Democracy Development Program NPC

A smooth Election Day starts long before the first voter arrives.

Behind every voting station is a team of election officials with specific responsibilities to make sure the voting process is organised, efficient and credible.

The 2026 LGE includes roles like Presiding Officer, Deputy Presiding Officer, Queue Walker, Door Controller, Voters’ Roll Officer/VMD Operator, Inker, Ballot Paper Issuer and Ballot Box/Booth Controller.

Each role forms part of a larger system designed to support voters and protect the integrity of the process.

Get Up. Show Up. Vote.

[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.

Congratulations to our partners at EmpowerU Community Development Institute, who recently celebrated their 10-Year Anniversary.

We celebrate this significant milestone and commend you for a decade of meaningful work and contribution to community development. It has been an honour and a privilege to walk this journey alongside you.

We value our partnership and look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared learning.

Here’s to another 10 years of meaningful community development.

Say No to GBVF. Together, we can end gender-based violence and femicide, protect survivors, respect women and girls, and build safer, stronger communities for everyone.

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[We've been busy]
The Democracy Development Program (DDP) was proud to be part of the Steve Biko Institutional Public Lecture at Nelson Mandela University, hosted by the Centre for the Advancement of Non-Racialism and Democracy (CANRAD).

Held under the theme “Re-Africanisation of Knowledge Systems and Governance for Liberation,” the lecture provided an important platform for critical dialogue and reflection on African knowledge systems, governance, identity, and the enduring legacy of Steve Biko.

DDP’s Senior Programmes Officer, Sphamandla Mhlongo, contributed to the programme as a facilitator, helping to create space for meaningful dialogue and engagement.

The evening was further enriched by a powerful cultural performance that celebrated African heritage and identity.

Here are a few moments from the event👇

On International Day of Democracy, we celebrate the power of citizens to shape their future. Let us strengthen participation, uphold accountability, protect rights, and build inclusive institutions that advance peaceful, just and prosperous societies for all.

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[Social Cohesion Conference | Sphumelele Community Hall]

The Democracy Development Programme (DDP) convened a Social Cohesion Conference at Sphumelele Community Hall, bringing together community members, representatives from different political parties and other local stakeholders for an important dialogue on strengthening social cohesion and democratic participation ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.

The conference provided a platform for diverse voices to come together, engage constructively on issues affecting their communities, and reflect on the importance of peaceful political participation, tolerance and respect for differing views as South Africa prepares for the 2026 Local Government Elections.

As communities prepare to exercise their democratic rights, creating spaces for open dialogue across political and social differences remains essential to building informed, inclusive and cohesive communities.

Through initiatives such as these, DDP continues to create spaces that encourage dialogue, active citizenship and meaningful participation in democratic processes.
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We are proud to have Sphamandla Mhlongo, Senior Programmes Officer at Democracy Development Programme (DDP), serving as a facilitator at the Steve Biko Institutional Public Lecture (IPL) at Nelson Mandela University.

The lecture, themed “Re-Africanisation of Knowledge Systems and Governance for Liberation,” creates an important space for critical dialogue on African knowledge systems, governance, and the ongoing pursuit of liberation.

📅 Friday, 11 September 2026
⏰ 18:00 – 20:00
📍 South Campus Auditorium, Nelson Mandela University

[A Message to Our Media Partners]

The DDP would like to extend its sincere appreciation to our media partners for their continued collaboration and support in amplifying our work and creating spaces for meaningful public dialogue.

From community workshops and civic education initiatives to election-related programmes and public conversations, your platforms play an important role in ensuring that information reaches communities and that diverse voices are heard.

We value these partnerships and the role you continue to play in strengthening democracy, promoting active citizenship and encouraging informed participation.

Join DDP’s very own Dr. Paul Kariuki, International Relations Expert & Researcher, on The Voice of the Cape today at 12:30 PM on 91.3 FM for a thought-provoking discussion on “China and Egypt’s Strategic Partnership: Insights and Reflections.”

The conversation will explore the evolving China–Egypt relationship and its broader implications for Africa and the global geopolitical landscape.