Traditional Leaders and Local Government in Africa

Book excerpt: The aim of this book is fourfold: firstly, to investigate, compare and analyze the role and functions of traditional authorities in four African states; secondly, to reflect on the relationship between traditional authorities and local and national governments by investigating the formal and informal arrangements that exist between them; thirdly, to provide an overview of the role afforded to traditional authorities, by indicating their functions, decision-making powers and administrative functions; and finally, to provide possible lessons for South Africa deduced from these experiences.