Molefe was speaking during the official opening of the provincial House of Traditional Leaders.
According to a statement released by his office, Molefe said government had begun the process of finalising some of the "progressive policies and legislation that seek to entrench the relevance, role and function of this institution in the democratic system of government".
"We do so determined to demonstrate that it is possible for the institution of traditional leadership to flourish within a constitutional democracy," he said.
As government engaged in the task of creating a better life for all, it would continue to rely on the contribution, wisdom and guidance of traditional leaders as elders in communities.
"The institution of traditional leadership has and continues to play an important role in our society. As the embodiment of the way of life of our people and a custodian of our customs, traditions and cultures; it occupies a special place in the lives of our people".
Molefe also paid tribute to the historical role of traditional leaders, saying the institution occupied the foremost trenches in the struggle against colonial invasion.
During the struggle for liberation, traditional leaders fought side by side with the masses.
"Their contribution to our liberation struggle confirmed that the institution of traditional leadership is indeed progressive in nature and character".
He was confident that the institution would continue to compliment and strengthen the work done by all spheres of government.
"We have a common duty to lift from the shoulders of our people the intolerable burden of poverty and underdevelopment".
Finalisation of the White Paper on Institutions of Traditional Leadership would lead to the drafting of legislation to give effect to the policy recommendations of the White Paper.
"This act will contribute towards ensuring that as a nation we retain our culture, customs and traditions while we simultaneously recognise the indispensable role of elected representatives in the creation of a better life for all within a constitutional democracy," Molefe said. – Sapa.
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