Johannesburg Struggles to Improve Despite presidential Intervention
Nearly a year after President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed concerns about the City of Johannesburg’s governance, he reports continued frustration with the city’s performance. Ramaphosa conveyed this message to African National Congress (ANC) National Executive Committee (NEC) members as the first anniversary of the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group approaches.
Presidential Working Group Launched in March 2025
In March 2025,Ramaphosa met with the Johannesburg City Council and stakeholders to address deteriorating services and infrastructure. He subsequently launched the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group with a mandate to focus on several key areas:
- Strengthening governance and financial sustainability
- Improving service delivery
- Addressing water and sanitation issues
- Improving electricity provision
- rejuvenating inner-city hubs and townships
- Revitalising cultural and heritage institutions
- Enhancing safety, law enforcement, and urban security
Ramaphosa Cites Slow Progress
Despite the working group’s efforts, Ramaphosa stated, “There has been slower-than-expected progress in the city of Johannesburg, where officials and stakeholders must improve and accelerate their co-operation to make meaningful progress in addressing citizens’ concerns.”
He urged local ANC leaders and members to prioritize governance in preparation for local government elections later in 2026. Ramaphosa emphasized the need for visible improvements, stating, “The progress we make must be seen and felt by South Africans.”
