In Memory and Momentum

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sonette Smit, who died peacefully in Cape Town in early 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Murrayfield, Pretoria, Sonette was the youngest child of 3 and daughter to Koos and Hester Smit. She received her primary education at Skuilkrans and later attended Die Wilgers High School. Her lifelong passion for landscape and the built environment led her to the University of Pretoria, where she began her studies in Landscape Architecture in 1990. She graduated in 1993 during a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history and was present at the Union Buildings in 1994, to witness the inauguration of President Nelson Mandela—an event she commemorated with characteristic enthusiasm and enterprise.

Sonette began her career as a freelance landscape architect before joining the City of Johannesburg. In 1999, she relocated to Cape Town to take up a permanent position with the City, a bold move that marked the beginning of an exceptional 25 year career in public service.

As a landscape architect within the Urban Design Branch—where she later became Principal Professional Officer—Sonette played an indispensable role in shaping some of Cape Town’s most significant public spaces. She contributed to more than 105 public environments through the Quality Public Space Programme over two decades, leaving a tangible and lasting mark on the city. Among the projects she cherished most was the upgrade of the Sea Point Promenade, on which she worked from 2009 until its recent completion. She also demonstrated remarkable dedication and perseverance in the decade long redevelopment of Kruskal Avenue in the Bellville CBD.

Her colleagues remember her not only for her technical expertise and deep institutional knowledge, but also for her generosity of spirit. She guided younger professionals, navigated complex municipal processes with grace and always kept the needs of communities at the heart of her work. She embodied the very best of public service: professionalism, compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sonette was defined by her kindness, resilience, and warm presence. She maintained a close circle of cherished friends and drew strength from her church community. She was a devoted daughter, caring for her father during his illness, and a loyal friend whose compassion touched countless lives.

Sonette will be remembered for her intellect, her passion for creating equitable and inspiring public spaces, and her charismatic optimism. She loved Cape Town deeply—its people, its landscapes, and its potential.

She is survived by her family, her devoted friends, and the many colleagues whose lives she enriched. Her legacy lives on in the public spaces she helped to shape and in the countless people she mentored, inspired, and touched with her kindness.

Written by Gerald Garner (close friend and fellow Landscape Architect) with inputs by Bobby Gould-Pratt (colleague at the Urban Design Branch: City of Cape Town)

‍

This month, we are pleased to reintroduce the African Journal of Landscape Architecture (AJLA) Directory, a dedicated platform designed to showcase landscape architects, firms, and institutions across the IFLA Africa network.

Originally launched as a free listing to encourage broad participation, the directory has grown into an important continental resource. To ensure it remains accurate, up to date, and professionally maintained, the AJLA Directory is now being relaunched with a modest annual fee structure to support its long-term sustainability.

The directory serves as more than just a listing. It is a curated space where professionals and organisations can present their work, including logos and contact details, within a respected platform. It acts as a living map of landscape architecture expertise across Africa, making it easier for collaborators, clients, researchers, and students to connect and engage.

Updated Listing Fees (effective 1 January 2026):

• New Listing: USD 30 (one-time, includes first year subscription)
• Existing Listing Extension: USD 25 (one-time)
• Annual Renewal: USD 20 per year

All listings become active upon payment, and secure payment links are available for each option.

Being part of the AJLA Directory offers valuable benefits — increased visibility within the IFLA Africa network and beyond, a strengthened professional presence, and opportunities for collaboration and exposure. In a profession built on connection and shared knowledge, visibility is key.

We encourage all members to take advantage of this opportunity and be part of a strengthened, more sustainable directory.

📩 For enquiries or submissions, please contact: ajla@iflaworld.org

Together, we continue to build a connected and thriving landscape architecture community across Africa.