M.A. / The central problem this research addresses is to establish if the Presidential Public Participation Programme (izimbizo/imbizo) constitutes a form of participatory policy analysis and policy evaluation as proposed in the general policy literature. The izimbizo programme is uniquely suited to meet the requirements of the (South) African context. Post-positivism provides a different approach through policy analysis, especially in relation to valuative and normative approaches. The research is furthermore applied, as it seeks to improve the application and existing practice around organising the izimbizo. The research proposes the extension of the use of the programme beyond that of merely a communication tool, into the realm of the policy process. The objectives of this dissertation were to provide an overview of the concept of izimbizo as a deliberative approach to policy making, focusing particularly on the evaluation process. The research systematically explores how the izimbizo is operationalised. It provides an overview of the international trends and international examples of successful participatory methods. Consideration is given as to how information at different stages of the policy cycle may be used for improving policy making. The research further explores existing research on public participation as well as the theory regarding deliberative approaches as a more recent mechanism for policy analysis in a democratic milieu. The benefits as well as limitations to using the izimbizo as a deliberative approach in the policy process as well as in policy monitoring and evaluation in general are explored. The study also provided a strong case for developing a clear social contract through the use of participatory programmes such as the izimbizo in order to develop citizenship and to create a positive role for sophisticated accountability.