South Africa: Lessons From South Africa On How Parks and Community Gardens Can Help Cities Adapt to Climate Change

What the report says

AllAfrica republished a Conversation Africa analysis dated 26 July 2026 in which University of Pretoria scholars Jan Hugo, Chrisna du Plessis and Karina Landman argue that urban parks, squares and community gardens should be treated as part of cities’ climate adaptation systems. The authors say climate change is placing growing pressure on cities, particularly in fast-growing parts of sub-Saharan Africa, and that adaptation depends not only on roads, pipes and flood defences but also on social infrastructure that helps residents organise and respond.

The article draws on the researchers’ study of three public spaces in Tshwane, South Africa’s fourth-largest city by population. They examined Moja Gabedi, a former illegal dumping site turned food garden and therapeutic space; Muckleneuk Commons, a small commuter-oriented community park; and Burgers Park, a municipal park dating to 1874. The study found that green public spaces can cool local areas, reduce flood risks and also support food security, social services and community connection.

Moja Gabedi was highlighted as a rehabilitated site where urban farming introduced in 2020 now produces crops and supports a transitional shelter for people recovering from drug addiction who had previously been homeless. Muckleneuk Commons was described as a designed rest point with a drinking fountain, gathering area, sculpture and indigenous garden. Burgers Park remains an important refuge, including for unhoused people, though the authors found community involvement and social support activity there could be stronger.

The authors’ central conclusion is that public spaces work best for climate resilience when they are created with local communities rather than simply delivered to them. They argue that local champions, shared responsibility and ongoing collaboration can help green spaces adjust as climate risks and neighbourhood needs change.