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The Cities of Johannesburg and Tshwane will co-host the Urban20 (U20) Mayors Summit from 12 to 14 September, bringing together city leaders from around the world to discuss solutions to global urban challenges.
The U20 is a diplomatic initiative co-convened by C40 Cities and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG).
It was launched in 2017 to strengthen the voice of cities within the G20 and focuses on climate action, sustainable development, inclusive growth and access to finance in support of the Sustainable Development Goals.
A key outcome of the summit will be the U20 Communiqué, a declaration of city recommendations formally submitted to the G20 to ensure urban issues are part of global policy discussions.
Johannesburg and Tshwane are serving as co-chairs of this year’s summit. Johannesburg, the country’s economic hub, has advanced in areas such as renewable energy, smart city innovation and social inclusion through its Growth and Development Strategy 2040. Tshwane, the administrative capital, is recognised for governance, infrastructure and environmental planning, including its work on green spaces and inclusive urban development.
Executive Mayors, Dada Morero (Joburg) and Dr. Nasiphi Moya (Tshwane) are expected to welcome their counterparts from around the country’s over 260 municipalities.
Hosting the summit is expected to highlight Africa’s role in global urban policy by addressing issues such as rapid urbanisation, climate risks and infrastructure gaps. The event will also provide a platform to showcase African resilience and innovation, while inspiring future city leaders across the continent.
