Event information
Daily Maverick's annual flagship conference returns to the CTICC with a 2026 theme focused on cities, timed ahead of the 4 November local government elections. The day is structured as four chapters moving from the current state of South African cities through safety and crime, the economics of urban decline, and finally leadership and what comes next.
The first wave of confirmed speakers includes Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke, Scopa chairperson Songezo Zibi, Director-General of Water and Sanitation Sean Phillips, WaterCAN executive director Ferrial Adam, and NPA National Director Andy Mothibi. Political figures on the programme include Democratic Alliance leader Geordin Hill-Lewis, DA Johannesburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille and ActionSA president Herman Mashaba, alongside author and judge Edwin Cameron and African Centre for Cities director Professor Edgar Pieterse.
The event is held in partnership with Ninety One, with additional support from Binance, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation and Wits University, and delivery partners including Jozi My Jozi and Mission for Inner City Cape Town.
A virtual livestream option is planned for those unable to attend in person, with registration details to follow closer to the date.