In a collaborative effort with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the Eastern Cape Home Affairs, the Minister for the Public Service and Administration, Ms. Noxolo Kiviet, launched the voter education weekend outreach by visiting the Hankey community in the citrus-rich Gamtoos Valley, located within the Kouga Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape.

The meeting held in Hankey drew the attention of community members, local leaders, and government officials, all engaging with the Minister on matters concerning their civic rights and responsibilities as well as service delivery matters. Minister Kiviet emphasized the crucial role residents play in strengthening democracy through their active participation in elections, urging them to ensure their correct details are captured in the Voter’s Roll.

Enshrined in the constitution, the right to vote is a fundamental pillar of democracy, and Minister Kiviet made it clear that every eligible citizen should exercise this right. By emphasizing the importance of having accurate information Voter’s Roll, the Minister aimed to empower the residents to actively contribute to the democratic process.

This is not the first time Minister Kiviet has visited the region. In July, she embarked on a similar outreach visit to both the Hankey and Patensie communities. During her previous visit, the Minister raised awareness about the social ills plaguing the farming communities such as Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, and engaged with community stakeholders to receive updates on key projects, such as the progress on the construction of an agricultural school.

The significance of voter education outreach cannot be overstated as it plays a pivotal role in deepening citizen participation, ensuring that every eligible voter understands the processes and importance of voting.

Continuing this vision, Minister Kiviet will further her weekend outreach by visiting the communities of Nomzamo in Humansdorp and Patensie. The outreach efforts will conclude with a visit to the neighbouring town of Thornhill within the Kouga Local Municipality on Monday.

Through these engagements, Minister Kiviet aims to foster a sense of civic duty, community empowerment, and informed decision-making. The voter education outreach plays an integral role and building an engaged, active citizenry.

As the outreach continues, communities can look forward to greater involvement in the democratic process and a stronger commitment to shaping the future of their nation through active voting.