The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa will attend the official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San leaders.

The official opening of the NHTKL marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s democratic journey and is a key feature of the annual parliamentary programme, reaffirming the role of traditional leadership in governance, democracy, and national development.

Established in 1997 by President Nelson Mandela under the National House of Traditional Leaders Act, the NHTKL has been key in representing traditional leadership and their communities at the national level. The institution now operates under the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019, reflecting its evolving role in South Africa’s democratic landscape.

As a strategic institution, the NHTKL plays a crucial role in ensuring that the voices of traditional leaders and communities are heard in shaping the policies and governance structures of the country.

The Minister’s attendance of the opening of the House emphasises COGTA’s recognition of the critical role traditional leaders play in promoting development and stability in rural communities. The Minister’s participation also highlights COGTA’s dedication to providing the necessary support, resources, and capacity-building initiatives that empower traditional leaders to fulfill their responsibilities effectively and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.

The Minister will be joined by the Deputy Ministers of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe and Dr Namane Dickson Masemola. Also expected to be in attendance are Cabinet Ministers and Deputy Ministers; Premiers; MECs responsible for Traditional Affairs; Kings; Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons of Provincial Houses; CONTRALESA; ROLESA; Business Sector; Religious Sector; NGOs and Representatives from amongst others, SADC Countries; National Khoi-San Council as well as Chapter 9 Institutions.

Members of the media are invited to attend the opening of the House scheduled to take place as follows:

Date: 25 February 2025

Time: 11:00

Venue: Good Hope Chamber, Parliament, Cape Town

Ends –

For Media enquiries, kindly contact:

Ms. Pearl Maseko-Binqose

Media Liaison Officer for the Minister of CoGTA

+27 (82) 772 1709

Mr. Legadima Leso

COGTA Head of Communications

+27 (66) 479 9904

Issued by the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs