R700m for National Dialogue will contribute to building a better SA, say organisers

JOHANNESBURG - With the National Dialogue estimated to cost about R700 million, the committee spearheading the initiative said this money would contribute to building a better South Africa.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the establishment of the dialogue earlier this week, which is aimed at strengthening the country’s democracy.

The committee spearheading the dialogue estimates that at least R700 million will be required to facilitate its rollout.

The dialogue will unfold through a series of public engagements across the country over a six to nine-month period.

Committee chairperson, Nkosinathi Biko, said that the dialogue would play a major role in bringing South Africans together for much-needed national conversations.

"When we dip our hands into our pockets on a Friday or Saturday, what are we buying with our R11? Can we, for the first time in 30 years, take just one R11 to put in that portfolio for our democracy and look after it?"