The North West Provincial Government will explore ringfencing funding to support green economy initiatives aimed at creating sustainable jobs, promoting innovation, and unlocking economic opportunities for young people in the North West Province.
North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi made the announcement when he was addressing delegates at the 11th Annual Green Youth Indaba held at Sun City in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality.
The two-day indaba, held on 18 and 19 June 2026, brought together government leaders, industry experts, development partners, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, and young people from across the North West and neighbouring provinces to explore opportunities within the green economy and discuss practical solutions to environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Mokgosi said the event came at an opportune time for the province, as it continues to grapple with high levels of unemployment, particularly among young people.
He stressed that awareness about the opportunities presented by green economy initiatives, including waste management, recycling, renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, must be intensified.
“As the provincial government, we are excited about this programme and commit to supporting green economy initiatives by exploring mechanisms to ringfence resources for programmes that drive inclusive growth and innovation,” Mokgosi said.
The Premier said the green economy is a critical sector that the provincial government must vigorously explore and invest in, as a means of driving economic growth and empowering the youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
He further highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between government, the private sector and academic institutions, amongst others, to ensure that young people are equipped with the skills required to participate meaningfully in emerging green initiatives.
Mokgosi encouraged young people to seize opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and green technology, stressing that these industries have the potential to become major drivers of economic growth and employment in the province.
The Green Youth Indaba serves as a platform for knowledge-sharing and engagement on opportunities in the green economy and solutions that promote sustainable development and job creation.
The event was hosted by the Green Youth Network, a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting youth development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable skills development within the green economy.
It was presented in partnership with government, private sector stakeholders and sponsors as part of a collective effort to advance youth empowerment and create opportunities for young people in the green economy.
This year's edition of the indaba was held under the theme: "From Youth Innovation to Green Enterprise and Economic Impact". – SAnews.gov.za
