By Matshidiso Selebeleng

Employees of Golden Leopard Resorts (SOC) Ltd (GLR) and Madikwe have finally received relief after pension fund contributions deducted from their salaries for more than three years were paid over to the relevant administrators.

The settlement follows intervention by the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), together with the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB).

According to a departmental statement, pension contributions were deducted from employees’ salaries but were not transferred to pension fund administrators, leaving workers without retirement security.

The department said previous funding allocations intended to address the arrears were never implemented, resulting in prolonged delays.

To resolve the matter, DEDECT allocated a total of R42.5 million, broken down as follows:

R12.5 million for outstanding pension fund contributions

R26 million to settle SARS obligations, including VAT and payroll taxes

R4 million for overdue salary increases covering a 19-month period from April 2024 to October 2025

“All payments have now been made in full, bringing pension contributions up to date for all affected employees,” the department said.

The settlement benefits more than 300 employees at GLR and Madikwe.

MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism in the North West Province, Bitsa Lenkopane, welcomed the development, saying it reflects the provincial government’s commitment to accountability and financial stability.

“The resolution of this matter demonstrates that the 7th Administration continues to place the interests of the people at the centre of its work, while addressing historical challenges and restoring confidence in public entities,” said Lenkopane