Windhoek: Namibia’s traditional authorities (TAs) have been encouraged to learn from South Africa’s successful model of integrating traditional leadership into national development and economic empowerment. This was the core message delivered by Jamie-Lee Nels, CEO of Oonani Investment Group, during her presentation to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Urban and Rural Development and Land Reform.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Nels, alongside Chief Immanuel Gaseb, the chairperson of the Council of Traditional Authorities, updated the committee on their recent learning visit to South Africa. The visit focused on understanding how South African traditional communities, such as the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela and Royal Bafokeng Nation, have transformed communal resources into sustainable, community-owned enterprises.
Nels emphasized that South Africa’s experience demonstrates the potential for traditional leadership to drive economic transformation when they are properly recognized, empowered, and integrated within national governance structures. She highlighted the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela Traditional Authority in the North West Province as an exemplary model, showcasing how community-based land management and corporate governance can yield significant economic benefits.
The authority oversees various multi-million-rand ventures that include the Moruleng Mall, tourism establishments, and stakes in mining, manufacturing, food production, and cattle ranching. These ventures directly benefit the local community, providing a blueprint for economic empowerment through traditional leadership.
Nels proposed that Namibia could adopt a similar approach by developing legal and financial frameworks to empower traditional leaders. This would enable them to manage resources transparently and engage in business ventures aimed at community upliftment, thereby reducing dependency on government and promoting self-reliance.
Additionally, Nels recommended the creation of a national advisory body akin to South Africa’s National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. This body would formalize the role of traditional authorities in governance and ensure structured partnerships with the government and private sector.
The Oonani Investment Group functions as the business arm of the Namibian Traditional Authorities Trust, an organization dedicated to supporting traditional leaders and their communities across Namibia. Nels concluded by asserting that strengthening collaboration and ensuring accountability could position Namibia’s traditional authorities as key drivers of inclusive economic growth.