Residents in Mahikeng and surrounding rural communities now have closer access to consumer protection services following the launch of the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO) satellite office at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus on 14 May 2026.
The office, based at the NWU Law Clinic, becomes the fifth CGSO satellite office nationally and the fourth established at a university campus. The initiative is aimed at helping consumers access assistance with complaints relating to goods and services while strengthening awareness of consumer rights.
Speaking at the launch, CGSO chief executive officer Queen Munyai said the office was established to reach communities that often struggle to access consumer protection services.
“Our complaint statistics indicate that consumers outside of major metropolitan areas are underrepresented; hence, the launch of this office today is crucial,” said Queen. “This initiative aims to enhance consumer law education and extend vital legal services to vulnerable and indigent communities throughout South Africa.”
She said the partnership between the CGSO and the NWU would strengthen community outreach, consumer education and access to legal support services.
Queen added that the organisation handled more than 12 000 complaints during the 2024/25 financial year and facilitated refunds worth R11,9 million for consumers.
Dr Joe Molete, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with the assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus, described the launch as a milestone for both the university and the community.
“This initiative reflects what is possible when institutions come together with a shared commitment to ensuring access to justice, consumer protection and meaningful community engagement,” said Dr Molete.
“We have a responsibility to ensure that knowledge, expertise and partnerships are translated into practical solutions that improve the lives of our communities,” he added.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Kgosi Phenyo Motshegare of the Barolong Boo Ratshidi of Lokaleng and Phola Traditional Councils, Dr Kesolofetse Motshegare said the launch came at the right time for surrounding communities.
“As a community leader, this launch comes at the right time to instil and reinforce our basic human rights, in particular consumer rights,” she said.
She noted that the relationship between the traditional authority and the NWU stretches across several faculties and community projects. “As a tribal authority, we continue to disseminate information and make referrals on various matters, including those of the CGSO.”
Dr Motshegare also welcomed the office as a service that would benefit vulnerable residents in surrounding rural communities.
“It is always about our people, especially the rural poor, who are unable to access justice,” she said.
The launch programme included presentations, community engagements, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the unveiling of the office signage at the NWU Law Clinic.
Dr Joe Molete, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with the assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus, and CGSO CEO Queen Munyai cut the ribbon to officially hand over the office at the Law Clinic.
