The National Briefing

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has issued a stark warning about a looming national crisis in South Africa’s education sector. At a recent media briefing, she highlighted the growing financial challenges facing provincial education departments, emphasizing the urgent need for increased funding to maintain teacher posts and educational programs.   Guest: Colin Wardle, Communication Lead for...

Rising electricity costs in Cape Town have sparked community unrest, with activists warning of escalating protests across various neighborhoods. The recent demonstration in Lavender Hill highlights a growing frustration among residents, reflecting broader concerns that could lead to widespread civil action.   Guest: Mark Schrikker : community activist  

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently met with billionaire Elon Musk in New York, amid excitement in South Africa over the potential launch of Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service. The meeting, which took place during the UN General Debate, was described as positive, with discussions centered on Musk’s possible investment in South Africa.   Guest: Jan Vermuelan: Editor, My Broadband  

The recent snowstorm that swept through parts of South Africa has raised significant concerns about its impact on the agricultural sector, particularly in key regions like KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and the Eastern Cape. Farmers are facing challenges that could have lasting repercussions on their operations.   Guest: Gernie Botha Vrystaat: Free State Organised Agriculture  

The Government of National Unity has been in office for just over 100 days, marked by notable disunity among its 10-party coalition despite promises to prioritise public interests. However, amidst these challenges, South Africans are displaying a cautious optimism about the potential for collaboration and progress.   Guest: Dr Harlan Cloete: Governance Expert & Research Fellow, University of F...

The Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN) has expressed outrage following reports that Mlungisi Makhanya, president of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), was allegedly poisoned by state agents of Mswati's regime. This incident, which has drawn parallels to the assassination of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, raises significant concerns about human rights violations and state-sponso...

  Guest: Siphiwe Dlamini: SANDF Spokesperson  

  Guest: Nosizwe Nokwe Macamo: PRASA Board Chairperson   

International: Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has announced the country's readiness to resume nuclear negotiations, coinciding with his visit to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This development comes amid increased regional tensions and a recent shift in Iran's leadership towards a more moderate approach.   Guest: Naeem Jeenah: Senior Researcher: Humanity at Mistra  

In light of the recent tragic incident involving the death of a hiker at Table Mountain, we explore the current safety and security measures in place within the park. This event has intensified concerns about crime and safety in the area, prompting SANParks to implement new regulations and collaborate with various stakeholders to enhance security. We will examine the steps being taken to ensure th...

  Afrika Update Report   24 September 2024  UNGA@79- Afrika – South Afrika  Africa still needs money to implement lofty international goals, but South Africa's seat at the G20 can help.  This was the substance of African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat's address at the Summit of the Future in New York, where the world adopted an optimistic agenda covering peace and security,...

  Guest:Wayne Duvenage: CEO of the Organization Undoing Tax Abused (OUTA)  

The Gauteng Democratic Alliance (DA) is urging the provincial education department to prioritise the well-being of both pupils and teachers after the department announced plans to reduce funding for food nutrition and transport schemes. This decision is projected to save approximately R4.5 billion, raising concerns about the impact on student welfare and educational access.   Guest: Sergio Isa Dos...

  Guest: Nocawe Mafu: NEC member and Deputy Chairperson of the ANC Archives Subcommittee  

  Guest: Hasha Tlhotlhalemaje: General Manager Regulation Eskom  

Science of life: In today’s high-pressure work environment, fostering a resilient and engaged workforce is essential, particularly as employee well-being becomes a focal point for organisations. With cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) being the leading cause of death worldwide—claiming approximately 17.9 million lives annually—employers must prioritise heart health amidst rising inactivity rates. Curr...

  Guest: Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana: Eastern Cape Hawks Spokesperson   

  Guest: Vally Padayachee: power and energy expert and a former senior executive of City Power Jhb and a former executive manager of Eskom  

  Guest: Javu Baloyi: Spokesperson, Commission for Gender Equality  

    Guest:   Dr Vuyelwa Mehlomakulu: Senior Research Manager in the Public Health, Societies and (PHSB)  research division of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).

  Guest: Dr Alison Bentley sleep clinician at the Restonic Ezintsha sleep clinic in Parktown  

In this segment, we speak with a Environmental Scientist about the extreme weather conditions currently affecting Japan. Just months after a devastating earthquake, record rainfall has led to severe flooding, resulting in six fatalities. We’ll explore why this region is particularly vulnerable to such disasters and the broader implications of climate change in this context. Guest: Simon Gear:  Env...

Art and music play a vital role in shaping our heritage, reflecting the cultural narratives, values, and identities of communities. As we approach Heritage Day, it's essential to consider its significance in today's society. Does this day still carry the weight it deserves, or has its meaning shifted? This discussion invites us to explore the enduring impact of artistic expression on our understan...