Learning Exchange: Leveraging Democratic Participation and the 2026 Local Election to Advance Equitable Access to Land and Housing

This past week, Ndifuna Ukwazi had the privilege of hosting a Regional Learning Exchange, focusing on leveraging democratic participation and the upcoming 2026 local elections to advance equitable access to land and housing. The exchange brought together a diverse group of land activists from across the SADC region, including representatives from the Landless People’s Movement of Namibia, the Swatini United Democratic Front, Abahlali baseMjondolo from Durban and Thembelihle Crisis Committee and Abahlali BaseFreedom Park, and Thembelihle Village in Johannesburg, and comrades from India, as well as leaders from the Solidarity Space in Cape Town.

For 30 years, our movements have tirelessly advocated for land and housing justice across Southern Africa. Yet, despite our relentless efforts, the region continues to grapple with a severe housing crisis, compounded by a lack of political will and the escalating impacts of climate change. This Learning Exchange was a timely reminder of the urgency with which we must address these challenges and the power of collaboration and meaningful solidarity in disrupting the status quo and reclaiming democracy from the clutches of capital.

The exchange was not just about strategy, it was also a springboard to strengthen our collective resolve and build deeper collaborations. Together, we are working towards a future where land is recognised as a fundamental right for all, paving the way for a more equitable society.

A special thanks to My Vote Counts for their insightful session on reclaiming democracy from the grassroots level, to Inside Out for facilitating a much-needed mental health session for our leaders. These contributions were invaluable in equipping us with the tools to sustain our activism and well-being and Eh!woza for always centring storytelling in our activism!