Committee Calls for Stronger SMME Aftercare and Demands Accountability from Parks Board

The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism has called for stronger post-investment support for SMMEs while demanding greater accountability from the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) during oversight visits in the Bojanala District.
During presentations by DEDECT and the NWPTB, Committee Members raised concerns that government support often ends once machinery and equipment have been handed over, leaving beneficiaries without the mentorship and technical assistance needed to sustain and expand their businesses.

Hon. Johanna Steenkamp stressed that inadequate aftercare could stunt the growth of SMMEs, arguing that without continuous business support, government interventions fall short of achieving their intended developmental impact.

Portfolio Committee Chairperson Hon. Mpho Khunou echoed these concerns, saying the absence of a dedicated incubation hub for the textile and clothing sector limits the Department’s ability to identify businesses requiring support and provide continuous enterprise development. Although DEDECT indicated that a database of businesses was established last year, officials acknowledged that they have not yet reached as many enterprises as anticipated.

At Deep Moon Trading, owner Mercia Ramagaga told the Committee that additional machinery and equipment would enable the business to increase production, expand clothing manufacturing training and meet growing demand from retail clients, including YDE. The Department also identified limited production infrastructure as a constraint to expansion.
During a visit to Magosi Trading, trading as Las Vegas Restaurant and Butchery, Members observed that a lack of aftercare leaves beneficiaries without assistance when machinery breaks down. Hon. Khunou said sustained mentorship and business development support would help enterprises remain competitive despite the emergence of newer establishments.

The Committee also expressed dissatisfaction with NWPTB Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Denga’s presentation, saying it failed to adequately account for progress on recommendations previously made regarding the sustainability of provincial resorts. Hon. Steenkamp and Hon. Khunou said the Committee expected measurable implementation rather than broad updates. Chairperson Khunou subsequently directed the CEO to submit a comprehensive report within seven days detailing progress on every recommendation and the systems being implemented to sustain the province’s resorts.

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