Premier Alan Winde looking forward to SOPA in Genadendal

I am looking forward to delivering my third State of the Province Address in the town of Genadenal in the Overberg region this year.

The date and the venue of this year’s SOPA was announced by the Speaker of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, Masizole Mnqasela, today.

As public servants, our duty is to the people of this province and hosting an event as important as the State of the Province Address outside of the walls of the Provincial Legislature ensures that we bring our democratic processes closer to the people.”

 Last year, I felt privileged to give my SOPA speech at the Rocklands Civic Centre in Mitchells Plain. Rocklands Civic is a historic site which holds an important place in the history of our province and our nation. This year, I look forward to delivering my first SOPA outside of the City of Cape Town, in the Overberg region.

The lockdown regulations in place over past year have had a devastating impact on many businesses around the province- particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The choice to host the SOPA in a small town like Genadendal will also provide a boost to local businesses.

When I became Premier I said I wanted the people of this province, and the members of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament to hold me to account. I therefore also welcome the commitment that the speech and subsequent debate will be preceded by oversight visits in the region. As a government, we have worked hard throughout this very difficult year, to continue to provide key services to the people of this province. 

The Speaker of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament has committed to ensuring that all Covid-19 protocols are adhered to throughout the event to ensure the safety of the community, and all those participating.

I look forward to delivering my SOPA speech on 17 February and detailing the work that we have done, and the plans that the Western Cape Government has put in place to ensure that we are able to grow our economy and save jobs, create a safer Western Cape, and ensure that residents are able to live dignified lives of which they are proud.