uLundi, 28 June 2025 – In line with his commitment to fostering increased financial and economic independence within the institution of traditional leadership, the KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, yesterday conducted the Amakhosi Local Economic Development Support Programme in the Ilembe District.
This initiative involved the distribution of essential equipment designed to enable Amakhosi and their families to contribute to economic development within their communities.
A total of 35 Amakhosi from across the Ilembe District received support.
The district comprises the Mandeni, KwaDukuza, Ndwedwe, and Maphumulo Municipalities.
Each Inkosi was provided with a mobile fridge, a 200-seater A-frame tent, and 100 chairs. This equipment will assist them in providing certain services within their communities and during government events, which in turn aims to cultivate a greater sense of financial autonomy for Amakhosi and their households.
As a further component of this programme, MEC Buthelezi also presented catering equipment to each wife (Ndlunkulu) of Amakhosi. This equipment included a variety of pots, a 3-plate industrial gas stove, serving dishes, and plates.
Through the provision of these resources, the programme aims to support the financial independence of Amakhosi and their families.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, which took in Msunduzi sports field in Mandeni, Ward 18, MEC Buthelezi reiterated his commitment to seeing Amakhosi across the province play a leading role in rural development as key figures within their respective communities.
He emphasised the importance of traditional leaders being actively involved in local economic initiatives.
Inkosi Sifiso Shinga, the Chairperson of the KZN Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, expressed appreciation on behalf of
Amakhosi in the province.
He acknowledged MEC Buthelezi for his ongoing support for the institution of traditional leadership and the communities led by Amakhosi. “We have observed your dedication, Shenge, you consistently follow through on your commitments,” said Inkosi Shinga. “We were with you last year December when you conducted this programme in Mkhanyakude, and today, you have returned to this District as you indicated you would. As Amakhosi, we are grateful for the continued support you provide to this institution.”
Inkosi Nkosikhona Bengu, Chairperson of the Ilembe Local House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders and one of the beneficiaries, added, “This support from MEC Buthelezi is a game-changer for us. It gives us tangible tools to serve our communities more effectively and pursue local economic opportunities, directly uplifting the lives of our people.”
Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs