DGMT

When we think about local government, we often think about roads, electricity, refuse removal and water.

But municipalities shape much more than infrastructure.

They influence whether children can play safely in their neighbourhoods. Whether there are parks, libraries and community facilities nearby. Whether young people have access to opportunities. Whether the neighbourhood has more liquor stores than parks.

We don’t give children a vote, yet local government decisions shape their lives every day.

In the months to come, we’ll continue this conversation through a series of Metro Lives exploring what it takes to build child-friendly communities, kicking off in Cape Town on 21 July 2026. Keep an eye out for more details!