We couldn’t discuss local government without authentic youth voices. Njabulo Togane shared insights on ward committees, accountability, political partisanship and capacity gaps, emphasising how CSOs can equip aspiring public servants with transferable skills.

[let’s bring this day to a close] As we bring our 2026 Local Government Conference to a close, let’s hear from the DDP’s Senior Programs Officer, Sphamandla Mhlongo as he reflects on today’s discussions and key takeaways. Take a listen.

Our fifth speaker, Nonkululeko Hlongwane Mhlongo from the Garden Bloc, speaks on disaster preparedness and the gaps in disaster management. She highlights how changes in administration and communication breakdowns can stall critical programmes, leaving communities vulnerable. “We must rethink the value of people’s time. We cannot be in constant dialogue without seeing action and tangible results.”

Our fourth speaker, Stuart Talbot from the Denis Hurley Centre highlights the Homeless Persons’ Manifesto and the need for inclusive service delivery. People experiencing homelessness deserve dignity, access to basic services and a voice in decisions affecting their lives.

Bonolo Makgale

Our second speaker, Bonolo Makhaye, discusses municipal administration under coalition governments, emphasising that the phenomenon of coalitions is here to stay. Success must be measured by citizen benefits, service delivery and accountability, not instability alone. #CoalitionGovernments

Our first speaker, Mr Siphephelo Mhlongo, Senior Audit Manager at AGSA, tackles a critical question: What is the state of municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal for 2024/25? Are municipalities meeting the needs of the people they serve? Are public funds translating into better service delivery, accountability and improved living conditions for communities? The conversation on municipal performance, financial management and service delivery starts here.

As South Africa marks 30 years of its Constitution, we must ask: How meaningful are our constitutional rights if they remain out of reach for many? Today, in partnership with the Denis Hurley Centre, we join the #SeeMyFaceHearMyVoice campaign, challenging political parties to address the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness.

Join us today on NewsBeat African Mirror as we unpack the future of Oil Discovery, Exploration and Refining in East Africa. Tune in to 91.3 FM at 12:30 PM and gain valuable insights into the opportunities, challenges, and economic impact of the region's growing energy sector. Featuring expert guest Dr. Paul Kariuki. Informing Minds. Shaping Conversations. Inspiring Action. #NewsBeatAfricanMirror #EastAfrica #OilAndGas #EnergySector #EconomicDevelopment #AfricaRising #VoiceOfTheCape

From Con Hill to Durban! Today, DDP and We The People South Africa are exploring the power of the Constitution, local government and the vote ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. Democracy goes beyond the ballot. It means informed citizens who know their rights and hold elected representatives accountable.

The DDP stands in solidarity with all those advancing women’s empowerment, equality and intergenerational collaboration. Together, we must continue creating spaces where women and girls are heard, valued and empowered to shape the decisions that affect their lives.

The DDP attends the IEC eThekwini Metro Code of Conduct signing, reaffirming the importance of ethical, peaceful and accountable participation in the electoral process. As we approach the 2026 Local Government Elections, DDP remains committed to strengthening democracy and promoting informed, active citizen participation. 🇿🇦

Join Dr. Paul Kariuki as he explores “Shrinking Civic Space in Africa and Its Implications for Democracy” on NewsBeat African Mirror, airing on 91.3 FM today, 8 October 2026 at 12:30. The conversation will unpack the state of civic participation across Africa, the role of civil society in strengthening democracy, and why protecting civic space matters for human rights, good governance and meaningful citizen engagement.

[Happy Heritage Day from the DDP] Today, we celebrate the rich heritage that makes South Africa who we are: our languages, cultures, traditions, histories and the stories that connect us. Our heritage is more than where we come from. It is also about what we carry forward and the kind of society we choose to build together. On this Heritage Day, let us celebrate our differences, honour our shared history and continue creating a South Africa where every voice, culture and community has a place.

How is technology transforming healthcare across Africa? Tune in to NewsBeat African Mirror on 91.3 FM as we unpack the opportunities, innovations, and challenges shaping the future of healthcare on the continent. 🎙️ Guest: Dr. Paul Kariuki 📅 23 September 2026 ⏰ 12:30 PM Join the conversation as we explore how digital health solutions are improving access to care, strengthening health systems, and changing lives across Africa. #NewsBeatAfricanMirror #HealthcareInAfrica #HealthTech #DigitalHealth #Innovation #AfricanHealthcare #VoiceOfTheCape #TechnologyForGood #HealthcareInnovation

[We’ve been busy] DDP was proud to be part of the Steve Biko Institutional Public Lecture at Nelson Mandela University, exploring “Re-Africanisation of Knowledge Systems and Governance for Liberation.” A powerful evening of dialogue, reflection and culture as we continue engaging on democracy, governance and African knowledge systems. @MandelaCanrad

[New Issue | Democracy Delivered] What happens when electoral systems are put under pressure? In Issue 43 of Democracy Delivered, Paul Kariuki explores electoral governance stress tests and their implications for democracy, examining how electoral management bodies, legal frameworks, technology, logistics, civil society and political institutions respond to periods of electoral pressure. Drawing on examples from Kenya, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and South Africa, the article highlights the importance of independent electoral institutions, transparent processes, effective dispute resolution and resilient electoral systems in sustaining public trust and democratic legitimacy.

[Social Cohesion Workshop] The DDP convened a Social Cohesion Conference at Sphumelele Community Hall, bringing together community members and representatives from different political parties to discuss social cohesion, tolerance and peaceful political participation ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount

Can Africa truly achieve a single market while limiting opportunities for African traders? Tune in to NewsBeat African Mirror as we explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the continent's trade future with special guest Dr. Paul Kariuki. 📻 91.3 FM | ⏰ 12:30 PM #AfricanTrade #OneAfricaOneMarket #EconomicIntegration #NewsBeatAfricanMirror #VoiceOfTheCape