The Gathering 2026: Lion and mosquito: The spirit Daily Maverick brings to SA’s collapsing cities

Daily Maverick, the esteemed South African news outlet, hosted its annual The Gathering on Friday, 11 September 2026. Editor-in-Chief Jillian Green addressed the attendees, both physical and virtual, emphasizing the importance of bringing truth to light and defending it with integrity, courage, and independence. The purpose of the gathering is to diagnose societal complexities and formulate solutions to challenges faced by the nation.

Madiba once blessed Johannesburg, addressing the well-being of its people, and Shakespeare once said that a city is nothing more than its inhabitants. Both recognized cities as the foundation for human life, providing trade, services, culture, education, and connection. The spirit of Daily Maverick brings this vital spirit to South Africa's collapsing cities.

South Africa, one of 52 African countries, must correct its course immediately to ensure the sustainable health, safety, and prosperity of its cities and towns. Despite evidence of impressive work in cities, there is also shameful neglect, widespread corruption, and near-collapse in various urban areas. Millions of residents live without essential services, often paying for private services that the municipality fails to provide.

For a sustainable correction, all sectors of society must contribute. Government leaders and businesses must lead transparently and accountably, while civil society organizations must be given a proper platform. Residents must engage actively in their communities, and the media, particularly Daily Maverick, must empower them with credible information and shine a light on both successes and failures.

Daily Maverick will continue to serve as a crucial source of information, highlighting both the achievements and problems in South African cities. They will investigate, challenge both enemies and allies, and strive for the truth, which enables justice. In doing so, the media plays a vital role in empowering the public and fostering a society that values social justice, security, and safety.