Picture: The Hartbeespoort Dam during cleaning session/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
18 September 2024- The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane calls on the Madibeng Local Municipality to strengthen its by-laws and raise awareness of business regulations to ensure peaceful dispute resolution without resorting to violence or property damage.
This comes after a recent violent incident in Hartbeespoort, where properties were set on fire. It is alleged that the incident was sparked by racial tensions.
“We express our deep concern over the recent violent incident. We also acknowledged the racial tensions surrounding the incident, amid allegations that, “Afrikaans-speaking individuals”, are attempting to displace black residents and their businesses from the area.
“The matter has been reported to the police and investigations are currently underway. Transformation is ongoing in the Hartbeespoort area, particularly with the involvement of the Mekgareng Communal Property Association (MCPA) and Oberon Development, following the return of approximately 400 hectares of land to the black community,” she said.
Lenkopane further said the government has already allocated nearly R70 million towards the area’s development, with plans to create a smart city featuring office parks, a five-star hotel and other tourism-enhancing infrastructure. She added that her department remains committed to supporting Mekgareng and Oberon in advancing this significant project.
“The municipality has recorded the highest post-pandemic recovery rate in the province at 65%, particularly Brits and Hartbeespoort Dam. The area’s proximity to Gauteng’s Lanseria and OR Tambo International Airports, offers the North West a strategic advantage in attracting international tourists and revitalizing tourism in the province.
“We cannot allow these violent incidents to derail our recovery efforts, especially during Tourism Month and as we approach the festive season. We affirm that our department will continue collaborating with the Department of Community Safety and Transport, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for tourists,” said Lenkopane.
She said roadblocks will be set up along the N4 and other major routes connecting the North West to neighbouring provinces to enhance security measures. Lenkopane called for those responsible for unlawful activities to be held accountable and urged all parties involved in the Hartbeespoort incidents to allow law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation.
The Guardian 