Digital Platforms, Youth Representation, and Policy Advocacy in South African Municipal Governance: A Study of Vhembe and Capricorn District Municipalities, Limpopo Province

Paul Mudau; Wonder Juniper

doi:10.25159/2663-6689/20776

Authors

Paul Mudau University of South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8696-7495
Wonder Juniper University of Limpopo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1668-916X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6689/20776

Keywords:

digital platforms, youth representation, policy advocacy, local government, youth participation, participatory democracy

Abstract

Digital platforms have become important tools for enhancing youth representation and policy advocacy within South African municipal governance. This study, focusing on Vhembe and Capricorn District Municipalities in Limpopo Province, addresses ongoing challenges such as youth disengagement, low voter turnout, and limited influence in municipal decision-making processes. The research aims to deepen understanding of how digital technologies can amplify youth voices and support more inclusive policy advocacy, thereby strengthening youth democratic participation at the local level. Using a qualitative research design, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with youth activists, policymakers, and technology experts to explore perceptions and experiences related to digital engagement in local governance. The theoretical framework is grounded in participatory democracy and digital inclusion theories, which guide analysis of the intersections between technology, youth engagement, and policy influence. Findings reveal that digital platforms offer significant opportunities for youth to participate in municipal governance and advocate for policy change. However, challenges such as the digital divide and unequal access to technology constrain these opportunities. The study underscores the need for targeted policies to address these disparities and promote equitable access to digital resources. The implications of this research are relevant to policymakers, civil society, and electoral management bodies, highlighting the importance of integrating technology-driven approaches to foster meaningful youth participation in local governance. By focusing on South Africa, the study contributes to broader discussions on democratic renewal and socio-political inclusion, offering practical recommendations to empower young citizens through technology.

Author Biography

Paul Mudau, University of South Africa

Dr Paul Mudau is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Public, Constitutional and International Law at the University of South Africa (Unisa). Dr Mudau is an Associate Editor of the Southern African Public Law Journal; and an Editorial Board member of the Turf Law Journal. He is the Founder and Project Leader of the Civic and Voter Education Law Project (CVELP) at Unisa. He was born in Musina, Limpopo Province, where he attended at Makushu Primary School and later went to Musina High School. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Limpopo; a Master of Laws (LLM) in Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa jointly from the University of Pretoria and Makerere University, Uganda; a Master of Laws (LLM) in Law, State and Multilevel Government from the University of the Western Cape; and a PhD in Law from the University of the Witwatersrand. Dr Mudau's doctoral research was entitled: "The Role of Local Government in Achieving Spatial Equity Through the Realisation of the Right to Housing in South Africa". His specialised areas of research interests include local government law, decentralisation, human rights law, democracy and elections, and constitutional law.

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