28 Aug 2024 | 12:00 PM UTC
South Africa: Ongoing protest likely causing disruptions in central Johannesburg, Aug. 28
Residents protesting against unemployment near mayoral offices in central Johannesburg, South Africa, Aug. 29; localized disruptions.
A protest is ongoing near the mayoral offices in Johannesburg, Gauteng Province, Aug. 28. Protesters are reportedly unemployed residents of a lower-income area in Soweto, angered at the new mayor's suggestion to employ foreign nationals to assist local police forces. Their march, which began in Soweto, has ended in central Johannesburg.
The action may continue to draw large crowds of several hundred protesters in the coming hours. Increased security is likely near City Hall and other municipal buildings. Road blockages and localized transport disruptions are likely in the area. Clashes between police and protesters are possible if demonstrators ignore official orders to disperse or engage in acts of public violence.
Plan accordingly for increased security in central Johannesburg, as well as for transport and service delivery disruptions. Allow extra time to reach destinations, and seek alternative of transport if necessary. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Reconfirm administrative appointments. Avoid all protests.
