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17 Jul 2018 | 09:20 AM UTC

South Africa: Barack Obama speech in Johannesburg July 17

Former US President Barack Obama will deliver a speech in Johannesburg on July 17; traffic disruptions likely

Warning

Event

Former US President Barack Obama will deliver a speech during the 16th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture event in Johannesburg on Tuesday, July 17. The event, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of former South African President Nelson Mandela, is scheduled to start at 14:00 (local time) at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium, located in the Sandton area of the city. At least 9000 people, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, are expected to attend. An increased security presence along with associated traffic disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the stadium; authorities have reportedly closed the nearby Corlett Drive and other roads are likely to be affected.

Advice

Individuals present in Johannesburg are advised to avoid large public gatherings, even those expected to remain peaceful, and to plan alternative transportation routes.