Democracy Development Program (DDP) Capacity Building Workshops – March & April 2025
The Democracy Development Program (DDP) hosted two impactful Capacity Building Workshops aimed at strengthening the role of political parties, civil society, and public participation in South Africa’s democratic landscape. These sessions were held at the Edward Hotel, with the first workshop taking place on 13 March 2025 and the second on 24 April 2025, both running from 08:00 to 14:00.
Facilitated by Professor Mngomezulu from the Centre for the Advancement of Non-Racialism and Democracy (CANRAD) at Nelson Mandela University, the workshops provided a dynamic and interactive platform for participants to engage in critical discussions and collaborative activities. Professor Mngomezulu guided attendees through a series of thought-provoking sessions designed to deepen their understanding of democratic engagement and foster stronger collaboration among key societal stakeholders.
These workshops served as a crucial platform for political parties and civic activists to reflect on the growing disconnect between the electorate and democratic institutions, particularly at the local government level. Participants explored the root causes of voter apathy, including:
- Poor service delivery
- Corruption
- Lack of public trust in institutions
By addressing these challenges, the workshops emphasized the urgent need for grassroots mobilization and effective public participation. A key message was that revitalizing South Africa’s democracy requires more than engagement during election periods—it demands sustained, inclusive efforts to involve citizens in everyday governance processes.
Through this collaborative learning space, participants were equipped with practical strategies to:
- Restore democratic legitimacy
- Promote accountable, community-centered leadership
- Strengthen the role of civil society in holding institutions accountable
- Foster inclusive dialogue between political actors and the communities they serve
The DDP’s initiative underscores the importance of capacity building as a tool for democratic renewal, empowering local leaders and activists to become catalysts for change in their communities.
