Johannesburg is facing significant challenges, from service delivery concerns to governance issues and aging infrastructure. But according to Rashid Seedat from the Gauteng City-Region Observatory, there’s still a viable path forward.

Speaking to HOT Business with Jeremy Maggs, powered by Standard Bank, Seedat shared insights on a renewed effort to stabilise the city and restore functionality. “I do believe Johannesburg is salvageable,” he said. “But it’s going to take sustained effort over time — there are no quick fixes.”

A key part of that effort is the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group, established earlier this year. This initiative, which brings together national and local government officials, academics, and civil society voices, is focused on stabilising the city’s administration, repairing its finances, and creating a roadmap for improvement. Seedat clarified that the so-called “bomb squad” introduced by the Mayor would act as a complementary political force to help ensure these plans are implemented effectively.

When asked where investment should begin, Seedat pointed to water and sanitation as the first priority — followed by electricity and roads. “These are the areas where residents are feeling the most strain,” he explained.

However, addressing infrastructure alone won’t be enough. “We have to rebuild technical capacity and institutional memory — and that starts with hiring the right people, based on capability, not connections,” said Seedat.

Ultimately, restoring trust in Johannesburg’s leadership remains one of the most difficult tasks. But Seedat believes that real, measurable improvements in daily services — fewer outages, improved roads, consistent delivery — can start to shift public sentiment.

Hear the full conversation with Rashid Seedat below: