Panyaza Reaffirms His Commitments On Infrastructure, Jobs To Revitalise Economy

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi reaffirms commitment to revitalising the province’s economy through large-scale infrastructure projects and job creation.

While delivering his 2025 State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Monday, Lesufi highlighted key developments in transport, urban renewal, and private sector investment as part of his strategy to boost employment and economic growth.

Among the flagship projects is the long-anticipated expansion of the Gautrain network. First proposed several years ago, the project aims to extend rail services to Soweto via Fourways, Mamelodi, Atteridgeville, Lanseria, and Springs at an estimated cost of R120 billion.

Lesufi did not provide an update on the project’s timeline but reiterated its potential to generate employment. “During the expansion of Gautrain, we will create 125,000 jobs as the Gauteng provincial government, thus eliminating unemployment among our young people,” he stated.

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Lanseria International Airport (LIA) is also set for a major upgrade, with plans to expand its terminals through a R3 billion private investment. This initiative is expected to create 3,000 jobs in Diepsloot and surrounding areas.

He also announced that 10 hijacked buildings in Johannesburg had been successfully recovered as part of an urban renewal campaign. The effort is expected to pave the way for safe housing and commercial redevelopment.

Additionally, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) is set to reintegrate 2,000 employees into offices in the Johannesburg CBD. The premier also committed to keeping all government offices in the city centre to support local businesses and sustain economic activity.

“At the core of the renewal of Johannesburg is the Park Station precinct, a transit-oriented development that integrates four major taxi ranks to enhance mobility and stimulate economic activity,” Lesufi explained. “This multi-entity project will create jobs, modernise transport, and drive commercial expansion in the CBD.”

Similarly, beyond transport and urban renewal, Lesufi highlighted a significant private sector investment in retail development. He revealed that a new mega mall, developed by a BRICS partner, is set to open in Langlaagte by June 2025.

“I’m proud to announce that a new mall, which will be the largest in the country, is now under construction as part of the rehabilitation of the Johannesburg CBD,” he stated.

However, while Lesufi’s plans signal ambition, opposition leaders remain sceptical. Democratic Alliance (DA) provincial leader Solly Msimanga criticised the speech, arguing that it lacked concrete action.

“Lesufi has yet to learn an old-age wisdom—that actions speak louder than words,” Msimanga remarked. “His speech was more hot air and did little but show that his minority government will not do much to improve the lives of Gauteng residents.”

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As the province moves forward, the success of these initiatives will depend on effective execution, timely delivery, and sustained investment. Whether Lesufi’s promises translate into real economic upliftment remains to be seen.

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