President Cyril Ramaphosa is adamant that the much-anticipated National Dialogue will reignite the true meaning of what it means to be South African. He announced that a National Convention will first be held on the 15th of August to map out the agenda for the upcoming National Dialogue.
Ramaphosa said the dialogue will feature various groups including government, business, civic groups, religious and traditional leaders.
“Through their various political, social, and other formations in their workplaces, in places of worship, communities, villages and sites of learning, South Africans will in the months following the National Convention be encouraged to be in dialogue to define our nation’s path into the future. Through the National Dialogue, we seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system,” said Ramaphosa.
The President also revealed a lengthy list of more than 30 prominent individuals who will form part of the engagement. They include Springbok Captain Siya Kolisi, Award-winning actor Dr John Kani, Miss South Africa 2024 Mia le Roux, Former Independent Electoral Commission Chair, Dr Brigalia Bam, National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Chair, Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo and award-winning rocket scientist, Siyabulela Xuza, among others.
Former President Thabo Mbeki first proposed the National Dialogue back in May 2024 during the ANC elections campaign trail, where he called on the party to convene the sitting, to address the persisting socio-economic challenges. Furthermore, Ramaphosa noted the strides made in developing the country, but believes more can still be done, especially 31 years since the dawn of democracy. Issues expected to top the agenda include poverty, unemployment, crime, and inequality.
