In a move to fortify the Western Cape’s agricultural backbone against a “triple threat” of regional and global risks, Premier Alan Winde chaired an extended Premier’s Coordinating Forum (PCF) on Tuesday, 28 April 2026. These regular gatherings ensure that the Western Cape Government and its municipal partners maintain a synchronized defense against the evolving challenges facing the province.
The meeting highlighted the work of the multi-hazard Joint Operations Centre (JOC), led by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), focusing on fuel supply security, the eradication of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), and the long-term sustainability of water resources.
Fuel Security: Maintaining the Lifeblood of Farming
Amid ongoing volatility in the Middle East, the PCF welcomed a strong state of readiness to respond to potential fuel supply disruptions. While there have currently been no disruptions affecting the Western Cape, the province’s contingency plan remains firmly in place.
The strategy focuses on three core areas: clear coordination of roles across stakeholders, advanced preparedness planning, and ensuring the continuity of essential services, including food supply and transport.
“While there have not been any disruptions to the Western Cape’s fuel supplies, we cannot let our guard down,” stressed Premier Winde. He noted that while provinces do not have a direct mandate over fuel supply, the provincial government is proactively implementing risk mitigation measures to protect the economy.
Further supporting the sector, the forum welcomed the extension of the temporary reduction in the general fuel levy until June 2026. This measure is seen as a critical buffer for residents and agricultural producers during a period of intense global pressure.
FMD: A 39-Day Milestone Without New Cases
The province’s livestock industry received a boost with news that no new FMD cases have been recorded in the Western Cape for the past 39 days. This stability indicates that the province’s 21-point response plan is effectively containing the outbreak that has gripped the country.
Vaccination remains the cornerstone of this success. To date, 164,425 vaccine doses have been administered at 756 sites across the province. To further strengthen immunity and eliminate remaining gaps, an additional 150,000 doses are being deployed in the coming days. The Premier reiterated his call to all livestock owners to remain vigilant and play their part in the final eradication of the disease.
Water Security: Infrastructure and Resilience
Reviewing the province’s water outlook, the PCF noted that recent rainfall has improved average dam storage to 44.27%—a modest increase of approximately 2%. Despite this slight recovery, the government continues to urge residents and farmers to use water responsibly.
The province is not relying on rain alone; infrastructure interventions are advancing steadily. In partnership with the Department of Water and Sanitation, sediment removal projects at two key weirs are currently underway. These projects are vital for increasing water storage capacity and ensuring the province is better prepared for future droughts.
“Our coordinated approach ensures that we are not only responding to current challenges but also building resilience for the future,” Premier Winde concluded. By aligning provincial, municipal, and national efforts, the Western Cape aims to protect its essential services and ensure the continued growth of the agricultural sector.