Open Streets in South Africa
For more than a decade, Open Streets has moved across South Africa’s cities.

Every city is different and so Open Streets has taken many different forms with a diverse range of focus areas. Explore all the cities and their journeys below!

Open Streets in Cape Town
From 2012 to 2019 it took place in different parts of the city 4 or 5 times a year with a focus on mobility, public space and social cohesion.

Who is involved?
Since 2020 it happens on an ad hoc basis and the City is experimenting a new model of short closures which do not require an event permit.
- Photo credit: Reza Khota
- Photo credit: Richard Conyngham
- Photo credit: Richard Conyngham
- Photo credit: Richard Conyngham
- Photo credit: Richard Conyngham
- Photo credit: Marcel Duvenage
- Photo credit: Marcel Duvenage
- Photo credit: Reza Khota

Open Streets and climate action
The programme is driven by the municipality’s commitment to becoming a low-carbon city as part of its pledge to the Global Covenant of Mayors. The initiative aligns with local climate action efforts and encourages sustainable urban development.

How does it work?
It takes place annually, in June to coincide with World Environment Day, and promotes sustainable urban development by reclaiming streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and community activities.

Who is involved?
While centered around non-motorized transport (NMT), Open Streets also addresses broader goals such as improving health and well-being, fostering social cohesion, and raising awareness about environmental, safety, and social issues, including gender-based violence. It is driven by the economic development and planning departments of KwaDukuza Municipality.
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
- Photo credit: Ryan Hoffmann
A path to Open Streets
In 2013, the Transport Department of the City of Joburg launched its Streets Alive program, with a particular emphasis on road safety.

Who is involved?
Through the program, and connecting with Open Streets Cape Town, the Transport Department began organising Open Streets days in different parts of the city. Emphasising recreation and health, the department has aimed to make roads shared spaces for all.
- Photo credit: Chis Anderson
- Photo credit: City of Joburg
- Photo credit: Chis Anderson
- Photo credit: City of Joburg
- Photo credit: Chis Anderson
- Photo credit: City of Joburg
- Photo credit: Chis Anderson
- Photo credit: City of Joburg

A successful test
The eThekwini municipality began testing Open Streets initiatives in 2022. With activities including games, a cycle academy and mini pump track, the first Open Streets day was a success.

Who is involved?
The initiative is run by the municipality’s Transport Authority. Active mobility – particularly encouraging walking and cycling – is a key objective of the program. The City aims to continue building out these initiatives in the coming years.
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality
- Photo credit: eThekwini Municipality