Extended Premier’s Coordinating Forum strengthens readiness to safeguard the Western Cape against multiple risks

On Tuesday, 28 April 2026, Premier Alan Winde chaired an extended Premier’s Coordinating Forum (PCF) meeting. These gatherings are held on a regular basis to ensure that the Western Cape Government and its partners, among them municipalities, maintain a coordinated approach in addressing multiple challenges facing the province. 

These include:

• Fuel supply
• Foot-and-Mouth Disease
• Water security

These extended PCF gatherings are closely aligned with the work of the multi-hazard Joint Operations Centre, led by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC).

Preparedness for fuel supply risks

The PCF welcomed the strong state of readiness to respond to any potential disruptions to fuel supply linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. While there have been no disruptions affecting the Western Cape, contingency planning remains firmly in place.

The province’s plan is centred around:

• Coordination: to guide clear roles and responsibilities across the provincial government and its stakeholders.
• Preparedness: to advance planning and readiness for potential disruptions.
• Continuity of essential services: healthcare, emergency services, food supply and transport.

“While there have not been any disruptions to the Western Cape’s fuel supplies, we cannot let our guard down. Through the good work of our PDMC, I am confident we have the best plan in place should this situation change. Provinces have no mandate over fuel supply matters. But this does not preclude us as provincial government from implementing risk mitigation measures,” stressed Premier Winde.

The extension of the temporary reduction in the general fuel levy until June 2026 has also been welcomed as a supportive measure for residents and the economy during ongoing global pressures.

Ongoing Encouraging progress in Foot-and-Mouth Disease response

The Western Cape continues to make steady progress in controlling Foot-and-Mouth Disease. No new cases have been recorded in the province in the past 39 days, indicating that the outbreak has stabilised.

The province’s 21-point response plan has been steadily implemented from outset of the national outbreak in the province and continues to show encouraging progress.

Vaccination remains critical to the province’s disease control strategy.

A total of 164,425 vaccine doses has so far been administered at 756 sites across the province. 

To strengthen immunity, an additional 150,000 doses of vaccine will be deployed to the province in the coming days.

The Premier reiterated his call to all livestock owners and other stakeholders to continue playing their part in eradicating FMD.

Strengthening water security

The PCF also reviewed progress on water security. Recent rainfall has improved dam levels, with average storage now at 44.27%, an increase of around 2%.

At the same time, residents are encouraged to continue using water responsibly.

Infrastructure interventions are also advancing well. In partnership with the Department of Water and Sanitation, sediment removal projects at two key weirs in the province are increasing water storage capacity and improving long-term resilience.

Premier Winde concluded, “Our coordinated approach ensures that we are not only responding to current challenges but also building resilience for the future. We will continue working closely with all partners to protect our residents, our economy, and our essential services.

The Western Cape Government will continue to monitor developments closely and keep residents informed, while maintaining a strong focus on preparedness.