President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the launch of a broad-based, citizen-led National Dialogue aimed at addressing South Africa’s mounting socioeconomic challenges and fostering a new vision for its future. The initiative, unveiled on Tuesday, seeks to rally voices from across the country to tackle deep-rooted issues such as poverty, inequality, crime, and unemployment—30 years after the nation’s transition from apartheid to democracy.
“This National Dialogue is a platform for every South African—from all backgrounds and communities—to participate in shaping the next phase of our democratic journey,” Ramaphosa said in a public statement delivered through both video and text.
Enduring Challenges Despite Democratic Gains
While South Africa has made notable progress since the fall of apartheid in 1994, Ramaphosa acknowledged that many of the country’s structural problems remain unresolved. With a population of over 63 million, the nation continues to face high levels of poverty and joblessness, compounded by rising inequality.
“Millions are either unemployed or working in conditions that do not allow them to support themselves or their families,” Ramaphosa said. “In addition, our society remains plagued by crime, gender-based violence, and corruption.”
Official figures place the unemployment rate at 32%, making it one of the highest in the world. The country’s economy, though the most industrialized on the continent, continues to struggle due to poor public service delivery and the deteriorating state of infrastructure, including widespread power outages and water shortages.
First Convention Set for August 2025
As part of the process, the first national convention will take place in mid-August 2025. This inaugural gathering will bring together representatives from government, political parties, business sectors, labor unions, civil society, and community organizations. The goal is to facilitate open and inclusive discussions on the path forward for South Africa’s development.
In the months following the convention, citizens across all provinces will be encouraged to contribute their views, voice their concerns, and propose solutions. These grassroots-level contributions will be compiled and deliberated upon in a second national convention scheduled for the following year.
That second gathering is expected to produce a “social compact”—a framework outlining the responsibilities and commitments of all sectors of society toward a shared national agenda.
Leadership and Endorsements
To lend credibility and direction to the dialogue, Ramaphosa has appointed a group of approximately 30 distinguished South Africans to lead and champion the process. The group includes a wide range of respected figures such as senior judges, business leaders, religious authorities, scientists, and cultural icons. Notable among them are celebrated actor John Kani and national rugby team captain Siya Kolisi, both known for their influence and advocacy beyond their professional fields.
A Divided Government Faces Pressure
The launch of the National Dialogue comes at a critical political juncture. On July 1, South Africa will mark the one-year anniversary of its government of national unity (GNU), formed after the African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994. The current ten-party coalition has faced internal strife and policy disagreements, particularly around fiscal management and the implementation of Black Economic Empowerment laws.
Ramaphosa’s dialogue initiative is seen as an attempt to bypass partisan gridlock and restore public confidence through broader civic engagement. While expectations are high, the success of the dialogue will depend on whether it translates into actionable reforms and improved living conditions for ordinary South Africans.