Inclusive voices shape Joburg’s IDP engagements

The Integrated Development Plan (IDP) engagements at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre on 22 April brought together two important constituencies, persons with disabilities and the youth, each contributing insights to shape Johannesburg's 2026/2027 development priorities.

The dedicated session for persons with disabilities created a platform for residents to share lived experiences and highlight barriers affecting their daily lives. Chaired by Council Speaker Cllr Margaret Arnolds, the meeting placed inclusivity at the centre of the City's planning process.

Addressing attendees, MMC for Finance, Deputy Executive Mayor and Acting Executive Mayor Cllr Loyiso Masuku described the IDP as a collective roadmap for the city. She emphasised that meaningful development requires collaboration between the City and its residents.

“This plan is about working with the people to build a Johannesburg that works for everyone," she said, while acknowledging gaps in service delivery and the need for continued improvement.
Participants raised a range of concerns, including limited access to adult education and training centres, the shortage of sign language interpreters, and barriers to accessing municipal services. One attendee highlighted the challenges faced by deaf residents, noting that communication gaps often make it difficult to navigate basic processes.

Economic inclusion also featured strongly, with calls for improved access to employment, business opportunities and funding support. Housing concerns were raised, including delays in the allocation of accessible units intended for persons with disabilities. Attendees further emphasised the need for stronger feedback mechanisms to ensure accountability and transparency in the IDP process.

In a separate but related session on April 21, young people also gathered at the same venue to engage with the draft IDP and Budget. Their input reflected concerns about unemployment, access to opportunities and the need for more visible and effective youth development programmes.

Cllr Masuku highlighted that the Youth Directorate's budget would prioritise skills development, entrepreneurship, mental health, and substance abuse interventions, while promoting youth participation in the economy.

However, many young attendees expressed frustration with limited access to information about City programmes. Issues such as high unemployment, crime and substance abuse were raised as urgent challenges affecting young people across communities.

Some participants called for stronger local economic participation, while others highlighted the need to repurpose hijacked buildings into functional youth hubs. Concerns around transparency and access to opportunities were also raised, alongside calls for safer and more accessible public spaces.

Across both engagements, a common message emerged: residents want to be heard and to see tangible outcomes from their participation. The City reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening engagement and ensuring that community voices are not only included but actively shape Johannesburg's development path.

As consultations continue, the focus remains on building a more inclusive, responsive and people-centred city.

Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph and Tinyiko Ngobeni
22/04/2026

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