By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile highlighted efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Traditional Affairs to find alternative ways to safeguard traditional and Khoi-San leaders amid rising concerns over their killings.
The dialogue, held at Tshwane House in Pretoria on Friday, brought together government representatives and the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) to strengthen partnerships and tackle rural challenges.
SAPS and the Department of Traditional Affairs are diligently working to find alternative ways to protect traditional and Khoi-San leaders, said the deputy president.
He said that this includes the possibility of opening mobile client service centres to better reach rural communities that are located far from police stations.
He further added that the SAPS is implementing the traditional policing concept in four provinces, namely Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga.
Mashatile, speaking in his capacity as chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on matters raised by traditional leaders, emphasised the need for collaborative action to promote national unity, peace, and community cohesion.
The Deputy President believes that dialogue is essential for strengthening the government’s partnership with traditional leadership.
He said this relationship serves as a direct link between the government and local communities, particularly those in rural and communal areas.
The Deputy President said government cannot make decisions that affect the leaders and their people without their involvement.
He said traditional and Khoi-San leaders play an important role in establishing a capable and developing state.
“Your knowledge, expertise, and deep relationships with the communities make you invaluable collaborators in furthering our country’s development objectives.
“Your direction and leadership are critical to ensuring that government policies and programmes are effectively implemented and reach those who require them the most.”
He stressed that government wants traditional leaders to participate in integrated planning, programme delivery and service delivery initiatives meant to benefit traditional communities.
“Across all spheres of government, we must promote collaborative partnerships between government and traditional leaders.”
He believes that the traditional leaders play an important role in addressing societal issues in communities.
“Your influence and authority can help address issues such as sexual offences, gender-based violence, substance abuse, and crime in our communities.”