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I am honoured to accept the nomination of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) to serve as local government’s representative on the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) for the 2026–2030 term. I appreciate the confidence placed in me by SALGA to carry the collective voice, experience and interests of municipalities across South Africa into this important national forum.

I further acknowledge and appreciate President Cyril Ramaphosa’s confirmation of this nomination and his appointment of the new cohort of commissioners in terms of the Climate Change Act, 2024. The President’s confirmation affirms the critical role of local government in shaping and informing South Africa’s climate response and reinforces the importance of strong cooperation between national and local spheres of government.

This appointment is not a personal accolade. It reflects the growing and indispensable role that cities must play in responding to climate change. As the City of Tshwane, we confront daily the realities of climate stress, including water insecurity, extreme weather events, energy transition pressures and persistent spatial inequality. These challenges place cities at the frontline of both climate risk and innovation.

Tshwane is committed to being a leading South African city in the pursuit of resilient, inclusive and climate-responsive urban development. Our approach is grounded in practical governance, evidence and lived experience. Through this role on the Commission, I will contribute the perspective of a metropolitan government responsible for translating national policy into tangible action across communities, townships and suburbs.

The value Tshwane brings to the Commission lies in real, on-the-ground data and tested responses. Cities generate critical information on energy use, transport systems, water security, housing and economic activity. When effectively utilised, this data strengthens evidence-based policy, improves implementation and ensures that climate interventions are socially and economically responsive.

Central to this work is the just transition. For Tshwane, climate action must advance social justice, protect the most vulnerable, create work opportunities and address historic spatial and economic inequalities. Resilience must be practical and visible in the daily lives of residents.

Issued by Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya