered individual members. About 14 SADC member states and 26 cities represented by city officials, local governments and academia participated in this process. Results along the risk-based decision frameworks lead to a clustering of recurring topics during the peer-to-peer exchange, which are presented along legal and organisational setups; budget and funding; risk assessment and mitigation options; and data and information flows considerations.

Aligned with the 'Regional Assessment on Urban Vulnerability and Resilience in SADC Member States' by conclusions provide a series of recommendations for risk-informed urban development in the SADC region.