Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, embark on a working visit to the Amampondo Kingdom at Enyandeni Royal Palace in Libode, Eastern Cape, for high-level discussions with King Ndamase on traditional leadership, service delivery, and rural development.
Background
The visit takes place under the theme “Traditional Leadership at the Centre of the Developmental Agenda and Social Cohesion through Cooperation with Government.” It is aimed at strengthening collaboration between government, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to address persistent challenges in the OR Tambo District, including unemployment, poverty, and inequality.
Mashatile also chairs the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Traditional Leadership, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which focuses on land ownership and tenure rights, rural socio-economic development, infrastructure investment, and nation-building initiatives.
Key Focus Areas of the Visit
- Service Delivery: Updates on access to water, electricity, roads, and agriculture support.
- Community Development: Addressing crime, drug abuse, and alcohol-related challenges.
- Economic Growth: Promoting tourism and investment to boost local economies.
- District Development Model: Reviewing progress on improving municipal service delivery.
Programme Highlights
- 09h00 – Meeting between Deputy President Mashatile and King Ndamase (Photo Opportunity).
- 10h00 – Stakeholder engagement on service delivery issues.
- 11h45 – Project site visit showcasing tourism infrastructure investment.
- 12h30 – Community feedback session.
- 14h00 – Media briefing.
Impact on the Community
- Strengthens cooperation between traditional leadership and government.
- Focuses on basic service delivery improvements in rural areas.
- Encourages investment and infrastructure development in Libode and surrounding communities.
- Addresses social challenges such as crime and substance abuse.
- Reinforces government’s commitment to the District Development Model for stronger municipalities.
