The National Briefing

National Nutrition Week:Our daily food choices significantly influence our overall health and well-being, impacting everything from energy levels to disease prevention. Recognizing the importance of nutrition, the Department of Health is collaborating with various stakeholders for National Nutrition Week, from October 9 to 15, 2024. This year's theme, "Eat right for a better life," aims to raise a...

Right of reply: Prof responds to interview by Higgins Mdluli from the Cane Growers association on Tuesday.  Higgins is said to have claimed that there are job losses associated with the HPL (sugary beverage tax) there is currently a paper under review which shows that this isn't the case. He refrains from mentioning the cost to individuals and the country that obesity and its consequences cause. ...

KZN 100 days report: The KwaZulu-Natal government is intensifying its efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by deploying 173 volunteers to local police stations. Premier Thami Ntuli announced this initiative, emphasizing its role in ensuring compliance with the Domestic Violence Act and enhancing community engagement. Additionally, the premier highlighted a broader approach t...

  Afrika Update Report   08 October 2024  Mozambique – Maputo  Mozambique headed for crucial elections amid jihadist insurgency and drought-induced hunger  Mozambicans will vote this week for a new president who many hope will bring peace to an oil- and gas-rich northern province that has been ravaged by a jihadist insurgency for nearly seven years.    Ethiopia – Addis Ababa Ethiopia president rep...

The sugar industry is once again raising concerns about the health promotion levy, commonly known as the sugar tax, amid growing calls for its repeal or a freeze on future increases. Introduced by the government in 2018 to combat rising diabetes and obesity rates, the tax's effectiveness and impact on the industry are now under scrutiny.   Guest: Higgins Mdluli, chairman of SA Canegrowers   

Impact of the GNU on the country’s economy: As the first 100 days of the Government of National Unity (GNU) come to a close, political experts emphasize that President Cyril Ramaphosa's leadership is now under scrutiny. While Ramaphosa celebrated the collaborative spirit of his Cabinet, analysts suggest that the initial "honeymoon" phase is over, and the real challenges of governance lie ahead.  ...

In a significant move to ensure energy stability, Eskom has invested R5.92 billion in Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) between April 1, 2024, and October 3, 2024. This strategic investment has effectively prevented load shedding, resulting in South Africa enjoying 193 consecutive days without any blackouts. This achievement underscores Eskom's commitment to enhancing the reliability of the national...

  Guests: CDE Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri: ANC Sookesperson   

In light of the recent tragic events in the Eastern Cape, where 18 lives were lost last week and another 6 in Qumbu this morning, it’s imperative for our listeners to understand the police's response to the escalating violence. Today, we have the Commissioner with us to discuss the strategies and measures being implemented to address this urgent issue and ensure community safety.   Guest: Fanie Ma...

Recently, Earth has welcomed a temporary companion in the form of a mini-moon, officially designated as asteroid 2024 PT5. Captured by our planet's gravity on September 29, 2024, this tiny celestial body highlights the dynamic nature of our solar system and offers a unique opportunity for scientific study.   Guest: Prof lerothodi leeuw: Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of the W...

As high food prices continue to impact consumers, the Competition Commission has observed notable shifts in purchasing behavior. The latest Essential Food Pricing Monitoring Report reveals that consumers are increasingly boycotting certain favorites while opting for more affordable alternatives.   Guest: Trudi Broekmann: Consumer Analyst and Consumer Law Expert  

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has faced a setback after the Department of Public Service and Administration, led by Mzamo Buthelezi, rejected his request to appoint unqualified candidates in his ministerial office. This decision emphasises the importance of adhering to minimum qualification standards in public service appointments. Guest: Makashule Gana : RISE Mzansi MP 

Cosatu is poised to hold a national strike next week in response to the pressing issues of rising unemployment, increasing poverty, and the escalating cost of living. This action aims to mobilize support for workers and advocate for urgent measures to improve economic conditions and protect livelihoods. The strike reflects the growing frustration among South Africans facing these critical challeng...

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) convenes twice a year to interview candidates for judicial appointments to South Africa's Superior Courts. Chaired by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, the interviews are public and live-streamed for accessibility. The JSC, established by the Constitution, consists of judges, politicians, and legal professionals. The process includes a mix of closed deliberations an...

The Gauteng High Court has dismissed the MK’s declaratory application to postpone the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) interviews scheduled for tomorrow. This ruling underscores the legal principle that decisions made by superior courts are binding on lower courts and parties involved. Guest: Mpumelelo “Bond” Nyoka: Attorney And Legal Analyst

At the Opening Ceremony of PsySSA's 30th & PAPU's 10th Anniversary Congress, the 4th Steve Biko/Frantz Fanon Award for Psychological Liberation will be awarded to the legal team that presented South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice at The Hague in January 2024 Guest: Dr Saths Cooper: Pan-African Psychology Union President

The 5th International Social Justice Conference and the 6th Social Justice Summit, focused on the vital theme of social justice and the Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger. This gathering brings together thought leaders, practitioners, and advocates dedicated to addressing food insecurity and promoting equitable access to resources. Together, they will explore innovative solutions, share b...

Experts and activists are uniting with the Department of Water and Sanitation to tackle the longstanding pollution issues plaguing the Vaal River. We speak to a water and environment specialist about the significance of this initiative, the severity of the challenges facing the river, and the critical need to preserve its ecosystem and ensure high water quality. Protecting the Vaal River is essent...

In a significant move to ensure energy stability, Eskom has invested R5.92 billion in Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) between April 1, 2024, and October 3, 2024. This strategic investment has effectively prevented load shedding, resulting in South Africa enjoying 193 consecutive days without any blackouts. This achievement underscores Eskom's commitment to enhancing the reliability of the national...

Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso, has voiced significant concerns regarding the land restitution program in South Africa. Notably, many beneficiaries are choosing monetary compensation over the return of land, raising questions about the future of land ownership and agricultural productivity in the country. Guest: Mzwanele Nyhontso: Minister of Land Reform and Rural...

As October unfolds, political dynamics are shifting rapidly, with crises emerging both domestically and internationally. These developments pose significant challenges for Kamala Harris's campaign, as she navigates a tight race against Donald Trump. With pressing issues like a potential Middle East conflict, a looming port strike, and the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the stakes are high just wee...

As the conflict in the Middle East escalates dramatically, major international airlines—including Delta, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa—have suspended flights to Israel and Lebanon. This escalation has prompted multiple countries, including the U.S., Germany, Canada, the UK, and Australia, to initiate evacuation plans for their citizens in the region, reflecting the urgenc...

The gazetting of the Legal Sector Code (LSC) by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr. Parks Tau, marks a significant milestone in transforming the South African legal profession. Following delays under former Minister Ebrahim Patel, this code aims to address historical imbalances and improve opportunities for black practitioners, particularly black women. Guest:Thabo Masombuka - Leg...