Details
On 27 May, KAS in collaboration with CANRAD held the final dialogue on “Voter Turnout among the South African Youth: Opportunities and Challenges” at South End Museum, Gqeberha.
The dialogue was held in preparation for the upcoming the 2026 Local Government Elections Registration Weekend taking place on 21–22 June 2026 and the Local Government Elections scheduled for 4 November 2026. Participants were students from Nelson Mandela University across different campuses, members of youth organisations from Uitenhage and Despatch, as well as learners from Kwezi Lomso High School. The programme encouraged meaningful discussions on the opportunities and challenges that influence youth participation in democratic processes. Through the dialogue, participants were encouraged to reflect on the importance of voting, civic responsibility, and the role of young people in shaping accountable and inclusive governance.
The dialogue successfully created a platform for constructive engagement and exchange of ideas among young people from different backgrounds, institutions, and communities to exchange experiences and perspectives on political participation, youth political engagement, youth leadership, and civic responsibility. By bringing together speakers from diverse backgrounds, including former student leaders, activists, youth advocates, and voter education practitioners, the dialogue offered participants diverse perspectives and practical insights into the barriers and opportunities of youth political participation.
Several participants expressed frustration and mistrust towards political institutions and elected representatives, which reflected broader concerns about governance and service delivery. In some instances, this political disillusionment appeared to discourage confidence in electoral participation. However, rather than weakening the dialogue, these concerns contributed to more honest and critical discussions about the barriers affecting youth voter turnout. As discussions progressed, some participants expressed renewed motivation to become more involved in community activism as well as political engagement.
