The Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act will come into effect from April 1.

President Cyril Ramaphosa referred to the initiative as a significant milestone when he made the announcement during the Official Opening of the National House of Traditional Leaders on Thursday, saying that the country’s Khoi and San leaders will, after following prescribed processes, for the first time enjoy official recognition and will serve in the National and Provincial Houses.

Ramaphosa had signed the Bill into law in November 2020, amid warnings that the law enables dispossession without consent.

He reiterated that the Act sought to transform traditional and Khoi-San institutions in line with constitutional imperatives such as the Bill of Rights, and restore integrity and legitimacy of the Khoi-San leadership, in line with customary law and practices.

“The Act will direct the kingship or queenship, principal traditional community, headmanship, headwomanship and Khoi-San communities must adopt customary law and customs in a manner that is consistent with the principles contained in the Bill of Rights of the Constitution,” Ramaphosa said.