KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Nomusa Dube-Ncube has thanked amakhosi in the province for the crucial role they play in providing leadership and guidance to millions of people within KZN’s traditional areas.
The MEC met with amakhosi in Durban today where deliberations were made on pertinent issues affecting the institution of traditional leadership within the province. Key amongst these were the financial pressures felt in the department by the obligation of remunerating izinduna.
“Currently, 95% of R572-million allocated to Cogta’s Traditional Affairs Branch goes towards paying salaries for izinduna, Secretaries of Traditional Councils and employees that support amakhosi. The bulk, which is over R300- million, goes towards izinduna,” said Dube-Ncube.
“The remaining monies are utilised to support the various TC’s in the many districts across the province. This means that there are limited resources that government has at its disposal to support the institution of traditional leadership within the province,” continued Dube-Ncube.
Other issues that were raised by amakhosi were in relation to the medical aid, which is an issue that government has been proactive in pursuing and currently amakhosi are able to join the Government Employees’ Medical Scheme (GEMS).
Dube-Ncube further commended amakhosi within the province for the significant role they play as facilitators of development in their communities. “We take great pride in the hard work done by amakhosi, as custodians of all our traditions and customs,” said Dube-Ncube.
For more information contact: KZN Cogta spokespersons Lennox Mabaso, 082 884 2403; or Msawakhe Mayisela, 060 966 4220
Date: 19 September 2018
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