CAPE TOWN – The Western Cape Government has something to celebrate. For three years in a row, all its departments and entities have received clean audits from the Auditor-General.
This means all 14 provincial departments and 11 government entities are managing public money properly and following the rules.
Western Cape Finance Minister Deidré Baartman says these clean audits are more than just paperwork. “They have a direct impact on the Western Cape’s economic performance,” she explained.
When government manages money well, it creates trust. This trust helps businesses grow and creates more jobs.
The province’s good governance is showing real results:
Jobs: Between early 2020 and early 2025, the Western Cape created 89% of all new jobs in South Africa.
Unemployment: The province’s unemployment rate dropped to 21.2% in the second quarter of 2025 – the lowest in the country.
Business Growth: Small businesses are thriving. The number of SMMEs (small, medium and micro enterprises) jumped from 330 000 in late 2023 to 404 000 by mid-2025.
Business Confidence: The Business Confidence Index stands at 45 points, higher than the national average.
Baartman says clean audits prove the Western Cape is a reliable partner. “We are spending money responsibly, on behalf of the Western Cape people,” she said.
This matters when banks, donors, and investors decide where to put their money. They want to know their funds will be managed properly.
“We are custodians of the people’s money,” Baartman added.
Premier Alan Winde praised government workers for their dedication. “This is made possible through the ceaseless dedication of our officials to spending taxpayers’ money responsibly and transparently,” he said.
Even in tough economic times, the government works hard to make sure every rand is spent on improving services for residents.
The Western Cape Government thanked all officials who work to manage public resources efficiently and deliver quality services to the people.
