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WORKING TOGETHER TO CREATE A CARING AND PROUD SOCIETY

WORKING TOGETHER TO CREATE A CARING AND PROUD SOCIETY

A NATIONAL SOCIAL COHESION SUMMIT REPORT WALTER SISULU SQUARE OF DEDICATION 4 - 5 JULY 2012

WALTER SISULU SQUARE OF DEDICATION, KLIPTOWN SOWETO, 4 - 5 JULY 2012 2

Foreword by the Ministry of Arts and Culture

A National Social Cohesion Summit, convened by the Department of Arts and Culture on behalf of Government, took place on the 4th and 5th of July 2012. The venue was the Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication in Kliptown, Soweto, where the historic was adopted. A total of 2300 delegates, representing the diversity of our people, participated in the Summit and subscribed to a declaration renewing their commitment to building an inclusive and cohesive society. This Summit was another step on our road to building a unified nation of people with diverse origins, histories, languages, cultures and religions. We committed ourselves to convening social-cohesion and nation- building summits at provincial, local and community level within the next twelve months. National Government will work with the provinces and municipalities to ensure that this happens in preparation for a second national summit in 2014, coinciding with the 20th Anniversary of Freedom and Democracy. This report, which summarises the proceedings of the Summit and serves as a reference document for our future work, captures the concerns and the commitments made and these will be processed as we implement the decisions of the Summit. Minister of Arts and Culture On behalf of Government, Dr Joe Phaahla, the Deputy Minister, and I would like to thank you for your contribution towards building an inclusive, non-racial and democratic society over the past 18 years. We call on you to continue to foster unity; to spare no effort in building a nation of people who are caring and dignified, with a great sense of humility and mutual respect for one another; and to promote a conscious sense of being proudly South African, committed to the country and open to the continent and the world.

Dr Joe Phaahla Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture

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Contents

1. SUMMIT PROGRAMME 1

2. PURPOSE OF THE SUMMIT - ADDRESS BY MINISTER OF ARTS AND CULTURE 4

3. KEYNOTE ADDRESS - HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT ZUMA 6

4. DECLARATION AND PROGRAMME OF ACTION 10

5. OVERVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL SOCIAL COHESION SUMMIT 13

6. OPENING SESSION 14

7. Purpose of the Summit and keynote address 14

8. PLENARY SESSION 14

9. The role of the judiciary, parliament, legislatures, councils and political parties 15

10. PLENARY SESSION 19

11. Endorsement of the Summit 19

12. Comparative Experience from the African Continent 21

13. The role of labour, business and civil society 22

16. CLOSING REMARKS 26

14. THE SUMMIT COMMISSIONS 27

15. CONFERENCE DECLARATION 27

17. ANNEXURES 29

18. A NTIONAL STRATEGY FOR DEVELOPING AN INCLUSIVE AND A COHESIVE SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIETY - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 56

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DAY ONE – 4 JULY 2012

OPENING SESSION Programme Director: Deputy Minister of Arts and Programme Director: Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, Dr Joe Phaahla Culture, Dr Joe Phaahla 08:30 Singing of the National Anthem, led by the Facilitator: Dr Brigalia Bam Soweto Gospel Choir 14:00 Messages of endorsement of the Summit on 08:40 Interfaith prayers behalf of - 08:50 Opening and welcome, on behalf of the Premier • The Most Reverend Dr Thabo Makgoba, of , Lebogang Maile, MEC Archbishop of Cape Town 09:00 Purpose of the Summit, the Minister of Arts and • Mr Herman Mashaba, Businessman and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Leswikeng Minerals and Energy Limited 09:20 Poetry rendition, the National Poet Laureate, Professor Keorapetse Kgositsile • The 1955 Generation, Ms Sophie Williams- de Bruyn 09:30 Keynote address, His Excellency President 14:15 Comparative experience from the African continent, the South Sudan Minister of Culture, 10:15 Tea break Youth and Sport, Dr Cirino Hiteng Ofuho MORNING PLENARY SESSION 14:30 The role of Labour in building a socially inclusive Programme Director: Deputy Minister of Arts and society: Culture, Dr Joe Phaahla • COSATU, Mr Zwelinzima Vavi Facilitator: Dr Alex Boraine • FEDUSA, Mr Dennis George 10:30 The role of the judiciary in building a socially • NACTU, Mr Narius Moloto inclusive society, the Honourable Justice Yvonne Mokgoro • Solidarity, Mr Flip Buys 10:40 The role of Parliament, legislatures and councils 14:50 The role of Business in building a socially inclusive in building a socially inclusive society, the Speaker society: of the National Assembly, the Honourable Max • BUSA, Ms Nomaxabiso Majokweni Sisulu • NAFCOC, Mr Lawrence Mavundla 10:50 The role of political parties in building a socially inclusive society: ANC, DA, COPE, IFP, ID, • BBC, Mr Sandile Zungu UDM, FF+, ACDP, UCDP, PAC, AZAPO and 15:30 The role of Civil Society in building a socially APC inclusive society: 12:25 Respondents • Legal Resources Centre, Ms Zodwa • Minister Paul Mashatile Gumede • Minister • Lead SA, Mr Yusuf Abramjee • Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma • Foundation for Human Rights, Mr Hanif Vally 13:00 Lunch break • Heritage Foundation, Major-General Gert Opperman • Progressive Women’s Movement, Ms Xoliswa Bam

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DAY TWO: 5 JULY 2012 16:00 Respondents:

• Minister for Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, COMMISSIONS Minister Collins Chabane Programme Director: Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Paul • National Planning Commission, Mr Joel Mashatile Netshitenzhe Facilitator: Director-General of Arts and Culture, Mr Sibusiso • National Planning Commission, Mr Mike Muller Xaba 16:30 Closure of day one 09:00 Programme Director – Summary of proceedings from day one

Facilitator – Arrangements for Commissions 09:30 Commissions • Presentation – 15 minutes • Panellists – 5 minutes each • Commission discussion – 2 hours • Summary – 15 minutes 12:30 Lunch break CLOSING PLENARY SESSION Programme Director: Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile Facilitator: Director-General of Arts and Culture, Mr Sibusiso Xaba 14:00 Report back from Commissions • Economic inequalities • Spatial divisions • Social interaction, cooperation and solidarity • Prejudice and discrimination • National identity and unity 15:15 Tea break 15:30 Conference declaration read by Professor Willem Esterhuyse 15:45 Closing remarks by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile

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COMMISSIONS:

Commission Economic inequalities Spatial divisions Social interaction, Prejudice and National identity and unity cooperation and solidarity discrimination

Content • Economic transformation • Land reform • Social support • Racism • Language • Unemployment • Urban and rural • Safety and security • Tribalism • Arts and culture • Poverty development • Health • Sexism • Religion • Inequality • Education • Xenophobia • Values • Active, inclusive and • Symbols, fair citizenship • Sport and recreation • Rights and • Communication and responsibilities public discourse

Presenters Minister Ms Nandi Mayathula- Deputy Minister Mohamed Minister Nkosazana Minister Collins Chabane Khoza, MEC Enver Surty Dlamini-Zuma Respondents Dr Mirriam Altman Mr Neville Chainee Dr Alan Boesak Mr Neeshan Balton Minister Dina Pule Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa Mr Samadodo Fikeni Dr Mathole Motshekga Dr kgamadi Kometsi Prof. Muxe Nkondo Mr Lumkile Mtimde Prof. Alan Mabin Dr Faizel Randera The Rev. Gift Moerane Mr Miller Matola Mr Ravi Naidoo Adv. Sipho Pityana Ms Thandiwe Sanduza Facilitator Mr Xolani Gwala Mr Ashraf Garda Mr Sandile Memela Ms Nikiwe Bikitsha Ms Masechaba Moshoeshoe

Rapporteurs Prof. Yunus Ballim Ms Febe Potgieter Prof. Kwandiwe Kondlo The Rev. Frank Chikane Ms Barbara Masekela Mr Percy Mthimkhulu Mr Leonard Martin Dr Luli Callinicos Prof. Andries Oliphant Mr Leslie Dikeni

DRAFTING TEAM

Convenor: Mr Sibusiso Xaba

All rapporteurs Mr Mduduzi Mbada Mr Sandile Memela Mr Joel Netshitenzhe Dr Trish Hanekom Ms Shalo Mbatha Mr Percy Mthimkhulu

President Zuma, Minister Mashatile, Premier Zille and Mr Mantashe at the opening ceremony of the Summit

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PURPOSE OF THE SUMMIT As they converged on Kliptown, they were inspired by these words of Pixley ka Isaka Seme: “The greatest success ADDRESS BY MINISTER OF ARTS AND shall come when man shall have learned to cooperate, not CULTURE, MR PAUL MASHATILE only with his own kith and kin but also with all peoples and with all life.” Programme Director, Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, Dr Joe Phaahla, Those who gathered here at the Congress of the People His Excellency the President of the Republic of South in 1955 articulated a vision of an alternative South African Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma, society, one that is more humane and inclusive. Like those Our guest of honour, the Minister of Culture, Youth and who came before them, they further laid the foundation Sport from South Sudan, Dr Cirino Hiteng Ofuho, for an inclusive future for all South Africans. Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Max Sisulu, Retired Judge, Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, They declared boldly that The greatest success shall Former Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Frene Ginwala, belonged to Former first lady of the Republic of South Africa, Sisi all who lived in it, black and come when man shall have white; that all shall be equal Zanele Mbeki, learned to cooperate, not Ministers and Deputy Ministers, before the law and that the Premiers and MECs here present, rights of the people shall only with his own kith and Mayors and councillors, be the same, regardless of Members of Parliament and Members of Provincial race, colour or gender. kin but also with all peoples Legislatures, and with all life. Leaders of political parties, Mr President, just over 57 Leaders of civil society organisations, years since the adoption of Leaders of faith-based organisations, the Freedom Charter we Traditional leaders, are back in Kliptown. We Pixley ka Isaka Seme Representatives of Chapter Nine Institutions, are here to take stock of Former Truth and Reconciliation Commission the progress we have made Commissioners, towards building a National Democratic Society that is Veterans of the South African struggle for national united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous. liberation, Representatives of labour, Like those who attended the Congress of the People in Representatives of business, 1955, we have come to Kliptown from all corners of our Their Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, country, carrying with us the aspirations of all the people Honoured guests, of South Africa. Like that generation of 1955, we will Members of the media, spend two days together at this historic venue to craft a shared destiny that belongs to all who live in it. I would like to pay special tribute to Ina Perlman, whose memorial service is taking place today. During the Consistent with the tradition of the Congress of the days millions of people received food through People, in the build-up to this Summit we conducted a Operation Hunger, an organisation that she led tirelessly. number of community conversations across the country. Through these conversations, we created a platform for The People of South Africa, Mr President, in 1955 at this South Africans to dialogue on the kind of society we seek very Kliptown, where we are gathered today, more than to build. 3 000 delegates from across the length and breadth of our country, representing all racial groups, came together In October 2009, we convened a Social Cohesion for the Congress of the People. The delegates came to Colloquium to discuss the state of social cohesion in our Kliptown by bus, by train, by car, on horseback and on country. We have also distributed for public comment a foot and spent two days crafting a vision for a non-racial document titled: “A National Strategy for Developing an and non-sexist South African society. Inclusive and Cohesive South African Society”.

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This document, as well as the inputs we received from This Summit must therefore not be merely another talk our community conversations, will form the basis of shop. Rather, it must mark a decisive step we are taking discussions at this Summit. This Summit, Mr President, is collectively to reach a point in our society where we put also in response to the call you made in 2009 to the our common South Africaness first before anything else. people of South Africa to engage in a national dialogue This Summit must also ensure that we use our diversity on the kind of society we seek to build. to propel us towards a common future, rooted in one overriding South African identity. You made this call, Mr President, fully aware that as South Africans we are a nation that has a proud history of Let us continue to work together to build a South African dialogue and engagement. This history of dialogue and society that is reflective of our collective aspirations, a engagement has carried us through difficult periods and society we can all call home. has seen us overcome many obstacles in the development of our young nation. Let the dialogue continue! We look forward to your contribution to the success of this Summit. We have convened this National Summit on Social Cohesion under the theme: “Working together to create a proud and caring society”.

Guided by this theme we Working Together to create must use this Summit to strengthen efforts to build a Proud and Caring Society a more inclusive, caring, humane and proud nation. This Summit must also Theme of the National assist us to develop a set of shared values that define Summit on Social who we are as South Cohension Africans and what kind of society we seek to build.

Equally, we must find comprehensive responses to address the constraints that limit our advance towards a more inclusive and cohesive society. We must come out of this Summit with a clear programme of action that we will implement jointly as government, civil society, business, labour and all other stakeholders.

This programme must assist us to deepen and expand the gains we have made thus far to unite the South African nation, to heal the wounds of the past and to strengthen social cohesion and national pride.

It is also our intention that at the end of this Summit there should be a declaration, reflecting our collective commitment to the ideals of one nation, one country, one people and a non-racial destiny for all who live in it, united in our diversity.

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KEYNOTE ADDRESS The motto in our National Coat of Arms, which means diverse people unite, also gives expression to our HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT ZUMA aspirations of a shared future that sees humanity as one and diversity as a source of strength. We were also The Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile and here in Kliptown on Human Rights Day, 21 March, and all Ministers and Premiers present reaffirmed our commitment to our Constitution and the The Speaker of the National Assembly, Max Sisulu Bill of Rights, which guarantees human rights for all. The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport from South Sudan Compatriots, we are also meeting here during the month Deputy ministers, members of Parliament and provincial of July, which is known as Moral Regeneration Month. legislatures This is an initiative of the Moral Regeneration Movement Mayors and councillors to encourage and promote positive values and a caring Leaders of political parties society in our country. We are also meeting during a Leaders of civil society organisations month known for its positive spirit and celebration, as Representatives of Chapter Nine Institutions in July we mark the legacy and birthday of our beloved Veterans of the South African struggle for national former President, Nelson Mandela, the first president of liberation a free and democratic South Africa. Members of the diplomatic corps Members of the media When we celebrate Madiba, we celebrate the triumph Fellow South Africans, of the human spirit over adversity, the triumph of the powerful force of forgiveness over anger and retribution We, as South Africans from all walks of life, are gathered and the triumph of the spirit of loving our country and here for a crucial dialogue. We have come together to putting South Africa first in everything we do. discuss how to bring to life what our forebears left us, a legacy that says this country belongs to all who live in it, black and white.

It was here in Kliptown that the Congress of the People in 1955 declared boldly in the Freedom Charter that South Africa belonged to all who live in it, black and white, and that no government could justly claim authority, unless it was based on the will of all the people.

This clarion call by that generation of visionaries and freedom fighters was in direct contrast to the views of those who conceptualised and established the in 1910. Those who established the Union did so in order to divide the people of South Africa along ethnic and racial lines, laying the basis for white minority domination.

The non-racial and shared future envisaged in the Freedom Charter has found expression in the preamble to our country’s Constitution, namely, “We the people of South Africa, recognise the injustices of our past…. Believe that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity”. President Zuma

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It is for this reason that this Summit has been convened prioritises caring for and respecting others. It is a society under the theme: “Working together to create a proud where there is quality education and healthcare, decent and caring society”. We are proud of our achievements housing, decent jobs, where all feel safe and secure and in burying apartheid and colonialism, and building a where there is an improved quality of life generally for all new society. We are proud of the history of selflessness regardless of their race, colour, gender or creed. and the vision displayed by the founding fathers of our democracy. It is a society that was described as follows by President Nelson Mandela during his inauguration in May 1994: Our illustrious leaders from 1912 said that despite the “Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for all. Let there pain that apartheid-colonialism imposed on us, we should, be work, bread, water and salt for all. Let each know that for for the sake of this country and its future, try to find a each the body, the mind and the soul have been freed to fulfil way to live together in peace and harmony, and build one themselves”. united nation. As we gather here to develop a National Strategy on Social Cohesion and Nation Building, we Let that message from Madiba inspire us as we deliberate acknowledge that this is not a strategy that government at this Summit. Learning from those who took part in the should design alone. Congress of the People in 1955 and in preparation for this Summit, we conducted community conversations in It is a national effort that various parts of the country. We, the people of South requires the views of many sectors and stakeholders. These conversations offered an opportunity for South Africa, recognise the And we are under no Africans to dialogue with each other on the kind of illusion that it is going to society we seek to build. South Africans discussed the injustices of our past... be easy. The South African critical question of what it meant to be a South African. believe that South Africa Nation is a product of many streams of history Many pointed to the success of the 2010 FIFA Soccer belongs to all who live in it, and culture, representing World Cup, especially with regard to the promotion of the origins, dispersal and unity and national pride, as an example of what a united united in our diversity re-integration of humanity South Africa should be. During that soccer tournament over hundreds of years. we succeeded in promoting national unity and in building a sense of common nationhood. President Zuma We have to build one national identity out of South Africans were united behind Bafana Bafana, our multiple identities based national soccer team, and in ensuring that the tournament on class, gender, age, language, geographic location, and became a success in all respects. Every citizen became an religion. Whilst we have made progress in institutionalising ambassador of our beautiful country. It was a wonderful the principle of an inclusive citizenship since 1994, moment and it showed us what is possible if we put our there are certain matters that still cause divisions and country first, above all else. frustrations. We need to ask ourselves whether that is the standard The challenges of poverty, unemployment, homelessness, of South Africaness that we are seeking, or if there is landlessness, and the divisions around race, class and something more that we can and should do to build the gender make it difficult to arrive at a socially cohesive South African dream. Indeed, there is a lot more that can and united society as fast as we would want to. Our define us as South Africans and can help to cement unity responsibility as government is to lead the South African and build the social cohesion we desire. people towards a national democratic society. This is a society that is united, non-sexist, non-racial, democratic First, our socio-economic transformation programme is a and prosperous. primary tool of national reconciliation, nation building and social cohesion. Therefore, the continuous programmes It is a society with a value system that is based on human of democratic transformation, as well as the expansion solidarity and ubuntu, a society that promotes and of basic services and improving the performance of the

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economy to create jobs, are all designed to create a Memorial sites to be prioritised include that of the united, cohesive society where all have access to a better Pondo Revolt, the sites of the Frontier Wars, the 1913 life. revolt by African women in the Free State, the 1957 anti- pass revolt by women in Zeerust, the Rocklands Civic People will be more responsive to social cohesion Centre in Mitchells Plain, where the United Democratic messages if there is hope and tangible examples of Front was formed, and the Gugulethu Seven monument movement towards a better life and economic freedom. in Cape Town. As government, we are seized with that programme of improving the quality of life of the historically oppressed We have also prioritized sites such as the Winnie Mandela black majority, especially the poor and the working class, house in Brandfort, the Dr James Moroka house in Thaba to promote unity and social cohesion. Nchu and the Bram Fischer house in Westdene. During last year’s National Day of Reconciliation we witnessed a There are various other programmes that government very important milestone in our endeavours to unite all is embarking on to promote unity, reconciliation, South Africans behind our shared history. nation building and cohesion. We must emphasise that reconciliation is a continuous two-way process, especially The Freedom Park and the Voortrekker Monument signed for a society that has gone through three centuries of a cooperation agreement, which opened the access road colonialism and apartheid. between the two institutions. This means that visitors can now access both monuments, and understand the history The heritage transformation projects that we are of both communities, black and white. embarking upon during this year in particular, will go a long way towards promoting reconciliation, unity and The heritage programme will continue, in order to lay nation building. Government, through the Department the foundation for a new democratic society with an of Arts and Culture, has identified 28 heritage projects. inclusive heritage and symbols. Compatriots, this year marks the 20th anniversary of South Africa’s readmission Through the upgrading and declaration of historic sites, into international sport in general and the Olympics in we will ensure a more representative and inclusive South particular. We all know the power of sport as a social African history and heritage. More important, this will cohesion tool. also contribute towards shared values and a common national identity in the country. In this regard we want to acknowledge the incalculable contribution of stalwarts such as the late Steve Tshwete Furthermore, the building and maintenance of new as well as people like Sam Ramsamy, Dennis Brutus and monuments and historic sites has a greater potential Josiah Thogwane and many others for repositioning South to stimulate economic activity and create much-needed Africa in the international family of sport and recreation. jobs in communities where these sites are located. These sites will also contribute towards cultural tourism both Because of the value of sport in nation building, domestically and internationally. Government is now investing in school sport more than ever before. The school sport budget has been increased We outlined during the State of the Nation address that from 27,3 million rand in the previous year to 42,6 museums and centres to be unveiled included the 1980 million rand. Thus far, we have managed to register 11 Matola Raid museum in Maputo, the Ncome museum in 000 out of 27 000 schools for participation in the 2012 KwaZulu-Natal, Phase Two of the Freedom Park museum School Sport Leagues and Competitions. and the Steve Biko heritage centre in Ginsberg in King Williamstown. We are doing this because the production of future Olympic gold medallists must start in our schools, We have also prioritised the homes and graves of former including the disadvantaged schools in predominantly ANC Presidents and other national heroes including black residential areas in both urban and rural areas. Our Thomas Mapikela, Lillian Ngoyi, Walter and Albertina promotion of sport to the youth is also directed at young Sisulu, Griffiths and Victoria Mxenge, former PAC women and girls. President Robert Sobukwe and others.

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Wew sa earlier on, in the qualifier championships, that This section further provides that national government our women’s teams are leading the pack, with Banyana and each provincial government may use at least two Banyana and the national women’s hockey team qualifying official languages. The Constitution also directs that all for the 2012 London Olympics. This is despite the still official languages enjoy parity of esteem and must be skewed resourcing of women’s teams, in comparison to treated equitably, which means we must treat them as their male counterparts. equal and afford them the necessary respect.

Banyana Banyana and the women’s hockey team have This is an important step that we are taking towards made us proud through their actions and commitment. building an inclusive society that belongs to all who live We wish to take this opportunity to congratulate all the in it. The languages spoken by the majority are being athletes and teams that have already qualified for the marginalized and this should be corrected. 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games. Another important part of promoting social cohesion Government has invested more than R31 million to is the protection and promotion of indigenous help Team SA prepare for London. We wish all of them knowledge systems. This may include promoting formal well and will be fully behind them as they represent the indigenous knowledge education and assisting indigenous rainbow nation. Compatriots, in addition to sport we can communities to establish cooperative structures to look at other instruments, such as our national symbols, organise themselves. which are a collective expression of where we come from, of who we are and what kind of future we seek Compatriots, today’s Summit is an important gathering of to build. our new nation. This Summit confirms that the promotion of social cohesion, nation building, and national identity The on-going process of are on the list of priorities for our country. The journey As South Africans we geographical name changes towards the kind of society envisaged by those visionaries have on many occasions and standardisation is who gathered at this very place in 1955 is long and full also part of the tools of of challenges. proved ourselves to be a bringing South Africans together, to promote a As we proceed along this journey, we will have to ask and nation that thrives and common nationhood and answer difficult questions. We will also have to confront finds solutions to difficult craft a new and inclusive complex and uncomfortable realities. However, as South narrative for our country. Africans we have on many occasions proved ourselves problems through dialogue, In addition, Government to be a nation that thrives and finds solutions to difficult has developed the Use of problems through dialogue, discussion and reaching out discussion and reaching out Official Languages Bill as to one another. to one another. part of promoting social cohesion. It was through dialogue and reaching out to one another that we were able to produce what is now fondly referred The Bill is in response to the provisions of section 6 to as the “South African miracle”. We must therefore look of the Constitution that not only identifies 11 official to the future with confidence that whatever challenges languages, but also obliges the state to take practical and face us, will be overcome. positive measures to elevate the status and advance the use of indigenous languages. This Summit must be yet another platform for us as South Africans to dialogue among ourselves, reach out to Section 6 of the Constitution provides that national and one another and move a step further in building a truly provincial governments may use any official language for united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous purposes of conducting government business in courts, South Africa. It is my honour and privilege to declare the in public notices, in official documents and in legislation. National Summit on Social Cohesion officially open!

I wish you all successful deliberations.

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DECLARATION AND 2. South Africa is a unitary and sovereign state based PROGRAMME OF ACTION on democracy, the rule of law, the pursuit of equal human rights, non-racialism, non-sexism and the Preamble equality of all people.

At this Summit we are reminded of the symbolism of our 3. Our past was based on racial and ethnic divisions National Coat of Arms and the Flag: devised to systematically exclude the majority “It is both South African and African; it is both African and of South Africans from full and unhindered Universal. It serves to invoke our distant past, our living participation in all aspects of national life and left present and our future as it unfolds before us. It represents the deep and persistent social, cultural and economic permanent yet evolving identity of the South African people as divisions and inequalities in society. it shapes itself through time and space. Through this new Coat of Arms we pay homage to our past. We seek to embrace 4. Advances have been made to entrench and the indigenous belief systems of our people by demonstrating consolidate human rights and restore the human our respect for the relationship between people and nature, dignity of all South Africans. which for millions of years have been fundamental to our self- understanding of our African condition”. 5. The following factors make the task of uniting diverse peoples to work together to build a caring Declaration and proud society complex and challenging: • Slow economic growth and transformation, We, representatives from all sectors of our society, which result in widespread unemployment, gathered at the Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication, poverty, inequality, and exclusion based on Kliptown, Soweto, on 4 and 5 July 2012 to participate race, age and gender. in the National Summit on Social Cohesion and Nation • Landlessness and homelessness among Building, under the theme “Working together to create a many South Africans and the persistence of caring and proud society.” apartheid spatial divisions, which perpetuate patterns of disproportionate land ownership We came here representing the diversity of our nation, and segregation. black and white, women and men, rich and poor, young • The burden of disease, in particular HIV/Aids and old, urban and rural, speaking different languages, and tuberculosis, which exacts a heavy toll on with a diversity of beliefs, from many different places, communities and society at large. seeking to fulfil the injunction of our Constitution • Uneven access to quality education and “diverse peoples unite”. training, which deprives young people of the knowledge and skills needed for social and We came together to renew our commitment, and economic development. to mobilise and unify society in our on-going national • High levels of crime and the abuse of the movement of healing the divisions of our painful past and elderly, women and children, which affect establishing a society based on democratic values, social communities and threaten safety and security. justice and fundamental human rights. • Gender inequalities in households, the workplace and society, which hinder Informed by the deliberations of the Summit and inspired the advancement of women and gender by our forebears, who assembled at this square 57 years mainstreaming. ago to adopt the Freedom Charter, we hereby declare • Racism and xenophobia, which perpetuate that: divisions and conflict in communities. • Service delivery failures in local communities, 1. Our discussions were informed by our common which lead to social instability, disintegration commitment to the injunction in the Constitution and conflict. of the Republic South Africa, adopted in 1996, that • Perceived and actual corruption in the public “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, both and private sectors, which erode confidence black and white, united in our diversity”. and trust.

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This Summit recognises that social cohesion depends 3. To ensure that social cohesion and nation to a large measure on our ability as society to address building underpins all national, provincial and thesechallenges. On the other hand, as a society we local government strategic priorities, inclusive need to cohere around a vision of a better South Africa, of integrated economic and social development, which we cannot attain if we do not work together. education, health, human settlement, land and Consequently, to address these challenges effectively, we rural development, safety and security, immigration the delegates resolve: policies and programmes, arts, culture, language and heritage development and preservation, 1. To mobilise society in its entirety to work and technological innovation, research and together to build a caring and proud society based development. on shared values and a vision informed by the following principles: 4. To promote and preserve all indigenous cultures • Constitutional democracy and knowledge. • Ubuntu • Human rights and equality 5. To accelerate change by improving the quality of • Non-racialism, non-tribalism and non-sexism life of all people, with special attention to the needs • Inclusivity and social justice of the youth, women and people with disabilities. • Redress and transformation • Intercultural and community cooperation 6. That the state must continue to build capacity to • Social solidarity drive the socio economic agenda in the country, • Empowered, fair, inclusive and active including absorbing young people and women citizenship into economic activity, employing professionals, • Civic responsibility investing in skills required by the economy, and • Unity in diversity investing in research and development to respond • National consciousness and identity. to the demands of the knowledge economy.

2. To work towards the implementation of 7. To continue to fight any forms of discrimination, the recommendations of the 2030 National which are threats to social cohesion and nation Development Plan as a long-term vision that building. should serve as a basis for partnerships across society to attain the South Africa of our dreams, 8. To respect human dignity and equality, promote so eloquently articulated in the Constitution. freedom, democracy and the rule of law, improve material well-being and economic justice, enhance sound family and community values, uphold honesty, integrity and loyalty, ensure harmony in culture, belief and conscience, show respect and concern for all people, strive for justice, fairness and peaceful co-existence, and protect the environment as contained in the Charter of Positive Values adopted by the Moral Regeneration Movement in 2008.

9. To expand existing national, heritage and other honours and awards to recognise individuals, organisations and communities that contribute significantly to social cohesion and nation building.

10. To develop a nation building project management Minister listening attentively at one of the commissions manual and toolkit for application at all levels and

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to convene social cohesion and nation building Conclusion summits at provincial, local and community level within the next 12 months. As set out in the 1994 Reconstruction and Development Programme: 11. To convene a national social cohesion report- “No political democracy can survive and flourish if the back and monitoring summit in 2014 when we mass of our people remain in poverty, without land, without celebrate 20 years of our freedom and democracy, tangible prospects for a better life. Attacking poverty and and thereafter at five-year intervals progress. deprivation must therefore be the first priority of a democratic government.” 12. To develop a detailed plan from the proposals made at this Summit, which will be presented As representatives of all walks of society, we are to the President and Cabinet on our behalf by a determined to fulfil the vision of the 2030 National group of eminent South Africans. Development Plan:

In pursuit of these resolutions, we commit ourselves, “We have created a home where everybody feels free yet and all sectors of society represented at this Summit, bound to others, where everyone embraces their full potential. to work together to realise the ideals enshrined in our We are proud to be a community that cares.” Constitution, and assert that our organisations and institutions will strive to contribute all we can to realise our common national objective to attain a decent and improving quality of life for all, in a society united in its diversity.

We depart from this historic venue united in our commitment to building a nation that is caring and dignified, and has a great sense of humility and mutual respect for one another.

Inter-faith prayers during formal proceedings

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OVERVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL SOCIAL COHESION SUMMIT

Overview

The Social Cohesion Summit was held from 4-5 July 2012 After the first day’s plenary sessions, all delegates in Kliptown, Soweto. The Summit was attended by over a participated in five Commissions, where the challenges thousand delegates from across South Africa, representing of social cohesion were discussed in more detail. The government and civil society, business and labour, political Commissions were organised around the following parties and cultural and religious groups. A number of themes, with presentations and deliberations: eminent South Africans who played a leading role in the emergence and shaping of a democratic society also • Economic inequalities participated in the Summit. • Spatial divisions • Social interaction, cooperation and solidarity The Summit took place over two days, with an Opening • Prejudice and discrimination Session where the Summit Keynote Address was • National identity and unity. delivered by His Excellency President Jacob Zuma. All Commissions reported back to the Plenary, giving an overview of the main issues and recommendations from It was through dialogue and The Plenary session also their discussions. included an address by reaching out to one another Minister Paul Mashatile The Summit was concluded with the adoption of a outlining the process Declaration in the final plenary session. The Declaration that we were able to leading up to and the captured the speeches, discussions in commissions and produce what is now fondly purpose of the Summit, plenary and the main intent and outcomes of the Summit. and inputs on the role of Minister Mashatile in the closing address thanked all referred to as the “South various sections of society delegates and drew attention to the processes ahead. in building social cohesion, African miracle”. namely legislatures and parliaments, government, political parties, labour, President Zuma business and civil society.

The Summit received Messages of Endorsements from the Most Reverend Doctor Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town, Mr Herman Mashaba, and Ms Sophie Williams-de Bruyn on behalf of the 1950s generation.

Special guest, the Honourable Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport from the Republic of South Sudan, Dr Cirino

Hiteng Ofuho, addressed the Summit on a comparative perspective on social cohesion from the rest of the continent.

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PROCEEDINGS OF DAY ONE: non-racial society, with respect for one another and the 4 July 2012 will to work together for a caring and proud society.

OPENING SESSION Host, Minister Mr Paul Mashatile, was then introduced as was the Culture, Youth and Sport Minister of South Sudan, Dr. Cirino Hiteng Ofuho. National Poet Laureate, Professor Purpose of the Summit and keynote address Keorapetse Kgositsile, delivered a poetry rendition. Programme Director – Dr Joe Phaahla, Deputy Minister

--- The Summit was opened with interfaith prayers.

Purpose of the Summit – Minister of Arts and The Programme Director acknowledged delegates and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile guests, including the President, His Excellency President Jacob Zuma; the host, Minister Paul Mashatile; and Dr The purpose of the Summit was outlined by Mr Paul Cirino Hiteng Ofuho, South Sudan’s Minister of Culture, Mashatile, Minister of Arts and Culture. As host Minister Youth and Sport. of the Summit, he welcomed all distinguished guests. ---

--- Opening and Welcome – MEC Mr Lebogang Maile Keynote Address – His Excellency President Jacob Zuma Member of the Executive Council for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Mr Lebogang Maile, representing the , Ms , In his keynote address the President remarked that the welcomed delegates and guests, including His Excellency purpose of the Summit that had gathered South Africans President Jacob Zuma, the Speaker of the National from all walks of life was a “crucial dialogue”. Assembly, the Minister of Arts and Culture, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, the Premier of the Western Cape, In closing his address the President described the Summit leaders of political parties, religious leaders, leaders of as a platform for South Africans to dialogue, reach out to different sectors of society, dignitaries, and all guests and one another and move a step further in building a truly delegates. The MEC hoped that after the Summit, South united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous Africa would have a comprehensive plan for building a South Africa.

Soweto Gospel Choir singing the National Anthem

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PLENARY SESSION ROLE OF PARLIAMENT, LEGISLATURES AND COUNCILS The role of the judiciary, parliament, – SPEAKER OF THE NATIONAL legislatures, councils and political parties ASSEMBLY, MR MAX SISULU Programme Director – Dr Joe Phaahla Facilitator – Dr Alex Boraine Mr Sisulu, on behalf of the National Assembly, expressed appreciation to delegates for their participation in the Dr Boraine introduced the background paper “A National Summit at the historic site of Kliptown. The Freedom Strategy for Creating a Socially Inclusive South Africa”, Charter that was drawn up at the site, and that stated which had been prepared for the Summit. Dr Boraine that “the people shall govern”, remained a beacon of emphasised that the strategy document would inform hope that could be looked up to, he said. the discussion in commissions. In the eighteenth year of democracy, South Africa could --- now reflect on the collective and individual roles that had been played by all. The country had an enriched democracy THE ROLE OF THE JUDICIARY – where four successful democratic elections had been JUDGE YVONNE MOKGORO held and where there had been a seamless transition following each election. Nation building had been one of Judge Mokgoro acknowledged the President, distinguished the goals for this term of Parliament, where initiatives guests and delegates, and began by saying that social and plans had been developed to achieve the greater goal cohesion had been placed high on the agenda, and rightly of social cohesion. so. The Judge went on to refer to social cohesion as We cannot survive unless something that held the community together through Mr Sisulu underscored the social justice. Past injustices should be used as a reference importance of assessing the material needs of the to create a different and better reality. The “Equality the contribution of Clause” in the Constitution provided a basis for an development efforts to a people are addressed. inclusive society, with regard to race, gender, sex, ethnicity, sense of belonging in the religion, age, disability, belief, culture, language and birth. nation and encouraged The Judge highlighted the courage of South Africa, with working together. “Social Former President Mandela a constitutional dispensation in which the state provides cohesion” was not just for the basic needs of society. She remarked that other a slogan but a building emerging democracies have followed this example. block encapsulated in the Freedom Charter, he said. It is important that the people of South Africa be active The three arms of the state working together is a participants in finding solutions for the country. The source of great pride and global envy, the Judge said. The members of Parliament were responsible for safeguarding courts should at all times exercise their duty to uphold the participation of all and actively seeking voices and constitutional rights and the values of freedom. In the opinions from all corners of society. Rights needed to be context of the separation of powers, each arm of the enforceable. state, one of which is the judiciary, has its mandate that feeds into the constitutional mandate. The Courts are Restoring the dignity of people was a goal of high priority. not an extended arm of Parliament, they work in terms He commented that, unfortunately, the current recession of the Constitution, and are uniquely placed to advance had impacted negatively on the achievement of this goal. the promises of the Constitution. In conjunction with the Unemployment had forced a redefining of our goals. Department of Justice, pilot projects have been instituted Parliament had to be the link between the people and by the Judiciary, for example, addressing the exorbitant government. In conclusion, Mr Sisulu quoted from former costs of litigation. President Nelson Mandela, that a lot still had to be done and to “... make the point very firmly, [we] cannot survive In conclusion, Judge Mokgoro said that judges in courts unless the material needs of the people ... are addressed.” uphold a perspective and approach that fulfils the role of social cohesion in society.

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THE ROLE OF POLITICAL PARTIES citizens using their opportunities for the benefit of IN BUILDING A SOCIALLY the country. Opportunity only made a difference if INCLUSIVE SOCIETY citizens used it and there could be no short cuts to social cohesion. • African National Congress (ANC) – Mr ---

Mr Mantashe, Secretary-General of the ANC, • Congress of the People (COPE) – Mr emphasised that the ANC believed in a caring and Phumelele Ntshiqela proud society and strove for unity, democracy and prosperity. The ANC also believed that the pillars of The representative of COPE, on behalf of the leader of the law should be upheld and that the media should COPE, Mr , stressed that the Summit be independent. These principles were linked to the had to produce results and that the different cultures South African Constitution. The Preamble of the had to ensure that a development programme be Constitution read that South Africa belonged to all implemented or else nothing would make sense, who lived in it, both black and white. because without that the divisions between citizens would increase. Mr Mantashe called for progress and for observation of unity and respect for diversity, built on principles --- of human civilisation and social justice. In furthering the rights of the nation, there should be collective • (IFP) – Mr Ben action. 2012, the Year of Unity and Diversity through Skosana Arts, Culture and Sport, contributed to nation building and social cohesion. In the ANC’s view, the Mr Skosana, on behalf of the leader of the IFP, Dr Strategy Document on Nation Building and Social , emphasised that if social Cohesion had to be a living document that would cohesion was not achieved, then lawlessness would change in response to changing conditions. prevail. The IFP believed that it was important to build partnerships through social cohesion, to --- achieve unity amongst the diverse groups in South Africa. This required empowered citizens and • Democratic Alliance (DA) – Premier of the should begin in the classrooms and not merely as Western Cape, Ms Helen Zille educational campaigns. The IFP also believed that the violent service delivery campaigns necessitated an As leader of the DA, Premier Zille was very pleased understanding of local government. to address the Summit on ‘”Creating a caring and proud society” and believed that more care and --- cohesion was needed. The DA believed that both government and citizens needed to take more pride, • United Democratic Movement (UDM) – to care and to be passionate about the poorest General of the poor because that could not be done by citizens only. She elaborated that caring citizens As leader of the UDM, General Holomisa was were ones who used their opportunities in life, pleased to address the Social Cohesion Summit. In who took responsibility for using them as an active 2008, the UDM proposed talking about economic partner in their own development and in that of the emancipation and suggested that social cohesion country. The DA believed that social cohesion was should be an integral part of it on a regular, ongoing about people living together harmoniously, feeling basis. The majority of citizens needed to be enabled a sense of belonging, and participating in the civic to generate wealth for themselves and solutions for and social life of their communities, and that it was the land needed to be found. Other socio-economic a partnership. The DA believed that there could issues including infrastructure in neglected areas, be no nation building without active, responsible food security, and the failing education system needed to be addressed.

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• Freedom Front (FF+) – Dr Corné Mulder and widened the gap between representatives and the so-called represented. The PAC believed that the Dr Mulder, on behalf of the leader of the FF+, Mr Pieter distortions of history, the dehumanisation of people Mulder, noted that the Preamble to the Constitution and the dispossession of land could not be erased. clearly stated that “... South Africa belongs to all who In 1959, Robert Sobukwe addressed these issues, live in it, united in our diversity” and the FF+ believed, saying “… how men shall live in fellowship, harmony if taken seriously, South Africa would already have and peace”. The PAC believed there should be a achieved social cohesion. The FF+ believed that the just distribution of resources as a prerequisite for current process for social cohesion would fail too, if social cohesion, and that education should be used a true sense of belonging were not found. The FF+ to liberate the young and reintroduce African norms believed that the surge of national pride through and values that were lacking. The PAC also believed artificial forms of nation building through many that the African royalty had a role to play. The PAC sports events such as the 2010 World Cup was not was committed to being part of and supporting sustainable and failed. They believed that successful, initiatives to restore dignity. long-lasting social cohesion could only be found when there was really a better life for all, including minorities. --- Failures such as the disregard for all citizens with regard to how taxes were spent, or of name changes • Azanian People’s Organisation (AZAPO) – without consultation, or the insult of removing the Mr Strike Thokoane names of Afrikaner heroes, showed the government was not serious about social cohesion. The FF+ called Mr Thokoane, on behalf of the leader of AZAPO, Mr for a dedicated Department of Minority Affairs to Jacob Koti Dikobo, paid tribute to Tsietso Mashinini, a eradicate the alienation of minorities. leader of the 1976 Soweto uprising, Mbuyisa Makhubo, the 19-year-old who carried Hector Peterson after --- he was shot on 16 June 1976, and Steve Biko. AZAPO believed in people first and noted that engaging with • African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – the social cohesion process had to result in a different Mr Raymond Thlali outcome for South Africa; it should transform the nation and bring people together. AZAPO believed Mr Thlali, on behalf of the leader of the ACDP, the that issues of principle needed to be addressed and Rev. , emphasised that the ACDP self-enrichment had to be stopped. supported the building of a caring society empowered with skills to transform their own circumstances. --- The ACDP believed that the achievement of social cohesion would lead to a sense of belonging. They • African People’s Convention (APC) – Mr believed there should be regular social education for voters and citizens and a balance of opposing demands; that citizens should be mobilised to As leader of the APC, Mr Godi emphasised that social participate in society and that political parties should cohesion should be used to build new values and play a significant role in achieving this. The ACDP restore humanity. He stated that the South African believed social cohesion could only be built if citizens’ historical context should be taken into account to rights were observed and there was a fair allocation appreciate the challenges South Africa had not yet of resources for all. addressed and that that needed to be done within a context that embraced Africanism, with a distinct --- goal to support and propagate all that was African. Currently, South Africans simply had legal citizenship. • Pan African Congress (PAC) – Ms Andiswa The tragedy of alienation experienced by the peoples Mjali of the Northern and Western Cape needed to be recognized and addressed, and they needed to Ms Mjali, on behalf of the leader of the PAC, Mr rediscover the sense of self as described by Kwame , stated that the PAC believed that Nkrumah. Inequalities also had to be addressed to moral degeneration, lack of identity and discipline, and help people move forward. The state also needed to lack of access to resources fostered further disparity be active in shaping the economy.

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RESPONDENTS With regard to corruption, the Minister commented on perceptions that corruption had a racial • Minister Paul Mashatile character and observed that that would not assist the achievement of cohesion in society. The approach The Minister commented that many of the issues should be to act against corruption wherever it raised by political parties could be addressed and was present in any form. He emphasised that the debated further in commissions on the second day categorisation of black Africans as unwanted and of the Summit. He emphasised that partnerships illegal because of the colour of their skins is divisive. were needed to achieve the goals of nation building Racism of this kind should also be fought against. He and social cohesion. He underlined that the Summit concluded that social cohesion should be a national needed to have practical outcomes. call inclusive of forgiveness and acceptance of each other and of the events of the past. • Minister Jeff Radebe • Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma The Minister echoed and agreed with the point made by Judge Mokgoro on the independence of The Minister commented that for social cohesion to the judiciary, and stated that it should be guaranteed. be real, equality had to be understood and practised; He reported that Government had no intention of there had to be no superiority among people; interfering with the independence of the judiciary entitlement because of race could not exist; equality and that the proclamation of an office of the Chief meant equality in any form for everybody. The Justice was a step towards the total independence Constitution resonated with the Freedom Charter, of the judiciary, including an administration that was which stated that “South Africa belongs to all who managed by the judiciary itself. live in it”. This means no entitlement to any particular group. Minorities should not be treated separately With regard to social cohesion, the Minister and differently as the Constitution was inclusive of commented on the importance of the equality everybody. of people across race, culture and gender, as a cornerstone of the South African Constitution, The Reconstruction and Development Programme with emphasis on acceleration of the participation (RDP) needed to be continued, in a people-centred of women in particular, in political, economic, social, and driven way, which again resonated with the educational and cultural spheres of life. With this in Freedom Charter, which stated that “the people mind, in terms of political participation, he observed shall govern”. Parliament should reach out more that we should be proud that, since 1994, there had and involve people in governance and service been a rise in the number of women in Parliament. delivery. People should not be passive recipients of He drew attention to principles such as democracy, government programmes. human rights and equality, non-racism, non-sexism, non-tribalism and unity in diversity as core principles The Freedom Charter also called for the people to for social cohesion. He proposed that, in building share in the country’s wealth, and that had to include consensus on a national strategy on social cohesion, access to education and health, access to the law mainstreaming social inclusion and combating and other important services. Jobs, unemployment, nepotism, patronage and corruption should be poverty and inequality needed to be addressed. There monitored. were poor countries with greater social cohesion because there was less inequality. The environment The Minister commented on the indicators of social in which people lived needed to change. Segregation cohesion and nation building. He commented that of residential areas needed to be addressed. crime hindered free social integration of people, resulting in the building of high walls and fences. He Lastly, the state needed to be an active state, without observed that challenges of gender equity and social reliance on markets to transform society. Equality exclusion confined women to reproductive and in all forms was a prerequisite for social cohesion domestic roles in the family. because without equality, social cohesion would be difficult to achieve.

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PLENARY SESSION • Mr Herman Mashaba

Endorsement of the Summit Lungisani Ndlovu, a learner at Isaac Mhlambi Comparative experience from the School in Sasolburg, read a message on behalf of African Continent Mr Herman Mashaba, who could not personally The role of labour, business and civil attend the Summit. society “I believe that those of us who live in South Programme Director – Dr Joe Phaahla Africa today are the heirs to everything that man Facilitator – Dr Brigalia Bam has strived to do to create one human family. It is significant that South Africa is considered the Cradle of Humankind today. SUMMIT ENDORSEMENTS Those of us who are citizens of this beautiful • The Most Reverend Doctor Thabo Makgoba, nation have been chosen by history and fate to Archbishop of Cape Town bring to reality the greatest human experiment on earth: To give a human face to the world through The Reverend Xolani Dlwati read a message on the realization of a non-racist, non-sexist and behalf of Archbishop Makgoba, who could not democratic society in Africa and the world. personally attend the Summit. In his message, the Archbishop shared his thoughts on social I have known no other home except the life that cohesion, stating that he endorsed the objectives I was born into and lived throughout my life in of the Summit and encouraged this first step in South Africa. Much as one cannot wish away or the process. He gave assurance of his prayers deny the legacy of colonialism and apartheid on for the Summit and the actions that came of it. all our lives, I believe that the last 18 years have Preoccupation with failings should not become marked a turning point in our efforts to build a just the focus since that would drag people down. and equal society. In the same breath, however, failings needed to be acknowledged and faced, with the aim of I am a product of poverty, unemployment and overcoming them. Also needed was a commitment its consequences. But there is no doubt that as to high aspirations following the leadership of patriotic citizens we can overcome hurdles that those who signed the Freedom Charter and those confront us. I see myself – and many other resilient ordinary South Africans, from all walks of life, who beings – as an example of what man can achieve. dreamed of a better South Africa. It is for this reason that I believe that the Social Our best hopes for the nation, not our worst Cohesion Summit is one of the most important fears, should drive our nation. The goal of a caring historical events to take place in South Africa society should guide us and not hold us back, the over the last 22 years since the release of Nelson Archbishop said. He referred to Saint Paul who, Mandela. This is an important national initiative in a letter to the Philippians, said that “whatever that sees all South Africans from all walks of life, is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, race, class and background coming together to whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever bring into reality all our aspirations and hopes. It is is commendable; if there is any excellence or time for all of us to walk the talk. praise, let your mind dwell on these things ...” With this in mind, the Archbishop added, whatever the I am a caring and proud citizen of this country who difficulties that must be counted or named, we is very happy to align himself with this significant should never take our eyes off the prize, never initiative. I – together with millions of other like- doubt what could direct us to all that was ; minded people – am very happy to contribute in we needed to have the courage to reach for it. any way that I can to help propel this South African

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Dream into a practical reality. It is up to us, especially This Summit will no doubt move our country through what we do in our conduct, behaviour and forward along the path of unity, non- racialism, attitude, to bring into reality everything that we non-sexism, democracy and prosperity for all. have fought for over the centuries. I trust that this Summit will expand and deepen the I believe that South Africa can give the world a gains we have made thus far to unite the people of human face. South Africa, to heal the wounds of our unhappy past and to propel us towards a shared future. You can count me in.” Fellow South Africans, let us continue to build --- a proud nation that we can all call home; a true rainbow nation that is at peace with itself and the • Ms Sophie Williams-de Bruyn, on behalf of world. the 1950s generation I congratulate all those who made this Summit Ms Sophie Williams-de Bruyn addressed the possible. We look forward to the outcomes of Summit. your deliberations.

“Fellow South Africans, just over 57 years ago, I I wish you all a successful Summit.” was one of the more than 3 000 South Africans from across the length and breadth of our country gathered here in Kliptown at the Congress of the People to define an alternative South African society; a society that was just and equal and where human dignity was guaranteed.

We met here in Kliptown as equals irrespective of race, colour or creed and adopted the Freedom Charter, which is today the basis of our democratic Constitution and carries our aspirations of a shared future that belongs to all who live in it, black and white, united in our diversity.

It is my singular honour that 57 years later I am back here in Kliptown once more to join South Africans from all walks of life to take stock of the progress we have made in building the kind of society envisaged by the 1955 generation of freedom fighters.

A summit of this nature, where we, as this generation of South Africans, can dialogue on the kind of society we seek to build, is indeed a timely intervention.

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COMPARATIVE EXPERIENCE THE ROLE OF LABOUR, BUSINESS FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT AND CIVIL SOCIETY IN BUILDING A – SOUTH SUDAN MINISTER OF SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE SOCIETY CULTURE, YOUTH AND SPORT, DR CIRINO HITENG OFUHO In introducing this session, Dr Brigalia Bam shared her appreciation for the opportunity created for non-governmental The Minister brought greetings from the new Republic of organisations (NGOs) to participate in the summit process. She South Sudan. He stated his belief that the country had a expressed confidence in the shared commitment to partnerships lot in common with South Africa, with over 200 years of with government in creating social cohesion in the nation. struggle. He relayed the message from South Sudan that “the door for investment is wide open”. THE ROLE OF LABOUR IN BUILDING A SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE The Minister commented that South Africans were SOCIETY not the only people who faced challenges with social cohesion and that similar challenges were faced • COSATU – General Secretary, Mr elsewhere in Africa. He suggested that a greater impact Zwelenzima Vavi could be made through a continental agenda for social cohesion in Africa. He proposed that the problems of Mr Vavi congratulated President Zuma and the ethnicity should be fought through social cohesion and Minister of Arts and Culture on the present relationships built among people. He expressed the view initiative to achieve a caring and proud South that the challenges of ethnic diversity in Africa should be Africa. He asked if we had achieved the ideals of confronted head-on. the Freedom Charter to create opportunities, to open the doors of learning and culture. He noted Greed fosters a The Minister identified the that it was sad that these had not been achieved following six key issues for and that millions of South Africans were still denied lack of cohesion attention to foster social socio-economic rights as set out in the Freedom cohesion: Charter. He noted the triple challenges of unemployment, 1. Leadership: Strong leadership was needed for poverty and inequality and stated that the reality equitable sharing of power, including political was that there was a 36% unemployment rate and power. that South Africa was still one of the most unequal 2. Electoral systems were a source of discontent and nations. On behalf of COSATU, he urged that the an independent electoral commission was essential plan under discussion be implemented to avoid the to ensure transparency. Summit becoming merely another talk shop. He 3. Executive powers needed to be shared equally. made an appeal that the Summit focuses on issues that matter. 4. The Legislature should not be compromised and should be strengthened through institution --- building. 5. Public participation needed to be built through • FEDUSA – General Secretary, Mr Dennis consensus. George 6. Traditional and cultural arrangements were critical. Mr George stated that FEDUSA believed that all In conclusion, he warned that greed fostered a lack of men and women were created equal. He outlined cohesion. that the Federation had transformed and currently more than 65% of members were black. The Federation’s view was that a quality education was the best gift that could be given to a South African child and that those who stood in the

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way of quality education had to be removed. He THE ROLE OF BUSINESS IN concluded by saying that the view of FEDUSA was BUILDING A SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE that it was better to appoint a white person who SOCIETY was committed to the disadvantaged than a black person who was not. Tough decisions such as this • Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) – Ms needed to be made. Nomaxabiso Majokweni

--- BUSA participated in NEDLAC, a platform that, if used appropriately, would embed social cohesion • NACTU – Vice-President, Mr Mamaponya and build trust. The principle of goodwill bore a Makgoba direct relationship to building trust and economic relationships. BUSA believed that that could be Mr Makgoba stated that it was the view of achieved. However, BUSA also believed that if NACTU that society should be aware that social unemployment was left unattended to, it could be cohesion could only be realised when the gaps and a recipe for disaster. BUSA believed that that could inequalities were addressed in earnest and that be overcome by addressing the supply side, through there had to be a will to do that. NACTU believed bridging the gap between the education system and that there needed to be a will to protect workers the working world by working on interventions that social cohesion was critical, and that social for the youth. BUSA believed transformation cohesion should not be a once-off process. was important to build social cohesion and that social cohesion was not sustainable without --- transformation. In conclusion, BUSA commented on the need to embrace gender transformation, • Solidarity – General-Secretary, Mr Flip Buys the importance of creating economic development zones, the necessity of closing the pay gaps, and Mr Buys stated that Solidarity believed the Summit the imperative of business to lead by example by was timely, owing to widespread concerns in South working together and not in isolation. Africa. He suggested that there was a need to build trust and Solidarity was committed to being a part --- of that. However, Solidarity warned that building trust could not be a once-off process and that • NAFCOC – Mr Lawrence Mavundla trust should be built at all levels and amongst all sectors and communities. Solidarity also believed NAFCOC congratulated Minister Mashatile that there should be education around wage and the government for organising the Summit. negotiations. NAFCOC noted that racial patterns of ownership were visible on the Stock Exchange and expressed In conclusion, Solidarity expressed the view that concern that townships were excluded from it was time to renew the national dialogue on participation in the economy. NAFCOC called issues that affected communities in order to build for regulation of business to ensure local content. a harmonious, inclusive society with a focus on In conclusion, NAFCOC stated that South Africa building two important values, namely unity and would not achieve peace if the majority were reconciliation. Solidarity reached out in friendship excluded and if the current levels of unemployment to constructively work together. and poverty continued. Transformation was needed for peaceful co-existence.

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• Black Business Council (BBC) – Mr Sandile Ms Gumede concluded by saying that civil society Zungu showed tolerance, which was needed as a starting point to achieve social cohesion. It also spoke out The BBC applauded the initiative and underlined when events took place that threatened society in contributions of other speakers on the importance any way. She proposed that the media play a role to of building partnerships to build a cohesive society. share with communities the encouraging news of The BBC commented that building a false sense of social cohesion that was being built at the Summit. social cohesion should be avoided and emphasised the importance of participation in the mainstream --- of the economy. The view of BBC was that business had to be at the centre of initiatives such as the • Lead SA – Mr Yusuf Abramjee Summit to implement measures to build social cohesion and to evaluate their performance. He Mr Abramjee said an active civic society was what called on the Summit to make a commitment to Lead SA was trying to create. A society with national get rid of corruption and work towards positive pride where there was a realisation that a difference values and a work ethic that portrayed patriotism. could be made. He explained the initiative by Lead Citizens should ask what they could do for this SA to support the South African Olympic team by country and how they could grow the economy. instituting “Team South Africa Friday”, encouraging Social cohesion should be an inclusive growth people to wear any South African sports shirt in model that was sustainable in order to address the support and solidarity. Mandela Day was also a day triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and that Lead SA was supporting and he urged all to inequality. In closing, the BBC stated that trust was support, as events like those certainly helped to fundamental and that social cohesion should be a achieve social cohesion. He expressed the view collective undertaking. that Government had to be held accountable regarding the achievement of social cohesion. Lead --- SA made a call of action for everyone to stand up for what was right and what was decent, and to THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY IN stand up and lead South Africa. If we didn’t, who BUILDING A SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE would? SOCIETY --- • Legal Resources Centre -– Ms Zodwa Gumede • Foundation for Human Rights (FHR) – Mr The Legal Resources Centre uses the law to protect Hanif Vally those who are marginalised and unprotected. It is made up of diverse organisations that work The view of the Foundation for Human Rights everywhere and with everyone, and partner with was that the struggle for human rights was well government in actions to build social cohesion. documented and celebrated in this country. Ms Gumede reminded the Summit that there There was a struggle for justice, including social was no one idea that would solve all problems, justice, resulting in a great Constitution that was but that progress was a step-by-step process. She a source of pride. Poverty could be combated commented that there was a need to determine by providing capabilities such as adequate health what social cohesion actually meant and suggested care, quality education and sustainable economic that it meant that peace and harmony were in place. opportunities; these were rights that were in our She said that that had been achieved to a certain Constitution and should be upheld. There should extent in South Africa, with the Constitution, the also be a subjugation of power to the law in pursuit courts, including the Equality Court, as well as of a more equal society. The FHR was concerned informal courts that safeguard peace and harmony. that material status was more important and responded to the aspirations of young people. The effect of that was the erosion of social cohesion.

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• Heritage Foundation – Major-General Gert RESPONDENTS Opperman • Ministry for Performance Monitoring and The foundation associated itself with the aims of Evaluation – Minister Collins Chabane the Summit and saw the organisation as an agent of constructive change that could play a part in The Minister reminded delegates of the racism contributing to social cohesion. Social cohesion conference, which was a building block towards was especially important considering the history social cohesion. He remarked that social cohesion of South Africa and we needed, with pride, to needed to be based on sound political principles build a positive future to leave to the children of and that the leadership needed to be sound. tomorrow. In attending the Summit, the foundation South Africa was diverse and the Summit had to wished to reach out and contribute to breaking contribute to social cohesion and nation building. down racial divisions. He concluded by commenting The Minister urged that a wide range of issues be that building a bridge of cooperation between the debated in commissions and solutions be found. Voortrekker Museum and Freedom Park Museum was a good example of creating social cohesion The Minister commented that participation in around where we came from as a people. national days, meant to bring South Africa together, could be improved. He suggested that we were --- attentive but impatient when dealing with diversity, as we did not value opposing viewpoints. • Progressive Women’s Movement – Ms Xoliswa Bam On reaching the twentieth year of democracy, South Africa needed to review how far it had The Progressive Women’s Movement sought to progressed in creating a cohesive society and nation. empower women in all matters that affected them He reminded delegates that trust and honesty in respect of the social ills of the nation. It was were critical ingredients for social cohesion and informed by the Millennium Development Goals, remarked that exclusive organisations created in such as “the emancipation of women and justice cohesive societies. for all ...” – a quote from the late O. R. Tambo. He urged delegates to focus on actions that bound Gender equality was smart economics; it improved South Africans and to fight against what kept them the wellbeing of children through the involvement apart. He concluded by stating that the media of women. South Africa could be commended for were an important medium of communicating promoting women’s rights, but on the same note, information but noted that if the media played there was more to be done to reduce poverty a negative role it undermined cohesion. He and increase opportunities for women. Ms Bam underlined the imperative upon the privileged and concluded by saying that the Progressive Women’s strong to reach out to the underprivileged and Movement was working closely with the education weak. ministry to contribute to social cohesion.

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• National Planning Commission – Mr Joel • National Planning Commission – Mr Mike Netshitenzhe Muller

Mr Netshitenzhe emphasised that in dealing with Mr Muller commented on the important role of social cohesion, people’s material conditions professionals, for example, engineers. He observed did matter; but that there was a need to avoid that the geography of South Africa separated us reductionism. Rather, we should also appreciate that from each other. Engineers designed residential ideas and attitudes could congeal independently areas to keep people apart resulting in a township of economic conditions. To attain social cohesion, close to Sandton, for example, seeming to be in society needed to deal with poverty and inequality; another country. He posed the challenge that but at the same time, to deal with poverty improvement of basic needs be accomplished and inequality required a certain level of social without strengthening division, but bringing cohesion. It was imperative to work towards social South Africans closer together. He urged that stability and to pursue social inclusivity; and to that the location of human settlements should not end, to forge a social compact among all sectors of reinforce divisions in society. society. Mr Muller also commented on access to It was encouraging that all sectors appreciated that information, which reflected inequalities in society our levels of poverty and inequality would imperil as not everyone had access to information from the both the rich and the poor. Others have suggested public broadcaster. He again urged professionals that inequality was an equal opportunity disease. to use the tools at their disposal to bring people A national development plan could be used to together and work against what kept people apart. engage these issues. In this context, leaders of each He concluded by saying that professionals could sector should not only pursue benefits for their contribute in different ways to bringing society constituencies; but also pose to themselves the together and improving social cohesion, instead of question of what contributions and what sacrifices furthering division. they could make to attain the common good. Trade-offs and difficult choices would need to be identified by the leadership.

For that to happen, we needed to establish or strengthen informal platforms of interaction in particular. Mr Netshitenzhe asked if formal platforms such as NEDLAC were capable of playing that role, as the tendency in those structures was for sectoral leaders to come with frozen mandates. The Millennium Labour Council and the Working Groups needed to be resuscitated. It was also important for leaders to have the courage to communicate unpopular decisions to their constituencies. Society should also strive for community mini-compacts on such issues as education, crime, local job-creation and economic opportunities. Mr Netshitenzhe also made the point that the assumption of responsibility by civil society did not liberate the state from its leadership responsibilities. One element of the state’s role was to break logjams when social partners deadlocked and could not reach agreement.

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CLOSING REMARKS BY DEPUTY MINISTER PHAAHLA ON THE CLOSURE OF DAY ONE

Deputy Minister Phaahla closed day one of the Summit.

“I would like to thank you for your attention and time Our ultimate goal tomorrow is to agree on a Declaration spent on the first day of the Summit. that will capture the spirit of our deliberations. Equally, we must agree on a Programme of Action that we will jointly We have heard various inputs from H. E. President Zuma, implement as government, business, labour, civil society the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Sisulu, retired organizations and all other stakeholders. This Programme judge, Justice Mokgoro, and from the guest speaker, of Action must assist us to take forward what we agreed Minister Dr Ofuho from South Sudan. All these speakers on at this Summit and most importantly, it must ensure spoke with passion on the need to work together to that we make new and decisive advances in our quest to create a caring and proud society. This was echoed by build an inclusive and a more cohesive society. leaders of political parties, civil society and business. Thank you all for participating today. See you all We are pleased and grateful that you came here to this tomorrow at 08:30 sharp.” historic place to contribute towards nation building. Your being here is proof of your passion for social cohesion. This concluded the deliberations of the first day of the Summit, Dr Bam thanked all the speakers and emphasised I would also like to stress that tomorrow; we need you that delegates would have an opportunity to participate in the to be in commissions and, as Minister Mashatile said, let commissions the following day. us come and discuss how best we can create a caring and proud South African society. In the Commissions, all of us will have an opportunity to discuss openly and freely the kind of society to we seek to build.

Deputy Minister Joe Phaahla and Director-General Sibusiso Xaba

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PROCEEDINGS OF DAY TWO: 5 JULY 2012

The Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile, welcomed Rapporteurs reported to the plenary as follows: delegates. He acknowledged that delegates had listened to 1. Economic inequalities: Prof. Yunus Ballim many inputs the day before. He explained that the second day 2. Spatial divisions: Dr Leonard Martin was structured to give a voice to all delegates to participate. 3. Social interaction, cooperation and solidarity: Ms Luli Callinicos The Minister acknowledged and thanked all the ministers 4. Prejudice and discrimination: The Rev. Frank and leaders from different sectors of society who would Chikane participate as panellists in the Commissions. The Rapporteurs 5. National identity and unity: Ms Barbara Masekela and Drafting Team would prepare a draft summit declaration, which, once adopted, would be presented to President Zuma The Commission reports are attached as an Annexure. for report back to Cabinet. Stakeholder participation in the report back to the President would be discussed as part of CLOSING PLENARY SESSION the way forward. CONFERENCE DECLARATION

The Minister noted the President’s comprehensive input and Professor Willem Esterhuyse read the Draft Declaration reminded the conference that all inputs were to be taken into of the Summit, with its introduction: account during Commission discussions. “The Summit reminds us of the symbolism of South Africa’s THE SUMMIT COMMISSIONS national coat of arms and the flag. It is both South African and African. It is both African and universal. It serves to invoke The Director-General explained that the Summit would South Africa’s distant past and the present. It pays homage to be divided into the following five commissions: the past and embraces a future where the indigenous belief systems are respected and embraced. Kliptown, Soweto, the 1. Economic inequalities site of the adoption of the historic Freedom Charter on the 2. Spatial divisions: Urban and rural development 4th and 5th of July 2012”. impact on social cohesion 3. Social interaction, cooperation and solidarity: The Declaration was adopted. Social security, rights and responsibilities 4. Prejudice and discrimination 5. National identity and unity: Arts, culture and symbols.

The Commissions were asked to address the following three issues, which would be incorporated into the Summit declaration:

1. Assessment of where we are as a nation 2. Identification of challenges 3. Proposals of actions to contribute to social inclusivity and nation building.

The Summit Plenary adjourned for Commissions and reconvened in the afternoon for reports from the Commissions on their deliberations.

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CLOSING REMARKS MINISTER OF ARTS AND CULTURE, MR PAUL MASHATILE

Minister Mashatile thanked President Zuma in building and to participate and be involved in continued absentia, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport from engagement on the challenges of nation building and South Sudan, Dr Cirino Hiteng Ofuho, and Ministers social cohesion. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Naledi Pandor, Jeff Radebe, Collins Chabane, Richard Baloyi, Gugile Nkwinti and The Minister committed government to continued Deputy Ministers Andries Nel and Enver Surty for their engagement on nation building and social cohesion, contribution to the Summit. including report-back meetings in provinces and in communities. He also confirmed the commitment in the The Minister gave a brief summary of key issues declaration to a follow-up summit in 2014, to coincide dealt with at the Summit, including the Speaker of with South Africa’s twentieth year of democracy. The Parliament’s presentation on activism by Parliament Minister encouraged delegates not to become tired of and the presentation of Judge Mokgoro underlining the talking, engaging and acting, and urged that talking and importance of building a society underpinned by social acting go hand in hand. The Minister reported that a date justice. The Minister expressed appreciation for the would be determined for a representative delegation inputs of political parties and commented that these to hand over the Summit Declaration and report to inputs would be taken seriously. He also thanked the President Zuma at the Union Buildings. representatives of labour, business and civil society for presentations on their crucial role in nation building and Finally, the Minister encouraged delegates to continue social cohesion. He thanked the Chief Whip, Dr Mathole with the legacy started in 1955, when the Congress Motshekga, the Chairperson, Ms Thandiwe Sanduza, of the People met in Kliptown to adopt the Freedom and Members of the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Charter. Culture, Premier Helen Zille, General Bantu Holomisa, dignitaries, religious leaders and traditional leaders for their participation. The Minister specifically thanked the media for their coverage of the proceedings of the Summit. Finally, the Minister thanked all delegates, the Deputy Minister for Arts and Culture, Dr Joe Phaahla, the Director-General, Mr Sibusiso Xaba, and the drafting team, including Dr Trish Hanekom and the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection for their roles in the success of the Summit. The Minister also expressed appreciation for the inputs of presenters and the support of universities, the private sector and all service providers.

In conclusion, the Minister expressed his view that the Summit had been a great success. He said that delegates had reconfirmed their commitment to building a non- racial, non-sexist, democratic society and had committed themselves to working together to build a caring and proud society. He emphasised that the building of social cohesion had to contribute to improving the quality of life and that partnerships in building a caring society should be established at all levels in the private and public sectors to realise this. Stakeholders were encouraged to mainstream issues of social cohesion, to advance nation

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ANNEXURES THE FOLLOWING ISSUES TO BE COMMISSION REPORTS INCLUDED IN A PROGRAMME OF ACTION: The Commissions received presentations and responses from panellists. There were vibrant and robust discussions and 1. There needs to be agreement on what “South contributions from participants in all the Commissions. The Africaness” means. detailed issues and written submissions of delegates will be addressed in the detailed programme of action and in further 2. There should be an increased focus on youth consultations in provinces and communities. The commission development in terms of education, training and reports summarise key issues of substantive consensus and economic opportunities. significant proposals made by the commissions. 3. Trust in government should be restored through REPORT OF THE COMMISSION ON action that eliminates inefficiencies, crime and ECONOMIC INEQUALITIES corruption.

Facilitator: Mr Xolani Gwala 4. There should be increased investment and Presenter: Minister Naledi Pandor focused development on rural development and Panellists: Dr Mirriam Altman agriculture, including addressing land ownership, Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa skills development and support for cooperatives. Mr Lumko Mtimde Mr Ravi Naidoo 5. Measures should be put in place to identify Rapporteurs: Prof. Yunus Balim successful initiatives at community level and to Mr Percy Mthimkhulu leverage and replicate these to scale through institutional partnerships. THE COMMISSION NOTED THE FOLLOWING: 6. Strategies should be developed for mobilizing skills, talents and abilities of South Africans, especially 1. The well-being of people is central. young people.

2. Social cohesion requires active participation by all 7. The paradigm, “it takes a village to raise a child” social institutions inclusive of government, labour, should be applied to reinforce and develop positive business and NGOs. values, including a sense of community and human solidarity. 3. Addressing economic inequalities is a necessary but not sufficient element in developing social 8. Multilingualism, the learning of each other’s’ cohesion. languages, must be promoted.

4. A clear economic policy framework is a requirement 9. Indigenous knowledge systems must be promoted. for nation building and social cohesion.

5. The capacity of the state to turn policy into practice needs to be increased.

6. There is a need for strong, reliable and independent monitoring structures on performance and accountability of government, since what we have now is not working adequately.

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REPORT OF THE COMMISSION ON gives effect to the constitutional principle of a just SPATIAL DIVISIONS and equitable approach to this matter.

Facilitator: Mr Ashraf Garda 6. The commission also heard inputs from Presenter: MEC Nandi Mayathula-Khoza representatives of the Khoi-Khoi people, urging Panellists: Mr Neville Chainee acknowledgement of the particularity of the Mr Somadoda Fikeni historical injustice with regard to this important Prof. Alan Mabin section of our population, and the need in our Adv. Sipho Pityana national deliberations about land, the Constitution Rapporteurs: Dr Leonard Martin and other matters to embrace full inclusivity. Ms Febe Potgieter 7. The commission heard of community experiences, THE COMMISSION NOTED AS where land claims were lodged and 15 years later FOLLOWS: there were still delays and inadequate responses from authorities and feedback to communities, 1. The challenges of land and spatial divisions we face leading to great frustration. in 2012 have their roots in the legacy of colonial dispossession, and were entrenched by subsequent 8. Although we have made progress over the last 18 apartheid policies of segregation and deliberate years towards meeting basic needs and addressing underdevelopment. the social backlogs, there are critical policy gaps. These include the following: 2. These legacies characterise the geographical and • An inclusive approach to housing, where the spatial realities which, two decades after our state, through RDP houses, addresses the transition to democracy, persist and continue to poorest section, and the banks those earning define South Africa. above R10 000 a month, but the missing middle which covers the vast majority are 3. The commission agreed these are especially not catered for in our policy. manifested as persistent landlessness, lack of • The challenges of land usage, absentee access to land and difficulties to access finance agricultural and mining land, lack of land close for land redress. This has led to the persistence of to place of economic activities, selling of land rural exclusion and marginalisation, with regard to by local government to private developers economic and social activity and other amenities and general activities of land grabs. and infrastructure. • The urgent need for a land audit, in order to understand the nature of the imbalances 4. In addition, and especially after 1994, we have today, and therefore the interventions that seen continuous and accelerated rural to urban are targeted. migration, as a result of the social and economic problems afflicting rural communities. 9. The commission acknowledged that among the challenges we face in addressing this matter is 5. Emerging differences in our understanding and finding the balance between black aspirations approaches to section 25 of the Constitution, and and white fears and that this must be addressed whether it provides an enabling clause to address through dialogue. We must therefore include the historical injustice with regard to land. The land owners in the discourse. We also recognised commission agreed that the ‘willing seller, willing the need for a mind-shift that equates successful buyer’, was not a principle of the Constitution, agriculture with white farmers and reduces black but instead was introduced as an approach. It also farming activity to subsistence farming. If we want agreed that it had serious limitations and failed to to have successful agrarian reform, we must ensure address the urgencies of this historical legacy. There that we talk about a truly inclusive approach to is therefore a need for a legislative framework that agricultural development and food security.

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10. We must move beyond the pessimism and cynicism 2. The commission urged that in order to build a that often characterises our public discourse, and South Africa that belonged to all, we needed an embrace the can-do attitude that gave rise to our honest, robust, yet respectful and inclusive dialogue democratic transition of 1994. about our past and on all the critical challenges facing us today. 11. The commission agreed that Government must ensure that communities and the general populace 3. The motto “in the midst of diversity there must have information, are educated and have clarity be unity” is important, and therefore government about its programmes, in order to facilitate people’s must play a role in encouraging national dialogue participation in their own development and ensure and consensus on these challenges and the role of that they can give feedback on the effectiveness each sector in our society to enable us to reach and impact of such programmes. these goals in the shortest possible time. We must celebrate our multiple identities, but we must also 12. The importance of integrated planning, across all celebrate and contribute towards building our departments and spheres of government was raised South African identity. as a critical aspect of government programmes that need to be reviewed and strengthened. In this regard, the commission urged the necessity for clarifying the roles of local government and traditional leadership in the allocation and usage of land, so that we are able to address the imperatives of food security, agrarian reform and land usage.

THE FOLLOWING ISSUES TO BE INCLUDED IN A PROGRAMME OF ACTION

1. The commission recognised that although land related to historical injustice, it was also a critical resource for economic prosperity. Therefore, we has to pay more attention to the following: • An urgent and on-going national dialogue on the issues of land as set out above, and what we need to do over the next decades to deal decisively with this legacy. • Speed up the land restitution process, and facilitate corrections with regard to the 1913 cut-off point that excludes particularly the Khoi and San communities, as well as those that were unable to meet the 2008 deadline. • Capacitating cooperatives, so that they are able to contribute to agricultural productivity and food security. • Gestures from the white community as a show of goodwill through contributing their skills and experience, including land. • Drawing on indigenous and experiential knowledge of our people, sharing information and resources.

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REPORT OF THE COMMISSION THE FOLLOWING ISSUES TO BE ON SOCIAL INTERACTION, INCLUDED IN A PROGRAMME OF COOPERATION AND SOLIDARITY ACTION

Facilitator: Mr Sandile Memela 1. The programme of action should give effect to Presenter: Deputy Minister Mohamed Enver Surty the values enshrined in the Constitution and Panellists: Dr Alan Boesak incorporate measures to heal the nation and forge Dr Mathole Motshekga solidarity through conversations and dialogue Dr Faizel Randera between different racial and interest groups. Rapporteurs: Prof. Kwandile Nkondo Ms Luli Callinicos 2. Young people should be taught the values of the constitution and this should be part of the school THE COMMISSION NOTED AS curriculum. FOLLOWS: 3. The concept of Ubuntu is embedded in African 1. The legacy of colonialism and apartheid is one that philosophy and should be adopted as a national will not end soon and South Africa is currently one ethic to create a socially inclusive society, with of the most unequal societies in the world. consideration of the month of July being declared “Ubuntu Month”. 2. Women over the years have been those most affected by the system of apartheid and are still 4. Special attention should be given to the integration affected within the new dispensation by racial and of minority groups such as the Khoi-San. gender discrimination. 5. Special attention should be given to the integration 3. The Khoi-San community, and other minority of economically disadvantaged groups into the groups, have still not been effectively integrated mainstream economy. into South African society. 6. The programme of action should deepen the 4. The South African Constitution is an important social consciousness of the South African citizenry, instrument for the protection of the rights of especially the previously disadvantaged, with regard citizens. to understanding their rights as free citizens with responsibilities. 5. Although there have been achievements since 1994, programmes of service delivery need to 7. Programmes to speed up service delivery, including be sped up to achieve social cooperation, and land reform, and to fight crime and corruption solidarity amongst the South African citizenry. are prerequisites for nation building and social cohesion. 6. Challenges of transformation and building unity and reconciliation amongst different racial groups remain and social cohesion requires adherence to values of human compassion and social solidarity and there should be no xenophobia, prejudice or ethnicity.

7. There is evidence of narrow nationalism emerging within the country, which is limiting and slowing down the process of social interaction.

8. Measures are needed to effectively manage crime and fight corruption.

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REPORT OF THE COMMISSION ON and debate are needed to understand what PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION prevents society from addressing the problems facing the country. Facilitator: Ms Nikiwe Bikitsha Presenter: Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma 7. The commission observed that there were Panellists: Mr Neeshan Balton many obstacles to achieving the constitutionally Dr Kometi enshrined economic and social rights and that The Reverend Gift Moerane to achieve equality and inclusion required human Dr Faizel Randera magnanimity, big-heartedness and a leap of faith in Rapporteurs: The Reverend Frank Chikane order to overcome the past. Prof. Andries Oliphant THE FOLLOWING ISSUES TO BE THE COMMISSION NOTED THE INCLUDED IN A PROGRAMME OF FOLLOWING: ACTION

1. The biggest challenge is to unite the population 1. To achieve greater social inclusion there around a common programme against racism, should be country-wide and community-based tribalism, sexism and xenophobia. Social cohesion campaigns, supported by materials and manuals, and nation building cannot be legislated and on social justice and action against prejudice and imposed. It must be internalized by everyone as discrimination. agents of change to eradicate inequality, prejudice and discrimination in creating a better life for all. 2. Discriminatory statements should be censured, including xenophobic statements such as reference 2. Racism is not unique to South Africa, as was to small businesses in townships being owned evident at the World Conference on Racism by Pakistanis, as pronounced on day one of the hosted by South Africa in 2001, and four forms Summit. of discrimination – racism, tribalism, sexism and xenophobia – are rooted in the fundamental denial 3. The National Action Plan to Combat Racism of the humanity of others. adopted at the World Conference on Racism should be implemented. 3. Racist attitudes continue in sections of the South African population, having been embedded for so 4. A National Training Programme for Educators to long in apartheid law, in education, in social life and educate learners on racism, sexism, tribalism and in the hearts and minds of whites. xenophobia should be designed and implemented.

4. The struggle to achieve a non-racial society is 5. The continued use of racist terminology in the embedded in the history of South Africa, when classification of people and in public communication deep bonds were forged between blacks and should be abolished. whites in the face of divisions. The constitutional 6. Government should enter into a social contract founding of South Africa as a non-racial and non- with society to combat racism, tribalism, sexism sexist society is therefore a legacy to build on and xenophobia, including the accelerated redress today and in the future. of injustices of the past.

5. The Commission recalled the observation of the 7. Special attention should be given to the rights of Reverend Beyers Naude that there can be no the Khoi-San, including land rights. healing without reconciliation; no reconciliation without justice; and no justice without restitution. 8. Special attention should be given to the rights of the disabled to ensure their full access to public 6. While South Africa has excellent policies, dialogue services and amenities.

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9. Consideration should be given to Freedom Day in THE FOLLOWING ISSUES TO BE 2014, being an opportunity for white people who INCLUDED IN A PROGRAMME OF wish to apologise for past injustices to do so in ACTION public. 1. The state, including all departments in all spheres 10. A shared South African identity should be of government, must lead the process, involving promoted. society at large, of building unity amongst all South Africans and re-affirming the values enshrined in the constitution to build a non-racial, non-sexist --- South Africa.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSION ON 2. The programme of action should provide for NATIONAL IDENTITY AND UNITY discussion forums at local government level for dialogue and the development of understanding Facilitator: Ms Masechaba Moshoeshoe and reconciliation to contribute to nation building Presenter: Minister Collins Chabane and social cohesion. Panellists: Mr Miller Matola Prof. Muxe Nkondo 3. Mechanisms should be found and implemented to Ms Thandiswa Sanduza involve all South African racial groups in celebrating Rapporteurs: Ms Barbara Masekela the national days of the country. Mr Leslie Dikeni 4. Special attention should be given to involving THE COMMISSION NOTED AS religious communities in the process of FOLLOWS: reconciliation and nation building.

1. The legacy of colonialism and racism are obstacles 5. Plans for transforming the South African economy to social inclusion, nation building and the should include specific objectives of changing the development of a national identity, hence the need current racial inequalities. for all South Africans to continue striving against this legacy and the continuing racism. 6. The curriculum at schools should include learning material that will contribute to the process of 2. The constitutional founding of South Africa as a nation building. non-racial and non-sexist society is a legacy to build on today and in the future. 7. Arts, culture and sport are important vehicles which must be used to build unity and a socially 3. The challenge is to rally all South Africans from cohesive society. all walks of life behind the values and ideals of the constitution. 8. Mechanisms should be put in place to assess and measure progress in nation building and social cohesion. 4. The process of nation building is not a once-off process, but rather an on-going social process.

5. Policies at local, provincial and national level must contribute to the process of nation building and social cohesion.

6. All political parties should be involved and engaged in the process of nation building.

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ANNEXURE segregation and its attendant apartheid doctrine. But PRESENTATIONS what is most important about the Freedom Charter, is that it is the very document that forms the basis of the Constitution that we have today. In essence, the values Opening and Welcome – MEC Lebogang that our predecessors aspired to and adopted at the end Maile on behalf of the Premier of Gauteng, Ms of their meeting here in Kliptown were truly reflective of Nomvula Mokonyane the path that South Africa needed to take for it to be the true democracy that it is today. The Honourable President, Mr Jacob Zuma, Honourable Government Ministers here today, Today South Africa is a democracy anchored by a Members of the Executive of the Gauteng Provincial solid Constitution which is regarded by many people Government, in the world as the best Constitution because of its Religious leaders, comprehensive protection of the rights of all people. Leaders of different sectors of our society, All dignitaries present, When you think about the kind of society that we need Distinguished guests, to build in this country, delegates to this important Ladies and Gentlemen, Summit should be guided by the values expressed in the Freedom Charter and the Constitution which remind Mr President, on behalf of the Gauteng Provincial us that South Africa belongs to all of us, united in our Government, let me take this opportunity to welcome diversity. you and all the delegates attending this important gathering. Fellow South Africans, you must use this as an opportunity to reflect on the progress that our country has made We hope that after this crucial Summit, South Africa will in relation to issues of nation building since democracy be presented with a comprehensive plan on how we, as was ushered in in 1994. While we acknowledge our citizens, should take our country forward and complete indisputable successes and progress, we should not be the quest for a united, progressive and non-racial society afraid to identify weaknesses, highlight our concerns and in which all people would respect and love one another. express our aspirations for the future. We believe that this event, which brings together And, like the delegates who were there when the Government, civil society, religious groups, and business Freedom Charter was adopted, we should never be leaders will be able to provide us with the answers on afraid to express our thoughts on what we think should how people in our society can live up to the theme of be part of the values that would help us strengthen our this Summit by “working together to create a caring and democracy and build a progressive country that our proud society”. children would be proud of. Finding answers to the questions of building social Honourable delegates, as you may all know, on 18 July cohesion in our country should not be a difficult thing people across the country will be marking the 94th given that we have already laid a solid base that makes it birthday of South Africa’s first democratically elected possible for us to take well-considered decisions. President, Nelson Mandela. His life and conduct have become the light of hope for many in the world because The fact that the Summit is taking place in Kliptown of his dedication and commitment to ending apartheid should inspire us all because it was also in this very and bringing democracy and freedom to our country. He place where our elders convened the Congress of the is the embodiment of non-racialism and equality that we People, an important meeting in 1955 that brought South should all emulate in our daily lives. Africans of all backgrounds and races together in order for them to deliberate on the kind of South Africa that The former President’s life and convictions should teach they would like to live in. all of us that we should always be selfless, stand for the truth and seek to do for our country everything that will The Freedom Charter was adopted and became the benefit all people and future generations. guiding compass in the liberation struggle against racial

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All of us here have the power to transform our country Similarly, value judgements, which were the order of the and make imprints that will not be erased. This begins day in the not too distant past and which exist even today, with our taking those small steps to reach out to each can also be avoided. Therefore, it is very important for other, respect each other and work together to build a people to learn to understand the cultural practices of united country free of prejudice and injustice. different communities.

In essence, the greatest birthday gift that this gathering Among other responsibilities, as custodians of cultures, can give Madiba is the crafting, delivery and commitment customs, values and traditions, we work in partnership to a covenant that will see all South Africans from all with various entities such as PanSALB, where the walks of life living together as one nation, loyal and promotion of languages is emphasised, hence we believe patriotic to the flag. that language is more than just a means of communication, it is the essence of our being, the very core of our soul Mr President, may I also take this opportunity to urge as African people, the medium of our memories, the delegates to view Mandela Month as an inspiration to use link between space and time, the basis of our dreams. this Summit as the space to champion and advocate in In other words, when you erase a people’s language, you one voice the construction of nationhood in a prosperous erase their memory. country in which racism, poverty, unemployment and inequalities live only in the museum of the mind - the Bearing in mind that different practices and beliefs can memory. be attributed to the cultural and geographic environment from whence they have sprouted, the issues of a bill of Turning the tide is in our hands and converting the rights and ‘Ubuntu’ should be taken into cognisance, and dreams and aspirations of our people into reality is also that is the reason why we work in partnership with among within our reach. Let us march and work in unison. others, the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM), the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), the Thank you. Commission for the Promotion of the Rights of Cultural Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL), the National --- Heritage Council (NHC), to mention a few, and we have produced good results, in an attempt to inculcate a spirit National House of Traditional Leaders – of ‘Ubuntu’ within families, communities, workplaces and Kgosi Phopolo Pontsho Maubane life in general. Arts and Culture may play ‘The role of the NHTL in building a socially In conclusion, we need to inclusive society’ emphasize the importance a healing role through of culture in an endeavour promoting reconciliation Programme Director; and all protocol observed, to promote social cohesion. This will assist in healing We are grateful to the Department of Arts and Culture the wounds of the past and for affording us an opportunity to participate as the will even contribute towards nation building. The White National House of Traditional Leaders in this historic Paper on Arts, Culture and Heritage has this to say, “Arts Summit. Indeed a conference of this nature refreshes our and Culture may play a healing role through promoting thinking and understanding of our ever-evolving society. reconciliation. Our approach to culture is premised on international standards in which culture is understood as Based on our motto which says ‘Unity in Diversity’, an important component of national life, which enhances we can cite the fact that South Africa has a unique freedom. Culture should not be used as a mechanism of composition of cultural groups each one of them with its exclusion, a barrier between people, nor should cultural own distinctive cultural identity, and together they form practices be reduced to ethnic or religious chauvinism.’’ part of a powerful and colourful tapestry, demonstrating how different communities can co-exist in a panoramic With these few words, allow me to pause and wish South African Society. In this way, ethno-centricity in you all the best in what you seek to achieve during the the treatment of any cultural complex can be avoided. Summit on social cohesion and beyond.

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African National Congress – Mr Gwede country cannot be disputed. That we continue to find Mantashe ways to build our nation and develop social cohesion ‘The role of political parties in building a through our plans of action, policies and frameworks socially inclusive society’ is equally indisputable.

It is fitting and appropriate that we convene this National When we attained the right to vote and chose freedom, Summit on Social Cohesion in Kliptown, Soweto, and in we all succumbed to the euphoria of the moment. We the month in which we celebrate the legacy of our chief believed then, and rightly so, that if we could overthrow architect for peace and reconciliation, uTata Nelson the evil system that was apartheid, we could build a truly Mandela. non-racial, non-sexist and prosperous society. It felt at that point that nothing was impossible. When people speak of South Africa’s road to democracy and the struggle to liberate the majority of its people, the Our first test in coming together as a nation, united in words they choose to use to describe us are “a miracle our diversity was to ensure that the Constitution of nation”, the “rainbow people”, achieving a “negotiated our land is legitimate, credible and accepted by all South revolution” and they regard our transition from apartheid Africans. to democracy “one of the greatest political achievements of this century”. We are all these things and more. But we To this extent, the process of drafting the Constitution are not perfect. involved many South Africans in the largest public participation programme ever carried out in South Africa. The impact of years of separate development and the After nearly two years of intensive consultations, political legalized discrimination against the majority of South parties represented in the Constitutional Assembly Africans based on race, have created enormous and deep negotiated the formulations contained in the text of the wounds which cannot be undone in a mere 18 years. The Constitution, which represents an integration of ideas scars have created untold suffering which we, as a nation, from ordinary citizens, civil society and political parties will spend many years and perhaps generations, trying to represented inside and outside of the Constitutional recover from. Assembly. Thus our Constitution represents the collective wisdom of the South African people arrived South Africa’s long and often troubled road to nation at by general agreement. It is no wonder that apart building and social cohesion has been difficult yet from being lauded around the globe as one of the most necessary, painful yet hopeful and a never-ending work progressive constitutions ever written, it also serves as in progress. The struggle for common citizenship, the an inspiration to those countries which seek to emulate striving to inculcate common values and enhance respect our inclusive process of democracy. for the diversity which exists amongst all our people has required remarkable wisdom and clarity of thought Our second major milestone in attempting to heal the by visionary leaders who first drafted the African Bill nation and set us on our path to reconciliation and nation of Rights of the African National Congress in 1923 and building was the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. later the African Claims Bill of Rights of 1943, calling for, amongst others, the freedom of movement; the right to Our beloved icon, Nelson Mandela, speaking at the Special equality, including gender equality, freedom of expression, Debate on the Report of the Truth and Reconciliation freedom of economic activity, freedom of religion, Commission had this to say: “It would be well to the right to language and culture and the right to self- underline at the outset that reconciliation touches upon determination. virtually every facet of our life as a nation. The TRC is an important component in that process, and its work These provisions and their consolidation provided is a critical milestone in a journey that has just started. the basis for the ANC’s 1955 Freedom Charter We say this advisedly, for South Africans cannot abdicate which addressed fundamental human rights and their responsibility for reconciliation by shifting it to the which eventually found expression and realization TRC, or gloating at its perceived weaknesses. Nor can in South Africa’s widely lauded Constitution and Bill the task of reconciliation be confined to narrow legalese. of Rights. That the ANC pioneered and forged the As we reached out across the divisions of centuries to way ahead to the adoption of a Bill of Rights for the establish democracy, we need now to work together in

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all our diversity, including the diversity of our experience in particular from decent education and health and recollection of our history, to overcome the divisions care, housing, jobs and from places of worship.” themselves and eradicate their consequences” (25 Feb • Class divisions which parallel racial classification 1999). • Social fragmentation • Language The option in South Africa to embark upon the TRC • Exclusion and the granting of amnesty to the perpetrators was • Gender and sex more to advance reconciliation and reconstruction than • Unemployment to exact any kind of retributive justice. The underlying • Unequal experience of the law thinking was that if we spoke about our suffering, if it • Incomplete healing process. was acknowledged and shared with the people of South Africa, we could start on a journey of healing. As Archbishop Tutu so succinctly declared: “For unless houses replace the hovels and shacks in which most As Chairperson of the TRC, Archbishop Desmond Tutu blacks live, unless blacks gain access to clean water, stated: “Reconciliation is liable to be a long-drawn-out electricity, affordable health care, decent education, good process with ups and downs, not something accomplished jobs, and a safe environment - things which the vast overnight and certainly not by a commission, however majority of whites have taken for granted for so long - we effective. Reconciliation is going to have to be the can just as well kiss reconciliation goodbye.” concern of every South African. It has to be a national project to which all earnestly strive to make their The NPC report correctly states that identity plays particular contribution by learning the language and a key role in shaping the national values. It argues that culture of others; by being willing to make amends by “South Africa has chosen not to create a melting pot, but refusing to deal in stereotypes by making racial or other rather a potjie to celebrate diversity. Yet a binding factor jokes that ridicule a particular group; by contributing is required. What binds us? South Africans are bound by to a culture of respect for human rights and seeking to a shared geographic space, a common modern history enhance tolerance with zero tolerance for intolerance; (however differently experienced), and a Constitution by working for a more inclusive society where most, if with four core values which are non-racism, non-sexism, not all, can feel they belong.” social solidarity and democracy.”

However, in South Africa today, the process of social We experienced this during our hosting of Unity in Diversity cohesion, nation building and reconciliation remains the FIFA World Cup in 2010. Our deep sense under threat from the very real disparities between rich of patriotism and pride in all things South and poor, black and white, women and men, rural and African was clear for all to see. We wore urban. These widening gaps between the haves and have- the Bafana Bafana shirts with pride, we flew our flags nots continue to undermine our reconciliation efforts everywhere (on our cars, from our roofs and we even and pose a great threat to nation building. wrapped ourselves in them) and we sang our national anthem with pride. The rugby events in Soweto were The National Planning Commission (NPC) Report has lauded for bringing about racial harmony and we did identified many fault lines which are triggers to derailing indeed demonstrate our “unity in diversity”. unity and stability in the country. They have identified the following “fault lines”: However, it seemed that the euphoria which prevailed and the patriotism that went with the success of the event, • The pervasive, divisive effects of institutionalized has taken a knock. Current global economic turmoil, racism whereby “hundreds if not thousands of laws corruption which is slowing down service delivery, to separate people, to banish them far from their poverty and unemployment have all had polarizing effects. places of birth, to move people and to subjugate them, and to implement these laws, was built on As Zayd Minty suggests,“ Even as scientists argue that sophisticated institutional machinery used to race does not exist beyond a societal construct, South deprive black people in general and African people Africans continue to talk about Indians, Coloureds, whites

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and blacks - without recognizing the divides that deepen to as historical redress, so that we do not unintentionally as we use these terms. Our debates and terminologies perpetuate racial identities. Here, he says, we are not are racialised in exactly the same mould as our apartheid dealing with a minority syndrome. Black South Africans, past.” those who were oppressed and exploited in the previous dispensation on the basis of so-called skin colour, We have seen the issue of race; class and identity play constitute the majority of the population of South Africa. itself out in the media, lately and with frequency, when They have the civic power to insist on new ways of allegations were made about the City of Cape Town sharing whatever revenue the state can raise from the being racist, followed by responses to those allegations productive activities of all the citizens of the country by political leaders, political analysts and ordinary citizens. and, in theory, through their control of parliamentary Then the DA youth poster which generated heated power, they can reshape the way in which we identify discussions about race; the Western Cape Premier’s ourselves, even if this process takes generations rather “refugee” comments about Eastern Cape scholars than decades. The basic issue that we must grapple with and her “professional black” comment in repartee is the optimal relationship between our national (South with a musician and more recently, the Spear painting, African) identity and all manner of sub-national identities. an offensive and degrading depiction of the country’s President. Clearly, none of these are helpful in assisting us Our “South Africaness” which we celebrate through our to build social cohesion. Constitution is the glue which contributes to and binds social cohesion and nation building and therefore is an There is a genuine victimhood felt by most white important pillar in our unity in diversity. South Africans that policies of affirmative action and Black Economic Empowerment discriminate against Equally, the question of interfaith and the role it plays them and they are often termed “reverse racism”. in nation building and social cohesion cannot be over- This is an extremely simplistic term which negates the emphasised. President Zuma’s call for the religious dehumanizing effects of decades of apartheid on the community to partner with Government to establish a majority of the people in this country. Under apartheid, cohesive and caring society has resulted in the formation blacks were given an inferior education and on the whole and launch of the National Inter-Faith Council of South restricted to much worse jobs. The Employment Equity Africa. As its collective mission, the National Inter-faith Act in 1998 tried to make the workforce “more broadly Council of SA (NICSA) will “help fulfil the South African representative of our people” across the board. But dream of unity in diversity” working to build social more than a decade later, whites still hold three-quarters cohesion, working towards eradicating poverty and of senior jobs in private business whereas blacks have social ills and building partnerships with communities, 12%, the exact reverse of their share in the working Parliament, Government, NGOs and the business sector.” population. Among the 295 companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), blacks account for The recent centenary celebrations of the ANC just 4% of chief executive officers. demonstrated this collective inter-cultural approach and sets out a good formula for unity in diversity and So clearly, when we trivialize the effects apartheid had on cooperation amongst cultural groups. the majority of the people by claiming “reverse racism”, As I conclude, let me leave you with the words of our we deny non-white people not only the suffering they icon, Nelson Mandela: endured under apartheid which burdens them today, but also the privileges that many whites received and whose “As we take stock of our accomplishments and shortcomings effects continue to shield them from the harsh realities. we should not, by a slightest of chance lose sight of our once However, we have the ability to engage as a nation on ambitious dream for education, total economic participation, these issues, without being defensive, without ego, democracy and freedom for all. The struggle for democracy without politicking and posturing. All it requires of us is has never been a matter pursued by one race, class, religious to be open, empathetic and humble and to listen without community or gender among South Africans. …The challenge prejudice. is to foster a nation in which all people, irrespective of race, colour, sex, religion or creed, can assert social cohesion fully” Neville Alexander believes that we should rethink the (2008). ways in which we are trying to bring about what we refer

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Democratic Alliance – Premier Helen It is an integral component of what we in the DA call the Zille open opportunity society for all. When individuals feel empowered and families are functional and communities ‘The role of political parties in building a socially are connected, there is less crime, substance abuse, child inclusive society’ abuse, unemployment and, ultimately, less poverty. And so society coheres. There are no short cuts to social cohesion In a cohesive society, children grow up understanding that This is an extract of the speech delivered by Helen Zille you become free by using your opportunities. People are on 4 July 2012 at the National Social Cohesion Summit in safe, sheltered and nourished. And they recognise that Kliptown, Soweto. learning opens the door to prosperity.

I am pleased to be addressing the National Social Social cohesion isn’t something that the state can Cohesion Summit, the theme of which is ‘creating a impose on society. No government can, by itself, ‘create’ caring and proud society’; because I believe that we need a cohesive society, or foist a common culture upon a more care and compassion in our society. passive populace.

And we need to take more pride in discharging our In cohesive societies, progress is achieved Better Together responsibilities, whether as members of government or through partnerships between government, as private citizens. citizens, civil society and business. Each has a role and specific responsibilities. That is why the What does this mean? Western Cape Government has adopted the slogan “Better Together” to capture and convey its message to It means a government that cares passionately whether the people of the Western Cape. learners get their textbooks on time. Because if we don’t equip our children with the education and skills they Social cohesion also means balancing rights with need to take advantage of their opportunities, we will responsibilities. Individuals, communities, and never have a cohesive society. governments must all take responsibility. So must parents. This is critical. Our society is deeply damaged because of It means citizens who care about using their opportunities absent fathers and fathers who won’t take responsibility in life, and who take responsibility for using them, for their offspring. because every citizen is an active partner in his or her own development and that of the country. If parental – and especially paternal – responsibility does not become engrained in South Africa’s national culture, Opportunity only makes a difference if you use it. then social cohesion will remain a pipe-dream. And there can be no nation building without active, responsible citizens using their opportunities for the Finally, social cohesion requires us to choose policies benefit of the country. that create opportunity, lessen dependency and reward responsibility. And in making and implementing those In the Western Cape, the DA government has prioritised policies, of course we must acknowledge and understand social inclusion as one of our main provincial strategic the terrible legacy of the past that has left the majority objectives, because inclusive societies are cohesive of South Africans socially excluded. But the only way societies. we are going to achieve an inclusive society and social cohesion is by extending opportunities and providing And we have learnt a few lessons. First, there are no support – mainly through education and training – to short cuts to social cohesion. individuals who must then use those opportunities through hard work and commitment. Social cohesion is about people living together harmoniously, feeling a sense of belonging, and participating in the civic and That is the real path to creating a caring and proud social life of their communities. society and a successful South Africa in which everyone can live a life they value.

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Inkatha Freedom Party – The There certainly is a breakdown between Government Honourable Mr Ben Skosana, and the citizenry. As much as a poor understanding of on behalf of Prince Mangosuthu the responsibilities of citizenship come into play in the Buthelezi many violent service delivery protests that have erupted across our country, we must accept that the breakdown ‘The role of political parties in building a socially between this Government and its people, and the specific inclusive society’ failings of Government, have created this powder keg.

The IFP appreciates the opportunity to participate in this One thinks of the failure to replace a culture of important Summit. As a political party with 37 years of lawlessness, ungovernability, indiscipline and lack of experience in bringing people together across all divides, respect for authority with the absolute rule of law. we have a vital contribution to make when discussing social cohesion. In the spirit of cohesion, the IFP will refrain from pointing out the origin of the culture of lawlessness. Rather than We have considered the discussion document prepared saying, “We told you so”, let us point to a way forward by the Department of Arts and Culture, and adopted by that we know can work. The IFP has vast experience in Cabinet, titled “Diverse People Unite: Working Together governance. But more than that, we have experience in to Create a Caring and Proud Society”. In this brief mobilising diverse people under a common cause, under presentation, we offer the IFP’s perspective. circumstances of widespread poverty, limited resources, social unrest and political antagonism. It is abundantly clear, as the discussion document During the nineteen years the IFP led the erstwhile indicates that South Africa has not achieved social KwaZulu Government, we were faced with the challenge cohesion in the eighteen years of democracy since 1994. of creating social cohesion in adverse circumstances. We Social cohesion was not a natural by-product of political took many initiatives, and many were successful. But let enfranchisement. As the IFP often pointed out, we had us focus on just two. created a new South Africa, but we had yet to create the new South Africans. The first was the implementation of good citizenship classes at primary school level. In the language of the The IFP is pleased to note Government’s recognition discussion document, we sought to educate young of the fact that, in the absence of responsive action, the people “regarding their responsibilities to each other in reality of social fragmentation will continue. We have everyday situations.” always been concerned about the narrative created by irresponsible election promises. The fact that today South Africa has nurses who do not nurse and teachers who do not teach highlights the Particularly as we approached the 1994 elections, many basic misunderstanding of good citizenship prevalent in of our people, who lacked experience and understanding our society. Indeed, even the poor levels of customer as fully enfranchised citizens, took the promise of jobs service in practically every sphere of our service industry and houses to mean that these would fall from the points to a poor grasp of the responsibilities of active, benevolent hand of a democratically elected government, participatory citizenship. regardless of economic realities and the tremendous task of redistribution and growth that lay ahead. The IFP agrees that social cohesion requires empowered citizenship, fair citizenship and inclusive citizenship. Many of our people thought their vote would bring But we believe that empowered citizenship begins in an immediate change in their circumstances. But, as classrooms, not merely in education campaigns that are the discussion document points out, in our context costly and have limited reach. of economic underperformance, challenges such as unemployment and healthcare have sharply deteriorated. In KwaZulu we saw clear and positive results from It must be said that economic underperformance is not implementing good citizenship as part of the school the only culprit, for corruption and a lack of political will curriculum. Evidence of long-term success is the fact have played a substantial role. that during the last eighteen years of democracy, IFP-led

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municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal have not experienced disempowering traditional leadership from fulfilling its the violent service delivery protests that have plagued vital role in rural development. other municipalities. We are also concerned about the social impact of The second initiative the IFP took to create social imminent legislation dealing with Black Economic cohesion was necessitated by the vastly inadequate Empowerment and Employment Equity, which is resources allocated to governance in KwaZulu. The tantamount to mandatory legal discrimination. correlation here is the continual underfunding of local Astonishingly, the discussion document makes fast- government, which severely limits what municipalities tracking BEE a high priority, while admitting that most are able to do for their communities, particularly in rural BEE deals do not empower workers or communities in and impoverished areas. In KwaZulu, we instituted the any meaningful way. If we are going in the wrong direction, Rand-for-Rand partnership with communities, whereby running faster will not help. government matched funding raised by communities to build houses, schools, clinics and other infrastructure. There is no hiding the fact that the race issue is South Africa’s national question. There are citizens who were Let me be clear. The IFP is not advocating raising taxes as born into a democratic South Africa, who will vote for a means to coerce citizens into contributing more. Our the first time in 2014, who will still be denied employment middle class is already subjected to some of the highest and opportunities for advancement based on the colour personal and corporate tax burdens in the world as well of their skin. This is a thorny issue, but it has real impact on as indirect forms of taxation which, by their nature, are our efforts to create inclusive citizenship, fair citizenship regressive and unjust. The middle class is shrinking out of and empowered citizens. existence, reducing the economic space into which the poor aspire to graduate. Our goal, after all, is to create a narrative South Africans are based on fact that says, “South Africans What the IFP advocates is moving our national psyche are socially diverse, yet common in their socially diverse, away from a welfare mentality and an entitlement citizenship.” mentality, towards the empowering culture of self-help yet common in and self-reliance. We want citizens to experience a sense The definition of nation building in the their citizenship of shared ownership, a sense of being part of the solution. discussion document is backward looking, This creates inclusive citizenship, where citizens become seeking only to redress the past, rather active participants in identifying challenges, designing than identifying a shared future goal. solutions and working towards an agreed outcome. There are other statements in the document that give The manifestations of social fragmentation, such as South Africa reason for concern. One is the admission racism, xenophobia, violence against women and children, that slow economic growth is a consequence of our and high levels of crime, cannot be solved through Government’s economic policies. Another is that 25% of political enfranchisement. Clearly there is a need for our adult population remains illiterate. There is a sharp social and economic reform. Yet the discussion document decline in secondary school enrolment. Reported crime postulates that economic development cannot create has increased. Life expectancy has decreased. And among social cohesion. the many challenges to social cohesion, all but one rank high. Here the IFP must sound a note of warning. There is a vast difference between creating a semblance of national unity, There is one further point the IFP must raise. The and creating true inclusivity. Holding a national Summit discussion document expresses a flawed premise. If we on social cohesion is pointless if Government is, at the move from this premise, we are likely to stumble on the same time, determined to pursue policies that exclude or path ahead. The premise is that our “society has overcome disempower some segments of our population. the deep political schisms of the past”. By implication, we have achieved political reconciliation. Unfortunately, that We are concerned about Government’s systematic is not the case. process of dismantling traditional social structures, by

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There is an outstanding agenda of reconciliation between Looking back, we must deliberately measure our progress the ruling Party and the IFP which must be finalised, for since 1994, because true freedom is not a once-off event, the sake of national unity. As the ANC celebrates its but an ongoing process. centenary, political violence is being commemorated; through a biased lens and in the absence of a truthful At the moment anger, resentment, racism and ethnicity account of the People’s War. simmer beneath the supposed Rainbow Nation. Corruption, poor service delivery and the growing There are still 400 leaders and office bearers of the levels of poverty, unemployment and inequality make IFP whose assassination goes unexamined. There are the dream of a cohesive society unattainable. This bleak 20 000 victims of political violence whose memory picture leaves many South Africans, particularly the poor, suggests that the process of reconciliation should not disillusioned. be swept off the table. And there are still ANC leaders at national level who perpetuate divisive propaganda against the IFP, bringing tribalism into our national In despair, our people tend to express this disillusionment discourse. by resorting to violence and lawlessness when they protest, even if they have a legitimate reason to air The role of the IFP in building a socially inclusive society their grievances. These challenges stand in the way of is to represent the voice of South Africans who face the successfully building a cohesive nation along the lines of manifestations of social fragmentation every day, and feel this Summit’s theme of “...creating a caring and proud increasingly disempowered. society.”

--- Purpose of the summit

United Democratic Movement – The We must emerge from this Summit having identified the Honourable General Bantu Holomisa issues that result in, or exacerbate, the divisions that exist amongst our people. We can attribute these divisions to ‘The role of political parties in building a socially a variety of causes, but the most important matter that inclusive society’ we have to address, and we have to do this urgently, is the fact that the majority of our people are not active Programme Director, Political Colleagues, Ladies and participants in our economy and are not able to generate Gentlemen, wealth for themselves.

Introduction This Summit would have failed in its duty, if we leave here without endorsing the need for an Economic Codesa We are pleased to be here today to participate in this that would be tasked to address macro-economic Social Cohesion Summit. This debate is long overdue. policies, because there has been no consensus on this During the State of the Nation debate in 2008, I proposed issue amongst South Africans. Such a convention should, that an economic indaba, on the scale of Codesa, should in particular, come up with solutions to the important be hosted to talk about the economic emancipation of issues of the lack of access to capital, as well as land and our people. In his response, former President Thabo property ownership. With due respect, NEDLAC has Mbeki said that there was great merit in this idea and that failed the country on these important issues. the matter of social cohesion should form part of such an indaba. Late as it may be, we have at last started with the process of finding solutions to our country’s problems. As a nation, we should have this kind of debate on a regular basis with the express purpose of trying to heal the wounds of our divided past and continue building on the gains we have made to transform South Africa into a winning nation.

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The issues reintroduce those incentive schemes, because our businesses are competing against products that are Socio-economic freedom and social cohesion depend on heavily subsidised; certain basic conditions that affect citizens’ physical ability, • review the funding model of our expensive and are also directly linked to their dignity, including the education system which fails to produce skills following: required by employers; • relook at the rural and urbanisation strategy, as • Jobs - the previously disadvantaged must be the current policies have allowed people to build untangled from the malaise of poverty and anywhere they like resulting in our cities becoming underdevelopment. To do this there must be slums; productive employment and a decent living wage • start integrating the former homelands and for our people. In the long run, food security can townships’ infrastructure into the developed parts only be achieved and hunger beaten if people have of this country ; jobs. • take another look at our system of budgeting - are • Education - without knowledge and skills people we allocating resources according to the size of cannot make informed decisions and achieve their the population or its needs; goals, and so enhance their livelihoods. • address South Africa’s failing food security • Health - people need to be healthy and have programmes; adequate health care in order to reach their full • build an internal economic capacity in our country potential and share in the benefits of a democratic to minimise the growing xenophobia which is society. spawned by competition for scarce resources by • Security - people who feel under siege from locals and immigrants; criminals in their homes, neighbourhoods and • constantly review South Africa’s international places of work cannot fully concentrate on trade tariffs and duties to protect developing pursuing their aspirations. local industries, encourage exports, increase • Property ownership - without ownership of land international trade and support inbound tourism; and property people are unable to participate • urgently address rampant crime and lawlessness; actively in the economic and social life of the • ensure that the civil service, government country. departments and state-owned enterprises are run effectively and are free of corruption since When these conditions are lacking or inadequate, social corruption in government slows GDP growth, cohesion and economic freedom for all cannot be causes distortions in the economy and results achieved. in inefficiencies that increase the cost of doing business and it also discourages the culture of Solution: government must do more paying tax; • lead in the promotion of entrepreneurship Our point of departure is that socio-economic change amongst our people and remove the bureaucratic can only be achieved by a government that is willing stumbling blocks; to invest in its own economy and its people, especially • continue to contribute to peace and stability inside considering the history of our country. our borders, with our immediate neighbours and the rest of the Continent; This is a philosophy that says: “Government must do • make the environment a priority today, or our more” and it stands in stark contrast to the thinking that children and their children will face great hardship government must do less, and everyone else must do tomorrow. more. In order for this to be achieved, we should resolve that government must: Role of political parties

• reverse the decision of de-industrialisation which In order to strengthen our multi-party democracy and led to millions losing their jobs; there is a need to to promote the checks and balances, more work has to

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be done to level the playing field when it comes to the in Unity in Diversity. But then, we should respect and resourcing of political parties. In this regard, there is a accommodate diversity and stop paying superficial lip need to put legislation in place which governs the funding service to this reality. This country is large enough, with of political parties. There is also a need to introduce sufficient potential and opportunities to provide room electoral systems which would improve accountability to and space to us all under this beautiful African sun. This is the electorate. possible, but then we need the best recipe for true social cohesion and nation building. We believe that the current Closure recipe has failed and it will continue to fail because it emphasizes only one part of the truth of this country It is critical that we recognise that a responsible and its people. government cannot sit back and depend on market forces alone. In the final analysis the needs of every True nation building and social cohesion will not succeed citizen are rooted in the need for a decent job and if we merely continue to stumble from one sporting income. Therefore massive unemployment is at the root highlight to the next without successfully creating a true of every significant challenge facing South Africa today, sense of belonging amongst all of our peoples. It started and this includes social cohesion. with the Rugby World Cup in South Africa in 1995. Then in 2003 it was the World Cricket Cup. Then Cape Town’s I thank you. Olympic bid followed in 2004, but failed. Then we had the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup. Every time we had a --- surge of national pride, that soon thereafter dwindled and disappeared in the sand. This artificial process of Freedom Front +, Dr Corné Mulder nation building never succeeded in creating a long- lasting sense of belonging and true nationhood with the ‘The role of political parties in building a socially people and communities within South Africa. That is why inclusive society’ it was so easy for to completely polarise our society with his inciting statements. That is why we Chairperson, saw what happened to our society when the so-called “Spear” painting appeared. We can have as many sporting the preamble to our Constitution clearly states: “We events as we like, but it will never create a long-lasting and the people of South Africa… Believe that South Africa sustainable feeling of belonging and create a true place for belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity.” This everyone in the sun. is a very strong statement. If this statement were taken seriously we would already have had social cohesion and Successful social cohesion and nation building will only we would, to a large extent, have succeeded with true succeed when we have real unity in diversity. When it nation building in South Africa. However, that is clearly is founded on a real “better life for all”. When “all” also not the case. The mere fact that we need to have this includes minorities. When equal opportunities means national summit on social cohesion and nation building equal opportunities for all. When your children, but also 18 years after 1994, is a clear indication that we have my children, know that they will not be discriminated failed. against for this or that reason.

South Africa is one of the most diverse societies in I understand very well what the Hon. President means the world. We are a country of many races, cultures, when he says that name changes of streets and towns religions and languages with a divided past and different are also part of fostering social cohesion. I understand perspectives on history. It is also true that over many this and we recognise that it is only fair and just that the centuries we have become economically entwined heroes of the ANC’s struggle be remembered in that way. and dependent on one another. We all share the same However - if that recognition means that it must be done geographical area at the southern part of Africa - called by removing the names of Afrikaner heroes, then we are South Africa. This is our common home and country. The not busy with nation building and social cohesion, but people I represent also have no other. They also believe with alienation and new conflicts.

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Wew all kno that there is a political majority in South which will foster a sense of belonging and will succeed Africa, but it is also true that we have various other in the eradication of the increasing sense of alienation minorities, including political minorities. May I remind us currently experienced by minorities and communities. all of the following provision in the Freedom Charter: We have a dream. A dream of building A dream of All National Groups Shall Have Equal Rights! in South Africa a strong nation of happy people. A South Africa consisting of happy, building in South “There shall be equal status in the bodies of state, in prosperous and peaceful communities, the courts and in the schools for all national groups minorities and peoples. A South Africa Africa a strong and races; where no one feels alienated from his/her nation of happy country of birth. Where there is a place All people shall have equal right to use their own under this beautiful African sun for your people. languages, and to develop their own folk culture children, but also for mine. It can be done. and customs; --- All national groups shall be protected by law against insults to their race and national pride.” (Changing PAC – Ms Andiswa Mjali names of towns and streets named after my heroes is an insult to my national pride.) ‘The role of political parties in building a socially inclusive society’

South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and Honourable President, white. What does this “belong” mean? Those issues that The Hon. Minister of Arts and Culture – Minister Paul affect minorities, do we have any say over them? At the Mashatile moment the answer is no. Only appeasement. We pay The Programme Director – Deputy Minister, Dr. J. Phaahla taxes but have no say over what happens to our money. Distinguished guests and everybody that has graced this We have no say in how names are changed and how our occasion, on behalf of the PAC leadership, I greet you all. heroes are being insulted. The Pan Africanist Congress of Azania is honoured to be The Freedom Charter continues and states that no invited to participate in this important summit. government can justly claim authority unless it is based on the will of all the people. Not the will of the majority, Today, this summit takes place against the background of but the will of ALL THE PEOPLE... Do minorities have momentous events in our democracy and social standing. no say? Eighteen years of our political democracy has resulted in a number of societal disorders or disarray, namely moral True social cohesion and nation building will only succeed degeneration, moving away from African traditions and if we accept and build on all the realities of South Africa. culture (thus adoption of western culture), lack of identity, Our minorities are part of this reality. The test for a true lack of discipline, disempowerment, further societal constitutional democracy is how you accommodate the divisions (as opposed to reconciliation), no access to minorities and communities in your country. South Africa land, further disparities between the haves and the have- will also not escape this test. nots, a widening gap between the representatives and the supposedly represented, unemployment, deteriorating The Commission for the Promotion and Protection education system. The list, ladies and gentlemen is endless. of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities has failed. Since its inception it has done One wonders why after 18 years we would begin to have nothing to promote or protect the rights of minorities a summit of this nature. In a country where there has and communities. If we are serious about social cohesion been a lot of distortion with regards to our history, one and nation building the time has come to create a new would expect what we are currently witnessing. Lest we Department of Minority Affairs. A dedicated department, forget, the slave trade, land dispossession, dehumanization

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of the African people can never be erased from our developing other important skills. African languages minds; therefore societal disorders need not be taken continue to be undermined and as such this fosters for granted. It should be borne in our minds that the the apartheid legacy of divide and rule as we fail to hopes and dreams of our people have been shattered; recognize that before being ethnically or politically they have lost their hope from their own brothers whom divided we are all part of the human race. Currently, they thought were fighting for their liberation. only one language enjoys supremacy over the rest and as such further promotes disparities in Quoting from our founding President, Robert Mangaliso ensuring that our African languages thrive and are Sobukwe in 1959, he said about social relations: respected. Eurocentric values are entrenched at the expense of African norms and values and this “The basic question confronting the African people is has led to the birth of izikhothani just to name a identical with that has faced mankind from the beginning few as these practices are foreign to our continent. of time itself: the problem of man’s relations to his fellowman. It is the question of how man shall live with 4. The African Royalty (Amakhosi/Dikgosi) is fellowman in fellowship; in one and in peace. Man moves historically part of the African socio-politico- and has his being in a social environment. In absence of cultural landscape. We believe that their role social life the economic question would fall away. Man is should never be taken for granted in moving therefore a social being and not an economic animal. To towards social cohesion. live in harmony with his fellowmen, man must recognise the primacy of the material and spiritual interests of his In conclusion, as the PAC we are committed and shall fellowmen. It is only within such a set-up that the human support and form part of initiatives that aim at liberating personality can be fostered.” our societies and restoring African dignity, societal values, morals and culture. We firmly believe that this should be As the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, our role a collective effort that will result in collective results. can never be isolated from the whole political society, including Government. We believe that for social I thank you! unity to be a reality and not a dream the following is necessary: ---

1. Political parties need to be capacitated through fair African Christian Democratic Party and just funding. As things stand, smaller parties can – Mr Raymond Thlali hardly afford to assemble a team of researchers as a skewed party funding restricts parties from ‘The role of political parties in building a socially operating at maximum potential. If Government inclusive society’ considers this reality, it can result in collectivity in unity of purpose. Programme director, President of the Republic of SA, the Hon. Jacob Zuma, Minister of Arts and Culture, the 2. Social inclusivity should entail a fair and just Hon. Paul Mashatile, Cabinet Ministers present, MECs, distribution of means of production, including land members of parliament and provincial legislatures, distribution (in urban and rural areas). The tender leaders of political parties, honourable guests, Ladies and system is one example where we see unfair and Gentlemen - allow me to say, all protocol observed. unjust issuing to close friends of those working within the government system. The ACDP appreciates the opportunity afforded by the Department of Arts and Culture to contribute towards 3. Education programmes should be used as a tool of the production of a “Draft Social Cohesion Strategy”. liberating the young and the old. Social cohesion However, we hope that this is not just another talk show. will be possible when learners are taught about their true history, traditions and culture (thereby Social and economic divisions within our societies remain appreciating others in different cultures), including stumbling blocks to the total emancipation of our people. It

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is a fact that societies remain fragmented in terms of, inter • balancing the opposing demands and converting alia, race, gender, class, urban and rural settings. them into general policies; With the inception of Democracy in 1994, the challenges • activating and mobilizing citizens into participating remain. in political decisions and transforming their opinions • Healing the divisions of the past. into viable policy options. • Creating a society based on people’s aspirations and participation. Political parties are, therefore, directly or indirectly, • Addressing the negative indicators of social cohesion institutionalized mediators between civil society and and social injustice e.g. income inequalities. those who decide and implement the decisions. By implication, all political parties play a significant role in We are also of the opinion that these and other objectives building a socially cohesive society and must as such be can be achieved by, inter alia, taken seriously despite their size, ideology or inclination. • Building a caring society, the citizens of which are empowered, skilled to fend for themselves thereby contributing positively to the economy In conclusion, all of the above-mentioned roles of political of their country and transforming their own parties in building a socially inclusive society can be circumstances marked by poverty, joblessness, achieved if and only if the following rights and obligations crime, corruption, homelessness, to mention but are observed: a few. • Freedom of organisation; • Transforming the material circumstances of society. • freedom of speech; • Ensuring the inclusion of people in social relations • fair and peaceful competition; in a coherent, constructive and productive way. • media access, fair reporting and, finally, • Addressing the social and economic divisions still • fair allocation of resources for political intervention. existing along the lines of income, language and political party. I thank you

The ACDP therefore supports the creation of a caring --- society and a united, non-racial nation.

The importance of the role of political parties in achieving FEDUSA – Mr Dennis George this outcome cannot be overemphasized, namely - ‘The role of Labour in building a socially inclusive • helping South African citizens to develop a sense of society’ belonging; • encouraging a shared vision among its diverse citizens Honourable guests, colleagues, comrades, compatriots, on the future of their community and society; South Africa has held four free and fair elections since • developing a broadly shared set of public values 1994; carried out the truth-and-reconciliation process, and norms for social conduct; and firmly established an independent constitutional • promoting respect and tolerance irrespective of judiciary based on a Bill of Rights with a relatively free political and ideological differences; press. Yet, the country’s economic, ethnic and social • encouraging regular interaction and cooperation problems are serious enough to pose a real challenge to among its diverse members; our young democratic system. • aggregating and articulating the needs and problems as identified by members, supporters This situation has prompted many South Africans to and communities at large; speculate whether our nation will accomplish its promise • socializing and educating the electorate and as Africa’s powerhouse. Our Constitution is our first real citizens in the functioning of the political and social compact that has united our people and released electoral system and the generation of general us from the chains of apartheid. political values;

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Our people tend to remember our rights. However, and Community, we travelled to a deep Eastern Cape with every right comes an obligation. We as FEDUSA village in the rain to meet with parents, learners and align ourselves with the principle of Chapter 15 of the officials of the Basic Education Department on a National Development Plan “We feel we belong. We Sunday to explain the importance of making use of the celebrate all the differences among us. The welfare of opportunity to obtain a quality education. each of us is the welfare of all.” FEDUSA was, however, dismayed when we witnessed afterwards that the teachers in the Eastern Cape went FEDUSA has worked very hard and made tough decisions on a go-slow when their grievances were not addressed to unite black and white workers since the formation adequately by the Eastern Cape Government. We were of our beloved organisation in 1997. We were called a even further shocked when an NGO had to take the white trade union federation, this was deeply offensive Limpopo Authorities to Court over the non-delivery of and hurtful, but I am grateful to our former FEDUSA text-books. President, Mary Malete, who encouraged us to remain faithful to the principle that all men and women are Those who stand in our way to deliver quality education created equal and that the colour of your skin does not to our children must be removed from the education determine the integrity of your heart. system irrespective of political affiliation. We don’t have Years ago, after the negotiation of our precious labour to wait until 2030 to achieve our goal to deliver a better legislation, it was very tough for our negotiator, Leon and quality education in order to give a poor child better Grobler and myself to go and explain to our members the life opportunities. importance of the implementation of the Employment Equity Act, to ensure that we redress the injustices of It is also better to appoint a committed white person the past. who is disciplined, on time at school and who is willing to go the extra mile to help our disadvantaged children, A recent study by Naledi actually found that FEDUSA than to sit with a black person who does not care for the has transformed to be more than 65% representative of well-being of our children. the demographics of our country, and we have to thank all of our Affiliates for this achievement. We are arguably Poor-quality education undermines our efforts to the most diverse trade union federation in South Africa. provide decent work and access to higher education for our learners, which in turn results in keeping our poor I am very proud of the bold decisions that our leaders communities in poverty and under-development. took in the interest of our country. It was no wonder, when President Zuma delivered his keynote address at The time allocated is too short to deal with the other our 5th National Congress that he thanked FEDUSA for challenges that affect social cohesion but FEDUSA is being the rainbow federation of South Africa, representing committed to building a non-racial and non-sexist black, Coloured, Indian and white workers. democratic society free from poverty, inequality and unemployment. Organised Labour has a critical role to play in equal partnership with Government and business to create an We will have to make tough decisions in many areas to environment to ensure that quality education is delivered turn the situation around. It will take true leaders and real from Grade R to our higher education institutions. statesmen who rise to the top to make the difference!

Quality education is the best gift and opportunity that we I thank you. can give to the South African child. Quality education is the cornerstone of any progressive and forward-looking society, which is committed to promoting social cohesion and nation building.

It was for that reason that we signed on to the Social Accord on Basic Education with Government, Business

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NACTU – Mamaponya Makgoba In conclusion, as NACTU we believe that this Summit should not be a once-off. It should serve as the base- ‘The role of Labour in building a socially inclusive line that we use to deal with social cohesion and we society’ need to also use it to change how we deal with each other for a better country. Programme Director; President of the Republic of South Africa; Ministers; MECs; Magoshi; Comrades; Ladies and We also need to agree that for social cohesion to be Gentlemen, Good Afternoon. realised, issues that are critical to be building blocks for any nation to win should be what we nurture if we do I am here representing the General Secretary of NACTU, not want to fail. Comrade Narius Moloto, who said I should bring greetings from the leadership and the entire membership 1. The issue of language should be what we pay of NACTU. attention to.

NACTU would like to congratulate the Department Arts 2. The issue of Education should be what we pride and Culture and the Minister for having organised this ourselves in; and thus as NACTU we strongly social cohesion summit at a time when there is a lot of believe that it is not only in Limpopo where books uncertainty and intolerance seems to be heightened. were not delivered. We were requested to talk about the role of labour in 3. It should be our effort to work to make sure building a socially inclusive society. Labour is made up that does not happen again. Because for social of men and women who form part of the societies they cohesion to win, all our children must be treated come from. fairly in order to level the playing field.

As NACTU, we continuously analyse the environment 4. We also should work tirelessly to eradicate that we operate in and more often than not, we come poverty, and make the lives of ordinary South to the conclusion that as a country, as a nation our Africans better. commonalities are more than our differences. But what is holding us back and lacking is that we are holding onto I thank you. classifications that we inherited and we allow them to thrive.

In representing workers and the working class there is a need to be cognisant of the gaps that have been brought about by the changes the country has undergone. As they have widened at an alarming rate we as a country, are unable to deal with them and we also do not have the required will to create the required number of jobs and we believe that social cohesion will be realised if the gaps that are there are being addressed in earnest; and there is will from all to see that it is realised and achieved.

For social cohesion to be realised, we believe it is our role to protect workers from any form of slavery, as it seems to be the trend these days, Thus social cohesion is a critical process that should at all times be encouraged so that the youth or the young workers of this country will all feel that they are in a country which was fought for by their forefathers and mothers.

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Legal Resources Centre – Ms Zodwa or are we content with a nation that coexists peacefully Gumede and in harmony without any wars and hatred? If it is peace and harmony we hope for, to a certain extent, ‘The role of Civil Society in building a socially we are well on our way to achieving that. I heard some inclusive society’ speakers earlier saying it has been so long, there are no positive results, the method has failed. I dare to say, we Programme director, the honourable Minister, Mr Paul have actually achieved quite a lot. Mashatile, other distinguished officials and all present here today, We have a constitution that pretty much protects us from all foreseeable evils, and if the lines are crossed, we My name is Zodwa Gumede; I am from the Constitutional have the courts to vindicate our rights. Litigation Unit (CLU) at the Legal Resources Centre. We even have special courts, particularly the equality The LRC is a human rights organisation which uses court, which is less formal and was set up specifically to the law to protect the vulnerable and the marginalised, deal with unacceptable behaviour which can reasonably particularly those who suffer discrimination by reason be construed to cause hatred . In other words, behaviours of race, class, gender, disability or by reason of social, those create division and cause hatred in society. economic and historical circumstances. We work with communities in the furthest corners of Civil society is in the forefront in bringing about the country as far as our resources can take us. societal changes.

I am here to speak about the role of civil society in One of the character traits expected of civil society bringing about social cohesion. is tolerance.

Organised civil society is made up of many organisations Of course in order to create a caring and proud society, representing different facets of our society from all walks we require much more than mere tolerance, the ideal is of life. As a civil society we are everywhere, working cohesion. But in a country with our history, tolerance is with everyone from all walks of life. Because we are definitely a start. everywhere we play a vital role in building participatory democracy. Another trait that is known of civil society is that they speak out when the values they stand for are threatened Organised civil society, in the form of NGOs, often in any way. partners with government to drive various public programmes, be it to reach out to the disaster-stricken When young girls wearing mini-skirts are attacked at areas or to intervene in home-based care in helping the taxi rank in Noord Street Johannesburg, civil society with the HIV/Aids pandemic, and all sorts of other takes to the streets and speaks out. things. When women and children are abused, civil society There is no master plan, no one big idea or big thing that speaks out. when done or accomplished, will solve all South Africa’s problems or will have the result of instantly joining people When there are xenophobic attacks against foreign together. With every baby step we take, we approach the nationals, again civil society speaks out. ideal of social cohesion. When Government fails to deliver basic services, civil We must, however, be realistic in what we hope for. society speaks out and with help from organisations such as the LRC; we take them to court when necessary. When we say social cohesion, what exactly do we mean? We know that as the LRC we are sometimes not very Do we expect different people to be socially interactive popular with Government as we bring endless litigation on a regular/daily basis, to live life as one big happy family against various state departments.

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We do so because we believe in our Constitution and Heritage Foundation – Major-General we believe in our government which is why we hold you Gert Opperman to task. If we didn’t believe you could do what you have undertaken to do, we would not bother. ‘The role of Civil Society in building a socially inclusive society’ Had it not been for women’s movements, many abused women would not come forward. Had it not been for 1. The Heritage Foundation would like to associate institutions like the LRC, many of the poor people would itself with the theme of the conference, i.e. to work not have access to justice. This is so, not because our legal together to create a caring and proud society in system does not allow everyone access to justice, but South Africa. simply because they do not have the financial muscle and the know-how to bring cases to court. 2. The Heritage Foundation sees itself as a positive agent of change in the country, taking from the past The question is, do all these laudable actions by organised what is good and what inspires us, but at the same civil society bring about social cohesion? The answer is time also learning from the lessons of the past, to absolutely not. One may hope that if things are running contextualize all in the present, but even more smoothly, it is easier for people to focus on building a important to use that as a base to reach out to a caring and proud society, but when people are hungry, better future for all in our fatherland. have no basic services and feel frustrated and angry there is very little interest in being nice to each other. 3. The Voortrekker Monument and The Heritage Foundation have taken the initiative in a number So what needs to happen? As civil society we need to of ways to promote reconciliation and nation continue doing the good work that we do. We need to building. I would like to mention a few examples. continue speaking out and educating our people. We need to continue promoting public dialogue and the 3.1 Liaison with and assistance with the training of spirit of forgiveness and healing. a number of staff members of the Apartheid and the Hector Peterson Museums. We need to continue working together with Government in initiating programmes that serve the nation.As a nation 3.2 MoU with Freedom Park. The Voortrekker we have come a very long way. Rome was not built in Monument obtained the funds for the one day. It has only been 18 years. Our people are still construction of the linking road between very angry. We must be realistic about our expectations. Freedom Park and the Voortrekker Take the example of running a sewing machine. It takes Monument from the Lotto Fund, and also about a minute to ruin the fabric but when you have to managed the whole project. undo that, you can spend up to an hour, or forever. The same goes for undoing the evils of the past. 3.3 Active liaison with Liliesleaf Museum. We provided much-appreciated inputs to the Civil society must continue mobilising and lobbying our latter re marketing of itself as a tourist people to move forward. destination in China.

We must educate and encourage dialogue. 4. The Heritage Foundation was established to help take care of all threatened heritage resources, When we disagree, we must do it in a constructive not only those of the Afrikaans-speaking part of manner and we must always remember that every little the population. Accept the fact that previously bit counts. advantaged communities will have to work harder to take care of their own heritage resources, as The media is a powerful tool. Let us make use of it to Government is concentrating on addressing the build the nation. imbalances of the past.

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5. If empowered to do so by the Department of B. Poverty and Human Rights Arts and Culture, the Heritage Foundation would be willing to do even more in respect of • “Millions of people are systematically deprived of threatened heritage resources, but regrettably fundamental human rights simply because they are it receives no state subsidy and therefore does poor.” not have the necessary resources to play a bigger • From a human rights perspective, poverty can role. The demand for its services is nevertheless be described as the denial of a person’s right to increasing by the day, especially at provincial and a range of basic capabilities. Poverty is more than local government level, where serious neglect of just a lack of income. Poverty is also about power heritage resources is being experienced. and inequality. • Poverty is caused by lack of capabilities or freedoms 6. The Heritage Foundation already assists SAHRA such as the right to education, health, shelter ─ as in respect of the care and maintenance of ABW- opposed to the trickle-down thesis. concentration camp cemeteries, as well as Burgher • A poor person is one who is deprived of basic graves and POW graves and cemeteries, in South capabilities – such as the capability to be free from Africa and abroad. hunger, to live in good health, to be literate, to have social security and so on. 7. The Heritage Foundation also played a key role in • In the language of rights, one may say that a poor KZN, re the construction of a pedestrian bridge person is one for whom a number of human rights over the river between the Ncome Museum and remain unfulfilled – such as the rights to food, the Blood River Heritage Site. health, education and so on. • Persons living in poverty are deprived of their right --- to dignity.

Foundation for Human Rights – Mr C. Constitutional Provisions on socio-economic rights Hanif Vally Founding provisions ‘The role of Civil Society in building a socially inclusive society’ Improve the quality of life of all citizens and free the potential of each person; A. Introduction • Section 1: The Republic of South Africa is one sovereign, democratic state founded on the • The political culture of a country crystallizes following values: around its constitution. a) Human dignity, the achievement of equality • Each national culture develops a distinctive and the advancement of human rights and interpretation of those constitutional principles – freedoms. in the light of its own national history. • Section 2: This Constitution is the supreme law of • A ‘constitutional patriotism’ based on these the Republic; law or conduct inconsistent with it is interpretations can take the place originally invalid, and the obligations imposed by it must be occupied by nationalism. fulfilled. • Human social life rests on our capacity to have • Section 3: There is a common South African more or less clear communication with each other. citizenship. All citizens are – We communicate - to paraphrase Descartes - a) equally entitled to the rights, privileges and therefore our society progresses. benefits of citizenship; • The potential for transforming the world and • Section 10: Everyone has inherent dignity and the arriving at a more humane, just and egalitarian right to have their dignity respected and protected. society is through the realization of the human • Section 26: Adequate Housing. potential for reason. • Section 27(1)(a): Right to health care, food, water, social security.

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• Section 27(2): Within available resources; E. Civil Society progressive realisation of these rights. • Section 29: Education. • Checks and balances based on principles by • Section 8: All these rights, civil, political and socio- Montesquieu in the 18th Century. economic are enforceable. • Still have the division between the Judiciary, • The phrases “available resources” and Legislature and the Executive. “progressive realisation” allow government to • Role of Executive and Legislature getting blurred: set time-lines and prioritise. It does not allow party discipline, proportional representation lists, for an indefinite deferment. patronage. • The recognition of a time dimension and the • Important role for civil society to reinforce need for prioritization are common features democracy. of all approaches to policy-making. • The distinctiveness of the human rights Role of civil society approach is that it imposes certain conditions on these features, so that the pursuit of human • Research on social and economic problems. rights is not reduced to mere rhetoric in the • Lobbying and advocacy. name of progressive realization. • Campaigns. • Supporting the government on delivery of rights. D. Inequality and Social Justice • Mediation with government departments to improve service delivery. • Litigation to force the state to comply with its constitutional and legal obligations. • Peacefully confronting government through protests and petitions when the state fails to comply with its constitutional and legal obligations.

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Progressive Women’s Movement – Ms Xoliswa Bam

‘The role of Civil Society in building a socially inclusive society’

As representative of a women’s’ movement I stand here to speak on behalf of the Progressive Women’s Movement and its role in building a socially inclusive What is it about unequal societies that cause the damage? society. I therefore speak from a gender perspective.

• It is suggested that the answer lies in the psycho- • First, to many the movement is fairly new, but it has been social areas of hierarchy and status. around since March 2007 when it was launched. • The greater the differential between the haves and • The main focus areas of the movement are have-nots, the greater importance everyone places economic empowerment, skills development, on the material aspects of consumption; what brand gender-based violence, HIV/Aids and the health of car you drive carries far more meaning in a more programme. hierarchical society than in a flatter one. • This Summit aims to formulate strategies that will • It’s the knock-on effects of this status anxiety that assist in addressing the social ills that are plaguing finds socially corrosive expression in crime, ill- our society and makes it imperative to diagnose health and mistrust. and dissect the social problems confronting us as a people.

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EMANCIPATION OF WOMEN AND JUSTICE FOR ALL PWMSA has now formed a trust.

The mobilization of women is the task, not only of women Object of the trust alone, or of men alone, but of all of us, men and women alike, comrades in the struggle. The mobilization of the • The trust is a non-profit organization of a public people into active resistance and struggle for liberation character, established for the object of preparing demands the energies of women no less than that of men. and providing disadvantaged learners with skills A system based on the exploitation of man by man can support (educational and social) and scholarships in no way avoid the exploitation of women by the male for higher education studies. members of society. There is no way in which women in general can liberate themselves without fighting to end The trust will do this by doing the following: the exploitation of man by man, both as a concept and as a social system. (O. R. Tambo, 14 September 1981) • Providing academic support to the learners before, during and after the scholarship. EMANCIPATION OF WOMEN AND DEMOCRACY • Collaborating with higher education institutions both nationally and internationally. The liberation of women is a fundamental necessity • Serving as a link between the schools and the FETs: for the revolution, a guarantee of its continuity and a • Assessment and placement of learners in FETs, condition for its success (Machel, 1973). In his opening nationally and internationally address to the first conference of the Mozambique • Provision of bridging programmes based on the Women’s Organisation (OMM) in 1973, Samora Machel, learners’ needs and career aspirations. President of Frelimo, affirmed that women’s emancipation • Collaborating with government and other was an integral aspect of revolutionary struggle. institutions with the same goal. • Providing information and personal development EMANCIPATION OF WOMEN MAKES ECONOMIC training to the learners, including career guidance. SENSE • Developing programmes that empower the youth to deal with issues related to their health and well- Gender equality is smart economics as countries which being, and improving their quality of life. create better opportunities and conditions for women can raise productivity and improve outcomes for children Conclusion

EMANCIPATION OF WOMEN MUST BE ATTAINED Iny this wa PWMSA hopes to grow and continue to BY ALL make society a better place for all and for women in particular. Furthermore, through participating within FET GENDER EQUALITY MUST BECOME A LIVED structures and working closely with the Department REALITY of Education, it will not only contribute to individual personal development but also to social cohesion and MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE the development of our society as a whole.

SOUTH AFRICA IS DOING WELL IN PROMOTING WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND PARTICIPATION

SOUTH AFRICA STILL NEEDS TO DO MORE TO REDUCE POVERTY AND IMPROVE ACCESS TO ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES

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WORKING TOGETHER TO CREATE A CARING AND PROUD SOCIETY

!KE E: /XARRA //KE:

WORKING TOGETHER TO CREATE A CARING AND PROUD SOCIETY

A NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR DEVELOPING AN INCLUSIVE AND A COHESIVE SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIETY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.

- Nelson Mandela

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1. Introduction 2. Purpose

This is a draft National Strategy on Social Cohesion The purpose of this document is to propose a National and Nation-Building developed by the Department of Strategy on Social Cohesion and Nation-Building for Arts and Culture (DAC). Intended for public comment South Africa, by: and revision, it responds to the ongoing and unfinished national project which began with the transformation of • Proposing a theme for the strategy South Africa into a constitutional democracy in 1994 – • Proposing a vision for social cohesion and nation this being the building of a just society which upholds building and embodies the principles and values of an inclusive, • Proposing principle for social cohesion and nation- non-racial democracy. building • Formulating a problem statement More specifically, it responds to Outcome 12 of the set • Assessing advancements in social cohesion and of 12 Outcomes adopted by Cabinet in January 2012. nation building made sine 1994 It does so by taking to the national democratic project • Contextualising social cohesion and nation- embarked on in 1994, further within the medium-term, building a framework covering April 2010 to March 2014. As • Conceptualising social cohesion and nation- such it represents the most recent stage in the national building democratic project. It unfolds against the historical • Defining social cohesion and nation-building background of the stark divisions and inequalities • Proposing principles of social cohesion and nation- produced by the exclusivist, oppressive and exploitative building social systems of colonialism and apartheid which held • Identifying Indicators threatening to social sway over South Africa for most of its modern history. cohesion And the advances made since 1994 in overcoming this • Recommending social cohesion and nation-building legacy. strategies and programmes

This strategy is therefore oriented towards the South Driven by the DAC, this is a national strategy that, by its African meanings of social cohesion and nation-building very nature, is intergovernmental and cross-sectorial. It embedded as they happen to be in African social ideas surveys the terrain with a view to proposing contextually and cultures and their dynamic interaction with other informed and measurable social cohesion programmes at cultures. All human societies, at both local-community all levels of social and public life in South Africa. level and larger intercommunity- and national-life level, require sets of shared values, norms, visions and goals to secure co-operation and foster bonds of belonging. In the 3. Vision context of South Africa, the concept of ubuntu articulates a social humanism of interpersonal care, sharing and a This national strategy aims to contribute to the creation commitment to the greater social good. of a caring an proud society informed by a vision based on:

Freedom, Democracy and Justice Rights and Responsibilities Equality and Inclusion Shared Values and Symbols Unity and Diversity

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4. Theme Institutions have laid the foundations for an inclusive and just relationship between the citizens and the state The preamble to the Constitution of South Africa at different levels of government, as well as with other declares: “We the people of South Africa … believe that public and private agencies, the effective realisation of the South Africa belongs to everyone who lives in it, united full participation of all citizens remains uneven At both in our diversity”. national and local government levels, from the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the This is reiterated in the motto on the National Coat Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) to the Integrated of Arms by the /Xam expression !ke e: /xarra //ke which Development Planning (IDP) of local government and its literally means diverse people unite. It thus enjoins the ward committee system, the impact of these bodies and citizens to unite in a sense of belonging and pride. It processes is not optimal. is combined with the DAC’s work on social cohesion embarked on under the theme “Creating a Caring Widespread service delivery protests, “We the people Society” by adding “proud” en enjoining everyone to the outbreak of violence against participate, it reads: “ Working Together to Create a foreign nationals, high levels of crime, of South Africa … Caring and Proud Society”. gender violence, child abuse, chronic believe that South diseases and corruption indicate a breakdown between the government Africa belongs to 5. Problem Statement and the citizens, on the one hand, and the disregard for peaceful democratic everyone who lives In 1994 South Africa emerged from a long history in action and human rights values among in it, united in our which race, ethnicity and culture were used as the basis citizens, on the other. In combination, for the imposition of a divided, unequal and hierarchical these have resulted in the spread of diversity” society that excluded the majority of the population dissatisfaction and volatility in many from citizenship. This political and economic order had deprived communities across the far-reaching ramifications. country. The preamble to After almost 18 years of democracy, despite the progress Evidence suggests that the the Constitution of made in improving the quality of life of the vast majority constitutional recognition of of the population, the realities of poverty, inequality, citizenship along with the rights and South Africa unemployment, homelessness and landlessness remain responsibilities that go with this is stark. In some instances, such as unemployment and not firmly embedded in society and health, the situation has deteriorated sharply. In this concretised in everyday life. This gulf between formal context of economic underperformance and minority- citizenship and reality lies at the heart of the breakdowns and middle-class privilege, the phenomena of violent between citizens and public institutions as well as within crime and abuse of women, children, the elderly and communities. foreign nationals have taken on disturbing proportions. Accordingly, when this problem has been recognised, The effect of all this was the systematic alienation of the challenge is to implement planned and outcomes- the majority of the population from national and local directed interventions that will fully empower citizens state institutions. This alienation was followed through at and foster the democratic norms and values of such all levels of society, leaving in its wake a deeply divided citizenship. How to enhance social cohesion and nation- society. building and full democratic citizenship is outlined as follows in the Service Delivery While much progress has been made since 1994 on many fronts, social exclusions still persist. This is integral to building a cohesive society, working together to achieve shared values and objectives which in As the Delivery Agreement for Outcome 12 points turn contribute to intercultural social solidarity and the out, while the constitution and its Chapter Nine crystallisation of a shared South African identity.

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6. Advances in Social Cohesion and Nation- ahead of the 2015 target date of the Millennium Building Since 1994 Development Goals.

Since the attainment of a non-racial democracy in 1994, • In a drive to eradicate extreme poverty, as the South Africa has, in relation to the problem statement basis for creating a caring society and secure the outlined above, made enormous strides in overcoming material well-being of its members, comprehensive the historically entrenched inequalities and exclusions of measures have been taken which combine cash centuries of minority rule. The country has consolidated grants with a range of social wages related to the process of building an inclusive, non-racial and free primary health care for all, subsidised housing, democratic society over the last 18 years. electricity, water, sanitation, refuse removal and transportation, including the transfer of home • A constitutional democracy, based on the rule of ownership of to renting residents in urban law, subject to the provisions in the constitution and communities historically segregated and designated the separation of powers, has replaced the racially as township. These interventions have resulted in exclusive and non-accountable parliamentary the decline of absolute poverty from 11.3% in 2000 political dispensations of the past. to 5% in 2006, dropping continuously.

• Legislatures, at all three levels of government, • Equality, of persons, across race, gender and culture have been established for which representation is is a cornerstone of the South African constitution. contested in an unrestricted multi-party system. In this regard, emphasis has been placed on accelerating the participation of women in political, • The once fragmented political geography of economic, social, educational and cultural spheres apartheid and the physical segregation of people of life. In terms of political participation, the along racial and ethnic lines no longer has any legal representation of women in Parliament increased force. Even though the spatial imprints of the past from 27.8 in 1994 to 43.3% in 2009. In provincial are still visible, many communities have gradually legislatures it in increase from 25.4% to 42.4% over become more integrated. the same period.

• As an independent African country made up of • Once the pariah of the world, South Africa has, from diverse peoples and cultures, South Africa has been the inception of democracy become a beacon for hard at work in creating a society in which all its the peaceful resolution of conflict at home, on the citizens are valued as equal human beings with the continent and globally. Participating in world affairs, same rights regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, South Africa has worked for the transformation religion, language or location. inter-continental and intercontinental institutions.

• Economic and property laws which once excluded • It has successfully organized and hosted major the majority of the population have been international economic, cultural and sporting abolished and access to resources and economic events including the 2010 FIFA World Cup. opportunities are no longer the preserve of a racial minority. • The draft National Development Plan: Vision 2030 envisages an inclusive growth path through the • The diverse languages, cultures and religions of the improvement of education and skills; investment society enjoy constitutional protection and the in science and technology; public infrastructure; right to development. industrial development; accelerated land reform and food security; the expansion of employment • A single national education system at primary, opportunities; safety and security; urban secondary and tertiary levels as replaced the development; a national health-care system and system of segregated, ethnic-based and Bantu the further reduction of poverty and inequality Education. This has resulted in the attainment in the ongoing project of building a unified and of universal access to primary education well cohesive society.

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Advances made in relation to these and other critical 8. The Constitutional Basis of Social Cohesion areas of social cohesion and nation-building are further and Nation-building outlined in section 18 of this document which deals with the development indicators. The Constitution of South Africa has a direct bearing on social cohesion and nation-building. As mentioned, the Preamble declares that “South Africa belongs to all who 7. Principles of Social Cohesion and Nation- live in it, united in our diversity”. As underlined by the Building South African Human Rights Commission, this embraces every inhabitant of the country, both citizen and non- This strategy on social cohesion and nation-building is citizen. based on the following principles: • Constitutional Democracy It further stresses the indivisible unity, under the • Human Rights and Equality Constitution, of the country’s diverse people. It sets • Non-racialism, Non-tribalism and Non-sexism as one of its aims “to improve the quality of life of all • Unity in Diversity citizens and free the potential of each person”. In this • Inclusivity and social justice regard it is not a passive legal document replaced by a • Redress and Transformation transformative one. • Intergroup and Community Co-operation • Social Solidarity Section 1 affirms “non-racialism and non-sexism” as • Active and Participatory Citizenship foundational values and principles. In the light of this • Civic Responsibility Section 9(1) declares that “[e]veryone is equal before • National Consciousness the law and has the right to equal protection and benefit of the law”. Accordingly, Section 9 (3) stipulates: “The These principles serve as the touchstones of this strategy, state may not unfairly discriminate against anyone on and are aimed at fostering greater cohesion within one or more grounds, including race”. The same applies diverse communities and national unity between them to gender. Section 10 enjoins: “Everyone has inherent and across the country. dignity and has the right to have their dignity respected and protected”. These provisions along with the Bill of Rights and other provisions form the basis of laws and constitute the legal foundation of a democratic South Africa required to proactively correct injustices of the past.

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9. DAC Initiatives on Social Cohesion and urgency after 12 Outcomes were adopted at the 20- Nation-Building 22 January 2010 Cabinet Lekgotla. As a whole, the 12 Outcomes constitute a comprehensive implementation The arts, cultural, social cohesion and nation-building and delivery model that requires departments and mandate of the DAC captures in its vision: institutions across government and public institutions to lead effectively and to deliver high-impact outputs To develop and preserve South African culture to within the framework of the strategic policies, plans and ensure social cohesion and nation-building. priorities of government.

This mandate derives from its role as public custodian of The outputs specific to the DAC are the last three in the diverse cultures, languages and heritage of the people the list above. In the Delivery Agreement (2010), these of South Africa and as the national leader in providing outputs, designated as Outcome 12B has been assigned public support for the development of innovation across to the Department of Arts and Culture. Outcome 12A, the full spectrum of the arts as creative, economic and comprising the first four listed, has been assigned to social practices, and as bearers of a dynamic society. As the Department of Public Service and Administration a consequence, he department’s programmes cover the (DPSA). Outcome 12 B encompasses an empowered fair administration of arts and culture in society, language, and inclusive citizenship. heritage promotion and conservation, national archives, records, libraries and heraldry. 10. Conceptualising Social Cohesion and Nation- These programmes, integral to the social and cultural life Building of society, are carried out within specified constitutional and legal frameworks of the country. Hence, the DAC’s This section proposes a rethinking of the conventional Baseline Document on Social Cohesion Version 5 (2010) assignment of social cohesion and nation-building as points out that the DAC has over the years embarked on secondary and intangible by-products of the primary several research activities and projects related to social process of economic development. It conceptualises cohesion and nation-building. social cohesion and nation formation as interrelated and society-wide processes. In terms of this, all • In 2004, the DAC commissioned the Social spheres of society – economic, social, legal, cultural and Cohesion and Social Justice in South Africa study environmental – are to be understood and treated as conducted by the Human Sciences Research social processes. They garner legitimacy and impact in Council (HSRC). direct relation to the extent to which they contribute, • The July 2007 Cabinet Lekgotla approved a macro- directly and indirectly, to enhance the material, social, social strategic framework aimed at addressing cultural and physical quality of life of a society, both its the negative indicators of social cohesion identified citizenry and other members. in A Nation in the Making. This conceptualisation of economic development • In October 2009 a Social Cohesion Colloquium permeates the Declaration and Programme of Action of with the theme “Building a Caring Nation” was the 1995 World Summit for Social Development (WSSD) held to discuss the state of social cohesion in South on to the Freedom Charter, the Reconstruction and Africa. It recommended that a National Social Development Programme and the Constitution of South Cohesion Conference be held and that community Africa. conversation be held leading up to this

• A perception survey on social cohesion was conducted in KwaZulu-Natal in the communities of KwaCeza, Nquthu, Umbumbulu and Zwelinzima.

These initiatives, activities and plans aimed at promoting social cohesion and nation-building, assumed a new

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11. Convergence of Social Cohesion and National 12.2 Definition of Nation-Building Development Priorities Nation-building is the process whereby a society The policy environment within which this strategy must of people with diverse origins, histories, languages, be situated is complex. It involves a set of interrelated cultures and religions come together within the and overlapping initiatives at national level to which it has boundaries of a sovereign state with a unified to be aligned for optimal impact. The following are the constitutional and legal dispensation, a national most important initiatives: public education system, an integrated national economy, shared symbols and values, as equals, In order to effect the repositioning of Social Cohesion to work towards eradicating the divisions and and Nation-building to articulate and align with economic injustices of the past; to foster unity; and promote and social development strategies and policies, it is a countrywide conscious sense of being proudly necessary to establish the extent of convergence or non- South African, committed to the country and open convergence. to the continent and the world.

To this end convergence tables are constructed to gauge Accordingly, a nation is conceived as a social formation the following policies and their priorities: based on the unity and equality of its members consisting the following shared and recognised • Electoral Mandate: 2009-2014 attributes: • Draft National Development Plan: Vision 2030 (DNDP) • Shared Origin and history • New Growth Path: 2010-2014: (NGPP) • An internationally recognised territory • Industrial Policy Action Plan 2010-2014 (IPAP) • A unitary sovereign state • The Millennium Development Goals: 2000-2015 • A single judicial system (MDGS) • A share economy • Single public education system A high correlation between the national development • Nationally recognised languages policies and social cohesion listed above is evident. • Nationally recognised cultures • Nationally recognised religions • Shared values 12. Defining Social Cohesion and Nation-Building • Shared Symbols • A shared national consciousness 12.1 Definition of Social Cohesion In South Africa, the diverse cultures, languages Social cohesion is defined as the degree of social and religions should not be seen as impediments integration and inclusion in communities and to national unity given the statutory equality society at large, and the extent to which mutual accorded to all citizens. The challenge is to deepen solidarity finds expression itself among individuals and broaden these aspects to fully include all and communities. South Africans. In terms of this definition, a community or society is cohesive to the extent that the inequalities, exclusions and disparities based on ethnicity, gender, class, nationality, age, disability or any other distinctions which engender divisions distrust and conflict are reduced and/or eliminated in a planned and sustained manner. This, with community members and citizens as active participants working together for the attainment of shared goals designed and agreed upon to improve the living conditions for all.

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13 Dimensions of Social Cohesion and Nation- • Respect and tolerance for political and ideological Building differences

According to Cloete and Kotze, following De Wit, social • Regular interaction, exchange and co-operation cohesion consists of five dimensions. These are the first among its diverse members five listed below to which an additional three are added: • Respect for constitutionally-based laws, • Belonging international law and local regulations complying • Inclusion: with such laws • Participation • Recognition: • A high level of awareness of the rights and • Legitimacy obligations of citizens • Shared values • Co-operation • A proud consciousness of being South African • Belief • Active participation of citizens in public institutions, decision-making processes, projects, events and 14. Resources of Social Cohesion and Nation- celebrations at all levels of society Building • Democratic and peaceful resolution of disputes According to Emery & Flora and Jim Cavaye community and disagreements and social development is based on eight resources referred to as forms capital: These are: • Welcome and integration of immigrants into society

• Environmental Capital • Transparent and accountable handling of public • Cultural capital affairs by public representatives and government • Human capital officials • Social capital • Political capital • Financial capital • Construction capital

In the light of the above, a society such as South Africa as a cohesive and unified society should be characterised by:

• A sense of belonging for all its diverse citizens and members • A shared vision among diverse citizens on the future of their community and society

• A broadly shared set of public values and norms for social conduct

• Equal opportunities for development and advance for all people, regardless of their culture, gender, status, age, ability and region

• Positive valuation of diverse cultures, languages and religions

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15. Interrelationship of Social Cohesion and 16. Measuring Social Cohesion and Nation- Nation-Building Building

• Social cohesion is generally community-based and To monitor and measure the impact of social cohesion located at a micro-social level, while it is, at the same and nation-building policies and programmes, indicators time, underpinned by a national sense of belonging are needed that: and the extent of legitimacy of social institutions. • Clearly determine the nature and extent of the • Intercommunity cohesion, since the gap between specific problem of inequality and social exclusion the two levels above, in a country the size of South Africa, is relatively vast, and an intermediate level • Be both quantitatively and statistically validated as of social cohesion is necessary. This relates to the well as qualitatively and experience based. provinces that constitute the district and provincial or meso-levels of intercommunity life. • Be generally agreed upon and accepted by policy-makers, programme managers, community • Nation-building, on the other hand, is nationally participants; oriented and thus located at the macro-social level. • Be context-specific and adaptable; An integrated strategy of social cohesion, therefore, must engage and link up with all three levels of public life. • Be aligned to the patterns, tempo and direction of change;

• Be revised and adjusted in response to new and unforeseen developments;

• Be attainable and adequately resourced and supported;

• Be benchmarked and interpreted for comparative purposes, locally, nationally and internationally.

It requires drawing on quantitative indicators, that is, objective, national, provincial and local development indices, combined with experiential personal data, analysis and interpretation. The design, while attentive to global benchmarks, must be rigorously grounded in the particularities of South Africa.

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17. Building Consensus on a National Strategy for • Discrimination: Racism, Tribalism, Xenophobia Social Cohesion and Nation-building and Social Exclusion • Youth Development and Social Inclusion • Mainstreaming social inclusion and nation • Perceptions of Corruption and Basic Service formation in development plans and initiatives Delivery nationally, regionally and locally. • Social Support • Mobilisation of all the key participants, stakeholders • Active Citizenship and Identity and institutions • Building national support for the strategy and its objectives 19. Conclusion • Involving communities at all stages of planning and implementation The above indicates that while the prospects of • Building the requisite capacity and skills building a caring and proud society in South Africa are • Ensuring transparency and accountability not completely hopeless. Even so, there are significant • Combating nepotism, patronage and corruption impediments and challenges which have to be tackled in an urgent and sustained manner. If this is not done, the spectre of social disintegration and conflict could 18. Indicators of Social Cohesion and Nation- become a reality. As in the past, it is imperative to work Building together to create a caring and proud society.

• Slow Economic Growth and Transformation • Unemployment and Social Exclusion • Poverty, Inequality and Social Exclusion • Households, Land and Social Exclusion • Health and Social Exclusion • Uneven Access to Quality Education and Social Exclusion • Crime, Safety, Security and Justice • Gender Equity and Social Exclusion

Minister Dlamini Zuma and Minister Mashatile with a delighted delegate.

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Nkosi sikelel’ iAfrika Maluphakanyisw’ uphondo lwayo, Yizwa imithandazo yethu, Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo.

Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, Setjhaba sa, South Afrika — South Afrika.

Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes, Waar die kranse antwoord gee,

Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom In South Africa our land.

National symbols of South Africa

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Private Bag X 897 0001 T: +27 (12) 441 3000 F: +27 (12) 441 3699

Private Bag X9011 CAPE TOWN 8000 Tel: +27 (21) 465 5620 Fax: +27 (21) 465 5624

www.dac.gov.za

A NATIONAL SOCIAL COHESION SUMMIT REPORT