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African Leaders Push for Urban Forests to Build Resilient Cities
Policymakers, environmental experts, and urban planners from across Africa convened in Johannesburg for the 2nd African Forum on Urban Forests, focusing on the critical role of green infrastructure in shaping sustainable cities. As rapid urban expansion and climate challenges intensify, integrating urban forests into city planning has become more urgent than ever.
Johannesburg’s acting City Manager, Tshepo Makola, emphasized that urban forests are more than just aesthetic features—they are fundamental to city resilience. “With rising floods, droughts, and extreme heat, urban forests must be viewed as crucial infrastructure,” he said, calling for greater innovation, collaboration, and investment in green spaces.
Ahmadu Babagana, FAO’s Representative to South Africa, reinforced this view, explaining that urban forests contribute to cleaner air, lower temperatures, and improved public health. He stressed that these green spaces are a necessity, not a luxury, for sustainable urban development.
Also Read: The Power of Rainwater Harvesting: A Simple Step Toward Water Conservation
A key theme of the forum was securing financial backing for urban forestry projects. Discussions explored various funding options, including grants, public-private partnerships, and loan programs. Makola highlighted the long-term benefits of investing in green spaces, noting that well-maintained urban forests can enhance a city’s revenue base and financial sustainability.
Urban forests play a crucial role in reducing climate risks, acting as natural barriers against flooding, soil erosion, and rising temperatures. Babagana linked green infrastructure to broader sustainability goals, stating, “Embedding urban forests into city policies will create climate-resilient, biodiversity-rich environments.”
The forum also emphasized the need for social equity, ensuring that green spaces benefit all communities, particularly marginalized and low-income areas.
Several local projects were highlighted, demonstrating how grassroots efforts contribute to urban forestry success. Makgafela Thaba from the City of Johannesburg praised community-driven initiatives like Alexandra’s ‘Water Warriors,’ who monitor pollution and neglected parks. He also noted that while tree-planting programs have faced challenges, some residents are now actively protecting green spaces.
The forum underscored the importance of cross-sector partnerships in expanding Africa’s urban forests. Organizations such as the Centre on African Philanthropy, the Presidential Climate Commission, ICLEI Africa, and C40 were recognized for their role in promoting sustainable urban environments.
As African cities continue to grow, investing in urban forests is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Turning commitments into action will ensure that urban forests become a lasting foundation for resilient, inclusive, and sustainable African cities.
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Sourced:City Of Joburg
