Lesufi: There will be no uninterrupted water and electricity supply during G20 summit

There will be no water or electricity shortages during the G20 summit in Johannesburg later this month. That's according to Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

On Tuesday, at a media briefing Lesufi said the province was ready to host the summit, which will take place from November 22 to 23 2025.

His assurance comes as the City of Johannesburg continues to struggle with service delivery challenges, including water and electricity outages, potholes, decaying infrastructure, uncollected waste, and non-functioning streetlights and traffic signals.

The city has since intensified its service delivery operations ahead of the global event. 

While there have been visible improvements in the central business district - particularly in waste collection and general cleanliness - critics remain sceptical, arguing that the cleanup is driven solely by the G20 summit.

Lesufi said significant infrastructure upgrades, designed to be permanent, were nearing completion and aimed at delivering a seamless experience for delegates and residents alike.

He said Johannesburg Water had assured the provincial government that the city’s water supply would remain secure throughout the summit.

“This confidence is grounded in Rand Water’s confirmation of an uninterrupted bulk supply for the entire period, bolstered by our comprehensive operational plan,” Lesufi said.

“We have proactively deployed dedicated maintenance teams along key corridors, activated contingencies including battery backups and 24/7 site security, and have water tankers on standby to respond to any localised issues.”

Lesufi said a fully operational command centre with clear escalation protocols was in place to respond immediately to any disruptions.

He also confirmed that a comprehensive energy plan had been implemented to ensure an uninterrupted power supply during the summit.

“All primary electrification for key venues and corridors is complete, with final minor works on track for completion,” he said.

The plan includes high-mast solar lighting for safety and emergency generators at critical sites, including OR Tambo International Airport, the ICC, and key hotels.

“This integrated effort, in collaboration with COGTA and the Department of Infrastructure Development, not only ensures energy stability but also incorporates beautification and safety measures. Supported by Eskom, we will continue to monitor the energy supply across the province,” Lesufi said.

He added that grass cutting, litter collection, and CBD cleaning operations were well advanced.

“Illegal dumps have been cleared, and public spaces have been greened. New street furniture and bins have been installed in key areas, including the Cradle of Humankind. Streetlight rehabilitation is almost complete, enhancing safety and aesthetics.”

Recycling stations will be operational at all G20 venues, underscoring the province’s commitment to sustainability.

Lesufi said the Gauteng Disaster Management Centre had been fully activated to ensure a secure and seamless summit.

“A comprehensive multi-agency command centre has been established, integrating emergency services, law enforcement, and essential service providers for real-time coordination and rapid response,” he said.

“With personnel strategically deployed and state-of-the-art technology for monitoring and communication, the centre is prepared to manage any potential scenario - from medical emergencies and security incidents to logistical disruptions.”

He added that law enforcement agencies, including the police and metro police, would be deployed across the city to ensure safety and prevent disruptions during the high-profile meeting.

Acting Gauteng provincial police commissioner Major General Fred Kekana said police were “ready to hit the ground running and leave no stone unturned” to protect residents and international guests.

“There will always be critics, some genuine, but we listen, follow up, and analyse. The majority of citizens are comfortable with the work of the police, and we will ensure they, and our visitors, remain safe and comfortable,” Kekana said.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

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