A Traditional Leader, Mokgadi Sekgopo takes the oath of office.
The Limpopo Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs has reached a major milestone in strengthening rural governance. In a statement released on Wednesday, the department confirmed it is on track to conclude the swearing-in of 141 constituted Traditional Councils before the end of the current financial year.
The ambitious rollout began in the Capricorn District in October 2025. Since then, the process has moved steadily across the province. Officials are now focusing their final efforts on the Sekhukhune District to complete the provincial circuit.
MEC for CoGHSTA, Basikopo Makamu, welcomed the appointment of the new members. He described the process as a clear demonstration of the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the institution of traditional leadership. To date, 110 councils have already taken their oaths of office. The breakdown shows high activity across all regions, with 38 councils sworn in for Sekhukhune, 35 in Vhembe, 18 in Capricorn, 13 in Mopani, and 6 in Waterberg.
These council members do not just hold ceremonial roles. They are tasked with the critical administration of traditional and Khoi-San communities. Their duties are broad and essential for local stability. Members are expected to guide traditional leaders, support municipalities in identifying community needs, and facilitate the involvement of rural residents in municipal planning.
Crucially, these councils act as a bridge between ancient customs and modern governance. They are required to promote indigenous knowledge systems for disaster management and sustainable development. They also play a vital role in alerting municipalities to hazards or calamities within their jurisdictions. This cooperation is intended to ensure that service delivery reaches even the most remote corners of the province.
MEC Makamu emphasized the weight of the responsibility now resting on the shoulders of the new members. He noted that the swearing-in ceremony is more than a formality. He described it as a covenant made between the leaders and the people they serve.
“By taking the oath, you made a solemn promise to perform your duties faithfully and to the best of your ability,” the MEC stated. He urged all members to join hands with the government to work for the collective benefit of their communities.
The successful completion of this process comes at a vital time for the province. As Limpopo continues to navigate economic development and recovery from recent natural disasters, the role of local traditional councils in identifying needs and managing resources is seen as a priority.
The department remains confident that the remaining councils will be sworn in within the coming weeks. This will ensure that all 141 traditional bodies are fully legally constituted and ready to perform their statutory functions under the Constitution.
As these new leaders begin their terms, the focus now shifts to implementation. The provincial government has signalled that it will continue to provide the necessary administrative support to ensure these councils can deliver on their promises of service and development.
The Swearing-in of Members of Traditional Councils were presided over by Magistrates.
A member of the newly constituted Traditional Councils takes oath of office.
Members of Traditional Councils taking the oath of office.