MAHIKENG – The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), together with its entities, has held a two-day strategic planning session, from the 17th to 18th of March 2026, aimed at shaping the province’s economic direction for the 2026/27 financial year.

The session, held at the Mmabatho Convention Centre, was led by MEC Bitsa Lenkopane and Head of Department Relebohile Mofokane, and brought together key stakeholders from national and provincial government, as well as parastatals.

The strategic engagement seeked to collaboratively develop the department’s Annual Performance Plan (APP) and Annual Operational Plan (AOP), with a strong emphasis on aligning programmes to community needs.

Addressing delegates, MEC Lenkopane stressed that the planning process must go beyond routine exercises and focus on tangible outcomes. She highlighted that communities across the province must remain the primary beneficiaries of all departmental initiatives.

“Our plans must be aligned with the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy to ensure accountability and effective response to the needs of our people,” she said, adding that job creation remains the department’s flagship priority.

As part of recognising performance excellence, the MEC awarded certificates to programmes that achieved a 100% performance target during the 2025/26 financial year. Notably, the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) was honoured as the “Most Improved Entity.”

In a media statement, released on the 20th of March 2026, NWPTB confirmed that the recognition was received by Acting CEO J. Denga, who reaffirmed the entity’s commitment to strengthening governance, financial sustainability, and driving tourism growth.

The board indicated that it will intensify efforts to expand market reach, enhance visitor experiences, and ensure that conservation initiatives contribute meaningfully to socio-economic development across communities.

The session is expected to continue with focused breakaway discussions aimed at aligning departmental priorities with broader provincial strategies.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to position the North West Province for inclusive growth under the banner.

-The VIP Team 

-NWPTB

-NW DEDECT