South Africa recently hosted the 2025 Urban 20 (U20) Mayoral Summit in Johannesburg and Tshwane from 12–14 September 2025, marking the first time this G20 engagement group convened on the African continent. U20 brings together mayors from major G20 cities and local governments worldwide to provide urban and local perspectives on global economic, social, and environmental issues (Urban20). The summit was co-chaired by Johannesburg’s Executive Mayor Dada Morero and Tshwane’s Executive Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya.
Over 30 cities participated, with representatives from Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas. The summit focused on ensuring that cities are recognised as active partners in global decision-making rather than merely implementers of national policy. Key topics included climate finance, sustainable urban infrastructure, inclusive economic development, affordable housing, public service delivery, and digital transformation (C40).
A major outcome of the summit was the drafting of a U20 Communiqué, summarising recommendations from participating cities. This document will be formally submitted to the South African G20 Presidency to inform discussions at the G20 Leaders’ Summit scheduled for 22–23 November 2025 in Johannesburg. The Communiqué emphasises urban priorities such as climate action, equity, and multilevel governance (C40).
The summit underscores South Africa’s G20 presidency commitment to amplifying African urban issues on a global stage, particularly as cities play a critical role in sustainable development, economic growth, and climate resilience. Mayors stressed that local governments require access to financial resources, technology, and partnerships to implement solutions effectively and inclusively (Central News).
Sources & Accreditation:
- Urban20, “2025 – Tshwane & Johannesburg” — https://www.urban20.org/u20summit/2025-tshwane-johannesburg/
- C40, “What happened at Urban 20 in Johannesburg?” — https://www.c40.org/news/what-happened-at-urban-20-in-johannesburg/
- C40, “City Leaders Convene in Johannesburg for first-ever African Urban 20 summit” — https://www.c40.org/news/city-leaders-convene-in-johannesburg-for-first-ever-african-urban-20-summit/
- Central News Online, “Johannesburg and Tshwane Mayors Urge G20 to Hear African Cities’ Voices at U20 Summit” — https://centralnews.co.za/johannesburg-and-tshwane-mayors-urge-g20-to-hear-african-cities-voices-at-u20-summit/
