UNDP is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and
resources to help people build a better life.
The UNDP has deployed its global resources in support of the Millennium Development Goals, particularly that of halving poverty by 2015. UNDP's focus in South Africa is to help government and civil society build
and share solutions to the challenges of local governance; poverty reduction; energy and environment; and HIV/AIDS.
A brief hitory about UNDP
Before 1994, UNDP supported the anti-apartheid struggle as well as efforts to lay the foundations for a post-apartheid
society. After the election of 1994, UNDP's Executive Board accepted South Africa as a programme country and a country office
was established in Pretoria.
The UNDP country office is headed by a Resident Representative, who, as the UN Resident Coordinator, also coordinates the
development activities of the United Nations system in South Africa.
Pilot initiatives were launched to respond to South Africa's urgent needs until a comprehensive Country Cooperation Framework
(CCF) was finalised in 1997. The first CCF (1997-2001) aimed at reducing poverty and inequality in South Africa through two
major programmes: creating sustainable livelihoods, and promoting sound governance.
