FIRE AT MANYANE GAME LODGE AND ELEPHANT POPULATION GROWTH AT MADIKWE GAME RESERVE

The Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) in the North West Province would like to keep the public informed about the recent developments at Manyane Game Lodge in Mahikeng and the issue of elephant population growth at Madikwe Game Reserve in Bojanala District.

On the question of Manyane Game Lodge, DEDECT confirms the following: On the 03rd December 2024, fire started in the afternoon as a subcontractor was busy waterproofing roof level concrete water channels on top of completed structures. The thatch roofing had been completed on the affected structures. Apparently they used gas torches with open flame to stretch materials used.

During this process, thatch material from the building they were working on caught fire. Wind fanned the fire and blew it across to the nearby building. All in all three buildings were gutted – restaurant, conference hall and the entrance gate.

Mafikeng fire services had responded to the incident and has been working hard to minimize damages. All the flames were dowsed off by 16h00. In the end, the three structures have lost their roofs completely while the brickworks are still standing. The chalets are not affected in fire and are still intact.

Technical staff and Working on Fire teams are on site to ensure that the fire does not affect the reserve area.

On the question of Madikwe Game Reserve, DEDECT confirms the following: The department note the concerns raised by The True Green Alliance Wildlife NGO on the starvation and death of elephants in Madkwe Game Reserve. The conservation unit in the department has indicated that the elephant population at Madikwe Game Reserve has been growing at a fast pace over the 30 years. The elephant population expanded to more than 1600 in 2024.

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane has instructed Conservation Specialist in the department to consider all scientific methods of controlling elephant population growth at Madikwe Game Reserve in order prevent the ongoing negative impact on biodiversity in the park. MEC Lenkopane said “the team should explore options which include but not limited to non-lethal methods of population control such as translocations of elephants to other parks in the country or any of the SADC countries that has diplomatic relations and bilateral agreements with the government of South Africa on environment and conservation.”

DEDECT is assembling a team of experts to investigate the Manyane Game Lodge fire incident. The department is also engaging the National Department of Tourism since renovations at Manyane Game Lodge is a collaborative effort between the two spheres of government.

Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism

DEDECT WELCOMES ALL VISITORS TO THE MAHIKA MAHIKENG CULTURAL FESTIVAL

The Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival is an annual event in South Africa that showcases modern traditional music, arts, and culture in the North West Province. It aims to promote cultural diversity, social cohesion, and economic development through a series of events such as a gospel show, traditional festival, arts and crafts exhibitions, and hip hop show.

The North West Provincial Government sees this festival as an opportunity to uplift the hopelessness of its citizens and share information through Indigenous Knowledge Systems. Singing poetry, and dancing are a part of African heritage and are used for prayer and communication with ancestors and for expressing both joy and sadness.

We hope you enjoy this one of a kind experience, there are a few basic precautions you should take to ensure that your stay is as pleasant and safe as possible.

IN THE HOTEL
• Ensure that identifiable staff assist you with luggage on arrival at your accommodation establishment.
• Do not leave your luggage unattended unless it is locked in your room.
• Store valuables in a safe deposit box.
• Keep your room locked at all times.
• Hand the key in at the desk when you leave the hotel- it is advised that you tell someone at the reception where you are going.
• If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door.

IN THE STREETS
• Plan your route beforehand.
• Avoid stopping at remote areas.
• Don’t stop people to ask for directions or check your map on the streets.
• It is better to explore in groups and stick to well-lit busy streets.
• If you want to go on a trip, your accommodation establishment or the nearest tourism information office can recommend a reliable service.
• It is not advisable to carry large sums of money around.

ON THE ROAD
• Practice the same prevention skills you apply in parking lots or garages at home.
• Become familiar with your route before you start the trip.
• Get a map of the route and study it.
• Keep doors locked while driving.
• Store luggage in the car’s boot (trunk) where it is out of sight.
• If your car is bumped by another car, think before you get out. If you are in doubt or feel uncomfortable, signal to the driver to follow you to the nearby police station or a busy, well-lit area where it is safe to get out of the car.

IN THE CAR
• Keep the doors locked and windows up all times.
• Do not use cell phones unless you have a hand free kit.
• Lock your valuables inside the boot (trunk) before departure.
• At night, park in well-lit arears.
• If in doubt about the safety of an area, phone a police station for advice.

SAFETY AT THE ATM
• Be alert at all times and if you see anything suspicious, stop your transaction and leave.
• Never give your pin to anyone, not even a bank official or security personnel.
• Never accept assistance from a stranger.

HOW TO AVOID MUGGING
• Look around you and be aware of your surroundings. Remember, an area is not safe just because you are familiar with it.
• Carry your bag around your neck and diagonally across your body. Do not carry hanging over one shoulder. You may as well clutch your bag and hold it to the front.
• Walk in well-lit busy streets and walk in a group if possible
• If you know or suspect that a pedestrian is following you, go to the nearest well-lit or busy area and call the police.
• Avoid taking short-cuts through deserted areas such as parks, empty areas and passages.
• Do not publicise your valuables.
• If you are followed by a suspicious vehicle, never try to outrun it. Turn and walk in the opposite direction. React by yelling or shouting if possible.
• Hide your cell phone and do not walk around talking on it as it will distract you.

SIGHTSEEING AND ENTERTAINMENT
• Use registered, qualified tour guides, identifiable by a certified tour guide badge and card.
• Do not leave valuables on chairs, under tables or on restroom hooks.

REPORTING CRIME – STEPS TO FOLLOW
• Dial the telephone number 10111 anywhere in South Africa.
• A call centre operator will answer the incoming call and take all necessary particulars.
• The complaint is the assigned to the local South African Police Services, Community Services Centre’s Sector Vehicle or the nearest Flying Squad vehicle.
For more complaints of a less serious nature and for general enquiries the nearest police station should instead be called. It is therefore very important that numbers of one’s nearest local police station be on hand.

FOR FURTHER CLARITY OR LODGING ANY TOURISM RELATED COMPLAINTS PLEASE CONTACT:
Provinical Registrar – Tourist Guides – Gabriel Dichabe:
gdichabe@nwpg.gov.za • 083 413 1022
George Masomako:
gmosomako@nwpg.gov.za • 082 740 6662

MEC BITSA LENKOPANE WELCOMES STATS SA REPORT ON JOBS CREATED IN NORTH WEST PROVINCE

The Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism in the North West Province note and welcomes the slight decrease in the unemployment rate in the country.

According to the Stats SA Quarterly Labor Force Survey (QLFS) Q3 released today 12/11/2024, there was an increase of 294 000 in the number of employed persons and that increased the total number of employed people in the country to 16, 9 million.

Changes in the employment and unemployment rate resulted in the official unemployment rate deceasing by 1, 4% from 33, 5% in the second quarter of 2024 to 32, 1% in the third quarter of 2024.

Stats SA report also indicate the largest increase in employment were observed in Easter Cape (83 000), Western Cape (75 000) North West Province (69 000) and Mpumalanga (49 000). Decreases were only observed in Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu-Natal.

Having studied the Quarterly Labour Force Survey results as they relate to the North West Province,
MEC Bitsa Lenkopane said “As a department that is ceased with the mandate of creating an enabling environment for jobs to be created, we are a bit relieved that the North West Provinces has increased employment. We are equally not going to be complacent because 69 000 job opportunities in a population of close to 4 million people in the province is nothing but a drop in the ocean”

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane pointed to the stability of the electricity grid in the country as one of the factors that might be contributing to positive results in the employment figures. The MEC also reiterated that the province will accelerate the attraction of investment into the province.

Skills development and unlocking opportunities in the tourism sector and non-traditional sectors like
biodiversity will be prioritized.

The MEC further stated the tempo on SMME support will be increased and the vision of industrializing the province through the Special Economic Zone is receiving maximum attention.

Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and
Tourism

For inquiries, contact:
Mr. Thomas Matlapeng
Media Liaison Officer
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
Director: Communication and IT Services
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect
Facebook: @nwdedect

MEC’s OUTREACH: EXPOSING RURAL WOMEN TO ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), led by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, convened a gathering on 8 November, at Sannieshof Lodge and Events for women, primarily from rural areas of North West Province. The aim of this outreach programme was to empower women about government services and enterprise opportunities that can improve their socioeconomic conditions.
This initiative is part of a broader government plan to stimulate economic growth and address gender disparities in rural communities, aligning with the Government’s Integrated Rural Development Sector Strategy launched in 2023. It also supports sustainable economic development and social transformation goals as outlined in the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Act.
DEDECT empowered women in business and aspiring entrepreneurs by providing information on support services the Department and its agencies offer, such as small business and cooperative registration, empowerment funds, business turnaround and recovery programmes, liquor license applications, opportunities in the biodiversity and tourism sectors, and compliance with business regulatory laws. Other participating government institutions, including the NYDA, SEDFA, SARS, NWGB, Goldrush, V Slot, NEF, WECONA, and others, shared insights into their services. Local SMMEs were also afforded the opportunity to showcase their products, demonstrating women’s commitment to actively participating in and growing their businesses.
In her address, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane expressed satisfaction at the turnout and the strong interest shown by women eager to learn about the government’s offerings, demonstrating the need for rural women’s empowerment to drive economic growth, create jobs, and build stronger, more equitable communities.
The MEC also highlighted that the Department’s initiatives align with the priorities of the current administration, which is committed to accelerating service delivery and empowering communities through outreach programmes like Thuntsha Lerole. She further indicated the DEDECT’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with other government institutions and the private sector to unlock economic opportunities for North West residents. “A core focus of DEDECT, as the primary department facilitating economic development in the province, should be to provide clarity, guidance, and incubation support to our people. Access to information is critical and should not be undermined as it empowers communities to understand and seize the opportunities available and meant to transform their livelihoods. Through this outreach, we want to ensure that women, youth, and people with disabilities are not left behind,” said MEC Lenkopane.
These government outreach programmes are essential to improving public access to government information, enabling communities to engage directly with officials and gain a better understanding of available opportunities. By actively disseminating information, the government fulfils its responsibility to empower communities and respond to their challenges while receiving feedback to enhance service delivery.

Handover of Equipment to Small Businesses in Ngaka Modiri Molema

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane officially handed over essential business equipment to small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) at the NWDC Trade Market in Mahikeng on 8 November 2024.. The event is part of the 7th administration’s Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded initiative, aimed at accelerating service delivery and fostering economic growth within local communities.
Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded is an impactful program designed to support and empower local business communities. The beneficiaries had the opportunity to engage directly with the MEC, allowing her to learn more about their businesses and discuss how these enterprises contribute to the broader community.
NWDC SMME Manager, Mr. Wanzi, provided a brief overview of the businesses receiving support. The diverse range of beneficiaries includes enterprises in bakery, event management, and chemical manufacturing. In total, the equipment handed over was valued at over R1 million, designed to help these businesses grow and thrive.
During her speech, MEC Lenkopane highlighted the Premier’s commitment to supporting the business community. She explained that the promise to provide equipment was part of an ongoing effort to empower entrepreneurs and ensure that they have the necessary tools to succeed. The MEC emphasized the importance of creating accessible platforms for business communities, encouraging entrepreneurs to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the NWDC. She also stressed the need for empowerment through practical initiatives, such as using the provided equipment, taking short courses in skills development, and participating in training programs offered by the department.
Beneficiaries and the Equipment Handed Over
Diperela Projects
Tent, VIP toilets, trailer, rectangular ten-seater, gold-trimmed chairs, Wimbledon chairs, round tables (20), dome dishes, frame tent, mobile fridge
Vivi Chemicals
Multi-detergent tank, tank cover, inverter and mixer, air-controlled LED, motor storer
Katso Treats
Measuring scale, mixer, muffin pans, tables, cutter sets, cake display, double-bowl mixing station, gas double-deck oven, gas cylinder
Ma2K Projects
Dough moulder and additional bakery equipment
In her closing remarks, Grace Moiloa, one of the beneficiaries from Diperela Projects, expressed her gratitude to the department and the NWDC for their unwavering support. She emphasized how the newly provided equipment will significantly enhance their operations and contribute to the growth of their business.
This handover marks a significant step in advancing local economic development, providing essential resources that will help businesses not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

MEC Lenkopane Addresses North West Community on Business Licensing and Regulations

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane kicked off her day on Monday 21 October 2024, by engaging with the North West community on Motsweding FM, providing updates on the department’s initiatives to streamline business licensing and regulations in the province.

During the interview, the MEC underscored the department’s ongoing commitment to fostering a conducive business environment. She emphasized the importance of ensuring all businesses are registered and adhere to the North West Business Licensing Act No. 3 of 2019, the National Liquor Act, and the North West Gambling Board Act 2 of 2001.

The MEC also shared progress on the newly drafted North West Liquor Licensing Act No. 6 of 2026, which is awaiting publication. The draft incorporates valuable input from industry stakeholders, addressing shortcomings in the previous Act and aiming to enhance compliance.
To facilitate liquor license renewal, the department launched an outreach campaign from 1 October to 22 December 2024. This initiative brings services closer to the people, ensuring timely renewal and adherence to regulations.

MEC Lenkopane further reiterated the department’s dedication to supporting businesses in North West. The department is actively working to simplify and expedite the business licensing process, aligning with the 7th Administration’s focus on improved service delivery.

To bolster business registration efforts, the department has contracted data capturers to assist with registration and verification processes across the province. Additionally, the MEC directed officials to intensify awareness campaigns about the importance of operating businesses within legal boundaries.
The MEC amongst other things shared that department, in conjunction with municipalities and national departments, will continue to enforce regulations to prevent tragic incidents like the recent Soweto incident, where five children allegedly lost their lives after eating snacks from a local tuck shop.

Joint Blitz Inspection Compliance Campaign Continues in Moses Kotane Local Municipality

The comprehensive Joint Blitz Inspection Compliance Campaign continued during Thuntsha Lerole on Friday 18 October, in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality coordinated by the Department of Employment and Labour. The campaign targeted outlets in the Manamakgoteng, Mogwase, and Moruleng areas to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Key stakeholders in the joint inspection included DEDECT’s Consumer Affairs, Business Regulations, and Liquor Regulations divisions, alongside Municipal Health Services, the North West Gambling Board, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, Municipal Waste Management, SAPS, the Department of Agriculture (Veterinary Health Practitioner), and Municipal Public Safety.

Consumer Affairs inspected seven businesses during the campaign. Of these, four were found compliant, while three were non-compliant, violating the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008, specifically Section 23 (Disclosure of Prices of Goods or Services) and Section 24 (Product Labeling and Trade Descriptions). Non-compliant businesses were advised to comply with consumer legislation, and follow-up inspections will be conducted.

Liquor Regulation inspectors visited several liquor premises, noting widespread ignorance of regulations. Common violations included failure to keep records, failure to display licenses, renting premises without board approval, and selling takeaway alcohol in premises licensed for on-site consumption. Compliance notices were issued, and owners were guided on the necessary steps to achieve compliance. SAPS and the department will conduct follow-up inspections.

The North West Gambling Board issued fines totalling R6, 000 for possession of illegal gambling machines, confiscating 16 machines valued at an estimated R24, 000.

Municipal Waste Management safely collected and disposed of condemned foodstuffs using specialized equipment, in accordance with the National Environmental Management: Waste Act No. 59 of 2008.

Moses Kotane Municipal Health Services issued fines totalling R41, 500 for violations of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act 54 of 1972, Regulation 146 of 2010. Shops were found selling expired and unsafe foodstuffs, which were promptly removed from shelves. Additionally, two shops were closed due to unhygienic conditions and will only reopen after proper cleaning and re-inspection. Most businesses lacked Certificates of Acceptability and vector control measures.
The government remains committed to working with law enforcement and regulatory bodies to ensure strict compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. Communities are encouraged to act responsibly and report any non-compliance to the appropriate authorities.

DEDECT’s Arbor and Heritage Day Celebration 2024

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, accompanied by Acting HOD Mr. Relebohile Mofokane, along with senior management and staff from DEDECT and its agencies, NWDC, NWGB, and NWPTB, celebrated Arbor and Heritage Day with the community of Tlakgameng today at the local sports ground. The event aimed to promote the conservation of natural resources and the celebration of South Africa’s diverse “rainbow nation,” encouraging unity among South Africans despite differences in history, race, culture, and beliefs.

The celebration commenced with the donation and planting of indigenous and fruit trees at the Tlakgameng Tribal Office, Seitsang Primary, Kegakilwe Primary, and Molale Day Care Centre. MEC Lenkopane was joined by Kgosi Kegakilwe, Ward Councillor Lehela Theko, and other community leaders for this tree-planting initiative, which is part of DEDECT’s ongoing contribution to the national goal of planting 10 million trees over five years. Launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2021, the campaign seeks to promote environmental sustainability and protection while delivering socioeconomic benefits to the people of South Africa.

The event also featured a celebration of local cultures, including those of the Batswana, Herero, and Basotho, along with participation from traditional healers and faith-based organizations. The youth were encouraged to know their identity, preserve their heritage, and embrace the diversity of South Africa’s cultures. The day was further enriched with cultural music and dances from local traditional groups, and the enjoyment of African cuisine.

In line with this year’s Heritage Day theme, “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom,” MEC Lenkopane paid tribute to the many struggle stalwarts who sacrificed for the country’s freedom, remembering figures like Mama Ruth Segomotsi Mompati and Mr. Clement Bohitile Baabua who comes from Tlakgameng.

MEC also highlighted the rich history of the North West Province, positioning it as an ideal destination for heritage tourism. She pointed to significant heritage sites such as the Taung Skull Fossil Site, the Vredefort Dome, Modimong, Dinkgwaneng and Thomeng, encouraging the community to explore these sites and take responsibility for their preservation for future generations. Many of these heritage sites are located within the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District.

MEC Lekopane amongst other things urged community members, and calling for corporate organizations, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, and educational institutions, to actively participate in the tree-planting programme. Trees play a vital role in building sustainable and healthy communities, offering benefits such as nutritious food, medicinal resources, and contributing to human well-being in less obvious ways, such as by providing clean water and fresh air.