Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africa is entering the final stretch of preparations as the country gets ready to host the first G20 Leaders’ Summit ever held on African soil. The landmark gathering, scheduled for 22 and 23 November at the Nasrec Expo Centre, marks the culmination of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, which began on 1 December 2024 and concludes at the end of this month.
According to government briefings, South Africa has already completed 130 of the 133 official meetings required under its Presidency, setting the stage for the arrival of heads of state, ministers, global agencies and industry leaders from the world’s most influential economies. The accreditation centre for delegates is located at the FNB Stadium precinct, which serves as the security-controlled gateway into the Summit venue.
Security operations have now moved into an intensive phase. The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure has instituted a “soft lockdown” around Nasrec, with a full “hard lockdown” coming into effect from 21 to 24 November. Only accredited individuals and pre-inspected vehicles will be permitted within the controlled zone. Authorities have also confirmed a coordinated traffic plan, with road closures expected across Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni. The Road Traffic Management Corporation, Gauteng Traffic Police and the South African Police Service will jointly manage mobility and public compliance during the Summit.
The global context in which the Summit takes place adds further weight to the moment. With ongoing international conflicts – including the war in Ukraine and tensions in Gaza – South Africa has positioned its Presidency around the revival of multilateral cooperation, climate justice, and the transition to low-carbon and digital economies. Issues such as artificial intelligence governance and the emerging challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution are also set to feature prominently on the agenda.
Hosting the G20 on African soil for the first time has been described by government officials as a historic opportunity to showcase the continent’s leadership, development priorities and economic potential on a global stage. The Presidency has stressed that South Africa’s role is not only symbolic, but substantive, given the country’s longstanding advocacy for fairer global financial systems, inclusive growth and reform of international institutions.
Following the conclusion of the Summit and South Africa’s term as Chair, the G20 Presidency will pass to the United States in 2026.
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