African Journal of Inter-Religious Dialogue and Peacebuilding | 07 February 2006
Youth Organising Platforms in Cape Town: An Assessment of Community Mobilization Effectiveness
N, o, m, o, n, d, e, M, a, g, a, n, o, ,, S, i, p, h, o, M, o, t, s, h, e, g, a, ,, N, o, m, s, a, K, h, u, m, a, l, o, ,, T, s, h, e, p, o, M, o, t, s, o, e, n, a, n, i
Abstract
Youth Organising Platforms (YOPs) in Cape Town, South Africa have emerged as pivotal actors in community mobilization efforts aimed at promoting civic engagement and social cohesion. The assessment employs a mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews with key informants from YOPs and quantitative data analysis using survey responses from community members. Community surveys reveal that approximately 60% of respondents reported feeling more empowered to engage in local governance after participating in YOP activities, indicating significant mobilization effects. While the study finds promising signs of community empowerment through YOPs, there is room for improvement in addressing structural inequalities and enhancing long-term sustainability strategies. Policy recommendations include fostering partnerships between YOPs and local government to leverage resources and support, as well as implementing training programmes to enhance leadership skills among YOP members.