Civic engagement combined with an innovative solar lighting concept from LEDVANCE has made the Nelson Mandela Bridge – one of South Africa’s most important landmarks – safe and visible once again. In just three weeks, LEDVANCE, one of the world’s leading providers of general lighting, transformed the iconic yet dilapidated bridge in the heart of Johannesburg into a shining beacon. The ambitious project not only enhanced safety but also set a strong example of how urban spaces can be revitalized with sustainable energy solutions.

The Nelson Mandela Bridge is an iconic landmark of Johannesburg.

Completed in 2003, the Nelson Mandela Bridge is both a symbol of change and a vital link between the university district and public transport. But vandalism and years of neglect had turned it into an unsafe place. Ninety-eight percent of its railing glass had been destroyed, while cables and luminaires were stolen. After nightfall, many residents no longer felt safe crossing the bridge. That changed with the support of Jozi My Jozi, a civic movement dedicated to creating a safer and more livable city. LEDVANCE was chosen as a key partner for the bridge’s renovation and modernization, contributing its extensive expertise in large-scale public lighting projects.

Smart lighting solutions combining sustainability, efficiency, and safety
Given the poor condition of the bridge, the entire lighting infrastructure had to be rebuilt from scratch. Considering Johannesburg’s frequent power outages, LEDVANCE designed a solar-powered lighting concept. Stephan Foot, Project Sales Manager at LEDVANCE and a proud Johannesburg resident, explained: “In total, we installed 610 of our 60-watt solar-powered LED streetlight luminaires, each delivering 11,000 lumens. Two structural engineers were brought in to ensure the bridge could bear the additional lighting units, each weighing 14 kilograms.

Despite these challenges, we completed the entire project in just three weeks – a true testament to our team’s efficiency and technical expertise.” The system’s dual-sided solar panels maximize sun exposure even in a skyline dominated by high-rise buildings. Combined with smart controls, the luminaires can operate for up to three nights without recharging, even under difficult lighting conditions. RGB illumination by Dutch lighting specialist OneEightyOne with a precise 8° beam angle highlights each suspension cable individually, creating a striking nighttime cityscape. Safety was also reimagined: every luminaire is equipped with a tracking module for real time monitoring, triggering an instant alarm in case of theft attempts. Additional protective grids and a secured control room beneath the bridge ensure long-term functionality and protection.

Bea Swanepoel, CEO of Jozi my Jozi, added: “When the power goes out in Johannesburg today, the Nelson Mandela Bridge often remains the city’s only brightly lit landmark. The project’s successful completion in just three weeks has also been widely covered in South African media.”

LEDVANCE’s commitment to South Africa doesn’t stop here. Further solar lighting projects are already planned for Johannesburg and other cities across the country.

(Photo credit: LEDVANCE)

TrendForce 2025 Global LED Lighting Market Trend- Database and Player Strategies
1. Database and Player Strategies
Release Date: 15 February 2025 / 15 August 2025
Format: PDF and Excel
Language: Traditional Chinese / English
2. LED Lighting Market Dynamics Monthly Report
Release Date: 20th of Every Month
Format: PDF
Language: Traditional Chinese / English