The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has a new Chief Executive Officer — Goodwill Zwelithini Nyathi, a leader known for turning challenges into opportunities and driving innovation in the public sector. Born and raised in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, Nyathi’s journey from a small-town scholar to an accomplished executive reflects his determination and vision.
His professional path began at South African Airways in 1997, where he rose through the ranks and honed his leadership and operational skills. He later held senior municipal roles, including Municipal Manager positions in Makhado and the Western Cape, and advisory posts within the City of Johannesburg.
Nyathi’s leadership philosophy centres on collaboration, accountability, and innovation. One of his early successes at JRA has been the revival of the agency’s asphalt plant, enabling internal production of road materials — a move that cuts costs and accelerates service delivery.
His financial acumen is well documented. In the Western Cape, he led a successful turnaround that transformed a municipal deficit into a surplus while reducing debt owed to Eskom — proof of his results-driven approach.
Under his leadership, JRA is focusing on improving Johannesburg’s road and stormwater infrastructure, forming strategic partnerships with the private sector, and embracing technology to keep the city’s mobility systems running smoothly, even during power interruptions.
Nyathi is also expanding the City’s global footprint. He has represented Johannesburg at international platforms such as the Transport International Annual Conference in Moscow and now sits on the Advisory Board of Smarter Mobility Africa 2025, championing sustainable transport solutions.
Away from the office, Nyathi describes himself as a “fitness enthusiast”. He enjoys basketball, golf, hiking, and family time, and is currently pursuing a PhD in technology and innovation management, aligning his academic journey with his passion for progressive leadership.
With his strategic mindset and commitment to innovation, Goodwill Nyathi is positioning the JRA as a future-ready agency — one that builds smarter, more resilient roads for a growing city.
Written by Tinyiko Ngobeni