By BAKANG MOKOTO
30 September 2024- The North West MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, celebrated her birthday with the congregation of Bechuana Methodist Church during their 10th Annual Convention in Setlagole.
As a firm believer in Christ, Lenkopane decided to spend her special day giving back to the community through faith, exemplifying her commitment to service delivery.
She donated 100 food parcels and 100 blankets to vulnerable families and elderly members of the Bechuana Methodist Church, demonstrating a spirit of generosity and solidarity. Lenkopane also reflected on 1 Corinthians 12:28.
“God appoints leaders to serve the body of Christ. I am not here in my capacity as MEC, but as a servant of the 7th administration under the leadership of North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi.
“Our mission is to accelerate service delivery and create jobs through government programmes. The churches play a critical role in economic development, particularly through religious and domestic tourism,” she said.
Lenkopane further said churches contribute to the local economy by organising Annual Conventions, Synods, and Circuit functions. She added that these events bring people together, leading to bookings for accommodation, the buying and selling of food through bazaars, and fundraising activities like raffles.
“There is a need to empower churches and communities to harness these opportunities, leveraging government programmes that support small businesses, especially those owned by women, youth and people with disabilities.
“These initiatives are crucial to transforming the province’s economy, creating jobs, alleviating poverty, and addressing inequality,” said Lenkopane.
In her address, she also commended the church for its role in community empowerment and urged the congregation to take advantage of available government support.
The Guardian 