Former EFF MP Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has launched a non-partisan civil society initiative called the Batho Pele Convention, which aims to empower communities to become more self-sufficient and less dependent on government. The initiative seeks to build a grassroots social movement outside party politics, focusing on practical solutions to local problems. Ndlozi emphasized that the movement is not affiliated with any political party and will not be used as a platform for party politics.
Ndlozi identified South Africa's problems as extending beyond the economy to a weakened state and fragmented political system. He argued that the country's economy is not broken but rather designed to be exclusionary. However, the state has been weakened by corruption, and the party-political system has failed to address this issue. The Batho Pele Convention aims to address these challenges by promoting self-sufficiency and community-led solutions.
The Batho Pele Convention will initially pilot an alumni programme in Soweto, where former pupils will contribute to projects improving public school infrastructure, including classrooms, toilets, windows, and furniture. Ndlozi stated that the model could later be expanded to other parts of the country. The initiative aims to encourage professionals to give back to their communities and take responsibility for improving public services.
Ndlozi emphasized that the initiative is not meant to replace the state but to ensure communities are not left helpless when government services fail. He argued that self-sufficient communities are better equipped to address local challenges and are less vulnerable to abuse. The Batho Pele Convention aims to restore the practice of self-sufficiency and promote community-led solutions to local problems.
The initiative has rejected suggestions that it could become a new political party, with Ndlozi stating that he has deliberately moved away from party politics to focus on civil society. He emphasized that the focus is on rebuilding civil society, which has weakened in the African community. Ndlozi believes that the majority of resources, energy, and talents are needed in the civil society space.
Ndlozi outlined the potential for the programme to support a range of projects, from science laboratories to school sports. He stated that as the initiative grows, it may be able to fund sporting codes permanently and develop talent. The Batho Pele Convention aims to make a positive impact on communities and promote self-sufficiency.
The launch of the Batho Pele Convention comes at a time when South Africa is facing various challenges, including a power crisis in Tshwane and concerns about police misconduct. The initiative aims to provide a platform for communities to take action and address local challenges. Ndlozi's efforts to empower communities and promote self-sufficiency may have a positive impact on the country's development.
Key points
- Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi's Batho Pele Convention aims to empower communities to become more self-sufficient and less dependent on government.
- The initiative will initially pilot an alumni programme in Soweto to improve public school infrastructure.
- Ndlozi has emphasized that the movement is non-partisan and not meant to replace the state.
