Beyond the Ballot — Strengthening Collaborative Local Governance for Inclusive Economic Development

Dialogue. Debate. Collaborate.

Six days before South Africa votes in the local government elections, EDP X-Change returns to ask a question most convenings avoid: what does capable, collaborative local government actually take, once the campaign promises are over?

Dialogue

Past editions of EDP X-Change shaped thinking about how partnering works across sectors. This year, with the White Paper on Local Government under revision and an election result about to land, the stakes are sharper than usual.

Debate

This isn't a room for position papers. Now in its third year, EDP X-Change brings together people from government, business, civil society and academia together to test hard questions in the open, and work through the disagreement rather than around it.

Date & Time

Thursday 29 October 2026, 12:30 - 18:00

Venue Information

Centre for the Book, 62 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town City Centre

Parking in the CBD is limited so please Uber or walk if possible.

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The event has been intentionally designed to spark ideas and partnerships for change within and between participants.

Revisit the last two X-Changes

2025

2024

Access the action and insights generated by thought leaders at EDP X-Change 2024

“While actors confine themselves to their own mandate or function, in the complex real world, system challenges are rarely ever within the mandate, function or control of any one organisation.”

Explore the opportunities and insights from thought leaders at EDP X-Change 2025

In a world where facts and trade alike are increasingly weaponised, convenors who create spaces for agreement on the common good are essential. The Economic Development Partnership does just this.