Under the leadership of Premier Panyaza Lesufi, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) reaffirmed its focus on economic growth, crime prevention, ethical governance, and infrastructure upgrades during its quarterly briefing on 22 May 2025. As the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) nears its first anniversary, it continues to push forward with key programmes that directly impact the lives of Gauteng residents.
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Driving Economic Growth Through Jobs and Investment
At the recent Gauteng Investment Conference, the province secured R320 billion in pledges—a major win for economic development. These investments will translate into job opportunities, driven by initiatives like Nasi iSpani and iCrush no’Lova, which aim to equip and place over 40,000 unemployed youth (NEETs) in the workforce or support them in starting their own businesses. The GPG plans to officially launch a revamped partnership with the Departments of Labour and Higher Education in June 2025.
Gauteng also struck a landmark international deal with China’s Hunan Province, unlocking new export markets for local SMMEs. Products like rooibos, moringa, biltong, wine, and nuts will now reach more than 66 million consumers across 13 Hunan cities. This bold move strengthens Gauteng’s export potential and opens lucrative doors for local entrepreneurs.
Tackling Crime Head-On
Premier Lesufi’s administration has taken aggressive steps to reduce crime. Law enforcement arrested two major cash-in-transit kingpins and apprehended over 150 high-priority criminals from a list of 450. These breakthroughs reflect the success of intelligence-led policing strategies.
While the province reports fewer cash-in-transit heists and kidnappings, gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide remain pressing concerns. To combat this, officials will intensify operations, including targeted actions in Ekurhuleni.
Raising the Bar on Ethics and Governance
The second Gauteng State of Ethics Report, issued by the Gauteng Ethics Advisory Council (GEAC), highlights progress in governance. Nearly 98% of Gauteng’s 750 senior managers have completed or are undergoing lifestyle audits and financial disclosure checks.
Still, challenges remain. The province continues to confront unethical practices, such as officials doing business with the state. In response, a dedicated committee is now overseeing the implementation of GEAC recommendations. Premier Lesufi also assigned three MECs to monitor progress and ensure accountability.
Upgrading Roads and Revitalising Cities
Only 35% of Gauteng’s 5,400 km road network remains in good condition. To address this, the province allocated R1.5 billion for urgent road repairs. It also brought in the CSIR to map potholes and improve long-term maintenance.
New agency agreements will allow Johannesburg and Tshwane to manage provincial streetlights, and R350 million will be used to fix the backlog of faulty traffic signals.
In Johannesburg, officials are reclaiming the CBD. They’ve already repossessed 12 illegally occupied buildings, with more operations planned. The Khampepe Commission will submit its final report on building hijackings by June 2025, guiding future interventions.
Meanwhile, the province has revived the Kopanong Precinct Project to centralise government offices and reduce spending on rented spaces—another step in Johannesburg’s urban renewal.
Reforming the Justice System and Cutting Costs
The judiciary is also evolving. Judge President Dunstan Mlambo issued a directive promoting mediation over lengthy trials. As a result, 85% of civil cases now settle on the day of trial, saving costs and reducing court backlogs.
Celebrating Local Sporting Champions
Premier Lesufi also praised Gauteng’s recent sporting successes. The SA Under-20 team, Amajita, won the Afcon Cup, while Mamelodi Sundowns claimed the PSL title. Kaizer Chiefs celebrated their Nedbank Cup victory, and sprinter Akani Simbine continues to shine internationally.
A Strong Vision for Gauteng’s Future
Premier Lesufi and the Gauteng Provincial Government are making visible progress in critical areas—economic growth, job creation, ethical leadership, crime prevention, and urban renewal. As 2025 unfolds, the administration remains committed to turning promises into performance, fixing inefficiencies, and ensuring every Gauteng resident enjoys a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous province.
