Making SA's national dialogue truly inclusive: A Mandela Day blueprint for unity and progress

WHEN President Cyril Ramaphosa launched South Africa's National Dialogue last week, it reignited a powerful hope that our fractured nation could come together, once again, to chart a shared path forward.

- DR NIK EBERL

The timing could not be more fitting. As we celebrate Mandela Day, we are reminded of Madiba’s unwavering belief that dialogue is the most powerful tool we have to resolve our deepest differences and build a society grounded in dignity, justice, and unity.

But to succeed, this dialogue must do more than gather leaders behind closed doors. It must be fully inclusive, reaching every corner of our country and every voice of our society. That's not just a political imperative - it’s a moral one.

From Soccer to Solidarity: The Lessons of 2010

We've seen before what unity can look like in South Africa. When we hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it wasn't just a sporting event—it was a national movement.

I had the privilege of serving as the Head of the Brand Ambassador Program, where tens of thousands of ordinary South Africans became storytellers, hosts, and leaders. Townships, rural villages, corporates, and taxi ranks all felt the electricity of shared purpose.

That success wasn't accidental. It was built on inclusive planning, local ownership, relentless communication, and a vision that made every citizen feel like a stakeholder.

If we want this dialogue to leave a legacy like 2010 did, it must follow the same blueprint - but with deeper intent.

Begin with a People’s Charter for Dialogue

As Mandela did with the Codesa talks, we must ground the process in a clear and public mandate. A National Dialogue Charter should be co-created with representatives from all sectors - civil society, business, labour, youth, academia, traditional leaders, and opposition parties.

It must outline the dialogue’s purpose, scope, structure, and principles - including equity, transparency, and citizen ownership. Let the public comment. Let them shape it.