Johannesburg on High Alert as G20 Summit Approaches

Johannesburg is set to transform into one of the most heavily secured cities in South Africa this week as the first-ever G20 Leaders’ Summit in Africa kicks off at the Nasrec Expo Centre. From Friday, 21 November to Monday, 24 November 2025, residents around Nasrec and FNB Stadium can expect hard lockdowns, road closures, and rigorous security checks.

Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, co-chair of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS), confirmed that the city is ready to host world leaders under a tight security umbrella, ensuring the event proceeds without incident.

Hard Lockdown Zones and Restricted Access

Mosikili warned that areas surrounding the Nasrec Expo Centre and FNB Stadium will be off-limits to anyone without proper accreditation. Vehicles entering the vicinity will be inspected thoroughly, and only authorised personnel will be allowed near the venues.

“This is a hard lockdown,” Mosikili stressed. “If you are not accredited, you will not be allowed into the vicinity. All access points are under strict control.”

Roads and highways already affected include the N1, N3, N12, R21, R24, and M1, which will be partially or fully closed during convoy movements. Traffic will resume once official convoys have passed. Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists are advised to plan alternative routes.

Five-Point Security Plan

NatJOINTS has outlined a comprehensive five-pillar security approach for the summit:

1. Intelligence gathering – monitoring potential threats.

2. High-visibility policing – officers stationed strategically.

3. Law enforcement response – rapid reaction to incidents.

4. Reactive detection and case management – handling emerging issues efficiently.

5. Public awareness and communication – keeping residents informed.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will provide backup support if necessary, ensuring a coordinated response to any security threats.

Airspace Restrictions and Drone Ban

Airspace above the conference venues will also be tightly controlled. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricts airspace within 20 nautical miles and up to 35,000 feet above Nasrec during the summit. Drones and unauthorised aircraft are strictly prohibited, and violations will be treated as criminal offences.

Protests and Public Safety

Mosikili stressed that lawful protests and demonstrations are permitted in designated areas, but warned that any attempt to breach security will not be tolerated.

“The safety of our visitors and South Africans is paramount,” he said. “Anyone attempting to test our security measures will face the full might of the law.”

Public Reaction and Local Impact

Residents and commuters have taken to social media expressing frustration at anticipated delays and restricted access, while others see the lockdown as a necessary step to ensure South Africa hosts its G20 summit successfully. Local businesses and schools near the lockdown zones are adjusting schedules and operations to accommodate the heightened security measures.

As Johannesburg enters what some are calling a “city under siege for diplomacy,” authorities urge residents to remain patient and cooperative. With world leaders arriving and the G20 Social Summit set for 22–23 November, the focus is clear: security first, smooth proceedings second.

{Source: The Citizen}

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