The Portfolio Head for Local Economic Development at Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Cllr Caroline Motshabi, has reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to supporting women-owned tourism enterprises during the North West Women in Tourism Programme held at Kings Gate, Rustenburg, under the theme “Share, Empower and Transform.”
Cllr Motshabi said the municipality recognises tourism as a key driver of local economic development, job creation and women’s economic empowerment.
“Moses Kotane Local Municipality remains committed to creating an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs in the tourism sector to grow and prosper. Our municipality is home to world-renowned tourism destinations, and we believe women must play a leading role in shaping and benefiting from this vibrant industry,” said Cllr Motshabi.
Moses Kotane Local Municipality through Business , Tourism support unit has, over the years, partnered with stakeholders to provide support and resources to women-owned tourism businesses to promote sustainability and long-term growth.
Through collaborative initiatives with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) and Women in Tourism platform, female tourism business owners continue to receive valuable capacity-building opportunities.
The programme equipped participants with knowledge on labour legislation, taxation compliance, accessing empowerment funding opportunities, business productivity and sustainability. Motivational sessions also inspired women entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
Tourism students from various institutions also attended the programme, where they gained practical insights into the tourism industry and engaged with established business leaders, helping to prepare them for future careers in the sector.
“When women succeed in tourism, our communities benefit through increased employment, enterprise development and sustainable local economic growth. Together, we will continue to share opportunities, empower one another and transform the tourism sector for future generations,”