Archbishop Makgoba urges Northern Cape communities to take ownership of National Dialogue

Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town Thabo Makgoba has called on communities across South Africa, including those in the Northern Cape, to take possession of the National Dialogue process and make their voices heard.

Speaking during a church service in Taung, Makgoba emphasised that the process, which will involve nearly 14,000 community dialogues, cannot be controlled by politicians.

"Given the levels of dissatisfaction at the grassroots in our society, any politician who thinks he or she can control the process is sorely mistaken," Makgoba said. "The process can generate new policies and even new political parties."

Makgoba urged residents in the Northern Cape, including those in Kimberley, Kuruman, Bathlaros, Danielskuil, and Upington, to organise around the process and ensure their voices are heard.

He also encouraged every South African to follow their example.

The Archbishop emphasised that South Africa's failures are not only the responsibility of government but also of the private sector and communities themselves. He believes the National Dialogue provides an opportunity for a new social compact governing land and the economy