NORTH WEST ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION HUB PROJECT HANDOVER

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

DEDECT Strategic Planning Session paves the way for sustainable economic growth and community-centered development

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

North West Province Takes Firm Stand Against Funeral Industry Exploitation on World Consumer Rights Day.

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.

PENDING CLOSURE OF BUFFALO LODGE RESTURANT AND FOOD LOVERS MARKET IN MAHIKENG PROMPT MEC BITSA LENKOPANE’S DECISIVE INTERVENTION

The MEC of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism in the North West
Province has taken a decision to intervene at Buffalo Lodge, GLR and Food Lovers Market.

Food Lovers Market

Food lovers Market is a popular grocery and vegetable outlet stationed at Mega City in Mahikeng.
The news of pending closure of this important food outlet prompted MEC Bitsa Lenkopane to
intervene with the sole objective of preventing possible job losses and livelihoods.
According to the outcome of the meeting with management of Food Lovers Market, the lease signed between the
company and Mega City Management has come to an end and negotiations of renewal have failed.
Other risk factors such as security concerns have contributed to the pending closure of Food Lovers
Market.
It is envisaged that another popular brand Boxer Superstore will occupy the space where
Food Lovers Market is situated at Mega City.
However, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane was able to negotiate the absorption of Food Lovers Market employees into Boxer Superstore.

Buffalo Lodge

In another separate event, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane received a call from the employees of another
popular eatery in Mahikeng, Buffalo Lodge, which is also facing possible closure. Close to 20 staff
members are likely to lose their jobs.
North West government, represented by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, is currently negotiating with owners
of Buffalo Lodge with the objective of allowing employees to be incubated into business
management programs and continue to run the place.

Golden Leopards Resort

The Acting Head of Department Relebohile Mofokane’s addressed employees at the Golden
Leopard Resort (GLR) amid challenges faced by the entity.
The department has turned the tide at GLR where the entity has been swimming in a sea of financial mismanagement and debts for the
past three years.
Employees had to go home empty handed for several months with the entity failing to pay their
salaries and their third party deductions that include tax and provident funds amongst others.
Many passed on and/or retired without any payouts.
In the past six months the department managed to settle all third party deductions and made
provisions for salaries.
The MEC is confident that GLR will perform better in the new financial year.

/end/

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
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect
Facebook: @nwdedec

DEDECT STRENGTHENS FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT MECHANISMS TO INTERVENE ON THE AFFAIRS OF NORTH WEST PARKS AND TOURISM

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has strengthened its monitoring and oversight mechanisms to intervene at the North West Parks and Tourism (NWPTB). This follows the entity’s failure to pay employee salaries despite receiving its quarterly financial allocation from the department at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the current financial year. The department has consistently released the quarterly allocation to the entity as per the legislation, with the last of the year released earlier following the entity’s request.

Failure to pay salaries might be a bad omen brewing a regress on the department’s employed mechanism to right the financial wrongs and deficiencies that adversely affected the entity’s audit outcomes. DEDECT MEC Bitsa Lenkopane lamented this risk and said the entity’s financial management needs more attention. “It is inconceivable that the entity is unable to pay salary at the beginning of the fourth quarter while the funds have already been transferred,” said MEC Lenkopane.

She notes that this appears to be a regular occurrence, but says it needs to change. “The risk of not paying salaries is not a new phenomenon in the entity. This situation has been prevalent in the previous administration dating back as far as 2022. The records prove that the entity has failed to generate and or sustainability manage revenue for its benefit. This situation cannot continue unattended, especially in this new administration. The department is left with no choice but to put magnifying glasses on the financial affairs of the Board,” emphasized MEC Lenkopane.

The MEC has since instructed the department’s Accounting Officer, where necessary, to invoke the Treasury Regulation 8.4.2, which gives him powers to withhold a transfer payment or grant, other than division of revenue, if he is satisfied that the entity is failing to meet certain financial conditions, and no financial value is realized. This provision of the Public Finance Management Act applies to all the entities.

The department has begun the process of putting measures to strengthen the oversight on the entities. This is to help steer the ailing entities to the right direction. A task team consisting of financial experts and auditors from DEDECT will be appointed to look closely into the financials of the entity. The team will also be mandated to open all the reports written by the experts that were appointed by the Board of Directors during the Sixth Administration, and to implement their recommendations.

The NWPT Board of Directors has, in its first meeting of 2025, drafted a Revenue Enhancement Plan and resolved to appoint a subcommittee to look into Revenue Enhancement, and exploit the opportunities in biodiversity economy. The Department is in full support on this initiative in quest for diversification to explore closely into these particular untapped and sustainable biological resources, altogether with their markets for contribution into the Provincial Gross Domestic Product.

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
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za Twitter: @nwpg_dedect Facebook: @nwdedect

MEC LENKOPANE AND HER TEAM GRACES THE 2025 DALLAS SAFARI CLUB CONVENTION TO ATTRACT BIODIVERSITY FOREIGN INVESTMENT

This year, the prestigious Dallas Safari Club Convention is currently taking place in Atlanta, Georgia, in the United States of America. This important event, is one of the world’s largest platforms for the international safari industry. It also provides a crucial opportunity to attract foreign investment and showcase South Africa’s unique biodiversity.

Leading the North West Province delegation at this inaugural Atlanta convention is MEC Bitsa Lenkopane. In the absence of the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, MEC Lenkopane assumes the role of South Africa’s representative, emphasising the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife utilisation.

The convention serves as a vital platform for engaging with leading international conservationists and investors. MEC Lenkopane is actively participating in discussions with counterparts from Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. These SADC counterparts are addressing shared challenges such as the management of burgeoning elephant populations in the region.

MEC Lenkopane emphasised that “the primary objective of attending the Dallas Safari Club Convention is to attract foreign investment in order to revitalise the North West Province’s protected areas network and enhance contribution to South Africa’s biodiversity economy.”

Key to this effort are South Africa’s professional hunting associations: the Custodians of Professional Hunting and Conservation South Africa and the Professional Hunting Association of South Africa. Representing over 154 outfitters, these associations are actively promoting South Africa as a
premier hunting tourism destination.

Together we move North West Forward

The delegation is working closely with these associations to address concerns regarding the current export quota processes, which the government is committed to resolving expeditiously.

The North West Province, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, currently ranks third in South Africa for its contribution to the national GDP through international hunting tourism, following Limpopo and the Eastern Cape.

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

Tourism

For inquiries, contact:
Mr. Jonathan Denga Director Biodiversity Management
0728108521
Email: DengaJ@nwpg.gov.za Twitter: @nwpg_dedect Facebook: @nwdedect