First Emergency Service Owned by Youth DEDECT Scoops SAIGA ...

First Emergency Service First Emergency Service Owned by YouthOwned by Youth

DEDECT Scoops DEDECT Scoops SAIGA AwardSAIGA Award

Consumers Urged Consumers Urged not to Fall into not to Fall into Debt TrapDebt Trap

Services Taken Services Taken to the Peopleto the People

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We are all saddened by the loss of our mag-nanimous leader and icon, Tata Mandela. Let us take this time to mourn his loss and celebrate his profound life and his vision of selfless struggle. He will remain in our hearts forever and his legacy shall live on through us. May his soul rest in peace.

As the festive season approaches, I hope we have all achieved everything we set out to accomplish throughout the year; we have certainly done such at the Department. Cognisance should also be taken by all consumers for end of year celebrations whereby proper financial manage-ment is key in order to avoid over committing to debt.

This has been a year of memorable moments, one of those being the Women’s Day programmes we have just celebrated which integrated the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign. The gathering gave us the opportunity to discuss challenges women are confronted with and our achievements as far as women empowerment and gender equity is concerned. Women are really doing well in writ-ing their own world and we should continue uniting to address life challenges that are affecting us. We have also just met to rally behind the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children wherein women should spearhead the programme thereby advocating for the building of the ideal society we wish to have.

We have in this edition, many articles concerning the various programmes which DEDECT is involved in. We hope that this will give you a clear and holistic under-standing of how the Department is achieving its mandate, many a time through public participation.

We trust that you will enjoy this edition and wish you a festive season filled with love and joy. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

LESEDI NEWSLETTERLESEDI NEWSLETTER

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EditorialEditorial

Ms Dumisa SeshabelaDirector: Communication & IT

ContentsContents

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, ENVIRONMENT,

CONSERVATION & TOURISM

2nd Floor (NWDC Building) Development HouseCorner Provident Str. & University Drive

Mmabatho 2735

Tel: (018) 387 7712 • Fax: (018) 387 7901

Page

Editorial 2

MEC Preface 3

MEC Hands Over Building to the Feel At Home Disability Centre 4

First Emergency Service Owned by Youth 5

Supa Drift Series and Fashion Extravaganza 7

DEDECT Scoops SAIGA Award 9

Women in Taverns and Stokvels Want to Grow Their Business 10

MEC Empowers Women in Mining 11

MEC Takes Tourism to Another Level 12

Consumers Urged not to Fall into Debt Trap 14

DEDECT Takes Services to the People 15

Technology for Women in Business (TWIB) Seminar 16

Fourteenth SACCA Congress 17

DEDECT Supports Women Empowerment Growth Initiative 18

NW Represents at World Travel Market in London 19

Manyane Game Lodge Gets a Face Lift 21


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December 5th will be remembered as a very sad day indeed, for south Africans and the rest of the world. The day our icon, Tata Mandela has left us, and yet we also thank God for He has chosen to send Tata to this world in order to bring about peace, harmony and freedom. We have indeed lost a hero of all time, an icon of peace, harmony and love. An ever smiling, profoundly great man, the father of our nation and the epitome of a true selfless leader. You will remain in our hearts forever. Long live the spirit of Nelson Mandela. May his sole rest in peace.

We are also at a hectic time for us in the work place and equally at home as we are making preparations for Christmas and a new year. There are only few days left before taking a break to spend quality time with our families. I trust that we have been giving our Matric learners all the support they might have needed in their final

examinations. We really need to encourage education and training unto the future generation as we know and agree with Tata Nelson Mandela that “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” We have recently celebrated the Departmental women’s month programme, which incorporated a Breast Cancer Aware-ness drive, we have also launched the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. I would herein like to encourage all of us to make everyday ‘16 days of activism for no violence against women and children.’ I also encourage us all to transfer our insightful knowledge we accumulate of the 16 days of activism dialogues to others who might not have the privilege of being part of such latitude. Furthermore, I trust we have all registered to vote as that is your democratic right. Let us remember that to make democracy work; we must be a nation of participants, not simply observers. Let us all go and exercise our democratic right and decide on who we see fit to be our leadership.

In conclusion, I would like to thank all stakeholders for the valuable contribution they have made in achieving our goals as DEDECT throughout the year. I wish you and your families an abundance of blessings at this festive time and let us remember Tata Mandela and the Mandela family in our thoughts and prayers.

MEC PrefaceMEC Preface

Hon Motlalepula RoshoMEC: Department of Economic Development,

Environment, Conservation and Tourism


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Mme Motlalepula Rosho, MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment Con-servation and Tourism in the North West Province handed over a building to the Feel At Home Disability Centre recently at Montshioa in Mafikeng.

The handing over of the building to Feel At Home Disability Centre according to MEC Rosho is a symbol of promoting, protecting and ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms by people with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity. This com-mitment of support towards the centre was a stepping stone resulting from MEC Rosho’s 2013/2014 budget speech declara-tion of introducing a Disability Entrepre-neurial Centre model at Feel At Home Disability Centre. The commitment of support or spirit of

“touching lives” to disabled communities was also supported by the Department’s partners such as North West Gambling Board, Protea Hotel, Goldrush Gaming, Rio Casino, North West Development Corpora-tion as well as the Department of Social Development, Women, Children and People with Disabilities. The new building, handed

over to the centre was con-structed by the Department’s agency NWDC. In contributing towards the full operation of the centre, Rio Casino from Klerksdorp donated tables, chairs and mark Board while Goldrush donated a cheque of R13 125. 00 to the Feel At Home Disability Centre. Another cheque of the same amount from Goldrush was issued to Rebaone Disability Centre in Madibeng. Feel At Home Disability Centre is a community based non-profit organisation which ensure that

MEC Rosho Hands Over Building to MEC Rosho Hands Over Building to the Feel at Home Disability Centrethe Feel at Home Disability Centre

MEC Rosho and Mr Matsididi, chairperson of the centre, officially opening the new centre

The joy at the centre was overwhelming as the pupils celebrated.


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First Emergency Service CompanyFirst Emergency Service CompanyOwned by YouthOwned by Youth

children with disabilities have the right to express their views freely on all matters affecting them, their views being given due weight in accordance with their age and maturity, on equal basis with other chil-dren, and to be provided with disability and age-appropriate assistance to realize their right to education. The centre was initiated by Mr Matsididi, chairperson of the centre, who is living with a disability since 2010.

During her keynote address, MEC Rosho committed herself to support the centre as it is one the projects close to her heart. The MEC also acknowledged all the helping hands including Maiphetlho Tent Hire for offering tent and Protea Hotel for offering to serve dinner for the event and also edging community members to jealously protect the centre’s resources.

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The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment Conservation and Tourism launched the LJM Distributors Emergency Service project at Ben Marais Hall, in Rustenburg. The project was initiated by two young black men, Messrs Lebang Makgae and John Dassie in Rustenburg, Bojanala District and it’s the first of its kind in the province as these men have used the experience they gathered whilst employed in one of the private emergency service companies in the North West.

“We saw an opportunity in this sector and felt that as young people we will be in a position to assist our poor com-munities especially those in deep rural areas around Rustenburg. We got assist-ance from North West Development Corpo-

ration through their Small business loans division of R209 000 at a minimal interest rate and would like to thank the Depart-ment of Economic Development, Environ-ment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT)

MEC Motlalepula Rosho and project initiates Lebang Makgae and John Dassie


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for their support in advising us on entrepre-neurial skills and linking us with relevant Departments,” said Mr John Dassie, one of the owners of the LJM Distributors.

Through the loan these young men were able to convert a panel van into an emer-gency ambulance. The project came as a result of the shortage in the provision of emergency services especially in rural areas around the Rustenburg region.

The project focuses on offering emergency services; distribution of medical equipment and related matters to communities around Rustenburg and its surrounding villages. The company started its operations last year and on a monthly basis they receive approximately 100 calls, especially from people living in informal settlements and villages around Rustenburg.

“We call upon young people to arm them with knowledge if they are to succeed as the bedrock for their own future and gen-

erations to come. Young people should venture into creation of new knowledge to stimulate new ideas and solutions to busi-ness economics”, said MEC Motlalepula Rosho. “This is a unique project for the province and will link these young men with relevant institutions to assist them in making their dream a success. As government we have developed programmes that will enable young people to participate in the main-stream economy and urge them to make contact with us to improve their lives”, said Rosho.

As part of their social responsibility LJM Distributors provided free basic first aid course to Rustenburg Hospice Care Givers on their anniversary month in March 2013. The company has created eight job oppor-tunities for young people since their incep-tion and aim to employ 15-20 emergency personnel by 2014.

Shining stars - The LJM Distributors Medical Emergency Team


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The penultimate round of the SA Supadrift Series was held on the 28th September in the parking area of the Mmabatho Stadium in Mahikeng - the first time this year that the top drifters from around the country compete in the North West Province. The event drew a resounding crowd of almost 5000 people which were able to view the spectacu-lar drifting show and also visit the flea market and food stalls which were set up by local SMME’s.

“This is a unique motor sport initiative which we have not seen in the province before, we want to reposition Mafikeng as a vibrant and event filled Capital

City and draw more people to the Province,” said the MEC for the Department of Eco-nomic Development, Envi-ronment, Conservation and Tourism, Mme Motlalepula Rosho. The event was held in partnership with the Depart-ment of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mahikeng Local Municipality and XS Promo-tions with the aim of support-ing tourism development and growth of small businesses in the North West Province. The family orientated weekend was full of fun and entertain-ment and benefitted both local small businesses as well as the enthusiastic drifting fans. The fans were treated to drama on the track with

some drifters colliding with the barriers and cars breaking down before finishing. It all ended with a tough fight for pole position

Supa Drift Series Supa Drift Series and Fashion Extravaganzaand Fashion Extravaganza

From Left: Mike Skelton (XS Promotions' co-director) , MEC Motlalepula Rosho , Wally Pappas (MSA president of Drifting)

From Left: Mr. Martin Sebakwane, MEC Motlalepula Rosho and Mr. Ndivhuwo Tshivhase


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with Jason Webb taking 1st place, Wade van Zummerun taking 2nd place and Mike Radloff taking 3rd.

MEC Rosho applauded Mr. Rolence Molapisi, an emerging drifter, for partner-ing with the Department and bringing the Legal Extreme Drifting Experience to the Province. Rolence, a young qualified drifter and a professional racer said he saw this initiative as a flag-ship event for tourism in the province. “Supadrift is all about going sideways and having fun at the same time, I am excited to share my dream career with my community and especially the youth who would one day like to take up drifting as a sport. This sport is not only for the rich but for anyone who has a dream of becoming a drifter”, said Rolence.

The event was later followed by the Mahikeng Fashion Extravaganza which brought together the best talent from the North West Province and provided them with a platform for the creative designers to display their unique products. This was a preceding event which will lead up to the North West Fash-ion Week in October. “We have seen people of good will in this town; we have produced artists, singers, actors, doctors, scientists, soccers stars and judges, why not then tap

into this kind of initiative and produce SMME’s which compete internationally. Our History as a province demonstrates that.” said MEC Rosho who showed grati-tude for emerging talents in the fashion industry.

The culmination of the Supadrift Series and the Mafikeng Fashion Extravaganza are activities which the Department is venturing into that will create awareness and appetite for local products. This in line with one of it’s mandates, which is to facilitate access to markets for SMME’s in the Province, through flea markets and trade fairs. The Supadrift National Champi-onship and the Mafikeng Fashion Extravaganza were two such initiatives

where SMME’s were given the opportunity to promote their products and services to a resounding success.

From Left: Designer Valencia Padeyachi, Onnicah Sithole (DEDECT) and organisers Lesego Moloi and Wendy Morebodi

“Supadrift is all about “Supadrift is all about going sideways and going sideways and

having fun at the same having fun at the same time .............”time .............”


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DEDECT Scoops SAIGA AwardDEDECT Scoops SAIGA Award

The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conserva-tion and Tourism (DEDECT) have made the province proud by scooping the twelfth Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) Annual Public Sector Reporting Awards for 2012/13 reporting period. The Depart-ment is the winner in the category of the best provincial department in the North West scoring 85.77% for producing excellent and detailed financial state-ments. “Although there are a number of compli-ance matters that are still being attended to, this award is an affirmation that we are moving in the right direction. I would like to thank the Departmental management and staff for their commitment and dedication in fulfilling our dream of producing quality reports, said MEC for DEDECT, Motlalepula Rosho with pride.

’’We have put proper systems and processes in place to respond to government’s call to pay service providers within 30 days after the submission of invoice. There is vast improvement with regard to this since the last quarter, she said.

The SAIGA Awards were introduced twelve years ago to recognize the pursuit of excellence in annual reports published by both Provincial and National departments.

It produces twelve awards which include; one of the best report of a national depart-ment; one of the best provincial department(for each of the nine prov-inces); one of the most consistent highest score over the last three years and a twelfth award for the department obtaining overall highest score.

“By ensuring total independence from executive and the finance departments, the Award Panel and Technical Award Commit-tee constituted by experts in the field of public sector reporting, representatives of the Office of the Accountant-General, the Office of the Auditor General, academia and SAIGA, said Professor Dieter Gloeck during the presentation of the awards to the winners.

Well done team DEDECT and continue keeping the momentum going.

The DEDECT CFO, Mr Motsepe Moiloanyane, receives the award on behalf of the Department

The SAIGA Public Sector Award


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The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism in concluding its women’s month celebrations interacted with women in taverns and stokvels in Wolmaranstad recently. The session was part of Depart-mental interventions of empowering women with the intention of formalising their liquor businesses. Liquor industry plays an important role of providing employment and income to thousands of the households and contributes to govern-ment tax revenue. The Department in promoting the development of a respon-sible and sustainable liquor industry engaged women traders to solicit inputs towards reduction of alcohol abuse amongst pregnant women and young people.

“Women need to stand up and take the lead in growing the economy of the province, said Ms Onnica Sithole: Director: Enterprise Development within Department Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism. Sithole was speaking at inter-active session attended by approximately 100 women in taverns and stokvels. The

event was held under the theme “Unity in action towards women in socio economic freedom”. Sithole urged women to start to work together and establish cooperatives especially those belonging to stokvels. She informed participants about the Provincial government’s intention of establishing cooperative banks to create employment especially amongst young people.

In her address, Ms Thezi Mabuza: Chief Director National Liquor Authority, applauded women for being risk takers as the liquor business involves many risks. She said liquor the industry is controversial if it is not regulated properly it can cause harm to society. Women need to take a leading role of reducing its negative impact on the society by taking care of their clients. “The liquor business is legiti-mate, you have the right to sell liquor and attract more customers. Choose your clien-tele, market and brand your business” she said.

A resolution was taken that the Department in partnership with both District and Local municipality will facilitate registration of cooperatives to prepare women to be liquor distributors and also to establish District Cooperative bank.

Women in Taverns and Stokvels Want Women in Taverns and Stokvels Want to Grow Their Businessesto Grow Their Businesses

Ms Thezi Mabuza addressing Women in stokvels and taverns business

It was a full house as women came out in numbers.


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We need to make an oath of success by standing together to transform the mining sector; this was said by MEC Motlalepula Rosho during her interaction with women in the mining sector as part of her Depart-mental women’s month programme in Rustenburg recently. The MEC took a different approach this time by interacting with women in their different sectors to solicit inputs towards the development of Provincial intervention strategy that will empower women across all sectors to participate in the mainstream economy.“I urged you to do proper work in your businesses and comply with the mining charter and other relevant legisla-tions. By doing this we will be in a position to maximise the revenue collection of the province and will create jobs and alleviate poverty especially among the young gen-eration’’, Rosho said. The event was attended by approximately 100 women from all the districts of the North West Province. As the theme says it all “Unity in action towards women in socio economic

MEC Rosho Empowers MEC Rosho Empowers Women In MiningWomen In Mining

freedom” The women took a pledge of working together and partnering with gov-ernment to increase the percentage of their participation in the sector. In address-ing the women, the Provincial Chairperson of South African Women in Mining Associa-tion (SAWIMA) Ms Lucy Ngwabeni gave a presentation on their achievements and challenges since the establishment of their association in 1999. The Association was established to assist women in mining groups to obtain mineral rights and operate businesses in mining sector.

She said since the inception of SAWIMA, the Department have offered meaningful support as they were in position in different policy formulation like ASGISA, Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) and some of their members went on trade missions through the then Invest North West. “We are still facing challenges espe-cially in accessing procurement opportuni-ties; funding and lack of relevant skills in

MEC Rosho and Ms. Lucy Ngwabeni as they sung the women’s anthem.

Attendees at the Women Session in Mining.


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this sector. This poses a negative impact when we approach mining companies,” said Ngwabeni. The women requested the MEC’s interven-tion to engage mining companies to include them in their databases and utilise their services. This will reduce fronting as the current practise by most of mining companies in South Africa. At the interac-tive session, tangible resolutions were taken which include continuous implemen-tation of Departmental skills development programme; joint ventures amongst women companies; having mines owned

by women and to have a beneficiation hub in the North West Province.“We will be developing a programme of action with all the executives of all Women Associations in the North West. Through the programme my Department will be in position to formu-late strategies that will empower women and increase their participation in growing the economy of the North West Province,” said Rosho in her concluding remarks. The Department continued with the inter-action around the province with women in recycling, creative industry and taverns throughout the month of August.

The North West Provincial Department of Economic Development, Environment Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT) took its first step of taking tourism to another level by reviewing the Tourism Master Plan. The Department therein resolved to embark on the District Tourism Lekgotla, covering all districts in the province to solicit inputs from all stakeholders in the tourism industry. This will inform a compi-lation of an envisaged comprehensive North West Province Tourism Sector Strategy which will be used to guide all participants in the industry.

The first embarkation of this tourism consultative session started at Brits in Bojanala district on the 18th November and ended on the 29th November 2013 at Zeerust in the Ngaka Modiri Molema

Rosho Takes Tourism Rosho Takes Tourism to Another Levelto Another Level

District. These insightful and interactive consultative sessions reached out to many tourism product owners and were also attended by captains of the industry.

MEC Rosho addressing the attendees at the Workshop.


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Amongst others present was Mr Soza Msi-mango, Domestic Tourism Director in charge for North West and Limpopo Prov-ince from the National Department of Tour-ism. He gave a strategic overview of the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) in which its implication is to align the North West Province Tourism Sector Strategy to the objectives of the NTSS.

In her keynote addresses, MEC Motlalepula Rosho’s emphasis was that it is important that cognisance should be taken when developing new strategies so that tourism should take the centre stage of economic development in the Province. The MEC said that the Department has started taking shape in developing and streamlining tour-ism industry in the Province amongst other things, e.g. resolving to work together with entertainment proprietors of the Mahikeng popular music event, “the 60’s,” and other

relevant sectors to build morality around that festivity, such entertainment events contribute in attracting tourists into the province. “The tourism Master Plan should not only focus on the development of well known destinations or products but we must through this spirit of working together con-sider unlocking and unleashing other opportunities from our heritage and cultures, package them properly and be introduce it to the international market,” added Rosho. She also encouraged stake-holders to be the marketing ambassadors of the Province through promoting provin-cial tourism products at all times, hence working together we can do more. Emphasising the importance of integrated development planning in the tourism sector, the Director – Tourism in the Department, Mr Ishmael Kgokong informed stakeholders that ‘tourism is gov-ernment led, driven by the private sector and community based,’ hence we need to work together. According to Mr Kgokong, the North West Province developed a Tour-ism Master Plan in 1998, and since then it has been partially implemented and has not found ground in terms of develop-ments. In moving forward, Mr Kgokong indicated that the Department will continue working towards developing tourism as it has been identified as one of the priority sectors that can contribute to the economic growth and development in the Province. In his con-cluding remarks, he said that the improve-ment of this Tourism Master Plan will guide the province in addressing its socio-economic challenges and will also ensure alignment with current development dynamics and policies such as the New Growth Path, Industrialization Policy Action Plan (IPAP) 2&3, NTSS and National Devel-opment Plan (NDP) 2030 vision.

Top: Mr Ismael Kgokong presenting the envisaged goals of the MagkotlaBottom: Audience members at the Workshop in Brits.


“Let’s try to avoid getting ourselves into debt and buying things we can’t afford”, said Mr. Seile Letsogo: Deputy Director of Consumer Affairs within the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism. Letsogo was addressing community members, govern-ment employees, NGO’s, municipalities and youth structures during the Consumer Protection Workshop at Huhudi Home Based Care in Vryburg.

The purpose of the workshop was to edu-cate consumers about their rights and responsibilities and to encourage commu-nity members to visit the consumer affairs office in the province to resolve queries and for advice.

“Our people are paying funeral insurances without knowing the services they are paying for. It’s important for consumers to exercise caution when signing contracts, consumers must carefully read and under-stand the terms as there might have adverse consequences and should not be discouraged from reading voluminous documents written in small print as these may compromise their rights”, said Mr. Letsogo.

Consumers Urged Not to Fall Consumers Urged Not to Fall into a Debt Trapinto a Debt Trap

Consumers were also advised on issues to consider when buying motor vehicles, whether second hand or new and on saving during the festive season. Mr Luscious Bodibe from the Motor Industry Ombudsman highlighted that consumers should always consult with relevant institutions before contracting. “When a consumer has bought a vehicle and within 6 months notices defects on it, the consumer can go back to the dealer-ship and is entitled to ask the supplier to replace, repair or refund him”. Bodibe said. This is a right envisaged in terms of the Consumer Protection Act where consumers are afforded an implied warranty for six months. He further advised participants not to take cars from dealerships without number plates or any other parts on delivery.

Furthermore, the Department has concluded awareness programmes around the province to make consumers aware of the unscrupulous practises during the festive season.

DEDECT officials informing the public in Bapong

DEDECT Officials informing members of the public on their rights as consumers.

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Economic Development Takes Economic Development Takes Services to the PeopleServices to the People

Community members attending the awareness campaign in Disaneng

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism through its Enterprise Information Centres, conducted Awareness Campaigns in three districts within the province as a way of bringing government information and services closer to the people and to promote access to opportunities as a basis for improved livelihoods.

The objective of the campaign was to create awareness about the services offered by the Department through its Infor-mation Centres and to mobilize community members to utilize the centres to get information on enterprise development and other government services that might assist to reduce unem-ployment and poverty.

Part of the objective of the cam-paign was to introduce the three Enterprise Information Centres established by the Department in Mokgalwaneng, Lebotloane, and Logagane as way of disseminating informa-tion about Small Medium Micro

Enterprise (SMME’s), Access to Finance, Drafting of Business Plans, Environmental Services, Tourism Initiatives and govern-ment programs to communities around the North West Province. The Department was accompanied by the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA), Department of Home Affairs, Labour, GCIS and SASSA as a way of engaging them and other govern-ment Departments to utilize the centres effectively.

The campaign benefitted approximately 2500 people per district. Through the campaign unemployed youth man-aged to register as coop-eratives and through the Department of Labour they registered their CV’s on database as job seek-ers. Community members are urged to make use of the Information Centers to communicate their needs and to get information that will be of assistance to them.

Mr Zubane (DEDECT Environment Unit) giving a presentation on

Environmental Services


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“Innovation remains the critical component of any enterprise development leading to new economic, entrepreneurial, or educa-tional opportunities, with prospects for social and personal change” said Deputy Minister for Depart-ment of Trade and Industry (DTI), Ms Elizabeth Thabethe during the 2013 Technology for Women in Business (TWIB) Seminar which was held in the Mmabatho Convention Centre on Thursday, 31st October 2013. More than seven hundred women entrepreneurs from different provinces in the country attended this prestigious seminar which was aimed at encouraging and promoting the culture of technology utilization in business. The seminar was organized by TWIB in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry, South African Women Enterprise Network (SAWEN), and Cell C which provided sponsorship of the best technology devices to the winners. Deputy Minister Thabethe said technology can bring about change and create new markets and businesses for international and regional collaboration, thus enhancing the social and economic standing of women to rise. She also said that the DTI has programmes that were being rolled-out along with financial incentives to support the utilization of technological innovation in enterprises, especially those that are owned by previously disadvantaged people.

Technology for Women in BusinessTechnology for Women in Business(TWIB) Seminar(TWIB) Seminar

She further urged all women entrepreneurs to be conver-sant of these programmes and present the necessary applications to access them.

Amongst the speakers was the MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) in the North West Province, Ms Motlalepula Rosho who gave a message of support said it was encouraging to see women entrepreneurs gathered in one place to share information and knowledge.

“We must translate the economic resolutions taken by government and align them to the National Development Plan (NDP) which seeks to include and integrate previously disadvantaged people into the mainstream economy” emphasized MEC Rosho. Accord-ing to Rosho, the North-West Provincial Government is creating a conducive environ-ment for women businesses to thrive and be sustainable. In her concluding remarks, MEC Rosho said her Department will continue to support women programmes and work together with the DTI to address challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in South Africa.

The seminar was succeeded by the formal and annual TWIB awards ceremony which is intended to give recognition to outstanding individual accomplishments whilst encourag-ing women to grow their businesses through innovation and invention.

MEC Rosho highlighting the power of women in her address


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The National Treasury’s Co-operative Banks Development Agency (CBDA) in partnership with the North West Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), and the African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSCA) hosted a three day, 14th Savings and Credit Co-operative Associations (SACCA) congress in Sun City, North West. The congress was officially opened on Tuesday 29th October by North West MEC of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism Motlalepula Rosho during a Gala dinner at the Sun City’s Royal ballroom hall. The congress focused on “technology: Accelerating financial inclusion using Co-operative model”.

Fourteenth SACCA Congress in Sun CityFourteenth SACCA Congress in Sun City

The congress was preceded by a two day training for Co-operative Financial Institutions (CFI’s) from all over Africa. The training was meant for information sharing, learning and was focused on loan management, product development, strategic planning and Board Governance.

MEC Motlalepula Rosho gave a key note address on behalf of the Premier Thandi Modise. In her keynote address she said co-operatives have a fantastic financial contribution to the economy. “CFI’s are impor-tant because they are appropriate vehicle for employment creation, economic empower-ment, economic development and growth”. She said Co-operatives have a comparable social advantage over conventional business enterprises because they are cost effective due to member commitment and participa-tion. The interest rates on loans are decided upon by the members and are usually better than commercial financial institutions.

tive model of enterprise is a surer hope for the transformation and development of Africa. “To this end, all hands must be on deck to support cooperative Development in Africa as finance is an important sub-sector of our cooperative movement”, she said. Cooperative capital is one of the five pillars of our Africa cooperative Development strategy, 2013-2016. The others are participation, Sustainability, cooperative identity and image, and legal framework. Dr Chiyoge says though there are so many success stories there are challenges at the continental level. “We have identified that some of the major challenges of cooperatives in Africa arise from poor adoption of the coop-erative model as a sustainable business enter-prise. There is poor organisational develop-ment and growth, inadequate legal frame-work and policies for cooperative, the level of member participation across the continent is still low, capital base, surplus and the share of the market are low as well”, she said.

The final day of the congress was marked by awarding the best financial cooperatives in the country. The first prise went to our very own Ditsobotla Co-operative bank from the North West Province.

During the opening the International Coop-erative Alliance (ICA) Africa Regional Director Dr Chiyoge B Sifasaid adopting the coopera-

The best financial co-operative award was won by Ditsobolta Co-operative Bank, from the North West Province

The SACCA congress attracted representatives from 27 countries in Africa


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The North West Provincial Department of Eco-nomic Development, Environment, Conser-vation and Tourism (DEDECT), once again, embarked on insightful and interactive sessions in the form of workshops with women under the theme “Women making an economic impact through improved produc-tion and management.”

Women participation and contribution in the North West Economy, and on the national and global scale, should no longer be a debate and their contribution can no longer be considered insignificant. The North West Government is continuously striving to develop and imple-ment programmes that respond to the needs of women, youth and people with disabilities. It is upon this background that DEDECT held the first of these sessions, in partnership with Batlhaping Baphuduhutswana Tribal Authority and Dr Ruth Segomotso Mompati District Municipality, at the Tribal Authority Hall in Taung.

“The purpose of these sessions is to assist women as well as youth and people with disabilities by empowering them to be creative and utilise their entrepreneurial skills efficiently. There is a need to initiate industrial enterprises by establishing Primary and Sec-ondary Cooperatives, with the intention to facilitate access to Technology.

We further intend to inform women coopera-tives on how they will grow and be supported by the application of the preferential procure-ment act, by working with them over a period of three years. This will assist and have a direct impact on communities by creating jobs, alleviating poverty and generating an income. It will enhance sector specific produc-tion while creating the expertise, knowledge and improved abilities so vitally needed” said Mr Timothy Mkhondo Director of Economic Empowerment in the Department.

Economic Development Supports Economic Development Supports Women Empowerment Growth InitiativeWomen Empowerment Growth Initiative

Emphasising on the Development of Second-ary Cooperatives strategy Mr Neo Lekaowa, a representative from SEDA, said; “there are programmes at SEDA which are designed to incubate cooperatives by first registering them, identifying their needs and training them.” He further mentioned that the Technology transfer grant needs to be utilised in order to increase accessibility of technologies and technical support for small enterprises. “This will combat and reduce small enterprise failure rates, improve small enterprise competitiveness and promote the use of quality systems and standards by small enterprises,” explained Mr Lekaowa.

The role of agencies like SEDA is to develop and support key stakeholders responsible for economic development and job creation. Working together with SEDA, the Department aims to encourage people to form coopera-tive with the right objectives so that they need not rely solely on financial grants but also be able to sustain their cooperatives. DEDECT will host its interactive workshops across all districts in the Province, and aims to support cooperatives with the necessary after care service which is of prime importance.

Neo Lekaowa (SEDA) advising women to look into structuring a co-operative


• 19 •

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, together with its agency, the North West Parks and Tour-ism Board recently represented the province at the World Travel Market in London, U.K.

World Travel Market is the leading global event for the travel industry,it is consid-ered the must-attend four-day business-to-business exhibition for the worldwide travel and tourism industry. Almost 48,000 senior travel industry professionals, gov-ernment ministers and inter-national press, embark on Excel exhibition centre, London, every November to network, negotiate and discover the latest industry opinion and trends.

NW Represents at the World Travel NW Represents at the World Travel Market in LondonMarket in London

The North West delegation led by the NWPTB Chairperson, Mme Dudu Boemah, took a concerted effort to make the province known

on an international scale. The North West Province took advantage of this platform by presenting its trade, investment and tourism opportunities to the international market. Ms Dudu Boemah, Chairperson of the NWPTB explained “The World Travel Market is the ideal stage for us and tour operators to attract international travel to the province, it encapsulates the focal tourism points our province has to offer and makes it available to a large audience which gathers for this occasion”.

Minister Van Schalkwyk chatting to the NWPTB Chaiperson Ms. Dudu Boemah, at the North West Province Stall.

SA Tourism CEO Thulani Nzima, welcoming people to the SA Exhibition Stand.


• 20 •

A concerted effort to understand the new tourism trends in the international market with a view to identifying mutually beneficial relations was the ultimate advantage. The strategic location of the Province together with its natural resource endowment is viewed as a strategic entry point into Sub-Saharan Africa, with world class tourism facilities. The mission provided the NWP with a platform to showcase its competitive and comparative advantage and is in line with objectives relating to the identification and fostering of strategic partnerships in input tourism markets. The ability to brand the province internationally showcases the advantage the NWP has in terms of key tourists’ attractions. The WTM is one platform where the opportunity to foster relations is unrivalled. The platform has provided the province with a competitive advantage in terms of gaining global knowledge of the tourism industry, as well as tourism market exposure gained on an international stage.

The WTM was preceded by the Ubuntu awards which are also hosted in London. “Tourist arrivals from the United Kingdom (UK) to South Africa grew by 4.2% from 420,483 in 2011 to 438,023 in 2012. For us to have achieved the extraordinary success we have in this market, we rely on the travel trade to be frontline ambassadors for our destination. The Ubuntu Awards are our way of recognising UK tour operators’ success in promoting our country as a premier global destination,” explains Chief Executive Officer at South African Tourism, Thulani Nzima. In further promoting South Africa as a compel-ling destination to the consumer, the evening was graced with a special appearance by Minister of Tourism in South Africa, Mr. Marthinus van Schalkwyk. Now in its sixth year, the Awards ceremony has a profound effect on attracting even more tourism to South Africa.

Tourism SA Exhibition Stand


• 21 •

The MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Hon. Motlalepula Rosho performed a sod turning for the upgrade of Manyane Game Lodge tourism facilities, in Mafikeng on Friday, the 6th of December 2013. The occasion also recognized and welcomed the 150 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers who will be employed and trained during the implementa-tion of the project.

The upgrade of Manyane Lodge facilities form part of a greater initiative between the National Department of Tourism (NDT) and the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB), aimed at contributing towards poverty alleviation and skills development of the 150 local people employed. “We have got to have a social relationship with the local people, more especially those living adjacent to provincial game reserves. The Expanded Pubic Works Programme and partnership with the National Department of Tourism is one vehicle through which we are able to solidify our relationship with the local people. With the amount of investment we have received for the upgrade of the Man-yane Lodge tourism infra-structure, there are natural benefits which are gained by our communities, such as jobs and skills.”, said Rosho.

“Communities are our first line of defense in as far as fighting poaching of game species and any criminal acts affecting provincial game reserves. Our partnership with them is very important as we continue in our fight against rhino poaching.” Rosho added.

Manyane Game Lodge Gets FaceliftManyane Game Lodge Gets FaceliftThe project is implemented through the NWPTB Social Responsibility Programme (SRP) and estimated to be completed by 31 December 2015. “This infrastructure upgrade involves the construction of a 500 seater conference facility, refurbishment of 20 existing chalets, construction of 10 executive chalets and a 250 seater restau-rant. The investment comes at an opportune time when Mafikeng’s business tourism is growing. The upgrade of Manyane will enhance Mafikeng’s capacity in terms of accommodation and conferencing. The cherry on top is the fact that Manyane is located inside of the Mafikeng Game Reserve, and therefore, visitors are guaran-teed a good mix of products, which will ultimately enhance visitors’ experience.” explained Allan Losaba, Chief Executive of the NWPTB.

The infrastructure upgrade includes roads and parking area, water supply and sewer reticulation system. The sod turning ceremony marks the beginning of exciting developments in the Province.

Kgosi Jeff Montshioa, MEC Motlalepula Rosho, Kgosi Motlhabane and EPWP Workers at the sod turning.


• 22 •

VISION PRESS TEL: (018) 381 2998 / 9

Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism Private Bag X15, Mmabatho 2735Private Bag X15, Mmabatho 2735

Comminication & IT Directorate: Tel: (018) 387 7712 • Fax: (018) 387 7001Comminication & IT Directorate: Tel: (018) 387 7712 • Fax: (018) 387 7001

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