On 10 March 2025, Premier Alan Winde signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Western Cape Government and France’s Regional Council of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, extending a partnership that has flourished since 2002. This renewed agreement promises significant opportunities for agriculture and other sectors, focusing on economic growth, innovation, and climate resilience.
Agriculture at the Core
From the outset, agriculture has been central to the relationship between the Western Cape and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. Both regions share strong agricultural economies, with a focus on wine, fruit, dairy, and livestock production. The renewed MoU reinforces cooperation in agricultural innovation, sustainable farming, and export development, offering Western Cape farmers access to French expertise in climate-smart agriculture and value-added production.
Premier Winde highlighted the importance of such partnerships in uncertain global times, saying, “The Western Cape remains committed to deepening relations with regions that share our priorities. This MoU provides stability and focuses on growing our economy to create jobs.”
Focus on Climate Resilience
A key feature of the MoU is addressing climate change, with a focus on water resilience — a critical concern for Western Cape farmers facing prolonged droughts and shifting weather patterns.
Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, emphasised this, saying, “Our relationship has grown beyond agriculture to include critical issues like climate change and water resilience. We aim to implement tangible projects to better manage these challenges.”
Through shared projects and knowledge exchange, farmers stand to benefit from advanced approaches in sustainable water use, renewable energy in farming, and climate adaptation strategies.
A Step Forward for Western Cape Farmers
For the Western Cape’s agricultural sector, this agreement offers practical benefits: learning from an experienced European region, exploring new export markets, and adopting climate-resilient practices to sustain farms for future generations.
Premier Winde concluded, “We value this partnership as part of our broader relationship with France – a nation that shares our vision for strong international cooperation focused on economic growth and the well-being of our people.”
Beyond Agriculture: Economic and Innovation Opportunities
While agriculture remains a priority, the MoU also opens doors in economic development, innovation, public health, and climate action. Vice-President of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Patrick Molinoz, noted, “These partnerships are key to creating employment and stimulating economic growth in both regions.”
The agreement encourages business collaboration, skills development, and technology sharing, aiming to grow sectors that support agricultural value chains and broaden economic opportunities for both regions.