Tag Archives: Environment

DEDECT to expand consumer awareness campaign

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane with Head of Department, Relebohile Mofokane/Supplied  

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

North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi highlights key road infrastructure priorities

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi  

By OBAKENG MAJE

3 March 2026- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing infrastructure development and improving service delivery. Mokgosi, who delivered the 2026 State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the official opening of the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), outlined a range of priority projects scheduled for implementation in the 2026/2027 financial year.

He further announced that the North West Department of Public Works and Roads will work in partnership with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) to strengthen waste management and road maintenance initiatives. Mokgosi added that, this collaborative approach forms part of government’s broader drive to ensure a clean, safe and healthy environment for residents across the North West.

“Road infrastructure development is gaining significant traction with more than R1 billion earmarked for catalytic projects in Phelindaba, Makwassie, Verdwaal and Ramokokastad. These targeted investments are intended to stimulate local economies, improve mobility and restore connectivity within communities.

“We have prioritised the upgrading of Nelson Mandela Drive in Mahikeng, allocating over R700 million for the project. The work will include widening the existing bridge to serve as a carriageway, with construction expected to commence in April 2026,” he said.

Mokgosi said construction will also resume in the new financial year in Dwarsberg and Pitse Disulejang in Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Komkruil, as well as along the Lebotlwane-to-Tlholwe route in Moretele Local Municipality. He said these roads were severely damaged by floods, disrupting access for learners, workers and surrounding communities.

“Their rehabilitation reflects government’s continued commitment to restoring critical infrastructure and ensuring reliable access to essential services. In addition, we announced a Public-Private Partnership initiative aimed at eliminating potholes across the province while tackling youth unemployment.

“The provincial government is finalising a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Central University of Technology (CUT), to roll out pothole repair programmes in our municipalities, with a focus on empowering 7 000 unemployed young people,” he said.

Furthermore, Mokgosi committed the North West Department of Public Works and Roads to providing asphalt for designated municipalities to fast-track project delivery. He said this intervention will enhance alignment across national, provincial and municipal road networks, expand access to economic opportunities and improve mobility for residents throughout the province.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

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

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

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

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane advances investment efforts for North West

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

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

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A clear roadmap to transform Mogwase Shopping Complex

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane approaches DBSA for assistance in SEZ revitalisation

NEWS Leave a comment

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

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

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane to probe mismanagement and misappropriation of funds at NWPTB   

NEWS Leave a comment

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.

taungdailynews@gmail.com