Khoi and San Communities Protest Outside UNISA Over Exclusion from National Convention

Pretoria, South Africa – Tensions rose outside the University of South Africa (UNISA) today as members of the Khoi and San communities staged a protest against their exclusion from the first National Convention, which marks the start of South Africa’s year-long National Dialogue.

While delegates inside prepared for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s keynote address, protesters voiced frustration at being sidelined from discussions addressing critical social and economic issues in the country.

READ: Khoisan Groups Feel Sidelined from National Dialogue |

Concerns Raised by Grassroots Communities

Peter, a representative from the Crisis Housing Committee, told SABC News that ordinary South Africans and grassroots communities were largely excluded from the process:

“We found out about this National Dialogue on the media. The setup seems predetermined, and the officials appear to have already decided on the outcomes.”

Protesters highlighted pressing issues affecting marginalized communities, including unemployment, housing shortages, and land ownership, demanding a stronger role in shaping national policies.

Another demonstrator from the Khoi and San community emphasized cultural exclusion, pointing out that indigenous languages and heritage remain underrepresented:

“The first language spoken on this soil is still not officially recognized. Our communities have been left on the periphery, yet our language is represented in the country’s coat of arms.”

READ: South Africans Abroad Push to Be Recognised as “10th Province” in National Dialogue |

Looking Ahead: Sectoral Meetings Across South Africa

Despite being excluded from the opening session, protesters expressed hope that upcoming sectoral meetings in all 4,468 wards nationwide would provide opportunities to voice concerns and participate meaningfully in the National Dialogue.

Organizers have promised follow-up conventions to assess progress, gather input from civil society, and ensure more inclusive engagement. The protests outside UNISA highlight ongoing debates about representation, inclusivity, and recognition of South Africa’s indigenous communities in national decision-making.