Participation of traditional leaders in economic development planning in Maphumulo Municipality

Abstract

Constitutional and legislative requirements require traditional leaders to be involved in local economic development initiatives. However, there is a growing belief that traditional leadership institutions are not included in government attempts for Local economic development (LED). In most cases, a gap still exists and availing progress reports to the public. The study sought to examine the role and potential influence of traditional leaders in the economic development planning of their local areas to boost rural areas' economies. The study used an exploratory research design to ascertain the level of involvement by the national, provincial, and local governments of traditional leadership in economic development planning for their areas. The design was informed by qualitative methodology, where the researcher interviewed Chiefs and 20 elected community members in the Maphumulo area. This area was chosen because it was easily accessible to the researcher. Data were analyzed by applying qualitative thematic content analysis. The study is envisaged to promote local development by involving traditional institutions in local government planning and budgeting within the Maphumulo area. The findings show that traditional leaders play an advisory role in the municipality and that local LED engagement is made possible by these leaders' participation in these policies. The results highlight the variety of parties participating in LED, including councillors, ward committees, NGOs, government agencies, municipalities, residents, and traditional and religious leaders. The outcomes show that LED participative tactics have a limited amount of effectiveness. Participants lamented corruption and the municipality's delayed reaction. The study also demonstrated the need for institutionalized LED responses that include all relevant parties. Most participants believed the municipality had the key to collaborating with the necessary regional forces to promote LED.