The Sovereign Congress of African Leaders Inaugural Natural Indigenous Traditional Leaders Awards
Thabo Motlhabi
The Sovereign Congress of African Leaders (SCAL), under the leadership of its president, professor, and royal, Thabo Mpyane, successfully hosted the inaugural Natural Indigenous Traditional Leaders Awards. The ceremony was hosted at Akasia Community Hall, 120 Disotus Ave, Karen Park, Pretoria. On Tuesday, 16 December 2025.
The historical ceremony took place on Reconciliation Day, a significant national moment as South Africa continues to heal from the past injustices and strive to strengthen unity under 30 years of democracy. The event highlighted the critical role of traditional leaders in governance and emphasised the need for their recognition as key contributors within government structures.
The primary objective of the awards ceremony was both celebratory and a call to action. Scal called on the government to formally recognise national leaders across all spheres of leadership, including the economy, land, politics, and law-making processes. The event reaffirmed that traditional leaders remain the custodians of true leadership deeply rooted in communities and committed to people-centred service.
Addressing the audience, President of the Sovereign Congress Council of African Leaders, Royal20, and Professor, Mr Thabo Mpyane, stated:
“Our focus is to restore the dignity, recognition, and integrity that have been taken away from our traditional leaders over time. The difficulties and suffering faced by many of our communities are a direct result of the erosion of traditional leadership influence. ”
Professor Mpyane further emphasised the enduring relevance of traditional leaders in modern society. They’re and will always remain the natural and permanent leadership of their people. Governing ourselves does not mean being rebellious. We are saying, let’s work hand in hand with the government. Traditional leaders are custodians of the land, culture, and people. Politicians are administrators: they cannot replace traditional leadership.”
The awards ceremony coincided with a significant milestone for Scal as the organisation finalises its 20-year strategic plan, built on four foundational pillars: leadership, transformation, education, and the establishment of the Scal academy.
The campaign reaffirmed that traditional leaders are prepared to preserve and protect the cultural heritage, traditions, and identity of their people. While they don’t require government endeavourment to exercise their authority, they remain open and willing to work in partnership with government for the betterment of society.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards to traditional leaders in recognition of their leadership and services to the communities and unwavering dedication. The awards served as a powerful affirmation that their work is valued and led with purpose and integrity.