KwaDukuza triumphs as the national WWF One Planet City Challenge winner

KwaDukuza (formerly known as Stanger), a local municipality in northern KwaZulu-Natal, was selected as the winner, beating seven other entries, four of which were major cities.

Globally, over 250 cities from 53 countries joined WWF’s One Planet City Challenge by diligently reporting comprehensive climate data through the Global Compact of Mayor’s Unified Reporting System hosted by CDP and ICLEI.

The international jury was particularly impressed given the town’s historically disadvantaged urban context and ambitious climate actions. Stated in a press release from WWF earlier this week, KwaDukuza was recognised as a “high performer across all categories”. They further impressed the jury by including a comprehensive group of relevant stakeholders when developing their climate plans. Read the full press release.

Using the GreenClimateCities (GCC) methodology, the KwaDukuza showcased the importance of adopting a holistic approach when integrating ambitious climate actions into the municipality’s existing plans, policies and strategies. One noteworthy example is the municipality’s Low Emissions Development Strategy developed through the Urban-LEDS project.

KwaDukuza is proof that municipalities, no matter the extent of the municipal area and their historical background, need to take urgent and ambitious climate action to contribute to the global goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. They set an example for other African cities committed to combating climate change and its impacts.

“We at ICLEI Africa send hearty congratulations to KwaDukuza District Municipality on being named as a national winner of the One Planet City Challenge. With partners such as WWF, ICLEI Africa has been working with Kwadukuza for many years on their climate change plans and actions. KwaDukuza is a climate change leader, not only in South Africa, but globally, and this award is thoroughly deserved.” Dr Meggan Spires, Senior Manager: Climate Change, Energy and Resilience, ICLEI Africa

For practical ways that all cities can limit their contribution to climate change, click here for 10 Tips for African cities to help limit global warming to 1.5°C.