The Department of Home Affairs extended operating hours nationwide on 1 and 2 August 2026, opening from 8:00 to 17:00, to support South Africans registering for upcoming local government elections. The measure ensures citizens can apply for and collect Smart ID cards, with more than 370,000 cards currently awaiting collection, according to the department. The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) confirmed 23,706 voting stations are open countrywide to facilitate registration, while the national voters’ roll has grown to 28 million, up from 27.7 million in 2024.

Smart ID Distribution And Government Appeal

Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber said extending hours was essential for democratic participation, stating, “By extending operating hours nationwide during Voter Registration Weekend, Home Affairs is making it easier for citizens to obtain the Smart ID Cards they need to register and participate in our democracy.” Over 370,000 Smart ID cards remain uncollected, and the department urged cardholders to utilise the extra operating hours.

The IEC’s Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, encouraged the public to update personal details and register at designated stations, saying, “We call on all eligible South Africans to take full advantage of the voter registration weekend to register, verify, or update their details on the voters’ roll.”

Voter Roll Growth And District Requirements

The IEC reported that the national voters’ roll now stands at 28 million, reflecting increased participation and public interest since the 2024 elections. For the 2026 municipal elections, South Africans must vote at the specific voting district where they are registered, as no legal provision allows voting in a different district.

The rise in registered voters and targeted government efforts highlight the importance of accessible documentation and district-based voting for transparent and inclusive local government elections. Home Affairs and the IEC maintain the expanded hours and registration stations are critical for fair and effective democratic participation. Further updates on the final registration numbers and any reported irregularities are expected in the coming weeks.