Pretoria:The Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, has underscored the crucial role of traditional leaders in addressing Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

According to South African Government News Agency, Letsike highlighted in her speech to the Forum of South African Majesties that traditional leaders, as cultural custodians, can challenge detrimental cultural and patriarchal norms that sustain GBVF. She urged them to advocate for positive parenting and the protection of women, girls, and persons with disabilities while enhancing community-based systems for prevention, reporting, and support, in alignment with the Government's GBVF National Strategic Plan.

In her presentation, Letsike noted that traditional leaders can utilize traditional councils and courts as hubs for justice, healing, and accountability. The Deputy Minister welcomed the constructive engagement with Their Majesties and reaffirmed the department's dedication to institutionalizing collaboration with the Forum of Majesties.

Additionally, the Office of the Deputy Minister congratulated the Forum of South Africa's Majesties on appointing new leadership. His Majesty King Mangaliso Ndamase has been named Chairperson, and Her Majesty Queen Modjadji VII has made history as the first Queen to serve in the Forum's leadership as Deputy Chairperson.

This leadership change follows the passing of the Forum's first Chairperson, King Makhosoke II Mabena. King Ndamase, previously the inaugural Deputy Chairperson, has now been appointed Chairperson, ensuring both continuity and transformation.

The Deputy Minister praised the Forum's leadership transition, expressing her eagerness to work with King Ndamase and Queen Modjadji VII to advance the rights, dignity, and safety of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in traditional communities.