Mahikeng: The North West Provincial Government has earmarked R24 million to establish a Development Fund aimed at accelerating development initiatives throughout the province. This initiative is designed with a focus on stimulating economic growth and creating sustainable job opportunities.
According to South African Government News Agency, North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi announced the fund during his State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the provincial legislature. He noted that the Economic and Investment Advisory Council’s efforts are producing positive outcomes. The Council assists the province in driving its industrialisation programme, attracting investments, and implementing the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy.
During the SOPA, Premier Mokgosi outlined the province’s strategic priorities for the next five years. These include inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and building a capable and ethical State. He addressed challenges such as high unemployment and poverty rates, emphasising the need for aggressive measures to combat these issues.
Among the announced initiatives are the expansion of the National School Nutrition Programme to provide two meals per day to learners in more schools and the launch of the ‘Ntime o Mphele Ngwana Poverty Alleviation Programme’ to combat hunger among children and youth. Infrastructure development is also a priority, with investments in road projects, water and sanitation improvements, and the construction of new schools and clinics.
Additionally, plans to revitalise the Taung irrigation scheme and other agricultural projects aim to boost food production and support emerging farmers. The collaboration between the Vaalharts Water Users Association, the Department of Water and Sanitation, and the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality is expected to increase water supply in areas such as Taung, Pudimoe, and Huhudi.
Mokgosi reiterated the government’s commitment to creating job opportunities through public employment programs, aiming to generate over 150,000 job opportunities over the next five years. The provincial government is fostering relations with the private sector to address infrastructure backlogs and attract investment. The Mekgareng Smart City project, a collaborative initiative with Gauteng, is anticipated to create 20,000 jobs in Madibeng Local Municipality and attract significant investment.
The provincial government is also partnering with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Phila Jordan Academy to provide training opportunities to 3,000 beneficiaries in artisanal and tooling programs. Over 1,200 young people are participating in a National Youth Service programme, with more than 7,000 youth having received skills and job placements.
In his address, Mokgosi also covered efforts to promote clean governance, combat corruption, and improve audit outcomes. He concluded with a call for unity and collaboration among stakeholders to tackle the province’s socioeconomic challenges and build a better future for all residents.