Building Smart Cities Booklet Web

sustainable infrastructure development, the Gauteng government seeks to position the province as a leading smart city region in South Africa. Historically, the vision of GPG (Gauteng Provincial Government) as pronounced by the Honourable Premier Lesufi focused on the Five Elevated Priorities anchored on Townships, Informal Settlements and Hostels (TISH), additionally this has revealed a number of key challenges that pose a significant threat to the development of the Gauteng Province. These are articulated in the State of the Province 2025; the Province intends to commit resources and drive concerted efforts to alleviation of the 13 problem areas discussed above.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the importance of smart cities in South Africa’s future development, stating: “We are building cities of the future – smart cities that use digital technology, green energy, and advanced infrastructure to enhance the quality of life for all South Africans. This is about more than buildings and roads; it is about creating an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable urban environment that meets the needs of our people and drives economic growth.” This vision reinforces national and provincial governments’ commitment to creating smarter, more efficient, and more connected urban spaces, ensuring South Africa remains globally competitive in the era of digital transformation.

The Gauteng Context

Gauteng, the economic heart of South Africa, generates over 35% of the national GDP and is home to more than 15 million people. Historically dominated by mining and agriculture, the province has evolved into a service-driven economy, with key sectors including finance, trade, logistics, and manufacturing. Despite its economic dominance,

Gauteng faces significant socio-economic and infrastructural challenges, exacerbated by rapid urbanisation, climate change, and governance inefficiencies. Addressing these issues is critical to ensuring sustainable development and inclusive growth in the Gauteng City Region.

Economic Vision and Regional Integration

Gauteng, South Africa’s economic powerhouse, contributes approximately 35% of the national GDP and nearly 40% of the country’s industrial output. Despite being the smallest province by land area (1.5% of South Africa’s total landmass), it is home to nearly 16 million people, making it the most densely populated region in the country. Rapid urbanisation, driven by population growth and economic expansion, presents both opportunities and challenges. The vision is to transform Gauteng into

a 3-trillion-rand economy by leveraging world-class planning, governance, and economic strategies.

The Gauteng City Region (GCR) extends beyond provincial borders to include economically linked areas such as Rustenburg, Sasolburg, and KwaMhlanga, forming a single interconnected economic ecosystem. This strategy proposes treating the GCR as a unified entity to harness its full economic potential, streamline governance, and leverage regional synergies for sustainable growth.

The Gauteng City Region Smart Cities Strategy

The Gauteng City Region Smart Cities Strategy envisions transforming Gauteng into a globally competitive smart city region. By integrating advanced technologies, fostering economic

development, and enhancing human capital, the strategy aims to create a digitally connected, resilient, and inclusive urban environment.

8