Abstract
E-participation is gaining global traction in planning processes but remains limited in developing countries like South Africa due to governance and infrastructural barriers. Despite its potential to enhance public engagement, significant inequalities persist between developed and developing nations. In South Africa, challenges include digital literacy gaps and stark digital divides between rural and urban areas, as well as between socio-economic groups. This study investigates barriers hindering e-participation in municipal planning within the Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM). E-participation promotes public engagement, transparency, and inclusiveness in decision-making, making it essential for municipalities. The study employed a qualitative methodology, focusing on GTM. Semi-structured individual face-to-face interviews with municipal officials were conducted, and data were analysed using thematic content analysis and NVivo. Findings highlight significant digital divides characterised by infrastructure inequalities between rural and urban areas. Many communities lack access to technology, preventing effective e-participation in municipal planning. Additionally, digital literacy deficiencies among GTM residents further impede engagement. Language diversity is often overlooked, excluding individuals from different linguistic backgrounds or those who cannot read or write. To address these challenges, the study recommends prioritising the development of electricity infrastructure in underdeveloped rural villages to enable equitable access to digital technologies and Internet connectivity. Furthermore, municipalities should establish educational programs to improve information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, fostering broader community involvement. Promoting understanding of local government operations is also vital to active public participation in the municipal planning process. By addressing infrastructural and educational barriers, municipalities can enhance e-participation, empower citizens and ensuring more inclusive decision-making processes. This study emphasises the need for tailored interventions to bridge digital divides and foster equitable engagement in South Africa’s municipal planning processes.