M.A. / This study sought to provide guidelines for the development of strategies for the socio economic empowerment of traditional leaders. Traditional leaders have performed the development function even prior to the establishment of local government structures. The Constitution of the country does not clearly state the role of traditional leaders. It, however, gives clear disposition of the role of local municipalities and thus creates a vacuum between the two structures. The research explored the socio economic issues in KwaZulu-Natal and also the role that could be played by traditional leaders to enhance sustainable development in rural areas. A qualitative research approach was applied with purposive sampling strategy in this study. Structured questionnaires were formulated and used with focus groups. Two focus groups were conducted with traditional leaders and one with a professional group. The findings of the study confirmed that there were problems experienced by traditional leaders when performing the development function. This had resulted in traditional leaders not being sure of what role they could play in relation to the functions of municipal councils. It also revealed the tension that existed between traditional leadership structures and municipalities. However, the study also indicated the training of traditional leaders to become effective in developmental strategies of the province KwaZulu-Natal and also gave an exposition of the strategies for the socioeconomic empowerment of traditional leaders. / Prof. J.B.S. Nel