Clean air starts with informed leaders who can turn knowledge into action in their communities. On 15 November 2025, the Azania-Afrika Initiative, in partnership with Seriti Institute and Breathe Cities, hosted a capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening community leadership on air pollution and its health impacts in Johannesburg.
The workshop brought together ward councillors, worker leaders, and community representatives to explore how air pollution affects vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. Participants engaged in interactive sessions that translated the City of Johannesburg’s Air Quality Management Plan into practical actions that can be implemented at the ward and community levels.
The campaign achieved strong momentum for local advocacy, with all participating ward councillors committing to include air quality awareness in their monthly community meetings. Supported by youth participants acting as “Data Champions,” the initiative helped strengthen community-driven efforts to promote cleaner and healthier air across Johannesburg.
