The National Briefing

The Gauteng Provincial Government has commenced the payment of its first installment toward the R12.9 billion E-Toll debt, marking a significant step in addressing the financial obligations stemming from the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project. This initiative follows a structured agreement between the provincial and national governments aimed at resolving the funding impasse associated with the p...

We speak with the Eastern Cape Government following the tragic Lusikisiki mass shooting that has left the nation in shock. Over the weekend, news broke of a horrific incident in Ngobozana village, where 17 family members and friends lost their lives in a devastating act of violence. This incident has not only impacted the affected families but has also raised urgent questions about safety and comm...

Science of life: Gauteng is facing level 1 water restrictions to manage its declining water supply, with the measures expected to last until March 2025. This comes amid broader concerns about a global water crisis, highlighting the urgent need for effective water management strategies.   Guest: Kate Stubbs, Marketing Director at Interwaste  

Despite recent decreases in fuel prices and cuts to interest rates, South African households continue to face a high cost of living. This persistent economic strain underscores the complexities of the financial landscape, where factors such as inflation, rising food prices, and stagnant wages contribute to ongoing financial challenges for many families.   Guest: Mametlwe Sebei: The General Industr...

In this discussion, we engage with the Department of Social Development to explore their response to the tragic mass killing in Lusikisiki. We’ll delve into the support and aid they are providing to the affected individuals and families, highlighting their efforts to address the immediate needs of the community in the wake of this devastating event.   Guest: Mzukisi Solani: Director Communication:...

Public Interest SA is excited to announce a remarkable response to the 2024 Whistleblower Awards, receiving 45 valid nominations—nearly double that of last year. This increase highlights the growing recognition of whistleblowers as vital champions of transparency and accountability in society.   Guest: Tebogo Khaas, Chairperson of Public Interest SA  

At the recent 10th national congress of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) in Boksburg, President Magope Maphila was re-elected and pledged to push for the immediate implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill.   Guest: Nomusa Cembi - Sadtu Media Officer And Spokesperson   

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump expressed a commitment to work with both Ukraine and Russia to resolve their ongoing conflict during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York on September 27. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for strong U.S. support, outlining his "victory plan" for Ukraine. While praising Zelenskyy, Trump highlighted his positive relationship w...

  Guest: Athlenda Mathe: National Police Spokesperson   

  Afrika Update Report   30 September 2024     Sudan – USA- Kenya- Ethiopia   Special Envoy for Sudan Perriello Travels to Kenya and Ethiopia  U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello will travel to Nairobi and Addis Ababa, starting on September 29, to continue diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Sudan and engage with Sudanese refugees and civilian leaders on restoring the path to an inclu...

The Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa (DENOSA) in Gauteng m convened a press conference to address the current state of healthcare in the province, providing an honest account amid recent political discussions. They aimed to highlight key issues impacting healthcare delivery, particularly focusing on government finances, healthcare infrastructure, and nursing practices.   Guest: Bong...

  Guest: David Mahlobo: Deputy Minister, Department of Water and Sanitation   

Alliance (DA) is demanding the reinstatement of Cilliers Brink as mayor of Tshwane following his recent ousting by a council vote. This political shift has sparked tensions between the DA and the African National Congress (ANC), with both parties exchanging accusations and ultimatums.   Guest: Helen Zille: DA federal council chairperson  

In a landmark decision, the Bloemfontein High Court has ruled that two husbands can adopt their wives' surnames after overturning an outdated provision in the Births and Registration Act that prohibited such a practice. This ruling addresses gender discrimination inherent in the law and paves the way for greater equality in surname choices for married couples.   Guest: Mpumelelo Mkhabela: Legal Ex...

The City of Ekurhuleni is embarking on a campaign to recover R26 billion in outstanding municipal accounts, with R20 billion owed primarily by households. This initiative, driven by Finance MMC Jongizizwe Dlabathi, aims to address the revenue constraints facing the municipality and promote a culture of payment among residents.   Guest: Jongizizwe Dlabathi: MMC for Finance,Ekurhuleni Municipality ...

The National Mine Closure Strategy aims to address critical issues surrounding mine closures in South Africa, particularly the lack of closure certificates for large mines with potential environmental impacts. This strategy seeks to ensure that mine closures are managed effectively, promoting sustainable post-mining economies and community involvement.   Guest: Hassen Lorgat: convenor of the South...

Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated dramatically, with Israel intensifying its military operations in Lebanon amidst rising casualties and international calls for a ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his commitment to military action until key objectives are met, while U.S. officials express concerns about the potential for a wider conflict.   Gues...

Science of life: As World Heart Day approaches on September 29, attention is drawn to the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in South Africa, particularly heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. These conditions are increasingly straining the healthcare system, driven by lifestyle factors such as poor diets, sedentary living, and tobacco use.   Guest: Elske Rich: Dietitian and Spo...

Cilliers Brink has been ousted as mayor of the City of Tshwane following a successful motion of no confidence led by a coalition of the ANC, EFF, and ActionSA. Brink's removal underscores the shifting political alliances and ongoing instability in the city's governance, as well as growing concerns over service delivery disparities.   Guest: Funzi Ngobeni: Action SA, Caucus Leader in the Gauteng Pr...

September is Tourism Month in South Africa, offering a crucial opportunity to highlight the significance of the tourism sector to the national economy. As the country works towards recovery post-pandemic, South Africans are encouraged to travel domestically, supporting local businesses and sustaining jobs within the industry. This month serves as a reminder of the vital role tourism plays in foste...

Challenges facing the South African local government sphere due to the failure of coalitions between leading political parties. This situation has created instability and inefficiency, which is particularly concerning given that local government is the closest sphere to communities and plays a critical role in delivering essential civic services.   With many South Africans increasingly relying on...

Dr. Gerhardus Burger, a former associate of late Steinhoff CEO Markus Jooste, has pleaded guilty to insider trading, admitting to selling over 39,000 shares shortly before the company's financial collapse. His actions, influenced by a direct message from Jooste, have led to a suspended five-year prison sentence as part of a plea agreement.   Guest: Rob Rose: Journalist   

Recent polls indicate a troubling trend for Germany's democratic parties, with the far-right populist party, the AfD, poised for success in upcoming provincial elections in Thuringia, Saxony, and Brandenburg. This potential outcome threatens to complicate coalition-building efforts among mainstream parties, reminiscent of South Africa's recent experience with a Government of National Unity (GNU) a...