Rural communities in Tshwane continue to face challenges such as unemployment, land invasion, and disputes over funding allocations for traditional councils. 

These issues were highlighted during a meeting between the Tshwane Mayoral Committee, the Gauteng Department of Cooperative Governance, and traditional councils and leaders, where they explored ways to enhance their collaboration and cooperation.

The meeting brought together the traditional houses of Amandebele ka Ndzundza in Sokhulumi, led by Inkosi Petrus Mahlangu, and AmaNdebele Ba Lebelo in Majaneng under Kgosi KC Kekana. 

Executive Mayor Nasiphi Moya said the traditional councils used the opportunity to raise key concerns, including unemployment, land invasion, and funding allocations.

She said: “We believe that when properly integrated into municipal planning and decision-making, traditional leadership structures enhance accountability, responsiveness, and legitimacy at the local level.”

She said Tshwane has set ambitious targets for economic growth, spatial transformation, and social inclusion, with a key focus on expanding and accelerating agricultural output as part of its vision.

“The vast rural land within our municipal boundaries can support food security, job creation, and small-scale enterprise. For this vision to succeed, we must work together with the custodians of that land,” she said.

She commented that while the provincial government is responsible for traditional councils, the City of Tshwane has initiated efforts to formalise its relationship with the two traditional councils through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

She explained that the MOU will provide a structured framework for the City’s relations with traditional communities, while acknowledging and respecting their mandate and powers.

“Once finalised, the MOU will be taken to Tshwane Council for adoption. While we await this process, and the formation of a community trust, there’s work that we believe can be done in these rural communities to advance development, in partnership with the private sector,” Moya said.

She mentioned that the City is finalising Tshwane’s Rural Development Strategy to support its economic growth target of 3.9%.

“As part of pursuing this Rural Development Strategy, traditional leadership is a key stakeholder for consultation on the drafting of this strategy and its subsequent implementation,” she said.

Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise characterised the meeting with traditional councils as a dynamic sharing of wisdom and leadership during the courtesy visit to Inkosi MP Mahlangu of the Amandebele ka Ndzundza Traditional Council, accompanied by Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Jacob Mamabolo. 

He noted that crucial issues, including demarcation, water, and title deeds, were discussed and will receive the necessary attention.

“Honouring traditional leadership is not only our responsibility, it is the foundation of strong, inclusive governance,” he said.

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za

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