By OBAKENG MAJE
In his 2024 State of the Province Address, the acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi made a compelling narrative of economic resurgence in the province, highlighting substantial job creation and strategic initiatives set to transform the province.
Maloyi said that, the province stands as one of the three provinces with the most significant employment growth during the third quarter of 2023. He further said a staggering 61,000 jobs have been generated, showcasing the administration’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of poverty and unemployment.
“We expressing deep concern over persistently high levels of poverty and unemployment, particularly among women and the youth. However, there is urgency of addressing these issues, citing the critical role that women and young people play in the growth of the provincial economy.
“Despite an 11% increase in the unemployment rate from 2010 to 2023, there is a comprehensive roadmap for economic recovery and promising signs for job creation. We need to applaud the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism’s pivotal role in notching two vital investment promotion events such as the North-West BRICS Investment Conference and the Premier’s Dinner with Investors, which yielded 34 investment pledges, totalling over R104.1 billion,” said Maloyi.
He added that, currently, 14 confirmed projects worth R13.5 billion are in the pipeline for the Bojanala Special Economic Zone, promising an additional 10,000 jobs. Maloyi said the implementation of the Tourism Recovery Plan has already yielded growth in both domestic and international visitors.
“There are plans to revitalise Pilanesberg and George Dick Montshiwa Airports, aiming to boost tourism and create new economic opportunities in cargo hauling, hanger and airline services. The requests for proposals have been sent out, and the preferred bidders are expected to commence work by May 2024.
“The completion of the resuscitation of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council, which is a crucial step in ensuring strategic support and coordination for the implementation of the PGDS. The Council will play a pivotal role in promoting integrated economic planning and sector contributions,” he said.
Maloyi said the imminent announcement of Economic Advisory Council members is scheduled within the next two weeks following consultations with critical stakeholders.
TaungDailyNews 