Tag Archives: Environment

R6.3 million belonging to NWPTB ‘discovered’ in an undisclosed bank account

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By OBAKENG MAJE

30 May 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) is outraged by the shocking collapse in governance, financial oversight and operational performance at the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB). This was revealed during the entity’s fourth quarter performance briefing to the Portfolio Committee on the Department Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT).

DA spokesperson on DEDECT in North West, Jóhni Steenkamp said the report confirms what residents, tourism stakeholders, and visitors across the province have been saying for months. Steenkamp said the public is being forced to pay dramatically more for a tourism product that is visibly deteriorating.

“What is even more alarming is that this comes amid the recent conviction of the NWPTB Chief Financial Officer on corruption-related charges and revelations made in committee that the entity allegedly discovered an undisclosed bank account containing approximately R6.3 million only two weeks ago — an account officials claim they were previously unaware of.

“This revelation raises extremely serious questions about financial controls, governance oversight, internal audit systems, asset and cash management. Furthermore, the biggest question of all: are there any additional undisclosed financial irregularities within the entity that may still surface?” she said.  

Steenkamp further said an institution cannot just “discover” millions of rand in a bank account it claims to have been unaware of. She added that the same Board that aggressively imposed massive tariff increases on struggling residents and tourism operators is now exposed as an institution riddled with weak oversight, operational collapse and deeply concerning governance failures.

“The fourth quarter report paints a devastating picture. The NWPTB achieved only 50% of its quarter 4 targets, conservation performance collapsed to 40%, the entity completely failed its conservation effectiveness targets and commercialisation initiatives achieved absolutely nothing,” said Steenkamp.

She said only 5% of concession contracts were reviewed. Steenkamp said tourism infrastructure continues to deteriorate.

“Hotel schools are declining because of failures in maintenance. Despite repeatedly blaming aging infrastructure for poor performance, NWPTB spent only 38% of its capital infrastructure budget.

“At the same time, the Board overspent heavily on administration, legal costs, and goods and services while reserve infrastructure and conservation standards deteriorated further. The DA warned that these outrageous fee increases were unjustifiable,” she said.

Steenkamp said the public was told that higher tariffs were necessary for sustainability, infrastructure maintenance and conservation support. She said yet the board’s own report proves the opposite.

“Reserves are deteriorating, tourism confidence is becoming unstable, conservation standards are failing, infrastructure backlogs continue to grow and governance failures remain unresolved.

“Most alarming is that NWPTB exceeded its revenue targets and collected substantially more money from the public, yet conditions within reserves and tourism facilities continue worsening,” said Steenkamp.

She said in simple terms the public paid more, but got less. Steenkamp said this is not “operational recovery”.

“This is an entity consuming public funds, while failing to deliver meaningful outcomes. The DA will urgently push for intensified oversight into the mysterious, undisclosed bank account and its origin, all concession agreements, leases and the utilisation of revenue generated through tariff increases and infrastructure and maintenance expenditures.

“We will also investigate conservation management failures, consequence management relating to governance failures and the systemic breakdowns that allowed a now-convicted official to occupy one of the most critical financial positions within the entity,” she said.

Steenkamp said the NWPTB cannot continue demanding premium prices from the public, while delivering collapsing infrastructure, failing conservation standards, weak governance, and financial uncertainty. She said the people of North West deserve protected reserves that function, tourism destinations that attract visitors and public entities that serve the public interest — not another ANC-run institution drowning in scandal, excuses, and decline.

Meanwhile, the North West Department Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT) spokesperson, Jerry Matebesi failed to respond to The Guardian Newspaper media inquiry..

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Police are ‘hot on the heels’ of Molosankwe’s killers 

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Picture: The social activist, Thato Molosankwe

By OBAKENG MAJE

26 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng said the police are ‘hot on the heels’ of social activist, Thato Molosankwe’s killers. Morweng along with the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, North West MEC for North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi and the Deputy-Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, paid homage to the Molosankwe’s family in Lomanyaneng village, near Mahikeng on Tuesday. 

Morweng said the investigations are at the advanced stage, but when the time is right, they will convene a press conference and communicate to the public. He further said what is key for now is to send their gratitude to the people of Mahikeng. 

“You would recall that when this heinous act took place, we implored them to keep calm. They have been calm and protested in a peaceful manner. So, the SAPS’s Murder and Robbery Unit is hard at work and a lot of resources have been deployed as far as this matter is concerned. 

“I am confident from where I am because I receive a report three times a day. So, I am confident that very soon we will arrest the suspects. I do not think I should divulge more details for now regarding investigations,” he said. 

The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi said they came to visit the family today as the North West Provincial Government (NWPG). Mokgosi said they are glad that they are joined by the Deputy-Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong. 

“We are here to make a commitment that those who are behind this will be arrested. This young fellow was a community activist and stood for the voiceless, downtrodden and marginalised. He was also an extension of an eye of the government. He Kept us accountable to the voters. 

“We are sorry for what has happened and to the family, yes you have lost, but we are also part of the loss. We made a commitment that the provincial government, through the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, and the acting Nation Police Commissioner, has deployed a dedicated team that will investigate this horrendous act on a daily basis,” he said. 

Morolong said Molosankwe was a decorated citizen, a noble man, who could walk from here to Cape Town to raise awareness against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Morolong said Molosankwe was the only noble man who can speak for the downtrodden. 

“He was the only noble man who could advocate for those who are marginalised. We are extremely encouraged that there is an ongoing police investigation. This will ultimately be culminating in an arrest of the perpetrators. We are here to send our heartfelt condolences to the family on behalf of the national government,” he said. 

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Lenkopane crack down illegal dumping

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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.

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Lenkopane to officially publish North West Hunting Regulations  

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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.

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DEDECT Supports Easigas Clean Cooking Initiative

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Picture: The Head of Department (HOD), Relebohile Mofokane/Supplied

By STAFF REPORTER

29 April 2026 – The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has welcomed the Easigas Clean Cooking Initiative (ECCI 2030) located in Mogwase, near Rustenburg. The department said this is a strategic investment that advances energy security, stimulates economic growth and supports environmental sustainability in the province.

Speaking on behalf of the North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane, the Head of Department (HOD), Relebohile Mofokane said, the initiative demonstrates how reliable energy access can be leveraged to unlock economic opportunities while improving the wellbeing of communities. Mofokane said this initiative represents a practical response to energy poverty, while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities. 

“The department supports the transition away from environmentally harmful and hazardous fuels, noting that clean-burning LPG provides a safer, efficient and dependable energy source for households, small businesses and industry.

“As a department responsible for both economic growth and environmental stewardship, we welcome the shift to cleaner energy alternatives. This initiative reflects the type of sustainable development we seek to promote across the North West,” he said.

Mofokane further said the commissioning of the women-led LPG bulk facility, together with its last-mile distribution network, would strengthen local supply chains, encourage enterprise development and create employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people. He added that this investment goes beyond infrastructure delivery.

“It is about inclusive growth, improved quality of life and creating meaningful economic participation for our communities.          The department further noted that the location of the facility in Moses Kotane enhances the regional economy and aligns with broader industrial ambitions linked to the Bojanala Platinum Special Economic Zone.

“The department emphasised that reliable and affordable energy remains essential for attracting investment, supporting industrialisation and enabling business expansion, particularly in emerging local economies,” said Mofokane.

He said at household level, the Easigas Clean Cooking Initiative is expected to improve health and safety outcomes by replacing unsafe traditional fuels with cleaner energy sources. Mofokane said the programme will also reduce the time burden associated with fuel collection and inefficient cooking methods, particularly for women in rural and peri-urban communities.

“The department commended the National Department of Electricity and Energy, together with The Chief Executive Officer of Easigas, Mr Jeremie Tromp and the The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Amani Africa and Hakem Energies, Ms Refilwe Sebothoma, and its partners for their leadership and investment in clean energy infrastructure, inclusive growth and community empowerment.

“The department confirms that strong public-private partnerships remain critical to accelerating development, expanding energy access and ensuring that economic opportunities are shared more broadly across society,” he said.

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Concerns raised over implementation of Biodiversity Permit System

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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.

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Lenkopane swears in Gambling Board and Liquor Authority

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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.

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Lenkopane hand over grants and training certificates to young entrepreneurs

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Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa lenkopane and the YAEI CEO, Mr Risuna Maluleke/Supplied

By STAFF REPORTER

17 April 2026 – The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) in partnership with the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI), North West University (NWU) and Miss Naledi Pageant, hosted a certification and grant handover ceremony for 25 young participants, who successfully completed a practical innovation training programme conducted in a hackathon format in Vryburg.

This initiative forms part of DEDECT’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment, as announced during the Miss Naledi 2025 pageant held in December 2025.

The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said the initiative was initially designed to assist participants in transforming their ideas into viable businesses, while promoting professionalisation and diversification within the pageant-linked value chain. Lenkopane said, however, the programme has since been translated into a practical intervention – North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Programme facilitated by DEDECT and YAEI.

“The programme has empowered 25 young people with entrepreneurship development skills and facilitated business registration through the companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). The 25 participants were grouped into seven companies, where each team identified a priority problem, validated market needs, developed innovative solutions, and produced investable business pitches for adjudication.

“The initiative contributes to the government’s broader efforts to combat youth unemployment and stimulate economic participation. Business opportunities linked to the pageant value chain, which these young people may explore, include events management, pageant coaching, photography and videography, makeup and hair styling, fashion design, as well as personal branding and influencer development,” she said.

Lenkopane further said some young people proposed diversifying into agro-processing and waste management to boost the local economy and create employment opportunities. She commended them for taking the initiative to improve their lives through entrepreneurship and innovation, and for committing themselves to skills development as a foundation for success.

“We encourage other youth to organise themselves and devise solutions to challenges faced by the government in developing the lives of the people of the North West. The handover of training certificates and grand support represents more than a ceremonial milestone, but a decisive investment in the capabilities of young people, particularly young women—to move from the margins of the economy into positions of ownership, innovation, and leadership.

“By integrating skills development with financial support and tools of trade, we are not only nurturing ideas but enabling sustainable enterprises that will contribute meaningfully to local economic growth,” added Lenkopane.

She said this initiative reflects a government that is intentional, responsive and committed to delivery. Lenkopane said it signals a shift from promises to practical empowerment, where partnerships targeted

interventions and accountability converge to create real opportunities.

“The success of these beneficiaries will stand as a testament to what is possible when the government acts with purpose to unlock the full potential of its people. We also acknowledge 33 additional informal traders from

the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, who received machinery and equipment from the department.

“This support forms part of the department’s Informal Traders Support

Programme, which provides resources to traders who responded to a formal call for assistance. The event marks a significant milestone in demonstrating the impact of government support in empowering entrepreneurs to participate meaningfully in the economy and drive the next wave of innovation and job creation,” she said.

Meanwhile, the YAEI CEO, Risuna Maluleke, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing youth entrepreneurship, emphasising that young people are a vital source of innovation and

solutions to the country’s challenges. Maluleke said the skills you have acquired are a weapon for success, enabling them to turn entrepreneurial visions into reality and secure sustainable business growth.

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Leeuwbosch Farm employee killed by a lion

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Picture: A lion attacked and killed an employee at Leeuwbosch Farm/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

31 March 2026 – The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of an employee who tragically lost his life following a lion attack at a private wildlife facility at Leeuwbosch Farm, near Setlagole village. Lenkopane said the incident reportedly occurred on 24 March 2026, while the employee was performing his duties at the facility.

She further said the preliminary report received by the Department’s Biodiversity Management officials, showed that the incident took place inside the lion enclosure area. Lenkopane added that the matter has since been reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and an inquest docket has been opened at Setlagole Police Station.

“Officials from the Department have visited the site and are working with relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. We would like to convey our sympathies to the bereaved family and call for strict adherence to wildlife safety protocols.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Facilities that work with dangerous wildlife have a responsibility to ensure that safety measures are strictly followed to protect employees and visitors,” said Lenkopane.

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

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Picture: The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on (DEDECT), Mpho Khunou/Facebook

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.

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