The National Pulse

NSFAS running into a structural funding gap of about R15 billion, driven by rising demand for student funding while government allocations have not increased at the same pace. Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has warned that government may have to reconsider how “free higher education” is funded if the gap continues growing. NSFAS approved funding for more than 660,000 students...

The alleged “beds-for-cash” system and claims of sexual coercion at Tshwane’s Kgosi Mampuru II prison have raised serious concerns about prison governance, inmate safety and human rights. Former inmates allege they were forced to pay for beds, while overcrowding and poor conditions remain major challenges. The Department of Correctional Services says the allegations are serious a...

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has taken an early lead in the country’s presidential election, putting him on course for a possible first-round victory. With results from 135 of 226 constituencies counted, Hichilema had secured 1,544,140 votes (58.87%), ahead of his closest challenger, Brian Mundubile, who had 1,030,662 votes. A candidate needs more than 50% of valid votes to avoid a r...

Small businesses can experience serious cash-flow problems even when they appear to be growing. Increased sales do not always translate into money in the bank, particularly when customers delay payments, stock absorbs working capital, or the business takes on new expenses before receiving revenue. A recent Xero South Africa report highlighted the scale of the problem, finding that 91% of South Afr...

Thembisile Hani Local Municipality in Mpumalanga has completed a R5.27-million road construction project in Mthombomuhle, Ward 26, using its own internal capacity rather than appointing an external contractor. According to the municipality, the project commenced in March 2026 and was completed in August. The reported project value comprises R2 million from the Municipal Infrastructure Gr...

Peet Viljoen has been denied bail and will remain in custody after appearing in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Monday, 17 August. The court deemed him a flight risk, which was a key factor in refusing bail. His case involves more than 400 charges linked to an alleged multimillion-rand property fraud scheme. GUEST: Mike Bolhuis, Specialist Investigator

Following vote day, which was on 13 August, Zambia’s Electoral Commission has suspended the counting of votes and announcement of election results nationwide following reports of violence targeting election officials in some districts.  GUEST: Dr Tendai Mbanje – Governance and Elections Expert at the University of Pretoria

Gaming has grown into a powerful social and entertainment space, with communities that already exist both online and in the real world. We look at how brands can engage these audiences authentically by creating experiences that add value, rather than simply placing their logos on something popular. GUEST: Christie Stanbridge - Hyprop’s Brand and Campaigns Marketing Manager.

We are in a significant transition where leadership is concerned, both in the public and private sector. Maybe even in the political space. For years, thought leaders have emphasized the need for change in leadership approaches. Investing in the development and mentorship of future leaders is not just a matter of organizational sustainability, it is a fundamental imperative for the progress and pr...

Dr Criselda Kananda is a doctor of philosophy in social work honoris causa from University of KZN. She is a mom, renowned wellness advocate, media personality, and inspirational leader with a diverse background as a radio and television presenter, author, businesswoman, facilitator, and professional counselor. Her career is marked by impactful contributions in health education, community developme...

The Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa, TAPSOSA, is accusing state-owned entities including Eskom and Transnet of unfairly targeting and blacklisting 26 black-owned security companies. The organisation says the companies were subjected to restrictions without adequate opportunity to respond, threatening businesses, jobs and livelihoods, and is calling for the National Treasury...

The Constitutional Court delivered a judgment in the long-standing legal turf war between environmental groups and the government over the exploration rights granted to oil company Shell. The case, dating back to 2014, pertains to Shell's rights to conduct seismic surveys on the Wild Coast. Today the Constitutional Court ruled in favour of Wild Coast communities, overturning the SCA judgment that...

The Madlanga Commission said it will lay criminal charges against controversial North West businessman, Suliman Carrim, for failing to appear before the inquiry. Carrim was expected to appear at the Madlanga Commission on today, four months after he allegedly collapsed at a gym following a heart attack. Carrim’s testimony has been postponed five times since April, with his lawyers repeatedly...

Yesterday, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorisation system. The system is designed to make travelling to South Africa easier and more predictable for eligible international visitors, while strengthening the government’s ability to assess travellers and manage the country’s borders. The launch took place at OR Tambo International Airpo...

Dr. Rebecca Walker of the African Centre for Migration and Society at Wits questioned whether SA’s costly repatriation drive was actually tackling migration or just moving people across borders. South Africa has spent almost R300 million repatriating foreign nationals, with nearly 90,000 people removed as part of the government's migration crackdown. Dr. Rebecca Walker says a strategy can on...

The Eswatini princess is in the country for a powerful and empowering women’s month dialogue focused on the power of driving meaningful change, particularly for women in rural and underserved communities.  GUEST: Princess Sibonakaliso Dlamini-Kasaro of Eswatini

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has licensed 18 new community radio stations, expanding access to local broadcasting and strengthening the role of community media in promoting information, culture, and social cohesion.  GUEST: Councillor Ntombiza Sithole - Chairperson of the Committee on Sound Broadcasting Services

Informal settlements are increasingly encroaching onto South Africa’s military bases, raising serious concerns about national security, infrastructure and the SANDF’s ability to protect strategic facilities. News24 reports that the Defence Department estimates it would cost about R520.9 million to secure the perimeters of several affected bases, while questions are being raised about d...

The National police has deployed a specialised team to support recovery efforts after a deadly mine collapse near Rustenburg has left at least 14 suspected illegal miners dead on Tuesday. We find out more on the incident and operations. GUEST: Major General Nonkululeko Phokane – SAPS Spokesperson

Today, Zambians are casting their ballots in a closely watched general election, with President Hakainde Hichilema seeking a second term amid concerns over the cost of living, jobs and the country’s economic recovery.  GUEST: Dr Tendai Mbanje - Governance and Elections Expert at the University of Pretoria

Recently appointed MK Party first Deputy President, Duduzane Zuma, says South Africans should be grateful to his father for his contributions to the country. Speaking at a Biznews conference recently, Duduzane said his father has helped the country to avoid “revolts.” GUEST: Dr. Ntsikelelo Breakfast, Political Analyst from the Nelson Mandela University

The Department of Water and Sanitation is calling on the public to get behind 17-year-old Sinenhlanhla Sikhulile Nkosi, the winner of the 2026 South African Youth Water Prize, as he prepares to represent South Africa at the prestigious Stockholm Junior Water Prize in Sweden later this month.  GUEST: Sinenhlanhla Sikhulile Nkosi, Winner of the 2026 South African Youth Water Prize

The Constitutional Court has denied direct access to several parties hoping to directly appeal the Western Cape High Court judgment halting the impeachment process against President Cyril Ramaphosa.  GUEST: Vuyo Zungula - ATM Parliament Leader

You penned a piece that doctors must look beyond treating individual illnesses and use their voices to advocate for healthier, more equitable societies. The article explores the role of medical professionals in challenging inequality, shaping health policy and strengthening healthcare systems, particularly across Africa. GUEST: Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa is chairperson of the South African Medical Associat...

We now cross over to our SABC International Reporter who’s covering the The SADC Council of Ministers meeting currently underway in Durban today. GUEST: Khayalihle Khumalo – SABC News International Reporter