Strategy to fund the National Dialogue outlined

THE South African Presidency has responded to questions regarding the financial aspects of the upcoming National Dialogue, specifically addressing the anticipated costs of the first National Convention.

- MASHUDU SADIKE and SINENHLANHLA MASILELA

The convention is scheduled for August 15 and 16. In a statement, spokesperson Vincent Magwenya emphasised that all budgetary processes concerning the convention are being conducted in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act (PEMA).

"Our commitment is to ensure transparency and accountability in all aspects of the convention's funding," he stated.

He said the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, is diligently working alongside various government departments to coordinate resources for the National Dialogue.

"This includes mobilisation efforts aimed at reducing potential costs associated with the event."

In a significant development, the University of South Africa (UNISA) has stepped in to offer support by hosting the first National Convention and providing related goods and services free of charge. Facilities secured include a plenary venue, two overflow areas equipped with live-streaming capabilities, and ten breakaway rooms for workshops.

Additionally, an operations centre is already operational, providing essential logistics services such as catering, audiovisual support, and the production of conference materials.