The Congress of Traditional Leaders (CONTRALESA) in KwaZulu-Natal has raised concerns about the processes followed in the allocation of tools of trade to Amakhosi by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta).
The concerns follow Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi’s decision to purchase SUVs for several AmaKhosi, while others say they still do not have vehicles.
CONTRALESA says the reason provided for the allocation, that it is reserved for those serving as chairpersons and deputy chairpersons in the provincial and local houses, is inadequate.
CONTRALESA KZN Provincial Organiser Phakamani Dlamini says every gazetted Inkosi should receive a standard vehicle suitable for rural use.
Dlamini says, “The communication relayed to Amakhosi is that allocation is reserved for those serving as chairperson and deputy chairperson in the provincial house and local houses. But as CONTRALESA, we believe that the allocation cannot be left to the MEC or tied to internal house positions alone. It must be a government formula approved by the provincial legislature and the portfolio committee.”
Cogta allocated vehicles to 30 Traditional Councils led by Amakhosi, as part of an annual programme that will see vehicles allocated to Traditional Councils every financial year until all Amakhosi are covered in the province.
The initiative follows KZN COGTA’s initiative, where, for the first time, all Amakhosi in KZN are now covered under medical insurance – an initiative that has ensured access to Healthcare facilities and restored the dignity of Amakhosi.
PODCAST | Traditional leaders in KZN raise concerns about the allocation of tools of trade:
