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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