The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Representative for Southern Africa, Fakhruddin Azizi, has presented his credentials to Deputy Minister Alvin Botes of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), formally taking up his responsibilities as UNIDO Representative for the region.
Following the presentation of his credentials, Azizi expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve in the region and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening UNIDO’s cooperation with the Government of South Africa and regional partners.
Strengthening UNIDO–South Africa Cooperation
The engagement underscores the longstanding partnership between UNIDO and South Africa and the shared commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable industrial development.
Azizi said he looks forward to working closely with the South African Government and partners across the region to further strengthen cooperation and advance common development priorities.
The engagement comes as countries across Southern Africa continue efforts to promote industrialisation, economic transformation, regional integration and sustainable economic growth.
Advancing Shared Regional Priorities
During his tenure, the UNIDO Representative will support cooperation around several key priorities affecting sustainable industrial development in Southern Africa.
These include climate change, regional integration and trade, sustainable food systems, and sustainable supply chains.
These areas are particularly important to strengthening productive capacities, improving economic resilience and supporting sustainable and inclusive growth across the region.
Supporting Sustainable Industrial Development
Azizi reaffirmed his commitment to building on UNIDO’s longstanding engagement with South Africa and countries in Southern Africa.
Through strengthened partnerships with governments and other stakeholders, UNIDO seeks to support industrial development that promotes economic opportunities while responding to environmental and developmental challenges.
The presentation of credentials to Deputy Minister Alvin Botes marks an important step in the Representative’s tenure and provides a foundation for continued engagement between UNIDO, South Africa and countries across Southern Africa.
Azizi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome received in South Africa and said he looked forward to deepening UNIDO’s engagement and partnerships throughout the region.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Inclusive and sustainable industrial development
- Climate change and environmental sustainability
- Regional integration and trade
- Sustainable food systems
- Sustainable supply chains
- Strengthening regional partnerships
The credential presentation signals UNIDO’s continued commitment to working with South Africa and its regional partners to advance sustainable industrialisation, economic development and regional cooperation.
