G20 delegates and key partners gathered today at Green Point Urban Park and the Atlantic Coast under the theme “Coastal Protection and Eco-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)”, as part of South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group.

The engagement highlighted how coastal cities like Cape Town are increasingly aOected by climate change, sea-level rise, and severe storm surges, which threaten infrastructure, livelihoods, and ecosystems. The Green Point coastline served as a living case study of urban vulnerability and resilience-building through ecosystem-based approaches (EbA).

Delegates attended a briefing at the Green Point Urban Park with Alderman Jean Pierre Smith, Mayoral Committee Member Safety and Security in the City of Cape Town delivering the welcome remarks. Alderman Smith highlighted the city’s ongoing investment in infrastructure such as the Sea Point and Mouille Point promenades, which have faced the eOects of rising sea levels and severe storms. Smith emphasised the growing impact of climate change on Cape Town’s infrastructure, economy, and jobs, while also acknowledging social challenges like gang violence and unlawful land invasions that require national legislative attention.

The briefing was followed by a site visit to Mouille Point Lighthouse, where they observed shoreline erosion, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and coastal protection works. The visit also showcased ongoing DRR projects implemented by the City of Cape Town and its partners.

Participants included by NHTKL Chairperson Kgosi Seatlholo, NDMC Head, Dr Elias Sithole, representatives from national, provincial, and municipal government, the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre, South African Weather Service, NSRI, CCT Fire & Rescue, Law Enforcement, and various civil society organisations.

The engagement promoted knowledge exchange on best practices, innovation, and financing mechanisms for coastal protection, such as public-private partnerships and climate funds. It also reinforced the G20’s commitment to climate adaptation, resilient infrastructure, and risk-informed urban planning.