The Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (DrKKDM) has entered a critical phase of its 2026 operational calendar, marked by a series of high-level administrative reviews and expansive community engagement initiatives. Following the North West Provincial Government’s declaration of 2026 as the "Year of Decisive Action to Fix Local Government," the district has intensified its efforts to improve audit outcomes and accelerate service delivery. Recent activities across the district highlight a multi-pronged approach to governance, focusing on accountability, economic stimulation through the arts, and direct intervention in the region’s unemployment challenges.

Council Accountability and Administrative Oversight

On 25 February 2026, the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality convened a Special Council Meeting at the Stilfontein Municipal Chambers. The primary objective of the session was to facilitate rigorous service delivery reporting and enhance institutional accountability. During the meeting, councillors and senior management conducted a comprehensive review of progress regarding key programmes and departmental performance.

The council outlined specific corrective measures aimed at addressing existing bottlenecks in service execution. This session underscores the municipality’s commitment to transitioning from unqualified to clean audit outcomes, a goal echoed by Premier Lazarus Mokgosi during the State of the Province Address (SOPA). By focusing on transparency and responsible governance, the council aims to ensure that municipal operations yield a tangible, positive impact on the lives of residents across the district’s local municipalities.

Promoting Local Heritage: The Tourism, Arts, and Culture Festival

In a move to bolster the local economy and celebrate regional identity, the District Economic Development (DED) department hosted a successful Tourism, Arts, and Culture Festival on 27 February 2026. Held at the Klerksdorp Recreation Centre, the event served as a vibrant platform for local creatives and entrepreneurs.

Key highlights of the festival included:

• Economic Empowerment: Local SMMEs were provided with exhibition stalls, allowing them to showcase and sell products ranging from hand-crafted goods to culinary offerings.

• Cultural Showcase: The event featured performances by local talent, including the prominent Afro-soul artist Lesego, fostering a sense of community pride.

• Global Recognition: The festival featured testimony from North West Women in Tourism representative Ms. Gibby Memane, who shared insights into her journey representing the district in Asia, illustrating the global potential of local tourism.

The event was officially opened by Cllr Abigail Mothupi, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Community Services and LED, who emphasized that the arts and tourism sectors remain vital drivers of job creation within the North West Province.

Bridging the Gap: 2026 Jobs Fair Build-Up Program

Recognizing that the North West Province faces significant unemployment hurdles, the DrKKDM, in partnership with the Department of Employment and Labour, has launched a comprehensive Jobs Fair Build-Up program. This initiative serves as a precursor to the main Careers Fair scheduled for 6 March 2026 at the Madiba Banquet Hall in Potchefstroom.

The build-up sessions, which commenced in Boikhutso Village, brought essential government services directly to the people. Participating entities included the Department of Home Affairs, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), and local municipal development units.

Residents were assisted with:

• Registration on the Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) database.

• Applications for Identity Documents (IDs) and birth certificates.

• Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and Compensation Fund claims.

• Guidance on internships, learnerships, and supply chain opportunities.

The Speaker of Council, Cllr Xolile Nxozana, further extended these efforts by ensuring the Ventersdorp Home Affairs branch remained accessible on Saturday, 28 February, to accommodate residents unable to visit during standard working hours.

Looking Ahead: Continuous Service Delivery and Oversight

As the district moves into the second week of March, focus remains on the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) oversight processes. Public participation sessions regarding the 2024/2025 Annual Report are scheduled to continue, allowing residents to scrutinize municipal performance and provide direct feedback. These efforts, combined with the upcoming main Jobs Fair, signal a proactive start to the year for the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District as it seeks to stabilize its administrative functions and stimulate local growth.

All image credits: Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality

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