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

South Africans Abroad Push for Recognition as “10th Province” in National Dialogue

Operation Watershed, a civic organisation advocating for democratic reform, is calling for South Africans living abroad to be formally recognised as a constituency – or the so-called “10th province” – in national decision-making processes. The group has submitted a request for representation on the steering committee of the National Dialogue, which was launched earlier this month under the theme “Uniting Voices, Shaping the Nation.”

Founder Hayley Reichert, who has long worked with the global South African diaspora, says more than one million citizens living overseas should not be excluded from shaping the country’s future. She argues that their voices, investments, and skills are vital in tackling some of South Africa’s most pressing challenges.

“I’ve been involved with the global South African community for over a decade, working on home affairs, consular services, and citizenship issues,” Reichert explained. “Many abroad still love South Africa, want to see it succeed, and hope to return one day. The question is: how can we get those people involved in driving the change the country desperately needs?”

Diaspora as a Driver of Change

Operation Watershed believes that the diaspora can play a key role in boosting investment, opening export markets, and reducing bureaucratic red tape that discourages foreign business. Reichert highlighted that many South Africans abroad already run businesses, support local charities, and maintain strong ties to the country.

“If the country was safer and more economically viable, many would consider returning home,” she said. “Starting with job creation could even reduce crime. There’s so much potential if we connect the diaspora’s resources with opportunities inside South Africa.”

Challenges with Representation

Reichert also raised concerns about the lack of electoral recognition for South Africans abroad. Under the current system, their votes only count towards the national ballot and not the provincial-to-national ballot, effectively halving their representation in Parliament.

“We are not recognised as a constituency,” she said. “Our votes only contributed towards 200 of the 400 parliamentary seats last year. Official recognition as the ‘10th province’ would unlock more opportunities for investment, dialogue, and meaningful participation.”

Frustrations and Hopes for the Dialogue

While welcoming the launch of the National Dialogue, Reichert noted frustrations over transparency, slow progress, and time management in discussions.

“People expect the process to be neat and tidy, but it’s going to be messy. It’s not perfect, but it’s about citizens stepping up. If we’re unhappy with how it’s being run, we need to get involved and help drive it in the right direction,” she said.

Bridging Local and Global Voices

One criticism often levelled at South Africans abroad is that they are removed from the daily realities of poverty, unemployment, and social grants. Reichert acknowledged this gap but said her approach is centred on “educate, empower, and inspire.”

“When I visit home, I go into communities – from Mitchells Plain to Umlazi to Soweto – to engage directly with people. I then share that with South Africans abroad to help them better understand the lived realities on the ground. It’s about connecting those abroad who care deeply about issues like gender-based violence or education with local champions fighting those battles in South Africa.”

As nominations for the steering committee close in early September, Operation Watershed remains determined to secure a seat at the table.

“For me, this is about the long haul,” Reichert said. “I want to come home one day. Recognising South Africans abroad as the ‘10th province’ is not just symbolic – it’s about giving them a voice at the highest level to help shape the country’s future.”