"We think of GGA as a 'Do-Tank', rather than a traditional 'Think-Tank'," says Chris Maroleng, Good Governance Africa SADC's executive director. "It's a place where people can utilise the intellectual resources usually associated with a think tank, while also accessing many opportunities to take direct action to improve governance standards on the continent."

"We're delighted by all the South African celebrities taking the GGA pledge," Maroleng adds. "Their voices are influential in South African culture, and they have the power to let our people know that there is lot they can do to improve the state of society. When someone like Tim Modise or Khaya Sithole take the GGA pledge, people take notice."

The individuals and entities who have already pledged include: 
  • Tim Modise
  • Khaya Sithole
  • Sylvester Chauke
  • Lindi Sirame
  • Maya Fisher-French
  • Power FM
  • Metro FM
  • Business Day TV, and
  • eNCA.
The GGA community is supported by a new e-commerce website, which offers users a wide range of resources, information and action points. And action, according to Maroleng, is a key point of differentiation for this innovative African NGO.

"Improving governance standards is about making the essential framework of our society stronger so that there is an even playing field for all citizens, politicians and business people," says Maroleng.

"The stronger our civil society framework is, the fewer chances there are of anyone getting away with crime and corruption, at whatever level," adds Maroleng.

According to Maroleng, if citizens want African governance standards to improve, they need to move beyond getting angry on social media and toward getting busy in the real world.

"Real-world action is why the support of celebrities and influencers matters so much," he concludes. "They have the power to show ordinary citizens that getting involved in improving our society isn't nearly as far out of reach as they might suspect. We're confident that many other South Africans will follow the example our celebrities have set and will also take the GGA pledge."

Individuals are encouraged to click here to pledge their commitment to Good Governance Africa.

For more information, visit www.gga.org