President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed a groundbreaking partnership between the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the National School of Government (NSG), aimed at providing essential training for traditional leaders in South Africa. The initiative focuses on fostering socio-economic development within traditional communities, with the goal of empowering leaders to catalyze positive change and sustainable economic interventions in rural areas.
Speaking at the annual official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL), President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of capacity building among traditional leaders to enhance their pivotal role in driving development. The event took place at the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chamber in Cape Town, underscoring the importance of the partnership in advancing rural development agendas.
The collaborative effort introduces the “Art of Facilitating Socio-Economic Development for Traditional Leaders Programme,” a comprehensive initiative offered by the NSG at no cost to public servants. Designed to professionalize the public sector and elevate performance across government spheres, the program equips traditional leaders with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to spearhead economic transformation and job creation within their communities.
President Ramaphosa articulated that the ultimate objective is to cultivate an active rural citizenry with traditional leaders as catalysts for progress. By leveraging local natural resources in an environmentally sustainable manner, the program seeks to empower leaders to identify economic opportunities, create wealth, and foster inclusive growth. Through collaborative engagement with various stakeholders, including community volunteers, government officials, and community development workers, traditional leaders are poised to drive socio-economic empowerment from the grassroots level.
The curriculum of the program aligns with constitutional mandates, legislative frameworks, and the National Development Plan (NDP), emphasizing the socio-economic rights of marginalized communities. Traditional leaders are encouraged to champion good governance, wealth creation, and participatory decision-making processes within their jurisdictions. Embracing Ubuntu and Afro-centric principles, leaders are equipped to navigate complex community dynamics and foster inclusive development practices.
Moreover, the initiative extends beyond theoretical instruction to practical mentorship, enabling traditional leaders to support and empower communities in sustainable development activities. By raising awareness of constitutional rights and government obligations, leaders play a pivotal role in ensuring equitable access to services and resources.
In light of the upcoming National and Provincial Elections on May 29, 2024, President Ramaphosa urged traditional leaders to mobilize eligible voters and uphold democratic principles. Emphasizing the importance of free and fair campaigning, he called upon leaders to facilitate an environment conducive to voter participation and civic engagement.
In conclusion, the partnership between the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the National School of Government signifies a significant step towards empowering traditional leaders as drivers of socio-economic development in South Africa. Through tailored training programs and collaborative initiatives, traditional leaders are poised to enact meaningful change, promote inclusive growth, and foster vibrant rural communities across the nation.
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