The District Development Model (DDM) has become an appropriate unifier between Government and the private sector to work towards a common goal in terms of developing South African communities, according to the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule. As the DDM Political Champion in the Northern Cape Province, Deputy Minister Mhaule is currently attending the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Investment Summit taking place in Kuruman, Northern Cape Province, from 23 – 24 November 2023. It is envisaged that the Summit will strengthen the Public Private Partnership at various spheres of government, particularly in the improvement of service delivery.
During her official address, Deputy Minister Mhaule said that the Summit should be used to compile a final portfolio of investments that will serve as a catalyst for growth and development in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District. “Our objectives are to understand the landscape of possible investment projects, comprehend the existing funding and investment opportunities in the market, and, most importantly, align these projects with suitable investments, thereby securing concrete investment commitments. Moreover, we aim to establish a sustainable pathway for future investments in the district and foster an environment conducive to maintaining robust investor relations. We are privileged to have a diverse and distinguished array of participants. The presence of senior political office bearers from the Provincial Executive Council, led by the Premier, myself as the DDM Political Champion, Executive Mayors, Mayors of local municipalities, Speakers of various municipalities, Councillors, and senior government officials, including senior municipal management and members of parastatals, signifies the importance of this Summit”.
Dr Mhaule added, “We also welcome representatives from development funding institutions, banks, the private sector, local business chambers, and organised community representatives. Your collective insights and contributions will be invaluable. Our methodology for this Summit is interactive and moderated, designed to facilitate dynamic and productive discussions. Over four sessions, we will set the tone by aligning our thoughts and expectations, exploring investment possibilities, delving into financing these opportunities, and linking the opportunities to financing through facilitated commissions”. Deputy Minister Mhaule further urged the participants to engage fully, think innovatively, and collaborate effectively to harness the vast potential of the district. “I look forward to fruitful discussions and ground-breaking outcomes. Let us work together to unlock the immense possibilities within the John Taolo Gaetsewe District.”
Day two of the Summit will see participants consolidating inputs emerging from commissions consisting of key sectors such as AGRI-Tourism; Health and Built Infrastructure; Mining and Industrial Development; and Renewable Energy.