Cabinet Orders Cost Control as R700 Million National Dialogue Faces Public Scrutiny

The South African Cabinet has instructed the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to exercise financial prudence over the National Dialogue initiative, following widespread public criticism of its estimated R700 million budget. This directive comes amid growing concerns about government spending at a time of economic hardship, with citizens and opposition parties questioning the value of what some call an expensive talk shop.

- By Thabo Mosia

Announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the National Dialogue aims to unite South Africans in tackling challenges like unemployment, inequality, and land reform through a nationwide conversation inspired by the Freedom Charter. Yet, with the Cabinet now emphasizing cost control, the initiative’s future hinges on balancing fiscal responsibility with its promise of meaningful change.

A Vision Rooted in History

The National Dialogue is a bold government plan to engage South Africans in shaping the country’s future. President Cyril Ramaphosa unveiled the initiative earlier this month, framing it as a modern echo of the 1955 Freedom Charter. That historic document, born from a gathering of over 3,000 delegates in Kliptown, outlined a vision for a democratic, equal South Africa. Today, 70 years later, the National Dialogue seeks to build on that legacy by creating a 30-year action plan to address pressing issues: jobs, healthcare, education, inequality, and land reform. The process will kick off with a National Convention on 15 August 2025, bringing together around 1,000 delegates from government, business, labour, civil society, traditional leaders, women, youth, and faith groups. This one-day event will set the stage for six to nine months of public engagements across all 257 municipalities. An Eminent Persons Group, including well-known figures like rugby captain Siya Kolisi and Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane, will act as ambassadors to boost trust and ensure diverse voices are heard. The goal is a practical, long-term plan that reflects the hopes of all South Africans.