The establishment of Native Authorities had a significant effect on the empowerment of traditional rulers within the colonial administration. During the colonial era, European powers sought ways to administer their colonies efficiently and with minimal resistance. One approach they adopted was the system of indirect rule, where local traditional rulers were incorporated into the colonial governance structure. This meant that these rulers were given roles and responsibilities within the colonial administration, hence they were empowered in several ways.
Firstly, traditional rulers were entrusted with enforcing colonial laws and collecting taxes on behalf of the colonial government. This increased their influence and authority within their communities.
Secondly, they played an intermediary role by acting as a link between the colonial authorities and the local people, thus gaining some level of political significance.
Lastly, while the empowerment of traditional rulers helped the colonial administration maintain control, it also meant that these rulers were sometimes restricted in their actions and had to balance their traditional roles with their new administrative duties.
In summary, the establishment of Native Authorities led to the **empowerment** of traditional rulers within the colonial framework, enabling them to play substantial roles in governance under the indirect rule system.