South Africa

As South Africans prepare to vote on 4 November 2026 in the 2026 Local Government Elections, each eligible voter has an opportunity and a responsibility to help shape their community's future. The mark on a ballot paper may be small, but it carries profound meaning. It is a peaceful expression of our democratic will and active citizenship, and a direct contribution to local government.

With just days to go to the Local Government Elections (LGE), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has urged every registered voter to prioritise the election and help choose ethical, capable and accountable leaders who will shape the future of local government.

South Africa and the Netherlands have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening water management in South Africa with the signing of a Declaration of Intent to advance the Blue Deal partnership into Phase III.

The Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of African horse sickness (AHS) in a single horse on a property in the Cederberg Local Municipality in the Western Cape, prompting movement restrictions and intensified surveillance to contain the disease.

Lonehill Dam in Fourways, Johannesburg, is showing signs of ecological recovery following a community-led rehabilitation project that has improved water quality, cleared aquatic weeds and brought wildlife back to the area.

Social Development Minister Dina Pule has called for stronger measures to protect older persons from abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination, saying their rights and dignity must be upheld through sustained action.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) says it is operationally ready to ensure safe and peaceful 2026 Local Government Elections, with increased deployments planned, specialised units on standby and additional security measures in place.

Farmers at Mgxabakazi Farming in Port St Johns are set to improve agricultural production and expand their operations following a R1.5 million investment in farming equipment by the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture.

South Africans are urged to do their part in protecting the integrity of election-related news by reporting misinformation they spot as the country moves towards the Local Government Elections (LGE) on 4 November.

The implementation if Operation Vulindlela structural reforms continue to gather pace across several sectors.