2026 Local Government Elections: Can the Next Government Finally Empower South Africa's Small Businesses? | InsightJoziNews.org

By Noko Maleka

Johannesburg | 19 July 2026

Three years ago, I wrote an opinion article arguing that South Africa's economic system had become one that systematically deprived black-owned small businesses of opportunities to grow. Sadly, as I write this in 2026, my sentiments remain largely unchanged.

The names of governments, ministers and political leaders may change, but for many entrepreneurs in Johannesburg's inner city, the daily struggle remains painfully familiar. Access to finance is limited, procurement processes are often viewed as inaccessible, red tape continues to frustrate innovation, and many promising businesses close their doors before they are given a fair chance to compete.

As South Africa prepares for the 2026 Local Government Elections, voters are once again presented with an opportunity to decide who will govern our municipalities. These elections will be the first municipal elections held since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU), making them particularly significant for the country's democratic journey. 

The question is not whether the ANC, DA, EFF, or any other political party deserves power.

The real question is:

Which government will create an environment where entrepreneurs can succeed because of their ideas—not because of political connections?

South Africa does not lack talented entrepreneurs. Every day in Hillbrow, Berea, Yeoville, Braamfontein and across Johannesburg, innovative young people launch businesses despite enormous obstacles. What they need is not endless promises during election campaigns. They need municipalities that issue trading permits efficiently, maintain clean and safe business districts, fight corruption, support township and inner-city enterprises, and create conditions where investment is welcomed rather than discouraged.

Political parties will spend the coming months asking for votes.

Entrepreneurs should ask political parties tougher questions:

How will you make municipal procurement transparent?

How will you reduce corruption?

How will you support township and inner-city businesses?

How will you attract investment that creates sustainable jobs?

How will you make cities safer for businesses and customers?

These are the questions that matter.

No single political party has a monopoly on good ideas. Likewise, no party should receive blind loyalty. Democracy works best when leaders are held accountable for their promises and judged by measurable results rather than campaign slogans.

As a journalist who has spent years documenting the realities of Johannesburg's inner city, I remain hopeful. Hope is not based on political colours but on the possibility that voters will choose leaders committed to ethical governance, service delivery and economic inclusion.

If the next local government—whether led by the GNU, the ANC, the DA, the EFF or any other coalition—creates an environment where small and medium enterprises can thrive, South Africa will not simply create more businesses. It will create more jobs, restore dignity and rebuild confidence in our economy.

The success of South Africa's future will not be measured only by election victories. It will be measured by whether ordinary entrepreneurs are finally given a fair opportunity to succeed.

The future of South Africa depends not only on who wins the election, but on whether those elected choose to govern for all who dream of building businesses, creating jobs and contributing to our nation's prosperity