October 2025 has been a productive month for the JB Marks Local Municipality, marked by initiatives focused on economic growth, community empowerment, and good governance. From hands-on skills development workshops to provincial oversight visits, these activities demonstrate continued efforts to promote accountability, transparency, and inclusive local development.

First Aid Training for Local Tourism Services (21–22 October)

The JB Marks Local Municipality’s Department of Local Economic and Rural Development, in collaboration with the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), hosted a two-day First Aid training session for local tourism service providers at the Vredefort Dome.

The session, held on October 21 and 22, aimed to equip participants with essential emergency response skills. Tourism operators, guides, and small business owners took part in the practical training, which emphasized immediate response techniques, CPR, and injury management, all vital for safety in adventure and tourism settings.

The event highlighted the municipality’s commitment to professionalizing local tourism services and enhancing visitor safety in one of the region’s most prominent natural attractions. This collaboration underscores the importance of capacity building in driving sustainable tourism and supporting small businesses in the sector.

NWPL Oversight Visit to Local Art Entrepreneur (21 October)

As part of Oversight Week in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, the North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, led by Hon. Mpho Khunou, visited Potchefstroom-based artist and entrepreneur Mr. Mpho “Gift” Dithipe.

Mr. Dithipe, who operates Ka Molomo (Pty) Ltd, is a remarkable mouth-painting visual artist and Karate Sensei from Promosa. Despite physical challenges, he continues to inspire young people through art and discipline. DEDECT has supported his work with materials, market access, and entrepreneurial training.

However, discussions during the visit revealed concerns about discrepancies in reported support values, prompting calls from Hon. Khunou for clearer departmental accountability. The engagement reaffirmed the Legislature’s focus on ensuring transparency and fairness in public funding while celebrating individual resilience and talent within the JB Marks community.

Public Accountability and Audit Hearings (22 October)

The Standing Committee on Provincial Public Accounts (SCOPA), chaired by Hon. Smuts Matshe, conducted public hearings with the JB Marks Local Municipality and the Department of Culture, Arts, Sports and Recreation to review the 2024/25 audit outcomes.

The department received praise for achieving a second consecutive clean audit, reflecting robust governance and compliance with financial management legislation. SCOPA commended MEC Virginia Tlhapi and HOD Itumeleng Mogorosi for maintaining fiscal discipline and transparency.

Hon. Matshe also emphasised the need for progress reports on leadership vacancies, record management systems, and support for community sports programs, particularly the Golden Games for older persons and inclusion of People with Disabilities. The hearings reinforced SCOPA’s commitment to strengthening oversight and building public trust in government operations.

Oversight on Infrastructure and Disaster Management Projects (21 October)

The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, chaired by Hon. Kgalalelo Makgokgowa, carried out oversight visits to major municipal projects in JB Marks, including the Ikageng 25ML Water Reservoir and the Disaster Management Centre.

• Ikageng Water Reservoir Project – Launched in 2023 at a cost of R89.7 million, the multi-year project is now 75% complete. Despite delays caused by concrete failures, protests, and weather interruptions, progress has resumed. Municipal Manager Mr. Kgomotso Gumbe confirmed that the project should be fully operational by January 2025, bringing much-needed water supply improvements to local communities.

• Disaster Management Centre Project – Initiated in 2018 at a cost of R20.5 million, this project has suffered repeated setbacks due to poor workmanship and contractor issues. The site was found abandoned during the Committee’s visit, with only a security guard present. Hon. Makgokgowa called for a comprehensive recovery plan and accountability for the loss of public funds, urging the municipality to take decisive corrective action.

These visits were part of the Provincial Legislature’s broader mission to ensure infrastructure delivery and fiscal responsibility across municipalities.

Summary

Throughout October, the JB Marks Local Municipality and its partners have demonstrated a collective effort to strengthen economic development, promote ethical governance, and empower citizens through training and transparency. The month’s events reflect both progress and accountability, setting the tone for continuous improvement and community-driven growth across the region.

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