Johannesburg: The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has called for stronger collaboration between traditional leaders and government to address the crisis of foodborne illnesses in communities. The Minister held a two-day interaction with the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL), which concluded on Sunday. Over 20 children have lost their lives in the last few weeks alone due to foodborne illnesses, with over 800 people having fallen ill.

According to South African Government News Agency, on Sunday, five-year-old Siyabonga Mnisi was laid to rest, after suspected poisoning linked to snacks purchased from a local spaza shop in Diepkloof, Soweto. Reports indicate that another eight-year-old child in the same township also died on Friday. Two weeks ago, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on government interventions to address foodborne illnesses.

This month, Hlabisa introduced a new Standard Draft By-Law for Township Economies. Thi
s by-law, issued under the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act of 2000, aims to create a supportive environment for small businesses in townships. Its goals are to promote economic inclusion, generate jobs and empower the community.

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) stated that Hlabisa urged traditional leaders to collaborate, especially guided by the recent classification of foodborne illnesses as a national disaster. The department, led by Hlabisa, held a two-day government engagement with the NHTKL. Hlabisa was joined by various Ministers, Deputy Ministers, the Chairperson of the NHTKL, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Forum of South Africa’s Majesties, and other traditional leaders from across the provinces.

Following discussions, Hlabisa outlined a way forward to enhance collaborative decision-making, cooperation, and coordination in the resolution of matters raised by traditional leaders. The two-day discussions promoted constructive dialogue on
matters related to traditional leadership and communities, and finding solutions to all issues of concern.

Various Ministers were invited to provide updates on their respective areas of responsibility and provided feedback on progress attained on issues raised. The reports were followed by discussions that sought to create mutual collaboration between government and traditional leaders to jointly address priority issues. Hlabisa emphasised the need for increased collaboration, cooperation and coordination among all stakeholders to ensure that the NHTKL can thrive and fulfill its mandate. He also highlighted government’s commitment to reinforcing partnerships with traditional leaders, recognising the crucial role they play in tackling rural challenges and enhancing service delivery.