The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT),
and Its Agencies, North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) and North West Gambling Board
(NWGB) led by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, joined thousands of enthusiastic participants at the Sun
City GM’s Kasi Ride on 26 October 2025 – a vibrant celebration of health, fitness, and social
cohesion.
The event, hosted within the scenic Sun City Resort, featured cycling, running, and walking
activities that combined wellness with local tourism. Kasi Ride also offers participants an
opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tourism attractions of the Bojanala region while
promoting a healthy lifestyle.
True to its commitment to social development and responsible citizenship, DEDECT used the
opportunity to advance its ongoing campaigns on responsible drinking and gambling. These
awareness initiatives form a vital part of the department’s mandate and are continuously rolled out
through roadshows, outreach activities, and flagship programmes such as Thuntsha Lerole.
Several departmental staff members also took part in the walk and run, proudly representing
DEDECT and embodying the department’s message of balanced, healthy living.
In alignment with its mission to drive inclusive economic growth, DEDECT once again placed micro,
small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the centre of the event. Through its Access to Market
Programme, the department provided eight enterprises from the Bojanala district with an invaluable
platform to showcase and sell their proudly local products and services to thousands of attendees.
The featured MSMEs included: The Eve Essential, Paleigh Designs, Oliviavalentia Pty Ltd,
TshegoM Enterprise, Candleberry Craft, Mmukwa Pty Ltd, Mpi Ntokozo, and Beige Butterfly. This
initiative underscores DEDECT’s commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for local
entrepreneurs, promoting local procurement, and supporting job creation within communities.
MEC Lenkopane commended the event’s spirit of collaboration, noting that platforms like the Kasi
Ride not only promote wellness but also strengthen community bonds and economic participation.
The MEC also conveyed the department’s message of promoting responsible drinking and
gambling, while discouraging support for unlicensed outlets. She also encouraged all Kasi Ride
participants and community members to continue supporting MSMEs by buying local to stimulate
their sustainable growth.
Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism
For inquiries, contact:
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
Director: Communication and IT Services (072 333 0325)
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect