WITH the 2026 local government elections set for November 4, Durban North activist Sam Reddy said there are still 800 residents who need to be found and assisted to register, or correctly update their voting details, ahead of the IEC’s voter registration weekend in June.

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Dubbed the “Durban North Missing 1000” campaign, the community-driven initiative was launched after volunteers identified more than 1000 residents who were either not registered to vote or registered incorrectly.

According to Reddy, about 200 people have already been assisted, but hundreds more still need to be reached.

The campaign aims to encourage residents to check their registration details, assist family members and neighbours, and ensure first-time voters are ready to make their mark at the polls.

“For me every vote is a voice and it really does matter. When people don’t vote, they’re leaving decisions about their lives to someone else. When we as a community show up, that’s when we can make change happen,” said Reddy.

He said many residents had moved into the area but had not updated their voting details, while a large number of young people who recently turned 18 had yet to register.

“There are a lot of people who have moved into the area and haven’t updated their registration. On top of that, there are so many young people who’ve just turned 18 and have not registered as yet. This is a huge part of our future sitting on the sidelines,” he said.

Reddy added that the campaign was about restoring faith in civic participation.

“Our community often feels disconnected, like their voice doesn’t count. But it only counts when you’re registered and ready to make your mark. Real change starts when people show up, and that starts with registering. It takes less than 60 seconds,” he said.

Residents are encouraged to check their details, assist others in their households, and spread awareness within the community. People can also submit their details directly to the campaign via WhatsApp 070 415 1712 or through an online form which can be obtained through the WhatsApp line.

The campaign comes as the Electoral Commission prepares for its national voter registration weekend in June ahead of the November elections.

According to government information, voters can confirm or update their details online through the IEC registration portal, by SMSing their ID number to 32810, or by visiting their nearest IEC office.

Durban North resident Matthew Brackenbury, who previously spoke to Northglen News about the importance of active citizenship, also urged residents not to sit out this year’s election.

Brackenbury, who has a hearing disability, said voting was one of the few ways communities could push for meaningful change and representation.

He encouraged especially young voters and people who recently relocated to ensure their registration details were accurate before election day.

“People often think their vote won’t make a difference, but if communities don’t participate, decisions are made without them. It’s important that people register, show up in November and make their voices heard,” he said.

Brackenbury previously told Northglen News he had always taken a keen interest in politics and believed more needed to be done to create opportunities for young people and persons with disabilities.

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