By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi announced a major provincial cabinet reshuffle in Mahikeng on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
The reshuffle marks the first major executive restructuring since the seventh administration took office in 2024—reassigned key Member of the Executive Council (MEC) portfolios to drive service delivery.
Mokgosi announced the changes during the quarterly Provincial Executive Council (EXCO) media briefing on Wednesday, describing the reshuffle as part of the provincial government’s ongoing evaluation of its performance and its alignment with the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy.
Wessels Morweng has been moved from Community Safety and Transport Management to the Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation portfolio. Virginia Tlhapi will take over as MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management.
Education MEC Viola Motsumi has been removed and replaced by Desbo Mohono, who was the Speaker of the provincial legislature.
The changes come as the provincial government reported spending R1.210 billion on infrastructure during the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, representing 21.31% of its infrastructure budget.
Mokgosi said the province had spent R14.841 billion, or 25.35% of its overall 2026/27 budget, by the end of June, exceeding the 25% first-quarter spending threshold by 0.35 percentage points.
He said the expenditure demonstrated sound financial management and the provincial government’s continued prioritisation of service delivery.
Mokgosi also highlighted revenue generated by various sectors and their contribution to employment in the province.
He said the liquor industry supported about 21,000 jobs and generated R14 million through liquor licence renewals, while collaboration with Sector Education and Training Authorities had created 6,000 jobs for young people.
The gambling sector sustained 1,600 direct jobs, while gaming activity generated R2.38 billion, contributing R164.5 million directly to the provincial fiscus.
Mokgosi said the Cabinet changes were intended to strengthen the provincial administration and ensure that its work remained aligned with the province’s development priorities.
Meanwhile the office of Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul revealed no decision has been taken regarding Roads and Public Works MEC, Fufe Makatong.