The Nelson Mandela Bay Civil Society Coalition (NMBCSC) today, 28 January 2026, marked a historic milestone with the signing of a Social Compact by the constituencies represented within the coalition. The compact formally strengthens collective action across civil society, uniting diverse social partners around a shared rallying call: Working Together to Get the Bay Working.
The Social Compact affirms a shared commitment by civil society to act in the best interests of local communities, the local economy and residents of Nelson Mandela Bay, while remaining firmly non-partisan and independent of party-political agendas.
The NMBCSC brings together a broad and diverse cross-section of society, including non-profit organisations, faith-based institutions and churches, organised business, labour formations, civic structures, youth, traditional leaders, women formation, education forum, safety structures, eminent persons and senior citizens of the City. United by common values, the coalition serves as a platform for collaboration, accountability and ethical leadership aimed at advancing sustainable development in the metro.
Commenting on the signing, NMBCSC Chairperson Monga Peter said the Social Compact represents a decisive step forward for civil society in Nelson Mandela Bay.
“Today’s signing is more than a symbolic gesture. It is a clear declaration that civil society in Nelson Mandela Bay is organised, united and committed to playing a constructive role in shaping the future of our metro,” said Peter.
He stressed that civil society would not waver in the face of ongoing risks confronting the city. “This year, civil society will not relent while Nelson Mandela Bay is at risk. We will continue to demand accountability, insist on transparency and champion the restoration of a stable, functional and prosperous metro. Through unity, positivity and collective action, we remain committed to rebuilding our city, restoring hope and ensuring that basics are fixed and environment is conducive for growth and development of our City.”
Peter emphasised that the coalition’s strength lies in its diversity and independence. “We are a non-partisan collective, rooted in our communities and accountable to the people we serve. Our mandate is to act in the greater good, to promote ethical leadership and to contribute meaningfully to sustainable economic and social development.”
Looking ahead, he said the Social Compact provides a stronger foundation for coordinated action and learning. The coalition will deepen collaborative engagement with the Johannesburg Crisis Alliance, recognising shared challenges and opportunities in making cities work better for their residents. In addition, the NMBCSC aims to solidify new workstreams focused on governance, transformation and service delivery.
Peter added that the coalition would strengthen its presence at community level. “We will convene constituency-based reporting meetings across the metro and extend our work into critical areas such as climate, health, education and social development, ensuring that civil society remains responsive, grounded and impactful.”
He concluded that the signing of the Social Compact marks the beginning of a renewed phase of collaboration, accountability and action, anchored in the shared values and collective responsibility of civil society in Nelson Mandela Bay.
