Premier Alan Winde today officially opened the Western Cape Government’s eCentre in the Rheenendal area, in the Southern Cape.
This marks another important step in the provincial government’s mission to ensure that every resident, regardless of where they live, can access digital opportunities.
Located near Knysna, Rheenendal is home to around 7,000 residents. For years, residents had limited access to basic digital services such as internet connectivity, printing, typing facilities, CV preparation and online job applications.
“The establishment of the Western Cape Government Rheenendal eCentre demonstrates how we can deliver meaningful results when communities, municipalities and provincial departments work together towards a common goal,” said Premier Winde as he toured the facility.
This project was driven by the tireless determination of Community Development Worker Ms Devoline Koopman, who advocated for improved digital access and youth development opportunities in Rheenendal. Her efforts, supported by the Western Cape Government and Knysna Municipality, and other partners, helped bring this facility to life.
This is the Western Cape Government’s 83rd brick-and-mortar eCentre, while a mobile eCentre continues to cover thousands of kilometres each month bringing digital services closer to far-flung communities. More mobile eCentres will be hitting the road in the next several months. The permanent Rheenendal eCentre officially commenced operations in March 2026. The facility includes a Business Corner, Public Access Centre and Training Centre.
The Premier remarked that the centre is already creating opportunities within the community, with two young local people appointed as staff members.
“As more economic and employment opportunities move online, digital access is no longer a luxury — it is a necessity. By expanding digital services into rural communities, we are helping residents access jobs, build skills, start businesses and participate more fully in the economy. Not everyone can access a government office, especially in far-flung communities. That is why we are continuously building partnerships and expanding our digital services footprint. This is responsiveness in action. No resident must be left behind. Our eCentres are one way in which we are bringing our digital services closer to communities. At these facilities people can go online to search for jobs, draw up or update CVs, or simply do research for a school project. It is just one service we offer to help residents access opportunities,” he continued.
Through these centres, residents gain access to computers, internet connectivity, printing and scanning services, support with CV writing and online job applications, digital literacy training, entrepreneurship support and access to government services.
