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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

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.

The highly anticipated North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub Project site was officially handed over today, Wednesday, 19 March 2025, at the North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus. This milestone event marks a significant step in the province’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and driving inclusive economic growth.
Hosted by the NWU in partnership with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT) and the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI), the handover brought together government officials, academia, development agencies, and young entrepreneurs. The event signified the formal transfer of the building site, paving the way for the construction of a state-of-the-art Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub that will serve as a catalyst for business growth and innovation in the province.
The North West Provincial Government reaffirmed its commitment to the project by officially announcing funding support, reinforcing its dedication to creating sustainable economic opportunities and job creation for the province.
Delivering the keynote address, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane of DEDECT emphasized the importance of investing in youth and innovation. “The North West Provincial Government is proud to support this visionary project. This hub will serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering access to skills development, mentorship, and funding opportunities that are critical for business success,” said MEC Lenkopane.
As the province’s knowledge hub, the North-West University will play a strategic role in driving economic development. The initiative will not only benefit students but also empower entrepreneurs across the province by equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to transform their ideas into thriving businesses.
“Universities are no longer just institutions of learning; they have become dynamic hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship. The North-West University is committed to fostering a culture of creativity, supporting startups, and facilitating knowledge transfer through research, technology, and networking. This will ultimately drive economic growth and address global challenges,” said Prof. Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of NWU.
Echoing this sentiment, YAEI CEO Mr. Risuna Maluleke emphasized the transformative impact of the project. “The hub is more than just a building; it is a symbol of our collective belief in the potential of young people in the North West. YAEI is excited to see this vision come to life and to continue working with partners who share our commitment to empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs,” said Maluleke.
A symbolic site handover ceremony marked the official commencement of the hub’s development, generating a shared sense of excitement and optimism among stakeholders. The North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub promises to be a game-changer, providing a space where ideas will flourish, businesses will thrive, and the province’s economic landscape will be transformed.
Issued jointly by:
North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism
Departmental Spokesperson: Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
Email: jeremiahmatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Contact: 072 333 0325

North-West University (NWU)
Manager Communications: Mr. Oscar Mosiane
Email: oscar.mosiane@nwu.ac.za
Contact:076 684 5014

Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI)
Marketing, Communication & Events Manager: Ms. Zenaye Skosana
Email: Zenaye@entrepreneursinstitute.org.za
Contact:071 338 1399

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) continues with day 3 of its strategic planning session at the Mmabatho Convention Centre, under the leadership of MEC Bitsa Lenkopane. The session remains focused on the development of the department’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan and the 2025-2026 Annual Performance Plan (APP).
This critical planning session highlights the department’s commitment to a community-centered approach. It strongly emphasizes establishing SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) indicators to enhance service delivery. Day 2 focused on refining strategic output indicators, laying the foundation for impactful economic development initiatives.
Addressing the session, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane reaffirmed the department’s dedication to putting the people of the North West province first. “Our strategic plan must deliver tangible results in job creation and economic growth. We are committed to ensuring our plans directly support poverty reduction and employment initiatives, responding to the real needs of our communities,” said MEC Lenkopane.
She further emphasized the importance of leveraging private partnerships and promoting investment as key drivers of sustainable economic growth. A major focus of the session was also placed on aligning the strategic plans of DEDECT’s entities, including the North West Development Corporation, North West Parks and Tourism Board, and the North West Gambling Board. The goal is to prioritize community needs, enhance revenue generation, and reduce reliance on direct government funding.
The session sought to sharpen the department’s strategic framework to ensure effective service delivery and meaningful contributions to the province’s economic growth. In line with the National Development Plan 2030, MEC Lenkopane stressed the need for an integrated approach to planning.
“Through this unified approach, the department and its entities will complement each other by aligning their plans and ensuring the delivery of high-impact services,” said MEC Lenkopane. She reiterated the importance of tailoring departmental plans to the unique needs of the North West province, particularly its rural communities. This approach ensures that service delivery targets are realistic and directly address the province’s specific challenges and opportunities.
The planning session goes beyond initial coordination by tackling strategic priorities with a direct impact on the provincial economy and job creation. Setting realistic and achievable targets is key to revitalizing and strengthening the North West’s economic landscape. This economic upliftment will be pursued alongside ensuring a safe and protected environment, which DEDECT recognizes as vital for long-term growth. Fostering a thriving tourism sector is also seen as crucial for job creation and economic diversification.
Collaboration is further strengthened by the participation of key stakeholders, including the National Department of Public Works and Transport, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), the Office of the Premier (OOP), and the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA). Their input is assisting in refining the department’s targets and priorities, ensuring alignment with national and provincial development goals.
Mr. Relebohile Mofokane, Acting Head of the Department, called on management to ensure the Annual Performance Plan (APP) accurately reflects the department’s current efforts and future goals. He emphasized the APP as a vital tool in tackling service delivery challenges and aligning with the department’s strategic targets.

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
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect
Facebook: @nwdedect

Click on ‘Read More’ button to download/read the DEDECT Lobelo La Dipitsi – Information & Registration brochure.

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, led by MEC Lenkopane, marked World Consumer Rights Day with a strong message against unfair practices within the funeral industry. The colloquium, held at the Chiefs Court in Taung Local Municipality, highlighted the plight of vulnerable consumers, particularly the elderly, who are often exploited by unscrupulous funeral service providers.

MEC Lenkopane, accompanied by Kgosi Tshepo Mankuroane, Bakgatla ba ga Puduhuchwana Traditional Council, MMC for LED in Taung Cllr. Tshidi Seepe, Acting Head of Department Mr. Relebohile Mofokane, Local Ward Councillors and representatives from various consumer regulators, emphasised the theme of “Fairness and Transparency in the Funeral Industry.”

“The heart of the matter in this year’s discussion lies in the dishonouring of funeral policies, or where payments are made after the funeral, which serves no purpose. A practice that robs grieving families of their peace and dignity during their most vulnerable moments,” stated MEC Lenkopane. This underscores the core issue driving the department’s consumer rights celebration, and the two-day Consumer Education Roadshows, and compliance inspections, which were held, in the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District.

The MEC outlined a series of concerning practices, including funeral parlors vanishing when claims are made, offices located far from communities, and aggressive tactics by insurance brokers preying on unsuspecting consumers. “As the government, we are committed to ensuring that our consumers are protected from exploitation. This is why we also strive to further promote the use of the Consumer Court, so that consumers’ complaints can be addressed,” said the MEC.
To combat these issues, the MEC announced a comprehensive action plan, which includes intensifying awareness campaigns, strengthening enforcement, strengthening complaint mechanisms and verification of funeral undertakers.

The event saw the presence of key consumer regulators in tackling current comsumer issues, including ICASA, MIOSA, Sanlam, the Ombud Council, National Financial Ombud Scheme South Africa (NFO), and Taung Local Municipality, signalling a collaborative effort to address the challenges head on.

MEC Lenkopane called upon these regulators to enforce compliance with their requirements, ensure that terms and conditions are clearly stated and explained, particularly to elderly citizens.
The department urges all stakeholders, including funeral undertakers, insurance brokers, underwriters, and community leaders, to join forces in creating a fair and just marketplace.
Community members were also encouraged not to hesitate to complain when their consumer rights are violated, and to know where to take their complaints for redress.

Click on ‘Read More’ button to download/read the Dedect Empowerment Fund:Call For applications.