Furthermore, there have been policy developments - including the White Paper on Communications and Digital Technologies and proposals to address online harms, including platform accountability and faster detection and removal of disinformation. Partnerships with organisations such as Moxii (formerly Media Monitoring Africa) and Real411, among other entities further expand rapid‑response and monitoring capabilities.

Safeguarding democracy requires the involvement of all stakeholders: government, electoral bodies, technology companies, civil society, community media, youth networks, and citizens themselves. Through public engagement, transparent communication, coordinated action, and accessible digital tools - such as zero‑rated portals allowing voters to verify information - South Africa is building a resilient “Democracy Shield” that protects the integrity of the vote.

South Africa’s democracy is further strengthened by legislation that upholds information integrity and enforces accountability. Key instruments such as the Cybercrimes Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct provide clear legal measures to ensure that individuals who intentionally disseminate harmful digital disinformation face the appropriate consequences.

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