President of Xiluva, Bongani Baloyi, on Wednesday visited the Bakoena Royal House in the Free State province to formally introduce the Party to King Mopedi.
Since the formation of Xiluva, Baloyi has been hard at work looking for ways to increase the status and influence of traditional leaders nationwide.
His meeting with King Mopedi was set to discuss ways to strengthen South Africa’s governance system in a way that promotes the role of traditional leaders and emphasizes their importance in shaping local communities, the leader of Xiluva explained.
RELATED STORY: David Mabuza reaffirms pivotal role of traditional leaders.
According to Baloyi, the efforts to engage with traditional leaders highlight the need to preserve and promote traditional leadership as an important part of South Africa’s cultural heritage.
Following his visit to the Bakoena Royal House, he said, “The King understands that they are regarded as custodians of Ubuntu and wished us well.”
Baloyi has on many occasions stated that he values traditional leaders’ contribution in society, raised the need for them to be part of the government structure “in a meaningful way” and not lose their relevance.
He has warned that the Institution of Amakhosi is facing an existential crisis under the current system.
“They are increasingly becoming irrelevant and remain without any economic value. I would urge them to think about their role in our country.
“Notwithstanding the obvious fact that they have rendered redundant since 1910. Their silence as their people are plunged in economic crisis and the erosion of our value system, Ubuntu, is making them complicit.
“As Xiluva we see the Institution of Amakhosi as a vital part of the future of our Country.” Baloyi said.
