The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) is turning to television, music, and popular culture to get more young people to the voting stations ahead of November’s local government elections. 

The 10-part series, Beats for My Peeps, premiered on SABC 1 on Wednesday (June 3). 

According to the IEC, the series seeks to educate young people about their electoral rights and responsibilities while highlighting the importance of their voices in shaping the future of their communities. 
 
The IEC says the initiative aims to bridge information gaps, stimulate civic engagement and foster a culture of active citizenship among first-time voters and young adults. 

“The launch of Beats for My Peeps forms part of a wider effort by the Electoral Commission to make electoral information accessible, relevant and engaging for younger audiences by meeting young people where they are and speaking in a language and format that resonates with them,” explains Sy Mamabolo, the chief electoral officer of the IEC. 

He says the programme seeks to strengthen democratic participation and encourage a new generation of active citizens. 

“We are excited to launch the show. To us, this is more than just entertainment. As a commission, we are concerned about the participation of young people in electoral matters and this investment is part of our contribution to help address this growing challenge,” said Moagisi Letlhaku, the IEC general manager for civic and democracy education and research. 

The IEC has urged youth to register to vote during the national voter registration weekend on June 20 and 21. 

* If you want to register or check your details, get your identity document ready and visit registertovote.elections.org.za 

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