The uMkhanyakude District Municipality, under the leadership of His Worship the Mayor, Cllr Siphile Mdaka, has successfully hosted the two-day Local Government Communications Forum (LGCF) at the uMkhanyakude Council Chamber in Mkhuze.
The forum, which commenced on 03 September and concluded on 04 September 2026, was convened by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in partnership with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), under the theme "Inspiring New Hope."
The primary objective of the forum was to enhance coordination between provincial and local government communicators and to ensure a unified, consistent message to the public.
Key topics deliberated upon included:
- The critical role of research in strengthening communication work;
- The strategic use of social media influencers to amplify government messaging
- Understanding and countering misinformation and disinformation.
On Day Two, insightful presentations were delivered by CoGTA and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). CoGTA presented on the management of public protests and the pivotal role communicators play in such instances. As 2026 marks the Local Government Elections year, the IEC briefed delegates on the role of communications in the elections and on its state of readiness, emphasizing the need for communicators to intensify voter education and underscore the importance of voting.
The intensive two-day programme empowered communicators with practical tools to enhance government messaging, ensure rapid response to community concerns, and effectively counter misinformation. Delegates also exchanged experiences, shared best practices, and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration between district municipalities and the province in preparation for the forthcoming Local Government Elections.
The forum concluded on a high note, with a collective resolution that communicators will continue to work in unison to ensure that all communities across KwaZulu-Natal receive consistent, credible, accurate and timely information.
ENDS
Issued by: uMkhanyakude District Municipality - Communications Unit
Head of Communications: Ms Nonhlanhla Jele
