WATCH | How Johannesburg is showcasing the African spirit to the world | G20 Summit

As a 30-something-year-old born and bred Joburger, I had a sense of pride as I noticed a vibrant energy in the city this week as it prepared for the 2025 G20 Leaders’ Summit this weekend.

Hosted at The Nasrec Expo Centre on Saturday, November 22, and Sunday, November 23, this marks the first time a G20 summit is held on African soil. The event brings together some of the world’s most high-profile heads of state and government officials to discuss and coordinate global economic matters and other vital international issues.

The impact of the summit was already visible in Jozi days before it kicked off. Driving through the city this week, I experienced cleaner streets, an increased police presence, heavily guarded convoys in bulletproof vehicles, and noticeably improved roads.

This sentiment was echoed on social media, where Joburg content creator Kay Mahapa offered a comical but striking take on his city hosting the G20. 

In a TikTok, he explained: “What is happening in Johannesburg right now reminds me of what our parents used to tell us when we were growing up.”

He added: “They would say, ‘Leave those plates alone, that cutlery, those glasses and cups - leave them alone, they are for guests.’”

“Now the guests have arrived - the G20 countries,” Mahapa continued. “Over the years, we’ve often been denied proper service delivery because it was meant for the guests. Well, the guests are here, and Joburg is rolling out the red carpet for them. They are doing everything possible for the guests.”

He went on to highlight the city’s high security:

“I have never seen Joburg this clean in my life. The amount of police visibility right now is incredible - in malls, on highways. You can’t go anywhere without a policeman or woman nearby because they don’t want you to feel unsafe in front of visitors. It sends a very bad image if you do.”

Mahapa also joked about the city’s employees being on their best behaviour, drawing laughs online when he added: “Right now, the rule of law in Johannesburg is whatever the citizen wants, the citizen gets.”

Elsewhere online, other Joburgers joined in, poking fun at “behaving” this weekend while the guests are in town. Many expressed pride in their city hosting such an elite global gathering, while others called for consistency in policing and service delivery long after the summit concludes.

Social media is also buzzing with nostalgic clips of Joburg’s golden skyline, sunset videos, drone shots and calls for visitors to “Come see the real Jozi.” 

Artists, muralists, dancers, and local fashion designers are posting “We’re ready” content, proudly showcasing African creativity to the world.

G20 visitors can expect everything from new murals to street performances, with creators excited to gain international visibility proving that while Johannesburg prepares for global leaders, it’s doing so with unmistakable style, personality, and flair.