Cape Town's Albert Ferreira is appointed as first Chief Heat Officer
(The Post News) – The City of Cape Town is the first South African city with a Chief Heat Officer. This appointment was a move triggered by the ever-rising temperatures caused by climate change. Albert Ferreira presently manages Resilience and Climate Change. He has been appointed as Cape Town’s inaugural Chief Heat Officer.
Ferreira is obligated to guiding public education campaigns and heat mitigation programs.
Extreme Heat Wave Takes Over Cape Town
Ferreira stated: “As Africans, we are used to hot temperatures. We often underestimate the dangers of extreme heat events. Especially because it affects the most vulnerable and outdoor workers.”
This appointment’s foundation is built on Cape Town City’s Beat the Heat Program which was first introduced last year, 2024.
The program’s main focus is based on communities prone or exposed to high weather temperatures. The cities vulnerable to such include Dunoon, Joe Slovo, Atlantis, Mamre and Sir Lowry’s Pass Village.
The initiative is part of the broader Heat Action Plan. It was developed in collaboration with various departments. These include Risk and Resilience, Environmental Management, and Disaster Risk Management.
The Climate Change Action Plan’s focus is to combat climate hazards like flooding, storms, drought, fires..etc..
Ferreira further stated: “The specific focus on extreme heat as a growing public health and urban planning challenges highlights that need to be treated with same sense of urgency as other hazards.”
Cape Town City joined the International City Champions for Heat Action (CCHA) initiative in 2024. Purpose was to strengthen local and global collaboration on heat risk management.
Ferreira Places Cape Town “On The Map”
Cape Town is one of the three South African Cities to join and join an international network. Alongside Kisumu County, Freetown.
Athens, Melbourne, Dhaka North, Monterry , Satiago and Miami-Dade County are also included cities.
Morgan explained that: “Ferreira’s appointment is part of this international membership. He joins other Chief Heat Officers across the globe.”
Facilitated by the CCHA and the Climate Resilience Center, Geordin Hill-Lewis (Cape Town Mayor), joined other global mayors in the endorsement of the UN call.
This was to pledge the city’s commitment to proactive heat management and community protection.
During this summer, The City of Cape Town urges everyone to follow these simple tips to stay safe during hot conditions:
Stay hydrated, seek shade, dress appropriately, avoid peak heat and being aware of warning signs.
“Treating heat as a very serious climate hazard entails protecting our city to protect lives and livelihoods.” Ferreira explained.
About the Author
Discover more from The Post News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
