This study attempts to identify the factors that affect the functionality of ward committees in heterogeneous communities in Cape Town. It examines two socio-economically heterogeneous wards, each of which contains distinct populations with different and sometimes opposing needs. Interviews conducted with ward committee members, Community-Based Organisation representatives, and community leaders led to the conclusion that three factors - political parties, human and social capital, and institutional structure - influence the functionality of ward committees. Political parties in particular have the strongest impact and strongest linkage to the other two factors.