Johannesburg
- Population: Approximately 5.8 million (2022 Mid-Year Estimates for the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality).
- Municipality: City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
- Province: Gauteng
- Area code: 010, 011
- Established: 1886
GDP
While a specific GDP for Johannesburg alone is not precisely calculated, as it's part of the larger Gauteng economy, it is the largest contributor to South Africa's GDP within Gauteng. The Gauteng province's GDP was ZAR 2.2 trillion (approx. US$135 billion) in 2022. Johannesburg's economy is a major component of this, being the financial, industrial, and commercial hub.
History
Johannesburg's origins are directly linked to the discovery of gold. In 1886, a major gold reef was discovered on the Witwatersrand, triggering one of the greatest gold rushes in history. Within a few years, a tented camp quickly transformed into a burgeoning town, attracting prospectors, adventurers, and entrepreneurs from around the world. It was named after two officials, Christiaan Johannes Joubert and Johann Rissik. The rapid growth of Johannesburg led to significant social and political tensions, contributing to the outbreak of the Anglo-Boer War.
During the apartheid era, Johannesburg became a focal point of resistance, particularly with the establishment of townships like Soweto (South Western Townships), which became synonymous with the struggle against segregation and racial oppression. Major events like the Soweto Uprising of 1976 highlighted the injustices of the system. Since the end of apartheid, Johannesburg has continued to grow and diversify, solidifying its position as a vibrant economic and cultural hub on the African continent.
Education
Johannesburg is a leading educational centre in South Africa, offering a wide range of institutions from early childhood development to tertiary education.
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University): A globally recognised research-intensive university, particularly strong in fields like health sciences, engineering, and humanities.
- University of Johannesburg (UJ): A large, comprehensive university known for its diverse programs, strong industry links, and commitment to accessible education.
Numerous private colleges and vocational training institutions offer specialised courses in various fields.
Law and Government
Johannesburg is governed by the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, which is one of the largest local governments in Africa. The municipality is run by an Executive Mayor and a City Council elected every five years. This council is responsible for delivering essential services, managing urban development, and addressing local issues for the city's residents.
As a major city, Johannesburg also hosts significant legal infrastructure:
- The Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa has a major seat in Johannesburg, handling a wide range of civil and criminal cases.
- The Constitutional Court of South Africa, the highest court in the country for constitutional matters, is located in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, housed in the iconic Constitution Hill precinct.
- Numerous magistrates' courts, regional courts, and specialised courts operate throughout the city.
While Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa, many government departments and agencies have significant offices and operations in Johannesburg, particularly those related to finance, commerce, and industry.
