Acting on behalf of the City, the Chief Whip of Council, Councillor Desiree Visagie, accepted this contribution today, 10 February 2026, marking it as another significant gesture under the leadership of the Director-General of the Taipei Liaison Office, Ms Lily Chen. This act not only exemplifies commendable generosity but also represents a meaningful step towards addressing a critical societal need – affordable sustenance.

‘The relationship between the City and the Taipei Liaison Office is one that has been carefully nurtured over many years. It is a partnership defined not only by its longevity - now extending beyond a decade - but by its substance comprising of shared values, mutual respect and a clear commitment to uplifting communities through tangible action.

‘Today’s donation is a powerful expression of that commitment. The City Council has received four tonnes (or 136 bags) of rice, together with two tonnes of fresh butternut, contributed by a local Taiwanese donor, Bodhi Park. These supplies will play a critical role in supporting the City’s food relief initiatives and community feeding programmes across Cape Town.

‘The timing of this support is especially significant. Our city, like so many others nationally, but particularly in the Western Cape - is facing immense pressure as fires have displaced families, leaving many residents without homes, possessions or access to basic nutrition. In these moments of crisis, food security becomes an urgent and immediate concern.

‘For our most vulnerable residents, these donations represent not only sustenance, but reassurance that they have not been forgotten. Staple foods such as rice remain essential for many households, offering reliable, affordable nourishment, while fresh produce like butternut contributes to healthier, more balanced meals. Together, these contributions will assist thousands of people who are navigating extraordinarily difficult circumstances.

The donations demonstrate the strength of global solidarity and the meaningful difference partnerships across borders can make. What we acknowledge today goes beyond the value of the food itself. It reflects a shared understanding that social responsibility is collective, and that compassion, when paired with action, has the power to restore dignity and hope.

‘On behalf of the City, its leadership, its Speaker, Alderman Felicity Purchase, and especially its most vulnerable residents, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the Taipei Liaison Office, to Bodhi Park, and to everyone involved in making this contribution possible. Your continued support strengthens our ability to respond to hardship and to care for those most in need,’ said Councillor Visagie