Issue cover

Vol. 2006 No. 1 (2006): Volume 2006, Issue 1 (2006)

View Issue TOC

Traditional Governance Structures and Modern Democracy in Southern Africa: An Eswatini Perspective

Makazi Maseko, University of Eswatini (UNESWA) Nontoko Nkhona, Department of Advanced Studies, University of Eswatini (UNESWA)
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18835030
Published: February 2, 2006

Abstract

Southern Africa's traditional governance structures have coexisted alongside modern democratic processes for decades. The research employs a mixed-methods approach including structured interviews with government officials, focus group discussions with local communities, and secondary data analysis from official government records and academic journals. Findings indicate that while traditional structures have significantly influenced modern democratic processes in Eswatini, there remains a notable gap between the formal legal framework and practical application of these traditions, particularly in areas such as land tenure and inheritance laws. The study underscores the potential for further research into reconciling traditional practices with contemporary governance to enhance legitimacy and inclusivity within Eswatini’s democratic system. Policy recommendations include fostering greater dialogue between traditional leaders and modern governmental bodies, alongside legal reforms that integrate traditional customs more seamlessly into existing laws and policies.

Full Text:

Read the Full Article

The HTML galley is loaded below for inline reading and better discovery.

How to Cite

Makazi Maseko, Nontoko Nkhona (2006). Traditional Governance Structures and Modern Democracy in Southern Africa: An Eswatini Perspective. African Journal of Women in Leadership and Governance, Vol. 2006 No. 1 (2006): Volume 2006, Issue 1 (2006). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18835030

Keywords

African geographyTraditional authoritiesDemocratic transitionsGovernance studiesAnthropologyMethodologyEthnography

Research Snapshot

Desktop reading view
Language
EN
Formats
HTML + PDF
Publication Track
Vol. 2006 No. 1 (2006): Volume 2006, Issue 1 (2006)
Current Journal
African Journal of Women in Leadership and Governance

References