South Africa’s National Dialogue: Uniting the nation through conversation
President Ramaphosa initiates National Dialogue to bring South Africans together and address major national issues.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a National Convention to launch a nationwide dialogue.
The initiative aims to unite people from all walks of life to tackle crime, unemployment, inequality, and division, with the goal of building a better future for everyone.
WHY DIALOGUE IS IN THE DNA OF SOUTH AFRICA
President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that dialogue has always driven South Africa’s transformation. He highlighted how unity and negotiation ended apartheid and established democracy.
He described the National Dialogue as a step toward national unity and continued progress.
A COMMON GOAL FOR A STRONGER SOUTH AFRICA
Ramaphosa announced that a second National Convention will take place early next year, where participants will define the responsibilities of the government, businesses, communities, and civil society.
A Group of Eminent Persons, including prominent figures such as Judge Edwin Cameron, Dr Brigalia Bam, Siya Kolisi, and others, will lead the process.
NATIONAL DIALOGUE STRUCTURE TO ENSURE INCLUSIVE IMPLEMENTATION
The National Dialogue will operate under a three-tiered governance model.
An inter-ministerial committee led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on government involvement.
A Steering Committee, comprising representatives from the business, political, labour, cultural, and civil society sectors, will set the strategic priorities.
The secretariat at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) will handle daily operations and ensure the dialogue progresses smoothly through each stage.
WHAT IS IN STORE FOR THE NATIONAL DIALOGUE?
President Ramaphosa’s National Dialogue: A staged process that starts at the local level and ends with national unity
Ramaphosa said that the next step in the National Development Plan will be based on this process. He ended by calling for unity: “We are drawing on our traditions of talking and arguing.”
Critics view President Cyril Ramaphosa’s National Dialogue as a political smokescreen hiding South Africa’s diplomatic challenges with strategic allies and the government’s growing problems leading to a coalition after the ANC’s poor election results.