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.

MEC Lenkopane officiates the handover of equipment to North West SMME’s

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane officiated the handover of equipment to co-operatives in the North West on 26 and 27 September 2024. This is an initiative of the Department of Small Business development, SEDA and SEFA through the Cooperative Development support programme, working hand in hand with DEDECT. The Programme offers a number of incentives to Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME’s) to grow their business.

The Cooperative Development Support Programme (CDSP), launched by the Department of Small Business Development, SEDA, and SEFA, aims to empower SMME’s, specifically cooperative enterprises. This initiative, exemplified by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane’s recent equipment handover, offers a comprehensive range of support, including financial assistance and non-financial resources. By providing grants, loans, and technical assistance, the CDSP enables cooperatives to expand their operations, improve their efficiency, and enhance their sustainability. This, in turn, contributes to job creation, poverty reduction, and economic growth in the region.

MEC Lenkopane emphasized that the collaboration between national and provincial government services is crucial for creating a more efficient and responsive administration. “By streamlining processes and avoiding duplication of efforts, we can better serve our people and accelerate development and job creation, said the MEC.

Here are the cooperatives which benefitted from the programme:

Tshireletso Bricks Cooperative,Boikhutso Township, Lichtenburg.

The items being handed over include a Brick Manufacturing Machine, Forklift, Cement, Sand and Crusher.
Founded in 2013, Tshireletso Brick Cooperative manufactures and sells various types of bricks and consists of 6 members. They aim to grow exponentially and create even more opportunities for local communities.

Letshabo Sons Cooperative, Motolong Village, Taung
The Letshabo Sons Cooperative is a small business established in 2011 by Chairperson Jacob Letshabo and his six brothers. The faming enterprise started with no land and has since cultivated 70 hectares of rented land for farming. It primarily focuses on vegetable farming, including maize and wheat, but also strategically rotates crops to optimise yields.

With the addition of a Landini 98KW Toptronic Cab Tractor and a new 24-Disc Orbach plower, the cooperative is poised to significantly expand its operations. These advanced tools will enhance efficiency and enable the cooperative to cultivate more land, ultimately creating additional jobs in the community.
Currently employing 8 permanent staff and up to 35 during peak seasons, the cooperative aims to further expand its land holdings to over 100 hectares, providing even more opportunities for local residents. The new equipment is a crucial step towards achieving this goal and ensuring the cooperative’s long-term sustainability.

Barui Driehoek Cooperative, Farm Driehoek, Lykso, Greater Taung Local Municipality.

Barui Driehoek Cooperative had applied for, and since been approved as a beneficiary of the Cooperative Development Support Programme (CDSP) in collaboration with National Department of Small Business Development and SEDA. The family cooperative received much needed equipment including 12 Bonsmara Heifers, a Delivery Van and a Generator.

The Co-op is managed by Kabelo and Matshidiso Mooketsi, and was established back in 2011 as an agricultural cooperative. They have since gone from renting farmland to occupying their own farm. With a focus on beef, chicken, and eggs, Barui has garnered recognition for its excellence, including the prestigious 2017 National ARC Small-Scale Commercial Beef Producer award. These latest additions to their farm promise to enhance their production capacity and create new job opportunities.

MEC LENKOPANE APPOINTS THE NWP&TB INTERIM BOARD

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane has taken the decision to appoint an interim board for the North Parks and Tourism Board (NWP&TB). The interim board is led by Adv. Matshidiso Mogale and is deputized by Adv. Obakeng Kgomo. The interim board is inclusive of representatives from the House of Traditional Affairs and community members from the auspices of People and Parks.

The MEC issued a clear mandate to the interim board which include amongst others (a) transformation of parks in the province (b) improving relations with Communal Property Relations (CPAs) (c) review of associations and contracts signed with companies. The MEC further instructed the interim board to discontinue relations with any association that does not add any value and financially reliant on the entity without tangible results.

The MEC said: “I’m concerned that the NWPTB and its subsidiaries received adverse audit opinion from the Auditor General in the last financial year. The Auditor General emphasized matters of material misstatements which led to the adverse audit opinion. Such matters include but are not limited to poor financial controls, lack of consequence management against those who violate the policies of the entity, fruitless and wasteful expenditure. Amongst others things, the AG recommended that I should take strong measures as the MEC to ensure accountability and good governance.”

It is within that context that MEC Bitsa Lenkapne has taken the decision to appoint the interim board that is tasked with improving governance and addressing challenges which affect subsidiaries such as the Golden Leopards Resort (GLR).

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

For inquiries please contact:

Mr. Thomas Matlapeng
Media Liaison Officer
083 687 3649

OR

Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi (DEDECT Spokesperson)
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect
Facebook: @nwdedect

North West launches Tourism Month at Hartbeespoort Dam

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), in collaboration with North West Parks and Tourism (NWP&TB), officially launched Tourism Month at La Joya Conference Lodge in Hartebeespoort Dam today. MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, accompanied by MMC Bopape, Corporate Services for Madibeng Local Municipality, led the event, extending an invitation to media houses and various tourism stakeholders as a lead up to Tourism Month 2024.
Themed “Tourism and Peace,” the event highlighted the critical role tourism plays in South Africa’s growth and development, with a particular focus on tourism safety. MEC Lenkopane emphasized that the North West province is more than just a destination on the map; it embodies a unique spirit and cultural heritage that resonates deeply with visitors. She urged stakeholders to recognize the significance of sustainable tourism in preserving both natural and cultural resources.
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children,” MEC Lenkopane reminded attendees, highlighting the need for responsible tourism practices that safeguard wildlife, conserve natural resources, and honor the traditions that define the province. She stressed that tourism thrives on the foundation of other sectors, including culture, arts, events, and sports, which not only attract visitors but also contribute to the development of sustainable tourism products and packages.
MEC Lenkopane called for Tourism Month to be more than just a celebration, urging stakeholders to commit to building a vibrant future for the North West. She also announced plans to empower the youth, with initiatives such as appointing 100 young people in Tourism and Hospitality, 100 Tourism Safety Monitors, and 1,000 rangers to collaborate with traditional leadership and local communities. These efforts aim to foster public-private sector collaboration and ensure the sustainable growth of the tourism sector.
She further encouraged the media and stakeholders to celebrate the incredible stories of the province. “Every village, town, and city in North West has a story to tell—a story of resilience, triumph, and dreams realized. There is no greater power on earth than story.” By sharing these stories, the province can bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire visitors from around the world.
MEC Lenkopane also took the opportunity to invite the public to explore the North West, proudly declaring it one of South Africa’s premier tourist destinations. The province boasts a wealth of attractions, including the world-renowned Taung Skull, Sun City, Hartbeespoort Dam, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, Madikwe Game Reserve, and many others.
Reflecting on her recent budget vote speech, MEC Lenkopane reiterated the 7th administration’s commitment to developing the tourism sector. She called on all stakeholders to reposition tourism as a strategic sector for economic growth and job creation. This includes enhancing tourism experiences by prioritizing the upgrading and maintenance of infrastructure, particularly roads leading to major tourist attractions, and ensuring that towns and cities are clean and welcoming to visitors.
Looking ahead, the North West province plans to host a variety of cultural and heritage festivals across the region, including events at Cookes Lakes in Mahikeng. Partnerships with key industry events, such as the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) Leadership Conference at Sun City and the SAAPI Conference, will further enhance the province’s tourism offerings. The “Tourism Friday” initiative will spotlight different districts, providing valuable information on where to go, stay, and eat, as well as essential tourism safety tips.
A highlight of the upcoming festivities is the “Park Mahala Week” from September 15 to 22, during which all Nature Reserves and Parks in the North West, except Madikwe Nature Reserve, will offer free access to residents. This initiative, aligned with the 7th administration’s goals, aims to provide market access opportunities for SMMEs in communities surrounding the parks, allowing young entrepreneurs to exhibit their crafts.
In closing, MEC Lenkopane announced plans to finalize the North West Tourism Safety Plan in collaboration with the Department of Community Safety, focusing on increasing law enforcement visibility in designated tourism areas.

MEC LENKOPANE ANNOUNCES R400 MILLION BOOST TO TRANSFORM THE PROVINCE’S BIODIVERSITY AND PROTECTED AREAS

In a significant move towards environmental sustainability and economic development, the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism has announced a transformative budget allocation of R400 million for the financial year 2024/25. This intends to revitalize the province’s protected areas and refocus the Biodiversity Economy sector, as stated by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane in her recent Budget Vote Speech.
A substantial portion of the budget is earmarked for the Community Rangers Programme, creating job opportunities for at least 1,000 young individuals. These young rangers will be crucial in maintaining clean and safe environments, combating illegal activities like sand mining and dumping, and rehabilitating degraded landscapes in their communities.
The department will establish a Biodiversity Beneficiation Mega-Hub to harness the economic potential of wildlife derivatives. This innovative project will focus on processing animal skins and hides locally, generating jobs for small businesses, and fostering the production of proudly South African products. The initiative not only supports local industries but also contributes to the community’s economic empowerment.
Aligned with the National Game Meat Strategy, the North West province will enhance the accessibility of game meat to local communities and create opportunities for emerging game farmers. The Game Donation Programme aims to support previously disadvantaged individuals and communal agro ecological landscapes, enabling meaningful participation in the wildlife sector and driving transformation within the industry.
The department is also expanding existing projects focused on cultivating Devil’s Claw and Cancer Bush species. A semi-fledged agro-processing hub will be established in the Kagisano Molopo Municipality, adding value to medicinal plant products and boosting the local economy.
In partnership with the Department of Land and Rural Development, the North West Development Corporation, and the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, the department is expediting land restitution in protected areas to accelerate economic development without compromising biodiversity. This collaboration ensures that communities surrounding protected areas like Madikwe, Borakalalo, and Pilanesberg will benefit from new economic opportunities.
Several policy and legislative instruments have been reviewed to create an enabling environment for the biodiversity sector, including the Cabinet-approved White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use. The province is also updating its conservation ordinances and finalizing the North West Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NWBSAP) 2030, ensuring a sustainable and equitable approach to resource management.
“These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to tapping into the Biodiversity Economy potential and driving economic development while promoting sustainable use and conservation of natural resources,” said MEC Lenkopane. “We are transforming protected areas to activate our rich Biodiversity Economy sector, which can significantly contribute to the economic development and livelihood support for the people of North West Province.”
MEC Lenkopane firmly committed that with these comprehensive measures, the province will become a leader in environmental conservation and economic growth, ensuring a sustainable future for its people and natural resources.

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane Inspires Young Entrepreneurs at Youth Entrepreneurship Programme

Ms. Bitsa Lenkopane, the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), graced the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme as a guest speaker held on 07 August 2024. The event, hosted by the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI) in collaboration with Absa South Africa, gathered aspiring entrepreneurs at the NWU – North-West University Potchefstroom Campus.
The Youth Entrepreneurship Programme is dedicated to equipping and developing young entrepreneurs within the province, providing them with the necessary tools to expand their businesses and effectively position themselves in the marketplace. This initiative is vital for fostering economic growth and job creation.
Established as a registered youth non-profit organization, the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute aims to empower the youth by offering practical skills, organized knowledge, and proactive support. The institute’s mission is to facilitate a seamless transition for young individuals from entrepreneurial ideas to business startups, ultimately driving measurable impact within the community.
The collaboration between YAEI and Absa Bank serves to challenge the notion that banks exclusively prioritize partnerships with large corporations. Absa’s representative highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting emerging organizations and facilitating access to funding for young entrepreneurs striving to develop their businesses.
In her address, MEC Lenkopane underscored the significance of DEDECT’s involvement in such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between government and the private sector. This partnership is crucial for identifying and funding economic growth programs that serve public interests.
Furthermore, she encouraged young entrepreneurs and stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen the economy collectively. MEC Lenkopane reiterated the importance of utilizing the services offered by DEDECT, which are designed to support and nurture young talent as they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys.
The Youth Entrepreneurship Programme represents a pivotal moment for young entrepreneurs in the province, fostering connections and opportunities that will propel them towards success.