Pernod Ricard South Africa’s Support for the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTL)
In South Africa, traditional leaders are revered figures who hold authority over rural and indigenous communities. They play a vital role in safeguarding and advancing the cultural, social, and governance frameworks within their communities. Often known as traditional authorities or chiefs, these leaders are closely tied to the history, customs, and governance systems of their people. Their influence spans various domains, including leadership, conflict resolution, community development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The National House of Traditional Leaders (NHTL) is a body composed of traditional leaders who are delegates from the Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders of South Africa, representing the Provincial Houses at National level.
Challenges faced by Traditional Leaders
Traditional leaders in South Africa face challenges such as limited resources, inadequate training in modern governance,and the need to balance traditional practices with democratic structures. They require financial support to improve community infrastructure and address social issues like health and education. Collaboration with government, NGOs, and corporate partners is essential for their effectiveness. Additionally, they need assistance in navigating legal complexities and enhancing their leadership capacity. Often, they are also victims of these challenges like binge drinking, gender-based violence etc.
Director for Africa Sola Oke.
Pernod Ricard’s Role
The Drink Responsible Programme, a collaborative effort between the Thintane
Foundation and Pernod Ricard, has been a transformative initiative addressing the critical issue of alcohol misuse within rural communities. The manuals are translated in local languages. We have provided tools to tribal councils for improved governance and communication, like marquees and microphones. By equipping traditional leaders and tribal councils with knowledge, resources, and tools, the program fosters responsible drinking behaviors and strengthens the capacity of traditional governance structures to promote sustainable socio-economic development. The measurable outcomes, such as behavioural change,increased alcohol literacy, and empowered leadership, highlight the program’s effectiveness and its potential for scalability across other regions. Through a culturally aligned, community-driven approach, this initiative not only addresses social ills but also reinforces the African value system of collective responsibility and self-sustainability. As the program progresses, its ripple effect will extend beyond immediate beneficiaries, creating a legacy of informed, resilient, and self-sustaining communities.
Pamela Nkuna, Corporate Affairs Director for Africa Middle East says “Pernod Ricard is both humbled and honoured to be part of a transformative partnership with the Thintane Foundation, supported by the Dr. Hendrietta Bogane-Zulu Foundation. Together, we are empowering and enhancing the capabilities of traditional leaders in South Africa, driving lasting, positive change in our communities.”
Development for the Republic of South Africa and Mr Zulu. She is pictured with Corporate
Affairs Director for Africa Middle East Pamela Nkuna and Managing Director for Africa Sola Oke.
Invitation to the Parliamentary Opening:
Pernod Ricard was honored to be invited by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to attend the Parliamentary opening on February 25, 2025. The event highlighted the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen dedicated to supporting the development of South Africa’s rural communities through collaboration with traditional leaders.
Attending the NHTL Parliamentary opening provided Pernod Ricard with a unique opportunity to engage with key stakeholders such as the Minister of Small Business Development, the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and former Minister of Health.
Corporate Affairs Director for Africa Middle East Pamela Nkuna and Managing Director for Africa Sola Oke.
The event also facilitated meaningful discussions with lawmakers, opening avenues for future collaboration on policies that support community and socio-economic development. Sola Oke, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Africa, expressed pride in the company’s involvement, stating, “We are proud to play a role in empowering communities by strengthening traditional leadership and promoting sustainable change which will have a lasting impact across generations.”
This sentiment aligns with the company’s broader objective to contribute to the social and economic transformation of South Africa.
