The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs continued to support the Traditional Leadership Institution in the province by handing over two vehicles to Inkosi Mahlobo of Mahlobo Traditional Council and Inkosi Yende of Ogenyaneni Traditional Council.

The vehicles serve as tools of trade to Traditional Councils aimed at assisting them serve their communities in their traditional authorities. The department has previously handed over vehicles to other 59 Traditional Councils.

The vehicles were handed over at the Mahlobo Tribal Council as they were celebrating their inaugural Ummemo/Cultural function. The event was attended by COGTA MEC, Mr Simon Skhosana, Chairperson of the Mpumalanga House of Traditional Leaders, Kgoshi Mathibela, Traditional Leaders, Gert Sibande District Executive Mayor, Cllr Meshack Nhlabathi, government officials and local residents.

During his address MEC Simon Skhosana reminded all those who were present the importance of traditional leadership in restoring cultural values and respect among communities.

“We are handing over these vehicles to you today as a commitment towards ensuring our support to the Traditional Leadership in our province. Traditional Leaders played a crucial role even during our struggle for liberation in South Africa” said Skhosana.

Izinkosi Mahlobo and Yende expressed gratitude to the Provincial Government, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the Gert Sibande District Municipality for the vehicles and ongoing support to them.