Joburg Cityzens for Clean Air

Project Summary

The Joburg Cityzens for Clean Air Project seeks to build on the proven success of the UrbanBetter Cityzens Hub and the Precision Advocacy Model to empower young people in Johannesburg to use citizen science to collect air quality data and advocate for cleaner, healthier urban environments.

The project has established the Johannesburg Cityzens Hub (based within SAIIA) as a central space for youth engagement, training, and green work experience, drawing on successful models from Lagos, Accra, and Nairobi.

Through this hub, young people will be equipped are being equipped with the tools and skills to collect data, analyze findings, and advocate for change in their communities. To date, 8 run leaders have been appointed, and have already delivered a number of activations across the City. One of the major milestones that has been delivered by the Hub has been the tracking of the Soweto Marathon route during the race that took place in November 2025.