Johannesburg Targets AI Integration in Municipal Services Under New 2027 Modernisation Roadmap
Looking ahead, Morero committed Johannesburg to full digital transformation by 2027, including the integration of artificial intelligence across municipal systems to improve efficiency and service delivery.
Johannesburg Executive Mayor Councillor Dada Morero has delivered the 2026 State of the City Address, marking the final address of the 2021–2026 political term. The speech, delivered at a local church venue under council precinct protocols, focused on the city’s development progress, economic resilience, and planned reforms aimed at accelerating service delivery and digital transformation.
Despite brief logistical disruptions, including microphone and sound issues that delayed proceedings, Morero used the platform to outline an ambitious roadmap for Johannesburg’s next phase of growth. He highlighted infrastructure upgrades, economic revitalisation efforts, and a stronger push toward data-driven governance and modernised municipal services.
A key feature of the address was the presentation of labour market and service delivery statistics. Referencing the Quarter 1, 2026 Quarterly Labour Force Survey, Morero said Johannesburg recorded a net employment gain of 23,000 jobs, contrasting with a reported decline of 33,000 jobs in Cape Town over the same period. He also stated that 93.3% of Johannesburg residents now have access to clean water, 94.6% receive sanitation services, and 92% benefit from electricity for lighting. On healthcare, he noted that 18.6% of residents rely on private medical aid, indicating continued dependence on public healthcare systems.
On the city’s financial position, the Mayor reflected on the turnaround since 2019, when the municipality faced significant fiscal strain. He announced that Johannesburg has adopted a fully funded R89.4 billion budget for the 2025–2026 financial year, supported by 9.3% revenue growth and an expected operational surplus of R4.1 billion. He also outlined a debt relief programme offering a 50% write-off and full interest waiver for qualifying residents.
Morero further confirmed that the city has secured an agreement in principle with Germany’s KfW development bank for a 200-million-euro loan to support energy infrastructure projects through City Power, with disbursement expected before June 2026.
On infrastructure and urban management, he detailed the city’s extensive water system, which delivers around 1,700 megalitres of potable water daily through a 12,528-kilometre distribution network, while ongoing efforts continue to replace ageing pipelines and address illegal land occupations.
Looking ahead, Morero committed Johannesburg to full digital transformation by 2027, including the integration of artificial intelligence across municipal systems to improve efficiency and service delivery. Political parties in council are expected to debate the address at tomorrow’s sitting in the Chambers.
