For too long, employees of Golden Leopard Resorts (GLR) have faced delays in salary
payments, pension contributions, and third-party deductions. The Department of
Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) is
pleased to confirm that these challenges are being decisively addressed. A 4.7%
salary increase has been approved for all GLR employees, effective from the 2024/25
financial year, with 19 months of back pay to be processed by the end of November
2025.
“This is not merely a financial correction; it is a restoration of trust, a reaffirmation of
government’s compassion, and a recognition of the human impact that administrative
and financial shortcomings have had on individuals, families, and communities,” said
MEC Bitsa Lenkopane.
On behalf of the North West Provincial Government, DEDECT extends a heartfelt
apology to all GLR employees and their families for the hardship, uncertainty, and
distress they have endured. “Your patience and perseverance have not gone
unnoticed. Your commitment, even through adversity, is the foundation upon which
this renewal is being built,” the MEC added.
The MEC announced that the Department has successfully presented the Golden
Leopard Resorts (GLR) Turnaround Strategy to the Executive Council (EXCO),
marking a significant milestone in restoring stability and sustainability at the entity. This
strategy represents more than a financial intervention; it is a commitment to rebuilding
institutional integrity, restoring employee confidence, and positioning GLR as a
sustainable and competitive contributor to the provincial tourism economy.
The history of GLR has not been without difficulty. The entity was transferred from the
North West Development Corporation (NWDC) to the North West Parks and Tourism
Board (NWPTB) without corresponding financial resources, resulting in an unfunded
mandate that placed immense strain on the Board’s financial position.
This was compounded by historical debt dating back to 2014, resulting in debt owed
to third parties, including the South African Revenue Service (SARS), provident funds,
medical aid schemes, and family court maintenance orders. These obligations have
not been honoured since 2022, despite deductions being made from employees’
salaries.
MEC Lenkopane acknowledged, with humility and sincerity, that part of the historical
debt burden stemmed from previously unapproved budgets and Annual Performance
Plans (APPs). “The Department recognises that these governance lapses contributed
to the financial distress that undermined service delivery and employee welfare. We
are now turning this page with purpose and integrity,” she said.
The department is working tirelessly to settle historical debts and strengthen
governance systems that ensure sustainable operations. The approved Turnaround
Strategy has paved the way for both operational recovery and the restoration of dignity
to the hardworking employees who have endured years of uncertainty.
“The GLR turnaround is not only about financial recovery, it is about building a
sustainable, ethical, and performance-driven organisation that values its people,
strengthens governance, and contributes meaningfully to tourism growth and job
creation in the North West Province,” said MEC Lenkopane.
For inquiries, contact:
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
Director: Communication and IT Services – 072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect /
Facebook: @nwded