Joburg’s inner city is shining brighter after City Power launched its streetlights and Christmas lights display, bringing festive cheer while improving safety and visibility over the holiday season.

Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero was joined by MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services Cllr Jack Sekwaila, MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services Cllr Sithembiso Hlatshwayo, Regional Director Irene Mafune and City Power executives to switch on the display on Wednesday, 26 November 2025.

Cllr Morero said the lighting rollout supports his vision to restore confidence in the inner city. “We are on the right path to recovering and rebuilding our City. Our goal is a safer Johannesburg where people can walk freely, feel safe, and enjoy functional public lighting supported by the rollout of more solar high masts. We want to bring back ‘Jozi Maboneng’ and restore pride in our City.”

City Power Chief Commercial Officer Thamsanqa Mathiso said the work demonstrates renewed commitment to service delivery. He said the festive installations build on progress made during G20 preparations and reflect ongoing efforts to improve reliability for residents.“We are here to demonstrate the Mayor’s vision that we can light up the City. We are returning the City to its glory days and want the residents and visitors to enjoy and experience the spirit of Jozi Maboneng of old,” said Mathiso.

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said the initiative forms part of the inner city Regeneration Programme, with installations completed along De Villiers, Noord, Plein, Wolmarans, Commissioner and Rissik streets. Fourteen displays on De Villiers Street are already complete.

He added that lights were refurbished using cleaned and repaired stock from previous years to cut costs, with most work done by internal teams. The vibrant displays and newly repaired streetlights aim to create a welcoming inner city.