South Africa's future hinges on its local governments. Ever wondered why Gauteng's unemployment rate is 75% higher than that of the Western Cape? Or why nearly half of all jobs created in the last two quarters have been in the DA-led Western Cape? Or why Johannesburg's unemployment rate is 35% higher than Cape Town’s, even though more people continue to move to the Mother City and away from the City of Gold?
The answer is clear: competent local government matters. This is not an accident.
Take Johannesburg, for example. Despite its vast resources, it struggles to keep basic services running, such as traffic lights. Meanwhile, down the road in Midvaal, a DA-run municipality, progress is being made towards energy independence, with plans to break free from Eskom. Midvaal also stands as a model of good governance in Gauteng, achieving its 10th successive clean audit and attracting over R1.3 billion in investment under DA Mayor Peter Teixeira’s leadership. This is a direct result of competent governance—something the ANC-run municipalities, including Johannesburg, have sorely failed to provide.
Why does this matter for South Africa? Because good governance drives growth. Businesses want to invest in municipalities that offer reliable services, quality infrastructure, and a transparent, accountable administration. The Western Cape and Midvaal are prime examples of how good local government attracts investments, creates jobs, and fosters a better quality of life. In contrast, municipalities that fail to deliver essential services—like Johannesburg, where residents often face power outages and service interruptions—are a barrier to economic development. Without reliable local governments, businesses hesitate to invest, and the prospects of job creation dim.
The importance of good governance is even more evident when looking at the state of national government failure. Remember when President Ramaphosa had to apologise at the G20 summit because of South Africa’s embarrassing state of decay? While the country’s leaders presented a dilapidated infrastructure, DA-run municipalities like Cape Town were able to shield South Africans from two stages of ANC-led load shedding, proving that local government can work.
Local government is the frontline of effective governance. It is here where services should be delivered to the people in line with the Constitution, and where the difference is felt and seen most directly. Local governance is where communities experience the tangible outcomes of leadership—whether that’s in the form of a working road, a new park, or the simple assurance that their water supply will be consistent.
Being a councillor is not an easy job. It comes with immense responsibility and the pressure of ensuring residents’ needs are met, but it is also incredibly rewarding. It is about making a real difference in people's lives and showing them that effective, ethical leadership can bring about change. The DA is proud to offer the chance for individuals committed to good governance to step forward and become the leaders South Africa needs.
Local government is about more than just managing services—it is the foundation of economic growth and the key to unlocking a prosperous future for all South Africans. If we are to change the trajectory of our country, we need competent, ethical local governments that can deliver. The DA has shown that it’s possible. Now, it’s up to all of us to make sure every community can thrive.
The 2026 Local Government Elections are an opportunity to shift South Africa towards a future of growth, stability, and opportunity. Apply to become a candidate today and be part of the solution. Visit candidate-apply.da.org.za to learn more.
The views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views of the Daily Voice or Independent Media