A Dialogue for Change
Welcome to the latest episode of our Radical Collaboration series, presented in partnership with Kagiso Trust. In this insightful conversation, we delve into the critical issues of corruption and social justice in the South African context. At Kagiso Trust, we believe in the power of open dialogue and collective effort to drive positive change, making this dialogue particularly relevant to our mission.
At the heart of our discussion lies the profound concept of social justice, a cornerstone of South Africa’s Constitution and a value deeply cherished by Kagiso Trust. Equal access to essential services, such as clean water, embodies the ideals we stand for – ensuring a better life for all citizens.
However, our conversation doesn’t shy away from the stark realities on the ground. Disparities in service quality among communities challenge the promise of social justice. We are honoured to have had esteemed experts in this dialogue: Zukiswa Kota from the Public Service Accountability Monitor (PSAM) and Wayne Duvenage, the committed CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA).
Corruption’s detrimental impact on social justice echoes our core beliefs. Corruption misallocates resources, weakens oversight, and nurtures a culture of impunity. Instances like the Giyani Bulk Water Project’s mismanagement underscore the urgency to combat corruption, a goal synonymous with Kagiso Trust’s commitment to social equity.
While South Africa’s journey towards social justice faces hurdles like corruption and local governance issues, Kagiso Trust remains dedicated to overcoming challenges for transformative change. The decline in essential services, exemplified by dwindling clean water access, contradicts our constitutional aspirations and spurs us to work even harder for meaningful impact.
As champions of collaboration, we acknowledge the role of democratic accountability – a theme resonating deeply with Kagiso Trust’s values. Our democracy is robust, yet holding elected officials accountable remains a concern. Just as we emphasise partnerships, the conversation highlighted the role of engaged communities in demanding accountability. Electoral reforms were discussed, aligning with our commitment to empower communities for lasting change.
Our shared commitment to collaboration is further highlighted by the proposed multi-stakeholder approach, where civic bodies collaborate with municipal authorities for positive change. The legal avenue, exemplified by the Makhanda case, aligns with Kagiso Trust’s pursuit of justice through multiple avenues.
Informed citizenry and civic education, in line with Kagiso Trust’s principles, emerged as potent drivers of change. Empowering individuals to engage in decision-making resonates with our mission of knowledge and empowerment for societal progress.
Transparency, accessibility, and vigilant citizenship form the bedrock of social accountability – values in sync with Kagiso Trust’s ethos of open dialogue and shared responsibility. Transparency, as we advocate, fosters public scrutiny, identifies anomalies, and preempts corruption – essential elements for ethical governance.
Amid the ongoing battle against corruption, the dialogue maintains an optimistic tone – emblematic of Kagiso Trust’s unwavering belief in positive change. Growing awareness, driven by investigative journalism and organisations like OUTA and PSAM, offer hope for change – mirroring Kagiso Trust’s faith in collective efforts for a better society.
This conversation encapsulates Kagiso Trust’s values: collective endeavour, empowerment, and resolute dedication to social justice. It underlines the roles that civil society, communities, businesses, and government play in shaping a more equitable future. As Kagiso Trust stands for sustained engagement, unwavering pursuit of justice, and holding power accountable, we move closer to the ideals of comprehensive social justice and inclusive development for every South African citizen.
SPEAKERS
Zukiswa Kota Bio: “ Zukiswa Kota holds the role of Programme Manager for PSAM at Rhodes University. Moreover, she’s the Coordinator of Imali Yethu, a civil society coalition partnered with the South African National Treasury to create South Africa’s inaugural online budget data portal, Vulekamali. Additionally, Zukiswa serves on the Board of Trustees for the Equal Education Law Centre (EELC)”.
Wayne Duvenage Bio: “ Wayne Duvenage holds the position of Chief Executive Officer at OUTA. With 25 years of experience in the travel andtourism sector, he served as Chief Executive at Avis for five years. Throughout his journey, Wayne contributed significantly by being on the board of the Tourism Business Council (TOMSA) and chairing the Car Rental industry body – SAVRALA for a few years”.
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