Democracy Development Program

Africa’s health security remains at risk. Are we truly prepared for the next pandemic? Join Dr. Paul Kariuki on NEWSBEAT African Mirror as we unpack the urgent realities of Africa’s pandemic preparedness, health sovereignty, and the future of public health on the continent. Tune in this Thursday, 21 May 2026 at 12h30 on 91.3 FM – The Voice of the Cape. Your awareness could save lives. Don’t miss this critical conversation, listen, engage, and be part of Africa’s health future. @VOCfm @kaylanpk @KAS_SouthAfrica

*The DDP at work* The DDP conducted the SJI Civic Education Programme in the uMzinyathi area today, focusing on voter & civic education, skills development, and community participation. Thank you to the @IECSouthAfrica , Ethekwini District Youth Crime Prevention Desk & the @NYDARSA for contributing valuable skills and resources.

We were live on @siyathuthuka Fm 97.6 talking all things local government, the importance of voting and how the electorate can get the best out of their vote #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount #wearevoting

The DDP officially launches its Election Project ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. The initiative seeks to strengthen democratic participation, civic education, ethical leadership, and community engagement through community dialogues and the election observation mission. The project will also help citizens, especially young people, better understand national, provincial, and local political dynamics ahead of #LGE2026. Sphamandla Mhlongo says the project promotes informed democratic participation, active citizenship, and meaningful community engagement. #YourVoteYourVoiceMakeItCount #Democracy

[We were featured] We’re proud to be featured in Democracy Delivered Issue 39 through Paul @kaylanpk Kariuki’s article: “Politics, a Business Model: The Patronage Economy.” The piece explores patronage politics, accountability and democratic reform across Africa. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount @KAS_SouthAfrica @CREDOatSU @

The DDP welcomes the Apex Court’s ruling on the Phala Phala matter as an important step in strengthening constitutional accountability and democratic oversight in South Africa. A healthy democracy depends on transparent institutions, an independent judiciary, and leaders who are accountable to the people. The judgment reminds us that no one is above constitutional scrutiny. @IsolezweNews @dailymaverick @News24 @IOL #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount

Every voice counts, no matter where you live. Read this insightful piece by Zainul Dawood published by IOL> iol.co.za/news/south-afr… It’s time to ensure that even the most vulnerable in our communities have the right to be heard in local government elections. Inclusion isn’t optional, it’s essential. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount #RightToVote #InclusionMatters #DemocracyForAll #LGE26

[Underway] The DDP today hosts the SJI Capacity Building Workshop. The workshop focuses on cooperative governance, public participation, and crime prevention, bringing together civil society organisations and community stakeholders to strengthen democratic engagement and community-led solutions. Workshops of this nature are important for civil society because they create spaces for dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning between communities and institutions. They strengthen the ability of civil society organisations to actively participate in governance processes, advocate for accountability, and contribute meaningfully to safer and more inclusive communities. By building knowledge and capacity around public participation and cooperative governance, the workshop also strengthens civic leadership, social cohesion, and collective action in addressing local challenges such as crime, inequality, and community safety. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount

The President has announced that South Africa’s Local Government Elections are likely to be held on 04 November 2026. What many people may not know is that this date is not yet official. In terms of the law, the official election date must first be formally proclaimed by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, and then published in the Government Gazette. After that, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) will publish the official election timetable with important dates for: • Voter registration • Candidate nominations • Political party lists • Special voting arrangements This announcement is therefore an indication that preparations for the 2026 Local Government Elections are beginning. An informed electorate strengthens democracy. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount

The Democracy Development Program (DDP), in partnership with DUT, hosted an engaging workshop on Student Leadership and the Mobilisation of Electoral and Civic Participation, highlighting the importance of empowering young people to actively participate in democratic processes. The discussions emphasised that meaningful youth participation strengthens accountability, representation, and community development, while civic education equips young people with the knowledge, confidence, and critical thinking needed to make informed decisions and contribute positively to society. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount

NEWSBEAT: African Mirror This week, we unpack the Africa-China trade and ask the tough question: Is the relationship tilted in China’s favour? Live on @VOCfm with Dr. @kaylanpk Paul Kariuki 🗓️ 7 May | ⏰ 12:30 | 📡 91.3 FM

Young people hold the power to shape our democracy. Bongiwe Khumalo unpacks practical strategies for mobilising first‑time voters ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. Read more: ddp.org.za/blog/strategie… @kaylanpk @KAS_SouthAfrica @LadyMtsho

On Thursday, the DDP in collaboration with the Centre for Community Development hosted the LGE Dialogue at Mangosuthu University of Technology. Young people continue to play a vital role in strengthening democracy. The dialogue created space for meaningful conversations around local government elections, civic responsibility, and the power of youth voices in shaping responsive and accountable leadership. #yourvoteyourvoicemakeitcount #WeAreVoting

[Happy International Workers Day] Today, we celebrate the workers who keep our communities and democracy alive. Workers are not just part of the economy, but they are active citizens shaping the future of our country.

Tune in to Newsbeat: African Mirror as we unpack the 12th Session of the African Regional Forum on Sustainable Development. Join the conversation with guest Dr. Paul Kariuki for key insights and lessons shaping Africa’s development journey. 📅 30 April 2026 | ⏰ 12:30 | 📻 91.3 FM @VOCfm @KznLegislature @KAS_SouthAfrica

Day 2 of our Candidate Development Workshop: Today’s sessions build on the foundations laid on Day 1, strengthening political literacy, campaign strategy, and governance readiness for the 2026 Local Government Elections. Focused conversations, critical insights, and practical tools for candidates committed to accountable local leadership. #CandidateDevelopment #LGE2026 #LocalGovernance #YourVoteYourVoice #MakeItCount @LubnaNadvi @SphaNjomane @KAS_SouthAfrica @IECSouthAfrica @eThekwiniM @UKZN @kaylanpk @CentreforCommu1 @AmandlaMedia @GDCoGTA

Day 1 is underway We’re officially launching the Candidate Development Workshop Series - preparing local government candidates to lead with competence, ethics, and accountability ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. 📍The Edward Hotel Durban | #LGE2026 #YourVoteYourVoice #makeitcount #DDP #LeadershipDevelopment #LocalDemocracy @KAS_SouthAfrica @IECSouthAfrica @eThekwiniM @GDCoGTA @ANCKZN @AcdpKzn @Action4SA @inanda884fm

[Happy Freedom Day South Africa]

Democracy starts with participation. Will you be voting in the upcoming local government elections? Have your say by voting in the poll #YourVoteYourVoiceMakeItCount #LGE2026 @IECSouthAfrica @CentreforCommu1 @kaylanpk @KAS_SouthAfrica