While 28% of registered voters in KwaDukuza are aged between 18 and 35, youth registration is still not growing in line with the area’s rising young population.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is placing strong emphasis on youth participation as planning for the 2026 Local Government Elections continues.

At a recent meeting hosted by the Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (Docrra), the IEC noted that greater effort is needed to reach young people, who are not registering at the same pace as their age group expands.

To close this gap, the commission is conducting civic and democracy education sessions at schools and tertiary institutions across the region.

IEC regional manager Paul Daniel said they had already visited more than 15 high schools and seven colleges, encouraging early registration and helping young people understand the importance of voting.

Daniel said the current municipal councils’ term ends in November 2026, meaning elections must take place between November 2, 2026 and January 30, 2027.

KwaDukuza currently has 30 wards and 59 councillors and this is expected to remain unchanged when the ward delimitation process concludes in October.

Daniel noted another key challenge: identifying suitable voting station venues, as many of the current locations are not appropriate for the number of registered voters.

Partnerships with Docrra will help improve access to estates for registration drives, provide support with voter education and assist in identifying better venues.

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