Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Local Municipality

Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Local Municipality Geographical Overview

Covering an expansive area of approximately 43,700 square kilometers, the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality is the largest district in the North West Province. It shares its borders with the Republic of Botswana to the north, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality to the northeast, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality to the southeast, Lejweleputswa District Municipality in the Free State Province to the south, Frances Baard District Municipality in the Northern Cape Province to the southwest, and Kgalagadi District Municipality, also in the Northern Cape, to the west. ​

The district encompasses five local municipalities:​

1. Greater Taung Local Municipality​

2. Kagisano-Molopo Local Municipality​

3. Naledi Local Municipality​

4. Mamusa Local Municipality​

5. Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality​

Demographic Profile

According to the 2011 Census, the district had a population of 463,815 individuals residing in 125,270 households. The population density was approximately 10.61 persons per square kilometer. ​

The racial composition was predominantly Black African at 91.4%, followed by Coloured and White populations at 4.0% and 3.9%, respectively. The linguistic landscape is primarily dominated by Setswana speakers, who constitute 83.6% of the population. ​

Economic Landscape

The district’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, with a notable emphasis on livestock farming. It is recognized as South Africa’s largest beef-producing district, often referred to as “the Texas of South Africa.” Hereford cattle are particularly prevalent in the region. Additionally, the cultivation of maize and peanuts plays a significant role in the local agricultural sector. ​

Administrative Structure and Services

The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality operates through various departments to ensure effective governance and service delivery:​

• Office of the Municipal Manager: Oversees the municipality’s administration and implementation of policies.​

• Community Services: Focuses on public services that enhance community well-being.​

• Corporate Services: Manages human resources, legal services, and administrative support.​

• Budget & Treasury: Handles financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management.​

• Engineering & Technical Services: Responsible for infrastructure development and maintenance.​

• Planning & Development: Coordinates spatial planning and development initiatives.​

• Economic Development, Tourism & Agriculture: Promotes economic growth, tourism, and agricultural development.​

• Internal Audit: Ensures compliance with regulations and internal controls.​

Challenges and Developments

In recent years, the municipality has faced challenges, particularly concerning financial management and service delivery. In November 2023, reports emerged of the municipality spending R38 million on a call center, with allegations of inflated costs for equipment, such as a recurring monthly fee of R469 per computer mouse. ​

Efforts are ongoing to address such issues and improve governance within the municipality. Initiatives aimed at urbanization through educational programs have been highlighted as potential avenues for development, emphasizing the importance of education in fostering economic growth and social progress.​

Cultural and Historical Significance

The district holds cultural and historical importance, being the birthplace of Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati in Tlapeng Village near Ganyesa. Her contributions to South Africa’s liberation struggle are commemorated through the naming of the municipality. ​

Additionally, the region’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its communities, traditions, and historical sites, contributing to its unique identity within the North West Province.

Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Local Municipality Contact Details

Postal	PO Box 21, Vryburg, 8600
Physical	34 Church Street, Vryburg, 8601
Tel	053 928 6400
Web	drrsmdm.gov.za

Resident Queries

Accounts	n/a
Electricity	n/a
Refuse & Waste	n/a
Roads	n/a
Service Delivery	053 928 6400 MarupingM@drrsmdm.gov.za
Water	053 928 6400 MarupingM@drrsmdm.gov.za

Fun Things To Do At Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Local Municipality

Conclusion

The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality stands as a region of significant agricultural prowess, cultural heritage, and historical importance. While facing contemporary challenges, the municipality continues to strive towards sustainable development, improved governance, and enhanced service delivery for its residents