By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has reshuffled his provincial Cabinet, moving Jaco Londt from social development to education, and appointed Wendy Kaizer-Philander as MEC for Social Development.
The reshuffle comes after changes to the DA’s representation in the Government of National Unity.
DA removed its federal chairperson of finance, Dr Mark Burke from parliamentary finance committees amid the SA Reserve Bank (SARB) ongoing investigation in Kastelo.
MP Kingsley Wakelin will now take over the responsibility.
Winde said, “Both MEC’s Londt and Kaizer-Philander 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, who previously held the Social Development portfolio since June 2024, is expected to leverage his extensive experience gained in that role to improve educational outcomes.
During his tenure in Social Development, Londt successfully initiated 21 Gender-Based Violence Ambassador Programmes across the province and launched the Cape Care Fund to bolster the support for social development non-profits.
In his new role, Londt aims to build upon the foundation laid by outgoing MEC David Maynier, promising to continue promoting innovation and support for vulnerable residents throughout the province.
“The tremendous responsibility being entrusted to me by Premier Winde is not taken lightly. I am looking forward to building on the solid foundation that was laid by my predecessor,” remarked Londt, who holds a Humanities Bachelor’s Degree from the University of South Africa and a Public Administration Honours Degree from the University of Stellenbosch.
“The last two years at DSD have been a great privilege and pleasure. I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve.”
On the other hand, Wendy Kaizer-Philander, an accomplished public representative who has been a Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament since 2018, steps into her new role as MEC of Social Development with a wealth of experience.
Before her appointment, she served as the Chairperson of Social Development and was instrumental in the Ad Hoc Committee on Child Protection Reform.
Kaizer-Philander is currently 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, “Kaizer-Philander said.
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.