The Presidency’s announcement of a National Dialogue presents an opportunity for reflection—but unless paired with action and modern tools for inclusion, it risks becoming another ceremonial talk shop.
South Africa is not short on platforms for citizen input—we have the Presidential Hotline, Imbizos, and the District Development Model. We also have access to digital citizen engagement platforms that already connect millions of South Africans to local government structures daily. These platforms are low-cost, high-impact, and inclusive by design—allowing real-time feedback and visibility across issues like healthcare, education, social grants, and municipal services.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, technology proved vital in enabling government to reach millions quickly. The country’s ability to deliver Social Relief of Distress grants, identify hotspots, and communicate with citizens would not have been possible without digital innovation.
Yet the real challenge remains implementation. South Africans are speaking—but is government listening, and more importantly, acting? Dialogue without delivery is just noise.
The biggest barrier to inclusive governance today is not access to ideas, or even access to technology—it is a crisis of leadership. We do not need more reports or recommendations; we need action.
Instead of spending millions on physical conventions, South Africa should institutionalise the use of citizen engagement platforms as part of the National Dialogue process. Let citizens participate from wherever they are—in their language, on their devices, in their communities.
A modern democracy must meet its people where they are—not expect them to travel, wait, or hope to be heard.
If we are serious about changing the course of the country, then this dialogue must not only reflect the voices of the people—it must result in bold, visible leadership that turns conversation into change.
- Prof Eldrid Jordaan is GovChat Founder and Professor of Practice at Johannesburg Business School
