The newly reappointed MEC of agriculture, rural development, land reform and environmental affairs in the Northern Cape, Mase Manopole, has challenged traditional leaders in the John Taolo Gaetsewe district in Kuruman to continue playing a pivotal role in encouraging various communities, especially young people, to preserve languages and culture.
Manopole visited the area and handed over 30 Bonsmara cattle to five principal traditional leaders in Kuruman.
According to the department, the gesture was part of the provincial government’s promise made by the premier, Dr Zamani Saul earlier this year.
Fostering relations
“In May 2024, Dr Saul committed that all senior traditional leaders elevated to principal traditional leadership status would receive six cattle each from the government to support their self-sustainability.
“During the first two phases of this elevation in May 2024, cattle were handed over to two principal traditional leaders, and MEC Manopole recently completed this process by handing over the remaining 30 Bonsmara cattle to five leaders,” the department said in a statement.
Manopole highlighted the importance of a good working relationship between the government and traditional leaders for positive outcomes.
The Northern Cape House of Traditional Leader chairperson, Kgosi Pelonomi Toto, acknowledged the challenge of a lack of grazing land but welcomed the government’s gesture.
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Toto said a harmonious relationship between them and the government fosters social cohesion, as it aligns traditional authority with national objectives. She said unity is crucial for addressing social issues such as poverty, health, and education collectively.
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