Women's Representation in Local Government Declines Ahead of 2026 Elections

As South Africa prepares for the 2026 local government elections, a concerning trend in women's representation in city councils has emerged. The decline is closely linked to the dynamics of political coalition formation. This issue extends beyond political discourse, directly impacting community services such as infrastructure and water supply. From 2016 to 2021, women's representation decreased from 41% to 36.9%, marking the first significant drop in over a decade. This raises questions about the nation's commitment to inclusive governance, effective service delivery, and gender equality at a local level.

The Struggle for Equality: Progress Undermined

Since 1994, South Africa has seen women assume roles in local government. However, this progress is now facing setbacks. Despite policies like the National Policy Framework for Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality, achieving more than 40% female representation in council seats has been a challenge in recent elections. This suggests a regression in efforts towards gender parity. While the JSE All Share Index may show daily movements, the critical movement required is within local councils.

Specifically, the number of women in proportional representation (PR) seats decreased from 48% in 2016 to 24.2% in 2021. For ward seats, the figure dropped from 33% to 12.7% during the same period. This substantial reduction coincided with a more than doubling of local coalition governments. According to accord.org.za, there is a clear correlation between these two trends.

Community well-being is often enhanced when women are involved in decision-making, leading to improved policies and a more resilient society. However, women's political influence is currently diminishing, despite women constituting the majority of registered voters in South Africa since 1994. This signals a critical issue across the country, from the busy streets of Johannesburg CBD to the quiet corners of Soweto, where the aroma of street food blends with the sounds of daily life.

Coalition Dynamics: Impact on Women's Representation

The process of political parties forming coalitions, particularly at the local level, complicates efforts towards gender equality. South Africa lacks legislation mandating a specific number of women candidates, leaving the decision to individual parties. This often results in fewer women being selected for positions.

Some parties, such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA, advocate for a 'merit-based' approach, which frequently leads to reduced female representation. Conversely, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have attempted to implement internal systems, such as 'zebra lists' (alternating male and female candidates), to promote women's inclusion. Yet, even with these initiatives, the overall number of women councillors continues to decline.

Gender Equality as "Collateral Damage" in Power Deals

Gender activists and experts express concern that gender equality is often sidelined during coalition negotiations. Women become "collateral damage" in these power plays, as reported by IOL. This situation can be likened to being stuck in N1 traffic while the Gautrain, which offers two distinct train services including an Airport Service and a Commuter Service with integrated car parking facilities, speeds by, inaccessible due to blocked routes. The intensity of negotiations can overshadow the voices that represent community needs.

Service Delivery Implications: The Community Impact

When women are underrepresented in leadership, communities often experience negative consequences. Public dissatisfaction with unstable coalition governments and their impact on essential services is growing. The absence of clear guidelines for coalition operations leads to unstable governments that struggle with service delivery. This translates to issues such as potholes, unreliable water supply, and unsafe streets. For instance, Level 1 water restrictions, prohibiting garden watering and hosepipe use between 6 am and 6 pm, have been in place in Johannesburg since September 1st. Increased female leadership could potentially foster consistent solutions over political disputes.

In 2021, only 39% of senior municipal positions in South Africa were held by women. Out of 257 municipalities, only 25 met the 50% gender equality target set by the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill. This significant disparity means that women's perspectives are often absent from critical decisions that directly affect daily life. The atmosphere in the Johannesburg CBD can feel heavy with unaddressed needs when those who understand them best are not heard. The constant hum of taxis and street vendors fills the air, a reminder of the daily hustle.

Thandiwe Mkhize, a community leader from Soweto, shared with PR Africa, "When women are not at the table, the issues that affect us directly – like water, sanitation, and safety for our children – often get overlooked. We need more women in power to ensure our communities' needs are truly heard and addressed." Her statement underscores the necessity for greater female presence in positions of authority to advocate for community interests.

The Path Forward: Preparing for 2026

The 2026 local government elections, scheduled for November 4, 2026, present an opportunity to address this imbalance. The Electoral Commission of South Africa encourages all citizens, especially women who constitute 55% of registered voters, to participate.

To reverse this trend, political leaders must demonstrate genuine commitment and accountability. This may involve implementing new laws to ensure equitable representation of women. Organisations like Futurelect are actively empowering aspiring women leaders with the necessary skills and networks to contest and win elections in 2026/27. This proactive engagement is crucial.

Political parties must move beyond rhetoric and act decisively on gender equality. Existing frameworks, such as the National Policy Framework for Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality, require rigorous enforcement. It is imperative to safeguard democratic gains. Collaborative efforts are essential for a stronger Africa, ensuring that every voice, particularly women's, is clearly heard. Even with Eskom load reduction remaining a reality for many, the demand for change must persist. The future of communities depends on increased female leadership, from the vibrant streets of Alexandra to the corporate boardrooms of Sandton City. Join the movement for change and make your vote count. Understand the impact of your vote.

-- Originally published on PR Africa.