Democracy Development Program

Interdependent. Interrelated. Distinctive. @SphaNjomane unpacks the relationship between South Africa’s three spheres of government. While they must work together and complement one another, interdependence should never become an excuse for poor performance or shifting responsibility. Local government is closest to the people, and accountability for its mandate remains essential.

The DDP partners with TEDx Durban to bring you Democracy - the Tipping Point Stayed tuned to our socials to see what we have in store for you.

And there you have it KZN…this is how the results board will look like on the 4th of November 2026. As results from different voting stations and municipalities begin to trickle in, the board will gradually come to life, giving us a picture of how communities across KwaZulu-Natal have voted. The countdown is on!!!

We are at the launch of the Results Official Centre, where all eyes will soon be on the numbers, the votes and the voice of the people! As South Africa gears up for the 2026 Local Government Elections, the centre will play a key role in bringing election results to the public. Democracy in action, and we are here for it!

What opportunities lie in the growing relationship between Russia and Africa? Join NewsBeat African Mirror on The Voice of the Cape as Dr. Paul Kariuki shares insights on the Russia-Africa Summit and what it means for the continent. 🗓️ Thursday, 29 October 2026 | 12:30 PM #RussiaAfricaSummit #Africa #GlobalRelations

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.