The North West is set for a major economic boost, and I can’t help but feel optimistic about what’s coming. The provincial government has allocated R24 million to establish a Development Fund aimed at accelerating growth and creating sustainable job opportunities. This move, announced by Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi during his State of the Province Address (SOPA), signals a step in the right direction for tackling unemployment and poverty.
As someone who has closely followed economic development in South Africa, I know how crucial it is to have strong investment strategies. The Economic and Investment Advisory Council, which has been working behind the scenes, is finally seeing positive results. Their mission? To drive industrialisation, attract investments, and ensure that the province’s Growth and Development Strategy is fully realised.
One of the most exciting prospects is the planned Regional Research, Innovation, and Development Office, which will be spearheaded by the Office of the Premier. The focus here is on Science, Technology, and Engineering—three pillars that can truly transform North West’s economy.
Tackling Poverty Head-On
The province is taking a bold approach to addressing poverty. One key initiative is the expansion of the National School Nutrition Programme, which will now provide two meals per day to more learners. This is a game-changer for thousands of children who rely on school meals. On top of that, the new “Ntime o Mphele Ngwana Poverty Alleviation Programme” is set to combat hunger among children and youth.
Infrastructure is another priority, with significant investments being pumped into road projects, water and sanitation improvements, and the construction of new schools and clinics. For many communities, these projects won’t just mean better services; they’ll also translate into job opportunities and long-term economic benefits.
Creating Jobs and Attracting Investment
Job creation remains a hot topic, and rightly so. The government is committing to generating over 150 000 jobs in the next five years. Public employment programmes, such as community health and labour activation initiatives, will play a key role in ensuring that opportunities reach youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
Another highlight is the Mekgareng Smart City project in Madibeng, expected to create 20 000 jobs and attract investments worth up to R25 billion. This ambitious collaboration between North West, Gauteng, and the national Department of Human Settlements could be the catalyst for a much-needed economic transformation in the region.
Beyond job creation, skills development is getting a boost, too. The provincial government has partnered with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Phila Jordan Academy to train 3 000 individuals in artisanal and tooling programmes. Plus, more than 7 000 youth have already been placed in jobs after undergoing skills training.
A Call for Unity and Progress
Premier Mokgosi didn’t just focus on development—he also spoke about clean governance and tackling corruption. If these commitments are followed through, the province could see real change.
“Ours is a skewed past centred on exploitation, exclusion, and oppression, but we remain hopeful about the socio-economic prospects of our province,” he said. His call for unity and collaboration is one that I believe we should all take seriously. If government, private sector players, and communities work together, the North West can finally unlock its full potential.
The road ahead won’t be easy, but with these investments and initiatives, I truly believe the province is heading in the right direction.