About Tshwane

Tshwane is a metropolis and was established on 5 December 2000 in terms of the new local government structure. Since it incorporates Pretoria, Tshwane is now the seat of government administration and the capital of South Africa. It is also one of the host cities for the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 and the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

The charm of this progressive city lies in its harmonious blend of African roots and European traditions. Here history meets 21st century style and development, and vibrant township scenes complement modern shopping centres.

Tshwane is a proud city, rich in culture and diversity and as beautiful as it is welcoming. No visit to South Africa would be complete without a visit to Tshwane!

Fast facts

Province:	Gauteng
Area:	2 198 km2 (about 65 x 50 km)
Population:	2.34 million (about ten inhabitants per hectare)
Language:	The most common home language is Sepedi, followed by Afrikaans, Setswana, Xitsonga, isiZulu and English.
Time zone:	GMT +2
Climate:	Moderate with hot summers and mild winters (June/July). Average temperatures for June (Confederations Cup and FIFA World Cup™ month) 4 °C (min) to 20 °C (max). Rainfall occurs mainly during the summer (November to February).
Industry:	The large automotive cluster is a key economic driver. Various other industries.
Education facilities:	Numerous tertiary institutions and research organisations. Has the highest average education level in the country.
Other:	Administrative capital

Interesting facts:

Home to the second largest number of embassies in the world (after Washington DC)
The main street, Church Street, is the longest urban street in South Africa and one of the longest straight streets in the world.
Many streets are lined with Jacaranda trees that blossom mauve (purplish blue) in spring, giving rise to the city's nickname, "Jacaranda City".

City of Champions

History

union-buildings-pretoria-saf160 The Ndebele people were the first people to settle along the Tshwane River, which was named after Chief Tshwane, a Ndebele chief.