---
title: "Johannesburg deserves better - Redi Tlhabi on the city's lost potential and its future"
description: "In this episode of The Readiness Report, Redi Tlhabi reflects on Johannesburg, a city rich in promise, the economic heart of southern Africa, yet held back by poor leadership and indifference. 'You can modernise it, clean it up, put in all the cosmetic fixes you want. But without vision, and without people who care, Johannesburg will not thrive,' she laments."
type: "NewsArticle"
publisher: "Daily Maverick"
site: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za"
section: "THE READINESS REPORT"
author: "Redi Tlhabi"
author_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/author/redi-tlhabi/"
canonical_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-10-29-johannesburg-deserves-better-redi-tlhabi-on-the-citys-lost-potential-and-its-future/"
published: "2025-10-29T20:52:03"
updated: "2025-10-31T05:31:33"
lang: "en-ZA"
word_count: 47
---

# Johannesburg deserves better - Redi Tlhabi on the city's lost potential and its future

> In this episode of The Readiness Report, Redi Tlhabi reflects on Johannesburg, a city rich in promise, the economic heart of southern Africa, yet held back by poor leadership and indifference. 'You can modernise it, clean it up, put in all the cosmetic fixes you want. But without vision, and without people who care, Johannesburg will not thrive,' she laments.

By Redi Tlhabi · Published 29 October 2025, 22:52 SAST · Updated 31 October 2025, 07:31 SAST

## Key points
- In a captivating blend of wit and insight, Redi Tlhabi and Rebecca Davis navigate the tumultuous waters of current affairs, proving that even amidst chaos, a sharp tongue and keen mind can make sense of the madness.
- The latest episode of The Readiness Report features host Redi Tlhabi in conversation with guest Rebecca Davis.
- The discussion delves into pressing societal issues, highlighting the importance of informed dialogue.
- Produced by Emilie Gambade and Joel Seboa, the episode emphasizes the role of journalism in democracy.
- Support for the show is encouraged through the Maverick Insider program, promoting independent reporting.

## Content

[YouTube video: "YouTube video"](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Njh1RNCW6RA)

[Media](https://player.simplecast.com/ba647a36-a5be-477b-bee3-0567e6065574?dark=false)

**The Readiness Report is supported by**

![Image](https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NinetyOne_Protea-Red_IFAWOC_HEXlogo_91.png)

**Hosted** by Redi Tlhabi
**Guest** Rebecca Davis
**Produced by** Emilie Gambade & Joel Seboa
**Original Theme Music & Design**by Bernard Kotze

Support journalism that protects democracy. Become a [Maverick Insider](https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/insider/).
Subscribe to Daily Maverick [YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@DailyMaverickSA). @dailymaverickchannel. **DM**