Church leaders, academics, civil society representatives and policy experts gathered in Cape Town on 9 September 2026 for the National Church Leaders' Consultation (NCLC), held under the theme “Strengthening Democracy, Good Governance and Accountability". Organised by the National Church Leaders’ Consultation (NCLC) in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation South Africa (KAS), the consultation created a platform for robust dialogue on South Africa's governance challenges and the role of faith communities in advancing democratic renewal.
Hosted at Cathedral Place in Cape Town, the gathering was welcomed by Archbishop Dr Sithembele Sipuka, Catholic Archbishop of Cape Town, who challenged church leaders to reflect on their prophetic responsibility in a time when public trust in institutions is under pressure. He emphasised that issues of democracy, accountability and good governance are not merely political concerns but deeply moral questions that affect the dignity, welfare and future of communities across the country.
In his welcome remarks, Archbishop Dr Sithembele Sipuka noted that churches have a crucial role to play in shaping values that promote ethical leadership and responsible citizenship. He encouraged participants to move beyond analysis towards practical proposals that can contribute to meaningful change in South African society.
Representing the Konrad Adenauer Foundation South Africa, Gregor Jaecke, Resident Representative, highlighted the importance of faith communities in strengthening democracy, social cohesion and civic participation. Drawing parallels between challenges facing societies across the world, he argued that democratic systems flourish when citizens, institutions and leaders are guided by ethical principles and a commitment to the common good. He noted that South Africa's faith communities have historically played an important role in shaping the country's democratic journey and continue to have a vital contribution to make in addressing current challenges such as corruption, inequality and social exclusion.
The discussions that followed reflected a shared concern about corruption, unemployment, inequality and declining public trust in institutions, but also a strong commitment to finding practical solutions. Participants emphasised the need for churches to provide moral leadership, strengthen civic engagement and contribute to building a more just, accountable and inclusive society
A key outcome of the consultation was the proposal to establish a multi-denominational working group to develop a shared vision and concrete recommendations for future action. The consultation reaffirmed the important role that faith communities can play in strengthening South Africa's democracy and advancing the common good.
The National Church Leaders’ Consultation forms part of an ongoing dialogue between church leaders and partners committed to promoting good governance, democratic accountability and social justice in South Africa.
