July 19, 2007
By JoNews Reporter
MIGRANT communities could make a significant contribution to enhancing the richness and cultural diversity of a city, Johannesburg's executive mayor, Amos Masondo, told members of the diplomatic corps on Tuesday.
The executive mayor was hosting a function for African ambassadors, high commissioners and consuls-general on 17 July. The meeting was aimed at strengthening the relationships between the City and the diplomatic corps and "further existing partnerships and solidarity with African cities".
Johannesburg has formal relationships with a number of cities across the globe, including Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, Windhoek in Namibia, Birmingham and London in the UK, and New York in the US.
According to Masondo, these agreements "are far more than mere symbolic gestures". Each involves specific co-operative projects.
For example, with Addis Ababa, the two cities are sharing information about land and housing development, while with Windhoek, five projects – involving safety, professional development, planning and infrastructure development, water reticulation and councillor development – are being developed.
The City is also developing partnerships with Matola in Mozambique, Kinshasa and Lubumbashi in Democratic Republic of the Congo, Accra in Ghana and Lusaka in Zambia.
Common interests
During the meeting, Masondo spoke on a wide range of issues of common interest, the projects arising out of formal agreements with certain cities and the sharing of information about development.
He also addressed issues of importance to Johannesburg:
- Upgrading the inner city;
- Eradicating social inequalities;
- Service delivery;
- Creating economic opportunities; and
- Tackling the complexity of the influx of migrants.
Acknowledging the influence of immigrants on the city, Masondo said, "The increasing cosmopolitan nature of the City of Johannesburg, as has been the case for many years, is a reflection of 'strength in diversity.'"
A token from Joburg: Executive Mayor Amos Masondo presents the dean of the diplomatic corps and the Libyan ambassador, Dr AA Alzubedi, with a gift
(Photo: Enoch Lehung, City of Johannesburg)
Johannesburg was intent on creating an inclusive city "where every person, regardless of race, creed or background, should feel welcome and at home", the mayor said.
The City recently set up a helpdesk for migrants offering, among other things, advice on how to access government services, assistance with economic opportunities, and supporting community networks.
Masondo also announced that the City would soon be launching a campaign against xenophobia "to ensure a better understanding of issues relating to migrants, foreign nationals and illegal immigrants".
He thanked the international community for "continuing to support us in the implementation of many economic development initiatives in our country", adding that the City was equally appreciative of the investment by the many foreign companies based in Johannesburg.
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