KLERKSDORP — Women entrepreneurs and government leaders gathered at the Rio Casino on Saturday, 29 August 2026, to chart a new course for female-led economic transformation in the tourism sector.
The North West Women in Tourism (NWWiT) Women’s Month Closing Business Breakfast shifted the focus from celebration to concrete economic action. Under the theme “Women Leading Tourism Transformation: Building Sustainable Businesses, Strong Partnerships and Inclusive Growth in the North West Province,” the event united key stakeholders to dismantle barriers facing women in the industry.
Executive Mayor Councillor Fikile Mahlophe opened the session by welcoming high-profile dignitaries, including Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu.
Mahlophe positioned tourism as a critical pillar for Local Economic Development. He issued a strong call to action for increased female ownership, targeted procurement, and strategic investment to drive local job creation.
NWWiT Chairperson Gibby Memane challenged attendees to look past symbolic monthly celebrations. She defined the gathering’s core purpose as a matchmaking platform to connect women-owned enterprises directly with funders and government networks. Memane emphasized that sustainable growth requires immediate, practical market access and robust industry partnerships.
In her keynote address, Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu detailed the various grants and development incentives available to emerging tourism businesses. However, she issued a vital reminder that financial backing depends heavily on corporate governance.
Sotyu urged women entrepreneurs to prioritize strict business compliance, noting that formal regulation remains the definitive gateway to unlocking state funding and scaling operations.
“The Deputy Minister also expressed her appreciation for concluding Women’s Month in the North West Province, particularly in Matlosana.
“The programme included panel discussions focusing on strategic leadership and the future of women in tourism; partnerships for women’s economic empowerment; skills development, mentorship and youth participation; and opportunities within rural and medical tourism,” said the municipality in a statement.
The Business Breakfast wrapped up with a clear reminder: supporting women cannot just be a focus during August. For real, lasting change, women-led businesses need ongoing access to financing, new markets, training, and strategic partnerships. This support is what allows them to scale up, hire workers, and boost the tourism sector.
Moving forward, the City of Matlosana pledges to collaborate with private businesses, tourism leaders, and government agencies to build an inclusive and thriving economy.
