Thokozile Mnguni
Gauteng MEC for Environment Ewan Botha says he will use his newly acquired international role to strengthen the province’s position as a leader in sustainability, climate finance and green investment.
This follows Botha’s election as Vice President for Africa within Regions4, a global network of subnational governments focused on advancing climate action and sustainable development.
The appointment marks the first time Gauteng has secured representation at this level within Regions4, placing the province in global climate decision-making platforms focused on resilience, sustainable development and climate finance.
Botha welcomed the appointment, describing it as both an honour and a responsibility.
“The nomination was humbling, but the vote of confidence carries a different weight. It is a mandate to act. Africa contributes minimally to global emissions, yet bears the brunt of the climate crisis. This platform must shift who shapes decisions and how they are made,” he said.
He said his tenure would focus on practical interventions aimed at unlocking climate finance, expanding access to international funding mechanisms and strengthening investment-ready projects across African regions.
A key priority of his vice presidency will be promoting innovative financing models, including blended finance and carbon markets, while advocating for subnational governments to gain direct access to global funding instruments such as the Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund and Global Environment Facility.
Botha also stressed the need for global climate frameworks to respond to local realities, particularly in communities most affected by climate change.
“There is funding. There are opportunities. Our task is to ensure we have the systems, capacity, and readiness to access them. Gauteng must position itself not only for recognition on the global stage, but for investment that transforms our economy and communities,” he said.
He further committed to strengthening cooperation between governments, communities and implementation partners, saying effective climate action depends on trust, collaboration and delivery at the local level.