Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), Ms. Pinky Kekana, is set to visit the Nkowankowa Industrial Park in Limpopo Province on 28 July 2023. This visit is part of the Industrial Park Revitalization Programme (IPRP), an initiative implemented by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition to foster economic growth and create employment opportunities within local communities.
Reviewing Progress
Deputy Minister Kekana previously assessed the IPRP’s progress during the monitoring period between September and October 2021. During a subsequent visit on 6 October 2022, several challenges were identified at the Nkowankowa Industrial Park, including the hiring of illegal immigrants, high electricity and water costs, insufficient support for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), and the misuse of local road infrastructure.
The DPME developed an improvement plan in response to these findings, which various stakeholders are implementing. The upcoming visit by Deputy Minister Kekana aims to assess the progress made in addressing these concerns, focusing on aspects such as local enterprise development initiatives, job creation efforts, community development programs, Industrial Park reforms, and water supply security.
Prominent Officials in Attendance
Deputy Minister Kekana will be accompanied by several prominent officials, including Deputy Ministers of Police, Employment and Labour, and Trade, Industry, and Competition, the MEC of LEDET, the Mayor of Mopani District Municipality, and the Mayor of Greater Tzaneen Municipality. Representatives from the Premier’s office will also be present.
Media Attendance
Members of the media are invited to attend the event at the Nkowankowa Townhall in Limpopo from 10:00 to 13:00 on 28 July 2023. Contact person Ms. Lerato Maboea can be reached at 065 660 3839 or via email at Lerato@dpme.gov.za for confirmation.
Promoting Economic Growth
The Nkowankowa Industrial Park revitalization project exemplifies the South African government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, job creation, and community development. The government aims to create a thriving, sustainable economy that benefits all citizens by addressing the challenges faced by local industries and supporting SMMEs.
Continued Support
Initiatives such as the IPRP require continued support and guidance from relevant government departments to ensure their success in achieving targeted goals. The follow-up visits conducted by Deputy Minister Kekana and her team exemplify the government’s dedication to monitoring and evaluating the progress of these projects, ensuring that they remain on track and contribute effectively to the betterment of local communities and the nation as a whole.
