Morero touts Joburg's global role ahead of G20 summit
Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has called on the international community to recognise cities as key drivers of global economic growth.
Delivering his State of the City Address on Wednesday, Morero emphasised Johannesburg’s critical role in supporting South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
He said cities such as Joburg are at the forefront of innovation, partnerships, and economic opportunity.
"Cities across the world are the engines of growth. This growth is anchored through partnership, innovation, and entrepreneurship, particularly among our youth and marginalised communities,” he said.
Morero said Johannesburg’s recent hosting of major international summits, including the G20, B20, and Y20, has solidified the city’s global reputation.
"Through hosting these events, Johannesburg is now referred to as the home for ‘Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.’ We have a strong track record of hosting international mega events. Rest assured, once again, we will unite as residents of Johannesburg to make our guests feel at home.”
He said President Cyril Ramaphosa had made it clear that South Africa’s G20 Presidency presents a valuable opportunity to promote global economic growth and sustainable development, while also advocating for the interests of Africa and the broader Global South.
In support of this, Johannesburg has been tasked with co-hosting the Urban 20 Summit in September 2025, an international platform that brings together mayors from major global cities to shape inclusive urban policies.
"This momentous global event demands meticulous planning, inter-agency coordination, and operational excellence.
“Together, we can share best practices to stimulate local economies and attract sustainable investment, which in turn can help bolster our financial position,” said Morero.
“Johannesburg has a lot to offer the world.”
Morero also presented an ambitious strategy to attract international partnerships aimed at boosting job creation, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth.
He outlined several targeted investment opportunities tailored for global partners, including China, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Brazil, and Russia.
"We have industrial parks in prime areas that China can consider. For the United Kingdom, we have our Global Business Services Centre operating in Alexandra, where 90% of the workforce are young people.”
Through a partnership with the Business Process Enabling South Africa initiative, Morero said the city has trained 30% of unemployed residents in digital skills and customer service, creating career pathways for local and international job markets.
He extended an invitation to Japan, suggesting a "skills development programme focused on the maintenance and repair of minibus taxis", most of which, he noted, are Japanese-made vehicles operating in Johannesburg.
Turning to Germany, Morero highlighted major infrastructure projects where the country’s expertise and support could be instrumental.
These include the Diepsloot Sewer Pipeline and Bridge, Water Demand Management systems, and the Northern Wastewater Treatment Works.
"Germany’s development agency GIZ has already played a key role in supporting us. These projects offer opportunities to build a resilient city supported by green economy initiatives.”
Brazil was invited to support Johannesburg’s R396 million informal settlement upgrading programme, which is focused on over 20 settlements across the city, including Zandspruit, Kya Sands, Finetown, Orange Farm, Ivory Park, Lehae, Lawley, and Poortjie.
"Formalising our informal settlements helps us address issues of poverty and safety,” Morero said.
He described Johannesburg’s mining belt as the city’s defining spatial feature and outlined a R1.3 billion redevelopment plan for the area.
This includes land rehabilitation, public space upgrades, and new infrastructure.
"This investment presents an opportunity for Russia to showcase its planning and execution capabilities,” he added.
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