Mahikeng: In his 2024 State of the Province Address, Acting Premier Nono Maloyi made a compelling narrative of economic resurgence in the North West Province, highlighting substantial job creation and strategic initiatives set to transform the province.
Maloyi announced that the North West Province stands as one of the three provinces with the most significant employment growth during the third quarter of 2023. A staggering 61,000 jobs have been generated, showcasing the administration’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of poverty and unemployment.
Expressing deep concern over persistently high levels of poverty and unemployment, particularly among women and the youth, Acting Premier Maloyi underscored the 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, he emphasised a comprehensive roadmap for economic recovery and promising signs for job creation.
Acting Premier Maloyi highlighted the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism’s pivotal role in notching two vital investment promotion events, namely, the North-West BRICS Investment Conference and the Premier’s Dinner with Investors which yielded 34 investment pledges, totalling over R104.1 billion. Currently, 14 confirmed projects worth R13.5 billion are in the pipeline for the Bojanala Special Economic Zone, promising an additional 10,000 jobs.
The implementation of the Tourism Recovery Plan has already yielded growth in both domestic and international visitors. Acting Premier shared 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. He mentioned that the Requests for Proposals have been sent out, and the preferred bidders are expected to commence work by May this year.
Acting Premier Maloyi announced the completion of the resuscitation of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council, 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.
The imminent announcement of Economic Advisory Council members is scheduled within the next two weeks following consultations with critical stakeholders.
ENDS
Issued by the Office of the Premier
For enquiries, contact
Sello Tatai
Spokesperson to the Premier
North West Provincial Government
Cell: 064 756 2510/082 450 7842
E-mail: statai38@gmail.com
OR
Brian Setswambung
Provincial Head of Communication
Office of the Premier
North West Provincial Government
Cell: 076 012 4501
E-mail: BSetswambung@nwpg.gov.za
