The concept of social capital has now been so much discussed that one may wonder whether there is anything to add. This collection of original commissioned papers reflect the editor’s belief that there is. Underlying our main concerns is our belief that a properly geographical and sociological account of social capital demands a more critical perspective.

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For the past two years the Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) has been working on a major project to identify national priorities for faster economic and employment growth. More than 20 years after apartheid far too many South Africans live in poverty, largely because far too few have jobs. This has serious implications for our society; South Africa’s considerable democratic achievements are being put at risk by the political, social and economic consequences of low growth, unemployment, poverty and inequality.

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South Africa must think differently about how to make the most of our cities. An agenda for cities of hope and opportunity for all residents will need to cover many issues, including infrastructure, housing, transport, finance and regulation. A key goal needs to focus on overcoming the spatial, institutional and infrastructural legacies that fragment the urban economy. South Africa needs to build integrated, one-city economies that can attract investment and encourage entrepreneurs.

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Getting out of SA’s low-growth, high-unemployment trap requires bold action. One priority is to take advantage of the energies unleashed by urbanisation and the productivity gains our cities can provide. The country’s future is urban and our major metropolitan areas are one of our strengths.

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Cities are the most potent force for social and economic progress and they make possible a standard of living that is inconceivable without them. Cities produce more than 80% of global economic output. The key platforms for national, regional and global growth are urban.

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