Hope Rises in Joburg South as Southern Farms Mega City Breaks Ground

A long-awaited housing and infrastructure project that promises to transform Joburg South is finally in motion. The R27 billion Southern Farms Mega City Project, first conceptualized in 2018, officially broke ground on May 9, 2025. The launch ends years of uncertainty and brings renewed optimism to communities long burdened by inadequate housing and underdevelopment.

Set in the Bushkoppies and Devland regions, the Mega City is designed to ease Johannesburg’s housing crisis while also serving as a catalyst for economic and social renewal. The project spans an ambitious 4,000 hectares and aims to deliver 45,000 housing units, alongside essential community amenities and employment opportunities.

A Project Years in the Making

Initially called the Southern Farms Biodiversity Development Project, this vision for inclusive urban development was delayed by red tape and funding issues. But that has now changed, as bulldozers and construction teams move into Region G with a clear mandate: build more than just homes—build dignity.

“This project is about dignity. It restores faith by ensuring our residents are seen, valued, and housed decently,” said MMC for Human Settlements, Cllr Mlungisi Mabaso.

Communities in Diepkloof, Eldorado Park, Freedom Park, and Naturena have waited years for this promise to materialize. Now, they’re seeing tangible signs of progress.

More Than Housing: A Vision for Livable, Sustainable Communities

The Southern Farms Mega City isn’t your typical housing project. It’s a comprehensive, mixed-use urban plan. The development is structured around seven distinct precincts, each with a focus on creating a well-rounded lifestyle for residents.

Key community features include:

• Schools and clinics

• Taxi ranks and road networks

• Seven neighborhood parks

• Six multi-purpose sports courts

• Two Department of Home Affairs offices

• A local library

This approach is about building a city within a city—one that encourages growth, well-being, and opportunity.

“We’re not just building houses—we’re building a future,” said Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero. “A future that ensures dignity, opportunity, and progress for everyone who calls Joburg South home.”

Empowering the Local Economy

Beyond housing and amenities, the project also aims to drive economic revitalization. It is expected to create thousands of jobs during its phased construction and open doors for SMMEs (small, medium, and micro enterprises) through local procurement and subcontracting opportunities.

From training programs to infrastructure contracts, the project offers multiple entry points for community participation, making it a blueprint for inclusive economic growth.

The Southern Farms Mega City Project signals more than construction—it’s a moment of transformation for Johannesburg’s southern corridor. As bricks are laid and plans take shape, this R27 billion development brings with it the promise of housing, hope, and a better tomorrow for thousands of residents.

{Source: Gauteng Tourism Authority}

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