Traditional leaders have been urged to play an active role in driving socio-economic development by helping communities tackle poverty, drought and food insecurity.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's message was delivered at the 27th Council of Traditional Leaders Annual Meeting in Otjiwarongo.

The Chairperson of the Council of Traditional Leaders, Immanuel |Gaseb has highlighted that for the families of Nehale and Niilenge, this is a homecoming marked by both relief and grief.

Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa is hopeful that the amendment of the Traditional Authorities and Council of Traditional Leaders Acts will address leadership disputes as well as mushrooming traditional authorities.

The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, has appealed to the Council of Traditional Authority Leaders not to allow traditional authorities in disputes to attend the annual gathering.

In the northern Kunene Region, over five Traditional Authorities have been seeking formal recognition from the government for more than 30 years.

The Council of Traditional Leaders in Namibia (CTLN) has applauded President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's approach to involve the voices of traditional authorities in the affairs of the country.

The leadership of Traditional Authorities has wished all Namibians peace and prosperity for the year 2025. 

Resolving disputes originating within Traditional Authorities consumes government time and vital resources that could be directed towards other national priorities.

President Nangolo Mbumba emphasized this point, while urging people to respect customary laws and norms and to seek amicable resolutions.