As South Africa gears up for the 2026 Local Government Elections, residents are being urged to make their voices count by registering to vote or updating their voter details during the national voter registration weekend on June 20 and 21.
From the condition of local roads and the reliability of water supply to refuse collection and community services, decisions taken by municipalities directly affect residents’ daily lives. This weekend offers citizens an opportunity to influence those decisions at the ballot box.
Voting stations across the country will be open from 8am to 5pm on both days, allowing eligible citizens to register for the first time, verify their details, or update their address if they have moved.
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has called on residents, particularly young people, to take part in the democratic process amid concerns about declining voter participation.
SALGA Youth Commission chairperson Lucky Sele said young people cannot afford to remain on the sidelines.
“Young people cannot afford to be absent from decisions that affect jobs, service delivery, accountability and the future of their communities,” he said.
Recent research has shown that more than 60% of unregistered South Africans between the ages of 18 and 34 do not intend to register, a trend SALGA hopes to reverse through targeted awareness campaigns.
Ward 26 Councillor Sharmaine Sewshanker echoed the call, urging residents to take the registration weekend seriously.
“Your vote is your power. If you want a say in who fixes your roads, delivers water and manages your ward, make sure you are registered where you live,” she said.
Sewshanker stressed that municipal elections differ from national elections because voters must cast their ballots at the voting station where they are registered.
“This registration weekend is particularly important because it may be the last opportunity many residents have to ensure their details are correct before the voters’ roll closes. I urge everyone to take this seriously. It’s your chance to have a say in the future of eThekwini,” she said.
She added that special attention is being placed on encouraging youth participation, as many school leavers and first-time voters remain unregistered.
“We are focusing on youth registration, as well as older persons and people living with disabilities. We want everyone who is eligible to be part of the democratic process,” she said.
Residents who have moved, changed addresses, received a new ID number, or whose voting district boundaries have changed are encouraged to update their information.
To register, citizens must present a green barcoded ID book, smart ID card, or a valid Temporary Identity Certificate. South Africans aged 16 and older may register, although only those aged 18 and above may vote.
Sewshanker said eligible voters can register or update their details at George Campbell School, 75 Winder Street, and Addington Primary School. Voting stations will be open from 8am to 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
“I encourage all eligible residents, especially first-time voters and those who have recently moved, to ensure they are correctly registered so they can participate in the 2026 Local Government Elections,” said Sewshanker.
Those unable to visit a voting station can register or update their details online through the IEC voter portal. Residents can also check their voter registration status via the IEC website, by SMSing their ID number to 32810, using the IEC WhatsApp service, or calling the toll-free number 0800 11 8000.
With local government elections set for November 4, 2026, residents are being encouraged not to leave registration until the last minute.
Every vote has the power to influence the future of a community, and this weekend offers residents the opportunity to ensure their voices are heard.
