2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address: Transforming Vision into Action

The 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address by Premier Panyaza Lesufi outlined a comprehensive vision for the future of Gauteng Province, highlighting significant achievements and setting the stage for further development. The address, delivered on August 15, 2024, at the Change Bible Church in Katlehong, Johannesburg, underscored Gauteng’s pivotal role as South Africa’s economic, social, and cultural hub.

2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address: Introduction and Context

During the 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address, Premier Lesufi emphasized the unique position of Gauteng as the central hub for the flow of people, goods, and capital across South Africa and beyond. He paid tribute to historical figures and celebrated the transformation of Ekurhuleni, noting its evolution into a Place of Peace.

Key Achievements and Ongoing Initiatives

1. E-tolls and Loadshedding: A major highlight of the 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address was the announcement of the removal of e-tolls and significant progress in resolving the load-shedding crisis, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Eskom and government partners.
2. State Bank and Pharmaceutical Company: Premier Lesufi reported ongoing developments toward establishing a state bank and pharmaceutical company, with interest from local and international banks.
3. Energy Infrastructure: The address detailed Gauteng’s progress in energy infrastructure, including the installation of 485 transformers and the launch of Phase 2 of the Energy Response Plan, which aims to add 3,000 megawatts to the national grid.
4. Investment and Job Creation: The 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address showcased the province’s success in attracting substantial investments, such as:
   • ACSA’s R6 billion investment for ORTIA over four years.
   • Vodacom’s R3 billion commitment to advancing ICT infrastructure in Gauteng.
   • Citibank’s R1.4 billion investment in the Vaal Special Economic Zone.
   • Heineken Beverages’ R3 billion investment, projected to create 1,000 jobs.
5. Agriculture and Agro-Processing: The address highlighted investments in smallholder grain farmers and commercial farming entities, contributing to job creation and food security in Gauteng.
6. Inter-Provincial Collaboration: Premier Lesufi emphasized the importance of strengthening economic ties with neighboring provinces, focusing on transport, logistics, and infrastructure projects that promise mutual benefits.
7. Gautrain Expansion: A R120 billion investment over two years will expand the Gautrain to new areas, creating 125,000 jobs during the construction phase, as mentioned in the 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address.
8. Education and Youth Development: The province is expanding its schools of specialization to prepare youth for an AI-driven world, focusing on aviation, automotive, ICT, and more.

Crime and Corruption

Addressing crime and corruption was a top priority in the 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address. Premier Lesufi detailed initiatives including the deployment of SAPS vehicles, visible policing, drones, and e-panic applications. Additionally, the overhaul of the number plate regime and recruitment of traffic wardens are key measures to curb crime.

Infrastructure and Urban Development

The 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address also focused on revitalizing Central Business Districts (CBDs) into vibrant economic hubs, with key projects such as the rehabilitation of the Carlton Centre and the recommissioning of railway lines connecting the three metros in Gauteng.

Health and Wellbeing

Premier Lesufi committed to enhancing healthcare in Gauteng, with plans for new hospitals, partnerships with private healthcare providers, and the expansion of e-health systems. The 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address also highlighted efforts to address substance abuse and improve social services.

Governance and Public Service

The Province Address outlined the 7th Administration’s commitment to transforming Gauteng into a province characterized by ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability. The government aims to recruit highly qualified individuals and implement consequence management systems to combat corruption.

Environmental and Climate Action

Gauteng is taking decisive action on environmental sustainability, waste recovery, and climate change mitigation, as outlined in the address. The province will host a Climate Change Indaba in October 2024 to discuss financing climate action.

Conclusion

Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s 2024 Gauteng State of the Province Address was a call to action for the 7th Administration to transform Gauteng through collaboration, innovative solutions, and a focus on quality service delivery. The journey of change and growth for the province has begun, with the promise of a brighter future for all its residents.

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