Anti-capitalists, climate activists, women’s rights campaigners and anti-migrant groups plan demonstrations, highlighting South Africa’s poverty and inequality.
Police and army displayed strength on Wednesday using helicopters, K-9 units and motorcycle officers before weekend G20 protests in Johannesburg.
Authorities deployed 3,500 extra officers and placed the army on standby under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure.
Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili told reporters officials expect protests in Johannesburg and other major cities.
She confirmed authorities will allow protests but will enforce lawful limits.
Police designated specific areas for demonstrators near the summit, next to the country’s largest soccer stadium.
Airports Company South Africa established “speakers’ corners” and will guide protesters there if they act during world leaders’ arrivals.
A trade union representing Afrikaner white minority members sparked controversy by posting billboards claiming South Africa is the most “race-regulated” country.
City authorities removed one billboard, prompting the union Solidarity to threaten legal action.
The billboards reference affirmative action laws promoting Black South Africans, adding tension with the United States.
President Donald Trump will boycott the G20 summit, citing alleged anti-white policies and persecution of Afrikaners.
Observers widely reject Trump’s claims, but the boycott threatens the success of Africa’s first G20 meeting.
Women for Change called for a national shutdown on Friday, urging women to skip work to protest femicide and gender-based violence.
An anti-immigration group plans protests over unemployment and poverty, citing South Africa’s 31% jobless rate.
Climate and wealth inequality activists will host an alternative summit starting Thursday, criticizing the G20 as serving wealthy elites.
Strengthening Security and Public Response
Johannesburg authorities launched a major repair and cleanup effort ahead of the summit to address broken infrastructure.
President Cyril Ramaphosa joined workers in Soweto, performing repair tasks near the summit site.
Citizens criticized the multi-million-dollar preparations for a two-day event while streetlights remain broken and roads full of potholes.
Johannesburg resident Lerato Lelusa said the summit will waste public funds and provide little benefit for ordinary citizens.
Global Leaders Prepare to Convene
The summit begins on Saturday, attracting leaders and diplomats from over 40 nations.
International organisations such as the United Nations, World Bank, IMF and World Trade Organisation will also attend.
Officials expect the event to dominate political attention and draw both local and international scrutiny.
