Amampondo kingdom: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has used his working visit to the AmaMpondo Kingdom to highlight government’s commitment to traditional leadership and community development. Mashatile emphasised the important role of traditional leaders in ‘promoting social cohesion’ and their authority in addressing developmental issues within their communities.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Deputy President was speaking at the Enyandeni Royal Palace, where he met His Majesty King Ndlovuyezwe Ndamase of the AmaMpondo aseNyandeni and local community leaders. In his opening remarks, Mashatile expressed gratitude for the warm reception. The visit was framed as part of a larger initiative to foster collaboration between government and traditional authorities.

Highlighting specific concerns raised by the community, the Deputy President pointed to several critical issues, including the need for improved infrastructure and services. These include access to water at the Royal Palace and
households within Nyandeni Municipality, upgrading of the gravel road to the Royal Palace to a tarred or paved road, and electricity-related matters.

The Deputy President called for active citizenry when communities try to resolve issues, urging transparency and collaboration. He also encouraged the Nyandeni Local Municipality to work closely with traditional leaders to ensure access to basic services, including managing water supply, supporting agricultural programmes, and upgrading roads.

Mashatile also addressed the ongoing challenge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), urging communal effort to combat these issues. He emphasized the importance of speaking out against GBV and fostering a safer environment for all through community involvement.

He highlighted the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019, which empowers these institutions to advise the government on community needs and hold it accountable. Mashatile reiterated the importance of accountability and assured the community that t
he discussions would not devolve into a ‘mere talk show’. The engagement wrapped up with a shared commitment to work towards addressing the highlighted issues.