The Gauteng Department of Economic Development takes a long-term view of the development of the province and over the last year embarked on a project known as Gauteng Vision 2055.

As part of this project the department launched a scenario planning process to develop Gauteng 2055 (G2055), a long-term vision and development strategy for the Gauteng City Region (GCR).

G2055 aims to provide a distinct credible direction and vision for the GCR that is underpinned by the principles of the Freedom Charter of 1955.

The fundamental objective is to use the scenario planning approach in a strategic debate about the long-term future of Gauteng City Region. G2055 process seeks to guide Government’s strategic choices and the related possible impact they will have on the day-to-day living experiences of all Gauteng citizens in the future. 

The process features the following phases:

During Phase 1 of the process a position paper with a detailed project plan was developed to map out the process for attaining Gauteng long-term vision and development strategy.  The following planning horizons were agreed upon:

• Short-term 2009 - 2014
• Medium-term 2015 - 2025
• Long-term  2026 – 2034
• Long-term 2035 – 2055

A G2055 Advisory Panel of 12 portfolio members with key focus areas was appointed by the MEC to provide leadership and guidance to the process. The Panel consists of specialists and thought leaders who are well respected by their peers.

A Benchmarking process was undertaken to compare the Gauteng City Region with 6 Global City Regions in the world and in the African Continent such as Lagos, Mumbai, Sydney, Sao Paulo, Singapore and London.

In terms of administering Growth Development Strategy (GDS) funds the Department had no formalised or standardised platform to engage, approve or monitor the implementation of its GDS in the province.

This situation posed an undesirable scenario as the responsibility for the project implementation resides with the stakeholders/beneficiaries. To address this challenge; a number of interventions were undertaken.

• A standardised platform to monitor GDS implementation was established and functional project management systems designed to provide credible back-up for auditing purposes, ensuring the ultimate purpose of GDS projects is achieved.
• A Cost Benefit Analysis Tool was developed to assess the economic viability and social development of each project.
• An approval Committee was established comprising of representatives from each Unit within Economic and Development Planning to ensure that all critical aspects are covered when projects are approved.
• Internal and External guidelines for application of GDS funds are in place.
• Effective templates were designed (Business Plan, Project plan and Reporting).
• R85m was allocated to GDS projects

For more information about the Gauteng DED, and its vision for the province over the next 50 years, contact the department directly.
Name: Fezile Ngqobe
Email: Fezile.Ngqobe@gauteng.gov.za
Tel: +27 11 355 8000