City of Tshwane and City of Johannesburg mayors Nasiphi Moya and Dada Morero, respectively, have expressed confidence in the state of the cities ahead of the Urban 20 Sherpa Meeting and African Mayors Assembly.
Speaking at a briefing at Tshwane House on Monday, Moya said the capital city will keep on improving but assured that it was ready for the events ahead.
Guests will be granted an opportunity to visit landmarks such as Union Buildings, Dinokeng Game Reserve, and Freedom Park.
“We are doing more to make sure that we are proud of these homes that are our cities, but it does not mean that we are going to hide ourselves, and we will hide our homes from the world.
“So, from where I stand, there is a lot of work that we need to do in both our cities to make sure our cities are homes our residents are proud of… This is a home with a history that spans over 160 years in the city of Tshwane in particular,” said Moya.
Moya said Tshwane has made history by hosting these events on African soil.
The summit, co-hosted with Johannesburg, brings together 96 representatives, known as Sherpas, from U20 cities around the world.
Sherpas to draft key policy proposals
She said over the next two days, these Sherpas will draft key policy proposals to be presented at the G20.
“Across South Africa and around the world, cities are grappling with the interconnected challenges of climate change, inequality, and economic strain. These pressures require more than conversation. They call for coordination, commitment, and action. Today, not tomorrow,” said Moya.
“By hosting the U20 Sherpa Meeting and the African Mayor’s Assembly, we are ensuring that Africa’s voice is not only present but actively shaping the G20 agenda at the highest level,” said Moya.
She said a key feature of the summit is the first African Mayors Assembly, which will highlight regional priorities such as climate adaptation and equitable service delivery.
She described the assembly as a powerful platform and underscored the importance of cities in delivering practical solutions.
Moya said Tshwane is leading by example through investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, pro-poor economic policies, and youth development initiatives.
She made an example of the U20 Schools Legacy Programme, which launches this week at Groenkloof Nature Reserve. It aims to provide long-term skills and career opportunities for young people in business, tourism, and sustainability.
“Tshwane is ready. Our infrastructure is in place. Our people are proud and prepared, and our commitment to this shared journey is unwavering,” said Moya.
