KZN Premier Thami Ntuli.
Image: Independent Newspapers Archives
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has called on municipalities to work together with traditional leaders and harness their power to achieve common objectives.
Ntuli was speaking at the municipal excellence awards on Tuesday night.
“As we stand at the threshold of a new era, we recognise the vital role traditional leadership plays in our governance structures. By embracing this legacy, we can foster inclusivity, diversity, and a sense of belonging among our communities. Traditional leaders embody valuable qualities – influence, vision, and the ability to shape the course of action. They provide stability and direction, especially during times of uncertainty,” said Ntuli.
The premier stated that his administration is committed to forging a new path, one built on mutual respect and prosperity.
“My track record of collaboration with traditional leaders speaks for itself, and I'm proud to say that the MEC for Cogta shares this vision. Together, let us harness the power of traditional leadership to achieve common objectives, promote community cohesion, and inspire a sense of pride, loyalty, and patriotism.
“In our collective fight against crime, social ills, and pandemics, let us stand united – municipalities and traditional leaders as one. By embracing traditional leadership and inclusive governance, we can kindle new hope, build trust, and strengthen the bonds of solidarity. Let us strive towards a future where our communities thrive, self-reliant and proud, guided by the wisdom of our traditional leaders and the vision of uMntwana waka-Phindangene (the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
“uMntwana waka-Phindangene had a vision of a KwaZulu-Natal that was self-reliant, a South Africa that was self-reliant, with our traditional and municipal leaders serving communities with distinction and pride. I long for the day when this vision of self-reliance is not only a vision we hold dear but one we fulfil,” he said.