Johannesburg is a city of resilience, ambition, and boundless potential. As the economic and cultural heartbeat of South Africa and the gateway to Africa, it has repeatedly proven its ability to shine on the global stage.
Our ability to host premier international events — whether sporting, cultural, or business—reinforces our reputation as a world-class destination that attracts investment, tourism, and international recognition.
Events like the Joburg Open, Joburg Ladies Open, Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, international concerts, and major sporting spectacles such as the Springboks vs. AllBlacks test match at Emirates Park, the Red Bull Race in Sandton, the Telkom NetballLeague at Ellis Park, and the upcoming African Forum on Urban Forest conference are more than just entertainment; they are powerful engines of economic growth, job creation, and global visibility.
Reimagining the City through the eyes of residents, while these events undoubtedly place Johannesburg on the global map, our success as a city is ultimately measured by the quality of life we provide to our residents. It is not enough to host world-class events; we strive to improve the daily lives of our people and enhance their experiences when engaging with the city as well as exceed their expectations.
By integrating local voices into urban development, cultural initiatives, and public spaces, we are fostering a sense of community ownership and pride. Through participatory city planning, improved public infrastructure, and cultural revitalisation, Johannesburg is not just a host city — it is a city that belongs to its people. A platform for global exposure, The Joburg Open and Joburg Ladies Open are not just golf tournaments; they are global showcases of Johannesburg’s vibrancy, infrastructure, and hospitality.
Broadcast live on SuperSport and reaching millions of viewers across 200 countries, these events frame Johannesburg as a dynamic, modern metropolis where urban sophistication meets cultural richness. Beyond sports, our city’s appeal continues to grow.
The Chris Brown concert at FNBStadium and the internationally acclaimed Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival have cemented Johannesburg’s status as Africa’s cultural and entertainment capital. These events offer an unmatched opportunity to market our city to the world, drawing further investment and boosting tourism.
Driving tourism and hospitality growth, our thriving hospitality sector stands as a key beneficiary of these international events. The influx of international golfers, jazz artists, sports fans, conference delegates, and music lovers directly translates into hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and bustling local attractions. These visitors, alongside South African travellers flocking to Johannesburg, inject capital into our local economy, reinforcing our city’s role as South Africa’s economic powerhouse.
Job creation and economic stimulus, the benefits of these global events extend well beyond entertainment — they generate employment opportunities across multiple sectors. From event management and security to hospitality and transportation, thousands of temporary and permanent jobs are created.
Furthermore, these events provide invaluable skills development opportunities for residents, allowing them to gain experience in managing and executing world-class events. In the long term, Johannesburg’s proven success in hosting large-scale concerts, major sporting matches, and international conferences fosters investor confidence.
The presence of international sponsors and business leaders drives further economic expansion and solidifies Johannesburg’s reputation as an attractive hub for global commerce. Attracting investment and business expansion, Johannesburg’s continued collaboration with organisations such as the Sunshine Tour, DP World Tour, and international business forums strengthens its global standing as a premier investment destination. Corporate sponsorship of major sporting events highlights the commercial viability of Johannesburg’s sports industry while demonstrating the potential for even greater economic opportunities.
Additionally, Johannesburg's commitment to sustainability and urban development will take centre stage at the upcoming African Forum on Urban Forest, marking the first physical conference of its kind. By positioning itself as a leader in progressive urban planning and economic innovation, Johannesburg is setting a new standard for cities across the continent.
A legacy beyond the greens and arenas, the significance of these events extends far beyond their immediate financial returns. Hosting prestigious international tournaments, concerts, and conferences inspires our youth, promotes a culture of excellence, and fosters inclusivity through developmental programs in sports, music, and entrepreneurship. Johannesburg’s growing influence on the global stage will soon reach new heights as we prepare to host the prestigious G20 Summit in 2025.
This landmark event will bring together world leaders, positioning Johannesburg at the forefront of international economic discussions and solidifying its role as a key player in global affairs. As President Cyril Ramaphosa stated in his State of the Nation Address, ''South Africa is ready to do business with the world and grow the economy of this country.''
Johannesburg is answering this call by leveraging global events to drive sustainable economic growth and create opportunities for its people.
These accomplishments are not accidental. They reflect our city’s strategic investment in infrastructure and its unwavering commitment to excellence. Johannesburg is not just a host city—it is a city that continuously evolves, innovates, and seeks to improve the lives of its residents.
Hosting major international events is not merely an expenditure; it is an investment in our city’s future. The benefits, from boosting tourism and job creation to attracting global investment, extend far beyond the immediate economic impact.
These events serve as a testament to our city’s resilience, ambition, and ability to adapt to an ever-changing world. Johannesburg continues to assert itself as Africa’s premier destination for international sports, culture, and business.
With upcoming events like the Joburg Open, JoburgLadies Open, and the African Forum on Urban Forest, we are writing the next chapter in our city’s success story. With a commitment to excellence and a vision that prioritises both global engagement and resident well-being, Johannesburg is ready to welcome the world and reap the rewards of its strategic investments.
Morero, Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg