UUCSA Collaboration with the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTKL)
As part of its commitment to social cohesion and nation-building, the United Ulama Council of South Africa (UUCSA) has entered into a meaningful partnership with the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTKL). UUCSA formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the NHTKL on 27 October 2025, during the UUCSA Annual General Meeting in Cape Town. A collaborative meeting of representatives was held at the UUCSA meeting in Lenasia, Johannesburg on 1 February, 2026.
The NHTKL is a constitutionally recognised national body that represents traditional leaders and Khoisan communities across South Africa. It serves as a consultative and advisory platform on matters relating to culture, tradition, and customary law, playing a vital role in preserving heritage while contributing to national discourse.
Composition of the NHTKL
The NHTKL comprises 23 delegates from seven provinces, reflecting the diversity of traditional leadership across the country. Gauteng is currently represented by two members from recognised traditional councils, with scope for further expansion as Khoisan leadership continues to gain fuller legal recognition.
Significance of the Partnership
Collectively, the NHTKL represents the interests of approximately 25–30 million South Africans. This demographic holds significant cultural and social influence, making the partnership strategically important, particularly in a context where external ideological movements increasingly seek to shape community values. Through this collaboration, UUCSA aims to contribute positively and constructively to the moral and social fabric of these communities.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
UUCSA formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the NHTKL on 27 October 2025, during the UUCSA Annual General Meeting. This agreement establishes a structured framework for cooperation and sustained engagement.
Objectives of the MOU
The MOU seeks to:
- Create a formal platform for dialogue and cooperation
- Foster mutual respect between traditional leadership and Muslim religious leadership
- Leverage shared moral authority to address social and ethical challenges
- Promote social cohesion, moral regeneration, and nation-building
Enable joint engagement on issues of national importance
The partnership is grounded in:
- Alignment with the Constitution
- Respect for autonomy and religious diversity
- Non-partisanship
- Ethical conduct and mutual respect
Key Areas of Cooperation
- The MOU identifies several strategic areas of collaboration, including:
- Social Cohesion: Addressing substance abuse, family breakdown, and moral decline
- Community Development: Youth leadership, women’s empowerment, and social upliftment
- Conflict Resolution: Supporting mediation and peaceful coexistence through traditional leadership structures
- Heritage and Advocacy: Protection of cultural and religious rights, and engagement on customary law policy matters.
for United Ulama Council of South Africa