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.
