WCG unveils game-changing Events Portal to cement province as Africa’s premier events destination

The Western Cape Government (WCG) has officially launched its Events Portal, a comprehensive digital platform designed to showcase and streamline events taking place across the province. Although the website has already been live and receiving event applications from organisers for several weeks, the official launch took place on 31 October 2025, with the Western Cape Sports Federation in attendance to mark the occasion.

Developed by the Department of the Premier’s Centre for e-Innovation (CeI) Unit, in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), the Events Portal represents a major step toward in improving access to event information and promoting the province’s diverse sporting, cultural, and community activities – all of which are vital for economic growth and job creation.

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie described the innovation as a key milestone in positioning the province as the “Events Capital of Africa”.

“The City of Cape Town already leads the continent in hosting world-class events,” said Minister Mackenzie. “But our province is filled with small towns and iconic gems that should be explored. This platform will shine a light on those communities, drawing visitors and opportunities to every corner of the Western Cape.”

Minister Mackenzie emphasised that events are powerful drivers of economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion.

“Events bring people together and build a sense of unity while driving economic activity in local communities. The Events Portal makes it easier than ever for organisers to connect with audiences, and for the public to discover what the Western Cape has to offer,” he added.

Since 2012, sport and recreation have contributed R8.8 billion, accounting for 2.2% of the province’s annual GDP.

Following the successful rollout for sporting event applications, the cultural and heritage sectors will soon be integrated, creating a single digital gateway for all events across the province.

For more information or to submit an event, visit the Western Cape Events Portal at https://www.westerncape.gov.za/cas/service/events-support

Media Enquiries:
Eslynn Apollis | Acting Media Liaison Officer
Provincial Minister Ricardo Mackenzie 
Department of Cultural Affairs & Sport 
Cell: 072 615 3665