Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has provided a comprehensive update on key provincial developments following a recent executive council meeting. The premier highlighted significant progress in crime reduction, infrastructure repairs, and government accountability measures.
Crime Reduction Successes
Lesufi announced that out of 450 high-profile criminals identified as major contributors to crime in Gauteng, 150 have been arrested, including two of the most wanted suspects linked to recent cash-in-transit heists. The two suspects were fatally wounded during police operations.
The premier credited Provincial Commissioner General Tombeni for leading the crackdown, which has led to a decline in kidnappings, cash-in-transit robberies, and ATM bombings. However, he noted that gender-based violence (GBV) remains a stubborn challenge requiring urgent intervention.
Expanded Law Enforcement Partnerships
Lesufi emphasized strengthened collaboration between municipalities, private security firms, and the South African Police Service (SAPS). Joint operations have already yielded results, including the arrest of seven wanted criminals hiding in the Johannesburg CBD.
Future operations are planned for Ekurhuleni next month, with a long-term goal to “clean up” the Durban CBD and other high-crime areas.
Ethics and Governance Reforms
The premier addressed findings from the biannual State of Ethics Report, which exposed officials conducting business with the state. The provincial government has established working committees to monitor compliance, with the Department of Education and Health under scrutiny.
Lifestyle audits for senior officials are underway, conducted by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). So far, one Head of Department (HOD) has failed the audit and will undergo further review. Gauteng remains the only province with a formal SIU agreement for these audits.
Road Repairs and Pothole Eradication
Acknowledging motorists’ frustrations, Lesufi announced a R1.5 billion budget for immediate road repairs. Only 35% of Gauteng’s 5,400 km provincial roads are in good condition, with many gravel roads in townships needing upgrades.
The province will take over road maintenance coordination from municipalities by 2025, with advanced negotiations underway with Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni metros.
Revitalizing Johannesburg and Other CBDs
The provincial government has reclaimed 12 hijacked buildings through court interventions, part of a broader plan to revitalize CBDs. The Kambule Commission, tasked with investigating building hijackings, will submit its final report by June 2025.
Additionally, the Gauteng Government Precinct Project will repurpose unused state-owned buildings to cut rental costs, following reports of the province spending R34 million monthly on office leases.
Job Creation and Skills Development
In June, Gauteng will relaunch its Nurses and Skills Development Program, aiming to create opportunities for 60,000 unemployed youth. The Department of Education is also recruiting 32,000 assistant teachers.
Trade Agreement with China
Lesufi revealed that he will lead a delegation to Hunan, China, next month to finalize a trade deal allowing Gauteng SMMEs to export products like nuts, rooibos tea, and moringa honey with fewer restrictions.
Sports Achievements
The premier congratulated South Africa’s U-20 soccer team, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Kaizer Chiefs for their recent victories. He also praised sprinter Akani Simbine for his outstanding performance in the 100-meter race.
Conclusion
Lesufi reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to service delivery, crime reduction, and ethical governance. With multiple initiatives underway, Gauteng aims to address critical challenges while fostering economic growth and youth employment.
