Government has noted the critical role that traditional leaders play in sustaining peace and preventing conflicts across communities in Zambia and the SADC region.
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gift Sialubalo says sustainable peace cannot be achieved through military responses alone, but that it must be built from within communities.
ZANIS reports that the Minister said this during the official opening of a two-week Integrated Training of Trainers Programme on capacitating traditional leaders in conflict prevention, management, and resolution in Lusaka today.
The Minister further observed that traditional leaders remain the most trusted authority for many people and are essential in mediating disputes, strengthening social cohesion, and preventing local conflicts from escalating into national or regional crises.
Mr Sialubalo commended the SADC Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre for organising the programme, noting that it reflects the region’s commitment to proactive conflict prevention and inclusive peacebuilding.
He said the training will help develop a strong pool of trainers who will in turn equip chiefs, headmen, and other traditional leaders with modern tools, skills, and knowledge needed to address emerging security challenges.
Mr Sialubalo added that the programme aligns with key regional and continental frameworks, including the SADC Standby Force, the African Standby Force and the African Union’s Silencing the Guns initiative.
He urged participants to take full advantage of the training and translate the lessons learned into action within their respective communities.
Mr Sialubalo further expressed appreciation to facilitators and organisers, saying their commitment contributes to peace, stability, and development in the region.
Speaking at the same event, SADC Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre (RPTC) Deputy Commandant Colonel Coleen Mafika, reaffirmed the institution’s unwavering commitment to supporting member states in building professional, responsive, and inclusive peace support capabilities aligned with SADC and the African Union (AU) doctrine.
