There is a need to establish good relationships between traditional leaders, politicians and all progressive community structures, for the sake of good governance, said a prominent Limpopo traditional leader, Vhamusanda Vho-Mafenya Mphaphuli of Malavuwe.

He was the speaker during a campaign to consolidate his village’s traditional leadership. The campaign was further cemented by the coronation of Frank Tovhowani Mabila, the village’s 10th sub-headman, on Saturday.

“Leadership is about sharing ideas, collective, informed decision making and good governance. As a traditional leader, I need extended hands to assist me in carrying out my duties with distinction, fairness and dignity. We will continue to promote traditional leadership because it is our cultural practice which needs to be preserved,” said Mafenya during the coronation.

He added that the coronation came after Muramba, a subsidiary of Malavuwe Village, hads been without a sub-headman for the past 12 years. “Frank Tovhowani Mabila’s father, Petrus, died in 1994 and we are only returning the position to its rightful owner. The Mabila family followed the traditional procedure and introduced Tovhowani to us and our job is only to introduce him to his subjects.”

Mafenya urged the new traditional leader to cooperate with different community structures to ensure development in his subsidiary village. “Development is about cooperation and participatory decision making. We are giving you powers to lead your people, but we are not saying that you must be a dictator. Respect your subjects and they will in return bestow you with the respect you deserve. Treat your subjects with love and equality and never discriminate against them because they now look upon you for protection.”

The new name for the installed sub-headman is Farisanani. His assistant, Morris Mabila, was renamed Konanani and his Vhomakhadzi, Azwiengedzwi Mabila, was renamed Tanganani. Tshikona, Tshigombela and Malende dances added traditional flavor to the coronation, which was attended by hundreds community of members.