How RACC Supports the President’s Vision for Traditional Leadership

On 26 February 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders in Parliament.

His message was respectful, clear and encouraging: that traditional leadership remains central to our nation’s progress, that rural communities must be part of the national development story, and that partnership between government, communities and institutions is essential for meaningful change.

This resonates deeply with the work of the Royal Authority for Commerce and Charters (RACC).

We seek to strengthen the capacity of rural communities and traditional leadership to participate fully in South Africa’s economic future.

ROLESAs, the founding partner of RACC, recognition within the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders reflects something fundamental:

• traditional leadership is not separate from the governance and development of our country — it is fully part of it.

RACC stands at the intersection of this participation.

RACC’s Purpose: Enabling Structured Rural Development

RACC is a platform that helps rural communities and traditional leadership move from good intentions to practical implementation, without replacing existing structures, but by supporting them.

We do this through our six pillars of impact:

• Governance Strengthening

• Project Readiness and Design

• Crowdfunding and Investment Access

• Professional Engagement and Support

• Transparent Coordination and Oversight

• Sustainable Implementation and Reporting

These pillars represent real enablers that help communities:

• transform local initiatives into structured projects,

• attract investment and technical partnerships,

• support youth employment and community enterprise,

• improve infrastructure and livelihoods.

Turning Partnership Into Practice

In his address, the President emphasised partnership, community voice and shared responsibility.

RACC supports that by providing:

• a structured framework for rural initiatives,

• access to professional support and advisory services,

• tools to connect traditional communities with investors,

• systems for transparency that build trust between all parties.

Growth and Protection Go Together

Traditional leaders have always cared for their people.

RACC recognises the importance of:

• safety,

• heritage,

• social cohesion,

• cultural stewardship.

At the same time, we know that economic opportunity strengthens those foundations rather than weakens them.

Communities that are connected to investment and jobs are more capable of:

• supporting their elders,

• training their youth,

• sustaining their local institutions,

• and passing on thriving communities to the next generation.

Our work is grounded in that understanding: when people have opportunity, they are more empowered to protect, build and lead.

Working With the National Vision

The President’s address affirmed the value of traditional leadership.

It called for cooperation in governance, development and opportunity.

RACC contributes to that vision by:

• Providing mechanisms of participation for rural communities,

• Supporting traditional leadership to be active partners in development plans,

• Helping ensure that rural projects are investment-ready and sustainable,

• Helping ensure that progress is measurable and visible.

A Shared Journey

Traditional communities are rich in heritage and culture.

They are also rich in potential, potential that must be unlocked with the right tools, support and connections.

RACC stands with traditional leadership and communities as a practical partner.

We support government and institutions by helping translate vision into action.

As the President reminded us, South Africa’s greatest strength is our unity in purpose.

RACC is committed to helping ensure that unity results in rural growth, economic participation and opportunity for all.

Support an investment-readiness pack for a rural project.