Tag Archives: The North West Premier

Growth Hub will unlock fresh economic pathways

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Picture: The North West Provincial Government delegates/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

31 July 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi accompanied by the North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane and Executive Mayor of Rustenburg, Sheila Huma, launched the North West Growth Hub today at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng.

The Growth Hub, based at Shop No. 17 at OR Tambo International Airport, is a game-changer for local Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs), providing enhanced visibility in competitive markets, support in accessing digital platforms, and opportunities to collaborate across industries.

Mokgosi further said with a strong focus on showcasing their rich biodiversity, cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, the Growth Hub will unlock fresh economic pathways across agriculture, conservation, manufacturing, and hospitality. He added that this strategic milestone is set to significantly enhance the province’s digital marketing and branding capacity, positioning the North West as a compelling destination for tourism, trade, and investment.

“The North West Growth Hub aims to amplify visibility for the province’s diverse Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs), promote its rich biodiversity, and unlock growing economic opportunities.

“Through this Growth Hub we aim to amplify the visibility of the province to this lucrative market by exposing it to our rich biodiversity, and unlock growing economic opportunities across various sectors,” said Mokgosi.

He said the Growth Hub programme also aligns with the objectives of the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, which will be launched in due course. Mokgosi said, however, at the centre of this initiative is to build a digitally enabled, competitive, and inclusive economy, which can help the province address the challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequalities in their communities.

“The Growth Hub is a flagship initiative of the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), aligning with the department’s digital transformation priorities as pronounced by Lenkopane during the 2025 Budget Vote.

“It is a core pillar in the province’s broader strategy to build a digitally enabled, competitive, and inclusive economy. Once fully equipped with modern digital infrastructure, the hub will serve as a sustainable platform for marketing the North West as a premier tourism destination,” he said.

Mokgosi said the hub will also accelerate the development of township economies and promote localisation.

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Mokgosi to launch North West Growth Hub

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi 

By REGINALD KANYANE

30 July 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi will officially launch the North West Growth Hub on 31 July 2025, at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park, in Gauteng. Mokgosi said this strategic milestone is set to significantly enhance the province’s digital marketing and branding capacity, positioning the North West as a compelling destination for tourism, trade, and investment.

He further said the North West Growth Hub aims to amplify visibility for the province’s diverse Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs), promote its rich biodiversity, and unlock growing economic opportunities across sectors. Mokgosi added that the Growth Hub is a flagship initiative of the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), aligning with the department’s digital transformation priorities as pronounced by the North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, during the 2025 Budget Vote.

“It is a core pillar in the province’s broader strategy to build a digitally enabled, competitive, and inclusive economy. Once fully equipped with modern digital infrastructure, the hub will serve as a sustainable platform for marketing the North West as a premier tourism destination, while also accelerating the development of township economies and promoting localisation.

“The launch event will bring together government leaders, industry stakeholders, development partners, and members of the media to witness the unveiling of this transformative project,” said Mokgosi.

Meanwhile, the event will be held at O.R Tambo International Airport, Shop No 17 Ground Floor at 10am on 31 July 2025.

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Mokgosi: “Voices of marginalised and economically disenfranchised are missing”

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By OBAKENG MAJE

24 July 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi said the success of the democratic dispensation faces a serious credibility deficit, if they fail to resolve the job crisis confronting the province. Mokgosi who delivered the 2025/2026 financial year at the North West Provincial Legislature in Mahikeng on Thursday said, the voices of the marginalized and economically disenfranchised are missing in the celebratory chorus of the 31 years of the country’s democratic breakthrough.

He further said many of the people comprising largely the youth are outside the economic system, locked out of opportunities to share the dividends of democracy. Mokgosi added that, therefore, the promises they make in changing the lives of the youth for the better must not ring hollow in improving their socio-economic conditions.

“We meet in this house today to complete the last round of the process to release public resources to implement objectives set out in the Medium-Term Development Plan (2024-2029) adopted by the 7th administration. The apex priorities are (i) to drive inclusive economic growth and create jobs, (ii) reducing poverty and tackling high cost of living as

well as (iii) building a capable, ethical and developmental state. 

“Addressing the National Assembly during the tabling of the

Presidency Budget Vote a week ago, His Excellency President Cyril

Ramaphosa made an impassioned plea to meet the aforementioned objectives in our Programme of Action,” he said.

Mokgosi said the government in the province only employs 6% of all working people with 94% employed in the private sector. He said for this reason, they cannot win the battle against youth unemployment without the role and contribution of the private sector.

“We have established a Development Fund set at R100 million as a seed fund to co-fund social and developmental initiatives aimed at addressing unemployment and infrastructure backlogs in the province. We are encouraged by interest displayed by various industries to play a more meaningful role in this regard. If the private sector matches this government commitment, more pathways could be opened for jobs and other social relief interventions.

“The resuscitation of the Bojanala Special Economic Zone in Moses Kotane Local Municipality is in full swing and a team led by the Premier comprising the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bojanala and Moses Kotane Municipalities have been assembled to strengthen the provincial government’s business case. These intervention measures will culminate in the creation of 919 000 direct jobs once granted a license,” said Mokgosi.

He said for the successful implementation of the Annual

Performance Plan tabled in this August House, he requested for the appropriation to vote 1, Office of the Premier, as outlined hereunder. Mokgosi said the total budget allocation is R519 498.

“Administration will be allocated R 129,067, Institutional Development will receive R 273,759, while Policy and Governance will be allocated R116 672. In conclusion, I take this opportunity to thank the Speaker and Deputy for their continued support and guidance. The Honourable Members of the Executive Council for their ever-ready support as well Honourable members of the portfolio committee and the Opposition for their robust and relevant engagements, advice and oversight role.

“The DG and the entire staff of the Office of the Premier, the Chief of Staff, Advisors and the entire Private Office Staff, Traditional Leaders, my

beautiful wife and children for their encouragement and support,” he said.

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Mokgosi: “Orbit College FC’s victory epitomises resilience”

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Picture: The Orbit College FC player against Vape Town City player in a match/Facebook

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 June 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi said he wishes the newly-promoted team, Orbit College Football Club well following their promotion to the Betway Premier Soccer League. This comes after Mswenko Boys as Orbit College FC is affectionately known, defeated Cape Town City 1-0 on Wednesday at the packed and electrifying Olympia Park Stadium in Rustenburg.

Mokgosi said Mswenko Boys demonstrated courage and resilience throughout the campaign.

“We witnessed a remarkable performance by Orbit College FC, which guarantees them a spot in the Premier Soccer League. As a province, we congratulate them on this historic victory which epitomises resilience and courage but further gives impetus to our ongoing efforts to set our province on a path of growth and development.

“The provincial government will explore various ways and means to support the team in the forthcoming PSL season, as well as partnering with the private sector to guarantee its success,” he said.

Mokgosi further said the private sector and in particular mining houses around the Bojanala area will have to be roped in to assist the team through various means to ensure its sustainability and growth. He added that the success of the team will yield different economic spin-offs for locals.

“This promotion will culminate into the creation of various economic opportunities for the people of the North West and in particular the tourism and retail sector. It further impresses upon us to prioritise the refurbishment of infrastructure such as our stadiums and training facilities,” said Mokgosi.

Meanwhile, the North West Sports Confederation president, Thebe Sekoto said the promotion of Orbit College to the Betway Premiership is more than just a big win in football. Sekoto said it is a proud and important moment for the North West.

“What started as a small college football team has now become one of the top clubs in the country. Their fast rise from the lower leagues to the top division has excited fans across the North West and brought back hope and pride to the province.

“This moment is important not only for the team, but for the whole community. Teams like Orbit are more than just football clubs. They create jobs, bring in investment, help young people grow and bring people together. Promotion is not just a prize, it is a chance to improve our communities,” he said.

Sekoto said having a North West team in the Premiership again puts the province back on the national stage. He said he believes this proves the province is ready to host big events, grow young talent and take part in major sports conversations.

“This achievement means two big things. For Orbit College, it shows how a small team with big dreams and hard work can reach the top. For the province, it supports the idea that sports can help build better communities and boost the local economy.

“The North West has waited for years to have a team in the top league again. Now, with Orbit’s success, that dream has come true. Their story, built on discipline, planning and belief, shows what can happen when talent is given a chance,” he said.

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Mosenogi appointed interim North West Premier  

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Picture: North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

25 May 2025- In line with Chapter 6, Section 131(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, has appointed the North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi as the acting Premier effective from 24 May 2025 to 8 June 2025. Mokgosi said as acting Premier, Mosenogi will execute all responsibilities entrusted to her in line with the provisions of the constitution.

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Mokgosi refutes allegations of harbouring unqualified staff  

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By OBAKENG MAJE  

25 May 2025- The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) in the North West said it is outraged by the News24 report confirming that 36% of staff in the North West Premier, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi’s office is not qualified for the positions they occupied. The party said this shocking figure is only the tip of the iceberg — because the truth is, Mokgosi himself is not qualified to lead this province.

According to MKP provincial convenor, Alfred Motsi, Mokgosi has never emerged through any proper political or organizational processes within the ANC — not at branch level, not at regional level. Motsi said Mokgosi is a political unknown, who was elevated to power purely because of his allegiance to a faction led by ANC provincial chairperson, Nono Maloyi.

“Mokgosi is nothing more than a puppet of Maloyi, installed to protect factional interests, not to serve the people of this province. This is a betrayal of democracy, governance and public trust.

“We demand a public explanation from Mokgosi on his own qualifications and political background. A full independent audit of all staff appointments in the Office of the Premier. Immediate removal of all unqualified personnel,” he said.

Motsi further said they also demand a clear commitment to merit-based, transparent appointments free from factional influence. He added that, the North West deserves competent, ethical and experienced leadership.

“What we have now is a state-captured provincial government run by factional interests and deployed puppets, who cannot deliver services, cannot govern and do not respect the people.

“MKP is rising to break this cycle of corruption, cadre deployment and incompetence. We are building a government of the people, by the people, and for the people,” said Motsi.

However, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has refuted reports that only 36% of his staff is qualified. Mokgosi said all 44 senior managers qualify and met all the requirements for the positions they currently hold at the time of their appointments.

“Following engagements with the Public Service Commission (PSC), it was established that certain information in relation to the suitability of some managers was not captured correctly when a survey on senior management qualifications was conducted.

“The Office of the Premier can confirm that qualifications relating to all senior managers have been authenticated, and they all meet the minimum entry requirements into the Senior Management Service,” he said.

Mokgosi said an updated report in relation to this matter will be shared with the Public Service Commission (PSC). He said that he is committed to the professionalisation of the Public Service, as well as ethical leadership, which encapsulates accountability and transparency.

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Mokgosi welcomes R1.5bn investment

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi and Harmony Gold mine CEO, Beyers Nel/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

22 May 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi has applauded Harmony Gold for an investment of R1.5 billion at its Stilfontein Operations in Klerksdorp. Mokgosi, who was accompanied by the North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi and acting Director General, Ndlela Kunene, lauded the mine for their investment initiatives and have urged them to support the Province’s Development Fund, which is primarily aimed at addressing infrastructure backlogs in the province.

Mokgosi further said the investment is a culmination of ongoing efforts to lure investments and address the scourge of unemployment afflicting the province. He added that, earlier this year, he met with the company’s Executive Management on the side-lines of the Africa Mining Indaba to discuss a number of issues relating to diversification, localization and SMME Development. 

“The initiative, which will create several job opportunities for the people of the province, adds to R7 billion worth of investment by the mine in 2022, which includes an extension of Moab-Khotsong operations at Stilfontein.  

“The investment gives credence to the government’s efforts of fostering partnerships with the various stakeholders to create an enabling environment for investment and job creation,” said Mokgosi.    

He further said this forms part of a broader strategy by the government to encourage investments in the province. Mokgosi added that, he has no doubt that as more investments trickle in, several more job and business opportunities will be created and this will help reduce the high unemployment figures afflicting the province.  

Meanwhile, the newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Beyers Nel, maintains that the renewable energy investment forms part of its long-term investment and diversification strategy. Nel said through their R7bn investment in 2022, they managed to preserve 6000 jobs for locals, extending the mine’s lifespan by 20 years. 

“In 2020, we acquired Mine Waste Solutions leading to an investment of R2bn and we have created close to 2500 jobs, 7% of which are locals,” he said.

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Mokgosi urges road users to be more vigilant

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By OBAKENG MAJE

17 April 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi wishes all Christian-faith based organizations a safe and peaceful Easter Weekend filled with spiritual rejuvenation. Mokgosi has called on residents to observe this weekend with extra care and caution following inclement weather conditions, which have damaged private property and public infrastructure.

He further appeals to road users to be vigilant as thousands will be travelling to various holiday destinations and denominations for divine intervention. Mokgosi added that faith-based organizations remain an important puzzle of the province’s social fabric, particularly as the government continues to forge ahead with finding solutions to a number of challenges afflicting the province.

“The country’s democratic foundation was among others spearheaded by faith-based organizations, as South Africa will mark thirty-one years of freedom on 27 April. The participation of faith-based organizations in community driven development issues is needed more than ever.

“Through liberation theology leaders of faith-based organizations were instrumental in raising the alarm on atrocities which were meted on our people by Apartheid. While we have made progress in addressing this legacy, the next 30 years requires all of us to work together and in particular faith-based organizations to work hand in glove with the government to find permanent solutions to a number of challenges afflicting our communities,” he said.

Mokgosi said, furthermore, the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, has been hard at work activating the Easter Weekend Plans, which among others, encapsulate a thorough monitoring of arterial routes such as N4, N12, N14 as well as N18. He said priority will also be given to provincial roads, as well as rural areas, where there has been a growing trend of accidents in the last few years.

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North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi to engage with Captains of Industries in pursuit of discuss economic growth

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 April 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi will on 16 April 2025, host a roundtable discussion with Captains of Industries to discuss areas for collaboration towards the successful and comprehensive implementation of key 2025 State of the Province Address (SOPA) pronouncements. The engagement will afford the provincial government and business sector the opportunity to also explore strategic enablers and barriers to economic growth in the North West province, focusing on sectors that are dominant in the economy of the province including Mining, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism, ICT, Engineering and Construction.

The North West Provincial Government spokesperson, Brian Setswambung said: “Hosted in collaboration with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), the roundtable will underscore ways of creating sustainable job opportunities and alternative strategies to alleviate poverty in line with the 2025 SOPA injunctions.

“The roundtable discussion will be attended by Captains of Industries, Members of Executive Council (MECs), Premier’s Economic and Investment Advisory Council and Heads of Departments.”

Setswambung further said this engagement will be followed by Premier’s maiden Charity Golf Tournament, which will be attended by prominent golfers from business fraternity and professional organisations. He added that, the proceeds from Premier’s Charity Golf Tournament will be awarded to a school in Moretele Local Municipality, Kgomo-Kgomo, and another in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, where Mokgosi, together with MTN and Metropolitan will donate laptops, sanitary towels, and Wi-Fi for the Grade 12 learners.

“The two-day programme with Captains of Industries will be held in Sun City Resort, near Rustenburg on Wednesday, where Mokgosi will engage in Premier’s roundtable discussion with Captains of Industries from 2pm to 5pm.

“On Thursday, Mokgosi will embark on Premier’s Charity Golf Tournament at Sun City Golf Course

Tee-Off from 9am,” he said.

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Oversight visits to key water projects  

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Picture: The executive mayor of Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Khumalo Molefe and North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 April 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi accompanied by the Executive Mayor of Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Khumalo Molefe, conducted an oversight visit to four key water projects across villages in Mahikeng. The visit aimed at improving water access and addressing infrastructure challenges faced by locals.  

Molefe said the visit will include inspections of water projects in Mmasutlhe, Magogoe, Dithakong, Setumo Park, Signal Hill and Lonely Park. He further said during these visits, Mokgosi will be engaging with local authorities and related stakeholders in an effort to evaluate the progress of each water project and assessing the impact on the surrounding communities.

“These projects are part of the government’s ongoing commitment to provide sustainable water solutions in rural areas, ensuring equitable access to this essential resource.

“In Mmasutlhe, Magogoe, Dithakong, Setumo Park, Signal Hill and Lonely Park, Mokgosi will further observe significant strides in water infrastructure development, including the installation of new pipelines, repair of aging systems, and the establishment of reliable water supply points,” said Molefe.

He added that they took the opportunity to discuss future plans for the expansion of these projects and the necessary improvements to meet the growing needs of the communities. Molefe said the visit underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location, have access to clean and safe drinking water.

“The Government of National Unity (GNU) continues to prioritize water security as part of its broader development goals, with further investments planned to enhance water access and infrastructure across the region,” he said.

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