By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 27 October 2025- Small businesses supported by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), showcased their products and services at the Sun City GM’s Kasi Ride 2025 this weekend, an initiative that brought meaningful economic benefits to the local community while promoting inclusive tourism and wellness. Through this partnership with Sun City Resort, DEDECT and other departments created a collaborative platform that promotes market access for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), township economic participation, and local tourism development.
The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said for this event represents more than just a cycling experience, it is a platform for economic empowerment and community pride. Lenkopane said they wanted to ensure that MSMEs from across the Bojanala District take centre stage and benefit directly from the opportunities created here.
“It was inspiring to see eight local enterprises proudly exhibiting their North West-made products, from food and pastries to crafts, beauty, and fashion gaining visibility, new customers, and confidence to grow their businesses.
“The Kasi Ride has demonstrated how inclusive events can transform local economies. When we create spaces for small businesses to participate, we not only promote entrepreneurship but also stimulate local spending across guest houses, shops, filling stations, and entertainment establishments,” said Lenkopane.
She further said their role as the department is to ensure that township and rural-based enterprises are not spectators, but active contributors to the provincial economy. Lenkopane added that the Kasi Ride, a lifestyle and tourism-driven initiative, celebrates township culture, entrepreneurship, and creativity through cycling, entertainment, and exhibitions.
“It bridges township and mainstream tourism by linking local MSMEs to established destinations and broader markets. This partnership aligns with the department’s Access to Market Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at creating an enabling environment for the growth and long-term sustainability of small enterprises.
“Through the programme, MSMEs are linked to major tourism platforms such as the Kasi Ride, to drive job creation, encourage local procurement, and foster inclusive economic growth across the North West,” she said.
Lenkopane said beyond economic empowerment, the department also used the event to promote its Responsible Drinking and Responsible Gambling campaigns, critical components of the department’s consumer education and social responsibility mandate. She said participants were cautioned to be vigilant during festive season by acting responsibly, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption to ensure safety.
“The Kasi Ride 2025 attracted thousands of fitness and tourism enthusiasts who participated in cycling, running, and walking activities around the Sun City Resort. The event provided a unique experience that blended health, wellness, and local tourism while showcasing the scenic beauty of the Bojanala region and its vibrant hospitality offerings,” said Lenkopane.
The Guardian 