Delegates at the International Association for Public Participation Southern Africa (IAP2) –were unanimous in their comments that the government, business and civic society have an obligation to close the trust deficit between communities and the government.
The hybrid Conference was convened under the theme “Journey in time.” It was held in Bryanston on Friday, 18 March 2022, with other delegates connecting online from different parts of the world and country. More than 100 delegates attended the conference including those who joined online.
The City of Joburg Speaker of Council Cllr Vasco Da Gama said legislation compels local government to call for public participation for crucial decisions.
“In the City of Joburg, we take public participation very seriously because it is legislated to promote honest, transparent, robust engagement with a variety of stakeholders; youth, people with disabilities, religious and educational institutions, formal and informal business, sports bodies, special interest groups to name a few,” said Cllr da Gama.
Cllr da Gama said it was in the best interest of local government to create an enabling environment for active citizenry.
Tim Hart, IAP2 Board Member told delegates that it takes time to build trust from the communities.
“In my experience I’ve seen that truth and trust go hand in hand. We worked in a mining project in the Democratic Republic of Congo and had to consult with the rural communities.
We went in and engaged honestly with the residents and the particular human rights group. We were upfront about our challenges and problems. At the end of the long engagements they were welcoming to us,” said Hart.
Hart highlighted the need to welcome the diversity of voices in public participation process.
Amelia Visagie, also IAP2 Board Member who joined the discussion via the link in Cape Town, said public participation in South Africa should be inclusive.
“I believe our public private partnership is important to achieve sustainable development. Everyone has a voice, we just have to make time to listen. When we listen we can co-create impactful and meaningful sustainable solutions. We should inform, consult, collaborate and empower communities,” said Visagie.
Ken Smith, an IAP2 founder member said public participation was needed more in the most unequal country in the world.
Dr Thato Shale said the Conference was a testimony that the public participation profession was needed more than ever in Africa.
Written by Nkosana Lekotjolo
18/03/2022