Exploring the role of traditional leaders in conflict resolution amongst Vatsonga at Bungeni Area: Limpopo Province

This study explored the role of African traditional leaders in conflict resolution amongst Vatsonga at Bungeni area in Vhembe district of the Limpopo Province. The researcher argues that the advent of formal courts in the South African dispensation has resulted in the role of African traditional leaders being overshadowed.The objective of the study was to examine the institution of traditional leadership as a sector of conflict resolution; to outline the nature, scope and processes of different conflict resolution mechanisms used by Vatsonga traditional leaders; to assess the implications associated with adopting the Vatsonga traditional conflict resolution mechanisms; to appraise legislation and policies that govern traditional leadership and African conflict resolution mechanisms; and to explore possible palliatives to ensure that African conflict resolution mechanisms can be strengthened and/or can operate at an equal footing with the formal courts. The study adopted the Sankofa and Conflict Transformation Theory.The study used qualitative method involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to collect data. The population of the study was sampled using non-probability sampling. Purposive sampling was used to sample participants. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis to give the probable results that would help to bridge the gap identified in the process. The study reveals that traditional leaders in South Africa are unaware of legislations and policies governing conflict resolution, and most are unaware of their content due to English language barriers. While traditional leaders are custodians of customary law, they are not experts in western laws. Traditional leadership is a crucial sector for conflict resolution in sub-villages, particularly in the Bungeni area, to resolve conflicts through mediation, reconciliation and arbitration. The chieftaincy, led by Chief Bungeni, is hierarchical and based on hereditary lineage which is similar to other African countries.

Author dc:creator

• Baloyi, Welcome Akani

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Matshidze, P. E.
• Makhanikhe, T. J.
• Kugara, S. L.

• Conflict
• Traditional leaders and Jungle
• Justice
• UCTD

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/11602/2976

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:11602/2976