Johannesburg is buzzing. Streets have been rejuvenated, buildings refurbished, hotels are filling up by the hour, and OR Tambo International Airport is experiencing one of its busiest weeks of the year. With global leaders landing in South Africa for the G20 Summit, the city has transformed almost overnight, but many South Africans still aren’t sure what the event it, why it matters, or how it will impact their daily lives.
What exactly is the G20?
The G20 is a group of the world’s largest countries whose decisions shape global trade, investment jobs, climate action and financial stability. South Africa is the only African country represented, and when the world meets here, it brings major political and economic attention to our doorstep.
Why hosting the G20 matters for South Africa
For Joburg and the country at large, hosting this event is more than a diplomatic moment. It means a surge in tourism spending, increased bookings for hotels, restaurants and transport, more increased temporary jobs, global exposure for local businesses, investment opportunities and economic partnerships, a chance to position Joburg as Africa’s economic centre.
This is South Africa’s moment to showcase itself to the world and most importantly what it means to be a rainbow nation.
Who’s coming and who’s not
While the G20 usually brings full gathering of world leaders, this year’s attendance list looks different.
The United States government will not send its president. Russia will be represented by Maxim Oreshkin, the Deputy Chief to Staff of the Presidential Executive Office. China will send Li Qiang, the country’s second in command, making him the highest-ranking attendee at the summit. Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum will not attend, choosing to remain in her country.
Despite these absences, South Africa will still host delegations from major global economies, along with ministers, diplomats, and international media, keeping the global spotlight firmly on Johannesburg. French president Emmanuel Macron, EU chief Ursula von der Leyden, Australia’s Anthony Albanese, Canada’s prime minister Mark Carney and Brazil’s president Luis Lula da Silva are just some of the world leaders arriving in the country this week.
In total, 42 countries are confirmed for participation at various levels. This includes twenty G20 members (excluding the United States), 16 guest countries and six countries representing regional economic communities in Africa, the Caribbean and East Asia.
The cost of hosting that is felt on the ground
While the excitement is building up, so are the prices, and our pockets are feeling this one. Accommodation across Joburg especially in areas like Sandton, Randburg, and Rosebank has seen significant spikes, with some hotels charging up to R16 000 per night during the summit. Many establishments like the Park Hyatt are fully booked for the remainder of the week.
At OR Tambo, airport staff say the traffic buildup is unlike anything they’ve seen in recent months, with increased security checks, packed arrival halls and longer waiting times.
Road closures: What Joburg residents need to know
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), residents across Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni should expect major rolling roads closures as G20 convoys move through the cities.
When a convoy is on the move, roads will be completely shut down, limiting movement for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. Each closure expected to last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and security needs.
The RTCM confirmed that these rolling closures will take place on Saturday, 22 November, and Sunday, 23 November, during two peak time blocks.
· Morning: 07:00 – 10:00
· Evening: 17:00 – 20:00
Roads will reopen as soon as each convoy passes, but residents are urged to plan for delays, avoid affected routes, and allow extra travel time throughout the weekend. This operation forms part of heightened security measures as Joburg hosts world leaders and high – level delegations for the G20 Summit.
Joburg gets a makeover
Ahead of the summit, the City of Johannesburg has rolled out an intensive cleaning and beautification programme. This includes pothole repairs, street sweeping, garbage removal, restoring city landmarks, and art installations across the CBD.
The mayor’s “clean-up campaigns” have sparked mixed reactions, some residents welcome the facelift, while others question why basic services only improve when visitors arrive.
Joburg at the centre of the world
This week isn’t ordinary, Joburg is hosting the world. While the disruptions may be frustrating, the G20 brings opportunities that could shape South Africa’s economic future for years to come.
- This story was produced by Our City News, a non-profit newsroom that serves the people of Johannesburg.
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