Unisa, the only university in the country to bear South Africa’s name, reaffirmed its position as a key civic and strategic partner by hosting the City of Tshwane’s 2026 State of the Capital Address (SoCA). Held at the university’s Muckleneuk Campus in Tshwane on 16 April 2026, the address was guided by the theme From recovery to renewal – A better Tshwane for all.

The event attracted a diverse audience, including councillors, dignitaries, traditional leaders,  mayoral committee members, political party leaders, senior city officials, business leaders, members of the diplomatic corps and media representatives. Their presence reflected the coalition partnerships and collaborative governance that underpin the City of Tshwane.

Cultural performances by the Community Safety Choir enriched the programme, adding a ceremonial and community-centred dimension to the occasion. As a flagship event on the municipal calendar, SoCA provides an opportunity to reflect on developmental progress, assess achievements and outline strategic priorities for the year ahead.

Delivered by Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, the address reviewed the municipality’s performance over the past year and outlined priorities for service delivery, infrastructure development and sustainable growth. It also underscored the importance of collaboration between government, academia and the broader community in addressing urban challenges.

Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya, delivering the 2026 State of the Capital Address

"We extend our sincere appreciation to Unisa for hosting this address, and to Gautrain for their support," said Moya. She also reflected on the 70^th anniversary of the historic Women’s March in Tshwane in 1956, when 20 000 women stood against injustice. "Their legacy calls on us to confront persistent inequalities and renew our commitment to addressing them with urgency and purpose," she noted.

Moya further emphasised that she delivered the address on behalf of a multiparty coalition government comprising the ANC, EFF, ActionSA, AIC, DOP, PA, ATM, PAC, COPE, IFP and GOOD. She described the coalition as one that brings together diverse ideologies and perspectives, united by a shared commitment to improving residents’ lives and restoring trust in the city.

Strength of collaboration to drive lasting impact

Moya highlighted that although coalitions are often associated with instability, this partnership demonstrates that collaboration in the public interest is both possible and necessary. She acknowledged the challenges but emphasised that a shared responsibility for delivering services has kept the coalition united.

"Our responsibility has been to stabilise the city so that it can meet its constitutional mandate and deliver consistently to residents," she said. "Today, we reflect on the progress made over the past 18 months and the work that remains."

She remarked on the city’s commitment to building a capable administration that pays its bills, delivers services and puts people first. According to Moya, this work is guided by six interconnected priorities, with financial stability forming the foundation.

"A growing economy strengthens that foundation by expanding revenue and creating opportunities," she explained. "This growth depends on well-maintained infrastructure and a city that is safe, clean and functional in the daily experience of its residents."

Moya added that social services play a critical role in supporting vulnerable communities and ensuring no one is left behind. These efforts are underpinned by strong governance and responsive customer care, enabling residents to experience tangible improvements in their daily lives.

"Together, these priorities reinforce one another to move Tshwane forward in a balanced and sustainable way," she said. "Through them, we are building a stronger, more inclusive city with greater opportunity for all."

She stressed that the address was not only directed at the Tshwane City Council but at all residents of Tshwane. "If we do not work in partnership, we risk losing what makes this city function: the relationships built within communities, shared spaces and institutions," she said.

The role of higher education in shaping Tshwane’s future

Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Puleng LenkaBula, emphasised the critical role of strategic collaboration in driving societal impact.

"We are honoured to serve as a resource for the city, the state and society at large," she said. "As an African university shaping futures in the service of humanity, we are committed to partnerships that advance innovation, development and social impact."

Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Puleng LenkaBula, during the City of Tshwane’s 2026 State of the Capital Address

LenkaBula noted that the collaboration between Unisa and the City of Tshwane reflects a shared vision of building an innovation-driven and inclusive capital city. She highlighted the university’s role as a hub for thought leadership and meaningful dialogue.

"Our vision positions us as a university of choice, recognised for our convening power in bringing together conversations that matter," she said. "We also rely on the surrounding Tshwane community to engage in academic and research work that delivers solutions for future generations."

She outlined key research areas at Unisa, including education, water, gender equality, technology, sustainable human settlements, economic development and climate change. These efforts, she explained, contribute to improving the quality of life for nearly four million residents in the capital.

"The partnership between Unisa and Tshwane reflects a shared understanding of the opportunities presented by the knowledge economy and its potential to transform lives," she added.

Beyond hosting the event, Unisa aims to advance opportunities across key economic sectors, including automotive and components, manufacturing, research and development, aerospace and defence, financial services, government services and agriculture.

* By Lesego Chiloane, Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement

** Photography by Shooheima Champion, Multimedia Centre