Cosatu supports National Dialogue, but warns talk must lead to action
As the dialogue kicks off, the Congress of South African Trade Unions says implementation – not more conversation – is key.
FILE: President Cyril Ramaphosa met with the Eminent Persons Group over the upcoming National Dialogue at the Union Buildings. Picture: Simphiwe Nkosi/EWN
CapeTalk and 702's Mandy Wiener chats to General Secretary for the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), Solly Phetoe.
Listen below:
The National Convention, taking place from 15 to 17 August, is described as a vital step toward a citizen-driven National Dialogue on South Africa’s future.
More than 200 organisations from 33 sectors are expected to attend in order to establish the framework, themes, and structure for the upcoming dialogue.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) backs the initiative, but insists it must go beyond rhetoric to tackle South Africa’s deep economic challenges – particularly unemployment among women and youth.
We meet at a time of profound challenges: economic hardship, unemployment, inequality, growing povertyand a crisis of confidence in our institutions.
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) August 15, 2025
https://t.co/aIpKcELeZI
The National Dialogue has sparked mixed reactions, with critics questioning whether it can deliver concrete improvements to jobs, services, and the economy.
RELATED: National Convention kicks off amid tensions over legitimacy, citizen representation
While acknowledging public frustration, Cosatu maintains that a properly structured and monitored process could lay the groundwork for a renewed social contract, only if implementation follows.
Phetoe says the labour federation initially raised concerns, but agreed to support the process after engagements with the dialogue team appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He emphasises that any outcomes must be government-led to ensure implementation.
"If it's going to be led by people who are not in government, it's going to be a problem in terms of how to process and how to make sure that the implementation sees the light in terms of the programmes of government."
- Solly Phetoe, Cosatu General Secretary
Phetoe stresses that the dialogue must not be reduced to yet another 'talkshop' without results.
Scroll up to listen to the full conversation.