Cape town: Today, Premier Alan Winde announced the appointment of Jaco Londt as Western Cape Minister of Education and Wendy Kaizer-Philander as Provincial Minister of Social Development. Premier Winde stated that both ministers bring extensive experience, principled leadership, and a proven commitment to serving the residents of the Western Cape. Their new portfolios will allow them to build on their respective track records and bring fresh energy, insight, and collaborative leadership to two critical areas of government.
According to African Press Organization, Minister Londt transitions from the role of provincial minister of social development, a position he has held since June 2024. During his tenure, he initiated 21 GBV Ambassador Programmes across the province, launched the Cape Care Fund to support social development non-profit organizations, and implemented the Social Work Integrated Management System (SWIMS) app. Minister Londt holds a Humanities Bachelor's Degree from the University of South Africa and a Public Administration Honours Degree from the University of Stellenbosch. Before joining the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, he served as a Member of Parliament in the National Council of Provinces for 10 years.
Minister Londt expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by Premier Winde, acknowledging the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Minister David Maynier. He reflected on his achievements over the past two years at the Department of Social Development (DSD), emphasizing the progress made in supporting vulnerable residents and fostering innovation. Minister Londt extended his thanks to DSD management, staff, and partner organizations for their collaboration and support.
Minister Kaizer-Philander, an experienced public representative, has been a Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament since 2018. Her prior roles include serving as a councillor and member of the mayoral committee in the Drakenstein Local Municipality. At the time of her appointment, she was the Chairperson on Social Development and Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on Child Protection Reform in the Western Cape. She has also held senior parliamentary leadership and committee positions, such as Chief Whip and Chairperson of the TB Ad Hoc Committee and Conduct Committee.
With a deep understanding of the work done by the Department of Social Development, Minister Kaizer-Philander is poised to continue the achievements of Minister Londt. She is currently completing a BAdmin Honours in Public Administration at the University of the Western Cape. Expressing her gratitude, Minister Kaizer-Philander stated her commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and her readiness to serve the people of the Western Cape in her new role.
Premier Winde concluded by expressing his confidence in both ministers' ability to further the Western Cape Government's efforts to create more opportunities, improve lives, and build a province where all residents can thrive.