Tertuis Simmers also serves as the Western Cape Provincial Minister of Infrastructure, he has been active in politics for more than 20 years.
He was appointed to this new portfolio (Infrastructure) on 01 May 2022 as a concerted effort to create positive disruption to the economy by fostering an infrastructure-led economic growth. The concept of the Ministry of Infrastructure is based on the premise of merging two departments, Human Settlements and key components of Transport and Public Works to create a mega infrastructure delivery department.
Prior to this appointment, Tertuis served as the Provincial Minister of Human Settlements from May 2019 until April 2022. During his tenure in this portfolio, he championed a number of notable programmes including the delivery of more than 35790 housing opportunities across the province. In addition, Minister Simmers led the charge in elevating the provision of housing opportunities for the affordable housing market, best known as the gap market.
Before joining the Provincial Cabinet, Minister Simmers diligently served as a Member of the Provincial Legislature for more than 20 months. During his tenure as Member of the Legislature, he served as the Chairperson of Environmental Affairs as well as Chairperson of Agriculture, Economic Opportunities and Tourism. Additionally, he has also served as an ordinary member to the Standing Committees of Human Settlements, Local Government, Conduct Committee and Budget & Finance.
Between 2011-2017 and prior to becoming a Member of the Provincial Legislature, he served as a Mayoral Committee Member (MAYCO), for Corporate Services, Roads and Asset Management, as well as Speaker of the Garden Route District Municipality.
In his leisure time, he enjoys reading and is an avid chess player.