Winde says WC outpacing rest of country in economic growth, job creation

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said the province is outpacing the rest of the country in economic growth and job creation, with 93,000 new jobs created in the final quarter of the last financial year.

The premier delivered his State of the Province Address (SOPA) in George on Wednesday night, highlighting jobs, investments, exports, tourism and infrastructure as major growth points for the province.

Winde said unemployment is down to 18% in the province - the lowest in the country.

He said major investments in infrastructure, tourism, agriculture and energy shows the province is becoming a hub for innovation.

Winde announced progress on large housing projects, billions in new private-sector investments and plans to secure 310 million cubic metres of additional water by 2035.

However, Winde warned that crime - especially gang violence - remains a crisis.

"SAPS [South African Police Service] is underfunded. SAPS does not have the resources that they need. We need to make sure SAPS is resourced."

Winde also emphasised youth development, education improvements, and major upgrades to hospitals and clinics across the province.