President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the first sitting of the National Convention on Friday at the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) main campus in Pretoria.
He described the convention as a platform to confront South Africa’s realities openly and constructively.
Over a thousand delegates from government, civil society, business, and communities gathered for the two-day citizen-led debate.
They aim to discuss practical ways to improve the lives of South Africans.
Ramaphosa Calls for National Dialogue
In his speech, Ramaphosa said: “Today marks the first sitting of the National Convention of the National Dialogue, a space where we confront our realities openly, respectfully, and constructively. Furthermore, this is not a partisan platform. This is a national platform.”
He added that the dialogue will help define a social compact outlining the roles and responsibilities of citizens, government, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious bodies, civil society, activist groups, and civic organisations.
Citizens to Shape the Outcome
Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africans will define the outcome of the Dialogue.
He said: “Our task is to prepare for the thousands of public dialogues that will happen in communities across the country over the next six to eight months. Importantly, this National Dialogue must be about citizens taking responsibility for their future. Through the dialogues, people must be able to address the challenges where they live, work, or study.”
How can ordinary South Africans contribute effectively to the National Dialogue in their communities?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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