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U202025

  • Welcome to U20 2025,

    hosted by the Cities of
    Johannesburg and 
    Tshwane.

  • A new era for African 

    urban leadership. 

  • Cities leading the way in reimagining global change.   

  • Cities driving digital transformation and innovation.



  • Amplifying African voices to influence the global agenda.




2025 Urban 20 Mayoral Summit
​12-14 September 2025 | Sandton, City of Johannesburg, South Africa

The City of Johannesburg, affectionately known as Jozi, Joburg, Egoli, or the City of Gold, is poised to host the prestigious 2025 Urban 20 [U20] Mayoral Summit from Friday, 12 to Sunday, 14 September 2025. This important gathering will convene mayors, city leaders, and policymakers from across the globe in a collaborative pursuit of innovative solutions and best practices.


Under the compelling theme, 'Cities leading the way in reimagining global change,' the Summit's meticulously curated programme will delve into critical urban priorities:
  • Economic Opportunities and Finance
  • Climate Action and Urban Resilience
  • Social Inclusion and Equity
  • Digital Transformation

Hosted in Sandton, Johannesburg’s vibrant economic powerhouse and a nexus for finance, ICT, creative arts, and urban development, this dialogue is set to forge a sustainable legacy for urban communities worldwide.

We eagerly anticipate welcoming delegates to our dynamic City of Gold

 

A new era 

​for African urban leadership.


The Cities of Johannesburg and Tshwane are two of South Africa’s most dynamic and forward-thinking metropolises, have been appointed as the Co-Chairs of the Urban 20 (U20) for the 2025 cycle, following the handover from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo in November 2024.

This historic appointment marks a significant milestone not only for South Africa but for the entire African continent. As Co-Chairs, Tshwane and Johannesburg will lead a global coalition of cities in addressing pressing urban challenges, fostering sustainable development, and amplifying the voice of African cities on the world stage.   

Under the theme Cities Leading the Way in Reimagining Global Change, Tshwane and Johannesburg will champion innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to redefine how cities respond to global challenges. This theme reflects their commitment to driving transformative change, not only within their own borders but across the globe, by leveraging the power of urban innovation and collaboration.


What we plan to achieve:

U20 2025 Key Priorities.

Economic opportunities and Financing

We must create pathways for economic opportunities and financing that are accessible to all.

Climate Action and Urban Resilience

The impacts of climate change are increasingly evident, and our cities must be at the forefront of the responses. 


Social Inclusion and Equity

A thriving city is one where every resident, especially the most vulnerable,  feels valued and has equal access to opportunities.

Digital Trans-formation and Innovation

As we embrace the digital age, we must leverage technology to improve governance and service delivery.

U20 2025 Theme:
Cities leading the way in reimagining global change.

  • Reimagining Urban Governance: By fostering innovative policies and practices that prioritise innovation, inclusivity, transparency, and sustainability.  
  • Reimagining Climate Action: By leading the charge in developing resilient, low-carbon cities that can withstand the impacts of climate change.   
  • Reimagining Economic Systems: By creating inclusive economies that empower all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.   
  • Reimagining Global Collaboration: By building bridges between cities, nations, and stakeholders to address shared challenges and opportunities.