Addis ababa: South Africa is launching a national dialogue on Friday, aimed at bringing together all sectors of society to discuss the country’s most pressing issues and find solutions.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the talks are initiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa following calls from civil society, and are expected to include most political parties, civic groups, and members of the public. “The national dialogue must be a place where everyone has a voice. The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of our country in order for us to reimagine our future,” President Ramaphosa stated.
South Africans from all walks of life are expected to voice their views at the dialogue, with talks expected to be held in person and virtually, as per media reports. Ramaphosa has appointed an Eminent Persons Group, which consists of religious, sports, labor, and civic figures who reflect the great diversity of South Africa. Notable members include South African rugby captain Siya K
olisi, award-winning ‘Black Panther’ actor John Kani, and former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron.
The dialogue will unfold in phases and take the form of public discussions across all nine provinces of South Africa. Although the duration of the dialogue remains unclear, a second convention could be scheduled for early next year. South Africa faces numerous economic and social challenges, including high levels of poverty and inequality, crime, corruption, and unemployment.