Johannesburg – South Africa is set to officially begin a nationwide National Dialogue aimed at addressing the country’s most pressing challenges and rebuilding trust between government, citizens, and various sectors of society.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading the government delegation and will open the First National Convention on Friday.
The convention will serve as a platform for agenda-setting and charting a roadmap for long-term citizen-led engagement.
The dialogue, described by officials as a multi-year initiative, will feature an opening plenary, discussions on shared rules of engagement, interactive Dialogue Labs, and sector-specific pledges.
#NationalDialogueZA | Today South Africa begins the process of a National Dialogue . A long-term process to rebuild trust, address deepest challenges, and shape a shared future.
President Cyril Ramaphosa leads the government delegation and officially open the First National… pic.twitter.com/PoEBioAGh3
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) August 15, 2025
Organisers say updates will be shared throughout the day.
“The National Dialogue is a process designed to foster inclusivity, transparency, and shared responsibility in tackling South Africa’s social, economic, and political challenges,” the government said in a statement.
Participants and the public can follow the proceedings and engage in discussions through the official National Dialogue website and social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).
The initiative represents one of the government’s most ambitious efforts to directly involve citizens in shaping policy priorities and rebuilding confidence in public institutions.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu