civic engagement Archives - Cape Town Today

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Nature

Navigating Change: Cape Town’s Urban Vision in a Digital Age

July 28, 2025

Cape Town is using digital meetings to bring its people together and talk openly about big city challenges like rapid growth and protecting nature. The city fights to save its wetlands, coastline, and urban forests while battling invasive pests that harm trees. At the same time, Cape Town is fixing up neighborhoods and planning smart, mixeduse spaces that balance homes, jobs, and green areas. With strong rules and shared voices, the city aims to grow in a way that keeps both people and the environment healthy and connected.

Events

Celebrating Ombuds Day: The Unseen Pillars of Urban Governance

by Zola Naidoo

October 15, 2024

Ombuds Day is here, shining a light on the City Ombudsman, a key figure in making sure city problems are heard and solved. This special day, celebrated every October, reminds everyone how important it is for citizens to share their complaints and for the city to listen. With the theme “Here to Hear You,” the Ombudsman encourages open discussions and helps people feel safe when voicing their concerns. Throughout the month, fun events will bring the Ombudsman closer to the community, showing that everyone’s voice matters in making the city a better place.

Events

Empowering Citizens: Cape Town’s Initiative on the Promotion of Access to Information Act

by Aiden Abrahams

September 28, 2024

Cape Town is shining a light on citizens’ rights with its exciting PAIA awareness campaign at the Civic Centre. This event is all about teaching people how to access public information and encouraging them to get involved in their local government. With fun presentations and helpful city staff, attendees will learn how to use the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) to make their voices heard. It’s a wonderful step towards a more informed and engaged community, reminding everyone that knowledge is power!

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News

South African Parliament: The Meeting Place for Democracy and Governance

by Isabella Schmidt

July 21, 2024

The South African Parliament is the heart of democracy in South Africa, promoting unity and active citizen participation. This week, it will host a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will respond to the debate on his Parliament Opening Address. The event will take place in a makeshift chamber in a parking lot, showcasing the adaptability of democratic processes and ensuring media coverage and public participation. The Parliament plays a significant role in shaping the dynamic landscape of South African politics, with prominent individuals like Mr. Vuyolwethu Zungula representing the nation’s values.

News

A New Dawn: South Africa’s Electoral Reform Consultation Panel

by Michael Jameson

February 20, 2024

South Africa’s Electoral Reform Consultation Panel was formed to investigate possible electoral system reforms. Its mission is to conduct independent investigations, consultations, and reporting while operating with exceptional diligence and integrity. The Panel conducts a public consultation process and ultimately submits a report to the Minister on potential electoral reform options. The process is rooted in transparency and public participation, with the possibility of public nominations and an emphasis on collaboration.

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News

A Flourishing Era of Civic Engagement in Cape Town

by Zola Naidoo

December 11, 2023

Cape Town is currently experiencing a surge in civic engagement due to active democracy and citizen participation. Over two thousand comments and submissions were received during the public participation period for marine outfalls and wastewater treatment permits, showing an exceptional engagement of citizens. This surge in public involvement highlights the importance of dialogue, discussion, and debate in shaping more representative and inclusive policies, and presents a hopeful outlook for environmental stewardship and democratic governance.