The National Briefing

  Afrika Update Report 16 October 2024 Kenya - Nairobi Chief Justice Koome names judges to handle DP Gachagua ouster petitions Kenya’s Chief Justice has set up a team of three judges to review petitions against the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who faces corruption charges. Botswana- Gaborone – election update The Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) alleged confident...

International: As the U.S. elections approach, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are intensifying their campaigns in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state with a significant number of electoral votes. With just three weeks remaining, the pressure is mounting on both candidates to connect with voters and solidify their support. In this analysis, we’ll explore the latest developments, key iss...

In response to the tragic deaths of six children from suspected food poisoning linked to snacks purchased from a spaza shop in Naledi, Soweto, health inspections are set to take place across the area this week. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has initiated compliance checks, revealing alarming practices among local businesses. Guest: Ms Prudence Moilwa: Head of Complaints and Investigations...

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) reported that R21.4 billion has been paid out in two-pot withdrawals since the system's launch on September 1, a significant rise from R4 billion just over a month ago. This new system allows retirement fund members to access a portion of their savings while ensuring funds are preserved for retirement. Guest: Edward Kieswetter: SARS Commissioner

On Monday, October 14, 2024, 48 learners from Rapelego Primary School in New Eesterus, Hammanskraal, were hospitalised due to a suspected case of food poisoning after consuming chocolate reportedly sold by a Grade 7 student. The Gauteng Department of Education is monitoring the situation closely. Guest: Steve Mabona: Spokesperson, Gauteng Education 

Science: October is Eye Care Awareness Month, highlighting the urgent need to address cataracts, the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. In South Africa alone, around 250,000 individuals are blind due to untreated cataracts, a condition that is both preventable and treatable. This month, we encourage donations to support initiatives providing free cataract surgeries and restoring sig...

Bafana Bafana has the opportunity to secure their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) with a victory over Congo in Brazzaville at the Alphonse Massamba-Débat Stadium.  Last Friday, South Africa delivered a commanding 5-0 victory against the Central African nation in Gqeberha, and another win tonight would guarantee their qualification for Afcon with two qualifying matches remaining. Guest:...

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) have launched a new project preparation bid window aimed at enhancing the readiness of large-scale public sector construction projects exceeding R1 billion. This initiative addresses the critical issue of underinvestment in infrastructure by providing essential support for project preparation, as emphasi...

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) interviews are ongoing, with the focus on filling the position of Judge President of the Western Cape Division of the High Court, previously held by Dr. John Hlophe before his removal. A total of seven candidates, including the acting Judge President, Patricia Goliath, will be interviewed for this pivotal role, as the JSC assesses their qualifications and visi...

On October 14, 2024, Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo hosted an engagement with stakeholders at Hartbeespoort Dam, addressing ongoing racial tensions surrounding state-owned land in the area. The meeting included business owners, civil society representatives, and state institutions, aiming to foster dialogue and clarify the department's stance on land policy related to the dam....

  Afrika Update Report   15 October 2024  Ethiopia – Egypt – Sudan  New Nile water sharing accord takes effect as Egypt, Sudan protest  Known as the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), the treaty aims to ensure equitable utilization and sustainable management of the world's longest river.  Several upstream countries have long argued that the downstream states of Egypt and Sudan had been unfairl...

Science: SpaceX has successfully launched its fifth Starship test flight from Texas, marking a significant milestone by achieving the first successful recovery of the rocket's towering first-stage booster using innovative metal arms. This feat demonstrates SpaceX's commitment to refining its technology for future space missions, including potential lunar and Mars exploration.   Guest: Prof lerotho...

We speak to Ronald Lamola on more than 100 UN member states signing the letter of support for UN chief after Israel’s persona non grata declaration   Guest: Ronald Lamola: DIRCO Minister   

Baagi Ba SA, a non-profit organization, has been instrumental in reuniting 36 South African drug mules with their families over the past six years. These individuals, often released on parole from foreign prisons, face challenges in returning home due to financial constraints and societal stigma. With a growing number of South Africans incarcerated abroad for drug-related offenses, the organizatio...

  Earlier this year South Africa’s former foreign minister, Naledi Pandor, announced that citizens fighting for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in Gaza could face legal repercussions upon their return. This decision was taken amid rising tensions between South Africa and Israel, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.   Guest: Michelle Nel: Lec...

Analysis of JAC interviews this far: The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) recently conducted an interview with Acting Judge President Patricia Goliath for the vacancy left by the impeachment of John Hlophe. Goliath faced scrutiny over the Western Cape High Court's alleged internal issues and her leadership style, as highlighted by a critical submission from a fellow judge. Chief Justice Mandisa M...

  Guest: Sifiso Skenjana: Economist and Managing Director of ESG Analytics  

Remembering Mboweni: The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Tito Mboweni on October 12, 2024, at a Johannesburg hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. Mboweni’s legacy as a pivotal figure in transforming South Africa’s labor landscape during the post-apartheid era will forever be cherished.   Guest: Zwelinzima Vavi: General Secretary of...

In this tribute, we remember Tito Mboweni and his significant impact on South Africa’s economy through his influential roles as former Finance Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank. Mboweni’s leadership and vision were pivotal in navigating the complexities of the nation’s financial landscape, implementing crucial reforms, and fostering economic stability. This reflection will highlight his co...

Remembering Mboweni: Tito Mboweni, the former Finance Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank, passed away at the age of 65, leaving behind a profound legacy in South Africa's economic landscape. His commitment to inflation targeting and fiscal prudence played a crucial role in stabilizing the economy during turbulent times. Mboweni's larger-than-life persona and his candid approach to governanc...

Remembering Mboweni: Tito Mboweni, the former Finance Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank, passed away at the age of 65, leaving behind a profound legacy in South Africa's economic landscape. His commitment to inflation targeting and fiscal prudence played a crucial role in stabilizing the economy during turbulent times. Mboweni's larger-than-life persona and his candid approach to governanc...

Remembering Mboweni: In a heartfelt commemoration, the African National Congress (ANC) reflects on the legacy of Tito Mboweni, a prominent figure whose contributions shaped the party and the nation. Renowned for his leadership, economic insights, and unwavering commitment to social justice, Mboweni’s impact on South Africa's political landscape remains profound. As the ANC honours his memory, it e...

Vladimir Putin recently met with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian in Turkmenistan, focusing on enhancing cooperation between their countries amid shifting global dynamics. This meeting underscores a growing alignment between Russia and Iran, particularly in light of their mutual opposition to Western influence.   Guest: Roland Henwood: Political Scientist And Commentator At UP  

In this piece, we remember Tito Mboweni, a prominent figure in South African politics and economics, through the eyes of a close friend and colleague of over 40 years. This reflection will explore Mboweni's character, his contributions to the nation, and the personal anecdotes that shaped his legacy. Join us as we unpack the life and impact of a remarkable individual who played a pivotal role in t...

A recent ruling by the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court has cast significant doubt on Transnet's selection of International Container Terminal Services Incorporated (Ictsi) as the preferred bidder for managing the Durban Container Terminal Pier 2. The court found Transnet's process to be potentially flawed and unfair to other bidders, particularly regarding Ictsi's compliance with the requ...