Many young South Africans continue to shun the ballot, turning away from the electoral process that will shape their next five years.

Many in Alexandra cite unemployment, poor service delivery, and a host of daily struggles as reasons for their apathy, arguing that these challenges perfectly capture why they see little value in voting. Yet the sombre truth, brought to light during Joburg Crisis Alliance (JCA)’s recent civic education dialogue in Alexandra on May 23, is that their voices and active participation are crucial, not only in determining the future of their communities, but in shaping the priorities of local government itself.

Read more: JCA meeting spurs residents to engage and question leaders before local polls

With the country heading to the local government elections in roughly six months, this non-partisan organisation sought to ensure that young people approach the elections with clear minds, understanding what truly matters to them and what they should expect from the next administration.

The session did not prescribe who residents should vote for, but rather what they should vote for, such as basic service delivery that works. Many participants said, for them, this means clean water without the constant pipe bursts, a reliable supply of electricity without endless outages that plunge households into darkness, proper roads without gaping potholes, and meaningful reductions in crime. These issues, among others, emerged as paramount concerns during the dialogue.

Also read: IFP accuse ANC of moving ballot boxes

Having clearly mapped out their demands, participants left better prepared to meet political parties on the campaign trail with firm expectations and a determination to hold leaders accountable.

“I have learned a lot of things, such as how to elect a mayoral candidate, and how to participate in local government,” resident Mosimaneotsile Boealamang said. “Also, I have learned that we must hold the city accountable and we must hold our councillors accountable.”

JCA co-ordinator Yunus Chamda said he was excited about the strong turnout, particularly the active involvement of young people who led most of the group report-backs. “They are beginning to think about local government, ward councillors, the mayor, and what they expect from political parties.”

He stressed that youth participation is important, especially given the rising voter apathy among young people, which was starkly evident in the low youth turnout recorded in the 2024 national and provincial elections. “Many young people are disillusioned because they think, ‘Why should the youth participate? We are not going to make any changes. The older generation is going to decide anyway’. But that is not true.”

He said given that young people form the majority in Alexandra, their participation could decisively influence election outcomes and help bring in more responsive leadership. A mini-survey of about 40 attendees conducted by JCA revealed deep dissatisfaction with the provision of these basic services in Alexandra. The survey recommended strengthening community engagement, improving municipal communication, and expanding civic education programmes.

Resident Khuliso Monyai found the session particularly valuable. “The meeting was very informative because some of us did not know who we should report our issues to specifically.”

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