The 1964 Barotseland Agreement remains a pivotal historic document that laid the foundation for the autonomy of the Barotse region that is now part of Zambia, in Southern Africa. The agreement, signed between the government of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and the Litunga of Barotseland, recognised the Barotseland territories as a separate region with its own government, territory, and autonomy. The agreement outlines essential elements that are crucial to understanding the terms and conditions of the Barotseland Agreement.
Firstly, the agreement recognised Barotseland as a separate territory distinct from Northern Rhodesia. The Barotseland was granted its own government and legislature, with the Litunga (King of Barotseland) as the head of state, assisted by a Prime Minister and Council of Ministers. The agreement also acknowledged the Barotse government`s power and authority over the region`s internal affairs, including land, resources, and all other matters relating to administration and governance.
Secondly, the agreement guaranteed the Barotseland people a certain degree of autonomy in political and economic matters. This included the right to develop and implement their own policies and laws, as well as their own legal system, administration, and judiciary. The agreement also stipulated that Barotse citizens could not be subjected to any laws or regulations passed by the central government of Northern Rhodesia without the approval of the Barotse government.
Thirdly, the Barotseland Agreement recognised that the region was entitled to retain all revenues and resources generated within its borders. This included revenue from taxes, levies, customs and excise duties, and any other sources of income generated within the Barotseland region. The agreement also recognised the Barotse government`s right to manage and control all natural resources within its borders, including minerals and other resources found in the region`s soil.
Finally, the agreement acknowledged and affirmed the Litunga`s authority over customary law and custom in the Barotseland region. This included the power to enforce and administer customary law, as well as the right to appoint and remove traditional leaders and chiefs in the region.
In conclusion, the 1964 Barotseland Agreement is an essential document that outlines the terms and conditions of the autonomy of the Barotseland region in Zambia. It recognises the region`s distinct identity, the autonomy of its government, and its right to self-determination. The agreement remains relevant today, as it continues to inform discussions on the devolution of power and the decentralisation of government in Zambia and other African nations.
