President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced the commencement of South Africa’s National Dialogue, a landmark initiative designed to foster national unity and address pressing socio-economic issues.
According to eNCA, the announcement was made last night, on 10 June. During his statement, Ramaphosa emphasised the dialogue’s roots in South Africa’s history of negotiation and reconciliation, framing it as both a continuation of past efforts and a necessary response to current struggles.
‘At every critical moment in our nation’s journey, we have turned to dialogue to overcome challenges and chart a way forward. This initiative builds on that legacy,’ he said.
The process will begin with the National Convention on August 15, 2025, where representatives from government, political parties, business, labour, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, youth, and other sectors will gather to set the agenda.
Addressing deep-rooted challenges
The president did not shy away from acknowledging the country’s persistent crises like poverty, unemployment and inequality, calling them ‘deep wounds holding us back’.
Unlike a single event, the National Dialogue will unfold in phases, starting with grassroots and sectoral consultations before culminating in a second National Convention in early 2026.
To oversee the initiative, Ramaphosa appointed a 33-member Eminent Persons Group, featuring respected figures such as Dr Brigalia Bam (Former IEC Chair), Siya Kolisi (Springbok Captain), Ela Gandhi (Peace Activist), Gcina Mhlophe (Storyteller & Artist), and Siyabulela Xuza (Rocket Scientist)
‘These leaders embody our diversity and commitment to nation-building,’ Ramaphosa highlighted.
Additional support will come from an Inter-Ministerial Committee, a Steering Committee, and a Secretariat based at NEDLAC.
Shaping South Africa’s future
The president positioned the dialogue as crucial for refining the National Development Plan and advancing Vision 2030.
‘We seek a shared understanding of what it means to be South African, a new national ethos that unites us,’ he stated.
In closing, Ramaphosa then invoked the spirit of unity: ‘Through dialogue, we will define a future where all South Africans thrive, united in our diversity.’
The National Dialogue represents a bold step toward reconciliation and progress, urging citizens to engage in shaping the country’s path forward.
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