Interprovincial meeting commits to expanding economic opportunities for the North West and Free State Provinces

MEDIA STATEMENT
To : All Media Houses
Date : 26 June 20252025

Interprovincial meeting commits to expanding economic opportunities for the North West and Free State Provinces

The MEC for the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane hosted an interprovincial engagement with her counterpart, MEC for the Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA), Ketso Makume with the aim of forging a collaboration to unlock cross-border initiatives and deliver mutual benefit for the two provinces. The session ran parallel to the third G20 Sherpa meeting held on the 25th-26th June 2025, at Sun City Resort, Moses Kotane Local Municipality.

The interprovincial session was attended by HOD for DEDECT, CEO of North West Development Corporation as well as Senior Managers from both departments.

In her opening remarks MEC Lenkopane highlighted that the two provinces shared geographic assets and economic interests, hence it is strategic for them to engage and promote interprovincial economic cooperation.

MEC Makume echoed the same sentiments when he said we should not allow the provincial borders to be barriers of progress. We should put communities first, considering that communities and labour are already intertwined.

The meeting engaged in robust deliberations on cross border opportunities and areas of cooperation. The discussions explored economic sectors of cooperation such as agro-industrial development, renewable and green energy, industrial and logistics, tourism and cultural routes as well as skills and enterprise support.

Following the deliberations, the two provinces came to an agreement to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU will give guidance on areas of implementation and practicalities thereof. Identified areas of cooperation and mutual learning include Special Economic Zones, tourism, heritage and cultural activities, agriculture, industrial parks, enterprise development opportunities around airports, dams and Vredefort Dome UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The envisaged MoU will activate working forums and facilitate follow-up meetings to implement the agreed upon initiatives.

In concluding the meeting, the host MEC Lenkopane remarked that she was excited to see the collaboration of the two provinces bringing a caring government to the people of North West and Free State.

Ends
Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism
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Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
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MEC BITSA LENKOPANE CHAMPIONS FINANCIAL INCLUSION FOR WOMEN ACROSS THE NORTH WEST

The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism,
Bitsa Lenkopane, has called for bold, collaborative action to dismantle systemic barriers
that continue to exclude women from full economic participation.
Speaking at a high-impact engagement on Women’s Financial Inclusion, hosted under the
banner of G20 South Africa at the Carousel Casino & Hotel in Hammanskraal, MEC
Lenkopane emphasized the urgent need to centre women in the transformation of financial
systems.

“Too many women remain locked out of economic opportunities — not because they lack
potential, but because they are systematically excluded from access to land, finance, and
influence,” said MEC Lenkopane. “This is not a failure of women; it is a failure of systems. It
requires a collective response from the banking sector and other key stakeholders to rebuild
systems with women at the core.”

The session, held in partnership with the Mayor of Moretele Local Municipality, Cllr Masango
George Manyike, Speaker of Moretele Local Municipality, Cllr Freda Mapele, Cllr Ditshego
Mbezi, Speaker of Madibeng Local Municipality, and local ward councillors brought together
women from rural and urban communities to explore financial instruments, digital skills
development, and institutional support mechanisms available to them.

MEC Lenkopane underlined the North West Province’s commitment to enabling womenowned businesses to thrive through improved access to credit, procurement opportunities,
and representation in decision-making structures.

“Our goal is not just awareness but empowerment. We must ensure women are supported,
not only to know about opportunities but to seize them,” she said.

The engagement forms part of the province’s G20 Empowerment of Women Working Group
(EWWG) sessions, which aim to address critical priorities, including:
• Advancing the care economy;
• Promoting financial inclusion for and of women;
• Combating gender-based violence and femicide.

Local Economic Development initiatives, Industrial Parks, the Bojanala Special Economic
Zone, Biodiversity Economy Markets, and beneficiation programmes were highlighted as
strategic enablers for women’s economic advancement. Women in the province have long
driven informal economies through stokvels, cooperatives, and village savings groups, and
now, pathways are being opened for them to scale, formalise, and trade beyond borders.

“But as we rise, we must lift others. We must be intentional about opening the door wider for
the next woman in line,” added MEC Lenkopane.

She also urged the financial sector to reimagine inclusive systems that serve the unique
needs of women entrepreneurs, particularly those running micro and small enterprises. The
call to action was echoed by the Mayor of Moretele Local Municipality, Cllr Manyike, who
reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to economic empowerment through local
interventions such as mentorship platforms, microloans, and funding support.

Participating women had the opportunity to engage with representatives from strategic
institutions including African Bank, the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), Small Enterprise
Development Finance Agency (SEFA), SARS, UNISA, and the Young African Entrepreneurs
Institute (YAEI), which was recently launched in partnership with North-West University to
boost entrepreneurship and reduce graduate unemployment.

MEC Lenkopane further encouraged the adoption of circular economy models within the
province’s economic strategy, spotlighting waste-to-wealth enterprises, agro-processing,
upcycling, and bio-energy as practical areas where women can lead.

“From bee farmers turned wine exporters in Taung, to skincare innovators in Mogwase, and
the globally recognized Mor-Gin brand in Moretele, women in the North West are already
trailblazers,” she said. “These are not just success stories, but blueprints of what’s possible
when women are given equal access to capital, markets, and knowledge.”

The session concluded with a resounding commitment to ensuring that women in the North
West are not only beneficiaries of development but also agents of economic transformation,
equipped, empowered, and enabled to lead the province toward inclusive and sustainable
growth.

Thuntsha Lerole: MEC Lenkopane Oversees Destruction of 278 Illegal Gambling Machines

The Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Phase 4 Service Delivery Programme made significant strides in the Kgetleng Local Municipality on 9 May 2025, with a successful rollout at Reagile Stadium. This initiative, led by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, focused on tackling illegal gambling operations while promoting business compliance and economic development.
In a decisive move to curb unlicensed gambling, MEC Lenkopane led an operation that resulted in the confiscation and destruction of 278 illegal gambling machines across Rustenburg and Koster. The operation, carried out in collaboration with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) NW Gambling Board, South African Police Services (SAPS), Hawks, and other stakeholders, targeted informal businesses and unlicensed liquor outlets.
With 169 machines seized in Rustenburg and 109 in Koster, the initiative underscored the government’s commitment to enforcing liquor licensing regulations and eliminating illegal gambling activities. Offenders now face legal penalties and fines as part of efforts to ensure compliance and maintain a lawful business environment.
MEC Lenkopane emphasized the importance of regulation and expressed her commitment to working with the Gambling Board Unit and other stakeholders to implement a provincial programme. This programme will provide corrective measures and support to individuals seeking to transition into lawful business operations, fostering economic development in the process.
Alongside efforts to regulate gambling, the Tourism Unit also took proactive steps to enhance road safety. Through an inspection and a roadblock awareness campaign in Koster, officials engaged with motorists to promote responsible road usage.
Moreover, the service delivery programme extended beyond enforcement actions to include economic empowerment initiatives. Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) were given a platform to showcase their market initiatives through a flea market and exhibition area. The event featured a food court, an exhibition site, and an information session where the public could learn about various departmental services and programmes.
The Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Phase 4 Service Delivery Programme continues to make an impact, not only by reinforcing compliance and regulatory standards but also by fostering business development and economic growth. As new initiatives unfold, the collaborative efforts of multiple government units and stakeholders promise a stronger, more structured approach to service delivery in local municipalities.

MEC Lenkopane Addresses the Academia-Public-Private–Diplomatic Corps Forum, the Road to G20

MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation & Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane, today addressed the launch of the Academia-Public-Private–Diplomatic Corps Forum at the UNISA Senate Hall in Pretoria.

The forum’s primary purpose is to unite industry players, entrepreneurs, researchers, government officials, the diplomatic corps, and development partners to foster collaboration for Africa’s economic advancement. MEC Lenkopane delivered a compelling message of support and contributed to a high-level panel discussion themed: “Road to G20 Through Innovation Research and Collaboration.”

Addressing the distinguished gathering, MEC Lenkopane underscored the North West Province’s resolute commitment to fostering strategic partnerships for economic advancement. Highlighting the province’s unique strengths and outlining key areas for development, MEC Lenkopane clearly indicated the potential benefits the Province could leverage from the G20 summit and beyond, particularly with some events scheduled to be held in the North West Province.

The MEC further underscored the crucial need to ensure that the people of the North West directly benefit from the province’s natural resources. “Our resources need to be viewed as an investment in our people, enabling communities to benefit from the wealth generated by them,” stated the MEC.

MEC Lenkopane provided examples such as the province’s rich biodiversity and tourism sectors, advocating for a shift from traditional methods to capitalize on the biodiversity economy and cultural heritage tourism as vital strategies for the province’s advancement. Discussions also covered youth development, conservation, small business growth, and diplomacy.

The MEC thanked UNISA for hosting the forum and highlighted the essential role of collaboration in tackling current socio-economic issues. She emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between government, the private sector, and academia in effectively addressing poverty, unemployment, and inequality across Africa.

The forum saw a significant gathering of influential leaders and stakeholders from government, academia, the private sector, and the diplomatic corps. Their presence highlighted a shared commitment to using innovation, research, and strategic collaboration to drive Africa’s economic development. This event marks an important move towards creating stronger, more impactful partnerships and fostering an environment that supports sustainable growth and prosperity throughout the continent.

R15 Billion Gas-to-Power Project handover and Initiatives to Generate Jobs for Youth and Women in Matlosana

The MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane together with the Executive Mayor of the City of Matlosana Local Municipality Cllr Fikile Mahlophe, presided over the Project Handover and Launch of Women & Youth Empowerment Initiative in Matlosana Local Municipality on 15 April 2025. This event marked a pivotal step in the region’s economic development, focusing on energy security, skills development, and job creation, particularly for women and youth.

A key focus of the event was the handover of the Urban Blue International Gas-to-Power project. This R15 billion investment, facilitated by the municipality’s provision of land, is set to establish a 99MW Gas-to-Power Plant. This project is intended to bolster the region’s energy security and stimulate economic growth, while also providing a cleaner energy alternative.

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane highlighted the significance of the gas to power project. “This landmark investment represents a crucial step forward in our quest for energy security and the promotion of vital investment in our Municipalities and our Province,” said the MEC.

Alongside this major infrastructure development, MEC introduced initiatives focused on skills development and job creation. The BANKSETA Skills Development Programme was also launched today will provide local women and youth with valuable, credit-bearing skills, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation. Additionally, 100 Compliance Monitoring Field Workers were introduced, comprised of local youth, and will be deployed to enhance the department and municipal capacity in enforcing business and environmental regulations. These two programs will generate 253 job opportunities.

The initiatives are part of a broader effort to address youth unemployment and promote sustainable development. MEC Lenkopane reiterated the government’s commitment to providing ongoing support to Matlosana, including initiatives in Environmental Services, Business Regulation Support, Economic Development Support Services, Tourism Services, and the establishment of a One-Stop Shop Centre.

Mayor Cllr Fikile Mahlophe expressed his appreciation for DEDECT’s support, emphasising that these initiatives are for the benefit of the community. He highlighted the importance of the compliance officers in ensuring businesses adhere to local bylaws, and recognised the Gas-to-Power project as a transformative investment for the people of Matlosana. The Mayor further expressed that the launch will assist the Municipality to embark on environmental awareness campaigns at schools and withing the CBD.

The event underscored the collaborative efforts between provincial and local government in driving economic development and empowering communities. This partnership is fostering tangible results through significant investment and meaningful job creation, laying the foundation for a more prosperous future for the Province.

Inaugural Lobelo la Dipitsi traditional horse racing drives economic growth and cultural heritage

The inaugural Lobelo la Dipitsi Traditional Horse Racing event, held at Bloomtech Lodge in Vryburg this past weekend, has successfully celebrated North West Province’s rich cultural heritage while stimulating local economic growth. The event was graced by Premier Lazarus Mokgosi and MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, reinforcing the government’s commitment to promoting cultural tourism and supporting small businesses.
Lobelo la Dipitsi marks a significant milestone in the North West’s efforts to leverage traditional sports for economic development. The event attracted an influx of visitors from across the province and neighbouring countries such as Botswana and Namibia, boosting tourism and fostering cross-border collaborations.
A key feature of the event was the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMME) exhibition, which showcased 69 stalls supported by the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT) and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality. These enterprises, ranging from flea market vendors to informal traders, displayed an impressive variety of artisanal products, including handcrafted African-themed clothing, footwear, organic herbs, spices, perfumes, and wooden vases.
MEC Lenkopane emphasized the race’s role in economic transformation, stating, “Lobelo la Dipitsi is not just a celebration of our cultural heritage but also a strategic initiative to drive local business growth. This platform empowers Black entrepreneurs, facilitates job creation, and strengthens our local economy. Through the North West Gambling Board we envisage to empower emerging race associations with compliance in terms of acquiring relevant licenses in relation to gambling legislations.”
During a walkabout of the flea market, MEC Lenkopane engaged directly with small business owners to assess their experiences and the impact of the event on their enterprises. She alluded to the fact that the department will continue to offer support to small businesses and cooperatives to ensure that their products are well packaged, properly labelled, and adhere to South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) requirements. The economic activity generated by the event reaffirmed the potential of public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable economic development.
The event reached its highlight with an exciting prize-giving ceremony, officiated by Premier Mokgosi, MEC Lenkopane, AHOD Relebohile Mofokane, and NWGB ACEO Boitumelo Qalinge.
Winners of the various races were recognized for their outstanding performances:
• Race 1 Winner: Maximus (Owner: Lloyd)
• Race 2 Winner: Rock My Soul (Owner: Matsego Satang)
• Race 3 Winner: Hlankanisa (Owner: Siphumile)
• Race 4 Winner: Roction (Owner: Tsupa)
• Race 6 Winner: Bar One (Owner: Phenyo)
MEC Lenkopane commended the participation of young riders and the involvement of our regional partners from Botswana, Namibia, and Lesotho, highlighting the significance of this initiative in fostering strong economic and cultural ties. “I am confident that Lobelo la Dipitsi has the potential to grow into a flagship event on North West’s tourism calendar”.
She further extended her gratitude to the event sponsors, including G Bets, Goldrush, Sunbets, CGM, and other contributors, for their commitment to making this vision a reality. She also expressed gratitude to community members and horse riders for their enthusiastic participation and support.
Lobelo la Dipitsi will be rotated annually across the districts of the province, ensuring continued economic impact, cultural preservation, and regional integration. This groundbreaking initiative has reinforced the North West Provincial Government’s commitment to empowering local communities through strategic events and sustainable economic initiatives.

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

MEC LENKOPANE WELCOMES THE NWPTB DECISIONS ON INDUSTRIAL ACTION AND EMPLOYEE SALARY INCREASE

The MEC for department of economic development, environment, conservation and tourism (DEDECT) Bitsa Lenkopane, has welcomed the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) resolutions to deal with an illegal industrial action by employees. Employees of the entity have, for the past month or so, embarked on an unprotected strike which destabilized operations both in the entity and the department, traumatized other staff members and disrupted tourism business operators.

The Board has briefed the MEC that the entity will take disciplinary and or prosecution action against employees or any individual involved in this illegality. The Board has acknowledged that protesting employees had obtained a permit to picket, but flouted the rules thereof, engaging in illegal actions that included intimidations to non-striking staff, vandalism and disruption of private business at lodges and parks. Lodge and park owners have since obtained a court interdict to prevent the illegal picketing and the disruption of their businesses.

The Board has directed the entity’s acting Chief Executive Officer to be firm and decisive in implementing its resolutions to deal with any element of criminality and or unsanctioned absenteeism. The Board has also resolved that the situation be declared an emergency, to allow the deployment of extra security resources, to protect the property of the entity and its human resource capital. This is also to enabling business to normally run again.

MEC Lenkopane has also welcomed the Board’s decision to implement a salary of 4.7% increase to the non-managerial positions. Half of the salary increase will be implemented retrospectively from March 2024 and another half in April 2025. The MEC appreciates the improved financial management on both the administration and the Directors of the entity. The department acknowledges the salary disparities between employees from the merged the then Parks and Tourism Boards. The MEC called on the current NWPTB Directors and management to bring balance thereto.

MEC Lenkopane has unreservedly apologized to all staff members and businesses who experienced the unruly behaviour of the illegal picketing, and assured them that parties are working together to bring the situation to normality. She appreciated the efforts of all who stood up and joined hands with the government to fight against the illegal strike.