The Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) proudly welcomed a delegation from Germany, through its partnership with KIEZ, for an immersive cultural exchange focused on community outreach, local heritage, and social services. This partnership enables 12 of our youth to travel to Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. In July, our youth visited Germany, and from 29 September to 8 October, the German youth visited us in return.
Their journey through the Cape Winelands began with a visit to the CWDM office in Paarl, where Executive Mayor Ald. (Dr) Elna von Schlicht and Cllr Minnie Petersen, Portfolio holder for Rural and Social Development, warmly welcomed them to the district.
Key highlights of the visit included a stop at Sunfield Home in Wellington, a centre for individuals with intellectual disabilities, where the delegation engaged with residents and learned about the challenges they face and the support systems in place. The group also visited the Youth with a Mission (YWAM) program, the Innovation for the Blind organisation, and the National Institute for the Deaf (NID), gaining insights into the services available for the region’s deaf community.
The delegation was introduced to the local education system with visits to Kylemore High School, Stellenzicht High School, and Desmond Tutu High School. They also participated in a cultural program hosted by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), which featured indigenous games, providing a unique window into local history and traditions.
Their exploration of local history and culture continued with a visit to the Pniel Slavery Museum, a historical walk in Montagu, and a traditional South African potjiekos meal. A cultural township tour of Kayamandi and lunch at Amazink.
The delegation experienced the natural beauty of the region with visits to the Afrikaans Taal Monument, the Karoo Botanical Gardens, the Ceres zipline, and Vredenheim, where they observed the majestic white lions.
A family day at Skurweberg fostered meaningful connections between the German youth and a local community.
This cultural exchange between CWDM and the KIEZ delegation underscores the importance of fostering international relations, sharing knowledge, and supporting local communities. CWDM is proud to have hosted this valuable exchange and looks forward to future opportunities for collaboration.
