Joburg to host 2nd African Forum on Urban Forests

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