Premier delivers optimistic and balanced view of the Western Cape’s current challenges

Premier Alan Winde delivered an optimistic and balanced view of the Western Cape’s current challenges, which include persistent high levels of crime and climate change impacts.

In our view the Premier’s opening address correctly emphasised the need for greater collaboration between the provinces and national government in delivering public services. 

In particular we welcome the call for greater private sector involvement in key areas of the economy, such as energy and logistics. The Premier also emphasised the need for resolution of ongoing inter-government disputes, notably around budget allocations. As the third most populous province, the Western Cape currently receives only the fifth-largest share of national government’s provincial budget allocation. National government has also been slow to fulfil its financial obligations in terms of disaster management support, with the province still owed R1,3-billion related to last year’s floods.

An equitable share of government resources is particularly important in light of the influx of around 150 000 people to the Western Cape each year – currently the fastest growing of the country’s provinces.

Rapid economic growth and job creation remains the only long-term sustainable solution to confronting the twin epidemics of poverty and inequality. We also welcome the Premier’s commitment to try and reduce the province’s unemployment rate to below 20%

The Chamber looks forward to working with its government partners to help accelerate delivery in the best interests of all citizens.

Jacques Moolman
President of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry