South Africa Convenes First National Convention to Chart a Citizen-Led Future

Natalie Nyathi

South Africa took an important step towards shaping its future with the first National Convention, held in Pretoria on August 15-16, 2025. The convention, themed “Uniting Voices, Shaping the Nation,” aimed to start a National Dialogue focused on addressing the country’s challenges and building a shared vision for the next 30 years.

President Cyril Ramaphosa initiated the National Dialogue to bring together government, political parties, civil society, business, labor, traditional leaders, and community voices. The goal is to create a new social agreement that drives progress and lays the foundation for South Africa’s future.

Over 1,200 delegates from different backgrounds participated in the two-day convention. Discussions focused on key issues like poverty, inequality, unemployment, social cohesion, gender-based violence, governance, and land reform.

Lindiwe Mazibuko, a member of the Eminent Persons Group, played a key role in the convention, assuring South Africans that the National Dialogue would be led by citizens. The group, made up of important figures in South African society, was appointed to guide the dialogue and ensure it remains inclusive.

President Ramaphosa emphasized the need for citizen participation, encouraging all South Africans to engage in discussions and help shape the country’s future. He called for meetings in homes, community halls, churches, schools, and workplaces to ensure that every voice is heard.

Despite the excitement about the convention, some challenges emerged. Several political parties and organizations distanced themselves from the dialogue, raising concerns about transparency and timing. Some delegates also reported issues with registration and accessibility.

Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, co-chair of the Eminent Persons Group, acknowledged these challenges and urged all parties to re-engage in the dialogue. He stressed the importance of integrity, transparency, and inclusivity, emphasizing that failure was not an option.

The convention concluded with a strong call for citizen-led change. Lindiwe Mazibuko urged South Africans to turn dialogue into lasting action. The outcomes of the convention will now feed into a national agenda-setting process, placing citizens at the center of shaping solutions for the country’s future.

The National Dialogue is expected to continue in phases through local conversations and public engagements. It represents a historic chance for South Africans to come together, heal past wounds, and chart a common path towards a more just and prosperous society.