Ministry of Finance: Overview

Deidré Baartman was appointed as the Finance Minister of the Western Cape in 2024, bringing her wealth of experience and a proven track record in finance legislation and economic policy. At just 33 years old, she is the youngest Minister ever appointed to the Western Cape Cabinet.

Minister Baartman is dedicated to fostering economic growth, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and enhancing the province's financial stability.

Baartman obtained her LLB and LLM (Public Procurement Law) from the University of Stellenbosch and was admitted as an advocate of the Western Cape High Court in 2017. Seeking to ensure justice for communities, she transitioned to the public sector and politics.

She has served as a member of the Western Cape provincial parliament since 2019 and was both the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Finance, Economic Opportunities and Tourism, and the Budget Committee. She further served as Deputy Chief Whip from 2021. Her work as Chairperson of the Budget Committee has given her keen insight and knowledge of the fiscal process. She is committed to fiscal responsibility and ensuring the budgeting process speaks to service delivery and the needs of residents, particularly the vulnerable and poor.

As Finance Minister, she is committed to ensuring the province receives its fair share equitable resource allocation; transparent governance; value-for-money procurement systems and innovative financial strategies that support the Western Cape's economic resilience and growth. She is an advocate for fiscal policies that stimulate job creation, investment, and inclusive economic development.

Minister Baartman is known for her consultative approach, working closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and community organisations. Her decisive leadership and dedication to excellence have earned her a reputation as a transformative partner in the financial landscape. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Baartman is actively involved in youth development projects and is a mentor to emerging leaders. Her passion for economic empowerment and sustainable development continues to inspire positive change across the Western Cape.