Western Cape Premier Alan Winde delivered the 2025 State of the Province Address on Wednesday evening, calling on the province to “step up” in the face of a turbulent global landscape.
Delivered from Beaufort West, the Premier focused on the province’s resilience and unwavering commitment to growth, emphasizing the pivotal role the Western Cape plays in South Africa’s economic recovery.
A Call to Action
Premier Winde reflected on the province’s ability to overcome significant challenges in recent years, including a funding shortfall, a water crisis, and the aftermath of the global pandemic.
He acknowledged the hardships but highlighted the progress made, such as the partnership with municipalities and private sectors to contribute 5,700 MW of renewable energy by 2035.
Additionally, efforts to boost law enforcement have made communities safer, and schools were built in under 100 days, showcasing the province’s innovative solutions in the face of adversity.
“Leadership is about how we act, and how we respond to crises,” Winde stated, urging everyone to take personal responsibility to uplift their communities.
He emphasized that despite difficult times, the Western Cape remains a province defined by hope and opportunity, particularly as it prepares to host key global events like the Regional Leaders Summit and the inaugural Investment Summit.
Economic Progress and Job Creation
One of the core themes of the speech was economic growth and job creation. Winde proudly highlighted the province’s impressive employment metrics. In the second half of 2024, the Western Cape boasted the country’s lowest unemployment rate at 19.6%, surpassing national averages in key employment indicators.
The region also added 62,000 new jobs, contributing significantly to South Africa’s national job creation.
However, the Premier noted that more work is needed, especially in combating the ongoing issue of unemployment. He pointed out that national economic growth has been sluggish, with GDP per capita lower than in 2012, but expressed hope that stronger economic growth would lead to greater job opportunities for the people of the Western Cape.
Focus on Infrastructure and Public Services
Winde emphasised the importance of infrastructure investment as a foundation for sustained economic development.
The Western Cape government has spent nearly R99 billion on physical infrastructure over the last decade, with projects such as the N7 Potsdam–Melkbos interchange and water systems in Worcester and George already underway. The Premier highlighted how each rand invested in infrastructure creates significant economic returns, catalyzing private investment and job creation.
Additionally, the Western Cape is witnessing improvements in public transport, with the Go George bus service expanding its routes and capacity, and ongoing efforts to restore the rail system as a backbone for public transport.
Addressing Health and Social Needs
The Premier also focused on improving the health and well-being of the province’s residents.
In response to food insecurity and the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, the government has launched several initiatives, including the Cape Care Fund, which supports NGOs providing essential services. A Cabinet-level committee has been established to tackle food insecurity, aiming to improve nutrition and support families facing economic hardship.
On healthcare infrastructure, Winde announced investments totalling R279 million in upgrading and expanding psychiatric units at hospitals, with ongoing projects at facilities such as the Eerste River Hospital and Tygerberg Hospital.
Safer Communities Through Collaboration
The Premier took the opportunity to address safety, a key concern for residents and investors alike. Last year, the Western Cape government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the City of Cape Town and the national government to enhance collaboration in policing.
This partnership aims to strengthen law enforcement efforts, focusing on reducing crime, with notable successes in weapon and drug seizures.
Winde highlighted the work of the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP), which made over 12,000 arrests in 2024, and the deployment of Rural Safety and K-9 Units in more rural areas.
Building a Sustainable Future
The address concluded with a focus on sustainability and preparing for future challenges. Premier Winde spoke about the province’s commitment to addressing climate change, showcasing its investment in disaster management and innovative solutions.
As the co-chair of the Under2 Coalition for Africa, Winde is advocating for regional collaboration to mitigate the impacts of the climate crisis while ensuring that the province’s development remains future-proof.
