Johannesburg’s commitment to greening, sustainability, and inclusive public spaces has earned the city three prestigious awards from World Urban Parks 2025, reaffirming its position as a leading green city on the African continent.
Executive Mayor Cllr Sello Dada Morero congratulated Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) on the achievement, noting that the recognition comes at a pivotal time as the City intensifies its revitalisation programme for the G20 and beyond.
“This global recognition reaffirms Johannesburg’s determination to create a clean, green, and vibrant city that showcases the best of Africa to the world,” said Mayor Morero. “Our parks and open spaces are the living heart of Johannesburg — places where communities connect, nature thrives, and our shared vision for sustainability comes alive. These awards are a tribute to the City’s environmental leadership and to every employee and resident who plays a role in caring for our green heritage.”
The City, through JCPZ, received the following accolades:
1. The Best Entity Award – honouring Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo for its outstanding leadership, innovation, and environmental stewardship in the management of parks, open spaces, and biodiversity assets. This recognition reflects the entity’s unwavering commitment to restoring urban green spaces, improving access to nature, and fostering civic pride.
2. The Large Urban Parks Award – presented for the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, one of Johannesburg’s hidden gems and a prime example of ecological conservation and community participation. Spanning over 680 hectares, the reserve offers residents a tranquil retreat — a place to walk, talk, and breathe pure tranquility —while protecting indigenous flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
3. The Most Distinguished Individual Award – awarded to Bishop Ngobeli, JCPZ’s esteemed Green Ambassador, for his tireless advocacy of tree planting across South Africa and the African continent. His leadership has mobilised intergovernmental organisations and civic groups in support of urban reforestation and climate resilience, embodying the spirit of collective environmental action.
“These awards reflect the dedication and hard work of our teams and partners,” said Thanduxolo Mendrew, Managing Director of JCPZ.
“They also serve as a catalyst —inspiring our employees to continue striving for excellence and encouraging residents to participate actively in greening and revitalising our city. Together, we are cultivating a legacy of sustainability that supports the Mayor’s vision for a revitalised, world-class Johannesburg.”
World Urban Parks, the global authority on urban green space management, celebrates organisations that demonstrate innovation, inclusion, and measurable community impact.
Johannesburg’s success underscores how well-managed parks and open spaces contribute to the City’s Growth and Development Strategy 2040, strengthening resilience, promoting public health, and building social cohesion.
“This achievement not only elevates Johannesburg’s international profile but also highlights the vital role that nature plays in shaping a liveable, people-centred city.
Our parks tell the story of renewal — of a Johannesburg that’s greener, cleaner, and ready for the future,” concluded Mendrew.
SUPPLIED.
