Pretoria: The National Dialogue process has reached a pivotal stage with the completion of the nomination of sectoral representatives to the National Dialogue Steering Committee, the Presidency announced on Friday.

According to South African Government News Agency, the first National Convention, held on 15 – 16 August 2025, approved the mandate, responsibilities, and composition of the Steering Committee. It also resolved that each identified sector would conduct its own consultations to nominate representatives to serve on the Steering Committee and its sub-committees.

To date, no fewer than 26 sectors have submitted nominations for the Steering Committee. The list of nominees has been handed over to the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) for quality assurance. The EPG will, in turn, submit its recommendations to President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as Head of State and Convener of the National Dialogue, for finalisation.

The Presidency said that once approved by the President, the Steering Committee will oversee the rollout of public dialogues across the country. It is anticipated that the process of appointing the Steering Committee will be concluded in the coming weeks.

In addition, President Ramaphosa has received the Handover Report of the Convention Organising Committee (COC), as well as the Report on the National Convention, marking the completion of the COC’s mandate. The COC had been tasked with organising the first National Convention after the withdrawal of some foundations from the process.

President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation to members of the Convention Organising Committee for their dedication and commitment. He noted the collective effort that ensured the smooth proceedings of the National Convention, allowing delegates from all sectors an opportunity to express themselves.

The President also acknowledged the contribution of legacy foundations and civil society organisations that participated in the Preparatory Task Team, noting their instrumental role in getting the National Dialogue off the ground. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum and meeting expectations as the Steering Committee is established.

The Eminent Persons Group, the Inter-Ministerial Committee, and the Presidency remain custodians of the process’s integrity and will continue to safeguard its credibility until it is handed over to the Steering Committee. Work is underway to establish a fully-fledged National Dialogue Secretariat, housed at NEDLAC, which will provide institutional support to the process.