G2O Summit, 2025
Johannesburg is ready to host the G20 Summit on 22–23 November, with all security and logistics finalised.
Most world leaders will attend, but US President Donald Trump will skip the event, sending Vice President JD Vance instead.
Preparations for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg are finished, with officials confirming the city is ready to host global leaders.
The summit at NASREC Expo Centre is the first G20 meeting in Africa.
Road Closures
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced the province’s readiness for the event in November. This highlighted its importance for South Africa’s global reputation.
A joint effort by the SAPS, JMPD, and Road Traffic Management Corporation has secured key routes and venues. This operation is scheduled for Saturday, 15 November 2025, from 09:00 to 13:00.
Officials are advising residents and motorists to plan their travel ahead of time and factor in extra delays. These precautions are aimed at improving public safety and reducing congestion.
Clean Up Operations
This weekend’s traffic operation comes on the heels of a broader clean-up campaign now underway across Johannesburg.
eNCA reported that recently, potholes were repaired, waste was collected, and main roads were maintained. Although many locals have praised the upgrades, some community leaders have raised concerns about the timing of these efforts.
Neeshan Bolton from Joburg Crisis Alliance said while recent infrastructure upgrades were overdue, they raise concerns about long-term viability.
He said that the swift improvements suggest these persistent problems have been resolved much earlier.
Trump Boycotts G20
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed attendance by over 30 heads of state and government. This includes leaders from China, Brazil, India, and the European Union.
Nonetheless, Trump has opted out of the summit, citing political grievances.
He stated, “I will not be going this year. It is in South Africa, and I won’t be going,” during a press briefing at the White House.
During remarks at a business forum in Miami, Trump claimed South Africa was “headed in the wrong direction.” He argued that its domestic and international policies had weakened its position among leading global economies.
According to BBC, Trump described the country as a “total disgrace”.
In response, South Africa’s foreign ministry labelled the White House’s stance as “regrettable.” Ministry spokesperson Chrispin Phiri told BBC News that the summit’s success relies on collective effort. It does not depend on the participation of any single member state.
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