By Nkhensani Chauke
The City of Joburg will host the second African Forum on Urban Forests (AFUF), a key platform for dialogue on urban greening and sustainable development in Africa.
In partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), and the Centre of African Public Spaces, the city will hold the forum from 18–21 March 2025 at The Forum, The Campus in Bryanston, with the final day taking place at Diepsloot Memorial Park.
Under the theme promoting sustainable development, growth, and environmental stewardship in Africa’s urban areas, the forum aims to foster proactive strategies for a greener future.
Joburg mayor Dada Morero said that the four-day event will include the planting and distribution of over 2,000 trees to mark the International Day of Forests, reinforcing environmental conservation efforts across the continent.
Morero also highlighted that tree planting at Diepsloot Memorial Park aligns with the national initiative to plant one million trees, as mandated by President Cyril Ramaphosa under the 10 Million Trees Programme.
The conference will be officiated by Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, alongside Morero.
“AFUF will bring together global leaders, policymakers, environmental experts, community groups, and stakeholders to engage in critical discussions on the vital role of urban forests in building resilience, sustainable, and equitable cities across Africa,” said Morero.
“AFUF aims to address the pressing challenges faced by Africa’s rapidly urbanising populations. These challenges include the compounding risks of climate change, loss of biodiversity, and the growing disparity in access to green spaces. With African cities experiencing unparalleled urban growth, the urgency of tackling environmental threats and providing equitable solutions for public health, well-being, and sustainability has never been more crucial.”
Morero emphasized that urban forests, encompassing street trees, parks, nature reserves, botanical gardens, and green spaces, offer numerous benefits beyond their aesthetic value, stating that these city assets provide essential environmental, social, and economic benefits critical for the future of cities, especially developing world.
He added that as African cities grow, urban forests are increasingly recognised for their role in mitigating climate risks such as heat islands, improving air quality, managing storm water, enhancing public health, and fostering social cohesion.
“For developing countries across Africa, urban forests are vital in combating the effects of climate change. They provide natural protection against extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to global warming,” said Morero.
“Green spaces also offer low-cost solutions to address public health challenges, such as respiratory illnesses, mental health issues, and the poor living conditions often found in rapidly urbanising areas. Furthermore, urban forests create economic opportunities by generating jobs in urban forestry, environmental management, and eco-tourism.”
“By 2050, nearly 70% of the world’s population will live in urban areas. This rapid urbanization places immense pressure on ecosystems, making integrating nature into our cities essential.”
A key highlight of the forum will be a high-level roundtable discussion featuring representatives from international and domestic development finance institutions, national governments, the private sector, and municipalities.
This session will explore strategies to unlock financial resources for urban forests and green spaces, ensuring sustainable investment in African cities.
The African Forum on Urban Forests states that the event will commence with a poignant tribute to two remarkable individuals whose enduring legacies have significantly impacted environmental advocacy and sustainable development: the late Wangari Maathai and the former City of Joburg mayor, Amos Masondo.
“Their enduring contributions will serve as a foundation for insightful discussions on the essential role of leadership in fostering resilient communities and paving the way for greener, more sustainable future,” said AFUF.
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