Minister Winde Delivers "Better Together" Budget Speech

Today, 1 March 2012, Western Cape Minister of Finance, Alan Winde, delivered the 2012/2013 Budget for the Western Cape Government. Minister Winde outlined the government's plan to grow the economy, create jobs and provide a better life for all citizens through improved service delivery.

The big ticket items: The Western Cape Government has found an extra R1.097 billion to put into projects that grow the economy and create jobs (projects are listed in full in the speech). The majority of these projects are being undertaken in partnership with other spheres of government and the private sector because this makes the economy better together.

The Western Cape Government will also continue to improve the services delivered to the people in the province, including public school learners and those who visit public healthcare facilities. Most of the money spent in these sectors goes toward improving the lives of the poor. Education and health received two-thirds of the budget. The Western Cape Government calls on all citizens to partner with them in improving society. For example, parents must take an active interest in assisting school learners to improve their results. All citizens must also look after their health and ensure that they not take risks that will expose them to contracting diseases that are entirely preventable.

View the Budget Speech for 2012.