Government Prioritises Chiefs in Rural Industrialisation Programme

20 December 2025

By Monalisa Ntibane

Government says traditional chiefs are at the centre of its rural industrialisation drive, as authorities move to strengthen Community Economic Empowerment Trusts across the country.

Speaking at the recent ended two-day workshop on Harnessing Community Economic Empowerment Trusts for Accelerated Rural Industrialisation, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndhlovu, said that the programme is deliberately built around traditional leaders, whom he described as the foundation of community development.

The Minister said his Ministry remains committed to closing gaps within the initiative, adding that officials will continue engaging communities directly through district visits to better understand local needs and provide targeted support.

Ndhlovu also highlighted the role of indigenous languages in inclusive development, noting that effective communication helps ensure no community is left behind.

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