Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has earned international recognition after “The Greening of the City of Joburg, as part of Bridging the Green Divide" initiative was named a Highly Commended Finalist in the Living Green for Health and Wellbeing category of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) World Green City Awards 2026.

Announced in Bari, Italy, the accolade places Johannesburg among the final three initiatives internationally in its category, following a rigorous assessment process. The awards recognise cities using plants, nature and innovative urban greening to create healthier, greener and more climate-resilient communities.

The recognition highlights Johannesburg's efforts to address historical inequalities in access to trees and quality green spaces. Through programmes such as the Greening Soweto Legacy Project, the City has worked to bridge this divide by planting trees, developing parks and encouraging communities to take ownership of their environment.

Paris was the Grand Winner of the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026.
MMC for Community Development Councillor Thapelo Amad said environmental equity must remain central to the City's development.

“Bridging the green divide means ensuring that where you live does not determine whether you have access to trees, parks and healthy public spaces. This international recognition celebrates Johannesburg's journey, but it also challenges us to do more. We must protect what previous generations planted while ensuring that future generations inherit a greener, healthier and more resilient city."

The recognition comes during Arbor Month, as JCPZ works to protect the existing urban forest and replenish the ageing tree canopy, which faces pressure from climate change, pests, diseases, fires, illegal removals and urbanisation.

JCPZ Managing Director Thanduxolo Mendrew said the recognition belongs to the employees, communities and partners who have contributed to the City's greening journey.

“Greening is not cosmetic. A tree, a park or a restored green space contributes to health, dignity, climate resilience, increased property value and the quality of life of communities. Johannesburg's experience shows what can be achieved when government, communities and partners work together with a shared commitment to creating a greener city."

JCPZ encourages residents, businesses, schools and other partners to plant and care for trees, while supporting eco-ownership initiatives that promote community participation in protecting green infrastructure.

As a Highly Commended Finalist, Johannesburg joins an international network of cities sharing practical knowledge on how urban greening can address climate pressures, inequality and rapid urbanisation.

17/09/2026

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