Lenkopane crack down illegal dumping


Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane/Facebook

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane has intensified its environmental compliance and enforcement programme aimed at addressing illegal dumping, non-compliant landfill sites, environmental pollution and municipal failure to enforce waste management by-laws across the province. Lenkopane said this forms part of her department’s declared 18-day provincial environmental compliance marathon, which has already commenced in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, where environmental compliance inspections and assessments are currently underway.

She further said to date, between two and three municipalities within the district have already been covered, with multiple illegal dumping hotspots, non-compliant waste sites, and areas of environmental concern identified for further intervention and enforcement action. Lenkopane added that the programme focuses not only on municipal compliance, but also on the responsibilities of citizens, businesses and communities in curbing illegal dumping and protecting the environment.

“The department has observed with serious concern the continued deterioration of waste management systems in certain municipalities, the uncontrolled growth of illegal dumping sites, and the increasing environmental and public health risks associated with these practices.

“Of particular concern is the direct linkage between unmanaged waste sites, rodent infestation, flies, and harmful organisms that contaminate communities, shops, storage facilities, and food handling areas, contributing to food safety risks and incidents of food poisoning,” she said.

Lenkopane said illegal dumping and poor waste management practices are further contributing to environmental degradation, pollution and climate change pressures, while undermining the constitutional right of communities to a clean and healthy environment. She said her department reiterates that municipalities have a direct legal responsibility to implement and enforce waste management bylaws, maintain compliant landfill operations, and ensure proper waste disposal systems within their jurisdictions.

“We have instructed the department to strengthen inspections, compliance monitoring, and enforcement measures in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) and the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. The department will intensify environmental compliance inspections, enforcement of landfill licensing conditions and monitoring of municipal waste management systems.

“This includes identification of illegal dumping hotspots, compliance verification against Integrated Waste Management Plans, issuing of directives and compliance notices and recommendations for enforcement action where violations persist,” said Lenkopane.

She said municipalities found to be operating unlawful or non-compliant landfill sites or municipalities failing to act against illegal dumping and environmental pollution, may face consequences in terms of environmental legislation. Lenkopane said the province is entering a new phase of environmental enforcement and accountability.

“The culture of neglect, uncontrolled dumping, and failure to enforce by-laws cannot continue. We further emphasised that while DEDECT remains committed to providing intergovernmental relations support, technical assistance and environmental compliance guidance to municipalities, this support must not be interpreted as a substitute for municipal accountability.

“The department will support municipalities where support is required, but municipalities must execute their constitutional and legislative responsibilities. Where there is continued disregard for environmental compliance obligations, the department will not hesitate to act within the provisions of the law,” she said.

Lenkopane said the department confirmed that the 18-day compliance marathon will continue across other districts of the province as part of a broader environmental compliance, public awareness and waste management intervention programme under the “Matlakala ke Zaka” campaign. She said communities are encouraged to work together with government in reporting illegal dumping activities and protecting the environment for present and future generations.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane to officially publish North West Hunting Regulations  


Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 May 2026 – In a decisive move to strengthen environmental governance, unlock economic opportunities, and enhance revenue generation, the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane will officially publish the North West Hunting Regulations, 2026 in the Provincial Gazette on 1 May 2026. Lenkopane said this milestone follows the conclusion of all required processes, with the regulations already submitted to Government Printing Works for publication.

She said the department will further communicate the details through various media platforms, including newspapers and stakeholder engagements, where the full implications and operational details will be unpacked. Lenkopane added that the gazetting of these regulations marks a new era for the province—one that balances sustainable environmental management with economic growth, while providing long-awaited regulatory certainty to the wildlife and hunting industry.

“The 2026 Hunting Regulations are a strategic instrument aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the wildlife sector, enhancing investor confidence, creating structured revenue streams, and supporting growth in game farming, eco-tourism, and hunting industries.

“The regulations recognise the critical role of traditional leaders, communal landowners, private operators, and local communities. This ensures inclusive participation and economic opportunities, particularly in rural areas,” she said.

Lenkopane said the regulations build on the Online Electronic Biodiversity Permit System. She said training has been conducted with stakeholders and businesses.

“The system allows real-time reporting of challenges. A System Testing and Support Committee will be announced to ensure efficient, reliable, and uninterrupted service.

“The province will establish clear hunting seasons, quotas, and compliance mechanisms, ensuring responsible and sustainable utilisation of wildlife resources,” said Lenkopane.

She said all stakeholders are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the regulations and participate in upcoming engagements.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Concerns raised over implementation of Biodiversity Permit System


Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said she has noted concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the recent implementation of the Biodiversity Permit System (CivicPAL) in the province. Lenkopane said the department has received feedback indicating that users are experiencing challenges with system access, registration and the submission of permit applications.

“These concerns arise at a particularly important time as the province enters a key period of the hunting tourism season. The MEC acknowledges the importance of a well-functioning permitting system during this period and wishes to assure stakeholders that the matter is receiving immediate attention.

“An urgent internal engagement has been convened with the relevant departmental units, permitting officials, and technical teams to obtain a full report on the implementation of the system and the challenges being experienced,” she said.

Lenkopane further said the department is currently undertaking a focused assessment, including a review of all relevant documentation, technical processes and operational arrangements, in order to identify the causes of the current challenges and implement appropriate corrective measures. She added that in the interim, the department is working to ensure continuity in the processing of permit applications and will communicate further guidance to stakeholders as soon as possible.

“We remain committed to ensuring that the biodiversity permitting system operates efficiently and supports both conservation objectives and economic activity in the province.  Further updates will be provided following the conclusion of the current assessment.

“The department appreciates the cooperation and understanding of stakeholders during this period,” said Lenkopane.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane swears in Gambling Board and Liquor Authority


Picture: New Boards members taking oaths/Supplied

By STAFF REPORTER

21 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, has today officiated the formal swearing-in ceremony of the newly-appointed Board Members of the North West Gambling Board and the North West Liquor Authority at Sun City Resort, near Rustenburg.

Lekopane said the swearing-in marks a critical governance milestone aimed at strengthening oversight, accountability and effective regulation within the province’s gambling and liquor sectors. She further said the two Boards play a strategic role in ensuring compliance with legislation, promoting responsible trading practices, protecting communities and contributing to economic growth and revenue generation.

“The weight of responsibility entrusted to the new Board Members, describing the oath of office as a solemn commitment to serve with integrity, discipline, and accountability. There is seriousness of commitment undertaken by the Board Members.

“This oath is not ceremonial, it demands loyalty, integrity, and discipline requires that you always act in a manner that is beyond reproach. The gambling and liquor sectors remain highly sensitive, operating at the intersection of economic activity and social responsibility,” added Lenkopane.

She called on the Boards to strike a careful balance between industry growth and addressing societal challenges. Lenkopane said the North West Liquor Authority, through its Board, is responsible for adjudicating liquor license applications and ensuring compliance with trading conditions across approximately 8,000 licensed establishments in the province, including taverns, pubs, night clubs, liquor restaurants, accommodation establishments and bottle stores.

“Similarly, the North West Gambling Board is mandated to regulate the gambling industry through licensing, compliance monitoring, and enforcement, while combating illegal gambling activities and protecting vulnerable groups, particularly young people.

“The Gambling Board is in a stable state with a clean audit and strong performance. We call on the new Board to build on this foundation. We are handing over an institution that is stable and performing well,” she said.

Lenkopane said this must be protected and improved. She said they will not accept regression.

“The responsibility now rests with you to restore confidence and demonstrate professionalism. I want to issue a firm warning against misconduct and weak enforcement. There must be no corruption, no selective enforcement and no inaction.

“We expect these Boards to regulate fairly, act decisively against non-compliance, and contribute to rebuilding public trust. The appointment of the Boards fulfils a commitment made during the 2025/26 Budget Speech to strengthen governance, improve accountability and enhance the performance of departmental entities,” said Lenkopane.

She further announced that a 15 to 18-day compliance operation will be rolled out across districts, focusing on illegal gambling, unlawful liquor trading and strengthening inspections. Lenkopane said this forms part of efforts to reposition compliance as a pathway to economic empowerment, ensuring that liquor outlets are properly licensed and registered, while decisively addressing non-compliant practices, including proxy operations.

“The department will intensify compliance monitoring in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, including targeted operations to address illegal gambling and unlawful liquor trading.

“These efforts are also aimed at contributing to the reduction of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), often linked to substance abuse,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

An outcry over illegal mining, unauthorised wash plants and regulatory gaps


By REGINALD KANYANE

31 March 2026 – The North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism has raised serious concerns regarding the increasing number of illegal mining activities and unauthorised chrome wash plants operating across the province, particularly in the Bojanala and Madibeng areas.

The concerns emerged during an engagement between the Committee and the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), where several regulatory, environmental and enforcement challenges were highlighted.

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on (DEDECT), Mpho Khunou said they noted with concern that the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) regulations are allegedly being abused due to regulatory gaps and grey areas relating to the authorisation and regulation of chrome wash plants. Khunou said the committee has requested the department to take it through the regulations clause by clause and outline recommendations to address the regulatory gaps, including whether amendments to Section 24G of NEMA or new regulations are required.

“The committee further raised concerns about the environmental impact of illegal wash plants, including water pollution, illegal discharge into rivers, air pollution, land degradation and unsafe excavations, which negatively affect communities and municipal infrastructure.

“Members also expressed concern that illegal mining activities continue despite existing legislation, and that enforcement actions rarely lead to prosecutions and convictions,” he said.

Khunou said according to the department, approximately 70 chrome wash plants have been inspected in the 2025/26 financial year, of which about 30 were found to be operating without environmental authorisation. He further said the department has opened seven criminal cases with SAPS and issued several pre-compliance notices to operators, some of whom have committed to apply for rectification in terms of Section 24G of NEMA.

“However, the committee raised concern over delays in payment of fines, appeals processes, and the slow pace of enforcement. The committee also raised serious concerns about the department’s limited capacity, noting that there are currently only three compliance inspectors in the Bojanala District, which is insufficient to monitor the increasing number of mining and wash plant operations in the area.

“Another major concern raised was the lack of coordination between government institutions responsible for enforcement, including the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, South African Police Service (SAPS), Home Affairs, Water and Sanitation, municipalities, Traditional Authorities and other regulatory bodies,” added Khunou.

He said the committee noted that fragmented enforcement and poor coordination contribute to the continued operation of illegal mining activities and unauthorised wash plants. Khunou said some concerns were also highlighted that many wash plant operations are allegedly run by foreign nationals operating illegally in the country, and called for intensified joint operations involving Home Affairs and the Department of Labour to address illegal operators and labour compliance issues.

“Furthermore, the committee raised concerns about delays in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) application processes, poor quality submissions by consultants, non-compliance with licence conditions and allegations of corruption and bribery in licensing and inspection processes.

“The committee requested the department to provide full details on fines issued, operators involved, compliance notices issued, and timelines for ensuring that illegal operations are either compliant or shut down,” he said.

Khunou said the situation relating to illegal mining and unauthorised wash plants in the North West is extremely concerning. He said communities are suffering environmental damage, water pollution and unsafe mining activities, while the province is not benefiting economically from these operations.

“We are particularly concerned about regulatory gaps, lack of enforcement capacity and poor coordination between institutions. The Committee will continue to push for stronger regulations, improved enforcement, a full audit of mining activities in the province and better coordination among all government departments involved,” said Khunou.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane strengthens accountability and accelerate service delivery


Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane/Supplied 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

19 March 2026- The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), together with its entities, the North West Parks and Tourism Board, North West Gambling Board and North West Development Corporation, has convened a high-level strategic planning session to reset priorities, strengthen accountability and accelerate service delivery for the 2026/27 financial year.

The two-day session took place from 17–18 March 2026 at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng and brought together key stakeholders from national and provincial departments, as well as state entities, to align on a clear programme of action.

The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane said at the centre of the discussions is the development of the Annual Performance Plan (APP) and Annual Operational Plan (AOP), with a focus on measurable outcomes, responsiveness to community needs, and improved service delivery. Setting a firm tone, Lenkopane emphasised that the process must mark a decisive shift from routine compliance to real impact.

“This cannot be business as usual. We need to reposition the department as the engine of economic development, as our communities are running out of patience. This session must correct our course, sharpen our priorities and produce a plan that is measurable, implementable and responsive to the real needs of our people.

“There is a need to reposition the department and its entities to respond directly to socio-economic challenges, adding that alignment with the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy is critical to ensuring accountability,” she said.

Lenkopane further said job creation as the department’s flagship priority, calling for targeted interventions that unlock opportunities for SMMEs, township enterprises and youth. She added that in reinforcing a culture of accountability and performance, she recognised programmes that achieved 100% targets in Quarters 2 and 3 of the 2025/26 financial year, while the North West Parks and Tourism Board was acknowledged as the most improved entity.

“Despite the department achieving a record-breaking performance of over 91% in Quarter 3, we caution against complacency. This improvement is commendable, but it is not the destination. We must elevate our performance and ensure that every target translates into real impact in the lives of our people.

“Departmental plans must deliver tangible outcomes, including inclusive economic growth, a strengthened tourism sector, sustainable use of biodiversity resources, and effective environmental conservation,” said Lenkopane.

She said the session concluded with the adoption of a clear implementation plan and monitoring framework, placing community impact, including job creation, access to services, quality of delivery and citizen satisfaction at the centre of departmental performance.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

DEDECT to expand consumer awareness campaign


By REGINALD KANYANE 

8 March 2026- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said 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. Lenkopane said these practices leave many consumers with unexpected repair costs, ongoing financial burdens and unnecessary hardship. 

She further said as a government, it is their responsibility to ensure that businesses operate fairly and that consumers are protected from unfair and unjust trade practices. Lenkopane added that the North West Provincial Consumer Affairs Court continues to play a critical role, which continues to provide relief to consumers through dispute resolution, mediation and the enforcement of consumer protection legislation.

“There was 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,” she said.  

Lenkopane said her department 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. She said 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.

“A 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,” said Lenkopane.

She said the province is placing particular focus on challenges faced by consumers in motor vehicle transactions, especially in the purchase of second-hand vehicles. Lenkopane said it is important to educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities when purchasing goods or entering into contractual agreements.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane advances investment efforts for North West


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 February 2026- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said is advancing its investment attraction programme at the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba, where a series of bilateral engagements yielded tangible outcomes and culminated in the several strategic investment opportunities towards industrialization. Lenkopane said the province’s participation reflects a deliberate effort to chart a new path for investment that places communities at the centre of economic activity and ensures that local beneficiaries play an active and meaningful role in the provincial economy.

During the Indaba, Lenkopane and Head of Department (HOD), Relebohile Mofokane has been engaging industry leaders, investors and partners across the exhibition floor, usingevery interaction to profile the North West as a competitive and investment ready province. Lenkopane’s walkabout through the exhibition hall created opportunities for continuous dialogue with mining companies, technology innovators, financiers, and other role players, while also showcasing the depth of investment opportunities at the North West exhibition stall.

“These engagements highlighted district level strengths and emphasised the province’s

readiness to welcome transformative investment. We also held several strategic meetings with investors and partners.

“Day one included fruitful engagements with Glencore Empire Investment Bank, Shaanxi Non-Ferrous Metals Group, Valterra Platinum, Sibanye-Stillwater and Limpopo Provincial Government. Day two consisted of bilateral’s with Glencore, Free State Provincial Givernemnt and many others which are actively working with the department to advance economic interests,” she said.

Lenkopane further said the sessions

explored investment prospects in mineral beneficiation, manufacturing, renewable energy,

agro-processing, and community development initiatives. She added that through these engagements, she reinforced that the North West is land ready, infrastructure ready, SEZ ready and Special

Purpose Vehicle (SPV) ready, with a portfolio of opportunities geared toward job creation,economic diversification, and inclusive local growth.

“A notable feature of the first day was a high-level bilateral meeting with Glencore CEO,

Jappie Fullard. During this bilateral and others, parties reaffirmed their commitment tostrengthening collaboration, expanding the province’s investment pipeline, and advancing the development of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ).

“The discussions underscored a shared vision to promote local industrial participation and ensure that mining related investments and

post mining economic plans and environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria bring

direct benefits to communities across the province,” said Lenkopane.

She emphasised the significance of the province’s mission at the Indaba, noting that DEDECT is actively reshaping the investment landscape to open new opportunities for local stakeholders. Lenkopane highlighted that this platform creates unmatched opportunities for the province to foster strategic investment partnerships, drive local market expansion, beneficiation, explore post mining opportunities and secure long-term sustainable growth within the province.

“With over 1,400 mining companies, 1,300 investors, and more than 300 exhibitors, this is the

premier platform where deals are made and where both power and capital converge, creating

unmatched opportunities for strategic partnerships, market expansion, and long-term

sustainable growth.

“We further highlighted that the province is committed to building partnerships that drive

sustainable development and broaden economic participation,” she said.

Lenkopane said through deliberate investment, facilitation, the department is laying the groundwork for communities, cooperatives, SMMEs,

and local suppliers to participate more fully in the province’s economic value chains.

“As the Mining Indaba continues, the North West delegation remains focused on attracting investment, expanding opportunities, promoting local beneficiation and positioning the province as a destination where every investment opportunity translates into real, measurable

development on the ground,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi targets the Mining Africa Indaba to lure investments


By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 February 2026- A high level delegation of the North West Provincial Government led by Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi accompanied the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, is expected to engage with Industry Leaders in Mining on the side lines of the Mining Africa Indaba currently underway in Cape Town. The North West province is positioning itself as an ideal and preferred destination for investments and expansion in mining operations.

Mokgosi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said the province forms part of the world largest belt, which boasts 70% of reserves in Platinum Group Metal Groups (PGMs). Tatai said issues ranging from mineral beneficiation, social labour plans, preferential procurement for small enterprises are expected to top the agenda of the meetings.

“Of critical importance is the commercialisation of the Bojanala Special Economic Special Zone for long term partnership in areas such as mineral processing, services and specialised equipment.

“The creation of logistical hubs and corridors which link the province with other commercially sound regions on the African continent and Southern African Developing Community (SADC) will also occupy centre stage during discussions,” he said.

Tatai further said Mokgosi maintains government is gearing itself up to commercialise the province’s two airports as part of its ongoing efforts to see to the full implementation of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ). He added that, with the Growth and Development Strategy officially adopted by the Executive Council, Mokgosi believes the province is more than ready to the turn tide against low investment patterns bedevilling its developmental trajectory.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane approaches DBSA for assistance in SEZ revitalisation


Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane along delegates/Facebook

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 January 2026- In a significant move toward the road to Special Economic Zone (SEZ) designation application and industrial park revitalization, the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane led a high-level delegation on an engagement with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) at its head office today. Lenkopane said she met with the DBSA team, led by Chief Risk Officer (CRO), Mpho Kubelo and was joined by DEDECT Head of Department (HOD), Relebohile Mofokane, NWDC acting CEO, Thapelo Mokotedi and various officials from the department and its entities.

She further said the engagement focused on a structured partnership process aimed at unlocking industrial development outcomes while simultaneously resolving institutional financial exposures. Lenkopane added that this strategic approach is designed to transform the province’s industrial assets into functional, well-managed anchors for investment and local economic development with the assistance of DBSA and key stakeholders.

“Central to this vision is the revitalization of three key industrial hubs that serve as the foundation for the province’s growth. The Bodirelo Industrial Site is being positioned as a future-facing growth platform specifically aligned to the SEZ designation pathway, with plans already underway to address bulk infrastructure constraints such as water and electricity supply.

“Simultaneously, the partnership targets the Babelegi and Ga-Rankuwa Industrial Parks for focused turnaround and stabilization interventions to restore industrial activity and improve revenue collection. Restoring these sites is essential for the designation application of the Bojanala SEZ, as well as job creation, SMME development, and industrialisation, noting that when these assets are functional, they serve as vital anchors for local communities,” she said.

Lenkopane said to ensure these plans move from proposal to reality, a Technical Task Team will be formally introduced to operationalize the solution through clear deliverables and accountability mechanisms. She said this team, which includes representatives from DEDECT, NWDC, DBSA, National Treasury, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Gauteng Provincial Government and City of Tshwane, is mandated to finalize infrastructure and settlement packages within a 30-day solution sprint.

“The collaborative effort will also foresee the operationalisation of the Infrastructure Development Fund to support bulk utility upgrades, ensuring that the North West accelerates its industrial growth and remains a competitive destination for investment,” said Lenkopane.

taungdailynews@gmail.com