Premier Panyaza Lesufi has declared the 2025 G20 Leaders’ Summit a major success, saying Gauteng delivered a safe, well-coordinated and stable event as the first African host. He thanked residents, government partners, security agencies, labour, traditional leaders, taxi associations and municipal entities for their role in showcasing the province to the world.
Law enforcement reported 1,799 arrests during the summit period for crimes ranging from vandalism and theft to kidnapping and serious contact offences, with a unified policing model ensuring an incident-free environment for delegates.
The province completed rapid upgrades to roads, lighting, water systems, signage and beautification projects, while a resilient energy plan ensured uninterrupted electricity.
Preliminary tourism projections show Gauteng generated around R1 billion, with the event boosting hotels, transport, hospitality and retail while positioning the province as an investment gateway to Africa—given that G20 nations account for 78% of the global economy and 58% of South Africa’s international visitors.
Lesufi said lessons from the summit will guide ongoing service delivery, urban renewal, crime reduction, infrastructure upgrades and environmental clean-up efforts, forming a long-term G20 legacy. Gauteng will next host the LIV International Golf Tournament in March 2026 and venues for the 2027 ODI Cricket World Cup.
