Johannesburg: A City in Need of a Turnaround?

Ahhhh Johannesburg. A city that consistently tests your resilience and keeps your anxiety medication close at hand. Having recently returned and chosen the water-allergic Melville as my base, I’ve witnessed the pervasive decay firsthand. And now, the city has appointed its first-ever deputy mayor, tasked with the ambitious goal of… turning the city around.

But what does “turning the city around” actually mean? Is it simply increasing service delivery and improving revenue collection? The reality often feels less inspiring. Will we see teams of 40 dispatched to fix a single leaking tap in Florida, accompanied by a hike in rates? It might address the issue, but will it truly resonate with residents?

A Fresh Perspective, But Where Did We Go Wrong?

The more pressing question is: what led Johannesburg to this point in the first place? Loyiso Masuku, the newly appointed deputy mayor, has a monumental task ahead. But before diving into solutions, it’s crucial to understand the root causes of the city’s struggles.

Practical Steps for a Better Jozi

So, what can be done? Here are a few suggestions for the deputy mayor to consider:

• Scrap the Rea Vaya Bus Lanes: These lanes are largely ignored, and enforcement is inconsistent. Either enforce them rigorously or remove them altogether. Inconsistent enforcement breeds lawlessness and disrespect for the rules.
• Audit Councillor Performance: Many residents are unsure what their ward councillors actually do, and some suspect a lack of genuine effort. A visible audit of councillor work would provide transparency and accountability. Many councillors earn substantial salaries – over half a million rand – and residents deserve to see a return on that investment.
• Aggressive Revenue Collection: Johannesburg’s by-laws are notoriously complex, yet potential revenue streams are often untapped. Enforce existing regulations, like fines for littering, with the same enthusiasm shown towards motorists.
• Reliable Service Delivery: Nothing is more frustrating than putting out your trash for collection, only to have it remain untouched and scattered by the wind. Successful cities provide reliable services that residents can depend on. This predictability allows for better planning, increased efficiency, and ultimately, a more prosperous city.

The Path to Prosperity

Ultimately, the success of Johannesburg hinges on the prosperity of its residents. If people can plan effectively, they can be more productive, and a more productive populace drives a more thriving city. I’m not opposed to the creation of a new deputy mayor position. However, I’m eager to see a concrete plan for how this role will translate into tangible improvements for the people of Johannesburg.

If we can move past the perception that this position was created to address internal ANC politics and genuinely believe that the deputy mayor can deliver on promises that countless city employees have failed to achieve, then let’s see it happen. Madam Deputy Mayor, the city awaits.

Further Reading:

• ‘She will assist the mayor with service delivery’: Masuku sworn is as Joburg’s first deputy mayor – The Citizen
• ‘We want to close down and leave for good’: Joburg businesses without water for nine months – The Citizen