15/11/2025
All systems go in Jozi, Safety “dry run” completed ahead of G20 summit
Johannesburg authorities today, carried out a full-scale safety exercise in preparation for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit, set for 22–23 November in the city.
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), the South African Police Service (SAPS), Gauteng Traffic Police, and the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) joined forces in a coordinated “dry run” to test emergency protocols and traffic management strategies.
From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., several major roads including the N1, M1, N12, and key urban arteries like Grayston Drive, Nasrec Road, and Winnie Mandela Drive were temporarily closed to simulate the high-security environment expected during the summit.
According to JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla, the exercise enabled law enforcement agencies to evaluate their response capabilities under real-life conditions, while also refining plans to maintain regular policing in unaffected areas of the city.
The RTMC issued a media advisory ahead of the operation, asking motorists to plan ahead, use alternative routes, and allow additional travel time. After the run, all affected roads were reopened.
City officials framed the exercise as part of a broader readiness drive. The Gauteng Community Safety Department has established a special task group to oversee security preparations for the summit, including CCTV deployments in key precincts. Meanwhile, the Johannesburg Roads Agency has fast-tracked infrastructure upgrades resurfacing roads, repairing potholes, and upgrading lighting especially on critical corridors leading to Nasrec, the summit venue.
As the countdown to the summit continues, authorities say this joint run marks a significant milestone, demonstrating the city’s preparedness to host world leaders and reassuring residents that safety, traffic flow, and security will be closely managed.
