Note to Broadcasters: Please find a linked soundbite in English by Freddy Sonakile MPL.
The DA in North West conducted an oversight inspection in Modimong in Greater Taung yesterday and found no progress on the planned tourism development by the Provincial Department of Economic Development, Environment Conservation and Tourism, despite an almost R1 million feasibility study. See images here, here, here and here.
The business plan and the feasibility study were conducted during the 2017/18 financial year by Urban-Econ Development Economists (Pty) Ltd but seems to be gathering dust somewhere within the department’s offices.
The DA submitted a written to the then MEC Keneetswe Mosenogi last year who responded that R987,921.00 was paid for the feasibility study. In a follow-up question this year, North West Premier Bushy Maape indicated that his government is still trying to secure an investor to launch the project and also blamed the delay to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The feasibility study included a situational analysis, a concept plan, a marketing plan, and a business plan for the Modimong Nature Reserve. The project is aimed at stimulating local economic growth and creating at least 51 direct new job opportunities for permanent staff.
The DA will now write to Premier Maape to provide timeframes as to when the project will be implemented to the benefit of Taung residents. This can’t be another incident where the North West Provincial Government spend taxpayer money on a plan that is never implemented. Modimong residents deserve better.