9 March 2006
The Premier of North West Edna Molewa has congratulated First National Bank
(FNB) for caring about North West rural communities and emerging farmers.
"This important gesture by FNB signals a ready willingness to work with
government in improving the lives of all people, particularly through efforts
in reconstruction, growth and development, growing the economy and assisting
the Small and Micro Enterprises," said Molewa.
Premier Molewa was addressing FNB Senior Provincial Executive Management
Team in Mafikeng last night (Wednesday, 8 March 2006). The meeting also
introduced Mr David Montsho as the new FNB Provincial Manager in North
West.
According to David Montsho, FNB North West is geared to intensify its
partnership with the province through the Provincial Growth and Development
Strategy. "FNB will ensure and accelerate its support for emerging farmers
making it possible to access finances they dire need for their farming
projects."
FNB has so far assisted 145 emerging farmers with loans to the value of R56
000 each and have installed more than 140 mini ATMs for easy access by rural
communities in the province.
"Our plan is to make sure that elderly people and all those have access to
social grants in rural areas are able to withdraw money at mini ATMs within a
radius of 20km. Our people cannot be allowed to walk long distances to collect
their monies," said Mr Montsho.
Premier Molewa says South Africa is steadily witnessing unprecedented levels
of economic growth, a buoyant economy that has invited the confidence of both
local and foreign investors.
"These investors must and do understand our historical obligation of
building a prosperous, equal and democratic society with enough opportunities
for all its citizens."
âWe must together with partners like FNB be enjoined as representatives of
the public and private sectors to share the responsibility of growing North
West Province to address the challenges of poverty, unemployment and
underdevelopment.
"We are certain that whatever co-operation and contribution by FNB North
West that this meeting signals will find a proper place, for instance, among
the province's key Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa
(Asgisa) interventions," said Molewa.
Enquiries: Cornelius Tanana Monama
Spokesperson - North West Provincial Government
Tel: (018) 387 3456
Cell: 082 578 4063
Russel Mamabolo
Media Relations Director - Office of the Premier
Tel: (018) 387 3103
Cell: 082 900 6610
Issued by: Office of the Premier, North West Provincial Government
9 March 2006
