Minister warns against sidelining traditional leaders

Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has called on government departments and development partners to respect the authority of traditional leaders when implementing programmes in local communities.

Speaking to stakeholders in Gwanda, Minister Nguluvhe expressed concern over chiefs and headmen being sidelined during project rollouts.

"It's concerning to see that some of you are going into communities to implement various programmes without the knowledge of traditional leaders in those areas. As development partners, please ensure that you observe and respect the authority of traditional leaders," he said.

He emphasised that no development initiative should be carried out in any community without the involvement of local traditional leadership.

"As we implement our programmes, let us also respect the indigenous laws and regulations of the areas in which we operate. When we undertake development initiatives such as drilling boreholes or maintaining roads, we must ensure that chiefs also benefit from these projects," Minister Nguluvhe said.

The Minister highlighted the critical role traditional leaders play in preserving customs, promoting behaviour change, and advancing development agendas. He urged ministries and development partners to collaborate with chiefs in awareness campaigns to ensure better community participation and adoption of developmental initiatives.

Minister Nguluvhe also called for transparency, accountability, and integrity in programme implementation, warning against corruption and greed. He added that inclusive development strategies and maximum utilisation of the province's resources would improve livelihoods in line with Vision 2030.