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The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), working together with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA), and local farmers, has arrested three male suspects for the illegal hunting of warthogs with dogs in Kraaipan village near Atamelang.

The arrests were made during a joint law enforcement operation led by the Department’s Biodiversity Enforcement Unit targeting unlawful hunting in the area. The suspects were allegedly found hunting warthogs with dogs, a prohibited practice in terms of the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance 12 of 1983.

Authorities confirmed that the suspects are facing charges relating to the illegal hunting of wildlife, as well as additional charges under the Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962 for alleged cruelty and improper treatment of animals.

During the operation, officials confiscated two warthog carcasses believed to have been hunted illegally, three dogs allegedly used during the hunting activity, and a Ford Ranger bakkie. Hunting equipment, including a net, spade, and iron rod, was also seized as evidence.

The suspects appeared before the Atamelang Magistrate’s Court, and the matter was postponed to 17 June 2026 for further investigation and legal processes.

MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane, strongly condemned the illegal hunting of wildlife, describing the practice as cruel, unlawful and harmful to the province’s biodiversity.

“Wildlife forms an important part of our environmental heritage and biodiversity economy. Illegal hunting activities not only threaten our ecosystems, but also undermine conservation efforts aimed at protecting species for future generations. We will continue working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those involved in environmental crimes face the full might of the law,” said MEC Lenkopane.

The Department has noted with serious concern the growing trend of illegal dog-hunting activities within the Tswaing Local Municipality, where such practices are increasingly being turned into organised competitions involving underage participants. These unlawful activities often result in the trespassing of private farming properties and place significant pressure on wildlife populations and surrounding ecosystems.

While the use of dogs for hunting may have historical and cultural roots in certain communities, the practice remains prohibited in terms of environmental and animal protection legislation when conducted unlawfully. The Department strongly condemns illegal hunting practices involving dogs, describing them as inhumane, unsustainable and a threat to biodiversity conservation. Offenders found contravening environmental laws will face the full might of the law.

MEC Lenkopane further urged communities to work with authorities by reporting illegal hunting and other environmental crimes, emphasising that protecting natural resources is a shared responsibility.

Members of the public are encouraged to report illegal hunting and other environmental crimes to law enforcement authorities as part of protecting the province’s biodiversity and natural heritage.

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

For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect

The MEC for the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, delivered a keynote address at the Mahikeng Local Economic Development (LED) Strategic Review Workshop held at the Mahikeng Civic Centre today.

MEC Lenkopane highlighted a sobering picture of the socio-economic realities facing the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, where unemployment remains above 30 percent, rising to nearly 35 percent in Mahikeng and exceeding 45 percent among the youth.
“This is not just an economic challenge; it is a social and dignity crisis,” said MEC Lenkopane. “Our people are not waiting for another strategy. They are waiting for jobs, for opportunity, and for real change.”

She noted that the workshop comes at a critical moment to reposition Local Economic Development as a central pillar of the province’s developmental agenda, aimed at accelerating inclusive economic growth, job creation, and economic resilience.
“By the end of this strategy review session, we must develop a clear and measurable Local Economic Development Action Plan, with improved alignment across the three spheres of government, and strengthened mechanisms to support MSME-led growth in line with the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030,” she said.

MEC Lenkopane further emphasised that while the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, launched by Premier Lazarus Mokgosi, provides a clear framework for inclusive growth, industrialisation, and job creation, the real challenge lies in execution.
“Strategies do not create jobs; implementation does. Execution does. Leadership does,” she said.

The MEC called on stakeholders to reposition the District Development Model (DDM) as a tool for coordinated delivery rather than consultation, warning that fragmentation continues to undermine progress.
“When we work in silos, we fail. Fragmentation kills collaboration. But when we coordinate, we unlock impact,” she added.

Highlighting key priorities, MEC Lenkopane stressed the importance of attracting credible investors and coordinating investment into bankable projects across key sectors such as agro-processing, tourism, township economies, green economy initiatives, and digital innovation.
“Jobs do not come from speeches; they come from investment. We must package projects properly and actively bring in investors to unlock sustainable economic opportunities,” she said.

She further noted that the department, through its entities including the North West Development Corporation and the North West Parks and Tourism Board, has identified the waste economy as a key driver of local economic development.
“Waste is not just something we dispose of; it is a resource. If properly managed, it can generate income, support enterprises, and create sustainable jobs,” she said.
In advancing this agenda, MEC Lenkopane announced that the department has already employed 90 young people through learnership programmes under the Matlakala ke Zaka initiative, focusing on waste management and related skills development.
“No economy is going to work without skills,” she emphasised.

The MEC also highlighted the importance of aligning mining-sector activities with local development priorities, calling for Social and Labour Plans to deliver tangible benefits such as skills development, enterprise support, and infrastructure development for local communities.
She further committed to engaging Executive Mayors to align the programmes of the North West Parks and Tourism Board with Local Economic Development strategies to unlock tourism and conservation opportunities.

“At the centre of all of this is partnership. The government cannot do it alone. We need a shared economic mission between government, business, communities, and institutions,” she said.
Concluding her address, MEC Lenkopane called on all stakeholders to act with purpose and urgency in building a working economy for Mahikeng.

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

For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), through its Environment Services Unit, confirms that twenty (20) protected areas in and around the Marico Biosphere Reserve have officially been declared Nature Reserves in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003).

The final declarations were published in the North West Provincial Gazette (Notice No. 8968, Vol. 269) on 10 February 2026.
The declaration of these areas marks a significant milestone in the province’s ongoing efforts to strengthen biodiversity conservation, promote responsible and sustainable land use, and expand the conservation estate within the North West Province.

The process was made possible through collaboration between the Department and landowners in the Marico area through the implementation of the Biodiversity Stewardship Programme, which enables private landowners to voluntarily commit their land towards long-term conservation.
MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane, welcomed the milestone and commended the landowners who partnered with government to protect the province’s natural heritage.

“The declaration of these Nature Reserves demonstrates the power of collaboration between government and landowners in protecting our province’s rich biodiversity. These areas will play a crucial role in safeguarding ecosystems while also unlocking opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable economic development in rural communities,” said MEC Lenkopane.

Collectively, the newly declared Nature Reserves contribute 6,500.9969 hectares towards achieving the 2030 vision outlined in the North West Protected Areas Expansion Strategy (2025–2030).
These protected areas will play an important role in preserving critical ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and promoting environmental sustainability across the province. At the same time, the declarations create opportunities to expand the province’s nature-based tourism offering, positioning the Marico area as a destination for eco-tourism and conservation-driven tourism experiences.

During the 2025/2026 financial year, the North West Province successfully declared a total of 113,761.7908 hectares of protected land, further demonstrating the province’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The Department remains committed to working closely with landowners, conservation partners and local communities to strengthen biodiversity protection, promote responsible environmental stewardship and enhance the tourism profile of the North West Province.

The Marico Biosphere Reserve forms part of one of South Africa’s ecologically significant landscapes and is recognised for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems and cultural heritage. The area plays an important role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management within the North West Province.

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

For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT through the North West Consumer Affairs Court has successfully secured a settlement in favour of a consumer who was sold a motor vehicle with mechanical defects, resulting in the cancellation of an instalment sale agreement and a refund of more than R273 000.

The matter involves Tsiane Services (Pty) LTD, represented by Mr Joseph Thapelo Makgeledisa, who purchased a motor vehicle from Robsmail Motors CC under an instalment sale agreement financed by Nedbank Limited.
Shortly after the purchase, the vehicle began experiencing serious mechanical problems, within three months of acquiring the vehicle. He immediately returned it after discovering some defects and requested the dealer to fix it. The motor vehicle was taken to Wesvaal VW Mahikeng and issued a quotation of R81 568.00. The dealership refused to repair the defects as per quote. The consumer, Mr Makgaladisa then returned the motor vehicle, demanded the cancellation of the contract and refund of instalment already paid. He also informed his bank about his intention to cancel the agreement.

Following the discovery of the defects, Tsiane Services approached the North West Consumer Affairs Office for mediation however departmental investigation Officer was chased out of the premises by Robsmail Motors CC. .
The mediation process failed due to non-cooperation of the dealership and the matter was subsequently referred to North West Consumer Affairs Court. It took the Clerk of the Court to involve South African Police Service (SAPS) for purpose of serving summons
Both Robsmail Motor CC and Nedbank Limited, which financed the transaction, were served with summons in accordance with the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act (Act 68 of 2008).

Through the court process, Nedbank legal representative and Consumer Protector: Mr Seile Letsogo agreed to settle the matter by cancelling instalment sale agreement and refunding Mr Makgaledisa an amount of R273 463, 38 which was total amount paid towards servicing the instalment sale agreement.
In his concluding remarks, Mr Letsogo emphasised the importance of consumers lodging complaints within prescribed timeframe of six months as outlined in Consumer Protection Act and exercise their discretion whether to cancel agreement and seek refund or opt for repairs or replacement.

MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane, welcomed the settlement agreement and commended the work of the North West Consumer Affairs Court in protecting the rights of consumers.
“This case demonstrates that the Consumer Protection Act is not merely legislation on paper but a powerful tool that protects ordinary consumers against unfair business practices. The successful resolution of this matter reflects the commitment of the North West Consumer Affairs Court to ensure that justice is accessible and that businesses are held accountable,” said MEC Lenkopane.

She further emphasised that the outcome highlights the important role played by the Consumer Affairs Office and the North West Consumer Affairs Court in enforcing consumer rights and promoting fair trading practices in the province.
“Consumers must never feel powerless when confronted with defective goods or unfair treatment. The department will continue to strengthen consumer protection mechanisms to ensure that residents of the North West Province are treated fairly in the marketplace. We advise businesses to ensure regulatory compliance to mitigate potential conflicts with their customers,” she added.

The Department encourages consumers who believe their rights have been violated to report such matters to the Consumer Affairs Office, where assistance can be provided in resolving disputes in terms of the Consumer Protection Act.

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

For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and holding businesses accountable, following a successful intervention by the Consumer Affairs Office and Consumer Affairs Court in a dispute involving a Mahikeng resident and a drilling company.

The case, concluded during World Consumer Rights Day month, highlights the decisive role of the Consumer Affairs Court in enforcing compliance and ensuring that consumers are not exploited.
Ms. Josephine Seitlhamo of Lokaleng Village entered into an agreement with Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd in November 2023 for the drilling of a 50-metre borehole, including installation of all necessary equipment. She paid R27,800 for the service.

However, the company failed to meet its contractual obligations. The borehole was not drilled to the agreed depth, and despite claims that the work had been completed, no water was found. The consumer was subsequently requested to incur additional costs amounting to R11,000 for casings, and a further R4,500 for a cylinder pump, without any resolution to the problem.

An independent assessment later revealed that the borehole measured only 34 metres and had no water, contradicting the service provider’s claims and pointing to conduct that falls short of acceptable business standards.
After unsuccessful attempts to resolve the matter directly with the supplier, Ms. Seitlhamo lodged a complaint with the Consumer Affairs Office. Due to lack of cooperation from the company, the matter was escalated to the Consumer Affairs Court.

In February 2026, the Court facilitated a settlement agreement compelling Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd to drill a new borehole and install all required equipment at no additional cost to the consumer. The order was complied with, and by 5 March 2026, Ms. Seitlhamo confirmed that the new borehole is fully functional and yielding sufficient water.

The case underscores the enforcement of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008, which prohibits misleading, unfair, and deceptive conduct by suppliers.
Ms. Seitlhamo suffered financial loss and prolonged inconvenience, having spent approximately R38,800 and relying on water tankers for an extended period due to the supplier’s failure to deliver on agreed services.

Speaking on the outcome, Director for Consumer Protection, Seile Letsogo, emphasised the Department’s firm stance against non-compliant businesses:
“This case demonstrates that the Consumer Affairs Court is an effective platform for redress and enforcement. We urge businesses to comply with the law and treat consumers fairly. Where there is evidence of prohibited conduct, we will not hesitate to act decisively to protect consumers and ensure that justice is served.”

The department has issued a stern warning to businesses operating within the province: non-compliance with consumer protection legislation and unethical business practices will not be tolerated. The Department will continue to pursue enforcement measures, including administrative penalties, against those who violate consumer rights.
Consumers are encouraged to report unfair treatment and seek assistance from the Consumer Affairs Office, which remains committed to ensuring accessible, efficient, and fair redress for all.

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

For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect

The MEC for the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, has noted with serious concern the misleading and politically motivated claims currently circulating in the media regarding the Taung Hotel School project.

The allegations, including claims that the project was halted due to intimidation involving foreign nationals, are entirely false, unsubstantiated and irresponsible. The department views these assertions as part of a broader attempt to mislead the public and distort facts, particularly within the context of the current local government electoral environment.

The department places it on record that the challenges affecting the Taung Hotel School are historical and well documented. Reports by the Auditor-General of South Africa have previously outlined irregularities dating as far back as 2016, necessitating decisive intervention to restore governance, accountability and compliance within the project.

Since assuming office, MEC Lenkopane has been actively engaged in stabilising and repositioning the project through a coordinated approach with national stakeholders, including the Independent Development Trust and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. These efforts have focused on reviewing contractual obligations, addressing identified irregularities, strengthening oversight mechanisms, and ensuring full compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.

The MEC emphasised that funds allocated for the development of the Taung Hotel School remain secured within government. The delays experienced are a direct result of necessary corrective measures aimed at addressing past shortcomings, enforcing accountability, and safeguarding public resources.

“These interventions are critical to ensure that the project proceeds on a sound, transparent and sustainable footing,” she said.

MEC Lenkopane further rejected, in the strongest terms, the narrative suggesting any improper engagements with foreign nationals, describing such claims as baseless and deliberately misleading. Government has long acknowledged the prolonged period during which the facility has not been operational. The matter has since been elevated to the Office of the Premier and the Executive Council, which has mandated the MEC to restore governance, enforce consequence management where necessary, and appoint capable and credible implementing agents to drive the project forward.

Premier of the North West Province, Mr. Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, continues to receive regular progress reports, while the department works closely with national partners to resolve all outstanding issues and transition the project into a new phase of implementation anchored in accountability and good governance.

The MEC has condemned the conduct of individuals advancing false narratives for political gain, noting that such actions undermine public trust and seek to exploit legitimate developmental challenges for narrow interests. The department is firmly committed to restoring the Taung Hotel School to full functionality and ensuring that it delivers meaningful economic and skills development opportunities for the people of Taung and the broader North West Province.

Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment,

Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za

DEDECT MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, together with the Mayor of Tswaing Local Municipality,
Norah Mahlangu, led the Provincial Launch of the #MatlakalaKeZaka Campaign and
recognised Climate Change and Business Compliance Ambassadors at Sannieshof Lodge &
Events B&B on 13 March 2026.

Held under the theme “Clean Today, Green Tomorrow – Our Road to COP30,” the initiative
aims to mobilise communities, municipalities, environmental partners, and academic
institutions to work together in improving waste management and promoting environmental
sustainability.

The campaign forms part of the Premier Lazarus Mokgosi’s pronouncements at the State of
the Province Address and the province’s contribution to global climate action as the world
prepares for the COP30 United Nations Climate Change Conference. It highlights how
community-led clean-up initiatives, recycling programmes, and responsible waste
management can contribute meaningfully to the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Speaking at the launch, MEC Lenkopane emphasised that the campaign represents a shift in
how communities should view waste.

“Matlakala ke Zaka- waste is not a burden but an opportunity. Through this campaign, we want
communities to see that the waste we collect today can become tomorrow’s income, while
protecting our environment,” said MEC Lenkopane.
MEC noted that environmental challenges such as illegal dumping, littering, burning of waste,
and poor waste management practices continue to place pressure on ecosystems, public
health, and community wellbeing. These challenges are further intensified by the growing
impacts of climate change, including droughts, heatwaves, and environmental degradation.

The event also recognised Climate Change and Business Compliance Ambassadors, who
play a vital role in strengthening environmental monitoring, promoting compliance, and
supporting government’s efforts to build cleaner and safer communities.

MEC Lenkopane further highlighted the importance of partnerships with the private sector,
particularly mining houses, to support waste management programmes and strengthen
recycling initiatives across the province. She noted that waste beneficiation can unlock
economic opportunities, where materials such as plastics, glass, paper, and cans can be
recycled, reused, and transformed into products that support local enterprises and create
sustainable jobs.

Through the #MatlakalaKeZaka Campaign, government aims to promote community-led
climate action by encouraging waste separation at source, reducing illegal dumping, restoring
the dignity of towns and villages, and unlocking the economic value of recyclable materials.
Municipalities will also be allocated spot whereby sorted refuse will be collected and allocated
ro recycling processes.

MEC Lenkopane called on households, youth groups, schools, businesses, traditional leaders,
and municipalities to take collective responsibility in protecting the environment and building
climate-resilient communities.

The MEC further acknowledged the contributions of partners including Polyco, PETCO, NorthWest University, municipalities, environmental organisations, and private-sector stakeholders,
for their continued support in advancing recycling and environmental awareness initiatives in
the province.

The #MatlakalaKeZaka Campaign invites every resident of the North West to be part of
building a cleaner and greener future — because meaningful climate action begins at the with
us.

Ends.

Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and
Tourism
For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng (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 Bitsa Lenkopane, together with Mr Risuna Maluleke, CEO of the Young African
Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI), and Local Councillor Ms Montewa Sisco, officiated the
handover of training certificates and R10 000 grant support to 30 informal traders from the
Greater Taung Local Municipality.

The ceremony, hosted on 13 March 2026, followed the successful completion of the Practical
Formalisation of Informal Business Training Programme, facilitated by the Department of
Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) in partnership
with YAEI, and held at the Depot Hall in Taung.

The programme targeted food-related informal traders, including vendors selling vegetables
and fruits, cooked food, snacks, chickens, and other animal products.
This initiative forms part of the Department’s ongoing commitment to empower local traders
with practical business skills, enabling them to improve credibility, safety standards, and
operational systems – key elements for accessing broader markets, funding opportunities, and
compliance requirements necessary for business growth.

Addressing the beneficiaries, MEC Lenkopane commended the traders for embracing the
opportunity to participate in the training programme, noting that such initiatives are critical for
strengthening small businesses.
“Government has identified and prioritised skills development as a key intervention required
to stimulate sustainable growth of small businesses. Training programmes offered by
government and its partners are essential for long-term business survival, improved
productivity, and increased profitability, enabling innovation and entrepreneurs to remain
competitive even against larger companies,” said the MEC.

She further encouraged traders not to underestimate the importance of their businesses,
highlighting the vital role played by township and village enterprises. “Your businesses may
be small, but they play a significant role in restoring dignity and sustaining communities. For
many years, township and village businesses have supported families, paid school fees, and
contributed to local livelihoods,” she said.

The MEC noted that during a time when economic growth in the province remains slower than
anticipated and unemployment levels remain high, government is looking to communities and
small enterprises to take advantage of available support programmes aimed at strengthening
and expanding businesses. “We remain committed to supporting small businesses because
they play a critical role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and alleviating poverty,” she
added. She also encouraged traders to formalise their businesses, which would allow them to
qualify for other government support programmes aimed at business expansion and
sustainability.

Today’s certification ceremony also fulfils one of the commitments made during the MEC’s
Budget Speech, where she emphasised the Department’s intention to strengthen partnerships
with institutions of higher learning and the private sector. These include organisations such as
YAEI, North-West University (NWU), ABSA, and other partners, to collaborate on business
incubation, innovation, and the development of entrepreneurial youth who can drive
measurable socio-economic impact through active participation in the economy.
Speaking at the event, YAEI CEO, Mr Maluleke expressed appreciation to the Department for
the partnership, noting that the collaboration would contribute significantly to the growth of
township and rural economies.

He further indicated that the current incubation programme marks the first collaborative project
between the Department and YAEI targeting informal traders, adding that the organisation
looks forward to expanding the initiative to other local municipalities and scaling up the
programme in the future.

Ends.

Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and
Tourism
For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng (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

The North West Climate Change Provincial Workshop was hosted by the North West
Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation & Tourism on 23 and 24
February 2026 at the Mmabatho Convention Centre, where the Department engaged a wide
range of stakeholders on the draft North West Climate Change Strategy and Implementation
Plan.

MMC Cllr Wesley Kgang, from the City of Matlosana Local Municipality, delivered the keynote
address on behalf of MEC Bitsa Lenkopane. The workshop reflects the Department’s
commitment to strengthening coordinated climate action and building resilience in line with the
newly enacted Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act 22 of 2024).

Key stakeholders in attendance include the Department’s strategic partner, North-West
University; the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE); the
Department of Tourism; various provincial departments; and representatives from the South
African Local Government Association (SALGA), as well as district and local municipalities.

Industry role players such as Africa Geo-Environmental Engineering and Science (AGES
Alpha), the Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA),
and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) are also participating and
contributing to the discussions.

The draft North West Climate Change Strategy and Implementation Plan remains subject to
the finalisation of the Technical Guidelines for Climate Change Needs and Response
Assessments by DFFE, which will support the full implementation of the Climate Change Act.
As the custodian of environmental management in the Province, DEDECT is committed to
finalising this Strategy to guide institutions in integrating climate change considerations into
planning and decision-making.

Stakeholders emphasised that climate change must be treated as a serious and systemic
threat affecting human health, global security, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Its impacts are
already visible in our communities — intensifying extreme weather events such as floods and
droughts, worsening food and water insecurity, displacing communities, and reversing
development gains.

Addressing climate change is therefore essential to safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring a
sustainable future for all.
The second day of the North West Climate Change Provincial Workshop continued, building
on the strong foundation established during Day 1 engagements.

The workshop deepened the discussion on the Draft North West Climate Change Strategy
and Implementation Plan, from the presentation by DEDECT, providing stakeholders with an
opportunity to engage constructively on its strategic priorities, implementation pathways, and
alignment with national legislative frameworks.

A key highlight of the day was a presentation by the South African Local Government
Association (SALGA), which outlined ongoing climate change initiatives being implemented at
the local government level. These projects underscored the vital role municipalities play as
frontline responders to the climate-related challenges facing communities.

The workshop also transitioned into plenary sessions facilitated by representatives from North
West University. These sessions promoted collaborative engagement, enabling stakeholders
to identify key priorities and contribute to solution-oriented discussions aimed at shaping a
coordinated provincial response to climate change.

Discussions throughout the day reaffirmed that effective climate governance depends on
integrated planning, shared accountability, and strong cross-sector partnerships.
Stakeholders, including DEDECT’s Environmental Clubs, North West University (NWU),
UniAppSA, Ramotse Services, and
Africa Geo-Environmental Engineering and Science (AGES Alpha) are also participating in
exhibition activities alongside the formal programme. These exhibitions showcase innovations
focused on the circular economy, sustainable materials, and digital solutions as key
interventions for mitigating the impacts of climate change, while also providing educational
insights on reducing environmental impact.

Ends.
Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and
Tourism
For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng (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

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and
Tourism (DEDECT), led by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane and Head of Department Mr Relebohile
Mofokane, yesterday hosted the provincial World Consumer Rights Day celebration in
Matlosana.

The event brought together government representatives, taxi associations, regulators, civil
society organisations and industry stakeholders to raise awareness about consumer
protection and strengthen collaboration in safeguarding consumer rights.

World Consumer Rights Day is commemorated annually across the globe to highlight progress
made in advancing consumer rights, promoting consumer confidence and fostering a culture
of responsible consumer behaviour. This year’s celebration is held under the theme
“Consumers’ Right to Receive Goods that are Free from Defects,” with the province placing
particular focus on challenges faced by consumers in motor vehicle transactions, especially
in the purchase of second-hand vehicles.

Delivering the keynote address, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane emphasised the importance of
educating consumers about their rights and responsibilities when purchasing goods or
entering into contractual agreements.
“The right to receive goods that are free from defects is a fundamental consumer right. Every
consumer deserves quality, safety, dignity and honesty in the marketplace,” said MEC
Lenkopane.

She further noted that consumers across the province continue to face challenges, particularly
with second-hand motor vehicles that are sold with hidden mechanical defects, undisclosed
histories or faults that only become apparent shortly after purchase.
“These practices leave many consumers with unexpected repair costs, ongoing financial
burdens and unnecessary hardship. As government, it is our responsibility to ensure that
businesses operate fairly and that consumers are protected from unfair and unjust trade
practices,” she added.

MEC Lenkopane also outlined the critical role played by the North West Provincial Consumer
Affairs Court, which continues to provide relief to consumers through dispute resolution,
mediation and the enforcement of consumer protection legislation.
She further referenced a recent case where the court ruled in favour of a consumer who had
purchased a defective motor vehicle. Following an investigation and mediation process by the
Consumer Affairs Office, the court ordered that the sale agreement be cancelled and that the
consumer be refunded the purchase price.

“This case demonstrates that the Consumer Affairs Court remains a vital platform for justice,
ensuring that suppliers are held accountable and that consumers receive redress when their
rights are violated,” MEC Lenkopane said.

The event was held in partnership with key stakeholders including View 4 You, the Motor
Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA), the National Credit Regulator (NCR), the
National Consumer Tribunal (NCT), the National Financial Ombud Scheme South Africa
(NFO), the South African Police Service (SAPS), as well as the Klerksdorp Motor Dealership
Association.

The Department further indicated that it will intensify compliance inspections in the motor
industry through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, including SAPS, MIOSA and other
national regulators, to ensure that dealerships comply with consumer protection legislation
and that unsafe or defective vehicles are not sold to communities.

In addition to enforcement efforts, DEDECT will continue to expand consumer education and
awareness campaigns across the province, particularly targeting vulnerable and rural
communities, to ensure that consumers are informed about their rights and the mechanisms
available to report unfair practices.

Consumers are also urged to exercise responsible consumer behaviour by reading and
understanding contractual agreements before signing and by reporting defective goods within
the six-month statutory period provided for in the Consumer Protection Act.

Ends.

Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and
Tourism
For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng (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