Johannesburg was built upon a reef of gold. The lustrous treasure pulses through the city’s veins — it’s what brought European prospectors to this part of South Africa in the late 19th century.

South Africa’s largest city is now on its sixth different mayor in 22 months. While politicians argue over power, residents struggle with dry taps, heaps of garbage and dilapidated buildings.

A resident vocalist Mbalizethu Siluma performs at The Marabi Club in downtown Johannesburg, South Africa, Friday, May 9, 2025. Credit: AP/Themba Hadebe. By The Associated PressMay 11, 2025.