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Ms. Bitsa Lenkopane, the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), graced the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme as a guest speaker held on 07 August 2024. The event, hosted by the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI) in collaboration with Absa South Africa, gathered aspiring entrepreneurs at the NWU – North-West University Potchefstroom Campus.
The Youth Entrepreneurship Programme is dedicated to equipping and developing young entrepreneurs within the province, providing them with the necessary tools to expand their businesses and effectively position themselves in the marketplace. This initiative is vital for fostering economic growth and job creation.
Established as a registered youth non-profit organization, the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute aims to empower the youth by offering practical skills, organized knowledge, and proactive support. The institute’s mission is to facilitate a seamless transition for young individuals from entrepreneurial ideas to business startups, ultimately driving measurable impact within the community.
The collaboration between YAEI and Absa Bank serves to challenge the notion that banks exclusively prioritize partnerships with large corporations. Absa’s representative highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting emerging organizations and facilitating access to funding for young entrepreneurs striving to develop their businesses.
In her address, MEC Lenkopane underscored the significance of DEDECT’s involvement in such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between government and the private sector. This partnership is crucial for identifying and funding economic growth programs that serve public interests.
Furthermore, she encouraged young entrepreneurs and stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen the economy collectively. MEC Lenkopane reiterated the importance of utilizing the services offered by DEDECT, which are designed to support and nurture young talent as they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys.
The Youth Entrepreneurship Programme represents a pivotal moment for young entrepreneurs in the province, fostering connections and opportunities that will propel them towards success.

DEDECT and the North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPT&B) honored the bravery and dedication of game rangers at the World Ranger Day Celebration, held at Laboheme, Vaalkop Nature Reserve near Rustenburg on 07 August 2024.
This year’s event focused on the global “30 by 30” initiative, a commitment to protect 30% of the world’s land and sea by 2030. Our rangers are at the forefront of achieving this ambitious goal.
Addressing the gathering, MEC Bitsa Lenkopane hailed rangers as the unsung heroes of conservation. “They put their lives on the line daily to safeguard biodiversity, monitor wildlife, and provide essential services,” said the MEC. The MEC further emphasised that rangers inspire hope for the planet’s future through their innovative conservation practices and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions of women rangers in protecting our natural heritage. DEDECT and the NWPT&B commend all rangers for their tireless efforts and support their vital work.

MEC Bitsa Lenkopane, accompanied by the Mahikeng Local Municipality Executive Mayor Tshepiso Mphehlo, NWGB Acting CEO Boitumelo Qalinge, and officials from the department and gambling board, officiated the handover of donations to Sebopiwa Molema Secondary, Phakisang Primary School, and Legae Motheo Child and Youth Care Centre as part of her Nelson Mandela Month and 100 Days Programme.
These much-needed essentials were pledged by the North West Gambling Board last week during the Departmental Nelson Mandela Day celebration and MEC’s 100 Days Programme Launch at the Mmabatho Convention Centre.
Legae Motheo Child and Youth Care Centre, an NPO serving destitute, vulnerable, abandoned, neglected, exploited, abused, and orphaned children from 0-18 years old, received groceries, heaters, mattresses, mattress covers, ironing boards, pots, duvet covers, TV screens, and other electrical equipment. This donation was made possible by the contributions from NWGB and its licensees. Additionally, NWGB officials and local community members dedicated their 67 minutes of service to cleaning the centre premises, replacing old doors, worn-out tapeiti floor stickers, broken windows, and cooking for the children, among other activities.
Phakisang Primary in Ottoshoop received a donation of a projector, printers, a signage board, 50 Grade R chairs, and 25 tables whilst Sebopiwa Molema Secondary in Signal Hill Village received 5 desktops, 5 sewing machines, a projector, and 2 printers.
In her remarks, MEC Lenkopane indicated that these donations resulted from levies from licensed gambling outlets, emphasizing the importance of supporting licensed gambling outlets which are able to donate to the needy through their Corporate Social Responsibility programme. The MEC also encouraged school learners and community members to stay away from illegal gambling machines found in tuck shops and to report them to the NWGB, as they promote underage gambling.
Addressing the principals, MEC Lenkopane expressed her fulfilment that her department could assist through its agency, NWGB. She further encouraged other South Africans to donate to schools, NPOs, and NGOs, emphasizing that Mandala Month calls for everyone to embody the true spirit of Mandela and contribute to a good cause.

The African continent is widely regarded as the next frontier in small business development, representing immense potential to transform lives, families, and communities. This month, we highlight Kabelo Moloto, a remarkable young entrepreneur and the founder and managing director of Jika Naye Projects. Based in Protea Park, Rustenburg, Moloto embodies the spirit of innovation and perseverance, propelling his company to new heights through creative vision and hard work.

Jika Naye Projects, a 100% black and youth-owned South African company, received essential equipment from the Empowerment Fund, an initiative by the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT). This support marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, enhancing its operations and expanding its impact

Kabelo Moloto holds a BA in Communications from the University of Johannesburg and several diplomas in writing, public relations, marketing, graphic design, and business management, founded Jika Naye Projects in 2010. His academic background and visionary mindset have been instrumental in navigating the challenges in the creative industry.

The company offers a diverse range of services, including graphic design, corporate clothing, sportswear supplies, personal protective equipment, office consumables, corporate gifts, printing, and video production. Despite limited equipment in the past, Moloto’s determination allowed him to maintain quality and fulfill client demands, even if it meant outsourcing to other printers.

The equipment received, valued at R111,500,00 includes a Cotex vinyl cutter and stand, Anycut contour cut software, a heat press, a cap and panel press, a mug press bulk 5 head, a plate press, an Epson sub printer, a color 2 station screen printer, a four-color 2 station printer, a flash ink dryer, an exposure unit, a pad printer, a flash stamp machine, a badge press with two molds, and an A3 guillotine. This investment has enabled Moloto to offer competitive pricing and expand his portfolio to include school uniform design, vehicle branding, and signage.

“I can now confidently say that my pricing is competitive, as I am now servicing other entrepreneurs within my area and surroundings who are still struggling with resources. It’s a value chain,” Kabelo remarked. The influx of equipment has not only improved production efficiency but also increased the company’s client base, particularly in funeral parlours for their vehicle branding.

Moloto’s vision extends beyond business growth. He is committed to community empowerment, aiming to create employment opportunities, particularly for women and people with disabilities operating within his area. He envisions Jika Naye Projects not only thriving within the province but also reaching intentional markets, thereby contributing to employment, skills development, and community upliftment.

Ms. Carol Rasego, the Director for Economic Empowerment, commended Jika Naye Projects for their resilience and encouraged them to maximize the benefits of the new equipment. She highlighted the department’s ongoing support for small businesses and cooperatives, which is crucial for fostering economic growth and enabling local traders to compete in the market. ‘We encourage other young people to follow suit and come up with innovative ideas to assist in reducing the rate of unemployment in the North West Province,’’ said Ms Rasego.

Kabelo Moloto’s journey with Jika Naye Projects is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and community spirit. As the company continues to grow, it stands as a beacon of what young, determined entrepreneurs can achieve with the right support and resources.

Moloto’s story is an inspiration, demonstrating that with vision and hard work, the sky is the limit.

On the 20th April, Four (4) SMMEs in the Moses Kotane Municipality, Bee Mobile Spar Parlour, Black Rose Couture, Marakanelo Travel Tourism and Events, and Sparkle Bubbles Hair Salon, received much needed business equipment after having applied to be assisted through DEDECT. The equipment handover, sponsored by the NWDC took place today at the agency industrial park in Madikwe Village. DEDECT MEC Virginia Tlhapi accompanied by MEC Viola Motsumi and Moses Kotane Mayor Cllr Ralesole Diale officiated the handing over of equipment alongside NWDC CEO Mojalefa Nale and NWGB Acting CEO Moeketsi Senqhi during the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme – Thuntsha Lerole.
MEC Tlhapi addressing the beneficiaries emphasized the importance of taking care of the equipment noting the limited resources available for assistance. She reminded the beneficiaries that the government through this business support programme aims to foster business growth and sustainability, enabling job creation and economic development within the province.
As part of today’s Thuntsha Lerole programme, DEDECT further donated wheelie bins to Mmamorope Primary in Seshibitswe Village and Mosome Primary in Pella Village promoting waste management and environmental sustainability within schools.
The DEDECT Programme also included joint business compliance inspections and awareness roadshows which started on Wednesday, 17th April 2024 reaching out to many businesses in Tlokweng, Pella, Seshibitswe and local schools.
Municipal Health Inspectors enforced strict regulatory standards on non-compliant tuck shops addressing issues such as poor hygiene, improper price display, sale of expired/dented food items and inadequate labelling. Liquor outlets found to be violating the National Liquor Act also received notices of noncompliance.
Tourist officials on the other hand conducted inspections around Pilanesberg National Park, issuing noncompliance notices to tour guide establishments lacking competency certificates or renewal of registration status.
NWGB officials during the inspection registered two cases at Madikwe Police Station against Ethiopian nationals operating tuck shops, for possessing gambling equipment without authorisation or a license, violating Sec 82 of the North West Gambling Act 2 of 2001. The illegal gambling machines found in these tuck shops were confiscated.

MEC for DEDECT Virginia Tlhapi led a crucial meeting on 3 April 2024 with DEDECT Senior Managers and the Management of Bakgatla Gate Resort under the Golden Leopard Resort (GLR) at Bakgatla Gate in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality.

The primary objective was to address the challenges confronting the Golden Leopard Resort, with a particular focus on preventing potential discord among employees, unions, and management regarding salary issues. Through these efforts, the MEC aims to ensure a smooth operational process while developing a sustainable program for GLR.

Amongst the issues discussed was the recent devastating fire within GLR at the Pilanesberg National Park, which caused significant damage. The challenges stemming from the fire include the impact on infrastructure and the urgent need for resort refurbishment.

These difficulties have led to budget constraints, resulting in decreased visitor numbers and challenges in meeting staff salaries. Despite this setback, the meeting discussed concerted efforts to address the situation. MEC Tlhapi, alongside resort management and DEDECT Senior Managers, are actively strategizing to formulate a comprehensive recovery plan.

The Chief Financial Office, along with GLR and the North West Parks & Tourism Board, have all committed to collaborating on implementing this plan in phases. The MEC emphasized that the next meeting with GLR will involve affected unions.

Acknowledging the critical role of the tourism sector in the North West province’s economy, the department reiterates its steadfast commitment to supporting the resort’s recovery efforts.

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) led by MEC Galebekwe Tlhapi is taking a significant step towards accelerating economic growth in the province. A two-day strategic planning session being held in Pilanesberg serves as a springboard for this initiative.
The session brought together senior management from DEDECT and its agencies, including the North West Development Corporation, North West Parks and Tourism Board and the North West Gambling Board. The main objective of the session is to reflect on planning and progresses towards the department’s established targets contained within the Annual Performance Plan (APP) for 2024/25, and ensure alignment to this by all entities. This collaborative approach, championed by MEC Galebekwe Virginia Tlhapi, echoes best practices outlined in the National Development Plan 2030 for aligning departmental performance plans. By fostering clear communication and shared goals, DEDECT aims to streamline operations, avoid duplication of efforts, and ultimately deliver impactful services to the communities it serves.
MEC Tlhapi emphasized that it is critical for the department and its agencies to plan together through these types of sessions.” Through this unified approach, the department and its entities will complement each other by aligning and ensuring the delivery of high-impact services,“ said MEC Tlhapi. MEC further emphasised the importance of tailoring departmental plans to the unique needs of the North West Province, with a strong focus on its rural character. This ensures that service delivery targets are not only achievable but directly address the challenges and opportunities of our communities.
The planning session went beyond initial coordination and enaged strategic priorities with a direct impact on the provincial economy and job creation. Setting achievable targets was key to revitalize and strengthen the overall economic landscape of the North West. This economic upliftment will be pursued in tandem with ensuring a safe and protected environment, which DEDECT recognizes as crucial for long-term economic growth. Finally, fostering a thriving tourism sector is seen as vital for job creation and economic diversification in the province. These actions are connected and work together like a multi-pronged attack on economic challenges in the province.
The session further benefited from the participation of key stakeholders, such as 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). This ensured the accuracy of targets and priorities, leading to a more aligned plan. Ultimately, this collaborative effort will result in a strategic focus on achieving departmental and agency targets that are well-matched with the needs of the province.
Ms. Lebogang Diale, Acting Head of Department, urged management to ensure the Annual Performance Plan (APP) reflects the department’s current efforts. She underscored the need for the APP to be an effective tool in tackling service delivery issues, aligning with the department’s established targets.
This session, coupled with a focus on rural development and clear economic goals, will position the North West Province for a promising future and a real drive to ultimately eliminate inequality, poverty, and high levels of unemployment.

MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism led by Mme Galobekwe Virginia Tlhapi, hosted a Tourism Stakeholder Engagement Session at Royal Marang Hotel in Rustenburg, Bojanala District. The purpose of the session was to solicit inputs towards the finalization of the North West Provincial Tourism Sector Strategy. This approach seeks to provide an insightful platform for the development of a sustainable and thriving tourism sector, benefiting both formal and informal businesses, local communities, and industry players which ultimately will result in economic growth across the four districts.
The engagement welcomed esteemed industry players, including tour operators, game rangers, tour guides, luxury accommodation establishments, and wildlife/adventure enthusiasts. Both local and provincial governments participated in the proceedings, marking a united front to address challenges faced by tourism product owners in the province.
Given North West’s nature-based and rural character, it presents a unique opportunity to explore diverse tourism offerings in unspoiled, tranquil natural habitats. The call for partnership and collaboration among travel agencies and tour operators to promote packaged tours and experiences regionally is underscored.
Furthermore, there was an emphasis on encouraging the development of high-quality and diverse accommodation options to cater to different traveler preferences, from luxury resorts to budget accommodations and eco-friendly lodges.
Speaking on tourism contribution to the economy MEC Tlhapi emphasized the importance of Public Private Partnerships as it allows stakeholders to participate in the finalization of the Provincial Tourism Sector strategy to achieve common goals and interests of reducing the rate of unemployment faced by the province. She also highlighted that big businesses need to offer support to emerging and existing small businesses as they play a big role in the economy and society.
“As department we encourage our SMMEs to actively participate in the improving local economies. Let us strengthen our working relationship for the benefit of the future generation and achieve the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP).
MEC Tlhapi urged the department to continue with the implementation of the Tourism Safety Plan to minimize attacking of tourists by criminals within N4 and R556 routes.
In her closing remarks she pointed out that the province will host “Bojanala Lekgotla as build up to National Tourism indaba as well as intensifying its efforts of ensuring transformation within the tourism industry for the benefit of SMMEs within all the districts of the province.

COOKES LAKE, MAHIKENG – MEC Virginia Tlhapi, responsible for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), officially introduced Mr Mojalefa Nale as the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the North West Development Corporation. (NWDC).
The announcement was made during a special Board Meeting of the NWDC Board of Directors and the executive management of both Department and NWDC recently.
In her address, MEC Tlhapi expressed appreciation to the agency’s Acting CEO, Mr Kabelo Mafokwane, and the board of directors for maintaining the agency’s stability until the appointment of the new term of office of the NWDC CEO. She commended the Board and Management for diligently ensuring the CEO position had been advertised and filled.
MEC Tlhapi highlighted Mr Nale’s familiarity with the province, NWDC, and the Department, citing his previous roles as the acting Head of the Department, Chief Director for the department’s Integrated Economic Development Services, and former CEO of the NWDC, among others.
Mr Mojalefa Nale brings with him passion, enthusiasm and a wealth of experience and knowledge in economic development, leadership and the socio-economic landscape of the North West Province.
Mr Nale is a former CEO and former Acting Chief Operations Officer of the NWDC. He served as the seconded CEO of Invest North West during 2012/13, where he was instrumental in the successful amalgamation of the NWDC, Mahikeng Industrial Development Zone (MIDZ) and former Invest North West into one economic development agency for the North West Province.
Mr Nale holds an MSc in Macro Economic Policy and Planning in Developing Countries from the University of Bradford (UK), a Diploma in Development Economics from the University of Bradford and a Certificate Programme in Law from UNISA, to highlight a few.
Considering his vast experience, MEC Tlhapi urged Mr Nale and the NWDC Board to continue the agency’s efforts to sustain its operations and enhance revenue collection for the province.
“I trust that the board and the management of both the agency and the department will give Mr Nale all the support he needs to revitalize the NWDC. I am relying on you to ensure the NWDC succeeds in its mandate of growing the economy of the North West Province,” MEC Tlhapi emphasized.
Mr Nale o resumed his term of office on the 2nd January 2024, thanked MEC Tlhapi and the NWDC Board of Directors for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the agency’s administrative operations. He accepted the challenge outlined by the MEC and pledged that the NWDC would do everything in its power to realize its mandate of developing and growing the economy for the betterment of the people of North West Province.
ENDS.
Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism
For enquiries please contact:
Departmental Spokesperson,
Mr Jerry Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect
Facebook: @nwdedect

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation & Tourism (DEDECT) has inducted 113 youth Data Capturers to bolster efforts to consolidate and update the North West Business Licensing Database. The two-day workshop, held at Rustenburg Kloof Resort from 15 – 16 November 2023, provided comprehensive training on the roles and responsibilities of Data Capturers, equipping them with the necessary skills to effectively fulfil their duties.
MEC Galebekwe Virginia Tlhapi addressed the Data Capturers with a sense of encouragement and appreciation for their willingness to take on the responsibility of making a positive change in their communities by identifying and addressing illegal tuckshops that operate without licenses or use fraudulent documents.
MEC Tlhapi explained how this initiative will help to combat criminal activities and ensure that all businesses in the province are operating legally and ethically. She emphasized that the Data Capturers will play a crucial role in this process by visiting every business outlet in their assigned areas, and conducting thorough checks to verify their licenses and compliance with regulations.
“Our province is plagued by illegal tuckshops that are not registered and operating without the necessary licences. As the department responsible for regulating businesses, we need assistance in identifying and registering these outlets. This is why we are here today, conducting this induction and workshop, to make sure that everyone involved in this operation has a clear vision and understanding of the goals we are trying to achieve,” MEC Virginia stated.
Ms. Onnicah Sithole, DEDECT’s Chief Director for Business Regulations, also highlighted the importance of this initiative, emphasizing the critical role that the Data Capturers will play in ensuring compliance with the North West Business Licensing Act No. 03 of 2019. “The appointments of these Data Capturers will significantly enhance our ability to verify that all businesses operating within the province are duly licensed with their respective municipalities,” Ms. Sithole stated.
The Data Capturers, who have been appointed for a one-year term, will be responsible for ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements, and escalating any non-compliance issues to the Department’s regulatory divisions.
“We have implemented stringent monitoring mechanisms to oversee the daily activities of our Data Capturers,” Ms. Sithole explained. “They are required to submit weekly reports to their management teams for consolidation and subsequent submission to the department. This will enable us to maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date business licensing database, allowing us to effectively regulate business operations within the province.”
DEDECT urges all business owners to collaborate with the Data Capturers to ensure seamless compliance with the North West Business Licensing Act. By working together, businesses can contribute to a well-regulated business environment that fosters growth and economic prosperity in the North West Province.