Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has urged the province to ‘step up’ in response to both local and global challenges, emphasizing the importance of standing for democratic principles in an increasingly volatile world. Delivering his 2025 State of the Province Address (SOPA) on 26 February, Winde highlighted the economic pressures facing the province, the country, and the international community.
Navigating Uncertain Times
Repeatedly emphasizing that “we are in uncertain times,” Winde referenced the national Budget deadlock, triggered by the highly contested proposal to raise VAT from 15% to 17%. “As I make this speech, we have no clarity on our Budget… It’s a time that demands leadership and action,” he stated.
Turning his attention to the broader geopolitical landscape, Winde warned of increasing economic instability: “International markets are in distress, and elections worldwide are causing massive policy shifts. Aid is being cut, and free trade is being replaced by trade barriers and tariffs.” He also noted the potential opportunities for South Africa, particularly the upcoming G20 and B20 business meetings being hosted in the country.
A Province Standing for Democracy
Winde took a firm stance against global trends that threaten democracy, declaring, “We must stand against attempts to reshape the world in a paradigm where might is right. It seems that the very foundations of democracy are at risk, and we must make sure that we stand for what is right.”
The premier’s remarks reflected growing concerns about global political shifts, including those seen under Donald Trump’s presidency in the United States, as well as protectionist economic policies emerging in multiple countries.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth in the Western Cape
Despite global and national uncertainties, Winde remained optimistic about the Western Cape’s ability to drive economic growth and development. He highlighted key provincial projects in infrastructure and energy security aimed at fostering investment and job creation.
One major concern remains the efficiency of the Port of Cape Town, which ranked last (405th) in a global port efficiency ranking in 2024. “A critical part of the Presidency’s Operation Vulindlela must be to dramatically improve the performance of this port while also developing other ports like Saldanha and Mossel Bay,” Winde emphasized. He confirmed that the province is working with Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and private-sector stakeholders to resolve these operational inefficiencies.
The Western Cape’s Economic Standing
Winde proudly pointed out that the Western Cape has the lowest unemployment rate in South Africa at 19.6%, reinforcing the province’s role as an economic leader. “Despite the challenges, we continue to make progress in ensuring opportunities for our residents,” he said.
Reflecting on a Challenging First Term
As Winde nears the end of his second and final term as premier, he reflected on the tumultuous period from 2019 to 2024. “It was a term of difficulties, a term of crisis,” he said, recalling the Covid-19 pandemic, droughts, financial constraints, and natural disasters.
He acknowledged that while the Government of National Unity (GNU) has begun to address some of South Africa’s systemic issues, the country still faces significant challenges in the coming years.
Saluting Firefighters and Emergency Services
In an emotional moment, Winde praised the province’s emergency responders, particularly firefighters who battled massive blazes in February 2024. “Their courage and dedication remind us all of the importance of service and commitment in times of crisis,” he said.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Wrapping up his speech, Winde reiterated the need for leadership, resilience, and unity in the face of economic and political uncertainty. “We must continue to fight for a future built on strong democratic values and economic prosperity. This is our time to stand up and do what is right.”
