MOSES KOTANE – 28 November 2024

In a collaborative effort to enhance international collaboration, the MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane, MEC Virginia Tlhapi for Sports, Arts & Culture, and MEC for the Department of Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi hosted a delegation from Henan Province, China, at Ivory Tree Game Lodge in Pilanesberg in the Moses Kotane local municipality.

The delegation was accompanied by Kgosi Nyalala Pilane of Bakgatla Ba Kgafela, Moses Kotane Local Municipality Mayor Cllr Nketu Nkotswe, and senior government officials.

The engagement aimed to revitalize the longstanding partnership between Henan and the North West Province, focusing on strengthening economic ties and positioning the province as a premier investment destination. Discussions centered on unlocking opportunities for mutual growth in key sectors, including mining, automotive manufacturing, infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, and technology.

This meeting follows the North West Province’s recent visits to Gyeongsangbuk-do Province in South Korea and Henan Province in China, where Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) were established to bolster trade, tourism, and knowledge exchange.

The mission is part of a broader strategy to reinforce the province’s economic pillars, driving sustainable development, creating jobs, and attracting substantial investment. Key initiatives proposed during engagements in China and South Korea are expected to catalyze transformative growth across various industries.

During their visit, the delegation explored cultural and industrial landmarks, including the Mphebatho Museum in Moruleng and the Bojanala Special Economic Zone. These visits provided insights into the province’s industrial trading areas and facilitated direct engagement with local businesses.

The site visit to the Bojanala SEZ area and business interaction with two companies, namely, Reboni School Furniture, and Biosel Laboratories were well received and will bolster interest from Chinese industrialists interested in setting up manufacturing and other businesses in the proposed Bojanala Special Economic Zone.

The NWDC Executive officials who participated were Mr Mojalefa Nale (CEO), Ms Morakane Seleke (Company Secretary), Mr Alfred Tau (Executive: SEZ), and Mr Lovemore Makunike (Manager Trade and Investment). Operational staff from NWDC Marketing and Communications, SEZ and properties were on site to render assistance.

The outcomes of this mission will be closely monitored to ensure the implementation of agreed initiatives, as the North West Province continues its journey towards economic transformation and global competitiveness.