CDE executive director Ann Bernstein speaks to Newzroom Afrika about why fixing Johannesburg must be treated as a national priority. While she believes the city can be turned around, Bernstein argues that the scale of its decline means expertise from outside politics will be needed to support its recovery. Highlighting Johannesburg’s importance to the national economy, she warns: “This is the most important gateway to the world economy. So if we cannot fix Johannesburg and we can’t get our act together to make this a success, then this country is in serious trouble.” She also emphasises the importance of the 4 November local government elections, urging residents to “vote with the interest of the city and themselves in mind”. The interview follows the launch of CDE’s Johannesburg Matters series.