Michael Sakuneka

Hundred and twenty-eight headmen who fall under the Modjadji Kingdom in Limpopo have been ordered to stop holding tribal meetings in their own backyards.

The order by the Modjadji Royal Council also instructs indunas to build their own tribal offices.

This was one of the issues discussed during a quarterly general assembly of the council which was held at Khehlakoni in Bolobedu at the weekend

In a statement issued by the office of the secretary for the council, Moshakge Molo- kwane, it was stated that indunas must discuss with their communities how they will build the offices.

The council also tabled a set of rules to help traditional leaders from all the villages in the area on how to lead their communities.

Tabling the report, Molokwane said the indunas have to start taking responsibility of everything that goes on in their areas.

Traditional leaders were also encouraged to help promote the Balobedu culture and customs in their respective communities.

The council indicated that local communities will be prohibited from cutting down trees for fire wood, in an effort to prevent deforestation.

The council said that indunas can also play a vital role in educating their communities on how to prevent forest fires.

Molokwane further explained that besides the stipulated rules, penalties will be imposed on any offender who fails to adhere to the law of the area, and this includes traditional leaders who do not adhere to the rules of the council.

The council also criticised shebeen owners who do not adhere to government legislation which is explained to them by licensing officers when they apply for trading licences.

Molokwane said: "The indunas must work with their communities to establish cultural groups like sekgapa, dinaka and everything else necessary that will help in promoting and preserving the culture and tradition of Balobedu."