G20 SUMMIT: IS NASREC A HIT OR A MISS?

Concerns raised about suitability, some calling it a ‘cold, industrial site’

- MASABATA MKWANANZI

THE decision to select Nasrec as the venue for the upcoming G20 summit, rather than Sandton, has generated some controversy, with concerns raised about Nasrec’s suitability, with some calling it a “cold, industrial site” unfit to represent the country to first-time visitors and world leaders.

Another view is that the government should be open to considering other venue options, including Durban and Cape Town, to showcase the best of our country.

The G20 comprises 19 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Tiirkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.

The group of countries seeks to find solutions to global economic and financial issues.

With G20 Summit preparations in full swing, Joburg Mayor Dada Morero has expressed confidence that the city has the capacity to ensure a successful event, citing its experience hosting major gatherings.

Yet, as the countdown continues, a pressing question lingers: can Nasrec steer clear of the logistical and operational challenges that have marred past events at the venue?

This concern stems from previous ANC conferences at Nasrec, where delegates endured hours-long accreditation delays due to faulty registration systems, power supply threats from load shedding, and logistical snags ranging from vendor disputes to overcrowding.

At one point, even unpaid contractors made headlines after claiming they were left out of pocket. While these glitches were tolerated in a domestic political setting, they could have far more damaging consequences when the world’s most powerful leaders converge on Nasrec for the G20.