By STAFF REPORTER
17 February 2026- The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane has today formally received a memorandum from liquor traders who marched to the department’s offices in Mahikeng to raise concerns on the on the North West Liquor Licensing Act 06 of 2016, which came into effect in April 2025. Lenkopane said the key issue raised is an increase in the annual renewal fees to R2000.
She further said the memorandum submitted by representatives of liquor traders operating in Mahikeng and the surrounding areas, outlines several key concerns, including an increase in licence renewal fees, a request to extend the renewal deadline, financialsupport measures for traders, and clarity on the transitional arrangements provided for in the new legislation. She added that the traders have given the her 48 hours to provide a formal response.
“We acknowledge the concerns raised and confirmed government’s commitment to constructive engagement and due process. We appreciate the orderly manner in which the liquor traders have exercised their constitutional right to engage with the government.
“I will be consulting with the Liquor Board and the management of the department to ensure that we make an informed, fair and responsible decision in responding to the issues raised in the memorandum within the stipulated timeframe,” said Lenkopane.
Lenkopane emphasised that the consultative process is critical to ensure that any response considers legislative requirements, the sustainability of the liquor industry, and the broader public interest. She further reaffirmed that the implementation of the North West Liquor Licensing Act is aimed at strengthening regulation, promoting responsible trading, and ensuring the sustainability and transformation of the liquor industry to contribute the economy of the province.
“The department will ensure that liquor traders are in compliant with business legislative prescripts to able to access government support programmes for creation of jobs to the people of the North West.
“The department has urged all stakeholders to allow the engagement process to unfold and has reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness, and cooperative governance,” she added.
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