Chieftaincy and Kingship in Africa: How Lessons from the Government in South Africa Can Address Ghana’s Maladroitness in Inter-Ethnic Relations

Abstract

Although the Authority of chiefs was undone by colonial rule in Ghana, traditional rulers have served as important adjuncts in the administration of post-colonial governments in Africa. This paper examines the evolution of chieftaincy, particularly as an agent of administration, with particular reference to the Ghanaian and South African experiences. Indeed, post-colonial Ghanaian and South African governments have all come to rely on traditional rulers to aid in development activities. Historical tensions related to chieftaincy conflicts in South Africa led to government intervention post-Apartheid to address colonial injustices. Ghana can learn from this approach to resolve disputes, especially among the Konkombas and Dagombas in its Northern Region. As such, the paper concludes that the administration of justice by the Government, coupled with positive institutional political interference, will bring trust and an end to the banner of traditional conflicts through resolution mechanisms.