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eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
South Africa
ABOUT
Member summary
eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, home to Durban, is the third largest metropolitan municipality in South Africa and the capital of KwaZulu-Natal Province. With a population of over 3.1 million, it is a major hub for trade, tourism, and innovation. A long-standing ICLEI member since 1994, eThekwini has been recognised globally for its leadership in climate resilience, biodiversity, and adaptation — notably hosting COP17 in 2011, which led to the landmark Durban Adaptation Charter.
Details
Population:
~3,199,000
Member since:
1994
Leading sustainability initiatives
INACCT Resilience
Co-developing inclusive and gender-responsive frameworks for coastal climate resilience in informal settlements in eThekwini and Beira.
(2023–ongoing)
FRACTAL
Advanced climate science-policy integration to support resilient development pathways.
(2015–2021)
CoM SSA Signatory
Achieved all Adaptation and Mitigation badges in 2022 under the CDP-ICLEI Track.
(since 2015)
Durban Adaptation Charter
A global legacy from COP17, committing local governments to climate adaptation and resilience action.
(2011–ongoing)
In the face of climate change, eThekwini stands firm in its vision to become Africa’s most caring and liveable city by 2030. Our sustainability initiatives reflect our holistic approach, balancing environmental, economic, and social dimensions for a better future.
Executive Mayor of eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, Mxolisi Kaunda
Related news
25 June 2025
Through our eyes: Community-led innovation in building resilience after the Durban floods
25 June 2025
Through our eyes: Community-led innovation in building resilience after the Durban floods
27 May 2024
eThekwini: Navigating the waves of sustainability and resilience
