Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has announced the appointment of Jaco Londt as provincial Minister of Education and Wendy Kaizer-Philander as provincial Minister of Social Development.

Winde said 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.”

Londt moves from Social Development to Education

Londt moves to Education from Social Development, where he has served as provincial minister since June 2024.

During his tenure, the Department of Social Development (DSD) established 21 gender-based violence (GBV) ambassador programmes across the province, launched the Cape Care Fund to support non-profit organisations, and implemented the Social Work Integrated Management System (SWIMS) app.

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 for 10 years as a member of parliament in the National Council of Provinces.

He said the responsibility entrusted to him by Winde was not taken lightly. “I am looking forward to building on the solid foundation that was laid by my predecessor, Minister David Maynier. The last two years at DSD have been a great privilege and pleasure. I am proud of what we’ve been able to achieve in strengthening support for vulnerable residents across the province and leading the way with innovation. Thank you to the DSD management, staff, and our incredible partner organisations.”

Kaizer-Philander brings committee experience to new role

Kaizer-Philander has served as a member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament since 2018. Before that, she was a councillor and member of the mayoral committee in the Drakenstein Local Municipality.

At the time of her appointment, she served as chairperson of the Standing Committee on Social Development and chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on Child Protection Reform. She has also held senior parliamentary leadership positions, including chief whip and chairperson of the TB Ad Hoc Committee and Conduct Committee.

She is completing a BAdmin Honours in Public Administration at the University of the Western Cape.

“This is a huge honour, and I would like to thank the Premier for trusting me with this enormous responsibility,” she said. “I look forward to continuing the excellent work of Minister Londt, who has already achieved significant milestones in the department. I am deeply passionate about supporting vulnerable communities, particularly children, families, women, older persons and communities facing social and economic challenges. I am ready to serve the people of the Western Cape in this critical position.”

Winde said he had full faith in both ministers to advance the Western Cape Government’s work to create more opportunity, improve lives and build a province in which all residents can thrive.

ALSO READ: UWC study reveals why mothers delay Child Support Grant applications