President Cyril Ramaphosa initiated a citizen-driven “national dialogue” on Tuesday to address South Africa’s challenges, including soaring unemployment and rising crime, while developing a vision for the nation’s future.
The announcement confirmed growing demands for a participatory process to address issues affecting the country, three decades after apartheid ended in 1994.
“The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy,” Ramaphosa said in a video and text statement.
Despite making strides since the end of white-minority rule, the country of 63 million people faced “persistent challenges” of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
“Millions of people are under-employed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families. Crime, gender-based violence and corruption are prevalent across our society,” he said.
The unemployment rate in Africa’s most industrialised country is 32 per cent. The sluggish economy is characterised by inadequate service delivery, particularly in power and water, alongside failing infrastructure.
As Ramaphosa stated, the national dialogue is set to commence with a convention in mid-August featuring delegates from diverse sectors, including government, politics, business, and labour.
In the subsequent months, citizens nationwide will be invited to voice their concerns and suggestions, which will be presented at a second convention scheduled for the following year.
According to the president, this gathering will aim to “finalise a compact that outlines the roles and responsibilities of all South Africans” in a developmental strategy.
He identified approximately 30 notable South Africans who will lead the initiative, including judges, religious and business figures, scientists, and personalities such as award-winning actor John Kani and Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.
On July 1, South Africa will commemorate the first anniversary of establishing a ten-party Government of National Unity (GNU) after the African National Congress could not secure an outright majority in elections due to public disillusionment with its governance marred by corruption.
The GNU has faced significant challenges due to internal disagreements over matters including the national budget and black empowerment policies.
