Joint operation to empower amaKhosi

IN a bid to equip traditional leaders to adapt to the dynamic demands of leadership, two entities have joined forces to offer a Leadership and Governance programme.

The KZN Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to pave the way for amaKhosi to enrol in the specialised NQF level 6 course.

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Cogta MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi hailed the initiative a historic step in ensuring the institution of traditional leadership remains at the forefront of societal developments.

“UKZN’s unmatched expertise, combined with the department’s resolute support creates a partnership of unparalleled strength. Together, we are ensuring traditional leadership remains not just relevant but thriving in a world that is constantly changing,” he said.

Buthelezi emphasised his department’s commitment to working with amaKhosi to ensure their communities ultimately benefit from such programmes.

“We are dedicated to equipping amaKhosi for their demanding leadership roles, ensuring their communities reap the rewards of this advanced training,” he said.

“The programme goes beyond academic instruction; it integrates African philosophies and global governance principles to empower leaders with a comprehensive understanding of their roles. Enrolling in this programme will enable traditional leaders to gain the tools to interpret legislative frameworks like the recently passed Traditional Courts Bill,” said Buthelezi.

Positive change

Representing amaKhosi, Chairperson of the KZN Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Inkosi Rubert Shinga said the programme was a significant step in empowering amaKhosi to play a meaningful role in the transformation of the communities they govern.

“This programme is crucial in empowering our leaders to drive positive change and development within our communities,” said Shinga.

UKZN Dean, head of the School of Social Sciences and acting Dean of research, Professor VB Ojong said: “As Africa’s premier learning institution, this programme is a testament to our commitment to fostering leadership that is deeply rooted in African values while being informed by global best practices. We believe this initiative will not only enhance the leadership capabilities of amaKhosi, but will also contribute to the broader development goals of our society.” The programme is set to run for five years, with 50 amaKhosi enrolled each year. Buthelezi explained that the objectives of the programme are to ground traditional and elected leaders in a leadership programme that takes into account the African context, values and principles.

“It will also assist them to unlock learners’ potential and awaken their desire to grow as African leaders, and to introduce learners to the principles of general management, good governance and leadership within a prescribed legal framework.

“To expose participants to rural development theories and approaches, culture and community development, sustainable rural economic development, and further, to empower participants with insights into the sustainable management of natural resources and administrative functions envisaged in relevant legislation,” he said.

Buthelezi further added that this programme would assist all participants in imparting economic literacy skills necessary for meaningful participation in economic development activities implemented through local economic development in traditional communities.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen traditional leadership and governance, ensuring it remains robust and effective in addressing contemporary challenges”, he said.

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