The National Dialogue of South Africa has entered a new phase of citizen-led coordination, engaging citizens through sectors, and stakeholders.
This phase follows a Strategic Planning Workshop held from 6 - 8 March 2026 and the Steering Committee meeting held on 9 April 2026.
The Steering Committee, in a statement on Thursday, said it was building on the outcomes of the Strategic Planning Workshop, where the Terms of Reference and other governance instruments were adopted.
In its meeting on 9 April 2026, the committee set out a programme for meetings and work to be undertaken by committee members in various structures.
“This programme of activities is charting towards the rollout of a pilot phase. This phase will draw directly from ordinary voices across the country; in different sectors, provinces and wards through pilot dialogues,” said the Steering Committee.
The committee - comprising over 100 leaders from diverse sectors of the South African society - continues to demonstrate the strength of democratic engagement.
“The presence of varied perspectives and active engagement is a reflection of a living democracy - aligned with the spirit of the national Coat of Arms: “!ke e: /xarra //ke” - diverse people unite. This diversity, managed through democratic and inclusive process, and mutual respect, is what gives the National Dialogue its legitimacy and strength. As a true reflection of the voice of South Africans,” the Steering Committee said.
The committee meeting next week will further deliberate on “mechanisms to ensure that the citizens, through the National Dialogue, are not only heard, but that the process is responsive".
"In this regard, a Rapid Response Framework is being considered to strengthen the link between citizen inputs and coordinated government action."
The National Dialogue remains firmly committed to an inclusive, credible, participatory and action-oriented process that empowers all South Africans to contribute meaningfully to shaping the country’s future.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for an inclusive National Dialogue – a people-led, society-wide process to reflect, reset and reimagine South Africa's future. The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy.
The dialogue is unfolding in phases – from local consultations and sectoral engagements to national conventions. – SAnews.gov.za
