Mkhize advocates for human rights in communities

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Minister Zweli Mkhize has called for the protection of human rights within the traditional structures and communities during a dialogue with traditional leadership in Moletjie Moshate last Thursday.
The gathering follows nationwide celebrations to mark Human Rights Day on 21 March under the theme ‘The year of indigenous languages: Promoting and deepening a human rights culture’. While the dialogue with traditional leaders was part of human rights month commemoration observed under the theme ‘Not in my culture’. Mkhize clarified that the theme simply meant that there was no culturally based justification that people can make for violating human rights – particularly the rights of women and children in the society.
“Public dialogue and engagement is an integral part of our lives as Africans, hence it provided an opportunity for government to interact with and engage various sectors on issues of human rights. The day marked an affirmation by ordinary people who attended the dialogue that the rights of humans are important. The dialogue was also a commitment and a reminder of our rights and the price paid for our democracy and freedom,” said Mkhize.
From the discussions, the rights of vulnerable communities in rural areas came under the spotlight and Mkhize affirmed the importance of the traditional leadership sector as an integral part to the democracy. He stated that they expect the institution to continue in this role and be the guarantor and protector of human rights as well. Issues such as customary marriage, divorce, inheritance, land tenure and many others still reflect the lingering bias and oppression against women, he commended. Mkhize emphasised the need for traditional leadership to work hand in glove with government departments and authorities to identify and help the most vulnerable among their people.
Delegates spoke about the protection of young women from practices such as forced marriages. Mkhize urged traditional leaders to be a safety net for all vulnerable persons and groups. “The message of the day was clear, there are no cultural or traditional practices that should constitute violations of human rights and dignity, and all stakeholders agreed to work together towards achieving human rights for all,” he concluded
The session was also addressed by Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) MEC Jerry Ndou, chairperson of the National House of Traditional Leaders Sipho Mahlangu, chairperson of the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders Malesela Dikgale, Polokwane Executive Mayor Thembi Nkadimeng and Moletjie traditional leader Kgabo Moloto III.

Story & photos: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za