Anti-capitalists, climate activists, women’s rights campaigners, and anti-migrant groups plan demonstrations, highlighting South Africa’s poverty and inequality.
Police and army paraded helicopters, K-9 units, and motorcycle officers on Wednesday to show force ahead of weekend G20 protests.
Authorities deployed 3,500 additional police officers and put the army on standby under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure.
Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili told reporters that authorities expect protests in Johannesburg and other major cities.
She stated that protesters can exercise their rights, but only within legal boundaries.
Police designated specific areas for protests near the summit venue, next to South Africa’s largest soccer stadium.
Airports Company South Africa set up “speakers’ corners” and said security will escort demonstrators there if they protest during world leaders’ arrivals.
A trade union representing Afrikaner white minority members caused controversy with billboards reading, “Welcome to the most RACE-REGULATED country in the world.”
City officials removed one billboard, prompting Solidarity to threaten legal action.
The billboards reference affirmative action laws supporting Black South Africans, fueling diplomatic tensions with the United States.
President Donald Trump plans to boycott the G20 summit, claiming the Black-led government persecutes Afrikaners.
Observers reject Trump’s claims as baseless, but the boycott risks undermining Africa’s first G20 summit.
Other organisations plan to highlight local issues during the summit.
Women for Change calls for a national work boycott on Friday to protest high rates of violence against women.
The group stressed South Africa cannot discuss growth while a woman dies every 2.5 hours.
An anti-immigration group will protest unemployment and poverty, citing the country’s 31% jobless rate.
A coalition against climate change and wealth inequality will hold an alternative summit in Johannesburg, calling the G20 a meeting for the rich.
Security and City Preparations
Johannesburg authorities began a major cleanup and repair operation ahead of the summit to fix the city’s failing infrastructure.
President Cyril Ramaphosa joined the effort, wearing green overalls to help in Soweto near the summit venue.
Many residents criticize the multi-million-dollar effort, noting broken streetlights, potholes, and unreliable water and electricity services.
Resident Lerato Lelusa said hosting the G20 will not benefit ordinary South Africans and will waste public money.
Global Leaders Arrive
The two-day summit starts on Saturday and will host leaders and diplomats from over 40 countries.
Global institutions including the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and World Trade Organisation will also attend.
Authorities and organisers continue final preparations to ensure security and smooth operations during the high-profile gathering.
