The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has allocated R79.5-million for the upkeep of AmaZulu royal house for the 2023/24 financial year.
The funds will be channeled towards the maintenance of King MisuZulu kaZwelithini’s palaces, his siblings, and the welfare of his deceased father’s wives.
During her maiden provincial budget speech in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, KwaZulu-Natal premier Nomusa Dube said the royal household budget has been increased.
“The Office of the Premier supports the Royal Household Trust with funds being transferred accordingly,” Dube said.
“This sub-programme supported the Ukucocwa KweSilo [crowning] ceremony, the handing over of the Certificate of His Majesty, the king’s activities including the hosting of annual traditional and cultural events to preserve and restore the Zulu culture.”
Dube told the legislature that her office is obligated to provide financial relief to the royal house, saying the AmaZulu monarchy is a critical pillar for the protection and propagation of the nation’s culture and heritage, (and is the) custodian of values and norms.
In the past financial year, the royal house was allocated R66-million.
King MisuZulu is regarded as a public office bearer with a monthly income equivalent to that of a chief director in the public service.
The viability of the Royal Household Trust, an entity that manages and disburses funds to the royal house, came under criticism from opposition parties for its glaring failures to generate its own funds and ease the burden off the taxpayers.
The trust was set up more than 10 years ago to look after the assets belonging to the monarch including various farms and properties.
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