Democracy Development Program NPC

An opportunity not to be missed. Check it out.
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Big dreams don't have to wait until university. The SANRAL High School Scholarship Programme is now open for South African learners in Grades 8–12. If you're ready to invest in your future, now's the time to apply. Applications close 30 September 2026. Click the link to apply https://www.nra.co.za/Scholarships

Yesterday, the Democracy Development Programme (DDP) had the pleasure of hosting students from the Durban University of Technology's Public Relations and Communications Management Department.

The visit provided an opportunity to engage with future communications professionals, share insights into DDP's work in strengthening democracy and active citizenship, and discuss the role of strategic communication in driving social change.

We’re excited to share our knowledge and expertise with the leaders of tomorrow.

It's Official!
The Local Government Election date will be proclaimed on 7 August 2026. But what does this mean for voters?

Once the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) proclaims the election date, the voters' roll will officially close at midnight on 7 August 2026.
What are the implications?

If you are not registered to vote by midnight on 7 August 2026, you will not appear on the certified voters' roll and you will not be able to vote in the upcoming Local Government Elections.

If you are registered but have not updated your residential address, the IEC will use your existing registered address to determine the voting district and voting station where you are eligible to vote. If your address is outdated, you may be assigned to vote in the wrong ward, which could prevent you from voting for the correct ward councillor.

The time to act is now. Check that you are registered and ensure your address is up to date before midnight on 7 August 2026. Every vote counts, but only if you're correctly registered.

Road to the LGE26:

Today, we're hosting the SJI Elections Project in Nhlungwane Community Hall. Here we are bringing communities together to strengthen democratic participation through civic education and meaningful dialogue.

As we prepare for the 2026 Local Government Elections, conversations like these help empower citizens with the knowledge and confidence to participate in shaping the future of their communities.

It's been a busy day of empowering young people!

Today we also joined the Leading Like Mandela: The Road to Liberty programme in partnership with American Corner, Pietermaritzburg and Msunduzi Municipality. We engaged young leaders on democracy, democratic governance and the importance of active citizenship. Together, we're equipping the next generation to lead with integrity and make a positive impact in their communities.

Today's Boys 2 Men Programme brought young people together at Ohlange Library to learn, share experiences, and embrace positive choices for a brighter future. Through open discussions on positive masculinity, mental health, communication, conflict resolution, human rights, and social challenges, participants were empowered to become active and responsible citizens who contribute positively to their communities.

We extend our appreciation to all stakeholders and partners who made this impactful engagement possible: Inanda Youth Crime Prevention Desk (YCPD), eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Community Safety and Liaison, SAPS, DDP, Community Policing Forum (CPF), Youth Desk structures, and all community partners committed to youth development and crime prevention.

Only a few days to go till the final Voter Registration Weekend. Don’t miss your chance to have your voice heard in the upcoming elections.

🚨 4 days to go! 🇿🇦
The countdown to the final voter registration weekend is on, and we are bringing voter registration closer to you!
📅 01–02 August 2026🕗 Voting stations will be open from 08:00 to 17:00
Make sure you're registered and ready to have your say when South Africans head to the polls on 04 November 2026.
✅ Register online: https://registertovote.elections.org.za
📍 Check your correct voting station: https://maps.elections.org.za/vsfinder/
Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Your vote is your voice. Make your mark.

Yesterday, the DDP in collaboration with the Greater Durban Ymca hosted a community Imbizo ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

The purpose of the session was to provide citizens an opportunity to engage, elected officials and those who would be contesting in the elections, about issues affecting their communities and their hope for the future.

The engagement was highly participatory with community members and various political parties contributing to the discussion.

Thank you to all stakeholders who contribute to the success of the engagement.