In a bold move towards addressing pressing environmental challenges, the cities of Johannesburg and Copenhagen officially launched a Strategic Sector Corporation aimed at tackling water supply, flood control, and climate change adaptation in Soweto.

?Hosted at Thokoza Park on ?Wednesday, 06 March 2024, this launch provided an opportunity for both cities to share expertise and resources to develop innovative solutions for building resilience in urban environments.

As dignitaries including Executive Mayor Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services (EISD), Cllr Jack Sekwaila and other stakeholders took part in a walkabout around Thokoza Park, they engaged in insightful dialogues, tapping into some of the Copenhagen’s experiences in climate change to address Soweto’s needs.

Cllr Gwamanda expressed gratitude for the partnership and its significance in finding solutions for challenges faced by Soweto residents. “By teaming up with Copenhagen, we can confront Soweto’s environmental challenges head-on, paving the way for a more prosperous future.

“Our partnership with Copenhagen signifies a crucial step towards building strong partnerships and promoting a socially just green transition.”

Nompumelelo Mazibuko, the Councillor for Ward 33, expressed her satisfaction with the collaboration between the two cities. “I am happy about the collaboration of the two cities and the changes underway that will develop Thokoza Park further as well as plans to alleviate flooding within Ward 33.”

Minister Rasmussen emphasised the readiness of Denmark to collaborate and assist Joburg in meeting its key performance indicators through its various entities to ensure the success of this project and provide services.

He asserted that through their developed strategies and methodologies, they can successfully roll out this project by not only sharing knowledge on water supply and flood control but also sharing its experiences with improving energy efficiency in public buildings.

Written by Gertrude Mamabolo

07/03/2024

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