By Doreen Mokgolo
- Johannesburg is getting fixed up to host the G20 summit in November, the first time an African country will lead the meeting.
- President Ramaphosa has created a special team to improve the city’s infrastructure and services before world leaders arrive.
Johannesburg is getting a major clean-up before hosting 60 to 80 world leaders at Africa’s first G20 Leaders’ Summit in November.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has set up a special team called the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group to fix the city’s broken infrastructure.
At a meeting with city officials at the Johannesburg Council Chambers, Ramaphosa said the city needs urgent help with its problems.
“As the largest metro in the country, responsible for 16 percent of South Africa’s GDP, the municipality currently faces enormous challenges, ranging from financial and governance instability to rapidly deteriorating infrastructure.
“Water and electricity interruptions and road infrastructure issues have had an enormous impact on the quality of life of citizens and the operations of businesses,” he said.
The working group will bring together all levels of government to improve service delivery, fix the city’s financial problems, and create jobs.
Ramaphosa wants special attention paid to fixing up the inner city, which has become run-down over the years.
“Efforts must be taken to make it liveable, thriving, and a safe space for all citizens. We must work to ensure the inner city is primed to attract new investment and jobs,” he said.
This work is part of the government’s District Development Model, which aims to get different parts of government working together more effectively.
Mayor Dada Morero promised the city would be ready for the international visitors despite its current problems.
“President, we have heard you. From now on, watch this space—we will not disappoint you,” he said.
Pictured above: President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Image source: South African Government
