24 June 2025 – Dr. Thabo Makgoba, the Archbishop of Cape Town, today urged world leaders to pursue peace and called for prayers for leaders and communities affected by conflict. The Archbishop made these remarks at the Leadership Series, hosted by KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
The event, held in Ballito, provided young Amakhosi and mayors with the opportunity to gain insights from the Archbishop’s experience as a global leader who well acquinted with the demands of leadership in a changing world that is looking for ethical leadership.
The leadership series initiative is focused on capacity building for emerging leaders and had as attended Senior Managers from the Department of Cogta and provide attendees with a real life perspective on what it take to lead ethically in a fractured society.
In his keynote address, Archbishop Makgoba commended MEC Buthelezi for his leadership, which is God centred and people focused, the Archbishop stated of Buthelezi that “knowing God helps us to understand and play our role in the lives of the vulnerable.”
He encouraged young leaders to be guided by principles and values, emphasising that “being ethical leaders means living by principles and values that will guide you through an ever-evolving world.”
Referencing Ecclesiastes 3:1–8, Archbishop Makgoba reminded attendees that life unfolds in seasons and that leadership requires both wisdom and timing: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…” His message underscored the importance of integrity, spiritual depth, and compassionate leadership in service of vulnerable communities.
Addressing the situation in the Middle East, Archbishop Makgoba called for a cessation of hostilities. “Achieving lasting peace in the Middle East necessitates dialogue and a commitment to understanding,” he commented. “I call upon all involved parties to pursue reconciliation and work towards a just and sustainable peace that respects the rights of all individuals.”
MEC Buthelezi reiterated KZN Cogta’s commitment to developing effective leadership. “We appreciate Archbishop Makgoba for sharing his insights with our young Amakhosi, mayors and the management of the department,” said MEC Buthelezi. “His message of service and his call for peace align with the values we promote in our leaders. This series underscores our commitment to empowering communities through strong leadership.”
Ends