In a city where the signs of decay are hard to ignore, the “Jozi vs Jozi” account has become both an irritation and a force for good – exposing Johannesburg’s decline with stark “before and after” photos while (hopefully) igniting a movement of citizens determined to reclaim their city.
Johannesburg, South Africa (15 October 2024) – Johannesburg, a city known for its boundless energy and opportunities, is officially described on the City of Joburg website as a place that “still attracts those who want to realise their dreams and achieve success.” The city’s mission, according to the website, is to “foster citizen-centric ethos through service excellence” and ensure “a well-governed, managed, and developed City with enhanced levels of accountability and citizen participation.” Their vision focuses on a “clean, green, healthy and safe urban environment.”
However, if you ask many Joburg residents today, these ideals seem far from reality.
For years now, Johannesburg has faced challenges with service delivery, safety, and general urban decay. While the city’s promises of governance and pride are noble, many would argue that they aren’t being fully realised.
Enter “Jozi vs Jozi“, a viral X (formerly Twitter) account that has sparked a different kind of conversation—a conversation about ownership, responsibility, and hope for a brighter Jozi.
The Rise of “Jozi vs Jozi”
Started in September 2024, “Jozi vs Jozi” has taken social media by storm, amassing over 22,000 followers in just a few weeks. With its no-nonsense approach, the account posts daily “before and after” photos of Johannesburg, highlighting places that have fallen into neglect. The images are stark: broken pavements, littered streets, and dilapidated buildings—side by side with older photos of vibrant, clean, and well-maintained spaces from yesteryear.
These photos have shocked many residents, some of whom have lived in the city their whole lives but failed to notice the extent of its decline. Others are seeing it as a wake-up call. The account’s bio, reading, “a labour of love for a city that means a lot to many,” hints at its motivation.
Though no one has claimed ownership of the account yet, its message is loud and clear: Johannesburg is not what it once was, but it could be again.
Interestingly, “Jozi vs Jozi” follows only one account—the City of Joburg itself. This symbolic action reinforces the idea that while the city may have its issues, it’s not beyond redemption. And perhaps that’s the key takeaway: we can’t rely on the government alone to fix everything. Instead, there’s a growing recognition that active citizenship is essential to turning things around.
The Broken Window Theory: Why “Jozi vs Jozi” May Be a Catalyst for Change
One concept that ties directly into the work of “Jozi vs Jozi” is the “broken window” theory. This theory suggests that visible signs of disorder—like broken windows, graffiti, or litter—can encourage further neglect and even crime while maintaining order and cleanliness can foster a sense of pride and safety. In Johannesburg’s case, “Jozi vs Jozi” may be doing more than just posting photos; it could be sparking a revolution of active citizenship.
By raising awareness around the city’s decline, the account could inspire more people to take action, whether through organising clean-up initiatives or holding local officials accountable.
Johannesburg’s story isn’t just about what’s gone wrong. It’s also about the incredible grassroots movements that have sprung up in response to these challenges. Across the city, communities have banded together to reclaim their spaces, showing that when citizens take ownership, change is possible.
The Power of Community Initiatives
If you need proof that active citizenship works, look no further than initiatives like the Cape Town Central City Improvement District, Better Bedfordview, The Boksburg Community Project and Praboa in Parkhurst.
These projects, led by dedicated residents, have made significant strides in cleaning up and revitalising their neighbourhoods.
One standout example is the Rejuvenation of The Wilds, a once-neglected park in Houghton that has been transformed into a safe, clean, and vibrant public space thanks to the tireless efforts of community volunteers. This project has restored a beloved green space and has also sparked a renewed sense of pride among residents.
Another inspiring story comes from Better Fourways, where local residents have taken the reins to improve security, cleanliness, and overall quality of life in their area. The initiative has successfully worked alongside local authorities to maintain public spaces, proving that collaboration between government and citizens can yield impressive results.
These projects highlight a powerful message: Johannesburg is a city of resilience. Its people care deeply, and when they come together, they can achieve incredible things.
Getting Our Hands Dirty
Becoming an active citizen in Johannesburg (or any city) starts with small, impactful actions that collectively drive change.
Here are five ways you can make a difference:
- Join local community projects: Get involved with community initiatives in your area to help clean up and maintain public spaces. And if you can’t join, support them! Even with just R10 a month, many R10s make thousands.
- Organise clean-up days: Rally neighbours to tackle litter, paint over graffiti, or plant trees in neglected areas. And do it yourself! If you run or walk in your neighbourhood, take a Woolies bag (we know you have too many) and clean up while you’re out and about.
- Hold local authorities accountable: Attend community meetings or engage with local representatives to ensure service delivery issues are addressed. Get to know your Ward Councillors. Engage with them regularly.
- Report issues: Use platforms like social media or city apps to report broken infrastructure, illegal dumping, or potholes, ensuring they get the needed attention.
- Support small businesses: Strengthening local economies by shopping at and promoting small, neighbourhood businesses fosters a sense of pride and community investment.
A Bright Future for Johannesburg
The rise of “Jozi vs Jozi” and the success of various community-driven projects across the city show that Johannesburg’s future is not set in stone. The challenges are real, but so is the potential for change.
As the cover photo on the “Jozi vs Jozi” account reads: “An ode to a Joburg we once knew and hope to meet again, further down the road.”
While the city may be facing its fair share of difficulties, the growing wave of active citizenship and community engagement suggests that a better, brighter Johannesburg is possible—and it may be just around the corner.
So, while we can’t deny that Jozi is facing some tough times, the people of this city are proving that they won’t sit idly by. They are stepping up, taking action, and inspiring others to do the same. And in that, there is hope.
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