JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Provincial Government says it is ready to host the upcoming G20 Leadership Summit and its related events, with infrastructure upgrades, security deployments, and coordination between government entities all in place.
Spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga says the province is prepared to deliver a safe and professional summit experience.
“We’ve resurfaced roads, fixed traffic signals, and repaired streetlights to ensure visibility. The SAPS has also reported to us that security deployments have been made and that we are ready in that regard as well.”
In just a week, Gauteng will host the G20 Social Summit from 18 to 20 November at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni.
The event brings together civil society, grassroots organisations, and community representatives to discuss global challenges and ensure ordinary voices are heard at the main summit.
The G20 Leaders Summit will take place from 22 to 23 November at the Nasrec Expo Centre. This gathering of leaders from the world’s largest economies is the first G20 Summit to be held in South Africa and on the African continent.
Mhlanga says coordination in the run-up to these events has been one of the biggest challenges. “The Premier has convened weekly meetings with MECs and mayors of all our municipalities in the province, and also the CEOs of entities such as the Johannesburg Roads Agency, SANRAL, City Power, and all other agencies responsible for service delivery.”
He says vandalism remains a concern. “We are investing millions to upgrade public infrastructure. Criminals are vandalising and causing problems, but the security people are dealing with that… We are trying to fix the province, not just for G20, but beyond… so we appeal to members of the public to continue to take good care of this infrastructure.”
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Inside Nasrec, preparations are on schedule. Mhlanga was tight-lipped on the details due to security sensitivities but confirmed that access to the venue is strictly monitored, with only authorised personnel allowed. “It has now been handed over to the government. It's no longer Nasrec, the expo centre that you know - it's now a venue for hosting the G20. There's a lot of work taking place there… Other things we will not talk about. It's a sensitive environment under high security.”
Authorities have warned Johannesburg residents to expect traffic disruptions near Nasrec and other key routes. “There will be disruptions… Some roads will not be accessible. We will alert members of the public where that is taking place,” explained Mhlanga.
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Security has been tightened across airports and other ports of entry. Mhlanga says law enforcement visibility will be increased to ensure safety for delegates and visitors. He urged travellers to use certified transport and remain vigilant.
Despite tensions surrounding the US boycott, South African officials say their focus remains on delivering a professional and impactful summit.
eNCA reporter, Aviwe Mtila, brings you the full story.