Tag Archives: Environment

Irked liquor traders give North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane 48 hours to respond to their grievances

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Picture: Liquor traders marched to the North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane’s office in Mahikeng/Supplied

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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North West Legislature Committee on Economic Development to Engage SIU and NWDC on Status of Christiana All Seasons Resort

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Mpho Khunou/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

16 February 2026- The North West Legislature Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism has resolved to convene a meeting with the North West Development Corporation (NWDC), the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and other relevant stakeholders to solicit detailed findings on the status of the Christiana All Seasons Resort. This resolution follows an oversight visit conducted by the committee at the Christiana All Seasons Resort to assess progress since the facility was acquired by the NWDC in 2015.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Mpho Khunou said during the visit, the committee raised serious concerns regarding the uncertainty surrounding the full extent of the land purchased by the NWDC, including discrepancies linked to the original auction process. Khunou said the committee further noted with concern that the department did not conduct an audit of the resort’s assets nor adequately account for the company’s obligations relating to maintenance and upgrading of the facility, as stipulated in the initial lease agreement.

“The department had previously entered into a lease agreement with a company trading as 360 Degrees, which concluded in November 2023 and was subsequently converted into a month-to-month contract. The committee observed that no asset audits were conducted during either the initial lease period or the month-to-month arrangement.

“In response, the committee advised the department to urgently conduct a comprehensive audit of all assets associated with the resort. The committee also engaged with local SMMEs, who raised concerns regarding the poor state of maintenance and upgrading of the facility, particularly the damaged fencing between the resort and an adjacent game farm,” he said.

Khunou further said the compromised fencing has reportedly resulted in wildlife straying onto the N12 national road, posing a serious risk to motorists. He added that the committee further interacted with representatives from 360 Degrees, who provided a guided tour of the facility and presented a detailed report on renovations undertaken.

“However, the company also raised concerns regarding the lack of clarity on the full extent of the property acquired during the auction from the original owner—an issue similarly highlighted in the SIU’s preliminary findings. Following deliberations, the committee also considered medium- to long-term plans for the future of the resort, including the possible transfer of the facility to the North West Parks and Tourism Board for management and operation.

“We believe that a final decision on the long-term future of these assets cannot be delayed any further. The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) must act decisively and resolve this matter expeditiously,” said Khunou.

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Lenkopane advances investment efforts for North West

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North West MEC DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

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.

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

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

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.

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A clear roadmap to transform Mogwase Shopping Complex

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Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By AGISANANG SCUFF

23 January 2026- In an effort to address the operational challenges at the Mogwase Shopping Complex, the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane held a stakeholder engagement for business operators at the Bakgatla Resort in Pilanesberg. Lenkopane was joined by the acting CEO of the North West Development Corporation (NWDC), Thapelo Mokotedi and the NWDC property team.

She further said the meeting served as a direct follow-up to her oversight visit in December 2025, where she assessed the state of the facility and observed the vital role in supporting livelihoods through its diverse range of enterprises, small businesses and taxi operations.  Lenkopane added that she acknowledged the current state of the facility, signalling the department’s full awareness of the infrastructure and maintenance issues that have hindered its performance.

“The engagement served as a platform for tenants and operators to present the concerns they face, ensuring that the provincial government’s intervention is directly informed by the lived realities of those on the ground.

“During the session, we emphasised that the department is moving swiftly to transition the complex from its current state toward a path of comprehensive renewal, using a phased approach coupled with public-private partnership to unlock development,” she said.

Lenkopane said to facilitate this, a technical task team was previously deployed to conduct a professional assessment of the facility’s risks and requirements. She said this committee has now submitted a formal report detailing the specific mechanisms needed to stabilize and upgrade the complex.

“We can confirm that a strategic plan based on these findings will be shared with stakeholders, outlining a clear roadmap to transform the Mogwase Shopping Complex into a well-serving, modern economic node that fosters business stability and job creation,” said Lenkopane.

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Lenkopane approaches DBSA for assistance in SEZ revitalisation

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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.

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ANC’s January 8th statement celebration brings significant economic impact

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Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By AGISANANG SCUFF

5 January 2026- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said she has noted the significant and growing economic impact generated by the ANC’s January 8th Statement Celebration taking place at Moruleng Stadium, near Rustenburg on 10 January 2026.

Speaking on the sidelines of preparations, Lenkopane welcomed the economic opportunities created by the event.

“I am encouraged by the tangible economic activities already being generated by the ANC January 8th Statement Celebration in our province. This event goes far beyond politics — it unlocks meaningful opportunities for the local traders, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), accommodation providers, transport operators and businesses across the tourism value chain, particularly as the sector continues to recover from the effects of COVID-19.

“We invited tourists to experience the beauty of the province parallel to the celebration. We invite visitors not only to attend the celebrations, but to experience the full tourism offering of the North West, including destinations such as the Pilanesberg and other cultural and leisure attractions,” she said.

Lenkopane further said as they open the province for business, they call on all visitors and residents to respect and protect their wildlife, including rhinos, pangolins, tortoises, and all protected species and to help keep their environment clean. She added environmental protection and responsible tourism are key to attracting investment, sustaining jobs and securing long-term economic growth.

“A dedicated, multi-stakeholder task team has been appointed, led by the North West Parks and Tourism entity, to consolidate, coordinate and oversee all tourism activities related to the ANC January 8th Statement Celebration.

This structure has been put in place to ensure orderly coordination, compliance, and accountability and to decisively prevent and respond to fraudulent activities.

“The department has noted with serious concern and disappointment that certain individuals and groups are attempting to exploit this event through scams and unlawful practices. The department wishes to state unequivocally that it is working around the clock to identify, address, and eliminate such activities, while protecting visitors, service providers and local communities,” said Lenkopane.

She said in line with expanding inclusive participation, the department is also actively supporting residents who wish to convert their homes into guest accommodation. Lenkopane said all such establishments will undergo proper assessment and guidance, including grading through recognised tourism grading structures, to ensure safety, quality standards and regulatory compliance.

“Furthermore, we confirm that the department and its entities have been conducting intensive oversight visits to tourism establishments across the province, including major resorts, museums and large-scale tourism facilities. These visits have included direct engagements with tourism associations and key industry stakeholders, including Sun City, as part of readiness checks and sector coordination.

“The department encourages residents and visitors to support only licensed, regulated and compliant tourism and gambling establishments, including authorised casinos and gaming outlets,” she said.

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Lenkopane to probe mismanagement and misappropriation of funds at NWPTB   

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Picture: The North West MEC DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By AGISANANG SCUFF  

26 December 2025- The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said they welcome the settlement of long outstanding third-party obligations affecting employees of the Golden Leopard Resorts (Soc) Ltd (GLR) and Madikwe, following decisive steps by the department and the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB). Lenkopane said for more than three years, pension contributions were deducted from salaries but never paid over to the pension fund administrators.

She further said this failure left employees without retirement security and in tragic cases, families of deceased staff unable to access benefits. Lenkopane added that previous allocations from the department to address the arrears were never implemented, deepening the hardship.

“In the latest adjustment, DEDECT allocated R42.5 million to resolve these issues, R12.5 million for pension fund arrears, R26 million to settle SARS obligations including VAT and payroll taxes and R4 million for overdue salary increases covering 19 months from April 2024 to October 2025.

“Payments have now been made in full, bringing pension contributions up to date for all staff members affected.

This settlement benefits more than 300 employees of GLR and Madikwe,” she said.

Lenkopane commended the current leadership of the departmental accounting office and the entity for taking decisive action to resolve the matter, describing it as a significant relief and a worthy Christmas gift to affected employees and their families. She said the resolution of this matter demonstrates that the 7th administration continues to place the interests of the people at the centre of its work and remains committed to addressing historical challenges, restoring confidence in public entities and ensuring accountability and sound financial management.

“In addition to the settlement, we have an intensified investigation into the matter, aimed at holding those responsible accountable. The probe will cover the period when GLR was still a subsidiary of the North West Development Corporation (NWDC) and criminal charges will be pursued against individuals implicated in depriving employees and families of their rightful benefits.

“DEDECT and its entities have also strengthened governance and accountability measures to ensure such failures never recur. Enhanced monitoring of salary deductions and third-party payments is now embedded in GLR’s turnaround strategy, which has been endorsed by the provincial executive council,” said Lenkopane.

She said this correction is a promise kept—and a trust restored. Lenkopane said their work does not stop here.

“We remain committed to sustainable, ethical, and people-centred operations across all DEDECT entities,” she said.

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Implementation of the North West Liquor Licensing Act to take effect

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Picture: The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane

By AGISANANG SCUFF

25 November 2025- The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane has confirmed the implementation of the North West Liquor Licensing Act, 2016 (Act No. 6 of 2016) for the 2025/26 financial year, following all legislative processes undertaken during the bill stage. Lenkopane said in line with the Act, her department, through the Liquor Regulations Unit, commenced the liquor licence renewal process on 14 November 2025, which will run until 26 February 2026.

She further said the new renewal fees payable for the 2025/26 financial year are now in full effect. Lenkopane added that the published schedule of fees applies to all liquor license holders and payments must be made strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

“The department has noted with great concern the recent statements circulating from a group of individuals claiming to represent license holders and encouraging them not to renew their licenses due to the increase in fees as per the new Provincial Act.

“At this stage, the department emphasizes that such statements do not reflect the position of the broader liquor industry and urges the traders to adhere to their license conditions by renewing for the 2025/26 financial year,” she said.

Lenkopane further said they have already assisted a significant number of license holders in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, who have complied with the legislation, while others are awaiting the unfolding of the renewal process. She added that there will be no consideration of any reduction in the fees.

“The current fees are a product of extensive and transparent consultations conducted during the legislative process and are therefore binding in law. Since the campaign’s inception on 14 November 2025, the department has managed to collect R496 000 from liquor traders operating within the municipalities under the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality.

“This week, the campaign will be heading to the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture. All liquor traders in the area are urged to respond to the call to renew their licenses. The department further warns liquor traders of a concerning scam, in which fraudsters impersonate liquor officials and contact traders to solicit payments for license renewals through cash-send and e-wallet transactions,” said Lenkopane.

She said these actions are illegal and aimed at exploiting unsuspecting business owners. Lenkopane said liquor traders and members of the public are urged to exercise caution, remain vigilant and verify any communication related to license renewals directly with the department before making any payments.

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Kasi Ride Drives Local Economic Growth and Market Access for Small Businesses

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI                                                                                                                              27 October 2025- Small businesses supported by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), showcased their products and services at the Sun City GM’s Kasi Ride 2025 this weekend, an initiative that brought meaningful economic benefits to the local community while promoting inclusive tourism and wellness. Through this partnership with Sun City Resort, DEDECT and other departments created a collaborative platform that promotes market access for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), township economic participation, and local tourism development.

The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said for this event represents more than just a cycling experience, it is a platform for economic empowerment and community pride. Lenkopane said they wanted to ensure that MSMEs from across the Bojanala District take centre stage and benefit directly from the opportunities created here.

“It was inspiring to see eight local enterprises proudly exhibiting their North West-made products, from food and pastries to crafts, beauty, and fashion gaining visibility, new customers, and confidence to grow their businesses.

“The Kasi Ride has demonstrated how inclusive events can transform local economies. When we create spaces for small businesses to participate, we not only promote entrepreneurship but also stimulate local spending across guest houses, shops, filling stations, and entertainment establishments,” said Lenkopane.

She further said their role as the department is to ensure that township and rural-based enterprises are not spectators, but active contributors to the provincial economy. Lenkopane added that the Kasi Ride, a lifestyle and tourism-driven initiative, celebrates township culture, entrepreneurship, and creativity through cycling, entertainment, and exhibitions.

“It bridges township and mainstream tourism by linking local MSMEs to established destinations and broader markets. This partnership aligns with the department’s Access to Market Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at creating an enabling environment for the growth and long-term sustainability of small enterprises.

“Through the programme, MSMEs are linked to major tourism platforms such as the Kasi Ride, to drive job creation, encourage local procurement, and foster inclusive economic growth across the North West,” she said.

Lenkopane said beyond economic empowerment, the department also used the event to promote its Responsible Drinking and Responsible Gambling campaigns, critical components of the department’s consumer education and social responsibility mandate. She said participants were cautioned to be vigilant during festive season by acting responsibly, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption to ensure safety.

“The Kasi Ride 2025 attracted thousands of fitness and tourism enthusiasts who participated in cycling, running, and walking activities around the Sun City Resort. The event provided a unique experience that blended health, wellness, and local tourism while showcasing the scenic beauty of the Bojanala region and its vibrant hospitality offerings,” said Lenkopane.

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