South Africa will begin a “national dialogue” on Friday aimed at uniting citizens, political parties, and civic groups in tackling the nation’s most pressing challenges. The two-day opening convention in Pretoria marks the start of a series of public discussions expected to span all nine provinces.
Initiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa after calls from civil society, the dialogue seeks to address deep-rooted issues more than three decades after the end of apartheid, including high poverty and inequality, rampant crime, corruption, and an unemployment rate exceeding 30%.
Ramaphosa described the initiative as a “people-led, society-wide process” to reflect on the state of the country and “reimagine our future.” An Eminent Persons Group representing South Africa’s diversity will help guide the process, with figures such as rugby captain Siya Kolisi, “Black Panther” actor John Kani, and former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron among its members.
The talks have faced criticism over an estimated $40 million cost and doubts about their impact. The Democratic Alliance, the second-largest party in the coalition government, withdrew in protest after a dispute with the ANC, calling the event a “waste of public money.” The official opposition MK Party has also refused to participate.
Some civic foundations have pulled out of the opening convention, citing rushed preparations, though they pledged to engage in later stages. Analysts warn that for the dialogue to succeed, the ruling ANC must avoid dominating the process.
The dialogue will unfold in phases, potentially continuing into next year with a second convention planned. Whether it can bridge South Africa’s political divides and deliver tangible solutions remains uncertain.
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