World leaders, ministers, and international organisations are expected – though not all will make an appearance. This landmark event puts Joburg in the global spotlight as officials gather to tackle big-ticket topics like economic growth, trade, and sustainable development. And as city authorities rush to spruce things up at the last minute, residents have voiced mixed reactions: Daily Maverick calls it "putting lipstick on a pothole".
For locals and businesses, the Summit is more than just a VIP guest list. Heavy congestion, temporary disruptions and road closures, heightened security, and plenty of blue-light cavalcades are likely to affect daily life, with a high-impact window expected until Mon, Nov 24, 2025.
Exciting for some, frustrating for others – and almost certainly a challenge for your daily commute. Here’s what you need to know to navigate it all.
1. Expect the blue lights
Police and emergency services will be highly visible, especially around Nasrec, major hotels, and transport corridors. Security measures include roadblocks, controlled access points, and 24/7 CCTV monitoring. They are there to keep things running smoothly, so have your ID or driver’s licence handy, make sure your traffic fines are paid up, and follow instructions with a smile.
2. Avoid roadblocks
Traffic will be a bit of a maze, with temporary closures and lane restrictions affecting major Gauteng routes, including the N1, N3, N12, Jan Smuts Avenue, Rivonia Road, and Nasrec Road. If travelling between key nodes such as the airport and Sandton, consider the Gautrain or alternate routes to avoid congestion. Get the full list of affected routes and road networks here, and follow City of Joburg updates for real-time information.3. Plan like a pro
If you’re running a business, schedule adjustments and early communication can help ensure smooth operations. Hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors are already feeling increased demand from delegates, media, and visitors. On the plus side: It’s a good week for Joburg’s hospitality and retail scene. Get ready to shine.
4. Stay safe in Rosebank
Rosebank will be a hotspot during the summit. Security patrols, tactical units, and Tourism Ambassadors will be on standby to assist visitors. Stay alert, cooperate with security, and report anything unusual to the Rosebank Control Room on +27 83 633 1847.
5. Be informed
Use Google Maps, Waze, or local traffic radio updates to keep up with changing routes. Plans can change quickly with VIP convoys on the move.
6. Enjoy the spotlight
Sure, there’ll be roadblocks and extra security – but it’s not every day Joburg hosts the world’s power players. Take it as your cue to explore the city, grab a coffee, and enjoy the energy. After all, the world’s eyes are on us, let’s give them something to look at.
Joburg's time to shine
In preparation for the Summit, Joburg is getting a slight pre-G20 glow-up. Artist James Delaney has transformed Gillooly’s Interchange into a mini safari in the sky, installing 80 soaring egrets and five zebras that now glide above the traffic like the city’s most elegant congestion distraction. It’s all part of the Jozi My Jozi mission to help revitalise Joburg’s gateways.
The city also prepares to host an expected 5,000 people at G20 Social Summit from Tue, Nov 18 – Thu, Nov 20, 2025 at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni. Adding to the city’s spirit of renewal and global engagement, Constitution Hill hosts We, the 99%: People’s Summit for Global Economic Justice from Thu, Nov 20 – Sat, Nov 22, 2025, a three-day gathering bringing together global voices to imagine a fairer, more equitable world with workshops, dialogues and a music festival. For more information and to get tickets, visit here.
On Fri, Nov 21, Women for Change SA calls on South African women and members of the LGBTQI+ community to take part in a national act of silence, withdrawing from all paid and unpaid work and spending no money to highlight the economic and social impact of gender-based violence. For more information and how to participate, visit here.
The momentum continues on Sun, Dec 14, 2025, when Young Urbanists x Jozi My Jozi turn Main Street in the Joburg CBD into a car-free playground with space for walking, cycling, skating, and a rare chance to experience the city at a slower, more kid-friendly pace.
A quick primer: G20 FAQs
Now that you know how to weather the G20, here's the TLDR for what this Summit is all about.
What is the G20?
The G20, or Group of Twenty, is an annual international forum that brings together global leaders to address pressing challenges and promote economic cooperation. It was formed in 1999, following the 1997 Asian financial crisis, to prevent regional economic turmoil from triggering a global meltdown.
Which countries are members of the G20?
The G20 includes 19 countries – Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, and the US – plus the European Union and, since 2023, the African Union. Together, these members represent 85% of global GDP and two-thirds of the world’s population. If you are wondering why the maths doesn't add up – The G20 is called the G20 because its name reflects the 19 member countries plus the European Union, which together make up the Group of Twenty. In 2023, the African Union was also admitted as a permanent member, but the official name, “Group of Twenty,” has been kept.
Disclaimer: Not all member states’ leaders will attend the 2025 summit in South Africa. For example:
– The United States has announced that no senior U.S. officials will attend, following orders from President Trump.
– Russia’s President Vladimir Putin will not travel to Johannesburg for the summit, sending deputy chief of staff Maxim Oreshkin instead.
– China's president, Xi Jinping, won't be attending. Instead, his second in command, Li Qiang, will take his place.
– President Javier Milei of Argentina is boycotting the event in support of President Trump.
These absences could have symbolic and political significance, even if some countries are still represented at other levels.
What is the theme and focus of the summit?
The theme for 2025 is “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” Key priorities include: inclusive economic growth and employment, food security, and artificial intelligence and innovation for sustainable development. For more information about the G20 Summit in South Africa, read here.
Comments