South Africa prepares for historic G20 Summit despite US boycott

Johannesburg Mayor, Dada Morero, speaking to residents emphasised the city's efforts to resolve persistent urban issues in preparation for the conference.

"We have made sure... street, traffic lights are working and streets are proper, there are no potholes," Morero said, adding that the maintenance improvements would continue beyond the event.

Parts of Johannesburg are still grappling with drainage issues, with dirty water pooling on roads and cables strewn across the ground. Construction workers were seen drilling on some streets as part of ongoing repairs.

During a press conference on Monday (November 17) addressing South Africa's readiness to host the summit, the host's foreign affairs minister, Ronald Lamola, addressed the expected absence of four heads of state from the summit, calling it a routine feature of high-level multilateral events.

"We don't see this as a snub or undermining of Africa," Lamola said. He explained that such absences are often due to a range of reasons and added that delegations, including foreign ministers, are typically sent in their place.

The recently-announced absence of U.S. President Donald Trump, also drew attention. Lamola stated, "they decided on their own volition...our doors remain open for them."

Work on signage and event infrastructure continued onsite as flags of participating nations hung ready for the summit. The G20 leaders' summit is set to highlight global economic cooperation with South Africa, a key voice for emerging markets, hosting the gathering.