Mpumalanga Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has provided a new vehicle to traditional leaders to improve their work and service delivery. Credits: Mpumalanga CoGHSTA
By Duncan Mnisi
Mpumalanga – The Mpumalanga Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has handed over a new vehicle to Inkosi Themba Yende of the Ogenyani Traditional Council in Mkhondo.
Yende, who also serves as Deputy Chairperson of the Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (HTKL), received the vehicle as part of government efforts to ease transportation challenges for traditional leaders, particularly in rural areas.
During the recent 2025/26 Policy and Budget Vote, the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) announced an allocation of over R250 million for Traditional Leaders and R30 million for the House of Traditional Leaders.
MEC Speed Mashilo explained that the vehicle was more than a symbolic gesture.
“It’s a tool to help traditional leaders connect better with their people,” he said, emphasizing government’s commitment to supporting leaders like Inkosi Yende in their community duties and cultural events.
Expressing his gratitude, Yende remarked: “Mpumalanga is the best province for supporting traditional leaders.”
He welcomed the provision of resources that enable leaders to serve effectively.
Government also announced restructuring measures under the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, recognizing five traditional councils and updating leadership roles.
The initiative further includes plans to modernize offices of traditional councils, with new facilities to be built in areas such as Esetleni and Enikwayungwenga.
A perimeter wall will also be erected around King Makhoske II’s royal residence.
These projects, according to the department, aim to strengthen traditional leadership and enhance service delivery in rural communities.
