“I just want to make an affect in whatever role I am given.”
These are the words of Banyana Banyana coach and football legend Desiree Ellis, who is one of 31 people appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to serve on the eminent persons group, tasked with guiding and championing the country’s national dialogue.
Ramaphosa said the national dialogue, announced on Tuesday, was essential in light of the many challenges SA is facing. A national convention will be held on August 15 to set the agenda for the dialogue.
Ellis said she intends to focus on women’s issues as well as the gender-based violence crisis and to contribute towards building strong communities and individuals.
“I don’t know what to expect yet until I sit down with everybody and understand my role. But obviously, women’s issues are top of my list,” she said.
“I grew up playing in the streets all the time and my mother did not have to come looking for me. But it is not safe any more. Now, people are so afraid that their children will get snatched or whatever the case might be. I want to make it safe for everyone because kids don’t play outside any more.”
Ramaphosa said the idea of the dialogue was not new and was part of the nation’s DNA.
“At every important moment in the history of our country, we have come together as a nation to confront our challenges and forge a path into the future in dialogue with one another,” Ramaphosa said.
At every important moment in the history of our country, we have come together as a nation to confront our challenges and forge a path into the future in dialogue with one anothe
— President Cyril Ramaphosa
He said through dialogue, the country was able to deal with the challenges that the apartheid system caused, achieved peace and overcame violence.
“For more than 30 years, we have worked together to realise the promise of our democratic constitution. We have made great strides as a nation, expanding freedom, deepening democracy and building a better life for millions. Yet we face persistent challenges.”
Ramaphosa said poverty, unemployment and inequality were deep wounds that prevented the country from reaching its potential.
“Millions of people are underemployed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families. Crime, gender-based violence and corruption are prevalent across our society.”
Grand Slam tennis champion Kgothatso Montjane, who is also part of the group, said she will be focusing on challenges faced by those living with disabilities.
“There is a lot of issues of accessibility in terms of infrastructure, which is lacking. The transport system we have in the country is also an issue – for someone who is in a wheelchair cannot travel alone, they need to have someone to help them.”
Montjane said solving youth unemployment was also an issue close to her heart.
“Having family members and friends and some of their family members who are hit by unemployment is an issue to address,” she said.
“[And] in certain companies you find a lot of [people living with] disabilities being added as just numbers instead of them being hired for their skills.”
ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said the national dialogue initiative marked an important national effort to forge unity, rebuild trust and renew the country’s collective commitment to social and economic transformation.
“We therefore welcome the inclusive character of this dialogue process and the calibre of individuals appointed to guide it. The participation of all sectors of society will ensure that the dialogue reflects the hopes, frustrations and aspirations of the South Africans,” she said.
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