The National Briefing

The Public Servants Association (PSA) is urgently calling for a provincial education summit in KwaZulu-Natal to tackle severe challenges facing the region's education system, particularly with 11,000 educator positions at risk due to budget cuts. This situation threatens the quality of education and the stability of schools in the province.   Guest: Mlungisi Ndlovu: KZN Provincial Manager Khumalo...

  Afrika Update Report   14 October 2024     Mozambique- Maputo  Mozambique's Governing Party Wins Capital Election and SADC Election Observer Mission  give thumps up to  Mozambique elections   The governing Frelimo party in Mozambique has won the vote in the capital city of Maputo, the elections commission said yesterday, in a tense vote widely expected to keep Frelimo in power.  Cameroon – Yaoun...

international: In recent years, hurricanes have become increasingly prevalent and devastating in coastal regions, particularly in areas like Florida. These powerful storms, characterised by their immense size and destructive potential, raise pressing questions about the role of climate change in their frequency and intensity. As we observe the unfolding impacts of hurricanes, understanding the int...

The issue of femicide in South Africa remains a critical and alarming concern, particularly highlighted by recent findings from the South African Medical Research Council. Women in the Eastern Cape face nearly double the risk of being murdered compared to the national average, while the overall femicide rate in the country remains disturbingly high. These statistics underscore the urgent need to u...

The Limpopo Department of Education has initiated an investigation following an incident at Makahlule Primary School in Malamulele, where 35 learners experienced symptoms of suspected food poisoning.   Guest: Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya: MEC, The Department of Education in Limpopo  

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has confirmed that over 70 Grade 12 learners from various West Rand schools are receiving treatment for suspected food poisoning. This incident raises significant concerns about food safety and health protocols within educational settings.   Guest: Motalatale Modiba: Gauteng Health Department, Head of Communications Guest: Shaheda Omar: Director, Teddy Bear...

The tendency of convicted criminals to reoffend remains a significant concern within the justice system, particularly highlighted by the recent case of Siphosoxolo Myeketho, who is accused of the Lusikisiki massacre shortly after being released on parole. This incident raises critical questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation and reintegration efforts for former offenders.   Guest: Dr Je...

In South Africa, the standard of soccer refereeing is a topic of significant interest and debate. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, the performance and professionalism of referees play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the game. This discussion examines the current state of refereeing in South Africa, including challenges faced by officials, the impact of training and deve...

  Afrika Update Report   11 October 2024   Mozambique- Maputo  Mozambique counts votes amid allegations of irregularities  Votes were being counted by Mozambique's national election authorities on Thursday as civil society monitors were compiling a parallel tally to try to detect possible signs of fraud.  The Southern African country voted on Wednesday in a national election that is widely expecte...

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a vital opportunity to discuss the latest findings from Avon’s Boob Census 2024. This groundbreaking global research study reveals concerning trends in breast cancer awareness among women and underscores the critical importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer. We invite you to engage in this important conversation, which aims to raise...

The  Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) issued a warning regarding significant delays in the issuance of meat import removal permits, which have escalated from a 48-hour process to an average of 8 to 9 days. With the festive season approaching, AMIE is urging urgent government intervention to address these delays, which are threatening food security and contributing to rising food...

The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has urged the Department of Home Affairs to address significant capacity challenges at the Tshwane Refugee Reception Centre. This call to action follows a site visit prompted by a tragic stampede incident at the facility in August, which highlighted serious staffing inadequacies.   Guest: Mosa Chabane: Chairperson, The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs   

At the recent EU Commission meeting, several pressing issues were brought to the forefront, highlighting significant concerns among member states. This discussion aimed to address challenges ranging from democratic backsliding in Hungary to the EU's response to geopolitical tensions. We unpack some of these critical topics and their implications for the future of the European Union.   Guest: Musa...

World Mental Health Day 10 October 2024 - Work can be a significant source of stress and poor mental health, yet “good” work has the potential to enhance mental well-being. It’s crucial to explore how the workplace can play a vital role in improving access to mental health treatment. The World Health Organization highlights depression as the leading cause of disability globally, making it essentia...

In a significant development, a parolee has appeared in court regarding the Lusikisiki mass murder case, raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. This case has captured public attention due to its shocking nature and the implications it holds for community safety and the justice system. As the legal proceedings unfold, we examine the details surrounding the c...

The United Civil Society in Action has urged Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau to dissolve the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) immediately. This call comes in light of allegations of corruption and a failure to distribute funds to community-based organisations, raising serious concerns about the commission's integrity and effectiveness.   Guest:Tebogo Sithathu: United Civil So...

On October 9, 2023, Dr. Nasiphi Moya was elected as the new mayor of Tshwane, marking a significant political shift in the city’s leadership. Supported by a coalition including the ANC, ActionSA, and EFF, Moya's election follows a tumultuous period characterised by rapid changes in leadership and shifting alliances.   Guest: Dr Nasiphi Moya: executive mayor of Tshwane  

Eskom has officially launched its new subsidiary, the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA), marking a significant step in the restructuring of the power utility. This initiative is part of Eskom's broader strategy to enhance efficiency and facilitate a competitive electricity market through the unbundling of its operations into three distinct entities: generation, distribution, an...

A tragic incident in Godini village, Eastern Cape, has resulted in the deaths of six members of a community policing forum (CPF) following an ambush by gunmen. This attack comes shortly after a police outreach program aimed at strengthening community safety initiatives.   Guest:Siyanda Biyela: National Spokesperson,  community policing forum (CPF)  

The African Rail Industry Association (ARIA) has praised the vertical separation of Transnet Freight Rail into two distinct divisions—Transnet Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) and Transnet Freight Rail (TFR)—as a major advancement for South Africa’s rail sector. This strategic move is poised to enhance operational efficiency and attract significant private sector investment.   Guest: Mesela Nhlapo: C...

Dr. Jo Barnes, an epidemiologist from Stellenbosch University, raised urgent concerns about the water quality in Hout Bay and other areas of Cape Town. As residents flock to beaches to cool off, the alarming contamination levels pose significant health risks.   Guest: Dr Jo Barnes, Epidemiologist - Stellenbosch University  

As the U.S. presidential election approaches on November 5, a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates a tight race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. While Harris holds a narrow lead among registered voters, significant divides exist over key issues such as the economy and immigration, which could influence voter sentiment and turnout.   Guest: Brooks Spector: Inte...

The security industry in South Africa is undergoing a transformation with the widespread adoption of drone technology. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have revolutionised surveillance and threat detection, offering rapid deployment, real-time data transmission, and extensive coverage. This integration enhances traditional security measures across various sectors, particularly in private security a...

  Afrika Update Report   09 October 2024     Mozambique- Maputo  Mozambique heads to the polls amid insecurity and drought-induced hunger today.   Close to 17 million voters in the Southern African nation of 31 million people, are registered to vote today for the next president along with 250 members of parliament and provincial assemblies.  Kenya – Nairobi  Kenya's parliament voted on yesterday t...