A local social activist says the importance of diverse representation on municipal councils cannot be overstated.

Laurabel Mba participated in an online forum Friday in line with the province’s Make Your Mark campaign.

Its goal is to increase diversity, accessibility, and inclusion among municipal leaders. Mba says the only way to achieve that is for people with diverse backgrounds to step up.

She says it’s important that they use their voice, adding government does want to know the issues that are important to them. But she says problems can’t be fixed if they’re not known.

The nomination period for candidates is from tomorrow until next Tuesday, August 31st.

The advance poll period runs from September 14th to the 25th, with election day set for September 28th.