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Johannesburg and Tshwane Lead U20 Initiative to Shape G20 Agenda

Published

2 weeks ago

March 5, 2025

taryn

Picture: City Of Joburg

Johannesburg and Tshwane have officially launched the 8th cycle of the Urban 20 (U20) initiative, a global platform where major cities shape discussions ahead of the G20 Summit. The summit for world leaders will also take place in Johannesburg in November 2025.

Under the theme “Cities Leading the Way in Reimagining Global Change,” this marks a significant milestone for South Africa and the African continent. As co-chairs, Johannesburg Executive Mayor Dada Morero and Tshwane Executive Mayor Nasiphi Moya will lead a coalition of cities in addressing urban challenges and advocating for sustainable solutions on the global stage.

The initiative will focus on economic opportunities, sustainable financing, social inclusion, and improved public services—critical issues amid growing concerns over climate change and rapid urbanization.

“This summit amplifies the voices of cities, particularly in Africa, as key drivers of economic resilience and global progress,” said Morero. “It allows us to showcase leadership in urban governance, climate resilience, and sustainable development.”

Johannesburg and Tshwane will now work with approximately 50 cities to develop a unified message for the G20. The impact of this U20 cycle will extend beyond the summit, influencing discussions at the UN World Social Summit in Qatar and COP30 in Brazil.

The cycle will culminate in the U20 Mayors Summit in Johannesburg from September 12-14, 2025. Leading up to the event, the cities will host a series of thematic webinars, with the first session on Digital Transformation and Innovation already streamed on February 26.