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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 19 March 2026- The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and holding businesses accountable, following a successful intervention by the Consumer Affairs Office and Provincial Consumer Affairs Court in a dispute involving a consumer based at Lokaleng village in Mahikeng against a drilling company.
The case, concluded during World Consumer Rights Month, highlights the decisive role of the Provincial Consumer Affairs Court in providing redress and enforcing compliance with consumer legislation and ensuring that consumers are not exploited.
The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane said Josephine Seitlhamo of Lokaleng village entered into an agreement with Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd in November 2023, for the drilling of a 50-metre borehole, including installation of all necessary equipment. Lenkopane said Setlhamo paid R27 800 for the service.
“However, the company failed to meet its contractual obligations. The borehole was not drilled to the agreed depth and despite the company claiming that the work had been completed according to specifications and no water was found.
“The consumer was subsequently requested to incur additional costs amounting to R11 000 for casings. She objected to a payment of a further R4 500 for a cylinder pump, without any resolution to the problem,” she said.
Lenkopane further said an independent assessment later revealed that the borehole measured only 34 metres and had no water, contradicting the service provider’s claims and pointing to conduct that falls short of acceptable business standards and boarded around misleading, unfair and otherwise improper business practices. She added that after unsuccessful attempts to resolve the matter directly with the supplier, Seitlhamo lodged a complaint with the Consumer Affairs Office.
“Due to lack of cooperation and parties failing to reach an agreement during the mediation process, the matter was escalated to the Provincial Consumer Affairs Court. The Provincial Consumer Affairs Court summoned the company before it and it determined that it has violated the rights of the consumer by not offering the services required in terms of the contract.
“The service provider was charged for contravening Section 54 of the Consumer Protection Act by failing to provide quality service. The case was heard on 25 February 2026,” said Lenkopane.
She said during the hearing, Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd undertook to drill a new borehole for Seitlhamo and to provide the necessary equipment on or before 5 March 2026. Lenkopane said the Consumer Affairs Court decided that should the undertaking not be complied with by Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd, an order will be made for it to refund Seitlhamo an amount of R38 800.
“The undertaking was complied with as agreed, and on the 5 March 2026, a delightful Seitlhamo phoned the Consumer Protector to confirm that the new borehole was bored and that it is fully functional and yielding sufficient water, ending two years of suffering.
“The case underscores the realization and enforcement of consumer rights as envisaged by the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008, which prohibits misleading, unfair, and deceptive conduct by suppliers. This achievement ensures maintenance of a consumer market that is fair, accessible, efficient, sustainable for the benefit of consumers,” she said.
Seitlhamo suffered financial loss and prolonged inconvenience, having spent approximately R38 800 and relying on water tankers for an extended period due to the supplier’s failure to deliver on agreed services.
Speaking on the outcome, Consumer Protector, Seile Letsogo, emphasised the department’s firm stance against non-compliant businesses:
“This case demonstrates that the Provincial Consumer Affairs Court is an effective platform for redress and enforcement. We urge businesses to comply with the law and treat consumers fairly. Where there is evidence of prohibited conduct, we will not hesitate to act decisively to protect consumers and ensure that justice is served.
“The department has issued a stern warning to businesses operating within the province: non-compliance with consumer protection legislation and unethical business practices will not be tolerated. The department will continue to pursue enforcement measures, including administrative penalties, against those who violate consumer rights and engage in prohibited conducts,” he said.
Letsogo said consumers are encouraged to report unfair treatment and seek assistance from the Consumer Affairs Office, which remains committed to ensuring accessible, efficient, and fair redress for all.
Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
19 March 2026- The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), together with its entities, the North West Parks and Tourism Board, North West Gambling Board and North West Development Corporation, has convened a high-level strategic planning session to reset priorities, strengthen accountability and accelerate service delivery for the 2026/27 financial year.
The two-day session took place from 17–18 March 2026 at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng and brought together key stakeholders from national and provincial departments, as well as state entities, to align on a clear programme of action.
The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane said at the centre of the discussions is the development of the Annual Performance Plan (APP) and Annual Operational Plan (AOP), with a focus on measurable outcomes, responsiveness to community needs, and improved service delivery. Setting a firm tone, Lenkopane emphasised that the process must mark a decisive shift from routine compliance to real impact.
“This cannot be business as usual. We need to reposition the department as the engine of economic development, as our communities are running out of patience. This session must correct our course, sharpen our priorities and produce a plan that is measurable, implementable and responsive to the real needs of our people.
“There is a need to reposition the department and its entities to respond directly to socio-economic challenges, adding that alignment with the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy is critical to ensuring accountability,” she said.
Lenkopane further said job creation as the department’s flagship priority, calling for targeted interventions that unlock opportunities for SMMEs, township enterprises and youth. She added that in reinforcing a culture of accountability and performance, she recognised programmes that achieved 100% targets in Quarters 2 and 3 of the 2025/26 financial year, while the North West Parks and Tourism Board was acknowledged as the most improved entity.
“Despite the department achieving a record-breaking performance of over 91% in Quarter 3, we caution against complacency. This improvement is commendable, but it is not the destination. We must elevate our performance and ensure that every target translates into real impact in the lives of our people.
“Departmental plans must deliver tangible outcomes, including inclusive economic growth, a strengthened tourism sector, sustainable use of biodiversity resources, and effective environmental conservation,” said Lenkopane.
She said the session concluded with the adoption of a clear implementation plan and monitoring framework, placing community impact, including job creation, access to services, quality of delivery and citizen satisfaction at the centre of departmental performance.
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.
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