President Cyril Ramaphosa opened the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders on Tuesday, seeking to strengthen the role and recognition of traditional leaders in South Africa.
The National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders is a newly established institution that was inaugurated by President Ramaphosa in 2017. It serves as a platform for traditional and Khoisan leaders to engage with government on matters that are of importance to their communities.
During his speech, President Ramaphosa highlighted the crucial role that traditional leaders play in the development of South Africa. He emphasized that traditional leaders are not only custodians of culture and traditions, but they also play a significant role in promoting social cohesion and maintaining peace and stability in their communities.
The President acknowledged the challenges faced by traditional leaders, such as limited resources and recognition, and assured them that his government will work towards addressing these issues. He also encouraged traditional leaders to embrace and adapt to the changing times while still preserving their rich cultural heritage.
President Ramaphosa also stressed the importance of including the Khoisan leaders in the House, acknowledging their historical and cultural significance in the country. He stated that the Khoisan community has been marginalized and overlooked for far too long, and it is time for them to be recognized and given a voice in national affairs.
The President further emphasized that the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders is not just a symbolic institution, but it is a crucial part of the country’s governance system. He urged traditional leaders to use this platform to engage with government and make meaningful contributions towards the development of their communities.
In addition to the opening of the National House, President Ramaphosa also announced the launch of the Traditional and Khoisan Leadership Bill, which aims to address issues of governance and accountability within the traditional leadership structure. He stated that this bill will ensure that traditional leaders are held accountable for their actions and are transparent in their leadership.
The President also recognized the vital role that traditional leaders play in land administration and acknowledged the need for clear and transparent guidelines in this regard. He assured traditional leaders that his government is committed to working towards resolving the land issue and ensuring fair and equitable redistribution.
The opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders was met with great enthusiasm and support from the traditional leaders in attendance. They welcomed the opportunity to engage with government and play a more significant role in shaping the future of their communities.
In conclusion, President Ramaphosa’s opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders sends a strong message of commitment and recognition to the traditional leaders of South Africa. It is a step towards building a more inclusive and united society, where the voices and contributions of all communities are valued and heard. This institution will undoubtedly play a crucial role in promoting the development and well-being of traditional and Khoisan communities and strengthening their relationships with the government.
