![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/districtmailhelderberg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/IMG_3231_21099.jpg\")
When asked about the initiative, Winde’s spokesperson Regan Thaw explained that First Thursdays was introduced several years ago when the premier was still a provincial minister.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“The idea was to bring the Western Cape government closer to residents, which is why we take it ‘on the road’ as often as possible,” said Thaw. “That’s why the March 2026 edition of First Thursdays was held in Strand. In the past we have held sessions in Mitchells Plain, Langa and Grassy Park \u2013 to name but a few locations.”\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The initiative offers residents direct engagement opportunities with senior officials. “Residents can raise whatever issues, challenges and ideas they have with the provincial government’s Cabinet and Mayoral Committee members,” Thaw noted. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“This could be anything, from service delivery concerns to suggestions on improving services, dealing with crime or starting a business \u2013 the range of matters is diverse.”\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While Thaw could not provide specific details about attendance numbers, outcomes or the nature of complaints raised at the time of enquiry, he confirmed that “the number of people who take advantage of First Thursdays varies, but [last week’s] was well attended”.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He further explained that all issues raised are addressed to the best of both the provincial government and council’s ability. “Some matters may fall outside the purview of the Western Cape government, but we still do our best to resolve them,”he said. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“The highlights for the premier are the opportunity to meet people, engage with residents and try to find solutions. He deeply values all the issues raised with him and his government.”\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Subcouncil 8 chairperson Chantal Cerfontein expressed pride in the successful First Thursday event \u2013 the first ever held in the Helderberg region.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We were honoured to host the premier, provincial cabinet, and Mayoral Committee members,” said Cerfontein, who plans to host the initiative quarterly.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde brought government services directly to Strand Town Hall on Thursday 5 March through his First Thursday initiative, allowing residents one-on-one consultations with provincial cabinet and City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee 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