- ‘Moemela Kgosi to replace belittling Kgosana term’
Plans are underway to introduce a new structure for traditional leadership that is intended to bring clarity and order within the Bogosi systems.
This was revealed by the chairperson of the Consultative Committee on the proposed review of Bogosi Act of 2008 and the Customary Court Act of 2013, Kgosi Puso Gaborone of Batlokwa during a kgotla meeting at Boseja Kgotla in Maun on Thursday. The minister of local government and traditional affairs ural Development held the consultative Kgotla meeting to gather community input on the proposed review of the two Acts.
“The proposed hierarchy places Kgosikgolo at the top, followed by Mothusa Kgosikgolo, Kgosi, Moemela Kgosi 1, Moemela Kgosi 2, and finally Kgosi ya Tetanyo,” he explained.
Gaborone is convinced that this new structure will improve leadership efficiency and reduce conflict within the chieftaincy system. The proposed structure awaits to be tabled before parliament
Meanwhile, the Batlokwa paramount chief clarified why the term “Kgosana” was excluded, explaining that many people feel it diminishes the status of the deputy chief and instead, the title “Moemela Kgosi 2” (Junior Chief’s Representative) is used to show respect while maintaining the hierarchy.
For his part, minister of local government and traditional affairs, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa emphasised the importance of traditional leadership, stating, “Bogosi must act as a bridge between government and the public, especially in maintaining peace.” He advocated for granting dikgosi certain powers in criminal matters, noting their role in upholding community tranquillity.
Motshegwa further emphasised the need to revive traditional institutions that instill discipline and cultural values. “Reestablishing traditional schools such as Bogwera and Bojale is not just about preserving culture — it’s about shaping future leaders and promoting moral conduct in our communities,” he said.
He further stressed that the wisdom passed down through these rites of passage has long served as a moral compass and can still contribute to a more respectful and responsible society today. He also touched on the importance of reviving communal ploughing fields traditionally allocated to chiefs to serve the needs of their communities.
“Back then, dikgosi had dedicated lands that were ploughed for the benefit of the poor and vulnerable. Reviving that practice can help us fight hunger and restore the spirit of communal support,” he said.
Community member, Tapiwa Losika expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts, saying, “It’s long overdue to recognise and empower dikgosi appropriately.”
Another attendee, Marian Chauni, stressed that Bogosi is the backbone of the people hence calling for its strengthening and support. She emphasised that livestock-related crimes should fall under the jurisdiction of dikgosi.
“Chiefs understand our communities and the people involved. Their judgment is often quicker, more honest, and grounded in the realities we live with—unlike the slow pace of the formal courts,” she said.
The community embraced the recommendation that every tribe should formally document their genealogy as a way to prevent future disputes and power struggles over chieftaincy succession.
