His Majesty King Mswati III of Eswatini, speaking at the National House of Chiefs on Wednesday, reaffirmed the critical role of African traditional institutions in promoting good governance and preserving cultural heritage, emphasizing their continued relevance in the continent’s development.
“We stand here together, as guardians of Africa’s ancient traditions,” the King began, highlighting that these customs predate modern national boundaries.
He underscored that traditional leaders -kings, chiefs, and queen mothers historically governed with wisdom, ensuring justice, social harmony, and cultural continuity.
King Mswati referenced Chapter 14 of the Ghanaian Constitution, which formally recognizes the country’s traditional institutions.
“It affirms that chiefs are central to our governance,” he noted, adding that they “resolve disputes and safeguard our heritage.” The King praised similar recognition in Eswatini, where traditional leadership is enshrined in the nation’s constitution.
He lauded the integration of tradition and modernity through national ceremonies that celebrate African identity such as the annual Ingoma or Umhlanga dance in Eswatini and comparable festivals in Ghana as examples of cultural preservation in practice.
To further anchor the role of traditional authorities, King Mswati announced the establishment of a formal council comprising kings and chiefs.
This body will serve as an advisory mechanism on matters of tradition, custom, and cultural preservation. “This institutionalization ensures that the wisdom of our chiefs for centuries continues to shape laws and policies in a rapidly evolving world,” he said.
Reflecting on history, the King acknowledged the trials faced by traditional institutions during colonialism, the trans‑Atlantic slave trade, and other upheavals. Yet, he emphasized their resilience: “Traditional leaders, alongside nationalists, stood firm when the winds of independence swept across Africa.”
He paid tribute to notable figures, including revered women such as Ghana’s Queen Mother Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, and celebrated cooperation across regions—highlighting alliances between chiefs in both countries during decolonization.
King Mswati called for a balanced approach preserving valuable traditions while adapting to modern needs. “While we honor our past, we must also scrutinize our traditions,” he said, advocating for the inclusion of women in governance. “Ghana’s queen mothers exemplify this transformative female leadership,” he added.
The monarch also emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations through people‑to‑people exchanges and cultural initiatives. He urged both governments to support programs that blend tradition with innovation.
Expressing deep gratitude to his hosts, King Mswati thanked His Majesty Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the members of the Ghana National House of Chiefs for their hospitality. “Let us embark on this journey together not just for ourselves, but for generations to come,” he concluded.
The visit marks an important affirmation of pan‑African solidarity, rooted in shared cultural heritage and a mutual commitment to ensuring that traditional governance continues to inform future progress.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
