ABOUT
US

Public accountability is a cornerstone of ethical citizenship, a value deeply cherished by us and at the heart of our mission.

Our areas of focus are: Governance & Ethics; Public Procurement; Economic Inclusion; and Justice & Equity.

WHY PUBLIC INTEREST SA?

Public Interest SA, formally registered as the Public Interest Project for Strategic Action, is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing constitutional democracy, ethical governance, accountability, transparency, and active citizenship in South Africa. Founded in 2008 under the leadership of Tebogo Khaas, the organisation was established on the belief that a prosperous, just, and inclusive society requires institutions that serve the public interest above private gain. Guided by the values enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, we work to strengthen democratic institutions, promote integrity in public and private life, and empower citizens to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of the country. At its core, the public interest is concerned with the collective welfare of society. It places the common good above narrow or sectional interests and seeks to ensure that public and private institutions act fairly, responsibly, and accountably. We exist to advance these principles through advocacy, public education, research, civic engagement, strategic interventions, and collaborative action. The organisation's name reflects both its purpose and approach: Public Interest signifies a commitment to protecting and advancing the rights, welfare, dignity, and interests of society as a whole. It reflects a belief that transparency, accountability, justice, and ethical conduct are essential foundations of a healthy democracy. Project for Strategic Action underscores a practical and solutions-oriented philosophy. Public Interest SA does not merely identify societal challenges; it seeks to address them through targeted initiatives, partnerships, policy engagement, public participation, and evidence-based interventions designed to achieve meaningful and lasting impact. **Public Interest SA** serves as both an abbreviation and an expression of the organisation's national focus. It reflects a commitment to addressing South Africa's unique opportunities and challenges, including governance reform, anti-corruption efforts, whistleblower protection, social justice, economic inclusion, digital transformation, human rights, and democratic accountability. Over the years, Public Interest SA has championed initiatives that promote ethical leadership, protect whistleblowers, strengthen public institutions, encourage civic participation, and foster a culture of accountability across society. The organisation believes that safeguarding the public interest is a shared responsibility requiring the active involvement of citizens, civil society, business, government, academia, and the media. Our vision is a South Africa in which ethical citizenship flourishes, institutions are accountable, and the public interest remains at the centre of decision-making. Our mission is to advance the public interest through strategic action that strengthens democracy, promotes integrity, protects constitutional values, and contributes to a more just, transparent, and inclusive society.

Our Mission

Public Interest SA exists to advance the public interest by promoting constitutional values, ethical leadership, accountable governance, transparency, integrity, and active citizenship.

We work collaboratively with citizens, civil society, government, business, academia, and the media to address complex economic, social, governance, technological, environmental, and public accountability challenges.

Through advocacy, research, public education, strategic interventions, and civic engagement, we seek to strengthen democratic institutions and contribute to a more just, inclusive, and prosperous South Africa.

We believe that informed and empowered citizens are indispensable to a healthy democracy.

Accordingly, we strive to create opportunities for meaningful public participation, strengthen oversight and accountability mechanisms, promote ethical conduct in both the public and private sectors, and ensure that those entrusted with power remain accountable to the people they serve.

Our Journey

Established in the spirit of South Africa's constitutional democracy, the organisation was created to advance the public interest through strategic action, principled advocacy, and civic engagement.

Since inception, we have grown into a respected independent voice on matters of governance, accountability, ethical leadership, public integrity, democratic participation, digital inclusion, and socio-economic development.

We have championed initiatives aimed at strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, protecting whistleblowers, advancing public sector innovation, and fostering a culture of ethical citizenship.

Over the years, we have worked with a diverse range of stakeholders across government, business, academia, organised labour, civil society, and international partners to advance solutions to some of South Africa's most pressing public-interest challenges.

Today, we continue to serve as a catalyst for positive change, guided by the conviction that accountable institutions, informed citizens, and ethical leadership are essential foundations for a just, democratic, and prosperous society.

OUR MISSION AND HISTORY

What We
Do

Our work involves advocating for public accountability, driving policy reforms, and creating platforms for open dialogue on issues of public interest especially corruption, governance, and ethical citizenship.

We believe in the power of public interest advocacy to drive systemic change for a more just and transparent society.

Let's make our democracy work!

Our mantra, "Let's make our democracy work!" encapsulates our commitment to fostering a participatory and accountable democracy. It reflects the belief that a thriving democracy is not merely the responsibility of government, but of every citizen, institution, and stakeholder. By encouraging active civic engagement, promoting transparency, and holding power to account, we aim to strengthen democratic governance, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and that the systems in place serve the public good. This mantra underscores our drive to create a just, ethical, and resilient society where democracy works for all.

At Public Interest SA, we believe in the power of collective action to drive meaningful change. Rooted in principles of transparency, accountability, and ethical citizenship, we advocate for a society where justice prevails, public institutions serve the common good, and every voice counts.

Our work is guided by an unwavering commitment to the following core values:

Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring that our actions are always aligned with the pursuit of justice and fairness for all.

Accountability: We demand accountability from those in positions of power and work tirelessly to hold individuals and institutions responsible for their actions.

Courage: In the face of adversity, we stand firm. We champion the voices of ethical citizens, activists, and marginalised communities, providing them with the support they need to confront corruption and injustice.

Collaboration: We believe that progress is made through partnerships. By working with civil society, government, and the private sector, we strive to foster a culture of transparency and good governance.

Social Justice: Our mission is to challenge systemic inequalities, ensuring that public interest is always placed above private gain.

Through our efforts, we aim to create a South Africa where ethical leadership, equitable governance, and human dignity are not just ideals, but realities.