Ntlo Ya Dikgosi is an advisory body to the National Assembly on issues of national interest as set out in the Constitution of Botswana. According to the Constitution, Ntlo Ya Dikgosi has the responsibility;

  • to consider a copy of any bill which is referred to it under the provisions of Section 88 (2). The National Assembly shall not proceed upon any bill (including any amendment to a bill) that, in the opinion of the person presiding, would if enacted, alter any of the provisions of the Constitution or affect;
  • the designation, recognition, removal of powers of Dikgosi, Dikgosana or Headmen;
  • the organization, powers or administration of customary courts;
  • customary law or the ascertainment or recording of customary law; or
  • tribal organization or tribal property
  • to discuss any matter within the executive or legislative authority of Botswana of which it considers it is desirable to take cognisance in the interests of the tribes and tribal organizations it represents and to make representations thereon to the President, or to send messages thereon to the National Assembly (Section 85.(5)).
  • it communicates its advice to the National Assembly through the Resolutions
  • the House is presided over by the Chairperson of Ntlo Ya Dikgosi assisted by the Deputy Chairperson who both are elected every 2 and half years.