In a district that produces much of the world’s platinum yet continues to grapple with high unemployment, leaders gathered at the Bojanala Platinum District Economic Development Symposium with a shared message: economic growth must begin improving the lives of ordinary people.
Addressing government officials, business leaders and community stakeholders, North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi acknowledged the difficult reality facing many residents. Despite the province’s rich mineral resources and strong mining sector, thousands of young people remain unemployed while poverty and inequality continue to affect communities.
Mokgosi noted that South Africa’s economy is expected to grow by only one to two percent in the coming years, a rate he said is too low to create the jobs needed to change people’s lives. He called for stronger partnerships between government, business and communities to unlock investment and stimulate economic activity.
The Bojanala Platinum District Municipality Mayor Suzan Mthangeni echoed these concerns, emphasising that the district’s mineral wealth should benefit local communities beyond the mining sector. He highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship and creating opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.
The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong reinforced the call for economic transformation, urging stakeholders to move beyond the extraction of raw minerals and focus on beneficiation and industrialisation. According to the Deputy Minister, creating local industries and adding value to the province’s resources could generate sustainable jobs and broaden economic participation.
While the symposium focused on policy and investment, the underlying concern remained clear: ensuring that economic growth reaches households struggling with unemployment and limited opportunities.
