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Police in Rustenburg are investigating a case of inquest, following an incident where 14 illegal miners died. This reportedly happened as a result of a rockfall on yesterday evening at Nkaneng near Rustenburg in the North West. North West police spokesperson Adele Myburgh says eight other people have been hospitalised, with many others possibly stuck underground
The Westbury community in Johannesburg is continuing its engagement with residents today following the recent escalation of gang-related violence and shootings in the area. The focus will be on the ongoing violence, safety concerns and the impact of shootings on innocent residents, including children and teenagers. We spoke to Westbury Community Activist, Bishop Dalton Adam....
The Home Affairs Portfolio Committee in Parliament says it will seek legal advice on a potential conflict of interest involving a member of the Immigration Advisory Board. The committee says even the perception of a conflict must be addressed, given the sensitivity around immigration. The committee is interrogating a potential conflict of interest involving a member of the Immigration Advisory Board, after the member allegedly represented former beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina in her ongoing immigration battle.
City Power is urging Johannesburg residents to cut electricity use as cold and wet weather places added pressure on the network. The utility says 2,450 outage calls remain open across its eight service centres, despite teams working to restore power. It says high demand, rain, infrastructure faults and difficult working conditions are contributing to prolonged outages across several areas. Jon Gericke spoke to Joburg's City power spokesperson Isaac Mangena
State Advocate with IDAC, Drushantha Ramsamy, testifying before the Madlanga Commission, says an Inspector-General of Intelligence report on Crime Intelligence investigations was not supposed to reach prosecutors through then-Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. She says investigators were still working on the probe in January 2025 and could not share findings. Ramsamy says Mchunu later arranged for a hard copy to reach prosecutors. Ramsamy testifying before the Commission had this to say
South Africa's official unemployment rate has increased by 0,9 of a percentage point to 33,6 percent in the second quarter of 2026, from 32,7 percent in the first quarter, that's according to Statistics South Africa's latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey released today. Jon Gericke spoke to Efficient Group chief economist Dawie Roodt
Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile says school safety remains a major concern, with the department reviewing its seven-pillar safety strategy. Maile says Search-and-seizure operations will continue at schools, both announced and unannounced. Maile says the department is spending R165 million on school patrollers, while working with SAPS and Community Safety to strengthen security and combat crime. Maile was briefing the media outlining plans to curb issues affecting Gauteng schools. Maile is facing a mammoth task to stabilize compromised safety measures in a number of schools that have been identified high-risk. Briefing the media had this to say
Orlando Pirates will have to get past Sekhukhune United in their bid to win a fifth successive MTN8 title.Pirates were pushed into extra time to beat MTN8 debutants Durban City in Soweto.
Sekhukhune United got the better of AmaZulu in a thrilling 4-3 win, which also needed extra time to separate the teams. The second semi-final will see Mamelodi Sundowns face Golden Arrows, who sent Kaizer Chiefs packing. SAfm sports anchor Jon Gericke has more
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has distanced itself from Morita Forestry, following allegations that the company operated an investment scam that cost South Africans hundreds of millions of rand. The department says it had no formal relationship with Morita Forestry, but participated in a tree-planting event where the company donated about 300 trees. The department says Morita Forestry may have used its participation in the One Million Trees Programme to create an impression of legitimacy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the department's Chief Director for Forestry Development, Tebogo Mathiane
The South African Weather Service has issued a severe warning for disruptive snowfall over the Drakensberg and northern parts of Eastern Cape. Snow is also a possibility in Johannesburg and other parts of Gauteng as the cold front intensifies. We spoke to Senior Forecaster at the South African Weather Service, Tokelo Chiloane.....
Iran and Oman are reportedly close to reaching a deal over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. However, Tehran says an agreement alone will not be enough to reopen the strategic waterway. The agreement is considered crucial to broader efforts to end the war, which began after simultaneous American and Israeli attacks on Iran in late February. We spoke to Senior Researcher and Director at Africa Asia Dialogues Thembisa Fakude
The Road Traffic Management Corporation is urging motorists to exercise extreme caution as snow, rain, freezing temperatures and icy conditions affect several provinces. Multiple roads and mountain passes are closed, including parts of the N3, N6, N9, R58 and R74. Motorists are advised to postpone unnecessary travel, reduce speed and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. RTMC spokesperson is Simon Zwane
The Transport Department says a number of vehicles are currently stranded on the Barkly Pass, with emergency personnel on the ground working to assist. This comes as three mountain passes have been closed in the province due to heavy snowfall. Eastern Cape Provincial Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose says motorists are being advised to delay their journeys and avoid certain areas where possible, to prevent further incidents and reduce pressure on emergency services. He is urging motorists to heed warnings issued by authorities, reduce their speed and maintain a safe following distance. RTMC spokesperson is Simon Zwane
A raging fire has destroyed about 700 shacks at the Jika Joe informal settlement in Pietermaritzburg, leaving between 400 and 500 residents, mainly women, homeless. KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma says more than 400 affected residents had been profiled by yesterday afternoon. Duma says he is liaising with Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane, who is expected to visit the province this week with the UN-Habitat Executive Director. The provincial government says R445 million has been allocated to build new houses for Jika Joe residents. Ndabezinhle Sibiya Spokesperson for MEC of Transport and Human Settlements
Cooperative Governance Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has proclaimed the 4th of November as the date for the Local Government Elections, formally launching the 90 day election period. The proclamation marks the first major milestone in the election calendar as political parties prepare to contest municipalities across the country. Hlabisa says government is ready to deliver a free and fair election. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Elections Analyst, Wayne Sussman
South Africa will be hoping that their unconvincing start and adversity in the Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco will serve as a wake-up call to propel them to greater heights for the rest of the tournament.But despite the poor start, Banyana Banyana are just 90 quality minutes away from achieving their first goal -- qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
They take on host nation, Morocco, in a quarterfinal match in Rabat on Saturday evening. SAfm sports anchor Jon Gericke has more
Former MK Party Secretary General Floyd Shivhambu has clarified reasons for his removal from the position. He says it was informed by a fake intelligence report which said he was intending to overthrow former President Jacob Zuma as party leader. Shivambu addressed the media in Midrand north of Johannesburg.
While the SA government have not yet revealed if the Proteas team and management will receive bonuses for winning the World Test Championship, they are still in store for a massive payday.
The ICC will pay out around R64 million to the Proteas, depending on the exchange rate, as the winners will pocket $18 million for their efforts. The breakdown of what players will receive has not been detailed, but the money will likely be split among the players, coaching and support staff, and Cricket SA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Eastern Cape Cogta MEC, Zolile Williams says the provincial government will identify land to relocate the flood victims in Mthatha in the province. Williams was speaking ahead of the day of mourning for the flood victims at at King Sabatha Dalindyebo College in Mthatha. As a temporary solution, the victims have been accommodated to Bed and Breakfast accommodation. Williams was speaking before the commencement of a memorial service currently underway for the 92 who died during last week's floods in the province. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Nomzwanele Bacela
South African captain, TembaBavuma, says his team is determined to leave a lasting legacy and hope to inspire teams of the future to also reach for the stars. Bavuma and the Proteas are back home following their heroics at the Home of Cricket at Lord's where they beat defending champions Australia, to claim the ICC's World Test Championship title. Bavuma was addressing the media at Cricket South Africa's headquarters at Melrose Estate in Johannesburg where the players also enjoyed a late lunch with their employer following the arrival earlier this morning
The Consumer Price Index has kept below 3 percent, remaining steady for the Month of May at 2.8 percent. This was announced short while ago by Statistics South Africa on their website. Food prices have however shown a sharp increase with food and non-alcoholic beverages in May sitting at 4.8 percent more expensive than a year ago. Chief Director of Price Statistics at Stats South Africa, Patrick Kelly elaborates...
The Police Ministry revealed in a parliamentary reply that IPID has a backlog of about 15 000 investigations into allegations of crime by police officers. Gauteng is the province with the second highest number of outstanding investigations against police officers, However, it is the leading province in rape by a police officer, it also leads the other provinces by far when it comes to police corruption. Jon Gericke spoke to IPID Spokesperson, Lizzy Suping
Gauteng's Basic Education Department says it continues to offer psycho-social support to the siblings and family of slain teenager Likhona Fose. The department's spokesperson Steve Mabona was speaking outside the Roodepoort Magistrates Court where a 39-year-old suspect Mduduzi Mnisi, made a brief appearance to apply for bail. The court postponed the murder case as Mnisi stands accused for the murder of the 14-year-old Fose whose mutilated body was discovered in an open veld in Durban Deep West of Johannesburg. Here is department spokesperson, Steve Mabona speaking outside court earlier today. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole
Angry community members in Carolina, Mpumalanga are planning to shutdown the area in protest over poor service delivery. The community accuses the Chief Luthuli Municipality of forcing them to pay for ineffective services. Among their concerns are the poor quality of water, and high electricity prices. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Mdhuli.
United States (US) President Donald Trump has taken to social media, calling for what appears to be the total surrender of the Iranian Government. Trump returned from the G7 Summit in Canada 24 hours early and is presenting a much more muscular approach towards Iran, after urging Tehran's population of almost 10-million people to evacuate the capital as he huddles with his national security team at the White House. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
The South African Weather Service has issued a warning for a cold front which is expected to sweep through the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces from today. The conditions are set to move in swiftly, with another front anticipated to follow on Thursday evening, intensifying the effects experienced in the regions and surrounding areas. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News Meteorologist, Azwitakadzi Tuwani
The High Court in Pretoria is expected to hear an application by defence counsel, Charles Mnisi, for the dental examination of accused number three in the Senzo Meyiwa trial, Mthobisi Mncube. This follows earlier testimony, in the Pretoria High Court, where a witness mentioned seeing a gold tooth on photographs downloaded from Mncube's phone memory card. Mncube and four others are on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Pearl Magubane
Justice Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi says the National Prosecuting Authority is receiving the necessary support from her department despite its shortcomings. Kubayi is appearing before the parliament's portfolio committee on Justice and Constitutional Development. This comes as Batohi faces scrutiny after alleging that the NPA has been "infiltrated" by rogue elements...
The leadership of the Economic Freedom Fighters says it will assist in the identification of the 10 people who died in the crash on the R34 between Ulundi and Vryheid last night. This comes as the death toll from the bus crash has been revised down to 10. The accident occurred when a bus carrying supporters from the party's National Youth Day rally in Durban, allegedly collided with a oncoming truck struck. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to to SABC Reporter, Mondli Radebe
While no major court is officially named after Roger Federer, a street leading to the tennis stadium in Halle, where he plays, has been named the Roger-Federer-Allee. Additionally, a tennis court at his former club in Basel, Switzerland, is named the "Roger Federer Court". There are tennis courts named after Novak Djokovic, in Belgrade, Serbia, and in Clichy, France. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Action SA says the Government of National Unity (GNU) has not lived up to its promises thus far, The party says 1 year after the formation of the GNU not much progress has been made. Action SA has also lamented the NPA for not dealing with organized crime effectively among other issues. Action SA Parliamentary Leader Athol Trollip says the South African government must tighten its belt in the fight against corruption and crime
Residents of Eldorado Park in Johannesburg are calling on government and local officials to immediately intervene in the violence plaguing the area. This follows a recent shooting of three people over the weekend. Its alleged that unknown suspects opened fire on nine young men standing outside a mosque. Residents say they are living in fear because of a high crime rate in their area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Calvin Dludla.
The official National Youth Day celebrations have kicked off in Potchefstroom where Deputy President, Paul Mashatile is expected to deliver the keynote address. Young people in attendance have called on government to create platforms where they could exhibit their artistic work. In attendance at this event is the Sports, Arts and culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie, Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa including Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli amongst others.
Several top Iranian commanders have been killed by Israel's large-scale strikes against Iran today. Iran has promised a harsh response and Israel said it was working to intercept about 100 drones launched towards Israeli territory in retaliation. The United States, which was due to hold the latest round of talks with Iran on restricting its nuclear programme on Sunday, said it had had no part in the operation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel military operation would continue for as many days as it takes. Jon Gericke spoke to Dr Sikwani Ncube, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Public Law at the University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies is currently in session receiving presentations from Mobile Network Operators on progress being made towards the national goal of universal connectivity as well as approaches towards further reducing the cost to communication. Jon Gericke spoke SABC reporter, Abra Barbier
National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola has committed to an additional five-thousand five hundred new recruits that are to join the South African Police Service. Masemola says advertisement for these new posts will start in June and adds that the new recruitment age limit has been increased from 30 to 35 years old. Masemola has been speaking in Pretoria alongside Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu on strategies to enhance service delivery within the SAPS. He also says they are targeting retired detectives to return to the SAPS on a contractual basis...
The bail application of a police officer who allegedly kidnapped a 19-year-old learner, has been postponed to the 24th of June, to allow for the conclusion of a identification parade into evidence. Kamogelo Baukudi, a Grade 11 learner at a Bloemfontein school for children with special needs, was on his way home from school when was he was kidnapped by two men posing as police officers. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News reporter, Thabiso Radebe.
The bodies of 21 out of the 78 people that have been reported to have died in floods in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape have been positively identified. Heavy rainfall caused the floods in the area. President Cyril Ramaphosa is also currently visiting affected the families. Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa and Premier of the province, Thami Ntuli are also in attendance. The search for more bodies continues. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Eastern Cape Abongile Janjies...
According to a Reuters report, the United States is discouraging other governments from attending next week's High-Level United Nations conference on re-invigorating the two-state solution between Palestinians and Israelis. The news agency cites a U.S. diplomatic cable sent earlier this week. In the cable the US warn countries that taking "anti-Israel actions" after the conference, will be viewed as acting in opposition to U.S. foreign policy interests and possible diplomatic consequences from Washington.
This comes as the United States is evacuating non-essential staff and families from certain missions and military bases in the region. This amidst an apparent deadlock in nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran over advancements in Tehran's nuclear programme. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports on these and other developments.
Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube says support for learners and plans to repair damaged infrastructure in the Eastern Cape has started. This after severe floods affected the schooling of more than six-thousand learners. More than 70 schools were damaged. Floods also swept away a bus, in which learners were travelling. Gwarube says resources are being mobilised at national level. For more we are joined on the line by our reporter in the Eastern Cape, Abongile Jantjies and the Gift of the Givers' Ali Sably
Parliament's Constitutional Review Committee has received over 250 public proposals to amend the Constitution, following the close of submissions in May. With an unprecedented volume of input from civil society, political groups and private citizens, the committee now enters the next phase that could span up to a year. Jon Gericke spoke to Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Oscar Mathafa.
The MMC for Public Safety in the City of Johannesburg, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, says a significant development has emerged in the ongoing investigation into the tragic murder of 14-year-old Likhona Fose. A man who owns a spaza shop in Durban Deep, has been arrested following credible leads. He spoke to Jon Gericke
Government is paying millions of Rand to employees who don't exist. That's according to the Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration chairperson Jan de Villiers. De Villiers says many government departments across South Africa are rife with ghost employees, that keeps skilled people out of the workforce while corrupt officials line their pockets. He spoke to Jon Gericke
An Air India plane bound for London with 242 people on board has crashed minutes after taking off from India's Western City of Ahmedabad. The airline and local police say It remains unclear if there are any fatalities. The plane was headed to Gatwick airport in the UK and its understood the crash may have occurred in a civilian area near the airport. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC correspondent in India, Neha Poonia.
A new report compiled by DataEQ has placed the City of Tshwane as the best-performing metro in South Africa in terms of public sentiment, while Johannesburg ranked lowest. The Pulse of the People quarterly report shows that Tshwane recorded the least negative sentiment, driven by praise for clean water access, proactive leadership, and visible service improvements such as cleanup campaigns and law enforcement. In contrast, Johannesburg drew the highest level of public dissatisfaction. Jon Gericke spoke to Sarah Lamb, Head of Client Services at DataEQ.
The DA says it wants all ministers to submits details on the processes followed in every board appointment done by each minister. This follows controversy surrounding Higher Education and Training Minister, Nobuhle Nkabane over the submission to parliament of the names of the independent selection panel she relied on to make appointment to SETA board last month. Nkabane landed in hot water several week ago after it emerged that she had appointed controversial and political connected people to chair the boards of the SETAs. For more on this we are now joined on the line by DA spokesperson and member of the Portfolio Committtee on Higher Education, Karabo Khakhau.
The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg is hearing the alleged xenophobia case against civil organiosation, Operation Dudula. Civil orgations including Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia, the South African Informal Traders Forum, the Inner City Federation and Abahlali BaseMjondolo have approacherd the court for relief against Operation Dudula and a number of organs of state for allegedly failing to discharge their duties in relation to Operation Dudula's allegedly discriminatory and unlawful conduct. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News Reporter, Zara Groenewald.
A 39-year-old suspect apprehended in connection with Likhona Fose's murder is expected to appear at the Rooderpoort Magistrate's court today. This follows the discovery of Fose's mutilated body in bushes not far from her home in Durban Deep two weeks ago. Gauteng police say the 14-year-old had gone missing after leaving her home to go play with friends nearby. For the latest we are now joined on the line by our reporter on this story, Sashin Naidoo
A battalion of 700 US Marines is being sent to Los Angeles to support a National Guard deployment of up to 4 000 troops to protect federal property amid immigration-related protests that have at times turned violent. President Donald Trump authorized an additional 2 000 troops, doubling the National Guard deployment over the objections of state and local politicians. In a statement on X, California Governor Gavin Newsom said Marines should not be deployed on American soil facing their own countrymen to fulfill the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial President. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports on the tense scenes that continue to play themselves out both on the streets of LA and in the burgeoning political standoff between Washington and California.
A national convention which will set the agenda for South Africa's national dialogue will be held on the 15th of August. President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement yesterday. He said the national dialogue would not be a one-time event but would unfold in phases, starting from local consultations and sectoral engagements, and then proceeding to provincial and national gatherings. Ramaphosa also announced that he had appointed an eminent person's group to lead the process. Sibahle Motha reports, and Jon Gericke spoke to Founder and Managing Director of Khulisa Social Solutions Dr. Lesley Ann Van Selm and a political analyst and Associate Professor at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Ntsikelelo Breakfast
Authorities in the Eastern Cape have recovered the minibus taxi that was carrying the ten missing learners in the Mthatha region in the eastern Cape. The minibus taxi was swept into a river in Decoligny yesterday following floods that heavy rain caused in the province. Nine people have since lost their lives. Search and rescue operations are continuing for the missing learners. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
Authorities in the Eastern Cape have recovered the minibus taxi that was carrying the ten missing learners in the Mthatha region in the eastern Cape. The minibus taxi was swept into a river in Decoligny yesterday following floods that heavy rain caused in the province. Nine people have since lost their lives. Search and rescue operations are continuing for the missing learners. Jon Gericke spoke to Khuselwa Rantjie, who is the Eastern Cape's Provincial Government's Spokesperson...
A new witness has taken the stand in the High court in Gqeberha, where the inquest into the deaths of the Cradock Four is underway. Nombuyiselo Mhlauli is the wife of Sicelo Mhlauli and has testified on the impact her husband's death had on her and their family. Mhlauli is the latest witness in the probe into the 1985 deaths of her husband, along with Matthew Goniwe, Fort Calata and Sparrow Mkonto. SABC Reporter, Kim Daniels has more...
Authorities in KwaZulu-Natal are bracing for worsening winter weather. Jon Gericke spoke to KwaZulu-Natal provincial Department of Transport, Ndabezinhle Sibiya
A number of houses are submerged in water at Decoligny in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. This is due to the heavy rains that fell over night in most parts of the province. Some people are seen trapped on trees as they were trying to avoid the overflowing water. Severe cold, snow and rain have gripped the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal as weather warnings intensify. In the Eastern Cape, a level six warning has been issued for disruptive snowfall and rains. For the latest we are now joined on the line by our reporter Fundiswa Mhlekude
Red Meat Industry Services has implemented Phase 1 of its response to the ongoing Foot-and-Mouth-Disease outbreak. This as the country has been battling to contain the outbreaks of foot and mouth disease for several years. The foot-and-mouth disease is common among cattle, sheep and goats and is characterised by fever and blister-like sores on the tongue and lips. For more on the activation of an operational centre tasked with coordinating the response to the foot-and-mouth outbreak, Jon Gericke spoke to CEO of the Red Meat Industry Services, Dewald Olivier.
his is due to the heavy rains that fell over night in most parts of the province. Some people are seen trapped on trees as they were trying to avoid the overflowing water. Severe cold, snow and rain have gripped the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal as weather warnings intensify. In the Eastern Cape level six warning has been issued for disruptive snowfall and rains. Jon Gericke spoke to Eastern Cape Transport Spokesperson, Unathi Binqose
Snowy weather conditions are expected along the Lesotho border and western parts of the Free State, as South Africa grapples with ongoing freezing weather conditions. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Ishmael Modiba and Lehlohonolo Thobela; Forecaster at the South African Weather Service
The Trump administration has ordered U.S. Marines into Los Angeles and intensified raids on suspected undocumented immigrants. This has fueled more outrage from street protesters and Democratic leaders who raised concerns over a national crisis. Some 700 Marines based in Southern California were expected to reach Los Angeles this morning, as part of a federal strategy to quell street demonstrations opposing the immigration raids, which are a part of a signature effort of President Donald Trump's second term. Here's a report from Reuters. Jon Gericke spoke to political analyst at the Democracy Without Borders South Africa, Dr Sysman Motloung
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that additional images of three of the accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, can be submitted as evidence. The ruling follows an application by the state, in which prosecutors argued that the photographs provide a clearer perspective of how some of the accused looked at the time of the soccer star's murder. Five men are on trial the October 2014 fatal shooting. SABC Reporter, Pearl Magubane has more...
The Pretoria magistrate' s Court has granted R 8000 bail to a 59-year-old police captain accused of raping a 20-year-old female trainee. The man is accused of raping the trainee in his office after threatening to dismiss her for failing to salute him. SABC Reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni has more...
The City of Johannesburg is reportedly defending the awarding of almost R1 billion in massive transport contracts to politically connected families. This is despite concerns from the Auditor-General. Jon Gericke spoke to Daily Maverick Associate Editor Ferial Haffajee,
A 16-year-old girl who falsely reported that she was raped has been charged with perjury after investigations by police in Mpumalanga revealed that she fabricated the story. Police spokesperson in the province, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli says police were sent on a manhunt for two men who were driving a black VW Polo from Dullstroom to Lydenburg on Sunday on allegations of rape. Significant resources, including the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit were immediately dispatched but the girl eventually confessed that she had visited a male friend and fearing her parents reaction, chose to lie abour being raped. Jon Gericke spoke to Brigadier, Donald Mdhluli.
After about 78 years of manufacturing tyres in Kariega, Nelson Mandela Bay, in the Eastern Cape, Goodyear factory is reported to be closing. The tyre manufacturing company is said to be restructuring which includes the closure of the company's manufacturing plant in the Eastern Cape. It alleged that section 189A retrenchment notices have already been served; a process which will be facilitated by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration(CCMA). Jon Gericke spoke to Alan Mukoki, CEO of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI)
The Lootsberg pass on the N9 between Graaff Reinet and Middleburg in the Eastern Cape is now closed to traffic due to snowfall. Snow is falling over a number of high lying areas of the Eastern Cape and traffic authorities are also keeping a close eye on the Wapadsberg Pass on the R61 between Nxuba and Graaff-Reinet. The cold snap is expected to persist for the next few days. Jon Gericke spoke to South African Weather Service, Lehlohonolo Thobela
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie has announced a new implementation plan for the collective repatriation of the remains of South African exiles, focusing on SADC countries. McKenzie says the initiative is a moral duty to restore dignity and heal wounds and fix injustices caused by apartheid. Mckenzie has made a call to families of liberation heroes who died in exile to come forward.
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has apologised for his remarks about black legal practitioners. This after Advocate Charles Mnisi requested to be excused on Monday from proceedings in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial because he would be travelling home after competing in the Comrades Marathon. Mokgoatlheng says his conduct was incorrect.
A female runner who was reported missing yesterday after completing the Comrades Marathon has been found. Moira Harding, vanished after completing the Comrades Marathon in Durban yesterday. Jon Gericke spoke to Garrith Jamieson of ALS Paramedics
Democratic Alliance Federal Council Chairperson, Helen Zille may consider putting her name forward for running for the Mayor of the City of Johannesburg ahead of next year's local government elections. According to the Daily Maverick, the former DA leader and former Premier of the Western Cape Province says she will decide by next week whether to apply for the job as a candidate - within the DA - who want to be considered have an application deadline of June the 15th to do so. Zille could pontetially be the last hope to save a crumbling City of Gold which has been plagued by decaying infrastructure, crime and unemployment amongst many other challenges.Jon Gericke spoke to Democratic Alliance Federal Council Chairperson, Helen Zille
The son of one of the Cradock Four is continuing his testimony in the ongoing inquest into the deaths the anti-apartheid activists. Lukhanyo Calata has recounted the impact of the death of his father, Fort Calata, sentiments shared by former anti-apartheid activist and academic, Professor Derrick Swartz, who testified yesterday. SABC News Reporter, Kim Daniels has more
Eben Etzebeth is will not play for the Sharks in their URC semi-final against the Bulls due to injury.
Fellow Bok lock Jason Jenkins is also injured. The Sharks' lock pairing for the trip to Loftus Versfeld is Emile van Heerden and Corne Rahl. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi will captain the side. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
US President Donald Trump has threatened to cancel Elon Musk's government contracts after a very public falling-out on social media. Trump said he was "very disappointed" and "very surprised" with Musk's attacks against his signature spending bill. The massive package, which passed the Republican-led House of Representatives by a single vote in May and has been dubbed by Trump as his "one, big beautiful bill", was slammed by Musk in a number of social media posts because it's estimated to increase the federal deficit by trillions of dollars. Sherwin Bryce-Pease has this story. Sakina Kamwenso spoke to John Stremlau, the International Relations expert and Professor of International Relations at Wits University.
It's that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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South Africa's Mintek this week shot ahead of the world by using hydrogen to process ferromanganese.
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Bulgaria this week reached out to South Africa to collaboratively perfect the generation of green hydrogen.
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Storing hydrogen is the best way to store energy, a top German research company pointed out this week.
Martin Creamer will be back at the Coal-Face at the same time next Friday.
The departmement of Agriculture says over 900-thousand doses of vaccines have been ordered to help fight the spread of the Foot-and-Mouth disease outbreak. This follows alarms raised by the Southern African Agri Initiative about the growing number of farmers struggling financially due to their inability to seel livestock. This stems from an FMD outbreak that began in KwaZulu-Natal in December 2024 which has since been reported in both Gauteng and Mpumalnga. Cattle farmers are now calling on government to take immediate action in order to avoid a national food crisis in the country. Yesterday, we spoke to the CEO of the Southern African Agri Initiative, Francious Rossouw. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Animal Health at the Department of Agriculture, Dr Mpho Maja
Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament for the Committee on Justice and Constitutional development, Damien Klooper says the NPA is failing at the basics, with the most recent example being the Timothy Omotoso case. The DA held a briefing this morning to discuss the failures of the National Prosecuting Authority regarding priority crimes and state capture. Klopper, says establishing an anti-corruption unit, would be an effective way of boosting prosecutions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Jean Redpath, Senior researcher from the the Dullah Omar Institute.
Gauteng has recorded a 7.9% decrease in crimes, with murders decreasing by 10.8%. This is according to Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni, who released the provincial crime statistics for the 4th quarter of the 2024/25 financial year this morning. Kidnapping and Cash-In-Transit cases increased by 15.8% and 0.4% respectively.
The Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, says the escalation in the number of children being recruited to form gangs over the years is worrying. Nel was speaking in Mitchell's Plain (on the Cape Flats) during a child protection commemoration event to mark child protection week. Residents and community organisations in the area gathered to discuss issues such as child safety, cyber bullying, child trafficking and crimes affecting the youth. Andile Mbanjwa reports....
The Southern African Agri Initiative has raised alarms about the growing number of farmers struggling financially due to their inability to sell livestock. This crisis stems from the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak that began in KwaZulu-Natal in December 2024 and has since spread to major feedlots nationwide. Cattle farmers are now calling on the government to take immediate action to contain the disease and prevent further spread. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of the Southern African Agri Initiative, Francious Rossouw.
Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed that Ranga Chivaviro has left the club with immediate effect.
The forward joined Chiefs in June 2023, and the club chose not to extend his two-year contract. In total, Chivaviro has made 45 appearances for Chiefs while scoring nine goals. Rumours are flying around as to who will fill the spot in front. 23-year-old Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro, who is currently on loan to AmaZulu from Sundowns, is on the cards. As is Orlando Pirates forward Monnapule Saleng. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
A former girlfriend of an unidentified man who claimed to be an acquaintance of Philangenkosi Makhanya – the deceased suspect in the Olorato Mongale murder case – has also come out and implicated the man as being part of a syndicate targeting women. Mary – who's not her real name – says she too was also able to identify the man through the sound of his voice whilst being interviewed by SABC NEWS. This was after Makhanya was fatally shot in a shootout with police at this man's flat in Amanzimtoti in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday last week. This report by Jayed-Leigh Paulse and Tshepo Phagane...
South Africa Under-17 coach Vela Khumalo will be the head coach of the national side for the tournament. It's a tricky balance for the national side with friendlies also scheduled against Tanzania on Friday and Mozambique on Tuesday. With the Sundowns players preparing for the Club World Cup, Bafana coach, Hugo Broos will be using these matches as a way of testing some new faces. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Zamimpilo Informal Settlement residents, in Riverlea, Johannesburg have gathered and are asking for police intervention to protect the residents. This comes after a body with gunshot wounds was discovered at the Informal Settlement this morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Provincial police Spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo
The National police commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola has condemned an attack on members of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) while performing their duties in Westbury, near Johannesburg. The officers were seen being chased by community members who threw bottles including stones. Police then withdrew tactically from the operation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
Following SABC's interview with an unidentified man in the wake of the fatal shooting of one of the main suspect in Olorato Mongale's murder case, more victims have come forward. They claim to recognise the man's voice and allege he is part of the syndicate targeting women and robbing them. Philangenkosi Makhanya was shot and killed during a shootout with police last week. He was sought for the 30 year old Mongale's murder, whose body was found dumped on the side of the road in Lombardy, North of Johannesburg more than a week ago. In this exclusive report by Jayed-Leigh Paulse and Tshepo Phagane, one of the victims of this syndicate detailed her harrowing experience. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Bandile Masuku, Gauteng Chairperson of the portfolio committee on community safety
Walter Sisulu University's Mthatha campus has been rocked by fresh student protests following the release of residence manager Manelisi Mampane on R10,000 bail yesterday. The situation is still tense on the N2 road near Walter Sisulu University in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. This as students are in confrontation with the police who are trying to maintain order. Mampane is facing charges of murder, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearm. This after he allegedly fatally shot a 24-year-old student, Sisonke Mbolekwa, during a protest at the institution in April. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
The country's Gross Domestic Product has grown by a mere 0.1 percent in the first quarter of this year as compared to the forth quarter of 2024. Four of the ten industries on the production side of the economy recorded positive gains, with agriculture driving most of the upward momentum. Agriculture production increased by 15,8%, adding 0,4 of a percentage point to GDP growth with good rains contributing to the industry's fortunes. Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke explains further and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sibusiso Mbotho from the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity's Household Affordability Index.
The executive of SAFA is appearing before the parliamentary committee for sport, arts and culture to account for its latest audited financial statements. Safa will also be expected to answer questions about the organisation's governance, provide an update on video assistant referee implementation, give comment on allegations levelled against the president and CEO Danny Jordaan and Safa's inability to pay salaries timeously. But before all of that started, ANC member, Gaolatlhe Kgabo, raised concerns about the lack of attenmdance by the minister Gayton McKensie. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg has adjourned to 4 December, the corruption case against former President Jacob Zuma and French arms company, Thales. The adjournment comes after Judge Nkosinathi Chili dismissed applications by both parties to have all charges against them dropped. Zuma's petition to the Supreme Court of Appeal against the dismissal of his application for the removal of the lead prosecutor, is still pending. The charges against Zuma and Thales include corruption and racketeering in connection with the multi-billion-rand arms deal in 1999. SABC Reporter, Dries Liebenberg has more...
The Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha is today expected to inspect the home of one of the Cradock Four, Matthew Goniwe. The inspection forms part of investigations by the re-opened inquest into the deaths of anti-apartheid activists, Fort Calata, Sicelo Mhlauli, Sparrow Mkonto and Goniwe. The men died after apartheid security police abducted while the group attempted to leave the city of Gqeberha in 1985. The court is also expected to visit a Garden of Remembrance erected in the group's memory. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Sisipho Ngcumbe...
Former Free State premier, Ace Magashule's former personal assistant Moroadi Cholota is a free woman. This after the High Court in Bloemfontein ruled that her extradition from the US was unlawful. The court also said it did not have the jurisdiction to try Cholota on corruption that she and Magashule are charged with. The case is related to the 255-million-rand asbestos roofing removal tender. Judge Phillip Loubster delivered judgment in the trial within a trial. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to legal expert, Elton Hart
Health experts, together with government officials have vowed to introduce stricter laws aimed at totally banning smoking in all public spaces and buildings. This follows the World marking No Tobacco Day at the weekend. Experts warn that the continuing false advertisement which portray tobacco products as cool and attractive to young people needs special attention. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director General for Primary Healthcare at the health department, Jeanette Hunter.
The men from Pretoria are drawn with Dortmund, Fluminense and their opening game is on the 18th of June against Ulsan from South Korea. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The inquest into the deaths of the Cradock Four – Fort Calata, Matthew Goniwe, Sicelo Mhlauli, and Sparrow Mkonto, is currently underway in the Gqeberha High Court. The proceedings were postponed last year September due to issues over the funding of legal fees. During this week proceedings only family members are expected to testify. Here is Senior Counsel, Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi making his opening remarks at the inquest.
The State prosecutor in the Senzo Meyiwa trial says authorities are unable to find tracking data for the vehicles involved in the 2020 arrest and transporting accused number one, Muzi Sibiya. This follows a request from defence counsel, Charles Mnisi, for the records to be presented as they are central to Sibiya's defence. Five men are on trial in the Pretoria High Court for the 2014 murder of the soccer star. SABC Reporter, Pearl Magubane is following the trial and filed this report.
A significant number of South African school staff screened between March 2024 and February 2025 have been flagged for criminal activity, including violent and sexual offence. This is according to to a report from background screening provider TPN. The report, which reviewed thousands of educators, coaches, administrative workers and grounds staff across SA schools, showed that one in 34 had a criminal record. Education experts warn the problem remains deeply entrenched and dangerous. FSakina Kamwendo spoke to Ashleigh Laurent who is the Legal Council at TPN; which is a a background screening provider.
A 26 year old woman has appeared before the New Brighton Magistrate's Court, in the Eastern Cape after she was arrested for allegedly abducting two premature babies from the Dora Nginza Hospital. In her first appearance in court, the state dropped charges against her co-accused. The babies were abducted at maternity ward while still in incubators. SABC News Reporter, Sisipho Ngcembe filed this report...
KwaZulu Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, says that the police expect to uncover more victims of crimes committed by the main suspect in murder of Olorato Mongale. This is after Philangenkosi Makhanya was killed in the early hours of this morning* in shootout with the police in Amanzimtoti- south of Durban. Mkhwanazi said that they received tip offs regarding Makhanya's whereabouts. He says Makhanya was sought in connection with several other kidnapping cases. Lets hear from KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi
The body two-year old Gauteng boy, Kutlwano Shalaba, who went missing last November, has reportedly been found. The Sowetan newspaper is reporting that the remains were located in a shallow grave at an abandoned mine near Randfontein, west of Johannesburg. The publication is also reporting that a 50-year-old sangoma, who operates at the Vereeniging area, has been arrested. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Police Spokesperson, Capt Tintswalo Sibeko
The Western Cape High Court, sitting in Saldanha Bay, has sentenced all three people convicted in the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, to life inprisonment for human trafficking and an additional ten years for kidnapping. The sentences of the girl's mother, Kelly Smith, Jacqueen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn will run concurrently. Here is what Judge Nathan Erasmus said in handing down the sentences earlier today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the mother of Kelly Smith, Amanda Smith
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) says it has taken steps to address the allegedly unlawful use of Starlink in the country. Starlink is a low-Earth orbit satellite broadband service operated by SpaceX, in which South African-born Elon Musk owns an estimated 42% stake. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Icasa chairperson, Mothibi Ramusi.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is cracking down on social grant beneficiaries who may be receiving income that they have not disclosed to SASSA. SASSA says about 210-thousand people have been identified through credit bureau checks. SASSA says it was acting in terms of the Social Assistance Act, which requires beneficiaries to declare all sources of income when applying for a grant and to report any changes after the grant has been approved. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SASSA spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi
Several people have reportedly been wounded in what appears to be taxi violence at the Kathlehong Taxi rank, on Gauteng's east rand. Eye witnesses say the alleged shooting incident left a female scholar transport driver and security guards, among those injured. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Lopang Alamu
Police say investigations into the murder of Olorato Mongale are continuing and the search for suspects has reached a critical stage. Mongale was brutally murdered and dumped in a sidewalk in Lombardy, Johannesburg just two hours after she had informed her loved ones that she was going on a date at the weekend. The 30-year-old reportedly met the man in Bloemfontein, Free State, last week and they agreed to meet in Johannesburg. The student was last seen alive when she was picked up by a white VW polo outside her apartment. SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, says there is a syndicate that targets women at malls. The perpetrators approach them, request to take them out on dates, and then rob them.
A concerning figure of almost one quarter of South Africa's households, representing 22.2 percent, consider their access to food as inadequate or severely inadequate, a 4 percentage points higher than in 2019 before the outbreak of COVID-19. This is according to the findings of Statistics South Africa's General Household Survey for 2024 release yesterday. The data also indicate that between 2003 and 2024, the percentage of individuals who benefited from social grants increased from 12,8 percent to 40 percent. The survey was conducted from more than twenty thousand households, between January and December 2024. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Statistics South Africa's Acting Deputy Director General, responsible for Population and Social Statistics Solly Molayi,
The Road Accident Fund chief executive, Collins Letsoalo, has been placed on special leave. Letsoalo appeared before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) this morning, was suspended allegedly with full pay. This emerged before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts when RAF was updating the committee on investigations conducted by the Special Investigating Unit. Lets hear from MP, Mkhuleko Hlenga Speaking on this matter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary Correspondent, Lulama Mayta
Families that have not been able to bury their loved ones that form part of the three bodies that were stolen from a funeral parlour in Kuruman two months ago remain in the dark about the whereabouts of their loved ones. The three bodies which includes that of a minor girl were stolen on March 18th. Two men entered the guardroom at Motheo wa Bophelo mortuary, assaulted security and stole three bodies. There has not been any breakthrough despite the reward offered by the police. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a relative, whose brother's body was stolen
There is still half a match to be played in Africa's richest league. Tomorrow, SuperSport United continue their load-shed match against Golden Arrows at midday with the score locked at 1-1. The match was abandoned more than three months ago. Mathematically, Golden Arrows could still reach the coveted Top 8 if they win the match with a margin of six goals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The management at the South African Post Office says the Business Rescue Practitioners at the state-owned entity are on track to implement a sustainable plan for the organisation, moving forward. Speaking during SAPO's briefing to Parliament's portfolio committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, SAPO's Acting Chief Financial Officer, Fathima Gany, said a number of interventions have been introduced to turn the finances of the postal services around, including branch rationalisation and retrenchment processes
A small group of women has held a prayer gathering outside the venue for the sitting on the Joshlin Smith matter, in Saldanah Bay, in the Western Cape province. Sentencing procedures are underway at a local community hall after the 6-year-old's mother, Kelly, her co-accused Jacquen Appollis and Steveno Van Rhyn were convicted on charges of child trafficking. Joshlin went missing from her Middlepos home in February last year. The women are calling for a maximum sentence for the accused and justice for Joshlin. They say their children are not safe. They are also demanding Kelly to tell the whole world what she did to the little girl. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Andile Mbanjwa
Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke says while 76,8% of South African households have access to improved water sources in the dwelling or in the yard, much needs to be done to address the needs of those who still have no access to water. Speaking during the release of Stats SA's General Household Survey findings for the 2024/25 financial year, Maluleke also highlighted the long distances that some South Africans are forced to walk in order to get clean usable water.
South Africa's Lloyd Harris comes up against World number 15, Andre Rublev. This is a golden opportunity for the former world No. 31, and a strong run in Paris over the coming days could potentially help revive his career. However, that seems unlikely at the moment, as he hasn't won a main-draw match at a tour-level event since Wimbledon last year and hasn't defeated a top-20 player since the Australian Open in 2023. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Legendary South African actor Presley Chweneyagae has died at the age of 40. The passing of "Cobra/Mokwepa" as known by many was confirmed by the agency - MLA that represented him. His family says they are on their way to Pretoria to his residence before they can give more details. This after the news broke on social media this morning. The actor rose to prominence for his starring role in Tsotsi, which won the Academy Award for Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Thabang Morutloa
Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi says he believes transformation is sacrosanct and cannot be postponed in the ICT Sector. Malatsi is briefing the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies on his proposed policy directions in the ICT Sector as gazetted last week Friday. He says the proposed draft policy that recognises alternatives to Black ownership requirements is not only meant for Starlink. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dominic Cull, an ICT sector lawyer and SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington
The testimony of a new state witness has been delayed following the late arrival of one of the accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, in the Pretoria High court. Today's proceedings began after the cross examination of lead investigator, Brigadier Bongani Gininda was paused last week. Five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana goal keeper. SABC Reporter, Pearl Magubane filed this report...
Residents of Toekomsrus in the West Rand are fearing for their lives as gangs in the area continue to wreak havoc. Residents say the turf war between the Umbrellas and Varados has led to some in the community being collateral damage. They say Toekomsrus has become the new Westbury as police struggle to deal with the crime. Gang violence has been highlighted on the international stage following comments made by South African billionaire Johann Rupert. This was during a meeting at the Oval Office in Washington in the US last week on Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Toekomsrus community activist, Shida Abrahams and gang expert, the Former Western Cape Police Commissioner, Dr Lennit Max
Akani Simbine claimed his third 100m Diamond League win of 2025 in Rabat last night.
The speedster found his stride in the middle of the race, finishing in a time of 9.95, just outside his season's best of 9.90. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium kicks off today in Cape Town today. Now in its fourth year, this gathering of experts, decision-makers, and industry leaders puts infrastructure in the spotlight. With government championing a trillion-rand push to transform South Africa into a construction powerhouse. Dean Macpherson Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure says This bold move aims to fast-track economic recovery, generate jobs, and boost service delivery and cementing infrastructure as the engine of national revival. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Katlego Legodi
The African Development Bank Group has conceded its annual meeting in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, with a key focus on electing new leadership. South Africa is throwing its weight behind Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, to replace outgoing President, Akinwumi Adesina, of Nigeria. The high-stakes gathering unfolds against a backdrop of global uncertainty. Delegates aim to strategise Africa's economic transformation, leveraging its capital potential. Established in 1964, the AfDB continues its mission to power, industrialise, and uplift Africa through its High 5 development priorities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Khayelihle khumalo in in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Court proceedings have concluded for the day in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping and human trafficking. The three convicted human traffickers, Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn appeared in court in the High Court today ahead of sentencing procedures on the West Coast next week. Andile Mbanjwa reports...
Members of Parliament's Finance Committee on Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals are not happy that Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is today not present at the sitting but will instead speak to them virtually. The proposed budget he tabled in parliament on Wednesday proposes fuel hike levy Committee members feel that this is too much of an important matter for the minister not to be physically present. Commitee member Sinawo Tambo reiterates the sentiments of the collective members...
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says operations are underway to hoist to the surface, the almost 300 miners who are trapped underground at Sibanye-Stillwater's Kloof 7 shaft, near Johannesburg. The miners have been underground following a reported incident which took place late last night. It is alleged that there was equipment failure, resulting in damage to the exit point of the shaft. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Duncan Luvuno, NUM Health and Safety Chairperson
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu has dismissed claims of a white geneocide in South Africa. He was speaking during the SAPS fourth quartely crime statistics being delivered in Pretoria. Mchunu says although he respects the US president, Donald Trump, he has no respects of his false claims of a white genocide in South Africa...
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has ordered that vehicle tracking evidence of all vehicles that were present when one of the accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial was arrested be given to the defence. This after defence counsel Charles Mnisitold the High Court in Pretoria that the movement of the vehicles was central to Muzi Sibiya's defence. Sibiya and four others are on trial for the murder of former BafanaBafana captain in October 2014. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
Former President, Thabo Mbeki has called on African leaders to advance the continent's priorities in the upcoming G20 Leaders Summit. Speaking to members of the media on the sidelines of preparations of the 15th Thabo Mbeki Africa Day Lecture, Mbeki said the G20 summit will provide a platform for Africa's issues to be placed on the global agenda. Boingiwe Zwane spoke to International editor, Sophie Mokoena.
Two women accused of stealing two babies from Dora Nginza hospital in the Eastern Cape are appearing at the New Brighton magistrates court. The two premature babies (2 and 4 days old) were abducted from Dora Nginza hospital on Tuesday night, and were found on Wednesday with two women bringing them back to the hospital. The two women have been arrested and are appearing in court today. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Lerato Fekisi.
Spurs beat Manchester United 1-0 to win the Europa League title last night.
For United, it's the end of an average season, but for Spurs, it's a light at the end of the tunnel. But what are the thoughts of their manager, Ange Postacoglu. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula has reacted with dismay at the conduct of US president, Donald Trump during his engagement with President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Oval office, in the White House yesterday. Mbalula has however lauded Ramaphosa for his composure and conduct, stressing the exposed reasons behind some of the sentiments and stance of the Trump administrations against the country. Mbalula says the point was made clear that the country has a challenge of crime, and not white crime. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Sandile Swana.
Police in the Eastern Cape province have arrested two women, aged 25 and 26, in connection with the abduction of two infants at Dora Nginza Hospital.The babies were allegedly stolen from the maternity ward on Tuesday night. Provincial Police Spokesperson, Sandra Janse van Rensburg, says one of the police officers was exiting the premises of the hospital when he noticed two women and called for help.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Communications Eastern Cape Department of Health, Siyanda Manana
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected at the White House at approximately 5.30pm today (Wednesday 21 May) for a much-anticipated bilateral meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Chief Diplomat Ronald Lamola, part of a quartet of ministers who briefed the President yesterday, confirmed that the delegation was upbeat and looking forward to reset what he described as a mutually beneficial relationship. The Presidency also remained tightlipped about a possible meeting with Elon Musk and potential opportunities that might be explored while the billionaire continues to misrepresent the facts around his difficulties in getting a license to operate his internet service - Starlink - in South Africa. Sherwin Bryce-Pease has this comprehensive update. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AfriForum Chief Executive Officer, Kallie Kriel
It's the sixth European final to be contested between two English sides, and the third to involve Tottenham, who are chasing their first major trophy of any description in 17 years.
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim will look to the club's ninth European final to inject some life into his faltering tenure at Old Trafford. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Analysts expect that South Africa's National Budget will be passed following significant consultation among parties within the government of national unity. This comes as Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, prepares to make his third attempt at tabling the National Budget this afternoon (Wednesday 21 May) in Cape Town, following a standoff over a VAT hike which National Treasury has since withdrawn. A lower economic growth projection below the National Treasury's previous 1,9-percent forecast for this year, is also anticipated. Naledi Ngcobo reports and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Independent Economist and Columnist, Duma Gqubule and chief economist at the Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt
The South African national uner-20 football side arrived back in South Africa this morning. Amajita won their first ever Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations title in Cairo on Sunday. They also qualified for the 2025 Under-20 FIFA World Cup to be held in Chile later this year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The department of Home Affairs is currently briefing Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on a number of issues, including state-funded legal representation for undocumented foreign nationals. The department is also providing update on its collaboration with the Department of Social Development on services provided to undocumented foreign and migrant children. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Abongwe Kobokwana
The Democratic Alliance (DA) says it has written to the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Finance, Dr Joseph Maswanganyi, to request an urgent hearing on the financial and ethical crisis at Daybreak Foods. This comes as the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) on Friday injected a further R74 million into the embattled farming establishment in a bid to pay for outstanding salaries for April, buy chicken feed supplies, and for specific essential operational expenses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA's MP and Deputy Spokesperson on Appropriations Andrew Bateman
The Winter season is gearing up to get into full swing. A severe cold front is making its way to various parts of the country from today. The cold front is expected to bring snow and a chilly drop in temperatures in some provinces. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Meteorologist, Azwitakadzi Tuwani.
Yet another electricity substation in the Tshwane Metro went up in flames this morning. Some parts of Centurion and Pretoria East experience power supply interruption after explosion at Swartkop substation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tshwane Metro spokesperson, Selby Bokaba
The Presidency says it hopes President Cyril Ramaphosa and his US counterpart President Donald Trump will have a positive engagement next week. Ramaphosa is set to meet with Trump on Wednesday in Washinton DC. This comes as Pretoria and Washington DC have strained bilateral relations. The presidency says this will offer the two countries a golden opportunity to reset their strategic relationship. Bonolo Maribe has more and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of Practice at the University of Johannesburg, a Research Associate at Oxford University, Dr Pali Lehohla
The trial of the three accused in the February 2020 theft at President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm has been postponed and will resume later in the year at the Modimolle Regional Court in Limpopo. Immanuela David and siblings, Floriana and Ndilinasho Joseph, allegedly broke into President Ramaphosa's farm and stole over 580 000 US dollars hidden in a sofa. Immanuela David has been denied bail and is in police custody. The Joseph siblings were granted bail.
The area surrounding the Union Buildings, in the City of Tshwane, is a sea of red as the Economic Freedom Fighters lead their "VAT victory march" to National Treasury. Scores of EFF supporters have gathered to celebrate the Western Cape High Court's decision to set aside the 0.5 percentage point increase VAT increase, following an application brought by the EFF and Democratic Alliance. This as the EFF has maintained that parliament's adoption of the fiscal policy framework was unlawful. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha
Mamelodi Sundowns completed their league fixtures with a 2-0 win over Magesi yesterday. The men from Pretoria had already been crowned champions but celebrated in style at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium. Sundowns lost just four games and drew once in their 28 matches. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Gauteng police have confirmed that two people have died during a violent protest action which took place in Diepkloof, Soweto earlier today. This comes after a truck was looted and set alight during the protest, causing major disruptions to traffic flow. The protest is believed to have been sparked by resident demanding improved service delivery amongst other issues. Police spokesperson, Colonel Mavela Masondo explains...
Water & Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, is expected to conduct an oversight inspection of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment plant and Klipdrift Package plant in Hammanskraal. The inspection is part of a broader effort to ensure safe and clean water access for the Hammanskraal community. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SANCO's regional chairperson in the area, Velaphi Khoza...
Members of Parliament's Justice and Constitutional development committee lashed out at the National Prosecuting Authority today, following the acquittal of the Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso. In April this year, Omotoso and two fellow accused were acquitted from charges of rape of several of his church congregants, human trafficking and racketeering. The NPA, led by its head, advocate Shamila Batoyi, were called to explained how the case ended up with this ruling. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Zalene Merington...
Dr Nandipha Magudumana's legal team say they will study the full judgment and possibly appeal at the Constitutional Court. Magudumana's bid to have her arrest declared unlawful has been dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal. However, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed a judgment to dismiss Dr Nandipha Magudumana's application to have her arrest in Tanzania declared unlawful. Here is the NPA national spokesperson; Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga
Kaizer Motaung Jr has demanded a top8 finish from his side. They are 9th, on the same points as Chippa, but have a game in hand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Mamelodi Sundowns were confirmed as Premiership champions last night thanks to a 3-nil win over Chippa United. It's the 8th title in a row for the men from Pretoria securing the title with four games to spare. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has reaffirmed government's assertion that there is no genocide against white farmers in the country. Speaking to members of the media on the outcomes of cabinet's recent meeting, Ntshavheni added that the 49 alleged refugees who have relocated to the United States, made false and unfounded claims persecutions.
The African National Congress in Gauteng believes it's gradually moving towards the right direction in ensuring they improve in the upcoming 2026 local elections. The party's co-coordinator Panyaza Lesufi mentioned their satisfaction with recent by-elections results, where the party have won. Lesufi was speaking during a media briefing in Johannesburg, where the party outlined resolutions that were taken at the two-day Lekgotla that took place two weeks ago. He said they've been using the 2024 election machinery that they never dismantle and also followed on the post elections survey they conducted
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has dismissed claims that the country's HIV-AIDS programme is collapsing. Motsoaledi was addressing the media earlier from Pretoria where he outlined over fifteen facts and key events and programs that government has adopted since the US pulled support funding for the country through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, commonly known as PEPFAR. Dr Motsoaledi however admits that some jobs, funded by PEFAR has been lost but government continues to lead the fight against HIV/AIDS in the country. Here is a snippet of the MInister's address earlier...
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thami Ntuli has appealed to customers of Ithala Development Bank to continue supporting the financial institution, following a recent Pietermaritzburg High Court judgement. The judgement was handed down earlier this week, after Ithala had sought an urgent court interdict against the Repayment Administrator's instruction in January, that Ithala's ABSA accounts be frozen. Speaking to the latest development's on the bank, Ntuli also highlighted the importance of investing in and supporting the institution as a symbol of provincial pride. Sakina Kamwendo spoke SABC reporter, Khalesakhe Mbense
The R255-million asbestos roof replacement tender case has returned to the High Court in Bloemfontein, Free State. This after the state witness fell sick last week. Judge Phillip Loubser was expected to deliver a ruling on whether other defense lawyers in the Asbestos case can cross examine the state witness. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Kamogelo Seekoei
The Communications and Digital Technologies Department has lauded the current SABC board for its efforts towards stabilising the institution. The department, SABC executives and board members are currently briefing parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts, on the public broadcaster's audit outcomes and financial performance. The department's Deputy Minister, Mondli Gungubele earlier said that since the introduction of the current board, the SABC has shown a significant improvement in its governance. Speaking on what the entity has spent its R3.2 billion bail out on, SABC Board Member, Phathiswa Magopeni says it is important to note that the majority of funds have gone into keeping the entity afloat.
Mamelodi Sundowns need just a point to secure their 8th Premiership title in a row and their 18th in total. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The United National Transport Union (Untu) says it is committed to finding lasting solutions to the current wage dispute with Transnet in order to avert an industrial action that could see over 26-thousand of its members down tools. The two parties are engaging at the Commission of Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in order to find a solution to the wage impasse. A strike action could disrupt port operations at a time when government is trying to turn around the cash-strapped state owned rail and ports operator. Untu however warns that negotiating in bad faith will not yield the desired results for everyone involved. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Untu's general secretary, Cobus Van Vuuren...
Members of the Public Servants Association (PSA) in Kimberley who have been suspended by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, say their suspension was unlawful. This is after they blew a whistle on some allegedly fraudulent transactions at the department, which include a matter currently before court implicating the Chief Financial Officer, former Head Of Department and another official. Tebogo Msimanga compiled the following report
Electricity and Energy Minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says Eskom is doing its best to manage the national grid as demand for energy increases during winter. This after the power utility implemented stage two rolling blackouts yesterday. This due to a combination of factors, including delays in returning generation units from planned maintenance, unexpected capacity losses, and high-than-expected demand. Despite this, Ramokgopa says Eskom's power system is in a significantly stronger position than it was during the same period last year. He briefed the media earlier in Pretoria ...
Nigerian televangelist, Timothy Omotoso, has been released by the East London Regional court, in the Eastern Cape, where was appearing. Omotoso was arrested at the weekend on charges relating to his alleged contravention of the country's immigration Act. For more on this, we are joined on the line by SABC News Reporter, Lubabalo Dada...
Immense workloads and the inherent risk of death are some of the factors that affects the mental health of members of the South African Police Service. This is according to mental health experts. Police Unions say these factors exacerbate the mental health challenges of their members. Horisani Sithole reports
The National Dialogue Preparatory Committee believes that the resolutions that will emanate from the blueprint of the national compact, will chart a new path for South Africa's unity project. The thirty-year plan of action will be the road map that takes the country forward for the next three decades, and will address social, economic, governance and constitutional issues.The committee briefed the media on the process leading up to the national dialogue, starting off with a national convention that will take place in two months' time. Last Year, former President, Thabo Mbeki made a clarion call for the country to hold a national dialogue to redefine South Africa's future. Sibahle Motha reports
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing allegations of sexual harrassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenge has been adjourned. This is to allow evidence leader, Advocate Salome Scheepers an opportunity to furnish a summary of evidence by gender expert Lisa Vetten to Judge President Mbenenge's legal team. Earlier on, chairperson of the tribunal, reitred Judge President Bernard Ngoepe had ruled that Vetten's evidence should be heard by tribunal. Judge President Ngoepe explains...
A group of 49 Afrikaner "refugees" has arrived at Dulles International Airport just outside Washington D.C. to a warm welcome from senior officials of the U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security. The group of white South Africans departed Johannesburg overnight and arrived in the United States via Dakar Senegal. They are the first beneficiaries of U.S. refugee status after President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order in February seeking to address so called "Egregious actions of the Republic of South Africa". Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports ....
Orlando Pirates come off the loss against Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final and need to lift their spirits, as they face Golden Arrows. It's going to be tough as it's Jose Riveiro's last game as coach. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The unemployment rate for the first quarter of the year 2025 has worsened to 32,9 percent, an increase of a 1.0 percent from the last quarter of last year. This was announced a short while ago by the Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke in Tshwane. Maluleke notes that a total of 291-thousand were lost since the fourth quarter of 2024. Discouraged work-seekers increased by 7 000 and the number of persons who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 177 000 between the fourth quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025. StatsSA's Maluleke elaborates further...
The trial-within-a-trial in the 255 million rand asbestos roof removal case, has been postponed to Wednesday following the illness of one of the state's witnesses. Judge Phillip Loubser was expected to deliver a ruling on whether defense lawyers can cross examine the state witness. This comes after Laurence Hodes, who is the legal representative of former Free State premier, Ace Magashule, informed the court that he also wanted to cross examine the state witness. Moroadi Cholota, who is the former PA of Magashule, is also challenging the legality of her extradition from the United States. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ismail Modiba
Various political parties together with religious groups have gathered outside the East London Regional Court in the Eastern Cape televangelist, Timothy Omotoso is expected to make his court appearance. Omotoso was arrested at the weekend on charges of contravening the provisions of the Immigration Act. FSakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sidima Mfeku...
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing sexual harassments allegations levelled against Eastern Cape Judge President, Selby Mbenenge has just started to focus on new CCTV footage which has been brought forward. Mbenenge stands accused by his former secretary, Andiswa Mengo who alleges that she was harrassed by Judge President Mbenege via in-person interaction and electronic communication between June 2021 and November 2022. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Canny Maphanga
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has called on all African countries to work together and deal with conflicts and coups on the continent. He says the African Union needs to do more to address the many challenges facing the continent. Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Kagame says regardless of the challenges, efforts must be made to finding lasting peace.
International Relations Minister, Ronald Lamola has reaffirmed South Africa's position that a group of white Afrikaners who have gone to the United States, claiming prosecution, does not qualify for refugee status. The group is set to arrive in the US today, following a decision by the administration of President Donald Trump, to grant them refugee status. Speaking during a media briefing on the country's preparations for this year's G20 leaders summit, Lamola says the group has made a number of false claims...
Hosting the the "Soweto Derby" in Durban benefitted KwaZulu-Natal's coffers to the tune of R93 million. According to the KZN premier, hospitality, tourism, and entertainment sectors benefitted the most with township traders also cashing in on the razzmatazz that the event generated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke.
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), says they have discovered some serious corruption relating to the issuing of roadworthy certificate systems at vehicle testing stations in the country. OUTA SAYS corruption at these stations contributes to South Africa's high road accident rate, which costs the country over 2% of its GDP according to a report compiled by OUTA, which has now decided to go public with its investigation. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Rudie Heyneke, Senior Project Manager at OUTA
Orlando Pirates are the bookies favourites, as they prepare to face Kaizer Chiefs in the rivals' 12th match in a Nedbank Cup Final with three finals. The pair have met in 1971, 1981 and 1988, needing replays to decide a winner. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, expected to sign memoranda of understanding with three municipalities, in an effort to improve infrastructure delivery at local government level. The signing of the MOUs follows a decision taken at the Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Council to embark on this pilot project. Following a meeting late last year, the council had identified a number of priority areas, including the 19 Completed Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) valued at R26 billion, of those projects, 6 were in the Transport sector, 3 in in the Water and Sanitation, 1 in the Energy sector, and the rest were in the Human settlements and Student accommodation sectors. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson.
Constable Cebekhulu Linda is being buried today in Bloemforntein in the Free State. Constable Cebekhulu Linda was among the three constables whose bodies were retrieved from the Hennops river in Centurion, Pretoria, a week ago. Family and friends have described constable Cebekhulu Linda as a person who was destined for greatness. They say from a young age he was tasked with responsibilities which he carried out with diligence. His funeral service is under way at the St Rose Catholic Church in Bochabela in Bloemfontein. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Kamohelo Tsotetsi
The families of journalist Aserie Ndlovu's partner Zodwa Mdhluli are pinning their hopes on the DNA tests to be conducted on the remains found in the bushes in Limpopo to determine if they are those of their loved ones. Police recovered the remains believed to be those of the missing couple in Rust de Winter in Limpopo. The couple has been missing since February. Police say one of the five people arrested for the couple's disappearance led them to the area where the remains were found. The five are expected to appear in the KwaMhlanga Magistrate's Court in Mpumalanga today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mdhluli's son, Treasure and SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
The Joshlin Smith kidnapping case has been postponed to the 23rd of this month, when it will be transferred from the Western Cape High Court to Saldanha Bay for mitigation and aggravation of sentence. Sentencing procedures will begin on the 27th of this month. Judge Nathan Erasmus made the announcement this morning in the High Court, where the girl's mother Kelly Smith and co-accused appeared. Last week Smith, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn were found guilty on both charges of kidnapping and human trafficking. The six-year-old girl went missing from her home in Saldanha Bay in February last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Andile Mbanjwa.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) says it will pursue full prosecution of Daybreak for abandonment, neglect, and unnecessary cruelty of animals. This comes after it the NSPCA culled over 200-thousand chickens at poultry farm operated by Daybreak Foods near Delmas, Mpumalanga. The chickens were severely neglected, left without feed for days, resulting in mass cannibalism. The state owned poultry company is grappling with significant financial constraints that have hindered its operational capabilities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NSPCA spokesperson, Jacques Peacock
National Police Commissioner, General Fanie Masemola has thanked Constable Boipelo Senoge for her dedication in serving her country through the SAPS. He spoke at her funeral held at St. Peter Anglican church at Rocklands in Bloemfontein. Senoge was stationed in Parkweg Police station in Bloemfontein since July 2024.Constable Senoge died alongside two of her colleagues - Costables Cebekhulu Linda and Keabetswe Buys. The bodies of the three officers were recovered from the Hennops River at Centurion, (Gauteng) last week after they had gone missing on the 23rd of April. They were last seen by their families when they left their homes in Bloemfontein travelling to their area of deployment in Limpopo. However the search for the three constables reached a tragic end this week when the first two bodies were found while the third body was recove shortly after. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Kamohelo Tsotetsi who is following the story for us...
Hawks Head, General Godfrey Lebeya says operations are underway to clamp down on the rise in cases of kidnapping for ransom in South Africa. Speaking members of the media during an update on the unit's activities for the fourth quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year, Lebeya said a total of 24 kidnapping for ransom cases had been reported to the period in question.
Afrikaans, one of South Africa's 12 official languages, turns 100 years old today. It was officially recognised as a language distinct from Dutch in 1925. With roots stretching across continents and cultures, the language has long been at the centre of South Africa's cultural, political and educational landscape. But its future continues to stir debate, particularly in light of recent changes to the language policy in schools. Sisipho Ngcumbe filed this report.
The Pretoria High Court is today expected to make a ruling in the 20 years illegal cigarettes trading allegation against Hennie Delport by SARS. The R264 million case is against Delport for allegedly claiming false VAT and exercise duties from Sars resumes in the High Court in Pretoria today. Delport has cited collusion between the South African Revenue Service (Sars) and British American Tobacco (BAT) to shut him down. In 2007, SARS allegedly obtained a R300 million asset forfeiture court order against Delport and the other members of the alleged syndicate. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nosipho Radebe...
The SA National Editors Forum - SANEF - says it hopes the criminal case against four suspects arrested in connection with the disappearance of journalist and his partner will result in the couple being found. National Press Club committee member Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhuli have been missing since February. On Sunday police arrested four people - one of them was the last person to be in the company of the missing couple. Three are expected to appear in the Kwa-Mhlanga Magistrates Court in Mpumalanga today. SANEF's Sbu Ngalwa...
Former Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo, says he is doubtful whether Parliament had put in place measures to prevent corruption from taking place, as per the recommendations from the Zondo commission. He delivered the keynote address at the four day 15th Commonwealth Regional conference for heads of Anti Corruption Agencies in Africa, taking place in Cape Town. Zondo chaired the commission of inquiry into state capture, from 2018 to 2022. Among others, the commission found that Parliament failed in its duty to effectively hold the executive accountable during the period of state capture. Addressing delegates today, Zondo reflected on whether the country's fight against corruption is better than before the commission or not. He added that he is doubtful whether Parliament has made progress to introduce measures to strengthen anti corruption systems... Zalene Merrington reports
The election of a new Pope is currently underway in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. Catholic cardinals from all over the world have gathered behind closed doors casting their votes for a new Pope. The election comes after the passing of Pope Francis last month after suffering from stroke and heart failure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in Rome, Trent Murray
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing sexual harassment allegations against the Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge continues. The evidence leader is still calling witnesses to the stand as the probe continues in Sandton , Johannesburg. Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge faces a landmark Judicial Conduct Tribunal following serious allegations of sexual harassment by judges' secretary Andiswa Mengo. Mengo testified earlier this year about feeling intimidated due to the power imbalance, saying Judge President Mbenenge had significant influence over her employment, causing deep fear in the workplace. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga
The Democratic Alliance in Johannesburg claims the City of Johannesburg is in a state of total collapse. The party has cited among others the crumbling infrastructure, potholes, broken traffic lights, electricity and water supply problems. The DA's Johannesburg Caucus briefed the media in Johannesburg on what it believes is the True State of the City. This comes as Johannesburg mayor councillor, Dada Morero prepares to deliver the State of the City Address in Bramfontein tomorrow.
A joint memorial service for the three police constables whose bodies were retrieved from the Hennops River in Centurion last week is taking place at the Bobbies Park in Bloemfontein this afternoon. National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola and Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae are expected to attend the service. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ishmael Modiba
The South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU) has called on the City of Ekurhuleni to discontinue disciplinary action against nearly 400 metropolitan police officers over an unprotected strike. A dispute over salary adjustments and over-time compensation sparked the strike which took place in March. The city says it has issued pre-dismissal notices to 389 officers for misconduct. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Ekurhuleni Spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini
A stand-off ensued between City of Johannesburg officials and business operators believed to have illegally occupied a six-story building in the inner city. City officials are trying to evict the business people from the building. The City says the business operators are not paying any money to lease the property. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Mbalenhle Mthethwa
A new committee has been appointed to gauge and research impact funding or the lack thereof following the recent cuts that the United States has made to its federal research budgets, some of which affect South Africa. This is according to South Africa's science Minister Blade Ndimande who told Members of Parliament that a "deeply concerning" 2 billion rand of South African research money is at risk after US president Donald Trump began slashing federal research funding, sending shockwaves through the global research community. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Veli Mbele, Spokesperson for the Science and Technology Department.
Eskom has promised South Africans a stable electricity supply in the winter months to come. Speaking at a media briefing at Megawatt Park on Monday, energy minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said the interventions that have been implemented at Eskom have put the utility in a position where driving energy stability has taken priority.
Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu says the procurement process was not followed when 22 laptops were bought by the provincial Department of Education. He says the devices, that allegedly cost over two-million-rand, were also not in a good condition and of lesser quality. Ndlovu said the money spent on the laptops would be recovered from the service providers that allegedly connived with departmental officials and they will also be blacklisted nationally and provincially. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director General of the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, MAGGIE SKOSANA...
The South African men and New Zealand's women won the Rugby Sevens World Championship 2025 titles last night. The Blitzboks beat Spain 19-5 in the men's final while New Zealand's Black Ferns added to their trophy haul with a 31-7 victory over Australia in the women's final. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Argument in mitigation and aggravation of sentence is expected to be heard from Friday next week in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping and trafficking case. Earlier Judge Nathan Erasmus found Kelly Smith and her co-accused guilty of kidnapping and trafficking of Smith's daughter. The Western Cape High Court sitting at Saldhana found that the state proved beyond reasonable doubt that Smith, her boyfriend, JacquenAppollis and their friend Steveno van Rhyn sold the then six -year old girl for the purposes of exploitation. Justice Nathan Erasmus handed down the judgement...
Soweto Derby is tomorrow, a league encounter ahead of the Nedbank Cup final next weekend in Durban. Orlando Pirates midfielder Bandile Shandu was asked is he feels that the fight for the league title has ended. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The South African Police has confirmed that the body part of the VW polo that was pulled out of the Hennops River on Thursday, is indeed the car that the three police officers were travelling in last week when they went missing. This after evidence of a white handbag containing items such as a charger, black wallet and sets of keys – A service handbook has also been retrieved. National SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says the VIN number matches the body parts found last night.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says that he will announce the names of the people who will lead the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the delays encountered in investigating and prosecuting TRC cases. This follows his announcement yesterday, that a commission of inquiry will be established. Ramaphosa says that government would like the families of the victims who were affected by apartheid era crimes to find closure. Ramaphosa was speaking to the media in Middelburg, Mpumalanga after the May day celebrations that took place at the KeesTaljaard Stadium.
Two road lanes on the M1 South have been affected today at the Smit Street exit in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. This is due to a cable fire under the overpass. It is reported that the underground fire caused major traffic delays from this morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) Spokesperson, Xolani Fihla
it's a a 6-point match for Sekhukhune as Stellies play their game in hand and could move up to third with a win. Stellenbosch coach, Steve Barker was asked how his side are able to maintain their high performance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has announced a new budget date. The revised budget will be tabled on the 21st May 2025. This follows a court challenge that the Democratic Alliance and Economic Freed Fighters had brought in the country's High Court in the Western Cape Province, in opposition of his proposed hike in the country's Value Added Tax. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to economics and political commentator, Khaya Sithole
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal has reserved its decision in relation to complaints lodged by ten judges of the Western Cape High Court and the Cape Bar Council against Judge Mushtak Parker. Judge Parker is facing allegations of lying under oath and lying by deposing to an affidavit which stated that he was physically assaulted allegedly by the then Judge President John Hlophe - who has since been impeached. The tribunal earlier noted that Judge Parker has failed by participate in the tribunal and has offered no apology nor has he disputed the allegations levelled against him. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga...
The state in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping and human trafficking case, has repeatedly argued that the little girl was sold for the purpose of exploration. This, as closing arguments are underway in the Western Cape High Court sitting in Saldanha, on the West Coast. Jacquen Appollis, Steveno van Rhyn and Kelly Smith are on trial in connection with Joshlin's disappearance from her home in Saldanha Bay in February last year. SABC Reporter, Andile Mbanjwa reports....
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has welcomed the ruling by the Western Cape High Court to set aside the Value Added Tax increase and the fiscal framework in favour of the DA and the EFF. Kieswetter has urged consumers to be vigilant that their invoices show 15% VAT and not more than that. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Consumer Goods Council of SA CEO, Zinhle Tyikwe
The families of the three missing police officers have arrived in Pretoria for the identification process, following the retrieval of three bodies at the Hennops River in Centurion. The bodies are of two males and one female. The three officers went missing last week while travelling from Bloemfontein to Limpopo where the two of the three had been deployed. The search for the second female body and the car they were travelling in is ongoing. Chriselda Lewis spoke to National Police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe
Chris Eubank Jr has been discharged from hospital after he was admitted as a precaution following his victory over Conor Benn on Saturday. Eubank was admitted as part of a standard procedure for boxers after a grueling bout, with promoter Ben Shalom saying he was having "precautionary checks". Eubank beat Benn by unanimous decision in a 12-round middleweight fight in London. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The Border Management Authority says it considers the 2025 Easter operations of border control as successful due to the introduction of technological advancements such as the use of drones and body cameras. BMA's Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato was addressing the media a short while ago reporting and outlining the movemnt statistics and interceptions at Port of Entry during the Easter Period. He adds that the movement of people at the country's borders recorded record breaking numbers not seen since the outbreak of the COVID 19 global outbreak...
Table Mountain National Park has been ravaged with wildfire in the Silvermine section of the Park. The fire is said to have intensified significantly due the wind direction speed. Some individuals in both the east and west sections of Silvermine were asked to evacuate the area. The fire is now actively spreading down the left flank toward Tokai and Zwaanswyk, and the right flank is also moving in the direction of the Noordhoek and Clovelly area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse
Liverpool's long wait ended as the giant red and white clock in the corner of the Kop flicked over to 18:24 BST on the day that was Anfield's destiny.
The small detail was Tottenham Hotspur had been swept aside. The big picture was Liverpool were now officially Premier League champions and, with great significance, had equalled Manchester United's total of 20 titles. As Liverpool's team coach emerged from plumes of red smoke blowing towards the stadium on Anfield Road, the smell of sulphur and cordite hanging heavy in the air, the banners and scarves read: "The Most Successful Club In England." This was a moment 35 years in the making. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The EFF is currently addressing the media briefing shortly following a decision of the Western Cape High Court to suspend the VAT hike announcement of 0.5 percent which made last month. The High Court has also ruled to set aside the resolution of the National Assembly adopting the report of the Joint Standing Committee on Finance on the Fiscal Framework and Revenue proposals adopted. This means that there will be now VAT hike on the 1st of May. For more, let us now take you line into the EFF briefing...on the podium is EFF president, Julius Malema
The community of Eldorado Park, in Johannesburg, has called for government to intervene in what locals have called the triple threat of rampant drug abuse, crime and unemployment. The community is currently engaging the top brass of national police, in a ministerial imbizo that aims to shine a light on crime prevention in the area. The officials, led by Deputy Minister, Cassel Mathale, have convened at a local community centre, where they aim to create a platform for effective interaction between police leadership and communities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Chairperson of the Eldorado Park Community Policing Forum, Dominique Palmer.
Al Ahly has been granted full-capacity approval for the match. Egyptian authorities have capped attendance at CAF matches to a maximum of 30,000 fans. But Al Ahly appealed to their Ministry of Sport after their officials emphasised the significance of the match and the potential impact of an electrifying crowd on the outcome. As a result, the Cairo International Stadium will host a capacity crowd of 75,000 fans for this high-stakes encounter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The author of two books on the life and death of former ANC President, Chief Albert Luthuli is expected to continue his testimony today, at the Pietermaritzburg High Court. During his testimony yesterday, Jabulani Mzaliya described Luthuli as a unifier, adding that the late leader wore many hats, including those of a Christian, a politician , a farmer and a father. The academic is testifying in the inquest into the circumstances surrounding Luthuli's death in July 1967, reportedly after he was struck by a goods train. . For more on this, we are joinened on the line by SABC Reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
Eskom CEO, Dan Marokane says high levels of maintenance coupled with high demand was the reason for the stage two load shedding which was implemented yesterday. The Power Utility has since suspended the rolling blackouts due to the recovery of more than two-thousand megawatts of generation capacity and sufficient emergency emergency reserves. Eskom's leadership is currently briefing parliament's portfolio committee on electricity and energy. Company CEO Dan Marokane says he will take the country into full confidence in a matter of days in relation to Eskom's plan for the winter season...
Political parties continue to react to the reversal of a 0.5 VAT increase that was announced by the National Treasury earlier today. The ANC, together with several other parties which include the IFP, ActionSA, the PAC, the GOOD Party are currently engaging with members of the media in Sandton, North of Johannesburg. The group, which in includes members of the Government of National Unity say the VAT increase withdrawal is a victory for all parties which were engaged in critical discussions over the last few weeks. ANC secretary general, Fikila Mbalula says the terrain of coalitions and a Government of unity continue to be a lesson for the ANC. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF Spokesperson, Sinawo Tambo and economist, Xhanti Payi
President Cyril Ramaphosa is hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy is on his first official visit to South Africa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
The fire at the Tembisa Provincial Tertiary Hospital has been contained. This follows yet another fire incident at the Hospital, East of Johannesburg early this morning. Firefighters are still on the scene. Gauteng Health Department spokesperson, Motaletale Modiba says investigations are still ongoing
Durban City midfielder, Sinamandla Zondi died suddenly following a Motsepe Foundation Championship match last night. In the match at Chatsworth Stadium against Milford FC, Zondi collapsed while playing. The match was immediatley suspended as the player received medical assistance. Despite best efforts, it's also believed that the player died before he made it to the hospital. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Reporter, Jon Gericke
The South African Weather Services issued a level two and level five weather warnings for all six local municipalities under Amathole District Municipality. The warning includes heavy rains and may be life threatening. A man has narrowly escaped being swept away after attempting to cross an overflowing bridge at a village which falls under the Butterworth-based Mnquma Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sidima Mfeku
The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) says it supports the call for an investigation into the procurement of 22 laptops at a cost of approximately two million rand through an alleged SITA contract. The entity says the investigation must shed light on many procurements related questions that have yet to be answered, following the purchase, which was made by the Mpumalanga Department of Basic Education. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SITA Head of Corporate Affairs, Tlali Tlali
The Western Cape High Court is currently hearing an application by the DA and the EFF that is aimed at blocking the 0.5 percentage point VAT increase tabled by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana. Both parties say the VAT increase will intensify the country's cost of living and hit the poor the hardest. They also propose that other alternatives instead of increasing VAT, such as cutting a bloasted government. Senior Counsel and Advocate, Michael Bishop representing the DA, representing the DA says the party is opposing the processes Parliament followed in its decision on the fiscal framework
Suspended Netball South Africa president, Cecilia Molokwane, has excused herself from a meeting between the federation and Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture scheduled for this morning. Molokwane who is serving a second term as president, was suspended from all netball related activities by World Netball this weekend. Molokwane has not reacted to her suspension in person, but in a letter addressed to the committee, she said she believed in due process and would defend all allegations levelled against her. The letter was read out by the acting Director General of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Dr Cynthia Khumalo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke...
The Vatican says Pope Francis' funeral will be held on Saturday at St Peter's Basilica. The dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, will lead the service. At the end of the funeral, the Pope's body will be moved to St Mary Major for the burial. Pope Francis died yesterday at the age of 88 following weeks of poor health. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Communications Officer for the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference (SACBC) Sheila Pires
The trial of the 5 men accused of the 2014 murder of soccer star, Senzo Meyiwa has been postponed to the 5th of May 2025. The postponement was requested by defence counsel, Charles Mnisi, who cited his lack of readiness to proceed with today's business. Mnisi's request comes a week after the court stated that he had been given a final postponement after the two month adjournment to allow him to prepare for recent representations. SABC News Reporter, Pearl Magubane has more....
A recent study conducted by Stellenbosch University has revealed a worrying crisis brewing within South Africa's (SA) teaching profession. Half of all teachers surveyed are considering leaving the profession within the next decade, citing burnout, administrative overload, and a lack of mental health support as key drivers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to to senior researcher and co-author of the report, Irene Pampallis
Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy together with her deputy, Mkhuleko Hlengwa are interacting with drivers at Kranskop on the N1 as travelers head back to their destinations following the Easter Weekend. Creecy is encouraging drivers to remain vigilant and drive safety in order to arrive safely. She also notes that it remains concerning that a drunk driver attempted to bribe a traffic officer and will be appearing in court on Tuesday. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC Reporters, Fanele Mhlongo and Motsebi Monareng
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died. He was 88, and had recently survived a serious bout of double pneumonia. His death comes after he appeared at the Vatican's St Peter's Square yesterday to wish "Happy Easter" to thousands of worshippers. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Father Russel Pollit a parish priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Braamfontein
All Serie A matches set to take place on Monday (April 21) have been postponed, as per an official statement. Serie A posted a statement on their social media channels to confirm that the scheduled fixtures – Torino vs Udinese, Cagliari vs Fiorentina, Genoa vs Lazio and Parma vs Juventus – will no longer take place due to the death of Pope Francis
Over six hundred law enforcement officers in Mpumalanga are hard at work, doing 24-hour shifts, monitoring the movement of people and goods at the Lebombo Border Post with Mozambique. Traffic volumes have been on the surge on most of the province's roads including the N4 toll road and the N12. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng
Both Richards Bay and Cape Town City are on 24 points, just one spot from bottom with Richards Bay having a game in hand. With the relegation process still unknown, expect some fireworks as the teams look to score points. SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
The South African National Space Agency (Sansa) weather centre says a solar storm that hit planet Earth recently, has impacted satellite navigation systems in South Africa. Based on data from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a Severe-class solar storm hit on Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SANSA Space Weather Forecaster, Salma Khan
Holidaymakers have been urged not to accept help from anyone at ATMs as bank card scamming is likely to be on the rise this Easter Long Weekend. People may have their cards cloned or swapped, or tapped if they are not vigilant enough. According to the Banking Sector, criminals targets least busy ATMs at filling stations and city centres. People are advised not accept any help from strangers, as it could lead to them loosing their hard earned money. reports
The Putco Bus Company has partnered with the SAPS and traffic officials to ensure safe journeys for over two-million ZCC pilgrims that are expected in Moria over this Easter weekend. The company has dispatched 500 buses to accommodate pilgrims heading to Moria. For more on this we are now joined on the line by Putco Bus spokesperson, Lindokuhle Xulu...
Tottenham have lost five of their last seven knockout stage away games in all UEFA competitions. Spurs boss, Ange Postacoglu. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tottenham lose 5th of last 7 knockout stage away UEFA games
Chaos has gripped Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, as two learners were stabbed at two separate schools in Orange Farm in the south of Johannesburg this week. Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has warned that any learner found to be involved in gang-related violence will be suspended. . The incidents have sparked fear, outrage and frustration in the community. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg MMC for Development Planning, Eunice Mgcina and Gauteng Education Spokesperson, Steve Mabona.
The young women who testified against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso during his trial - say they feel let down by the justice system. Omotoso and his two co-accused were found not guilty on all 32 charges including rape, human trafficking and racketeering by the High Court in Gqeberha last week. Speaking during a media briefing held by the CRL Rights Commission in Johannesburg earlier today, some of Omotoso's accusers say they fear for their safety. CRL Rights Commission Chairperson, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva say the case has had far-reaching consequences
Police are investigating a murder case in Sophiatown, Johannesburg. This comes after a 60-year-old scholar transport driver was shot and killed this morning. The man had just dropped off schoolchildren at Christiaan De Wet Primary school. A relative of a scholar transport driver who was gunned down says the incident has traumatised her. Lucia Smith says the deceased was her brother.
The Transport Department has vowed to increase law enforcement visibility at night and early mornings ahead of the Easter long weekend. This has travelers have already started to embark on journeys to their respective destinations for the first term holidays. Numerous traffic road blocks have been ongoing since the start of this week to ensure safe driving, roadworthiness of vehicles and combat speeding, overloading and drinking and driving. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa
Higher Education Minister, Nobuhle Nkabane is scheduled to visit the family of the Walter Sisulu University student who was killed during a protest. Yesterday Nkabane apologised to the students of Walter Sisulu University as well as the family of the student, after the university issued a statement saying that the deceased waas not a registered student nor a staff member at the university. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
Stellenbosch's win over AmaZulu last night came at a cost with Ashley Cupido expected to be out for "a minimum of six weeks" duer to a hamstring injury. The striker will miss this week's trip to Zanzibar for the Confederation Cup semifinal against Simba FC. Cupido was replaced by South Africa U20 forward Langelihle Phili but he will have Amajita duty in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations competition in Egypt from the 26th.
Barker was pleased to announce that inspirational captain and goalkeeper Sage Stephens would be available for the CAF semifinal. Stephens was rested for Tuesday's night Premiership clash due to a minor injury. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
Former Free State Premier, Ace Magashule has pleaded not guilty to all the charges brought against him at the Free State High Court. Magashule, a former secretary general of the ANC was expelled by the party in June 2023 after refusing to abide by the party's instruction of step aside while he was formally criminally charged. He, together with 14 others stand accused of corruption, fraud and money laundering. Earlier on, Magashule, standing as accused number 13, reiterated that he remains innocent as publicly declared before
The Film and Publications Board (FPB) says its working towards getting access into the dark web space to prevent illegal activities including the child pornography trade. Yesterday, the FPB briefed the Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade on harmful content brought by social media and other online platforms and measures to counter them. The FPB is a statutory online content regulator which exists to protect the public against harmful and prohibited content including content that incites violence and advocates hatred. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting chief executive officer of FPB, Ephraim Tlhako
City Power officials, together with their technicians have returned to Alexandra township, North of Johannesburg to continue cutting off illegal electricity connections. The power Utility says this is part of efforts to curb electricity theft and ensure community safety whilst improving service delivery. The operation is supported by law enforcement agencies and remains peaceful while local residents watch in disbelief. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Xoliswa Makhikhi
Accused number two in the Joshlin Smith disappearance case, Steveno Van Rhyn, has told the High Court that he was assaulted repeatedly by police officers following his arrest. Van Rhyn has testifying in the trial-within-a-trial hearing which seeks to determine the admissibility confession statements made by himself and accused, Jacquen Appollis. Van Rhyn says he was taken to the Sea Boarder offices in March last year, where he was hanged in between two chairs and handcuffed. He says a plastic bag was placed over his head and he was severely assaulted. For more on this, we are joined on the line by SABC Reporter, Andile Mbanjwa.
The Constitutional Court has dismissed, with costs, the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) political party and Dr. John Hlophe's bid to appeal the interim interdict that bars him from serving on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The court , in an order dated 15 April - refused the application for leave to appeal as "no case has been made out for a direct appeal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga
Two men accused of the murder of alleged Western Cape underworld figure and businessman, Mark Lifman, have made a brief appearance at the George Magistrate's Court. Lifman was gunned down in the parking lot of the Garden Route mall in November while on trial with several co-accused including alleged gang boss Jerome Booysen, on a raft of charges. He was scheduled to appear in the High Court the next day on charges relating to the murder of steroid smuggler, Brian Wainstein. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, SABC reporter, Tanya Krause
President Cyril Ramaphosa is on an oversight visit to the Eastern Cape over the next two days where he will engage with the Provincial Executive Committee and check on infrastructural developments and investments at the Port of Ngqura in Gqeberha. The Port is one of the country's newest deep water ports designed for high-efficient container handling and large vessels. Plans on fighting increasing crime levels involving extortion, decaying municipal infrastructure and continuing unemployment are some of the local issues the president may also be given updates on. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Sisipho Ngcembe and researcher and the Head of Monitoring and Advocacy Program at the Public Service Accountability Monitor, Zukiswa Kota
The kidnapping and human trafficking trial in the Joshlin Smith case has resumed in the Cape High Court, sitting in Saldanha Bay. A trial-within-a-trial is continuing over the admissibility of confession statements of two of the accused. The pair is claiming that police tortured and coerced them into giving the so-called confessions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Andile Mbanjwa
All 18 accused in the 255 million rand Asbestos roof removal fraud and corruption case are back in the Free State High Court for trial. The accused include several business affiliates of former Free State Premier Ace Magashule, former MEC for Human Settlement Olly Mlamleli and businessman Edwin Sodi. The commencement of the much-anticipated trial follows lengthy postponements and applications to have charges dismissed by Magashule and two other suspects, including Edwin Sodi and Thabane Zulu. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ishmael Modiba
Stellies will move up to third with a win and still have games in hand over their nearest rivals. After a poor run, AmaZulu bounced back with a win a a couple of weeks ago but the Cape Side are firm favourites. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports News Anchor, Jon Gericke
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mcebisi Jonas as his Special Envoy to the United States of America, serving as the official representative of the President and the government of the Republic of South Africa. In this role, Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa's diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will now lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation's interests. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Presidency's Spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya
The Community of Eersterust, East of Pretoria has vowed to shutdown the township from today over poor service delivery. The action is in retaliation to especially a lack of street lights. The community's anger reached boiling point this past week after a young man was recently hijacked and killed in front of his house. The community blame the lack of streets lights which they claim have rendered them vulnerable to opportunistic criminal activity, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Phumzle Mlangeni
The National Prosecutions Authority will be presenting evidence in the Pietermaritzburg High Court, to have the initial findings, into the deaths of iconic anti-apartheid figures Former ANC President, Generla Chief Luthuli, and renowned human rights lawyer, Griffiths Mxenge, overturned. This follows the reopening of inquests into the deaths of the two by the Director of Public Prosecutions in Kwazulu-Natal, Elaine Harrison. The purpose of inquests is to determine how a person died and if anyone should be held responsible for their death. Busi Bopela reports that the long awaited proceedings offer up the the promise of closure and healing to their families, as well as a South Africa's people a whole. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporters, Canny Maphanga and Dries Liebenberg
Former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has highlighted the protection of whistle-blowers as one of the measures to fight corruption in South Africa. Speaking at the Nelson Mandela University's Fisheries Law Enforcement Academy's Anti-corruption Conference, Zondo also highlighted the importance of whistleblowers in the fight for a corruption-free South Africa and the role of the Government of National Unity.
Protest marches across the country continue to call for justice for a seven year old girl from Matatiele in the Eastern Cape that was allegedly raped while at school. Students in Soweto will be embarking on a peaceful march from Vilakazi Street to Orlando Court then to Diepkloof police station to deliver their memorandum. Meanwhile, in Matatiele, several religious groups are holding a prayer session following reports on two other minors that were allegedly raped at another private school in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
One of the accused in the Joshlin Smith disappearance case has told the Western Cape High Court that men presumed to be police officers assaulted him in March last year. Jacquen Appollis is testifying in-a-trial-within-a-trial as the court tries to determine the admissibility of confession statements allegedly made by himself and Steveno Van Rhyn. The pair alleges that the men tortured them when they obtained their confessions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Andile Mbanjwa...
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu says he is happy with the outcomes of the National Policing Summit. The three-day summit was aimed at adapting policing strategies to a changing criminal landscape and enhancing crime-fighting methods. The summit saw delegates participating in robust engagements, providing candid feedback as well as constructive guidance in respect of the type of policing we should have in the country to effectively fight crime. Mchunu says necessary inclusive discussions were held....
GOOD Party Secretary General, Brett Herron says members of parliament who are part of the Government of National Unity seem confused about whether they are members of government or the opposition. Herron says this follows what he describes as a 'secret' trip by members of parliament in the GNU to Israel. He further alleges that the four MP's include two from the Democratic Alliance and another two from the Patriotic Alliance. Herron further questions the motive for the trip considering South Africa's posture in relation to the conflict in Gaza. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to GOOD Party Secretary General, Brett Herron
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber has unveiled a new tech to help the Border Management Authority combat corruption and tighten SA's border security. The upgrades include surveillance drones, body cameras for Border Management Authority (BMA) officers, and other advanced equipment designed to fight corruption and stop illegal border crossings. Dr Schreiber says four high-tech drones will be deployed to different border posts and rotated to other regions when needed.
Orlando Pirates joined Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions League semifinals.
Sundowns come up against Al Ahly while the the Bucaneers beat MC Alger 1-0 on aggregate to book a final four spot against another Cairo side, Pyramids. Pirates coach, Jose Riviera, faced the media after the post-match crowd troubles. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports Anchor, Jon Gericke
As the US import tariffs come into effect today, fruit growers have already expressed concern over exports. The Western Cape is said export billions of rands in fruit to the US annually. The Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has warned that the tariffs imposed by the US will hurt South African citrus farms and the rural communities. The CGA is calling on the South African government to prioritise immediate negotiations with the US on tariff reductions or exemptions on citrus, saying this is "urgently needed" to avoid job and revenue losses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gerrit van der Merwe, who is the Chairperson of the The Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa...
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber has called on voters to occupy the centre position of the country's electoral processes. He was delivering the opening address at the two day International Conference of the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel discussions currently ongoing in Boksburg on the East Rand of Gauteng. Electoral reforms that are up for discussion include ways to increase voter turnout and submissions by voters who want more direct participation on who voters send to parliament and provincial legislatures. This also includes submissions calling for the establishment mechanisms that would allow voters to recall poor-performing public representatives. Dr Schreiber however warns that reforms alone will not fix the country's challenges
President Cyril Ramaphosa says gender-based violence continues unabated across the world, even in countries with progressive laws advancing gender equality. Ramaphosa was addressing the International Association of Women Judges Conference (IAWJ) hosted in Cape Town. He says men should be in the forefront of the struggle because it's them (men) who violate women.
A joint operation with Johannesburg Water and City Power officials is currently underway in Hillbrow, Johannesburg. The entities are disconnecting illegal water and power connections in hijacked buildings. Theft and vandalism is said to have severely disrupted essential services resulting in the revenue loss for the city. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Joburg Water spokesperson, Nombuso Shabalala to tell us more about today's operation...
U.S. markets opened in positive territory today bringing a reprieve from the huge sell-off that has epitomized the last number of days in the wake of President Donald Trump's global tariff trawl. The slightly more positive sentiment is being put down to an indication from the White House that it was open to bilateral negotiations with some countries despite growing tensions between the world's largest two economies. China has rejected an ultimatum from Trump that it withdraws its retaliatory 34% tariff on U.S. goods by midnight tonight or face an additional 50% tariff on Chinese goods, which would take the U.S. levy on China to 104%. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The butting of heads and blame game have been identified as part of the challenges facing the country's criminal justice system at the second day of the National Police Forum currently underway in Ekurhuleni. The summit forms part of engagements to explore viable policing strategies in tackling crime in the country. Yesterday, President Cyril Ramaphosa called for measures to boost police morale while delivering his opening remarks of the summit. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Researcher at the Institute for Security Studies, Gareth Newham...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the reinforcement of a culture of honesty and integrity within the South African Police Service. He was speaking a short while ago at the opening of the inaugural police summit currently ongoing at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Gauteng. The three day summit is an attempt at addressing the country's high crime levels by reflecting on current policing approaches and developing more effective methods going forward. Ramaphosa says the morale of the men and women in blue needs to be lifted
ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula says a the party has not taken a decision on the future participation of the DA in Government of National Unity (GNU). This after DA, which is thie ANC's biggest GNU partner did not vote to support the fiscal policy framework last week. Various ANC officials have since called for the DA to exit the GNU stating that the party cannot play opposition and still want to remain in government. However, the DA has made it clear that the party is still committed to the GNU and open to a resolution on the current budget impasse. Briefing the media on the outcomes of the National Working Committee (NWC) meeting in Johannesburg today, Mbalula says the ANC will continue engaging with political parties.
The ANC's National Executive Committee will meet today to discuss the way forward regarding the government of national unity. This follows the passing of the budget last week where the key partner, the DA voted against. Deputy President Paul Mashatile has emphasised the importance of the GNU mandate to make South Africa work. He was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Legacy Business Breakfast in Illovo, Sandton, this morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Dr Ntsikelelo Breakfast
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is urging is residents along the Vaal River to remove valuable equipment, movable infrastructure and livestock, and evacuate to avoid damage or loss of life when the riverbanks overtop. The Department has opened a fifth sluice gate at the Vaal Dam in order to manage the rapidly increasing water levels due to heavy rainfall overnight in the catchment area. The DWS says controlled water releases aim to safeguard the dam's infrastructure and maintain full storage capacity after the rainfall season. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Water and Sanitation Spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for a group of gunmen who opened fire and killed three men, believed to be taxi marshals, in Mofolo Central, in Soweto. Johannesburg Metro Police and emergency services are currently at the scene of the shooting, where vehicles are being diverted away from the area. Motorists are advised to avoid using the junction of Machaba Drive and Mageza Street. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Lerato Makola
The Protea Magistrate's Court in Soweto has transferred the case against a man accused of raping and murdering a six-year-old girl, to the High Court in Johannesburg. Twety-four-year-old Mozambican national, Pethe Simiao was arrested last year and was charged with the kidnapping, rape, murder of the girl who disapppeared shortly before her remains were found. Simiao has also been charged with contravening the Immigration Act. SABC reporter, Lerato Makola filed this report....
A 36-year-old man is expected to appear before the Mahwelereng magistrate's court, in Limpopo, after he was arrested for allegedly raping his four-year-old niece. Limpopo police spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng, says the man allegedly raped his niece when the child's mother left her in his care at their home in Malepetleke village on Friday. SABC Reporter, Rendani Raliphaswa filed this report...
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola says the country is navigating the storm after United State's decision to impose a new 31% import tariff. The minister says the government is working tirelessly to secure favorable trade deals. by U.S. President Donald Trump that imposed 30% import tariffs on South African goods exported to the United States. Lamola says key sectors like automotive, agriculture, and manufacturing will be affected. Lamola explains
The University of KwaZulu-Natal, in partnership with the KZN Premier's Office, are briefing the media on the latest HIV cure research. Led by Professor Thumbi Ndungu, this groundbreaking trial Africa's first shows 20% of participants remain off antiretroviral therapy and are still virally suppressed after 18 months. The trial tested combination immunotherapy, boosting the immune system to control HIV without lifelong medication. Scientists say these findings could revolutionize future HIV treatments. Presented at a major U.S. conference, this research puts Africa at the forefront of global HIV cure efforts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Thumbi Ndungu - from UKZN and Africa health research institute
The application to disclose the investigation diary in the former National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula corruption case has been dismissed. Presiding Judge Mokhine Mosopa said that Mapisa-Nqakula failed to prove her case in the Pretoria High Court. Mapisa-Nqakula's defense lawyers argued that the disclosure of section C of the docket could lead to her exoneration from the corruption case. She is facing 12 charges of corruption and one of money laundering during her tenure as Defense Minister. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sibahle Motha, SABC reporter
The Human Settlements minister, Thembi Simelane, says several system failures led to the collapsed building in George in May last year. The collapse, that took place during construction, caused 34 deaths and dozens of injuries. Briefing Parliament's Human Settlements committee on the report that followed an investigation, Simelane says an almost 300 page report details several lapses in the construction process...
The News and Current Affairs Show, hosted by award-winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, presents another weekly feature with Martin Creamer, the publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly.
The uMkhonto we Sizwe Party has snatched from the African National Congress, ward 28 in KwaDukuza, in KwaZulu-Natal's iLembe District Municipality. The ward became vacant when Vishnugopal Govender resigned as ANC ward councilor, and contested the by-election as an MK Party candidate. He received 62 per cent of the votes. Candidates from the ANC, Inkatha Freedom Party, Economic Freedom Fighters and the MK Party contested the ward. For a look at what this means, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Researcher, Maswele Ralebone.
ActionSA caucus leader, Athol Trollip, says the party will not support the African National Congress if their input continues not to yield fruit. Speaking to members of the media, earlier today, Trollip emphasised that the party is resolute in its resistance of a VAT increase or tax bracket creep in the 2025 budget. This after the National Assembly's adoption of the Fiscal Framework yesterday. The was adopted with recommendations - made by ActionSA - that Treasury must be given 30 days to come up with alternatives to tax hikes. Trollip says ANC can not make unilateral decisions, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF Spokesperson, Sinawo Tambo and Analyst at the Centre for Risk Analysis, Carika Middelberg.
The Eastern Cape High Court, sitting in Gqeberha, has found Nigerian televangelist, Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, not guilty on all charges against them. The court dismissed the state's case against Omotoso, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, following a trial spanning over 8 years. The accused faced 32 charges including rape, human trafficking and racketeering, after Omotoso was arrested at the Chief Dawid Stuurman airport in 2018 on rape and other charges. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Sisipho Ngcumbe
Eleven people, eight of who are employees of the South African Social Security Agency, are expected to apply for bail in the Lenasia Magistrate's Court, in Johannesburg. The accused were arrested after being implicated in a 260-million-rand fraud syndicate operating within the social security. The state alleges that the accused created fake profiles and used these to withdraw funds from SASSA pay points. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
U.S President Donald Trump is expected to impose sweeping new reciprocal tariffs on global trading partners TODAY, upending decades of rules-based trade, risking cost increases and likely drawing retaliation from all sides. Details of Trump's "Liberation Day" tariff plans were still being formulated and closely held ahead of a White House Rose Garden announcement ceremony scheduled for later today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chartered Accountant and Activist, Khaya Sithole
Parliament's Standing Committee on Finance has adopted its report on the fiscal framework that was tabled in Parliament by the Finance minister, Enoch Godongwana, earlier this month. The budget includes a zero-point-five percentage point VAT increase over the next two financial years. The committee adopted the report with recommendations proposed by ActionSA - which includes that Treasury must be given 30 days to come up with alternatives to tax hikes, while scrapping the VAT hike and to adjust personal income tax brackets. The majority of the members of the committee - 6 out of 11 - voted in favor of this. However, other members cautioned that the laws governing the adoption of the budget do not make provision for a 30 day window period. Zalene Merrington filed this report and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to policy writer, researcher, and political analyst, Tara Roos
Sakina Kamwendo is in conversation with Eastern Cape MEC for Public Works, Siphokazi Lusithi; Executive Head of Audit at the National Auditor General, Bongi Mngoma; Western Cape MEC for Public Works and Founder and CEO of Innate Investment Solutions, Lynette Ntuli as the Department of Public Works hosts its inaugural Public Works and Infrastructure event
Civil society organisation, Section 27 says it's is closely monitoring whether the Limpopo Department of Education will meet its own today's deadline to eradicate and replace all pit. In March 2023, the national department missed its deadline to eradicate pit toilets, and repeatedly extended it. Minister Siviwe Gwarube announced earlier this month that nearly the entire backlog had been cleared. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Education Attorney at Section27, Demichelle Petherbridge
UMkhonto weSizwe Party Youth Leader, Bonginkosi Kkhanyile is leading the 'Where Is My Vote' March from Tshwane to Alexander township. He alleges that MK party votes were stolen during the recent elections which ultimately led to the formation of the Government of National Unity. Khanyile alleges the elections were rigged as he believes the DA cannot macth the number of the MK party in electoral support
Over one-hundred people, including activists and students marched across Johannesburg yesterday calling for justice for a 7-year-old girl raped at her Eastern Cape school. The learner was allegedly molested at the school in Matatiele in October last year, whilst waiting for her transport back home. The perpetrator is yet to be arrested. Lerato Makola has more and Bongiwe Zwane spoke to spokesperson of the Private Prosecuting Unit within AfriForum, Barry Bateman
A 58-year-old teacher is expected to appear before a Limpopo court today after he handed himself over to the Sebayeng police station for allegedly raping a 13-year-old learner. The man was charged after the school's principal allegedly caught him sexually assaulting a the grade seven learner at the school last week. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo
The Democratic Alliance held its Federal Executive Committee meeting late last night ahead of the deadline for the budget to be passed on Wednesday. The party is a loggerheads with the ANC, its main partner in the GNU which it charges with sidelining it by refusing to consider proposals for a "growth-lead" budget. It is also refusing to concede to a proposed 0.5 percent VAT increase arguing that tighter controls in government expenditure is key to meeting budget shortfalls. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to DA spokesperson, Karabo Khakhau
The latest Household Affordability Index by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group has painted a grim picture of the cost of basic food items in South Africa. The index found that the average cost of South Africa's Household Food Basket increased by 0.3% in March, from R5 313,22 in February 2025. Consumers continue to buckle under the country's high cost of living, despite a decision by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana to add more VAT zero-rated food items. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group Advocacy Coordinator, Sibusiso Mboto. Meanwhile, the Competition Commission's Essential Food Price Monitoring report has noted a slight decrease in poultry and egg producer prices after avian flu, which affected the industry in 2023. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Competition Commission Senior Economist, Kagiso Zwane
The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has raised concern about the insufficient strategic fuel reserves available to provide uninterrupted service in cases of emergency. The committee conducted a two-day oversight visit to the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF) in Saldanha on Tuesday to ensure that the SFF has sufficient petroleum reserves to keep the supply uninterrupted during a crisis. Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources raised questions after it found much of that storage is empty. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Committee Chairperson, Mikateko Mahlaule
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has urged young unemployed South Africans to check with DIRCO before accepting job offers overseas, especially if the offers are too good to be true. This comes after twenty-three South Africans who accepted call centre and hospitality jobs in Thailand but were trafficked to Myanmar and forced to scam people online while living under "slave-like" conditions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dirco spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri
The Sudanese army shelled parts of Khartoum's twin city of Omdurman from early morning on Thursday, after declaring victory over their Rapid Support Forces rivals in a two-year battle for the capital. The army ousted the RSF from its last footholds in Khartoum on Wednesday but the paramilitary RSF holds some areas in Omdurman, directly across the Nile River, and has consolidated in West Sudan, splitting the nation into rival zones. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
Cabinet has confirmed the formal withdrawal of regulations gazetted by Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi which banned food products containing cannabis and hemp. Motsoaledi had expressed concern over unregulated imported foodstuffs containing hemp, its oils and cannabis. This caused an outcry from various stakeholders and businesses prompting a meeting with between Minister Motsoaledi and President Cyril Ramaphosa. Minister in the presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says further consultation will continue over the matter...
President Cyril Ramaphosa says water and sanitation still remains a huge challenge in the country. He was speaking in Midrand, Gauteng today at the National Water and Sanitation Indaba at the Gallagher Estate in Midrand in Gauteng. The gathering has highlighted government's commitment to tackling SA's water security challenges.
A reporter who was added to a messaging group with key U.S. national security officials has now released the entire Signal chat demonstrating exact details of attacks against Yemen's Houthis earlier this month. The additional release follows a breathtaking story published by the Atlantic Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg this week who was inadvertently added to a group of Cabinet principals that included the Vice President JD Vance, the Secretaries of Defence, State and Treasury, in addition to the White House National Security Advisor, the Directors of National Intelligence and the CIA among others. Intelligence officials faced a Senate hearing yesterday where efforts were made to get details why imminent attack plans were discussed on the encrypted Signal platform and not a classified system approved by the government. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Johannesburg power utility, City Power says 15 of its employees face disciplinary procedures, with another facing criminal prosecution, after they were allegedly identified to be involved in cable theft and vandalism in the metro. The utility is also undertaking a full-scale disciplinary and legal processes surrounding identified financial irregularities and mismanagement. The entity says as also several implicated contractors have had they contracts frozen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City Power Spokesperson, Isaac Mangena
South Africa's Automobile Association (AA) has raised concerns over the financial viability of the Gautrain rapid rail system. This comes after Gauteng MEC for human settlements and infrastructure development Lebogang Maile revealed that the Gautrain has lost five million passengers in the last four years. AA says despite this decline, authorities are moving forward with a R120 billion expansion plan. The association says it's concerning that such a large investment is being made in a system that serves a small fraction of commuters instead of prioritising more inclusive transport solutions. My colleague Thulasizwe Simelane earlier spoke to the Automobile Association's CEO Bobby Ramagwede
The Joshlin Smith kidnapping and human trafficking trial has resumed in the the Western Cape High Court, sitting in Saldhana Bay. Proceedings were adjourned yesterday after the state's key witness, Lorentia Lombaard fell ill. Lombaard was being cross examined by Rinesh Sivnarain, the lawyer for Joshlin's mother, Kelly Smith, when she said that she was not feeling well. Sivnarain is the last of the defence lawyers of the three accused to have his turn with Lombaard on the stand. The trial was set down until this Friday, but is set to continue for the next two weeks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Sagree Chetty
Local and international law enforcement agencies have arrested 40 suspects linked to a sophisticated SIM box fraud scheme. Interpol and SAPS seized more than 1-thousand SIM cards, along with 53 desktops and towers. This setup, which reroutes international calls as local ones, is commonly used by criminals to carry out large-scale SMS phishing attacks. The arrests were made as part of Operation Red Card which aims to disrupt and dismantle cross-border criminal networks which cause significant harm to individuals and businesses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Research Associate at University of Johannesburg (UJ), Calvin Rafadi
Judicial organisation, Judges Matter says a new draft directive by Gauteng Judge President, Dunstan Mlambo, will assist in the country's efforts to ensure timeous resolutions to civil trial matters. This comes a week after Mlambo urged parties in civil matters to first undergo mediation processes before the matters are set down for trial. The judge proposed a number of drastic measures as the judicial system battles to find judges to preside over the mountain of case backlog in the country. With Gauteng being the largest and busiest high court division in the country, Judges Matter says the initiative will benefit South Africans in pursuit of justice. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Legal Researcher at Judges Matter, Mbekezeli Benjamin...
A fund is currently being sought to help ease pressure on the overcrowded prisons system. This is according to a plan by the Judicial Inspectorate for correctional services. The inspectorate, which oversees prison conditions to ensure compliance with the law, says about thousands of detainees are unable to pay bail amounts under R1 000. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Judge Edwin Cameron, Head of the Inspectorate
Various law enforcement agencies have partnered together to form and launch the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum. The initiative forms part of the intensified and coordinated effort to clamp down on corruption in this sector. The Forum is made up of the Home Affairs Department, the Border Management Authority , the National Prosecuting Authority including civil society organisations. BMA's acting commissioner and retired major general David Chilembe says this is but part of efforts to intensify the fight against corruption...
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu has vowed to hunt and serve the law to those involved in the mass shooting of patrollers in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria. Mchunu visited the area a short while ago and confirmed that an undocumented Zimbabwean national found in possession of an unlicensed firearm has been arrested. The incident happened in the Mary Me Informal settlement last week. Mchunu further elaborates
The Gauteng Department of Health in partnership with the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases are rolling out an initiative to trace former mine workers who may be eligible for social security benefits for work-related illnesses and possible provident/pension funds due to them. While the programme will be rolled out across the province, Phase one has already began in the West Rand District due to a large concentration of mines in that area. The Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases database shows that there are over 2,000 former mine workers in the West Rand with unclaimed benefits, while 7500 more across Gauteng are yet to receive what is rightfully theirs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Director of Health Economics & Finance at the Gauteng Department of Health, Siyabonga Jikwana
Civil Organisation, On the Move is leading a community protest march to the Mogalakwena Local Municipality to demand removal of the municipal manager, Morris Maluleka. Maluleka is accused of neglecting service provision leading to the collapse of infrastructure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo
Roads have allegedly been blockaded at Nkowankowa township outside Tzaneen in Limpopo. Schooling is also reported to have been disrupted today. Protesting residents are said to be unhappy over electricity load reduction and water shortages. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Jostina Masedi, in Nkowankowa, Limpopo
The Western Cape High Court, sitting in Saldanha Bay, has resumed trial of the accused in the Joshlin Smith the kidnapping and human trafficking case. The state's star witness, Lourentia Lombaard has resumed her testimony after she turned state's witness. In her earlier testomony, Lombaards revealed that the three accused, Kelly Smith, Jacquen "Boeta" Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, are responsible for the disappearance of the 7-year-old girl. She also told the court that the current media attention on the case is overwhelming her. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Sagree Chetty....
As we mark World TB Day today, South Africa stands on the threshold of creating only the second tuberculosis vaccine ever, and the first in more than a century since the BCG vaccine in 1921. This is according to Professor Willem Hanekom - Director at the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI). Hanekom says it is fitting that we can proudly say that Africa, primarily South Africa, is playing a great role in the development of a TB vaccine that holds the greatest promise since the invention of the BCG vaccine more than 100 years ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director at the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Professor Willem Hanekom
The Pan Africanist Congress of Azania has taken its commemoration of the Sharpeville Massacre to the Dlomo Dam in the Vaal in Gauteng. This as the country marks Human Rights Day today which the PAC still insists should instead be officially called Sharpeville Massacre Day. Secretary General, Apa Pooe says the struggle continues today to be about about land restoration to African people
Former International Relations and Co-operations Minister Naledi Pandor says many South Africans bravely shaped the future of the country during the apartheid era. Dr Pandor says today is an important reminder to commemorate them for freedom and human rights that we enjoy today. She was speaking a short while ago commemorating Human Rights Day through Dialogue hosted by Sol Plaatje University. The discussion is centered around leadership, governance and protection of Human Rights in a Democratic Society. Dr Pandor futher says South Africa cannot let USA dictate who can or cannot be friends with. Let's here from Dr Naledi Pandor key note address at the by Sol Plaatje University
The first female president of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah, the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia is addressing the nation lets take you there.
Bafana Bafana are third in Group C with seven points, level with Rwanda but with a worse goal difference. Lesotho are fourth on five points. Benin top the group, two points ahead of South Africa. Bafana captain Ronwen Williams says the returns of Percy Tau has brought moral boost to the team. Jon Gericke has more from the Sports Desk
The farming community has bemoaned the lack of support from authorities to combat stock theft. The sector loses billions of rands annually due to stock theft. Police Minister Senzo Mchunu ,his deputy Cassel Mathale and National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, held a stakeholder engagement with the farming community in Bloemfontein to address the issue. The event brought together top officials from the hardest hit provinces - Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo as well as farming communities from affected provinces to discuss the escalating stock theft. Ishmael Modiba reports.....
The presidency has appealed for restraint during the planned welcoming of US ambassador, Ibrahim Rassol. Rassol is expected to return back to the country soon following his expulsion from the US. Unions such as COSATU in the Wstern Cape together with regional structures of the ANC have vowed to give Rasool a hero's welcome. This follows comments alleged to have been made by Rasool during a foreign policy seminar last week that US President Donald Trump was leading a white supremicist movement in America and the world. Spokesperson for the presidency, Vincent Magwenya calls for cool heads...
Four people have been shot and killed in Jeppestown, Johannesburg. Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni says that the incident is linked to taxi violence. Two of those killed are bystanders, and the other two are taxi association members. Last night, three people were killed in a similar taxi-related incident at the Zonkiziwe taxi rank at Vosloorus in eastern Johannesburg. Our reporter Ofentse Setimo caught up with Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni
Member of Parliament, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla's case of alleged incitement of terrorism and violence has been remanded to the 14th of August this year. The MK Party member and daughter to former president, Jacob Zuma made a brief appearance today at the High Court in Durban. She stands accused of using her X account, formely known as Twitter, to incite violence and support of violence during the widespread unrest of July 2021. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
The City of Ekurhuleni says it notes with concern the ongoing illegal strike action involving members of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). The officers are using state vehicles to block some of the major freeways including the N3, N17 near Carnival City, N12 between Daveyton and Benoni. Ekurhuleni Metro Police are protesting against their working conditions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ekurhuleni Spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini
The annual consumer inflation remain steady at 3.2% in February 2025, unchanged from January. That's according to a data from Statistics South Africa. The main contributors to inflation in the month came from housing and utilities, food, non-alcoholic beverages, restaurants and accommodation services. Inflation remains broadly under control and well below the Reserve Bank's midpoint target. Stats SA CPI operations director Lekau Ranoto says recreation, sport and culture, food and non-alcoholic beverages, alcoholic beverages and tobacco and communication recorded higher annual inflation rates in February.
There is a concern about an alleged Myiasis disease outbreak linked to maggots. Over the past weekend, Odi District Hospital in Tshwane allegedly treated five patients with suspected Myiasis a condition caused by maggot infestation in through the skin. However only three of the cases were clinically diagnosed with Myiasis. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr William Malebati, Manager for Infection Prevention Control at the Gauteng Department of Health
The state's star witness in the trial of those accused of kidnapping Joshlin Smith, has told the Western Cape High Court that she witnessed an interaction where Joshlin's mother, Kelly, wanted to stab her boyfriend, Jacquen "Boata" Appolis with a knife. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Sagree Chetty
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has called on unions within in the mining sector to help fight against TB the same was way they do other work-related issues
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has signed a notification published in the Government Gazette which prohibits the sale, importation and manufacture of foodstuffs containing any part of the cannabis plant or component derived from its hemp, hemp seed oil or hemp seed flour. This has left many retailers and small businesses in limbo on what to do with the stock of cannabis in. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Health Department's Director of Food Control, Penny Campbell...
The looming analogue switch is currently being legally challenged in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha
Outgoing U.S. Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool's privileges and diplomatic immunities will cease after the State Department indicated that it will no longer recognize him as a member of the South Africa Embassy. Rasool is expected to depart the country ahead of a March 21st deadline. This as the first public comments from the State Department following his Friday expulsion labelled the Ambassador's comments to the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection as falling short of diplomatic standards that could facilitate the relationship with USA and that the Rasool's description equating the United States with white supremacy cast the country in an awful light. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports on the latest in the diplomatic fallout between the United States and South Africa
Northern Cape police are looking for two men suspects who robbed private mortuary in Kuruman and stole of three corpses. Police say two men entered the guard room of the funeral parlour, assaulted, blindfolded and tied up a security guard and stolen three bodies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Terence Maloi, whose brother's body was stolen
Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile has tabled a half a trillion rand budget over three years for the Gauteng provincial government. He announced this during his 2025 Budget speech in the Gauteng Legislature in Johannesburg. Gauteng Education Department received the biggest allocation of more than 69-billion for the 2025/26 financial year. With Health coming second and receiving 66-bilion rand for the current financial year. Maile say's the total budget will grow at an annual average of 3-percent until the 2027/28 financial year.Maile says the provincial economy continues to grow above the national rate.Lets hear more from Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile
The trial of the suspects in the disppearance of Joshlin Smith has resumed in the Western Cape High Court, sitting in Saldanha, on the Cape West Coast. The court heard shocking testimony from a number of witnesses last week, including allegations that the 7-year-old'd mother allegedly sold her for twenty thousand rand. Kelly Smith, her boyfriend, Jacquen "Boeta" Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, are on trial following Joshlin's disappearance from the Middlepos informal settlement last February. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Tanya Krause
COSATU in the Western Cape says expelled ambassador to America, Ebrahim Rasool, will receive a hero's welcome when he returns to the province. Addressing the media following the conclusion of it's 6-th provincial conference, it says the matter of Rasool is part of international resolutions the federation took as part of its congress. Among the other issues the provincial arm of the federation will focus on, is rebuilding the relationship with its alliance partner, the ANC. Andile Mbanjwa reports
There continues to be mixed reaction and confusion over a notification involving the use of Cannabis in South Africa which was published in the Government Gazette and signed by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. Minister Motsoaledi announced a prohibition on the sale, importation and manufacture of foodstuffs containing any part of the cannabis plant or component derived from its hemp, hemp seed oil or hemp seed flour. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Danmari Duguid, an independent business consultant and former attorney who specialises in emerging markets such as Cannabis
There are only three days left before the set deadline to replace old SASSA gold cards with black Postnet cards. Postbank however urges beneficiaries to note that the 20th March deadline marks the date when the SASSA gold cards will stop working, and not the last day one can apply for the new card. SASSA grant recipients can still apply for and receive their Postbank black cards after the deadline. For more on this, both SASSA and the Postbank providing an update report on the replacement of Sassa gold cards and the payment arrangements for beneficiaries that may miss the upcoming deadline. Post Bank CEO Nikki Mbengashe
President Cyril Ramaphosa says outgoing Ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool will be landing in the country soon. Ramaphosa says he expects a full report from him on his return following his expulsion from the US. Ramaphosa was speaking on the sidelines of the Bana pele Leadership Summit currently ongoing in Braamfontein Johannesburg. The president says engangement with US structures continue to happen
Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana has called for calm heads as reactions to his budget speech continue to pour in. The Minister is currently appearing before parliament's committees on Finance following his budget speech on Wednesday. This follows the announcement that government proposes a VAT increase of one percentage point over a two year period. Godongwana says such measures are intended at tackling financial challenges in health, education, transport and the military amongst others
Three SASSA officials have been arrested at the Social Security Agency offices in Johannesburg. They are allegedly linked to the more than 260-million rand stolen from beneficiaries through ghost SASSA cards. Jon Gericke spoke to SASSA spokesperson, Andile Tshona
Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country supports a U.S. proposal for a ceasefire in Ukraine in principle, but sought a number of clarifications and conditions that appeared to rule out a quick end to the fighting. Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has left hundreds of thousands of dead and injured, displaced millions of people, reduced towns to rubble and triggered the sharpest confrontation for decades between Moscow and the West. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
Senior members of AmaZulu Royal family have called for unity in the royal household. Prince Mbonisi, Vulindlela and Mathubesizwe held a media briefing in Durban a short while ago. During the briefing they unveiled a Zulu royal family tree. For more of what came out of that media briefing we are joined on the line by our reporter Simphiwe Makhanya in KZN...
Convicted murderer, Reinhardt Leach has been sentenced to 25 years imprisonment for the October 2021 murder of girlfriend, Vicki Terblanche. Leach murdered Vicki and buried her in a shallow grave, allegedly in conspiracy with Vicki's estranged husband, Arnold Terblanche. SABC News Reporter, Sinethemba Witi filed this report....
One person has died in overnight rains across the eThekwini Municipality and surrounding areas. The body of a woman has also been recovered after her vehicle was swept off a bridge on Sarnia road in Pinetown in the west of Durban last night. Level 6 warnings issued by the South African Weather for widespread showers and disruptive rains across KwaZulu-Natal from today. These conditions are expected to continue today. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu and spokesperson of the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Department in KwaZulu-Natal, Senzelwe Mzila
A witness has told the Western Cape High Court in Saldanha Bay that she overhead Joshlin Smith's mother, Kelly, telling her boyfriend that someone wanted the 7-year-old. Lorentia Lombard has taken the stand at the Saldanha Bay multi-purpose centre, where she has testified that moments after the conversation between the couple, she saw Smith leaving the house with Joshlin to meet up with a woman in a white car. Lombard was accused number four in the matter but has now turned state witness. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Mlamli Maneli
Social media influencer, Shakirah Ganief, says Joshlin's mother, Kelly Smith had on two occasions expressed that she never knew she would be famous through her daughter. Ganief has been testifying in the kidnapping trial of seven year old Joshlin Smith which is currently ongoing in Saldanah on the West Coast. Joshlin went missing on the 19th of February last year and has still not been found. Her mother, together with her boyfriend, Jacquen Appolis and Steveno Van Rhyn are on trial facing kidnapping and human trafficking. For the latest from the today's proceedings of the trial, Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty
The Barkly West Magistrate's Court in the Northern Cape has set aside three days for the culpable homicide case against the partner of the late Judge Yvonne Mokgoro, who died last year. Mokgoro was seriously injured in a car crash in April 2023 and was incapacitated until she passed away a year later. Her partner faces charges of negligent driving and culpable homicide. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Thabiso Radebe
Leaders of the European Union and South Africa will this afternoon meet in Cape Town at the eighth EU-South Africa summit. President Cyril Ramaphosa will meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. European Commission President Dr Ursula von der Leyen says the geopolitical landscape is shifting and making strong partnerships more important than ever. Brussels and Pretoria are top trading partners. The EU and South Africa had their first summit in 2007 and the seventh in 2018, soon after Ramaphosa became president. To look at significance of the summit, Jon Gericke spoke to economist, Lumkile Mondi
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula is briefing the media on the 2025 national budget. Lets take you there now.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme says it has finalised its 2025 student allowance caps and confirmed a second upfront payment to universities. NSFAS says as the tertiary education academic year continues, it has released this information to all institutions in order to ensure that students receive their March allowances on time. Despite this, activists say issues persist, particularly for TVET college students, as payments are dependent on processes that often delays financial aid. Concerns around maladministration and financial mismanagement at the agency are rife, particularly with regards to over R17 billion allocated for student accommodation. Jon Gericke spoke to NSFAS Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi
The Director of Operations at the Electoral Commission of Namibia, Zenia Klazen has highlighted the importance of coupling electronic voting systems with voter and civic education. Klazen was speaking at the conclusion of the E-Voting Conference in Cape Town. The conference seeks to initiate a public conversation about the possibility of introducing e-voting in South Africa. Klazen says the introduction of electronic voter machines (EVMs) in Namibia, has enhanced the polling process, accurate results and has decreased human error. For more on the feasibility of electronic voting systems in South Africa, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ground Work Collective Founder and CEO, Mbali Ntuli.
Yet another Ekurhuleni bus crash today. A bus carrying school children this morning collided with a truck on Blackreef Road and Dekema Road near Wadeville, Germiston, in Ekurhuleni. The pupils were being transported from Ramaphosa Informal Settlement to Segutlong Primary School when the accident happened. No fatalities have been reported; however all the children are receiving medical attention. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ekurhuleni Emergency Medical Services (EMS) spokesperson, William Ntladi who is currently on the scene...
All eyes are on Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana ahead of his second attempt at tabling his budget speech for the year. Godongwana had postponed the tabling of the budget speech last month citing disagreements among GNU parters over a proposed VAT increase. The Minster is now set to table his speech at 2pm this afternoon. Meanwhile, Labour Federation, COSATU, together with political parties and social groups have once again taken to the streets outside the sitting of parliament at the Cape Town City Hall to voice their concerns. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli and Economics and Political commentator, Khaya Sithole
The Malawian Chief magistrate is expected to deliver a ruling on the extradition on the matter of Sherpered Bushuri nad Marry Bushiri in South Africa. Bushiri was placed under the interpol red Alert after he skipped the country. Bushiri is facig the charges of fraud and money laundering Sophie Mokoena reports..
All eyes are on Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana ahead of his second attempt at tabling his budget speech for the year. Godongwana had postponed the tabling of the budget speech last month citing disagreements among GNU partners over a proposed VAT increase. The Minster is now set to table his speech at 2pm this afternoon. Meanwhile, Labour Federation, COSATU, together with political parties and social groups have once again taken to the streets outside the sitting of parliament at the Cape Town City Hall to voice their concerns. Political activist and author, Allan Boesak addressed a crowd outside Cape Town City Hall
The SAHRC is in Mahikeng to investigate challenges in the scholar Transport. This inquiry follows numerous complaints regarding the inadequate, unreliable, and unsafe transport for learners, which negatively impacts their right to basic education. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAHRC Commissioner, Nomahlubi Khwinana
A couple of dead bodies still remain trapped under a bus which crashed and rolled on the R21 near O.R Tambo International Airport on Gauteng's East Rand. This has preliminary investigations continue to take place in order to understand what may have led to this fatal accident. At least 12 people have been confirmed to have died while 45 others have been seriously injured and taken to nearby hospitals. Gauteng traffic spokesperson, Sello Maremane says the cause of the accident remains unclear...
At least 6 people been killed in a turf war between community members and a notorious gang in Amaoti, in the north of Durban. All six deceased are believed to be residents from the area. The area is close to Inanda where the bodies of five people were discovered hacked to death in a sports field in January. At the time, Inanda residents called for the release of the 12 suspects who police had arrested in connection with the murders, saying that they were working to keep the community safe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Nonjabulo Mntungwa-Makamu
The City of Johannesburg says there's a need to root out criminality including hijacked buildings in order to return the City to its former glory. This emerged at the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry into the Usindiso-building fire that claimed 76 lives in 2023. The City's Human Settlement acting executive manager - Oupa Nkoane concluded his testimony yesterday. Pearl Magubane filed this report
The family of a man killed at Philadelphia Hospital in Dennilton, Limpopo has accused the provincial health department of trying to conceal the cause of his death. The department says Klaas Ledwaba was killed on Saturday when a patient attacked three others in a ward. Security guards allegedly failed to contain the patient and fired rubber bullets at him. Family spokesperson, Seun Mokgotsi says the department performed an autopsy on Ledwaba before calling them to come and identify the body. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Seun Mokgotsi, who is the family Spokesperson...
INTRO: The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) and Health Ombud is currently hosting a media briefing to release the findings of the inspection and investigation into the allegations against the Helen Joseph Tertiary Hospital. This follows allegations made by Thomas Holmes, after he posted a video recording alleging that during his admission in September 2024, he experienced neglect and rude behavior from the hospital staff, at Helen Joseph Hospital. He further reported that the hospital's infrastructure was in disrepair.
Residents of Amaoti, north of Durban say they fear for their lives due to the high crime rate in the area. Three community members were shot and killed allegedly by the members of a notorious gang this morning. The community says the group has been terrorising them for many years and not much has been done to address the situation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Mtungwa-Makamo
Two people have reportedly died in Soweto following an incident attended to by the Johannesburg Metro Police in relation to a taxi route dispute by associations. It is reported that the Metro police crashed into pedestrians and knocked down two pedestrians. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Spokesperson, Xolani Fihla
Gauteng police say one of the deceased from last night's shooting at the Solo restaurant in Sandton, Johannesburg had two pending cases of attempted murder. The shooting, left three people dead and four others injured. According to police a man with a firearm wanted to enter the restaurant which has a no firearm policy, when an altercation began. This led to a shootout between the man's bodyguards and security at the restaurant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Puseletso Mokoena...
Seven Chinese nationals have been found guilty of about 160 charges including human trafficking, debt bondage and violation of labour and immigration laws. They have been found of being Involved in the trafficking of illegal immigrants into South Africa and subjecting them to forced labour. During investigations 91 Malawian nationals were found in a factory including 37 children. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Hasina Gori
Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lietenant General, Tommy Mthombeni says the province has recorded a 6.5 percent crime decrease for the 3rd quarter when compared to the same period in 2023/2024. He was addressing the province's legislature's portfolio committee on Community Safety in Johannesburg. Mthombeni says close to 11-thousand illegal immigrants have been arrested between the months of October and December last year...
The Postbank says it is close to finding a solution to ensure that social grant beneficiaries who are bedridden are able to acquire a Postbank card. This, as the bank is administrating the process of grant beneficiaries migrating from a SASSA gold card to Postbank black cards. Earlier this month, Postbank officials appeared before Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Social Development to give an update on the migration process. In previous weeks, grant beneficiaries waited in extremely long queues, often leaving without being assisted. Postbank had previously acknowledged to the committee that it did not have the capacity to deal with the influx of people. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Evashnee Naidu, she is the KwaZulu-Natal Regional Manager of social justice organisation, Black Sash...
Government has vowed to intensify efforts to revitalize and rejuvenate Johannesburg and return it to its former glory. President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the establishment of the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. This came out at his meeting with the executive committee of the Johannesburg City Council which included the mayor and his Members of the Mayoral Committees. The meeting was also attended by several Cabinet Ministers and their deputies as well as some Directors General and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Senior Politics Reporter, Ntebo Mokobo
Police have uncovered a drug lab in the Westerneria, this afternoon. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Lopang Alamu
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the Gauteng Provincial Government to clean up the province and Johannesburg and make them presentable ahead of the G20 summit. The president has undertaken similar visits to Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo. Ramphosa says the G20 summit affords the country to make a mark in history. Meanwhile, the latest Quality of Life survey in Gauteng has found that it is becoming harder for residents of the country's bread-basket province to get survive. The survey's 33 indicators indicate that more than half of those interviewed believe government officials do not put people first.
The Universal Healthcare Access Coalition (UHAC) has slammed the draft regulations that Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has published. The draft regulations have set out a new tariff determination framework for private healthcare in the country. The UHAC says the use of an exemption provision to the Competition Act to manage health policy is questionable and open to legal challenges. The health organisation (UHAC) says The government's proposal to implement only minor selected recommendations of the five-year-old Health Market Inquiry (HMI) in order to address high costs of private healthcare will "do nothing" to advance urgently needed reform of both public and private healthcare. Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi recently complained about how private hospitals operate like airlines or hotels charging patients depending what targets the hospitals have to reach. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Universal Healthcare Access Coalition Steering Committee Member, Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa
The City of Tshwane says it is giving residents with illegal electricity connections until 31 March 2025, to come forward and declare their status or face penalties. The city says the innitiative has been taken in a bid to address the growing issue of illegal electricity connections, while encouraging residents who are unlawfully connected to the grid or have tampered with their meters, to come forward and regularise their connections without facing penalties. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Mayor of Tshwane and MMC for Finance, Eugene Modise
The rape case of gender-based violence activist Andisiwe 'Andy' Kawa is proceedings at the Gqeberha High Court, where the accused, Moses Ngqesha, has pleaded not guilty to all 11 charges of kidnapping, robbery, theft and multiple counts of rape. Kawa's rape incident made headlines, after she was abducted and gang raped for 15 hours while taking a walk at Kings Beach in 2009. The now 60 year old Ngqesha, is being tried after his DNA for an unrelated alleged crime in 2020, matched that of Andy's rape kit. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Kim Daniels
Ten people have died and about 30 inquired following an accident involving a truck and a bus on the N6 between Reddersburg and Springfield in the Free State. The road had to be closed and traffic diverted as a result. Free State Emergency Medical Services officials are attending to the trapped and injured passengers. The injured have been transported to hospitals in Bloemfontein and the nearby Springfield. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ishmael Modiba in the Free State
A newly-adopted by-law by the City of Johannesburg has raise concerns over the use of private surveillance cameras in the city. This as the by-law the prohibits residents from posting CCTV videos of crime events on the internet. The by-law further says all CCTV cameras with a view of public spaces, such as a road, must be approved and registered by the City. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director for Law Enforcement at the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), Talent Zwane.
A second witness, a police officer, has been called to the stand to testify in the trial in the disappearance of Joslin Smith in the Saldanha Bay Circuit High Court today. Seven-year-old Joslin went missing a year ago. The officer has been recounting the events of 19 February when the child went missing. He says they received a call from radio control to say a child was missing in the Middelpos informal settlement. He testified that Joslin's mother, Kelly Smith, who was standing on the roadside, stopped them and said her child had disappeared. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli...
All three accused in the disappearance of Joslin Smith have pleaded not guilty to all the charges they are facing in connection with child's disappearance. The trial against those alleged to have been involved in the 7-year-old's disappearance is currently underway in Saldanha Bay, on the Cape West Coast. The state alleges that Joslin was kidnapped and trafficked. The accused include Joslin's mother, Kelly Smith her mother's boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn. Joslin went missing from the Middelpos Informal Settlement, in Saldanha on the West Coast, in February last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli
The Border Management Authority says water levels have subsided at some ports of entry, and some ports are now operational. This as a result of recent temporary closure of five ports of entry due to severe flooding caused by the recent heavy rainfall. The recent affected ports are Stockpoort, Makgobistad, Bray, Groblersbridge and Pontdrift. Some of these ports are completely surrounded by water and are not functional. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Border Management Authority's Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Mpilo.
Judgement has been reserved in the constitutional challenge by two married couples where the husbands wish to assume the surnames of their wives. The applicants had successfully challenged the legislation in the Free State High Court after the male spouses could not change their surnames after marriage. One husband sought to take his wife's surname, while the other sought to hyphenate his surname to include the wiVes surname, but the system didn't allow for a man to assume the surname of his wife. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga
Amid widespread disruption at home and abroad, U.S. President Donald Trump will on Tuesday night address a joint-sitting of Congress – his first appearance in the House of Representatives since returning to the White House six weeks ago. This speech arrives amid sweeping changes domestically that seek to reconfigure and reshape the federal government while disrupting traditional alliances and partnerships around the world as Trump, supported by his South African born advisor Elon Musk, presses ahead. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports on what we might expect.
Prominent lawyer, Advocate Zola Majavu says his client - the Director of the Pretoria-based Zanzou night club, Neo Moela has nothing to hide and is willing to work with law authorities. This comes after a video emerged and went viral on social media showing men being assaulted at the popular Pretoria nightclub. One person has been arrested and appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates court yesterday where his case was postponed to later this month. Speaking on behalf of his client earlier, Advocate Zola Mjavu says there is more at play here...
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has announced the temporary closure of five ports of entry in Limpopo due to severe flooding caused by the recent heavy rainfall in that province. The affected ports are Stockpoort, Makgobistad, Bray, Groblersbridge and Pontdrift. For an update, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Border Management Authority Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Peter Mpilo.
Operation Dudula is expected to hold a media briefing in Soweto today in relation to the group's efforts to formalise its work and future programs. The group, which has advocated for the arrest and deportation of illegal foreign nationals says this is the beginning of a new era for the group. The group will sign a memorandum of understanding with the Professional Bodies of South Africa. For more on this, here is Operation Dudula's Thami Madonda...
The statutory rape case against a 28-year-old man who allegedly raped a thirteen-year-old girl has been postponed to the 5TH of May 2025. The matter was heard this morning in the Seshego magistrate's court, outside Polokwane, in Limpopo. The girl gave birth to a baby boy on Christmas Day at the Seshego Hospital. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Avhapfani Munyai
A man arrested in connection with an assault incident at the Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria is expected to be back in the local magistrate's court today. The Congolese national was arrested in Yeoville, Johannesburg, over a week ago. This followed the surfacing of a video showing a group of men being physically and sexually assaulted at the nightclub. Six complainants have since come forward. For the latest on this story, we are now joined on the line by our reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni...
More than 20 people have been killed in floods in KwaZulu-Natal over the past two months. This was revealed by the provincial Coperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi. Buthelezi, says with the persistent heavy rains people must be cautious and avoid building structures in low laying areas. Khalesakhe Mbhense reports...
Local residents in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal, are picking up of pieces of their lives following yet another round of heavy rains which ravaged the area. More than 20 people have now been killed in floods in province over the past two months. This as persistent heavy rains have destroyed homes, businesses and damaged critical infrastructure. One local businessman in Durban, Logan Naidoo, says municipal officials need to shoulder the blame for the disruption of people's lives...
Small-scale farmers in rural parts of the Eastern Cape continue to face the grim reality of being attacked, killed and have their livestock robbed by criminals. Many families have since run out of business and shutdown as livestock owners are murdered during what seems to be organized stock theft robberies. Some of the most targeted areas include Qumbu, Mount Fletcher, Tsolo and Bityi in Mthatha. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eastern Cape Communal Wool Association chairperson, Andile Ndzendze...
The The South African Social Security Agency says it is implementing rigorous account verification processes to detect anomalies and unauthorised transactions within the Social Relief of Distress grant system. Speaking to Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Social Development yesterday, SASSA CEO, Themba Matlou, highlighted how weaknesses in the R350 grant system could compromise the SASSA's integrity. Matlou was addressing findings made during an investigation into fraudulent applications uncovered by two Stellenbosch University students. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head Of Communications at the South African Social Security Agency, Paseka Letsatsi
The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies says it welcomes the decision of the National Treasury to assist the South African Post Office with 150 Million rands. These funds are expected to help address the Post Office's immediate financial pressures. This follows threats by the Communication Workers Union to close down all branches of the Post Office countrywide demanding a fifteen percent salary increase. It is also alleged that SAPO has in recent weeks failed to make medical aid contributions of their workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director General at Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, Omega Shilembe...
The Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism reports that Pepfar-funded HIV organisations in South Africa, who receive their funds through the United States Agency for International Development, USAID, woke up to letters that were sent overnight telling them their grants have been ended — permanently. The document also instructs them to "immediately cease all activities, terminate all sub-awards and contracts, and avoid incurring any additional obligations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Health Department spokesperson Foster Mohale
The family of a 60-year-old woman who was washed away by floods in Lamontville in Durban says they are pinning their hopes on search and rescue teams to find her remains. Her daughter Ntombikhona Mhlongo and her family are among at least 280 families who have been relocated to the Bayview Hall in Chatsworth. Their informal dwelling was washed away on Tuesday night in heavy rains. Six other bodies were recovered in various parts of the Durban metro. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ntombikhona Mhlongo and SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
Search and rescue teams have recovered five bodies in the south of Durban following heavy overnight rains. Three bodies, including two children, were found at Cuttings Beach, while the other two were recovered at Ansley and Brighton Beach. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether these are the bodies of the six people who were washed away in Lamontville. Earlier my colleague Jayed Paulse in Lamontville spoke to Ntombikhona Mhlongo whose mother was washed away.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says debt sustainability for developing economies is one of the priorities that South Africa will focus on, during the Finance Track Meetings of the G20, currently underway in Cape Town. The G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting is hosted by Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana and Governor of the South African Reserve Bank Lesetja Kganyago under South Africa's G20 Presidency theme of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability. Ramaphosa says debt service costs are increasingly crowding out spending on education, healthcare and other social services, as well as infrastructure needed for economic development...
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that the country's soldiers who were critically injured in eastern DRC are back home and receiving urgent medical attention. The soldiers arrived back home last night following a repatriation process. It is not clear how many other injured soldiers are remaining in the region but they are said to coming home in the next few days. Last month, 14 South African soldiers were killed in a clashes between the M23 rebels and the Congolese military in the town of Goma. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that the country's soldiers who were critically injured in eastern DRC are back home and receiving urgent medical attention. The soldiers arrived back home last night following a repatriation process. It is not clear how many other injured soldiers are remaining in the region but they are said to coming home in the next few days. Last month, 14 South African soldiers were killed in a clashes between the M23 rebels and the Congolese military in the town of Goma. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena
Former Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwanda says fraud charges brought against him were a fabrication and a political ploy to tarnish his name and that of his politcal party. Gwamanda, an Aljama-ah councillor had all charges against him provinsionally dropped by the Protea Magistrate's Court in Soweto. It was alleged that he and a co-accused had defrauded Soweto residents through a funeral policy scam. Gwamanda says the charges were politcally motivated...
Impeached Judge and uMkhonto weSizwe Parliamentary leader, Dr. John Hlophe has returned to the Western Cape High Court, following an application by the Democratic Alliance and Freedom Under Law. The parties approached the court in questioning the rationality of Parliament in endorsing Hlophe to serve in the Judicial Service Commission. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliament reporter, Zalene Merrington
Police in the Limpopo province say investigations are underway following the rapes and robberies of four TVET college students in Bolobedu. Police say one of the students went outside to fetch water when she was attacked by a suspect carrying a gun on Saturday evening. Provincial spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng, says the suspect instructed the students in the residence to undress at gunpoint and then proceeded to assault them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter in Limpopo, Rendani Raliphaswa...
A domestic violence survivor is appealing her murder conviction at the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court today. Known as the "Palm Ridge Mother," she killed her partner during a domestic violence incident in November 2018. The applicant is represented by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha
The Health Department have unveiled a new HIV treatment campaign, that aims to close the gap between persons living with the virus and on treatment and those not on treatment. The campaign, a collaboration between the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) and other stakeholders in the health sector, seeks to close the gap by the end of December 2025. Government has made efforts to enhance ongoing interventions on the uptake of life-saving HIV treatment to ensure 95% of people diagnosed with HIV receive and adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in order to achieve viral suppression. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director for HIV Treatment and Care, National Health Department, Dr Musa Manganye.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says a postponement in the tabling of a national budget is not unique only to South Africa. He was speaking during the opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders in Parliament a short while go. Ramaphosa has assured tradional leaders that cabinet, through the Government of National Unity, is working hard to find consensus on the final budget to be tabled on the 12th of next month. Ramaphosa further elaborates...
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing of 10 Western Cape High Court judges who filed official complaints with the Judicial Service Commission against Judge Mushtak Parker is currently underway after it was postponed by about four years owing to his health condition. Judge Parker is facing allegations of lying under oath and lying by ommission. If found guilty of misconduct, he could face impeachment for allegedly providing conflicting versions of an alleged assault by former judge John Hlophe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga..
There is an outbreak of the African armyworm that has been reported in Limpopo. One small scale farmer in Polokwane, Limpopo says she has lost close to 75-percent of her crops due to an outbreak of army worm in the province. Wendy Moshakga is a young black female farmer that grows spinach and cabbages in Seshego. She started farming in 2021 after struggling to find employment after completing her tertiary studies. Wendy Moshakga spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, says he doesn't believe that the postponement of the tabling of the national budget will have a major impact on the G20 Finance meetings taking place in South Africa. The tabling of the Government of National Unity's first budget was postponed last week due to disagreements in Cabinet regarding the proposed budget. It was the first time in 30 years that a Finance Minister did not deliver the speech as expected. Corbin August
The South African National Defence Union (SANDU) says negotiations on the repatriate of injured SANDF troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo, are on track. The union was reacting to recent concerns over the well-being of the soldiers and reports that Pretoria is struggling to evacuate troops. Speaking SABC News earlier this morning, SANDU Chief Negotiator, Jeff Dubazana dismissed claims that 190 soldiers have been injured in eastern DRC. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has his work cut out for him as some Gauteng residents are pinning their hopes on his State of the Province Address on Monday (24 February) to deal with pressing issues facing them. Unemployment, poor service delivery, the scourge of rape and student debt are among the challenges that residents want him to raise during his address. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ActionSA Gauteng Legislature Caucus Leader, Funzi Ngobeni
The stability of the of the GNU has been thrust in the spotlight once again after its failure to present its first budget on Wednesday. This is not the first time that GNU partners openly differed politically, ideologically and otherwise. With three Bills having been enacted into law since the GNU formation last year, several parties including the DA and the Freedom Front Plus among others have not supported these Acts and even threatened to take Some of them to court. Again, this week the DA refused to support the National Treasury budget with its 2 percent VAT proposals resulting in it being postponed by almost a month. Our Political Reporter Ntebo Mokobo looks at whether there is a need to re-align or reconstitute the GNU.
Organisations fighting against the abuse of children are once against making a call for the term child pornography to be done away with. The organisations believe the right term - which shows the gravity of the crime - should be called, child sexual abuse material. They say, using the term child pornography assumes that a child consented to be part of the act and minimises the fact that they are victims of violence and abuse.
In its 2021 report – the South African Law Commission also recommended amendments to the Sexual Offences Act and Child Justice Act, in favour of the term Child Sexual Abuse Material. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says the police are finally turning the tide in the fight against crime as the latest statistics show an overall decrease in crime. Mchunu, was presenting the quarterly crime statistics today, reflecting on crimes that occurred during the third quarter of the current financial year. South Africa's third quarter crime statistics reveal a 9.8% decrease in murder, with 6,953 recorded fatalities. However, Gauteng, Kwa-Zulu Natal, Eastern and Western Cape, are a major obstacles in the fight against crime as they dominate on criminality. Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal remain the highest contributors to overall national murder figures, accounting for 25.0% and 21.4%, followed by the Eastern Cape at 18.9% and the Western Cape at 17.4%. Mchunu says law enforcement authorities will focus on these problematic provinces. Jon Spoke to Crime Expert, Dr Guy Lamb
Members of the National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa are set to stage a picket at the offices of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The demonstrations in Sandton are over looming retrenchments at ArcelorMittal South Africa. The company has indicated its intentions to shut its Long Steel business, a move that will affect 3500 jobs. Jon Gericke spoke to NUMSA's National Spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in KwaZulu-Natal says 25 families have lost their homes due to heavy rainfall which caused widespread flooding and landslides in the province. On Wednesday, heavy rains triggered a mudslide in Adams Mission, in KwaMakhutha, resulting in six deaths. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News reporters, Nonjabulo Mtungwa Makamu and Thabiso Moss, and Siyanda-Bakgatla Platinum Mine's Executive for Corporate Affairs, Hope Tyira
The University of Cape Town has decided, as a precautionary measure, to move some of its academic classes to online platforms. This follows disruptive protests which started on Monday over debt fees and student housing. UCT Vice Chancellor, Professor Mosa Moshabela says the institution has taken every measure to support as many eligible students as possible but warns against unlawful protests which may infringe on staff and other student's right to have access to education. Jon Gericke spoke to UCT Vice-Chancellor, Mosa Moshabela...
The South African Communist Party (SACP) says its rejects the contents of the budget that was scheduled for presentation by the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana to Parliament yesterday but did not happen. The SACP says it mostly rejects the proposed VAT increase from 15 to 17 percent. The SACP says the unprecedented postponement of the budget must serve as a lesson against a policy direction that hurts the workers and poor. The SACP says an increase in VAT will reduce the basket of goods and services poor South Africans can access and will compound the social crisis that is reflected in the ever-rising cost of living that primarily hurts the workers and poor. Jon Gericke spoke to SACP National Spokesperson, Dr Alex Mashilo
Three people have been killed in a mudslides at Winkelspruit near Amanzimtoti, south of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. In one indicent, it alleged that a mud slide crashed into a house with a family of four inside. Emergency Services say two children managed to escape, leaving the parents trapped inside the house. In a separate incident, one person was buried beneath mud and rubble when a landslide crashed into their house. Several roads are flooded across the city due to heavy rains in the province. Jon Gericke spoke to IPSS Medical Rescue' spokesperson Samanatha Meyrick
South Africa is hosting a two day meeting of foreign ministers from the G20 group of major economies. President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to officially open ministers' meeting in Johannesburg today. But US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the meeting, a decision which he has attributed to South Africa's land reform policy following Ramaphosa's signing of the Expropriation Bill into law. Pretoria has been clear that its G20 presidency is a valuable opportunity to place the needs of Africa and the rest of the Global South more firmly on the international development agenda. Jon Gericke spoke to ohn Stremlau, the Honorary Professor, International Relations, at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
Civil organisation, AfriForum, says inspite of the organisation's opposition to recent developments in the country's political landscape, Afrikaaners continue to see themselves as indigenous to South Africa. The organisation tried to engage with the presidency on a number of these issues, including the Expropriation Act, but received to correspondence from government. The organisation says it was at this point, that it felt compelled to involve the United States of America. SABC News Politics Editor, Mzwandile Mbeje, sat down with Afriforum's Kallie Kriel and began by asking him what the organisation's concerns are with the Act...
The Student Representative Council (SRC) of UCT has called for a task team that will look into the accommodation crisis and historical debts of students at universities. Access to the university's upper campus was restricted, and some lectures were disrupted on Monday morning, as students protested over alleged lack
of accommodation and students -- who can't register due to historic debt. A number of students have allegedly been sleeping at SRC offices due to a shortage of accommodation. Andile Mbanjwa reports...
The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, has acknowledged that the replacement of the gold SASSA cards with black Postbank cards has not been well executed. Malatsi appeared before a joint sitting of Parliament's Social Development and Communications and Digital Technologies committees to explain why the process of card replacements has been so slow. The meeting was also attended by senior South African Social Security Agency and Postbank officials and ministers responsible for the entities. Postbank is responsible for the facilitation of the card swop. The deadline for beneficiaries to swop their cards was extended from 28 February to 20 March. Approximately two point four million beneficiaries that must still do the card swop. ZALENE MERRINGTON reports...
Experts have suggested categorising South African state owned enterprises into strategic and non-strategic entities. With around 700 SOE's at the national, provincial, and local levels, many are struggling to make a profit. Professor Dilip Garach argues that these entities should rather be privatised, while government remains a shareholder. His remarks come as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is set to table the national budget that will outline government spending priorities. SABC News Economics Reporter Nosipho Radebe has the details.
Minister of Trade and Industry, Parks Tau has established a fund aimed at addressing challenges linked to foodborne illnesses, particular in township stores, including spaza shops. This was announced by Minister Tau during his briefing to the Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade in Parliament yesterday. The fund's implementation will be led by the National Empowerment Fund and the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency. Jon Gericke spoke to Susan Mangole, acting Deputy Director-General for Incentives at the Trade and Industry department...
The Congress of South African Trade Unions is protesting; ahead of the Budget Speech. Cosatu are against budget cuts especially in the education and health sectors. There are various demonstrations in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo. The pickets and marches coincide with the Budget Speech to be tabled by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana this afternoon. The Federation rejects the current reduction in allocations to critical departments such as education and health. Jon Gericke spoke to Malvern de Bruyn, Cosatu's Secretary General in the Western Cape...
The African National Congress' National Working Committee has made sweeping changes to its provincial structures in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The party has removed former provincial secretaries Bheki Mtolo and TK Nciza in its newly-reconfigured provincial structures. Former ANC KZN Deputy Chairperson Micheal Mabuyakhulu is set to make a political comeback in the province as co-ordinator while party veteran Jeff Radebe will be the convener. In Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi survives the chop as he will now be co-convener of the reconfigured structure with veteran politician Amos Masondo. Jon Gericke spoke to political analyst, Sandile Swana
The overall audit outcomes of Gauteng Municipalities have improved in in their recent audit outcomes, with 8 out of the 11 municipalities receiving unqualified opinions. This is according to Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile who has just outlined the state of Gauteng's municipal finances for audit outcomes of 2023/ 2024 financial year. Maile says these audits are important to assess the financial or non-financial performance of various municipalities and the related impact on service delivery. Jon Gericke spoke to Gauteng Finance Deputy Director General Owen Witbooi
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC - Nomagugu Simelane - has advised against the closure of schools affected by the rapid spread of hand-foot-and-mouth disease in the province. The numbers of affected learners has now risen to 195 cases schools based in the North of Durban but cases have also been reported in Ugu and the King Cetshwayo disctrict. Simelane says 146 cases have been recorded in the Ethekwini metro alone but cautions against public panic. Jon Gericke spoke to Dr Angelique Coetzee from the National Institute of Communicable Diseases
The National Department of Health has told the South African Human Rights Commission's Inquiry into the Impact of Load Reduction on Human Rights, that interventions have been implemented to address the short, medium and long-term effects of power cuts. Speaking at the inquiry, the Department's, Christoffel Engelbrecht highlighted efforts to exempt key hospitals from load shedding and load reduction. Engelbrecht says a total of 76 hospitals have so far benefited. The inquiry was set up following growing concerns and complaints received from some quarters of society that while South Africa is experiencing a reprieve from Load Shedding, Load Reduction is seemingly on the rise. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News reporter, Sashin Naidoo...
The unemployment rate has decreased to 31.9 percentage points in the fourth quarter, a 0.2 percentage drop from 32.1 percent in the third quarter. This was announced by Stastician-General, Risenga Maluleke a short while ago from Pretoria in Tshwane. This becomes the second decease in unemployement since the third quarter of the year 2023. Maluleke explains. Jon Gericke spoke to Mphahlele Ndlovu from the Department of Financial Intelligence at Unisa
Eskom has threatened to shut down the City of Ekurhuleni due to unpaid debt. The power utility says it's about to extend power cuts due to unpaid electricity bills. According to Eskom, the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality currently owes over R2.3 billion, excluding its current account of a further R1.5 billion, which will become due on the 7th March 2025. Eskom says it has tried all avenues to accommodate the city, but it has now reached the point where it can no longer do so. Eskom is currently sitting with R90 billion in debt owed to by municipalities. Jon Gericke spoke to Ekurhuleni city's MMC for finance Jongizizwe Dlabathi
The murder case involving a widow to a Metro police officer in Ekurhuleni, Banele Sikhosana has been postponed to Friday for further investigations. The wife of the officer, Sibongile Dlamini is alleged to have arranged a hit on her husband, who was shot dead in cold blood on Vilakazi Street in Kwa-Thema, Ekurhuleni, during the early hours of February the 7th. Two suspects stole the officer's firearm before fleeing. One of the suspects appeared alongside the widow after she was arrested last week Friday, a day before her husband's funeral. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Puseletso Mokoena...
Several roads are impassable due to localised flooding in some parts of Limpopo. It's been raining for a few days in the northern parts of the province and the most affected are rural areas in the Vhembe and Mopani districts. The Punda Maria road between Louis Trichardt and Thohoyandou has also been severly affected. Some low-lying bridges have been washed away, while some have been badly eroded that led to the roads closure. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC Meteorologist Azwi Tuwani
Several roads are impassable due to localised flooding in some parts of Limpopo. It's been raining for a few days in the northern parts of the province and the most affected are rural areas in the Vhembe and Mopani districts. The Punda Maria road between Louis Trichardt and Thohoyandou has also been severely affected. Some low-lying bridges have been washed away, while some have been badly eroded that led to the roads closure. For more, Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News reporter, Vutivu Maluleke
The South African Union of Students has reiterated its call for government to address the disparity between the high number of matriculants who qualify for university degrees and the low number of spaces available at university level. The union's calls comes as the minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, is is today beginning her oversight visit to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, in the Eastern Cape province. During this visit, minister Nkabane, is expected to engage with university management and student representatives to iron out the issues of registration, accommodation and financial aid clearance, among other issues highlighted by the South African Union of Students. For more on this, Jon Gericke spoke to Spokesperson for the South African Union of Students, Asive Dlanjwa
Mpumalanga Association of Student Accommodation is terminating over 100 students contracts and chasing them out of their residents over non payment by NSFAS since last year. Administration challenges have left many students without a place to stay. MASA which consist of about 150 landlords and provides over 3,5 thousands beds students from University of Mpumalanga, TVETs, and Tshwane University of Technology. Jon Gericke spoke to the Mpumalanga Association of student Accommodation secretary, Robert Dlamini,
This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Sakina Kamwendo once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly.
The City of Johannesburg has announced the indefinite suspension of the Rea Vaya feeder bus services in Soweto, amid safety concerns. This follows a tense standoff yesterday, where taxi patrol vehicles allegedly swarmed Thokoza Park station, demanding 45 Rea Vaya buses halt operations. Two weeks ago, two Rea Vaya drivers were gunned down in the township. Now, with commuters caught in the crossfire, the city faces mounting pressure to restore order and protect both workers and passengers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Taxi Alliance spokesperson Theo Malele and Johannesburg's Transport MMC, Kenny Kunene
Sassa beneficiaries, especially for elderly and disabled have raise concerns about long queues in their quest to replace their Gold cards. In Golden Acre, central Cape there has been snakey long queues as beneficiaries try to beat the deadline for the migration from the SASSA Gold Cards to the Postbank Black Cards. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Mbali Tyhomfa and Post Bank spokesperson Bongani Diako
The families of fourteen South African soldiers who lost their lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are set to receive the remains of their loved ones today. The South African government has vowed that the 14 SANDF members who died in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo will be given decent send-off. The soldiers were fatally caught in the crossfire two weeks ago during clashes between the DRC army and M23 rebels. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to South African National Defence Force's spokesperson Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala
President Cyril Ramaphosa is responding to the debate of his State of the Nation Address, which was delivered last week on Thursday. This comes after two days of heated debate by various political parties in parliament. One of the top issues that have centered the debate is the recent tensions between the White House in the United States of America and the Union Building in Pretoria. Another thorny issue has been the repatriation of SANDF members killed in Goma in the DRC. Locally, issues of crime and the recently signed Expropriation Act have also raised eyebrows. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Sipho Seepe for his thoughts and analysis.
Water utility Rand Water, says its systems are dropping fast as a result of extremely high-water consumption from customers in Gauteng. It says there is high levels of water consumption by the Cities of Johannesburg and Tshwane. The utility says it continues to supply at maximum capacity; however, the storage is declining rapidly owing to high-water consumption. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Rand Water spokesperson Makenosi Maroo
The Special Investigating Unit says an investigation into procurement fraud at Eskom has revealed that thousands of the Power Utility's workers have over the years failed to comply with the company's conflict of interest policy. Addressing Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts, SIU officials say Eskom employees are linked to numerous entities serving as Eskom's vendors, contractor's and supplies which have accumulated Billions of rands over a period of nearly two decades. For a brief overview of some of these investigations, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
The Johannesburg Stock exchange is encouraging South Africans to check whether they may be eligible to claim dividends which currently stand at approximately four-point-five Billion rands. This as over 300-thousand South Africans are eligible to claim dividends from Companies such as Old Mutual, Sasol and Naspers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at the JSE, Vuyo Lee
A devastating incident has shaken the community of Siyabuswa in Mpumalanga, where a three-year-old child was allegedly raped by a local shop owner. The incident occurred a week ago, while the child was with their father and the accused. The child has since complained that her private part is painful and her mother can't even help her to bath. According to reports, the suspect confessed to the child's mother. The community is outraged, claiming that the police have failed them once again. Residents gathered earlier today in large numbers to express their frustration and demand for justice for the little 3 year old. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Nonhlanhla Ntshingila and Wise4Afrika director, Advocate Brenda Madumise-Pajibo
The ANC in the North West says it is considering a proposal to do away with the Ditsobotla Municipality by incorporating to nearby municipalities in the province. This is a resolution of the party which came out from its recent local government summit. The party says this it hoped to implement after next year's local government elections, provided that the last intervention at the municipality does not work, like previous interventions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC spokesperson in the North West, Tumelo Maruping
Cape Town businessman and alleged underworld gang boss, Nafiz Modack accused of the murder of a top police detective Charl Kinnear has taken a stand to testify at the trial taking place in the Cape Town High Court. He's started by giving a background of his alleged involvement in the property and security business now alleged to be part of Cape Town underworld. Mlamli Maneli reports...
Some university students; including those at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) students are reported to be struggling with various financial aid from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), including for accommodation. Hundreds of students at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) are said to be sleeping in a student centre, hallways and even outside due to a lack of available campus housing for about three weeks now. Every day, student numbers are taken, and administrators promise a placement as soon as possible, yet students have still been camping for weeks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kagisho Mamabolo , Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Private Student Housing Association and Ishmael Mnisi, Spokesperson for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
The South African Social Security Agency and Postbank are appealing to grant beneficiaries to replace their SASSA Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards by the end of this month. Should the beneficiaries fail to get the new card before the deadline, they will be unable to access their SASSA grant payments. After the deadline, Gold Cards will no longer be functional for any transactions. SASSA Spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi explains...
The Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Lindiwe Ntshalintshali says the department has fully complied with the Public Protector's remedial actions or directives. This included a mandate to develop an escape prevention strategy and guidelines within 90 days, along with ensuring compliance with Section 95(3) of the Correctional Services Act. Ntsalintshali says the department submitted key documents all within the stipulated deadlines. This as Department officials are currently briefing the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services regarding the Escape Prevention Strategy, a step in implementing the Public Protector's recommendations following the high-profile escape of Thabo Bester. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Zalene Merrington
The South African Human Rights Commission's Eastern Cape Provincial Office has unveiled its latest investigation report on school sanitation. The report evaluates the government's adherence to its obligations in ensuring safe and dignified sanitation for learners. The Commission initiated this investigation independently, focusing on the suitability of ventilated improved pit (VIP) toilets in primary schools across the province. Following the various media reports of the deaths of young learners falling into school pit toilets. The commission says despite policy commitments, pit toilets remain widespread, posing serious health and safety risks. For more on this we are joined by Dr Eileen Carter - Eastern Cape Provincial Head
It is still unclear as to how many suspected illegal miners remain trapped underground at a disused mine shaft in Roodepoort, Johannesburg. This as search and rescue operations resumed today at Shaft 2 of the Rand Leases Mine. Police and emergency personnel are currently on site. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi...
King Khoisan SA and his supporters have been evicted at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This comes after their deadline to vacate the premises expired. Government was granted an eviction order on December 11 and King Khoisan SA was given 30 days from the date of the order to vacate the premises. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to King Khoisan SA...
Over 6-thousand Non Profit Organisations have been deregistered by the department of Social Development for failing to comply with registration requirements. The department warned that more than 200-thousand organisations, risk deregistration for failing to submit annual reports as required by the NPO Act. Non-profit organisations play a crucial role in South Africa providing solutions to various social, economic, and environmental issues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Acting Chief Director: Community Development at the National Department of Social Development Luyanda Ngonyama
This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Sakina Kamwendo once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly.
The Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD) is reported to be in a state of shambles. The streets are said to be filled with potholes, and waste/ garbage not collected which may lead to health hazards. Some of the buildings are reported to remain hijacked and dilapidated where occupants allegedly don't pay for services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Hasina Gori and a Member of the Steering Committee of the Joburg Crisis Alliance Mark Heywood
The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs says eight (8) of the province's 22 municipalities are under mandatory intervention in terms of Section 139 of the Municipal Finance Management Act due to poor financial management. These municipalities are the Ditsobotla, Kgetlengrivier, Madibeng, Ramotshere Moiloa, Tswaing, Maquassi Hills and Naledi Local Municipalities as well as the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality. However, the Department says much more work still needs to be done in the beleaguered Ditsobotla Local Municipality as all interventions in the municipality have continued to be met with resistance including criminal behaviour such as kidnapping and taking people hostage. Sakina Kamwendo Spoke to Lerato Gambu - Spokesperson of the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs in North West
Retired Lieutenant General Vusi Masondo of the office of the Military Ombud has highlighted numerous challenges that are faced by his office in relation to his work with the Department of Defence. He has been addressing the Joint Standing Committee on Defense on its Annual Activity Report. Masondo reflected to the number of cases brought to the ombuds office including financial challenges and difficulties with the Department of Defence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Zalene Merrington.
Economic growth and job creation are amongst some of the critical issues President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address at his eighth State of the Nation Address today .Ramaphosa will use this opportunity to outline government's priorities and plans for the year ahead as well as give the nation feedback on the commitments he made last year and in the previous years. At the Opening of parliament last year after the formation of the Government of National Unity, inclusive growth, infrastructure development, strengthening dysfunctional municipalities and the redistribution of wealth are some of the issues that topped the Agenda. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst Asanda Ngoasheng and Cedric Thomas Frolick, National Assembly house chairperson
With the focus on President Cyril Ramaphosa's first State of the Nation Address as the head of a government of national unity, his speech is expected to feature the recently passed Expropriation Act which has garnered attention across the globe. To the extent that it has led to US President Donald Trump threatening to cut foreign aid to South Africa over the false belief that land was being confiscated from certain groups of society. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Inkatha Freedom Party member of parliament, Mkhulekwa Hlengwa
Economic growth and job creation are amongst some of the critical issues President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address at his eighth State of the Nation Address today .Ramaphosa will use this opportunity to outline government's priorities and plans for the year ahead as well as give the nation feedback on the commitments he made last year and in the previous years. At the Opening of parliament last year after the formation of the Government of National Unity, inclusive growth, infrastructure development, strengthening dysfunctional municipalities and the redistribution of wealth are some of the issues that topped the Agenda. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ActionSA MP Athol Trollip and ANC chief whip Mdumiseni Ntuli
Tragedy has struck Harmony Gold Mining, with five miners losing their lives in two separate incidents on Tuesday. At Doornkop Mine in Soweto, two employees died in a mining accident, prompting a temporary halt to blasting operations. Meanwhile, three workers perished in a fall-of-ground incident at Joel Mine in the Free State. Investigations, led by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, are underway. For a reaction on this matter John Gericke spoke to NUM Health and Safety Secretary, Masibulele Naki
Rea Vaya commuters were again left stranded as Rea Vaya services continue to be suspended. The bus transit system halted operations after two of its drivers were fatally shot on Monday evening. The drivers were gunned down and shot multiple times in two separate incidents in Soweto. John Gericke spoke to Johannesburg Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Safety Dr Mgcini Tshwaku..
The commemoration of three former employees of the Lily Mine is under way in Barberton, Mpumalanga. Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi and Solomon Nyirenda were trapped underground when the mine collapsed. They had been in a container used as a lamp room at the time. Today marks the ninth anniversary of the incident. For the latest from a program in honour of the three employees, we are now joined on the line by our reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi.
The Presiding Officers of Parliament, led by National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, earlier held a media briefing to provide an update on Parliament’s preparations for the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
KwaZulu Natal police are currently on the lookout for an unknown number of suspects. This comes after the N2 freeway in the south of Durban was this morning closed during peak traffic following a cash-in-transit (CIT) heist, where one person was killed one and 10 injured. The attack took place between the M7 and the M1 Higginson Highway. All suspects reported to have fled the scene. For an update we are joined on the line by Colonel Robert Netshiunda
The Soweto Crisis Committee says the implementation of load reduction disappropriately affects black townships when compared to suburban areas. This as day two of the South African Human Rights Commission's national investigative inquiry continues today in Sandton, north of Johannesburg. The inquiry is aimed at looking at the impact of load reduction on communities. Member of the Soweto Crisis Committee, Trevor Ngwane says the implementation of road reduction is both racist and discriminates against communities based on their social status. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni
Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero says everything possible will be done to protect Rea Vaya bus commuters and drivers. This follows the fatal shooting of two bus drivers in separate incidents in Protea Glen and Mapetla in Soweto last night. All Rea Vaya bus services across the city have since been suspended until tomorrow morning. The motive for the killings is unknown at this stage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Hasina Gori and MMC for transport Kenny Kunene.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he looks forward to engaging with president Donald Trump over issues of bilateral interests and concerns. This follows threats by Trump of cutting off all future funding to South Africa over the country's land expropriation policies. In a post on his media platform Truth Social, Trump said South Africa was confiscating land and treating certain classes of people very badly. He also called it a massive human rights violation and warned that the United States would not stand for it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Christopher Isike, the Director of the African Centre for the Study of the United States at the University of Pretoria...
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Summit is in session today in Zimbabwe to address the ongoing security situation in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The summit is a crucial gathering for the heads of state and government from all SADC countries to discuss and make decisions on the peace efforts for Eastern DRC. Chairperson of SADC Emmerson Mnangagwa, also President of Zimbabwe, is leading the discussions on restoring peace and stability in the region. To check in on the situation in DRC. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Al Jazeera journalist Alain Uakani, who's in Goma, and SABC correspondent in Kinshasa. Chris Occamringa and Rwandan journalist Sylivanus Karemera
Power Utility, Eskom has warned that up to Stage 4 load shedding may be implemented for the upcoming weekend. Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane says this is due to several breakdowns' that require extended repair times. He adds that this has however necessitated the use of all emergency reserves which now need to be replenished. Marokane revealed this while addressing parliament's portfolio committee on Electricity and Energy on the utility's Financial Annual report...
Malaria remains a pressing health concern in Limpopo. The province says three fatalities were recorded between April last year and January this year and over 500 cases, according to the Department of Health. Malaria, a life-threatening disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, continues to pose a risk, especially after heavy rainfall. Provincial health spokesperson Neil Shikwambana says the department is actively combating the outbreak through an indoor residual spraying programme, employing 355 seasonal spray workers to cover over 1.16 million homes.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Neil Shikwambana Limpopo health spokesperson
This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Sakina Kamwendo once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly.
The Rwandan President, Paul Kagame, says Rwanda is ready for a confrontation with South Africa if necessary. His comments follow a claim by president Cyril Ramaphosa that the M23 rebels and Rwanda's defense force were responsible for the deaths of 13 South African soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kagame has also said South Africa cannot be a peacemaker. Sakina Kamwendo
The Gauteng Department of Education says it has successfully placed 32,587 late online applicants in Grades 1 and 8 before today's deadline. MEC Matome Chiloane confirmed that 1,500 out of 2,079 schools were open for late applications since December 11. To ease overcrowding, the department introduced satellite schools, creating over 4,417 additional spaces in high-pressure areas. Chiloane urged parents to embrace this initiative, ensuring no child is left without placement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane.
Government officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo have appealed for calm after protesters angered by the rebel assault on the city of Goma attacked a number of embassies in Kinshasa. The diplomatic premises of Rwanda, Uganda, France and Belgium were among those targeted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Correspondent, Chris Ocamringa
The UN has reported that the flare up of fighting has led to, among other humanitarian consequences, the displacement of over 400-thousand people. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eujin Byun, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR ) global spokesperson
Reviving the country's economy, job creation, sustainable energy and the killing of SANDF members in the DRC among others, are set to top the agenda of the first Cabinet Lekgotla of the year which starts in Pretoria later today (Wednesday 29 January). The two-day meeting comes at a time when there are serious tensions among some GNU partners over a number of bills, which President Cyril Ramaphosa has enacted. The Freedom Front Plus has lobbied other parties to challenge the constitutionality of the Expropriation Act in the Constitutional Court, while the Democratic Alliance has lodged a formal dispute within the GNU. These partners are also poles-apart on the Basic Education Amendment Bill and the National Health Insurance. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, in a heartfelt statement, has extended condolences to the bereaved families of the South African soldiers in the DRC, vowing full support as the process of repatriating their remains gets underway. He has assured the nation that South African troops remain resolute, well-equipped, and supported in their mission under the SADC peacekeeping mandate. Amid swirling speculation on the battlefield conditions, the President urges South Africans to stand behind the men and women risking their lives to restore peace. He reiterates that South Africa’s presence in the DRC is not an act of war but a commitment to regional stability.
Police in Mpumalanga have intensified visibility after 51 Putco buses were set ablaze in the Nkangala District last night. Armed suspects, reportedly in a white Toyota Quantum, targeted depots in Kwamhlanga and Siyabuswa. In a statement Mpumalanga police say at Kwamhlanga, 16 buses were burned after 15 suspects stormed a depot, held staff at gunpoint, and injured a security guard. In Siyabuswa, 35 buses were torched across two depots. Police are investigating charges, including arson and attempted murder. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to PUTCO spokesperson Lindokukle Xulu
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed the tragic loss of three soldiers during clashes near Goma Airport in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo yesterday, 27 January 2025. In a statement the defence force says the incident occurred when M23 rebels launched mortar shells, striking the SANDF base. Additionally, one injured soldier succumbed to his wounds following days of intense fighting, while other injured members are receiving treatment at a Goma hospital. Despite these losses, the department force says SANDF remains steadfast in its peacekeeping duties under MONUSCO and SAMIDRC. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini
Government officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo have announced that the army is now controlling most of the town of Goma in the country's eastern region. However, the M23 rebels are adamant that they are controlling the town. For an update on the situation in the DRC, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a journalist in Goma in the Eastern DRC, Emmet Livingstone.
DA leader, John Steenhuisen has warned the ANC to treat his party as a coalition partner in the Government of National Unity or run the risk of tarnishing relations between the parties. Steenhuisen has been addressing the media on recent political developments and preparations for the upcoming local government elections. This follows an important meeting of the DA Federal Council where tensions with the ANC on the Expropriation Bill together with the National Health Insurance Bill were discussed. Steenhuisen, who expressed feeling under the weather which has affected his voice, says his party may have to reconsider its further participation within the GNU
South Africa has deplored what it termed "unwarranted attacks" against the U.N. Peacekeeping Mission in the DRC and SADC's Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) and called on the Security Council to take decisive action against callous acts aimed and undermining its role in the maintenance of international peace and Security. Ambassador Mathu Joyini was addressing an exceptional emergency session of the Council in the aftermath of an M23 advance in eastern Congo that has killed at least 9 SANDF soldiers with several additional injuries confirmed. The sentiment was echoed by the DRC Foreign Minister who urged the Council to use everything in its toolbox to arrest the situation while Rwanda - that is accused of militarily supporting M23 rebels with boots inside Congo - accused the DRC of mismanaging a complex problem in the region. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has paid tribute to nine soldiers killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this week, calling them gallant fighters who heroically halted the M23 rebels' advance on Goma. This comes amid calls for SA troops in DRC to be called back or withdrawn of their deployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The tragic losses have sparked criticism, with experts questioning the rationale behind deploying South African troops without sufficient support, including air cover. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has paid tribute to nine soldiers killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this week, calling them gallant fighters who heroically halted the M23 rebels' advance on Goma. This comes amid calls for SA troops in DRC to be called back or withdrawn of their deployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The tragic losses have sparked criticism, with experts questioning the rationale behind deploying South African troops without sufficient support, including air cover. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Defence Analyst, Darren Olivier
The UN Security Council has demanded an immediate halt to the M23 rebel offensive advancing towards Goma in eastern Congo, urging "external forces" to withdraw from the region. The council called for renewed talks between Rwanda and the DRC to address tensions, including the presence of Rwandan-backed M23 forces and Congolese support for Hutu militias. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News International editor, Sophie Mokoena
Mogalakwena local municipality in Limpopo has taken legal action to withdraw the appointments of hundreds of illegally appointed municipal workers. The sheriff of the local court has delivered just over two-hundred summons to employees to appear in the Polokwane High court in March. This after the special investigating Unit had recommended to the municipality that it declares the appointments of 400 workers illegal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Michael Makhungo.
A legal storm is brewing as lobby group AfriForum threatens to take legal action against the Government of National Unity following President Cyril Ramaphosa signing of the controversial Expropriation Bill into law. The law replaces the apartheid-era Expropriation Act of 1975 and comes after a lengthy five-year process of public consultations and parliamentary deliberations. It sets out the conditions under which the state may expropriate land in the public interest. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Good Party Secretary-General, Brett Herron and African Transformation Movement leader Vuyolwethu Zungula
This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Sakina Kamwendo once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly, delving deeper into the world of mining and engineering.
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing sexual harassment allegations against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge is continuing with the cross-examination of Judges' Secretary, Andiswa Mengo. Counsel for Mbenenge, Advocate Muzi Sikhakhane has focused on what they describe as Mengo's "omissions", in her complaint against the top judge. Mengo is accusing Mbenenge of sexual harassment during the period of June 2021 and November 2022. Sikhakhane went through her various responses that are not recorded in her initial statement... For more we are joined on the line by our reporter Canny Maphanga
Twenty-five survivors and families of those who forcibly disappeared or were allegedly killed during South Africa's struggle for democracy have filed a court application against the President and the government, seeking constitutional damages for the political suppression of the apartheid-era cases referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to the National Prosecuting Authority. The application also seeks an order compelling the President to establish an independent and public commission of inquiry into the political interference that resulted in the suppression of several hundred serious crimes arising from South Africa's past. For more we are joined on the line by Director of the Foundation for Human Rights Zaid Kimmie..
Acting North West Commissioner, Major-General Patrick Asaneng has shed more light into the mysterious escape of an illegal mining kingpin, James, "the Tiger", Tshoaeli was arrested last week in Stilfontein as part of a group of illegal miners who came up to the surface following months of being underground. He is believed to have a significant influence and role in illegal operations in the region. Asaneng says it is clear that Asaneng was never brought and booked into a police station following his transportation from shaft 11 in Stilfontein...
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services, Kgomotso Ramolobeng, says South African prisons faced a staggering 48% overcrowding rate during the 2023/2024 financial year. There are 156-thousand inmates crammed into facilities designed for just 105,474, according to Correctional Services Portfolio Committee Chairperson Ramolobeng. Speaking at a media briefing alongside other oversight committee chairpersons from the Peace and Security Cluster on Tuesday, Ramolobeng also noted that the department spends R500 daily to feed each inmate in its correctional facilities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister of Correctional Services Lindiwe Ntshalintshali
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is going to suspend payments to beneficiaries of the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant who are suspected of fraud. SASSA says it has implemented this activity to ensure that the Agency pays social grants to the right people and avoid identity theft. The Agency is also encouraging people to take responsibility to make sure that their Identity numbers are not utilised for fraudulent activities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Paseka Letsatsi- SASSA's Spokesperson
The Department of Correctional Services has dismissed reports that five Correctional Services officials have been dismissed after an inmate Bacelio Alphonso was allegedly assaulted and died at Leeuwkop Prison in Johannesburg on the 30th of December last year. Alphonso's family alleged that a source within the prison, informed them that Alphonso was beaten to death by officials who claimed he attacked them after allegedly smoking crystal meth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services Singabakho Nxumalo who says the department cannot legitimise fake news.
The Democratic Alliance has dismissed allegations against Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson, labeling them as a smear campaign aimed at undermining his anti-corruption efforts. The DA claims the accusations, by the EFF, are an attempt to discredit Macpherson's work in uncovering an R800-million oxygen tender scandal within the Independent Development Trust (IDT). Earlier today, EFF Secretary General Marshall Dlamini filed a corruption case against Macpherson at Pretoria Central Police Station. The Minister is accused of pressuring an IDT staff member via email to process a contractor's payment. EFF Secretary General Marshall Dlamini addressing members of the media outside Pretoria Central Police Station had this to say
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal tasked with probing sexual harassment allegations against Judge President Selby Mbenenge continues to cross-examine complainant, Judges' Secretary, Andiswa Mengo. Mengo has accused Mbenenge of sexual harassment in the form of in-person interaction and electronic communication. She now faces tough questions from Mbenenge's counsel, Advocate Muzi Sikhakhane. Mengo is being questioned on evidence, which the respondent's counsel perceives to contradict the contention that the advances were unwanted. Sakina Kamwendo spoker to SABC reporter Canny Maphanga...
City Power is appealing to law enforcement agencies to assist with the removal of the zama-zamas whom they say have been living in underground tunnels in the Inner City and stealing electricity copper cables. City Power says there has been an overwhelming increase in the activity underground which is the source of the recent outages affecting the Inner City and the surrounding areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City Power Spokesperson Isaac Mangena
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Xola Nqola, has announced that the Parliamentary Committee on Justice will be conducting oversight visits to the Office of the State Attorney and engaging with the Solicitor-General. Speaking at a media briefing in Parliament alongside other National Assembly oversight committee chairpersons from the Peace and Security Cluster, Nqola highlighted the significant challenges facing the Office of the State Attorney. These include corruption, resistance to policy changes, capacity constraints, infrastructure shortcomings, and delays in payments to legal practitioners. The briefing forms part of the 7th Parliament's Weekly Committee engagements, aimed at addressing critical governance issues.
Secretary to Judge President Selby Mbenenge; Andiswa Mengo has testified that she was NOT in a romantic relationship with Judge President Selby Mbenenge nor did she ever consent to the alleged conduct by the top Judge. The Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing sexual harassment allegations against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge continues to hear evidence from the complainant Andiswa Mengo. Mengo has accused Mbenenge of sexual harassment in the form of in-person interaction and electronic interaction between June 2021 to November 2022. Mengo says that prior to lodging a formal complaint, she proposed a roundtable with other Judges to address the Judge President and stop the alleged advances and seek the Judges' intervention. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Canny Maphanga...
Around 800- thousand non compliant companies that are going to be de-registered. The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) says the decision is a results of continued low compliance with annual returns, beneficial ownership, and other obligations under the Companies Act. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CIPC Senior Manager Companies and Close Corporations Advocate Christa Klokow
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula briefed the media following the party’s NEC meeting this weekend, announcing the reconfiguration of the KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng ANC Provincial Executive Committees. He clarified that these changes will be carried out in accordance with the ANC Constitution. This decision comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the closing remarks at the two-day ANC NEC meeting. Mbalula also outlined the key outcomes of the special National Executive Committee session, emphasizing the party's commitment to organizational adjustments and strengthening its leadership.
Inanda residents in Durban Kwazulu-Natal are threatening to take the law into their own hands if 12 suspects arrested for the alleged hacking to death of five people last week are not released. The residents have gathered outside the Ntutuza Magistrates Court alleging that the suspects are part of a community group which has been protecting women and children against crimes such as rape. The community further alleges that crimes reported to local police are never attended to. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to one of the residents, Mduduzi Hadebe
Leaders from government, civil society, and business will gather in Davos, Switzerland, this week for the 2025 World Economic Forum. South Africa aims to position the country as an attractive investment destination. President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the South African delegation to the WEF for the first time in many years. The delegation, made mainly of business and government, is expected to highlight South Africa's G20 presidency at the WEF with a focus on innovation and inclusion to help address the country's economy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Lebogang Maile, Gauteng finance MEC
Police say they believe one of four alleged illegal mining kingpins who escaped from police custody may have been aided to escape. The fugitive is part of the group that resurfaced from shaft 11 mine in Stilfontein in the North West. . Police say extensive investigation and tracing operations are underway to pinpoint those officials who aided the escape of the alleged kingpin who is a Lesotho National. According to Police - James Neo Tshoaeli who is commonly known as "Tiger" - was never booked into any of the local police stations where some illegal miners are being kept nor was he admitted at the local hospital for medical care. National police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe explains.
This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Sakina Kamwendo once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly.
The National Treasury has assured retail depositors of Ithala Bank Limited that their deposits will be protected by a government guarantee, subject to the conclusion of the necessary technical work. This follows the Prudential Authority's application for provisional liquidation of the Bank. Ithala Bank has meanwhile threatened to take legal action against the application for its liquidation, which would put 400 jobs and more than 250-thousand depositors into jeopardy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chartered Accountant and Independent Analyst Khaya Sithole.
Government is holding urgent talks with ArcelorMittal amid the company's plans to close down its operations. Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth is meeting the management of ArcelorMittal South Africa today. ArcelorMittal South Africa announced that it would close facilities that produce long-steel products in the towns of Newcastle and Vereeniging and a rail-fabrication facility in eMalahleni because it couldn't make them profitable. This would lead to as many as 3 500 jobs loses. To discuss the challenges facing the steel sector, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the President of Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of South Africa SEIFSA, Elias Monage.
Members of the Inanda Community Policing Forum (CPF) have urged various stakeholders, including SAPS and local churches, to unite in their efforts to combat the scourge of crime. It follows the discovery of five men's bodies in the area. The bodies were found in the Bambayi area in Inanda, hacked to death. They are believed to be between the ages of 19 and 26 years old. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to The Head of Reaction Unit South Africa RUSA, Prem Balram
While Day 1 of a long 12-year schooling career was seamless for some parents, other anxious and frustrated parents have been queuing at the Johannesbug central district offices in Pimville, Soweto, to have their children placed in schools. Some allege they could not effectively utilize the online admission process while others say they did apply on time through the Gauteng systems but have yet to be placed. Here is what some had to day...
One hundred and one-(101) illegal mine workers have been retrieved from shaft 11 in Stilfontein in the North West by the second day of operations led by government. Sixty bodies have also been retrieved thus far. The operation started on Monday and is expected to continue for about 10 days.
Forum 4 Service Delivery has collaborated with ActionSA in preparation for the 2026 local government elections, during which the party will compete under the ActionSA banner. Here is the Action SA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont elaborating further
Negotiators will meet in Doha TODAY to finalise details of a plan to end the war in Gaza which has drastically affected the Middle East, after U.S. President Joe Biden indicated a ceasefire and hostage release deal was imminent. Mediators gave Israel and Hamas a final draft of an agreement on Monday, an official briefed on the negotiations said, after a midnight "breakthrough" in talks attended by envoys of both Biden and President-elect Donald Trump. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal probing sexual harassment allegations against Judge President Selby Mbenenge has sought to understand why the complainant told him to "earn it" in response to his persistent requests for her images. This as the whatsapp message exchanges between the pair were put under the spotlight on the second day of the tribunal. According to the witness, Andiswa Mengo - the interactions which took place between June 2021 and November 2022 via in-person and electronic communication - were unwanted. Mengo spoke through an interpreter when she was probed on her "earn it" response. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube says it is promising to have all nine provinces of the country obtaining no less than eighty-four percent of the pass rate. She was speaking in East London in the Eastern Cape where she lauded the province for its constant improvement in its pass rate. The Province obtained an 84.9 pass rate with nearly half of its matriculants obtaining bachelor passes. Gwarube says some rural areas outperform some of the metros when it comes to matric results...
In 2024, education expenses surged by 6.3% compared to the previous year, marking the sharpest increase since 2020, according to Statistics South Africa's March consumer inflation data. This rise outpaces the 5.7% hike recorded in 2023. High school fees saw the steepest climb at 7.3%, while primary schools and tertiary institutions raised their fees by 5.9%. Crèches also increased their fees by 6%. Meanwhile, university boarding costs soared even higher, with an 8.2% jump compared to 2023. Education fees are reviewed annually in March, making this data a critical indicator of rising education costs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to John Manyike Group Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual
The release of matric results can be a trigger for depression and anxiety in students, and in some cases may lead to suicidal thoughts. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has also noticed an increase in matric learners seeking assistance, and urges students to reach out if they are feeling overwhelmed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Sanele Gamede, a Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg and founder of #MatricsUngazibulali, a program that advises matriculants who did not perform as well as they would like options of 2nd chances to eventually achieve their goals
The Limpopo Department of Health says two nurses have been raped while working the night shift at the Ga-Chuene clinic, outside Polokwane in Limpopo. Health spokesperson, Neil Shikwambana says a heavily armed man entered the clinic shortly after midnight. The suspect then allegedly overpowered security personnel and abducted two nurses. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pimani Baloyi
Five suspects, including the grandson of late former President, Nelson Mandela, are expected to appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court today. Police say the suspects, four men and one woman, were arrested at Mandela's former home Houghton, in Johannesburg on Wednesday, following a car hijacking incident. During the arrest, police recovered a white Toyota Corolla and an unlicensed firearm. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Xoliswa Makhikhi
Concerns are mounting over the growing issue of unemployed doctors who have completed their community service but remain without placements. The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has raised the alarm, reporting that 1,800 doctors nationwide are left in limbo. To address this crisis, SAMA has initiated a survey to assess its scope and is calling on the government to create job opportunities, boost healthcare funding, and implement long-term solutions. The association warns that failure to address these pressing issues could result in legal action. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ruhann Botha, an unemployed doctor
A former employee of the Midrand Christian College in Halfway House, in Gauteng, claims to have been fired with others, for speaking out against the school's non compliance with South African education regulations. The Whistle blower says most teachers are not registered with the South African Council of Educators (SACE), nor are their qualifications approved BY SAQA; the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Meshack (pseudo name) to protect his identity
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has re-affirmed its commitment to working with steel manufacturer, ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA), to find a workable and lasting solution to planned job losses at the company. In an effort to find a way forward, DTI Minister, Parks Tau, has set up a technical working group made up of various stakeholders, including the departments of Electricity and Energy, Transport and the private sector. The department's intervention comes days after ArcelorMittal announced that over 3,500 jobs are at risk, as the company begins operations to wind down its longs steel businesses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Acting Deputy Director-General at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Tebogo Makube ...
The High Court, in Pretoria, has struck off the roll, the urgent application to prevent the basic education department from publishing matric results. The Information Regulator brought the case before the court in relation to the release of the 2024 matric results on forums including newspapers. The regulator says the publishing of the 2024 matric results which will be released on Monday would violate the learners' right to privacy. In delivering the judgement, the presiding judge had this to say.
Reports indicate that Malawians are spending entire nights in kilometres-long queues at petrol stations, as the country buckles under a fuel shortage crisis. In an effort to address this, the Malawi government says it has bought about 51.5 million litres of diesel and petrol from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) under a government-to-government (G-2-G) arrangement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Michael Mbewe, a correspondent for our sister station, Channel Africa
Former President Jacob Zuma has threatened legal action over his expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC) citing procedural and substantive concerns regarding the ANC's processes. Zuma's lawyers have written to the (ANC) seeking his immediate reinstatement as a member of the ANC and further information on his expulsion. In November last year, the ANC's National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal upheld the committee's decision to expel Zuma. The uMkhonto we Sizwe Party leader was expelled for bringing the party into disrepute and establishing and leading a rival political party. MK Party lawyers have given the ANC until the end of January to respond. uMkhonto we Sizwe Party's Floyd Sgivambub recently said its members are allowed to have dual membership in exceptional strategic cases. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Sandile Swana
Four suspects were arrested in Houghton this morning after JMPD officers recovered a hijacked Toyota Corolla and an unlicensed firearm at a property previously owned by former president Nelson Mandela. In a statement, the JMPD says the vehicle was tracked following its hijacking on Louis Botha Avenue earlier today. The suspects, three men and a woman, were detained at Norwood SAPS. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Xolani Fihla, Spokesperson for Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department
The Department of Correctional Services has confirmed that investigations are underway following the death of Bacelio Alphonso on December 30, 2024, at Leeuwkop Prison in Johannesburg. Speaking on this program yesterday, Alphonso's family called for justice, expressing frustration over unanswered questions surrounding his death. The Family spokesperson alleged that a source within the prison, alleged Alphonso was beaten to death by officials who claimed he attacked them after allegedly smoking crystal meth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Singabakho Nxumalo, the Spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Global Minimum Tax Act into law. This groundbreaking legislation enforces a 15% effective tax rate on multinational corporations, ensuring they contribute their fair share. The act targets tax avoidance by closing loopholes that allow companies to benefit from low-tax jurisdictions, potentially raising R8 billion in revenue by 2026. Rooted in the OECD's global tax reform framework, it applies to firms with annual revenues exceeding €750 million. While some organizations applaud the move, critics argue the threshold is too high, leaving many companies unaffected. Implementation begins this year. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Executive Director at Firstsource Money, Redge Nkosi
The family of the late Bacelio Alphonso, who passed away on December 30, 2024, while incarcerated at Leeuwkop Prison in Johannesburg, is seeking justice to uncover the circumstances surrounding his death. In a statement the family says Authorities informed the family the following day, but key details, including the exact time of death, remain unclear. Family members, says a source within the prison, allege Alphonso was beaten to death by officials who claimed he attacked them after allegedly smoking crystal meth. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Godfrey Williams, family spokesperson.
Lobby group - AfriForum has stressed the need of publishing matric results in newspapers - citing the benefits for learners in rural areas and villages who have limited internet access. Afriforum's Head of Cultural Affairs, Alana Bailey spoke to SABC NEWS during the brief court adjournment in the Pretoria High court where the Information Regulator has brought an urgent application to stop the Basic Education Department from publicly publishing the 2024 matric results like in newspapers. Afriforum has been invited to the case as a friend of the court. Bailey says publishing exam numbers without names balances privacy and public interest, a stance supported by a 2022 court ruling. The presiding judge in the matter has questioned the urgency of the application....
China is currently facing a new virus outbreak with the HMPV spreading rapidly, causing flu-like and COVID-19-like symptoms. While the virus is prevalent in China, it is reported to not be a new and can also be detected in other parts of the country. For more clarity, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Prof. Cheryl Cohen, head of the Centre for Respiratory Diseases and Meningitis at the National Institute For Communicable Diseases.
Five young Kenyans, including popular cartoonist Kibet Bull, who went missing before Christmas, have been found alive. This comes amid escalating outrage over a wave of abductions, with rights groups reporting over 80 disappearances in the past six months, many involving government critics. While authorities deny involvement, activists point fingers at security forces. Kibet Bull announced his return on social media after his release on Monday, alongside others, who have reunited with their families. Despite these developments, at least 24 individuals remain unaccounted for. Meanwhile, in Mozambique, opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who has been leading deadly protests against disputed election results while outside the country, announced his return to the country. Mondlane plans to arrive ahead of the inauguration of the new president, Daniel Chapo, following an election marred by allegations of irregularities and violent clashes that have claimed hundreds of lives. Bongiw Zwane spoke to SABC News International Editor, Sophie Mokoena.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Global Minimum Tax Act into law. This groundbreaking legislation enforces a 15% effective tax rate on multinational corporations, ensuring they contribute their fair share. The act targets tax avoidance by closing loopholes that allow companies to benefit from low-tax jurisdictions, potentially raising R8 billion in revenue by 2026. Rooted in the OECD's global tax reform framework, it applies to firms with annual revenues exceeding €750 million. While some organizations applaud the move, critics argue the threshold is too high, leaving many companies unaffected. Implementation begins this year. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Executive Director at Firstsource Money, Redge Nkosi
Eighteen people have died and one baby has been seriously injured in a crash on the N3 at Van Reenen Pass involving a truck, taxi and a car. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport spokesperson, Ndabezinhle Sibiya says more people were trapped in the wreckage. It's alleged that the driver of the truck fled the scene. The N3 Toll Concession company says the pass has been closed while emergency services were attending to the scene. It says according to reports, the weather was poor, with heavy mist and dangerous driving conditions. There was a heavy backlog of traffic as vehicles were being stopped between the Pyramids Motel and Van Reenen town. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport spokesperson, Ndabezinhle Sibiya
VIP police have rushed to protect to Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, following an altercation with a community member during his door-to-door campaign in Khayelitsha today. Reports indicate that a man claiming to own the house Mashatile was visiting, demanded that the Deputy President and his entourage vacate the premises immediately. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington, who witnessed incident
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has joined the SACP in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the passing of the party's former General Secretary and National Chair, Joe Slovo in Soweto. The ANC says its participation in today's commemoration will serve as a moment to reflect on Slovo's revolutionary ideals and the shared mission to advance the National Democratic Revolution. The two alliance partners are set to hold a bilateral later this month on the matter including the over 22-year-old alliance reconfiguration debate. Ramaphosa says Slovo was firm in strategy and action...
Johannesburg residents are bracing for intensified daily water restrictions, aimed at replenishing the city's reservoirs. This follows Joburg Water's 86-hour infrastructure maintenance in December last year. The entity has been grappling with water shortages since its bulk supplier, Rand Water, was forced to reduce supply due to excessive water consumption. Bongiwe Zwane spoke tp DA Deputy Spokesperson on Water and Sanitation, Stephen Moore...
A total of 26 cattle have been recovered following a stock theft raid which was led by Acting Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, Zeph Mkhwanazi in Verena in Mpumalanga. After years of uncontrollable stock theft in the area farmers can finally breathe a sigh of relief as renewed efforts by police to combat the scourge seem to be yielding positive results. This raid was aimed at combatting the escalating stock theft crisis that has left farmers vulnerable and threatened their livelihoods. Mkhwanazi has urged farmers to play their part by not employing illegal and undocumented workers for cheap labour. Nonhlanhla Ntshingila reports
The Department of Cooperative Governance has announced the termination of contracts for over 255,000 Community Work Programme participants aged 55 and older. The department is citing significant budget cuts and unauthorized expenditure concerns for its decision. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Public Servants Association, PSA Acting Deputy General Manager, Claude Naiker
The Department of Cooperative Governance has announced the termination of contracts for over 255,000 Community Work Programme participants aged 55 and older. The department is citing significant budget cuts and unauthorized expenditure concerns for its decision. For more on this, we're joined by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, COGTA Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa
A man from Lindley in the Free State was arrested last night for the alleged murder of his girlfriend and their daughter. This after police discovered the decomposing bodies of the 27-year-old woman and an 18-month-old baby girl following a complaint by the community. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Free State Police Spokesperson, Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring
South Africa has one of the highest 'teen pregnancy' rates in the world. According Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) over 90-thousand girls aged ten to 19 years gave birth from March 2021 to April 2022 in all nine provinces. Yesterday, the Eastern Cape Department of Health expressed shock and concern after a 12-year-old girl gave birth at a health facility in Komani in the Chris Hani District Municipality. One of the root causes for those stark statistics is a crime called statutory rape. What is the most effective way of dealing with teenage pregnancy? Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Lovelife's National Manager for Healthy Lifestyles, Thabiso Mokoena
The Gauteng Department of Health says an investigation is underway following the death of a 32-year-old Johannesburg, who died along with her unborn baby, while seeking medical attention at the Westbury Clinic. The circumstances leading to the deaths are yet to be established, with community members staging a protest outside the facility earlier this week. Gauteng Health MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko earlier said she had engaged with the bereaved family, as the department wait to establish the facts on the incident. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Westbury Community Leader, Melissa Davis
As we welcome 2025, South Africa's political landscape is poised for significant developments. The year 2024 was marked by the ANC's loss of majority in Parliament, prompting the formation of a government of national unity. Last year we also witnessed senior ANC officials in court facing corruption allegations, and the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, BELA sparked controversy. The EFF's decline, Floyd Shivambu's shocking departure to join the MK Party and former President Jacob Zuma accusing the IEC of vote rigging added to the drama. With these events in mind, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Political Analyst Professor Tumi Senokoane about his outlook for South Africa's political landscape in 2025...
The memorial service for 22-year-old Chesnay Keppler is currently underway at the Don Mateman Hall in Eldorado Park, Soweto. Chesnay, a crime prevention warden, tragically lost her life in a brutal shooting allegedly at the hands of her police officer boyfriend, following a domestic dispute on Boxing Day. The accused is now in hospital under police guard after attempting to take his own life upon arrest. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC Reporter Puseletso Mokoena, who is attending the memorial service
The Constitutional Court is set to hear an urgent application from the Mining Affected Communities United in Action, MACUA, to compel the government to rescue and provide aid to illegal miners still underground in Stilfontein, North West. The miners have been stuck for months with reports of severe starvation, dehydration, and chronic illnesses. The government has been accused of downplaying the crisis, claiming the miners can exit voluntarily. Bongiwe Spokesperson, National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, Natjoints spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe
In Mpumalanga, the Department of Health is expected to welcome the new year, with mothers and babies born at Rob Ferreira Hospital in Mbombela. For more on this we are joined on the line by, SABC reporter, Motsebi Monareng
North West premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, has ordered an investigation into possible statutory rape, after a sixteen year old teenager gave birth at one of the local health facilities at Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality. The Premier's spokesperson, Sello Tatai, spoke to SABC reporter, Bongiwe Zwane
The Gauteng Departmenty of Health has welcomed 13 babies, who were born in the province on New Year's Day. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC, reporter Calvin Dludla
The MEC of Health in the Eastern Cape, Ntandokazi Capa, says one of the mothers who gave birth on New Year's Day is 12-years-old. This young mother's baby is among 44 babies born today so far, in hospitals across the province. Capa says they will work with relevant departments such as social development to ensure that someone is held accountable. Bongiwe Zane spoke to MEC Capa
A Limpopo police officer who is accused of several murders so she could collect ten-million rand in life insurance payouts, will start the year in the Matatshe Correctional Facility outside Thohoyandou. Sergeant Rachel Kutumela was arrested while on duty in October for allegedly killing nine people for life insurance payouts. Kutumela stands accused alongside her sister and twenty-seven-year-old daughter. Pimani Baloyi has been following the story and filed this report...
Police and Border Management Authority are continuing with efforts to curb cross border crimes at the Beitbridge Border Post between South Africa and Zimbabwe. Police Deputy Minister, Polly Boshielo, BMA's acting Deputy National Commissioner and other officials are assessing the effectiveness of the Safer Festive Season plans at Beitbridge. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Border Management Authority's Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Rudzani Mpilo
As Johannesburg prepares to ring in the new year, the city's law enforcement agencies are gearing up to ensure a safe and festive celebration. The Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, will today lead Operation Shanela; a multidisciplinary effort to curb violent crimes in Hillbrow and Johannesburg Central. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to City of Johannesburg Public Safety MMC Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku
The Johannesburg Metro Police says it will be in the city centre to enforce by-laws on the sale and usage of fireworks. During this time animals are found injured or in distress due to being fired at with fireworks. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to NSPCA Publicity and Communications Officer, Samantha Stelli
As South Africans prepare to bid farewell to 2024 and welcome the new year, police and other law enforcement agencies are gearing up to ensure a safe and festive celebration. However, the reality of crime and violence often overshadows the joy of this time of year. Bongiwe Zwane spoke National Police Spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe
Jimmy Carter, America's 39th President, has died at the age of 100. He served one term in the Oval Office, from 1976 to 1980 and his achievements include brokering a historic peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. US Correspondent Ira Spitzer has more.
The Democratic Alliance is laying criminal charges against a FlySafair passenger who allegedly hurled racist slurs at the coloured community during a flight from Durban to Cape Town. The incident, which was captured in a viral video, shows the woman directing racial slurs at the flight crew. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to DA Western Cape leader, Tertius Simmers
A 39-year-old man is expected to appear in the Centane Magistrate's Court, in the Eastern Cape province, for allegedly sodomising an 18-year-old disable initiate. The man was arrested following the incident which allegedly took place in one of the initiation schools in Centrane. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
The Special Action Committee for Education is taking the Western Cape Education Department to court today over its plan to cut over 2,400 teaching posts. The Committee is filing an interdict at the Western Cape High Court aimed at restraining the department from implementing these cuts. For more on the legal challenge, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Andre De Bruyn, Head of the Education And Allied Workers Union of South Africa (EUSA) in the Western Cape & Member of the Special Action Committee (SAC)
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers is set to send additional water tankers to Makana Municipality. The residents of Makana spent the Christmas Day without water as the town continued with water-shedding. Old Age homes are reportedly the most affected places in the town. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Gift of the Givers Spokesperson and Project Manager, Ali Sablay
Some residents of Seshego township in Limpopo say communities need to improve their parental role to curb teenage pregnancies. Since, Christmas Day, the community attracts attention after a 13-year-old girl from the area, gave birth. The teenager is amongst 31 young girls under the age of 18, who delivered babies in hospitals across Limpopo. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Avhapfani Munyai
The processing of vehicles and pedestrians passing through the Lebombo Border Post in Mpumalanga is continuing despite the intensifying protests action in Mozambique. The N4 toll road in the Mozambican side is among major roads targeted by the protesters. To look into the situation at the Lebombo Border Post, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi and Political Analyst, Dr Wilker Dias
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa is in the Eastern Cape amidst a devastating initiation season, which has claimed the lives of 27 Initiates. The province has been identified as a hotspot for initiate deaths, prompting the minister's visit to meet with traditional leaders to review strategies to prevent further tragedies. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC Eastern Cape reporter, Lubabalo Dada, who is on the ground to bringing us the latest updates on this crucial gathering
Shack fires in the Western Cape have claimed yet another life. One person has died, in a blaze in the Vrygrond informal settlement near Muizenberg. According to the ward councillor in the Vrygrond area - sixteen structures have been destroyed in the early morning fire. It is the fourth fire incident in the ward this month. On Christmas Eve, a 30- year old man died in Nomzamo in the Strand due to smoke inhalation.
This while, mopping up operations are ongoing in Du Noon, where some 600 people have been displaced. Mlamli Maneli reports...
Mozambique is reeling under its worst election-related violence since its civil war ended 32 years ago. A deadly prison riot in Mozambique's capital, Maputo, has left about 33 people dead and 15 others injured, according to the country's police general commander, Bernardino Rafael. Thousands of inmates reportedly escaped from a maximum-security prison in Maputo yesterday. Authorities have since recaptured 150 prisoners. Elvis Presslin spoke to Director of the Center for Democracy and Human Rights, Professor Adriano Nuvunga
The number of teenagers, who gave birth on Christmas day in Limpopo has decreased from 50 to 31 compared to last year. A total of 172 babies were born on Christmas Day at various hospitals across Limpopo. Amongst the teens giving birth in the province was a 13 year-old girl child. Elvis Presslin spoke to Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba
The Information Regulator has filed an urgent application to halt the annual publishing of the Matric Results in newspapers. The case is expected to be heard on the 7th of January just days before the results of the class of 2024 will be released. Earlier, the information regulator issued an enforcement notice on the department claiming the publishing of the results was in violation of the Protection of Personal Information Act (Popia). Elvis Presslin spoke to Education Activist, Hendrick Makaneta...
Miners who are still underground at a Stilfontein Mine in North West have reportedly resorted to cannibalism to stay alive. This according to a chilling letter that surfaced on Christmas Eve. The desperate miners claim that many of their colleagues from shaft 10 have also mysteriously disappeared while trying to escape. Elvis Presslin spoke to Sabelo Mnguni, National Administrator of the Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA) and Spokesperson for the Stilfontein Crisis Committee.
As most South Africans prepare to ring in the new year, two communities left devastated following two drowning incidents. Two devastating drowning incidents have marred the festive season. On Christmas Day, a child went missing while swimming with friends near the N2 Freeway, Swartkops River Bridge. Despite a swift response from emergency services, the child's body was recovered, and sadly, they were pronounced deceased. In a separate incident, a 53-year-old fisherman was found deceased on rocks along the shoreline at Seaview, Gqeberha. Elvis Presslin spoke to Andrew Ingram, Drowning Prevention Manager at the National Sea Rescue Institute
Operations to process pedestrians and small vehicles is continuing without major challenges at the Lebombo Border Post, in Mpumalanga amid sporadic protests in Mozambique. The processing of trucks has been brought to a complete halt for safety reasons. Border Management Authority Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato says travellers using this port of entry significantly declined on Christmas Eve. Elvis Presslin spoke to by Deputy Commissioner at the Border Management Authority, Jane Thupana
The Eastern Cape is grappling with a dire initiation season, marked by the tragic loss of 20 young lives at various initiation schools. In response to this crisis, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has announced an emergency ministerial meeting to be held in the province this Friday. This urgent gathering aims to address the alarming number of fatalities and find solutions to prevent such incidents in the future. Elvis Presslin spoke to Contralesa Secretary General, Zolani Mkiva...
While most people will be having a warm scrumptious meal on Christmas day, it can be difficult for certain communities, especially the homeless. Some may not be so lucky to even have a plate of food. We now take a look at how the soup kitchens will help the poor celebrate Christmas. Elvis Presslin spoke to Meals on Wheels Area Manager, Boichwarelo Mashishi
Mozambican President elect, Daniel Chapo is ready to lead the electoral reform process in Maputo. He says over the last few days it has become clear that reforms is needed. Mozambique was plunged into a political turmoil after the Constitutional Council validated the 9th October election results. But the opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane rejected the results, saying they were rigged. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mozambican Social and Political Activist, Women Observatory Director, Quitéria Guirengane
Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko will welcome Christmas babies born at the Tembisa Tertiary Hospital east of Johannesburg today. She will joined by Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Njabulo Nzuza. During their visit the officials will also re-opened a newly-renovated female medical ward at the hospital. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Calvin Dludla
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane has called on parents to play their critical role in raising their children. This comea after three 15-year-old girls gave birth on Christmas in the province. Simelene concerns about the high rate of teenage pregnancy. By half-past six this morning, 47 babies had been delivered in the province, that include 21 boys and 26 girls. Among these mothers, are three 15-year-old girls.
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union, POPCRU says it wants traffic police to be nationalised under the Department of Transport. POPCRU says the recent stats of a 3% increase in road fatalities show a need for a unified policing strategy to deal with the problem. Elvis Presslin spoke to POPCRU Spokesperson, Richard Mamabolo
The Mozambican Constitutional Council has declared FRELIMO's candidate, Daniel Chapo, as the winner of the disputed October elections. Since then, the country has seen frequent protests by opposition groups who say the vote was rigged. The confirmation of Chapo's win has raised fears of further protests. Opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, has vowed to intensify the demonstrations. Ditaba Tsotetsi has more. Elvis Presslin spoke to Border Management Authority Deputy Commissioner, Jane Thupana and Zenaida Machado, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch.
Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, has described 2024 as an important year for South Africans as the country celebrated 30 years of democracy. Mashatile delivered the comments in his Christmas message to the nation. While marking 30 years of democracy this year, South Africans also headed to the polls which saw the ANC lose its majority for the first time since 1994. Mashatile also highlighted the scourge of gender-based violence, the impact of drinking and driving and the high cost of living in his Christmas message
The Department of Basic Education has served the Information Regulator with an appeal challenging its decision to prohibit the publication of the 2024 matric results in the media. The move comes after the Regulator issued an infringement notice in November, ordering the department to provide an undertaking that it would not publish the results. Information Regulator Chairperson Advocate Pansy Tlakula, says the enforcement notice remains in effect, despite the court action....
Fleet Company Afrirent has suspended services to the City of Johannesburg due to an unpaid debt of over 90 million rand. The suspension affects more than 4,000 vehicles, including those used by the Johannesburg Metro Police Department and PikitUp. ActionSA in Johannesburg says the suspension affects public safety and Joburg Water services, sparking concerns about road safety and the water crisis during the festive season. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA Johannesburg Regional Chairperson, Sello Mabelebele
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says Eskom is making steady progress towards achieving a 70% energy availability factor (EAF) by 2025. The EAF is a crucial metric that assesses the performance of power stations and their ability to generate electricity efficiently. As the country approaches 300 days without load shedding, Ramokgopa expressed confidence in Eskom's capacity to meet electricity demand. However, he emphasized the need for additional generation to support South Africa's growing economy. Elvis Presslin spoke to Energy expert and Head of the Energy Secretariat at the South African National Energy Development Institute, Professor Sampson Mamphweli...
The Mozambican Constitutional Court is set to proclaim the disputed 9 October general elections. The opposition presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has threatened "chaos" if the constitutional council confirms the initial election results. At least 130 people have been killed in two months of violence. Elvis Presslin spoke to Social and Political Activist, Women Observatory Director, Quitéria Guirengane
Over 16km of traffic can be observed on the Lebombo Border post towards the neighbouring Mozambique. This as today marks the last Friday before Christmas Day. Traffic volumes are expected to increase as road users make their way home to Mozambique through the border post between their country and Mozambique. For the past few months, the border post has been experiencing disruptions due to political unrest in that country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Jane Thupana ...
Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa is today at the Grasmere Toll Plaza (South of Johannesburg) for the Transport department's festive season Road Safety Campaign. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa for an update...
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) says investigations into what caused a broken shaft which led to disruptions in the supply of jet fuel at O.R Tambo International Airport last week are still ongoing. This incident had prevented the pumping of jet fuel from storage tanks to the aprons, which enables the re-fuelling of aircrafts. This caused major disruptions to ACSA'S total network resulting in major delays and cancellation of flights. ACSA CEO, Mpumi Mpofu says ongoing investigations and analysis of the broken shaft may point to the following possibilities...
The Balobedu Royal Family is allegedly taking President Cyril Ramaphosa to court to challenge his decision to recognise Masalanabo Modjadji as Queen Modjadji of the Balobedu royal nation. This follows the Presidency's announcement last Friday, stating that the government recognised the Balobedu queenship on 31 March 2016 under the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act, making it the only legally recognised queenship in the country. Her initial recognition took place at the minor age of 10-years-old but her maternal uncle, held the fort for her as a Regent as she could not legally ascend the throne until she turned 18. In a statement, the Presidency says the legal recognition of Queen Modjadji VII introduces a new chapter and is a moment of great significance to the rich history of Balobedu Nation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pimani Baloyi in Limpopo.
The Eskom board laments a weak balance sheet, tariffs that do not reflect costs, lack of sustainability and corruption among key issues affecting the power utility's finances.
Limpopo police officer, Rachel Kutumela, is expected to resume her bail application in the Polokwane Magistrate's Court today. The 40-year old is accused of killing six people and collecting more than R10 million following a killing spree that started in 2019. Kutumela is expected to appear with her co-accused and daughter, Flora Shokane and her sister, Anna Shokane. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo...
Spaza shop owners have welcomed government's decision to extend the registration period to the 28th of February next year. The 21day period to register spazashop ended at 5pm yesterday. Spaza shop owners are still queuing at the Civic center in Jabulani in Soweto after the centre ran out of application forms yesterday. One of the spaza shop owners earlier caught up with our reporter Hasina Gori. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SA Spaza President, Bheki Twala.
A KwaZulu-Natal man who confessed to killing his girlfriend in a social media post was found hanging from a tree on this morning. Hw was not far from where he apparently stabbed the woman to death. Police say the couple had a "domestic-related altercation which escalated to murder. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda says police responded to reports of a murder in the Malangeni area of Umzinto yesterday.
The Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act may take some time before it is implemented in schools. Experts say the regulations - that will guide the implementation of the Act - could take a while to be finalised. The Act was signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in September, but some clauses were put on ice for three months for further consultation. The government of national unity's Clearing House Mechanism handed its report on clauses 4 and 5 which caused contention, to the president last week. It is expected that language and admissions policies of schools will be guided by the regulations of the Act. Zalene Merrington reports....
City of Johannesburg Mayor, Dada Morero says that residents of Gauteng will have water running in their taps before Christmas. He was briefing the media at the Johannesburg Water Water's reservoir and towers in Roodepoort, north of Johannesburg on the recovery of their Water systems. Residents have been without water since the long weekend following Rand Water's 86hr water maintenance programe. Executive Mayor Morero
The courtroom where former Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda is expected to appear, is reportedly packed to capacity. Gwamanda is expected before the Protea Magistrate's Court, in Soweto, on fraud charges after he allegedly defrauded Soweto residents in an alleged funeral policy scheme. Some of his alleged victims opened a case last year and Gwamanda handed himself over to the police on the 18 October. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC News reporter, Monique Lewis
At least 34 people have been killed by Cyclone Chido in Mozambique since it made landfall there. Mozambique has began a rebuilding and cleanup effort following the cyclone, which struck the south-western Indian Ocean over the weekend. Sakina Kamwendo Chief of Communication of UNICEF Mozambique, Guy Taylor
Authorities in Limpopo continue to monitor the traffic flow across major routes in the province. Sofar, no major or fatal road crashes have been reported. Avhapfani Munyai reports. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) spokesperson Simon Zwane,
Frustrated spaza shop owners are queuing at municipal offices across the country in an attempt to register their businesses ahead of today's deadline which was set by President Cyril Ramaphosa. In Bloemfontein in the Free State, spaza shop owners say municpal officials have sent them back and forth many times on grounds that their documents are no complete. Meanwhile in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, some business owners have been turned away as municipal officials that were supposed to assist them are not available. The Black Entrepreneurs Alliance has therefore called on the government to simplify the registration process, provide support and education. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Alliance's CEO, Refilwe Monageng
President Cyril Ramaphosa is delivering the keynote address to mark the National Day of Reconciliation today. This year's event will be held at a sportsground in Vredendal in the Matzikama Local Municipality in the Western Cape. The theme for the 2024 National Day of Reconciliation is Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures. The National Day of Reconciliation is a public holiday in South Africa held annually on 16 December. The holiday came into effect in 1995 after the end of apartheid, intending to foster reconciliation and national unity for the country.
Eastern Cape police have launched an investigation into the causes of two separate car accidents, which claimed the lives 17 people since. In the first incident 14 people were killed when two vehicles including a minibus taxi collided on the N9 route, outside Graaf Reinet. In the other incident a car and a van collided killing three people and injuring two others wounded on the R-61 near Bizana yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eastern Cape Transport spokesperson, Unathi Binqose.
Passengers and small vehicles are being processed at the Lebombo border post between South Africa and Mozambique. Meanwhile, the processing of trucks at the border post in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, remains suspended. This is due to safety concerns as post-elections unrest continues in some parts of Mozambique. Protesters in that country have reportedly been targeting these trucks to block the roads. Those travelling to Mozambique have been advised to use the Mananga border post between South African and eSwatini. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News reporter, Michael Mdluli
SACP leader, Solly Mapaila says the ANC has failed to treat its alliance partners with respect and equality. Mapaila is tabling the Political Report to the SACP Special National Congress underway at Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg. Mapaila says the electoral decline of the ANC is worrying. The unfortunate part is that they never had an opportunity to discuss this with the ANC. Jon Gericke spoke to former premier of Gauteng and former Cosatu General-Secretary, Mbhazima Shilowa
Over two-thousand branch members of the EFF have gathered at the University of Johannesburg's Soweto Campus in order to register for the party's third National People's Assembly. The conference will start tomorrow at the Nasrec Expo Centre with party leader Julius Malema's political report. Besides electing new leadership for the party, the delegates will discuss policy propositions in 12 commissions on issues including the organisation's character and re-design, land, health and gender struggles. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC News senior reporter, Busi Chimombe...
The South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco) is marching to the Union Buildings. They are demanding immediate action by the South African Government on illegal immigration, porous borders, illegal mining, illegal spaza shops, the big electricity tariff increase, the spiraling crime, growing unemployment and gender-based violence, among other issues. Jon Gericke spoke to Gauteng Provincial Chairperson of SANCO, Abram Mashishi
Liquor traders in Limpopo have voiced strong rejection of the proposed re-introduction of a curfew on the sale and distribution of alcohol across the province during festive season. Under the Limpopo Liquor Act of 2009 outlets must close at ten o'clock during festive season. The police and government want to implement the clause to minimise crime and road fatalities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sekhukhune Liquor Trader Association Deputy Chairperson, Sello Mokwana
The Visually Impaired Educators Forum of South Africa is marching to the Department of Basic Education in Pretoria in order to raise awareness over challenges they face in the education system. Some of the issues they hope to raise is the lack of sufficient braille textbooks, access to digital materials such as talking calculators and support for educators. Sakina Kamwemdo spoke to chairperson of the Visually Impaired Educators Forum of South Africa, Eugene Matshwane
International Relations Minister, Ronald Lamola, has highlighted South Africa's priority areas at the first major gathering of the G20 Sharpas meeting currently ongoing in Sandton Johannesburg. This follows the country assuming the position of president of the G20 group of countries at the start of December. Welcoming guests from the world's largest developing and developed economies, Lamola has committed to influencing the G20 group of countries to adhere to strong multilateral institutions when dealing with international conflicts...
Syrians awakened today to a hopeful but uncertain future, after rebels seized the capital Damascus and President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia, following 13 years of civil war and more than 50 years of his rule. The advance of a militia alliance of opposition forces, marked one of the biggest turning points for the Middle East in generations. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula says the disbandment of the party's Provincial Executive Committees in Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu Natal is not a foregone conclusion. This follows fears that the two provincial structures could be disbanded after their dismal performance in the May 29 polls. Although the ANC in Gauteng is still leading the provincial government, it only scooped 35 percent of the votes -- while in KZN the ANC is in the third place, after garnering 17 percent of the votes. The ANC NWC is meeting the Gauteng leadership after meeting their KZN counterparts last week. Ntebo Mokobo has more...
The Johannesburg Water Crisis seems to deepen with more communities finding themselves without water. This while Johannesburg Water is grappling with emergency maintenance work to its failing infrastructure in various communities. Residents are also complaining that the water tankers are not provided to them timeously. Its also reported that Rand Water will be conducting maintenance at the Eikenhof pump station, which is said to be the main feeder to 70% of the City of Johannesburg, from 13 – 16 December, resulting in an 86-hour shutdown. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg Water Managing Director, Ntshavheni Mukhwevho...
Walus, killed Hani in 1993. In November 2022, the Constitutional Court found then-justice minister Ronald Lamola's decision to refuse Walus parole in 2020 had been irrational and set it aside, paving the way for his release from prison the following month, after 28 years behind bars. Jon Gericke spoke Dr. Alex Mashilo, the SACP Central Committee member and National Spokesperson
There allegations of rape and crimes being committed at the Mfuleni police station in Cape Town. it is alleged that a policeman recently raped a woman in a holding cell on the premises. This is the station which is said to have the the 4th highest reported GBV cases, 80 sexual offences and 66 rapes in just three months. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Corbn August and Nobuntu Hlazo Webster - BOSA Deputy Leader (MP)
The rescue operations in the south Sabie disused mine shaft has resumed. A total number of 41 illegal miners have been retrieved since the beginning of the operation. Three bodies were retrieved on Wednesday. Over a hundred illegal miners were reported to be underground the shaft which is about 180 meters deep.Jon Gericke spoke to Mpumalanga provincial coordinator of police diving services, Captain JC Potgieter,
The ANC says it has mandated government to explore ways of ensuring that spaza shops in the country are reserved for locals. This comes in the wake of calls by locals, saying foreign nationals must close down their shops and leave the country. This follows the recent deaths of over 20 children from food-related illnesses after they had reportedly consumed food bought at some foreign-owned spaza shops. ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gauteng Division Advocate Sibongile Mzinyathi has outlined the Division's overall performance, focusing on tackling priority crimes in Gauteng. She aims to focus on progress in strengthening the Division's capacity, including dealing with major high-profile cases the division is currently working on in various courts across Gauteng. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Gauteng Division, Adv Sibongile Mzinyathi
A hung council has once again emerged following yesterday's municipal-wide by-elections at the Thabazimbi Local Municipality, in Limpopo. The Electoral Commission of South Africa results portal has revealed that none of the contesting political parties and independent candidates garnered sufficient votes to govern on their own. Sakina Kamwenso spoke to SABC News Specialist Researcher, Maswele Ralebona....
Pilots affiliated to the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA) and the National Transport Movement Pilots Forum have downed tools on a wage dispute. This is a nationwide strike action with the workers demanding a 15% wage increase coupled with benefits while SAA is offering 8%.The strike action comes at a peak festive season likely to affect flights. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter, Katlego Legodi joins
About 150 miners are reported to be trapped inside an abandoned mine in Sabie. Six of the miners are out and three are reportedly dead. Various SAPS units, the Emergency Medical Services, officials from both the Health and Home Affairs Departments are on site. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Motsebi Monareng
Namibia has elected its first female leader, with Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah declared the winner of last week's presidential election. The 72-year-old Nandi-Ndaitwah won with 57% of the vote, according to official results, defying predictions that she might be forced into a runoff. Opposition parties have rejected the results after last Wednesday's election was marred by technical problems, including shortages of ballot papers and other issues, causing election officials to extend voting until Saturday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to analyst and Senior advisor at the Nordic Africa Institute Prof Henning Melber.
A number of first-time voters are among those casting their votes in today's by-elections at the Thabazimbi Local Municipality, in Limpopo. More than 51-thousand registered voters are due to cast their votes at 57 voting stations, after 12 wards were left vacant when Premier Phophi Ramathuba dissolved in October. Ramathuba's decision came after years of political instability. Among the first-time voters if eighteen-year-old, Anna Kganaga, who cast her vote at Krausa primary school, in ward 7. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo and Senior SABC elections researcher, Maswele Ralebone
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Busisiwe Memela-Khambula has been suspended. The Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Tolashe announced a precautionary suspension for her suspension on full pay. This pending the outcome of the investigation into her appointment. Minister Tolashe says the precautionary suspension is prompted by the need to conduct investigation without hindrance or interference given Memela-Khambula's position as CEO of SASSA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Paseka Letsatsi, Spokesperson for South African Social Security Agency
US President-elect, Donald Trump is sending a political message to BRICS countries that he's not simply going to accept the current situation. That's the view of Chris Opperman – the Operating Partner at Washington-based C5 Capital and a specialist in investment facilitation, diplomacy and international relations in Africa and the Middle East. At the weekend, Trump threatened 100% tariffs against BRICS nations if they sought to undermine the U.S. dollar in global trade. Trump said that the United States required commitment from BRICS nations that they would neither create a new BRICS Currency or back another currency to replace the U.S. Dollar in international trade. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The National prosecuting Authority in Gauteng, says it is confident that it has a watertight case against the man accused of raping and murdering a six-year-old girl, in Orlando, Soweto. Mozambican national, Pethe Simiao, appeared briefly at the Protea Magistrates' Court on this morning, where his case was postponed to the 27th of January 2025. SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo is following the story...
Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Mzwanele Nhyontso, says the high cost of land continues to be one of the stumbling blocks to the pace of land restitution. The Commission on Restitution of Land Rights reflected on 30 years of the Restitution of Land Rights Act at the Freedom Park Heritage Site in Pretoria on Monday (2/12). The Act was formed to restore land rights to individuals and communities dispossessed due to past racially discriminatory 1913 Native Land Act. Lerato Makola filed this report...
President Cyril Ramaphosa, has outlined South Africa's priorities in the course of its presidency of the G20 under the theme 'Fostering solidarity, equality, and sustainable development'. The G20 plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues. South Africa has assumed presidency of the G20, taking from Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Ramaphosa said that South Africa's presidency of G20- will focus on issues including climate change and the global geo- political conflicts, addressing poverty, unemployment as well as Africa's development.
The SA economy took a step back in the third quarter, with GDP shrinking by 0.3% from July to September. The agriculture sector led the decline, while transport, trade, and government services also contributed to the slowdown. Here is the Chief Director for National Accounts at Stats SA Bokang Vumbukani-Lepolesa, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Independent Economist, Elize Kruger
Parliament's Trade, Industry and Competition Committee wants commercial banks to appear before it early next year, to iron out various issues. That's according to the chairperson of the committee, Mzwandile Masina. He spoke to the media during a briefing of the chairpersons of Parliament's economic cluster, which consists of among others Transport, Trade, Industry and Competition, Agriculture and Minerals and Petroleum Resources. Zalene Merrington reports...
Tshwane Mayor, Nasiphi Moya, says the city has reached an agreement with Eskom to pay the over 6 billion Rand municipal debt over a period of 5 years. This as she was updating the nation on the city's recovery progresses. She spoke to SakinaKamwendo
The ANC National Working Committee meeting called to discuss the challenges facing the KZN Provincial leadership is set to begin shortly at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg. The meeting follows a visit by the top brass of the ANC to KZN last month to meet with the PEC and regional leaders. This after the election setback in that province which saw the ANC losing its majority with the newly formed MK Party becoming its main rival. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ntebo Mokobo and Former Gauteng premier, Mbhazima Shilowa
Freedom Park recently hosted a cultural event aimed at reviving African knowledge systems and celebrating African heritage. Participants deliberated on the understanding and practicing of the African Calendar – Inzalo y'Langa. Led by historian Mkhulu Nsingiza and other esteemed speakers, the program sought to highlight the historical and spiritual importance of the African calendar, creating a platform for educators, historians, and students to reflect on African identity and cultural practices. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Mkhulu Nsingiza , historian and CEO of the Zindzi Mandela Foundation as well as Dr Jane Mufamadi,Freedom Park CEO
The conclusion of lobola negotiations symbolises the formal union of two families, and once the negotiations are concluded the couple is considered as married under the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act (1998). This also means, unless otherwise stated in an antenuptial contract, couples are in fact married in community of property, and that assets – like a home or car –and liabilities – like debt – are equally shared. While this deeply rooted tradition is widely embraced, fewer people are aware of how customary marriage (or marriage in community of property) can impact current and future homeownership. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Director at STBB Attorneys, Hopewell Sathekge
Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu and deputy minister of police Polly Boshielo will get an updated progress report on measures taken that will lead to the resurfacing of illegal miners still underground in Stilfontein in the North West. Jon Gericke spoke to national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe
The electoral commission of Namibia has extended voting in areas where challenges persisted on election day. The announcement follows concerns raised by political parties, that party agents may continue to experience logistical challenges. In response to the announcement, the National General Secretary of the Independent Patriots for Change says it can not rule out the possibility of approaching the electoral court in seeking intervention. Over one-million Namibians cast their vote earlier this week to elect the country elected new leaders. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC correspondent, Nixon Katembo
The Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Tolashe, has committed to a thorough review of its entire grant infrastructure, focusing on identifying and mitigating potential vulnerabilities, ensuring the security of beneficiary data and safeguarding public resources. The review follows a recent investigation , which found several medium vulnerabilities in the department's SRD grant system. The probe was actioned by Parliament, after Stellenbosch University students unveiled what they have termed mass grant and identity fraud with government's R350 social relief grant. Jon Gericke spoke to SASSA spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi
The festive season is upon us, and that means that all kinds of "special deals" are available at various stores and online shops. However, The National Consumer Commission (NCC) is warning consumers to exercise caution when interacting with certain online suppliers during this Black Friday, the festive season and beyond. The commission says consumers must be aware of scammers and cyber criminals while making online purchases. Jon Gericke spoke to Ayanda Nyathi, who spent most of the morning at the Mall of Africa, North of Johannesburg...
Police have arrested eleven suspects believed to be part of syndicate that was involved in an attempted theft of a R35m transformer at Laudium substation. According to police, a Tshwane municipal employee, was also nabbed as part of the syndicate. Jon Gericke spoke to Tshwane metro spokesperson, Selby Bokaba
The political standoff in Mozambique has intensify. This as the expected meeting with the four presidential candidates to resolve the post election crisis was postponed. Mozambican President, Fillipe Nyusi convened the meeting with Daniel Chapo from FRELIMO, Ossufo Momade of RENAMO, Lutero Simango from Mozambique Democratic and Independent candidate, Venancio Mondlane . However, Mondlane, who was supposed to attend it virtually, did not, claiming his conditions were not met. Jon Gericke spoke to a Social and Political Activist Women Observatory Director, Quitéria Guirengane
Johannesburg water utility, Joburg Water, says they have stepped up their game when it comes to water supply and repair initiatives. Johannesburg Water has also announced its intention to increase water restrictions to some high demand areas in an bid to quell the ongoing water crisis. This after severe water shortages sparked days of protests in areas including Westbury in Johannesburg. The water utility earlier briefed the media, on what it called aggressive interventions in dealing with water supply challenges. Jon Gericke spoke to WaterCAN Executive Manager, Ferrial Adam
Former President, Thabo Mbeki, has called on delegates at the Cape Town Conversation, to come up with meaningful results, to promote the agenda of the Global South. The conference is taking place in Somerset West, outside Cape Town. The two-day event, organised by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, and the Observer Research Foundation, is a platform to serve as a meeting place for voices and stakeholders of the Global South. It will facilitate issues of global governance, where new challenges, possible solutions and a map for the future are discussed. Zalene Merrington reports the conference is taking place as South Africa takes up the presidency of the G20 next year....
Presidential and parliamentary elections is under way in Namibia. The election is expected to be the most competitive election yet for the ruling Swapo party. It would also determine whether Swapo, which has been in power since independence in 1990, retains its dominance or becomes another former liberation movement to lose its grip on power. For the latest we are now joined on the line by our correspondent in Nambia, Nixon Tasakana
Lead investigating officer in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial Bongani Gininda has returned to be back in the witness stand, at the Pretoria High Court. Yesterday, defence counsel Charles Mnisi, questioned why only two out of six witnesses were called to attend the identity parade of the accused. Meyiwa was gunned down at singer Kelly Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus in Gauteng in October 2014. However Khumalo who was the soccer star's former girlfriend, her mother and sister were among the witnesses excluded from attending the identity parade following the arrest of the five accused in the trial. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane
Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says at least 400-thounsand non-paying customers have come forward and are now legally connected to the grid. Ramokgopa was addressing the media earlier and giving un update on the process of recoding customers to pre-paid electricity metres. He says Eskom now will be able to collect a minimum of an additional 440 Million rands a month...
Residents of Westbury and Corronationville in Johannesburg, are calling on government to urgently intervene in the water crisis in their area. This morning scores of residents embarked on a protest over daily water cuts for the past four years. They have used rocks and debris to blockade several roads. Police are monitoring the situation. Mellissa Davids is one of the local community leaders
Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile says his mid-term budget will make additional resources to deal with unavoidable costs. Maile has just delivered the provinces medium term budget policy statement in Johannesburg. He says he intends to availing 2.1 billion Rand for the unforeseeable circumstances , to protect frontline services and avoid retrenchments. Maile explains some his budget allocations....
Advocate Kameel Premhid, who is representing the EFF, has argued in the Constitutional Court that Parliament acted unlawfully and irrationally when it voted not to enforce an independent panel's recommendation that President Cyril Ramaphosa should face an impeachment investigation over the 2020 break-in at his Phala Phala farm. The Constitutional Court is hearing the EFF's application against the Speaker of the National Assembly over the Section 89 panel report. In 2022, the National Assembly rejected a motion to refer the report to an impeachment committee. This report, compiled by an independent panel led by former Chief Justice, Sandile Ngcobo, investigated allegations against President Cyril Ramaphosa after a large sum in foreign currency was stolen from his Phala Phala farm in Limpopo. The report found that there was a prima facie case for which the President had to answer.
Police have been deployed at the Lusikisiki Magistrate's Court, in the Eastern Cape, ahead of the appearance of the seven men accused of the mass murder of 18 people in Lusikisiki, earlier this year. The accused arrived at court under heavy armed guard, early this morning. The men are charged with 18 counts of murder and the possession of unlicensed fire-arms.The Eastern Cape Police Commissioner, Lt Gen, Nomthetheleli Mene, has joined the public in court. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi..
The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has dismissed the main application launched by organisation, Society for the Protection of our Constitution amid the operation by law enforcement officials to have suspected illegal miners resurface at the Stilfontein mine shaft in the North West. During the hearing last Thursday, the applicant argued that the intercepting of essentials goods by police, puts the suspected illegal miners at risk of dying from starvation and experiencing dehydration. They also argued that the illegal miners were being denied access to medication for chronic illnesses. Zoleka Qodashe is here in studio to tell us more...
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu is releasing the second quarter crime statistics for the 2024/25 financial year. Mchunu will also be reflecting on some successes of the 7th at the SAPS Gauteng headquarters in Parktown, Johannesburg.
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is today meeting with various stakeholders to discuss the alleged growing scourge of sexual violence against young girls in the North West province. The commission says that there are growing concerns about increasing cases of sexual violence that are not reported to the police, but rather resolved by traditional leaders, who often impose fines on the perpetrators in the form of money or a cow instead of the incident being reported as crime. For more we are joined on the line by Javu Baloyi, Spokesperson for the Commission for Gender Equality...
United Nations Development Programme is set to hold a summit for its global leaders in Johannesburg, next week. As the world moves closer to the year 2030, the summit seeks to highlight the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which serve as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP South Africa, Gloria Kiondo
Disgruntled community members of Orlando in Soweto have raised concerns over the lack of communication from Eskom officials. Hundreds of Eskom customers continue to stand in long queues as the Sunday deadline to recode meters looms. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Calvin Dludla, who has been monitoring this story for us
The families of some of the illegal miners are pleading with government to retrieve their loved ones from shaft 11 in Stilfontein in North West. They made this plea during a media briefing organised by civic and labour organisastion's. Whilst government refute the numbers, community representatives are adamant about thousands of illegal miners, still in need of retrieving. With government's retrieval operation being done in stages, families say their loved ones are in a dire need of food, water and medication. Sentleeng Lehihi reports
Electricity and Energy minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says there will be no extension for prepaid electricity consumers to re-code their meter should they fail to do it by the 24th of November. Ramokgopa was briefing the media on the pre-paid meter re-coding and the Integrated Resource Plan earlier today. He says Eskom has gone over and above to inform consumers about the upgrades and even extended their working hours. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Daphne Mokoena,Eskom's Spokesperson...
Economists have welcomed the latest drop in consumer price inflation which is a a four year low from three-point-eight percent in September to two-point-eight in October 2024. The CPI now stands at its lowest since June 2020 during the COVID 19 pandemic when the rate was two-point-two percent. Falling fuel prices remain the primary factor behind the slowdown. Here is Patrick Kelly, Chief Director for Price Statistics at Stats SA explaining. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Economist at Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt
Some residents in Low's Creek have built their structures on top of the Sasol gas pipeline from Mozambique putting their lives at risks. The local authorities have engaged with the households instructing them to vacate the place since it is dangerous to have structures built on top of the pipeline. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Mayor of Ehlazeni District Municipality, Terrance Shabangu
South Africa will take over the presidency of the G20 group. This will be the first time an African country is leading this group of powerful nations. Today in Rio de Janerio, Brazil, the Brazilian President Lula da Silva will officially handover to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The president has promised to continue to push for the interests of the developing South countries. Meanwhile, the president of the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP 29, Mukhtar Babayev, has warned that initiatives to mitigate the effects of climate change could stall if governments refuse to compromise. SABC News International Editor, Sophie Mokoena, joins us now in studio and SABC reporter, Ditaba Tsotetsi, who is following the conference for us in Azerbaijan.
Police say the illegal miners in Stilfontein, in the North West, are not trapped underground by are rather trying to avoid arrest from the police. The police insist that they will not tolerate criminality while the miners continue to beg for food and water to be let into he mine. The standoff between the two was triggered to police's operation Vala Mgodi which blocked the supply of foods and water underground. Police say the remain on standby to arrest or assist those who need medical attention. National police spokesperson, Brigadier, Athlenda Mathe explains and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Zoleka Qodashe...
A task team established last year to deal with illegal mining, Operation Vala uMgodi, has identified 12 non-operational mines in the Greater Giyani and Malamulele areas as hotspots for illegal mining activities. The mines ceased their gold mining operations over 30 years ago during the Gazankulu homeland administration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier, Hlulani Mashaba
Soweto residents and Operation Dudula members are blocking foreign spaza shop owners from registering their spaza shops in Jabulani municipal offices in Soweto. This follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement that all spaza shops must register with their municipalities within 21 days. The group is picketing outside the municipal offices. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Operation Dudula President, Zandile Dabula
Brazil is hosting the G20 summit from today and tomorrow. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the country's statement at the G20 leaders summit in Rio De Janeiro. Ramaphosa will focus on fighting hunger and poverty and the reform of the institutions of global governance. Brazil which is chairing the global platform. SABC News International Editor, Sophie Mokoena spoke to joins Sakina Kamwendo
The South African Communist Party (SACP) will use its December conference to review its decades-long relationship with the ANC over concerns that the partnership has undermined its political independence and diluted its influence. The party will gather for its fifth special national congress in Ekurhuleni in December in part to discuss how the ANC has blurred its identity and limited its ability to work effectively with the working class. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACP's spokesperson, Alex Mashilo
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu has arrived in Stilfontein in the North West where an estimated 4000 illegal miners remain trapped underground. This as police have been conducting operation Vala Umgodi in the area by blocking supply routes of water and food to the miners. Local community members have since been volunteering to rescue the trapped miners while the police remain on standby to arrest them once on the surface. Before we bring you the latest from the mine, earlier on I caught up with Masibulele Naki, regional secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers in the North West who gave us a brief personal history of the mine...
Limpopo Premier, Phophi Ramathuba is expected to appear before the Health Professions Council of South Africa. This is over her utterances captured on video to a patient from Zimbabwe in 2022 in which she is alleged to have said that Zimbabwe does not assist with money to care for its nationals being treated in Limpopo hospitals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole
Open Secrets is calling on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to urgently probe alleged 'looted Congolese funds' funneled into SA properties. In 2023, Open Secrets and Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa lodged a complaint with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) seeking a seizure and forfeiture order against properties believed to have been purchased with corrupt cash by relatives and associates of former DRC president Joseph Kabila. Open Secrets says South African authorities failed to follow up on the complaint despite efforts to improve money laundering. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Abby May, Investigator at Open Secrets.
City of Cape Town authorities and police officials have arrested five people for allegedly running an unlicensed food manufacturing operation in the Mfuleni area. After receiving a tip-off, authorities inspected the premises and they discovered sausages being processed and packaged in unsanitary conditions posing a significant health risk to consumers. Sakina Kamwedo spoke to City of Cape Town's Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith...
Police in the Eastern Cape are searching for four children between the ages of four and seven who went missing at Madamini village outside KwaBhaca in the Eastern Cape. The Siganga family says the children were last seen playing outside their homestead on Sunday afternoon. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi
Concerned community members around the Stilfontein area in the North West where around 400 illegal miners remain trapped undergroung say if food and water is not allowed into the mines, they will rescue dead bodies. This as community volunteers continue to risk their own lives and rescue trapped miners. At least five miners have been rescued and brought to the surface as they were too weak to get to the surface on their own because they have been without water and food for week. This after the police and the SANDF blocked off those who deliver their supplies underground through operation 'Vala Umgodi'. One volunteer who was preparing to go underground a short while ago says government is to blame for the root cause of this situation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zebilon Maine and chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, Chris Nissen
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has resumed with operations at the Lebombo port of entry. This comes after BMA temporarily halted operations at the Lebombo port of entry due to ongoing protests. Protests in Mozambicans started after the opposition rejected the results of the recent elections. According to the opposition, last month's elections were rigged in favour of the governing FRELIMO. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amnesty International Mozambique campaigner, Cidia Chissungo
Two police officers have been shot and wounded at the Alexandra police station north of Johannesburg. It is believed that a suspect was shot and killed allegedly by the police, who were retaliating after the suspect fired shots at them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Calvin Dludla
Mozambican customs officials confirmed that demonstrations have started in that country. The presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane of the opposition PODEMOS party, announced three more days of protests starting today. He encouraged supporters to target trade routes with neighboring South African and Zimbabwe.
Community members around Stilfontein in the North West have called on government to urgently assist in the rescue of suspected illegal miners who are trapped underground. This as they prepare to use a rope to pull out Zama zamas who have not had food nor water ever since the police, together with the SANDF, cut off supply routes to the miners. Its estimated around four thousand miners remain underground while some have allegedly died of suspected starvation dehydration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zebilon Maine and by North West police spokesperson Brigadier, Sabata Mokgwabone
Residents of KwaMashu, north of Durban are calling for the closure of spaza shops owned by foreign nationals. This after teachers at a KwaMashu school, who have started to inspect snacks children bought at spaza shops, found capsules inside a sealed packet of chips. There have been several cases of food poisoning in KwaZulu-Natal, since last month. In another case an oThongathi family fell ill, shortly after drinking cold drinks bought at a spaza shop. Fanele Mhlongo reports….
SAFA president, Danny Jordaan and two others, were expected to appear at the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in the Palm Ridge Magistrate, on Wednesday. This follows alleged reports of his arrest for fraud and theft of one-point-three million rands. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports reporter, Percy Nkatlo.
Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has defended his decision to withdraw the SABC Bill. The decision has triggered mixed reaction. Parliament's Communications Committee Chairperson has described the Minister's decision as ill-advised. As Mercedes Besent reports, the Bill seeks to repeal the current Broadcasting Act, and to continuously regulate the existence of the corporation...
According to Statistics South Africa (STATS SA) there has been an increase of 294 000 in jobs for South Africans in Quater 3 of this year to 16.9 million of employed people. Stats SA reports that South Africa's unemployment rate has decreased by 1.4 percent to 32.1 percent in quarter three of this year (2024). Statistics South Africa has just released the third quarter employment statistics a few minutes ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nothando Magudulela...
The South African government has affirmed its call for an end to the genocidal war that is currently ongoing in Gaza in the Middle East. This position was emphaphised by International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola who has been addressing the media on key issues pertaining to the implementation of the country's foreign policy. Lamola also touched on the country's position on the political unrest in neighbouring Mozambique and the ethnic conflict in Sudan. Lamola says the spreading of disinformation on South Africa's position and its case against Israel at the Internation Court of Justice is aimed at drawing attention away from the genocidal crimes currently ongoing in Gaza...
The trial of alleged underworld bosses, Jerome Booysen, André Naude and 13 others has been postponed to next Monday in the High Court in Cape Town. This after Naude, who is accused number three, is recoverimg from illness. He was due to attend trial yesterday but his lawyer told the court that her client was hospitalised. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Andile Mbanjwa
Transport MEC in KwaZulu-Natal, Siboniso Duma is engaging the All Truck Drivers Forum together with the Allied South Africa on their planned shutdown of the country's major highways today. The Forum had threatened to take to the streets over their concerns about foreign national being hired as truck drivers above local truck drivers. The Road Traffic Inspectorate in KZN says all roads are clear on the N3 corridor in the province despite minor disruptions in the Harrismith area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ndabezinhle Sibiya, spokesperson for MEC for Transport and Human Settlements
Not paying child maintenance could prevent you from getting credit. This, thanks to a Memorandum of Understanding that was signed between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and other partners. The MOU, called the Maintenance Online Listing of Defaulters, will ensure that the details of defaulting individuals are handed over to the credit bureau and other credit providers. Zalene Merrington reports...
Close to thirty people that were arrested for public violence after looting spaza shops belonging to foreign nationals are set to appear before the Bloemfontein Magistrate's court today. Residents of Manguang went on a rampage after learners from Ihobe Primary School fell ill and were transported to local health care facilities. The learners had consumed suspected poisoned snacks and sweets. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Makgala Masiteng.
Community members in Soul City informal settlement, in Kagiso, west of Johannesburg are claiming that a nine year old boy is in hospital, after being shot by police from the Kagiso police station. According to residents in the area the police officers entered the informal settlement on Saturday and began looting spaza shops, and when questioned their actions an altercation began between community members and the police. During that incident, police allegedly fired live ammunition and an astray bullet hit the 9 year old boy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane
The Correctional Services Department says two of the accused in the Senzo Meyiwa case are high risk offenders hence they remain incarcerated at C-Max section of the KgosiMampuru prison in Tshwane. MthobisiMncube and FisokuhleNtuli filed an urgent urgent application at the Pretoria High Court - seeking the court to rule against their isolated incarceration as it violates their rights. The court did not entertain the application of Ntuli saying it is not urgent. The department through it's lawyer LebogangMadiba maintains that Mncube's incarceration is in compliance with the law insofar as he is a convicted murderer, he has been involved in aggressive crimes and is part of a high profile case. Pearl Magubane has more
Newly-elected Botswana's President Advocate, Duma Boko says he is humbled by the support and faith shown to him by the people of the republic. President Boko took his oath of office a short while ago during his inauguration ceremony currently taking place at the capital Gaborone. This after the long-time ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) lost its power in recent elections to the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) after 58 years of governance. President Boko says he is a direct product of the Batswana people....
ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula is expected to lead a march in Tshwane today. The party says the march is set to highlight the ANC's commitment to address community concerns and advancing transformative policies for social justice, economic equity, and improved service delivery. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sibahle Motha...
Amnesty International has called on the African Union together with countries within the SADec region to immediately intervene in the political unrest currently ongoing in neighbouring Mozambique. At least thirty people are reported to have been killed with dozens more injured. This as thousands took to the streets yesterday demanding a recount of the recent election which saw the return of the 49 year rule of the Frelimo party which was declared the winner of the disputed recent elections. Security forces have since been using tear gas and reported live ammunition to suppress the protests. Amnesty International's Deputy Director for East and Southern Africa, Khanyo Farisè caught up with Ayanda Nyathi earlier on our sister TV programme, the Agenda...
The two men who were recently arrested in connection with the murder of five members of the Seti family, in Bityi, in the Eastern Cape province, have abandoned their bail application. Mphumzeni Ncambe-Dodobala and Lukhanyo Xolisa Gam made a brief appearance in court this morning on a range of charges, including five counts of murder. The pair are accused of gunning down the family about three weeks ago. SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude has more...
The President of the Republic of Botswana, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, has officially declared tomorrow, Friday the 8th of November 2024 as a paid public holiday for citizens. This is intended to allow Batswana to attend the historic moment, being the inauguration of Botswana's new and 6th president, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dikarabo Ramadubu who is in Botswana and following this story very closely for us...
Former EFF Chairperson, Advocate Dali Mpofu has announced his departure from the party to join uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party. Mpofu says he believes the MK Party is the only vehicle to achieve unity and true emancipation. Meanwhile, EFF leader, Julius Malema says all is well, the party will keep on standing and rising. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Sandile Swana.
Sporadic protests in Mozambique have kicked-off ahead of the much-anticipated march to the Capital of Maputo. Twenty-four people are confirmed to have died in violent clashes with security forces as opposition supporters demonstrate against what they say is a fraudulent election win by Frelimo, the party that has ruled Mozambique since 1975. The Lebombo entry post remains closed as trucks transporting goods remain stuck for kilometers on each end of the border. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Egidio Vaz Raposo, Political analyst and Media Scholar at the Centre for Media Studies, SABC reporter, Tumelo Machogo and Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa at Amnesty International, Khanyo Farise
Frustrated travelers still remain stuck on the Lebombo Border Post with Mozambique as mayhem continues in major cities such as Maputo. Earlier the Border Management Authority took a decision to temporarily close the border on the South African side due to safety concerns. Truck operators transporting goods have formed long queues while those seeking to renew their documents remain stranded. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr Mike Masiapato
INTRO: The Mankweng Magistrate's Court, outside Polokwane, in Limpopo has postponed the case against pig farmer Zacharia Olivier and two co-accused. Olivier and his employees, Rudolf De Wet and William Musora remain in custody following their alleged involvement in the August 2024 murder of Maria Makgato and Kudzai Ndlovu. SABC reporter Rendani Raliphaswa has more
Former US president and Republican nominee, Donald Trump has declared victory in the presidential election and promised a new golden age for America. Addressing jubilant supporters at his campaign headquarter in Florida, Trump said America had given him an unprecedented mandate and vowed to help the country heal
The tragic incident of three children who died after consuming food that was allegedly bought from local spaza shops in Katlehong, east of Johannesburg, has led to questions being asked about the quality of food at spaza shops. Speaking outside the family home of two of the children who died last week - Gauteng acting premier Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said children should now stop buying snacks from local spaza shops because this is killing them. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report..
A twenty-four year-old-rape suspect is under police guard in Tonga hospital after being beaten by community members for allegedly raping two six year old girls. It is alleged that the two girls would be raped during the day by the suspect when there is no one at home. The rape was happening continuously with the man giving the children R5 to shut them up. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nhlanhla Jele
Police say two suspects are expected to appear in the George Magistrates court today in connection with the murder of alleged underworld kingpin, Mark Lifman. The 57 year old was gunned down at the Garden Route Mall in George on Sunday. He was scheduled to appear in the High Court in Cape Town a day later, on a number of charges including the murder of steroid smuggler, Brian Wainstein. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty.
Former Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa says he is ready to assume his duties within the ANC. Kodwa was speaking shortly after corruption charges against him were withdrawn earlier today by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Kodwa has thanked the support he received from within the ANC since he resigned as Minister back in June. Charges against his co-accused, ex EOH Executive, Jehan Mckay have also been dropped. Here is what Kodwa had to say while leaving court a free man...
Presidential nominees in the United States will continue their late blitz of key swing states a day before day Election Day when ballots start being tabulated. Nearly 75 million people have cast ballots in early voting across states around 47 percent of the number of people that voted in the 2020 election. Democratic Nominee Kamala Harris will spend the day in the key state of Pennsylvania while her Republican opponent former President Donald Trump will be in North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Michigan. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brooks Spector, Associate Editor at Daily Maverick, and a foreign policy expert
Concerned family members of the illegal mine workers in Stillfontein in the North West are awaiting any news about their well being. This as close to 600 zamazamas were forced to come to the surface after police and the SANDF stopped supply of water and food to them. An unknown number still remains underground. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zebilon Maine
The trial of alleged underworld gang bosses, Mark Lifman, Jerome “Donkie” Booysen and André Naude has been postponed to next week at the Cape Town High Court, following the murder of Lifman in George. His legal representative, Advocate Estelle Killian confirmed his death during court proceedings. Lifman, was gunned down in a hail of bullets at the Garden Route Mall in George yesterday. He had faced a number of charges, including murder and racketeering. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli
The Gauteng Health Department has confirmed that a mother and her son from Alexandra township, north of Johannesburg, are in stable condition at the Edenvale Hospital, following a suspected foodborne illness. Regrettably her 10-year old daughter died after she was taken to the nearest clinic on Saturday night. Police struggled to control the situation as furious community members wanted to destroy the spaza shop, where they bought food. Monique Lewis reports …
The trial of five men accused of involvement in the murder of soccer player, Senzo Meyiwa has resumed in the High Court, in Pretoria. Last week, lead investigating officer, Bongani Gininda testified that there was no proof that Longwe Twala was treated for an injury at a medical facility following the murder. Meyiwa was gunned down while visiting the the parental home of his then girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, in Vosloorus, in the east of Johannesburg. The defence earlier made the assertion that Twala is the one who shot the Bafana Bafana captain and accidentally shot himself in the process. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane...
The Special Investigating Unit has conducted a surprise raid in the Makana Municipality in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape. This comes shortly after President President Cyril Ramaphosa, authorised the Hawks to investigate allegations of serious maladministration involving seven tenders in the in the education-centered town where Rhodes University stands. The raid is understood to be in relation to the Bulk Water Project, the Bulk Sewer Upgrade project including and electrification project amongst others. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
Botswana Democratic Party has suffered a historical defeat after governing Botswana for close to six decades. Results indicates that the BDP has only won 1 seat losing its parliamentary majority in this week's general election. BDP President Mogkweetsi Masisi's has ultimately lost the parliamentary majority, ending a 58-year rule by the party. Voters in Botswana have rejected the country's longest ruling political party that's been in power since independence in 1966. The Umbrella for Democratic Change party looks set to form the government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Dikarabo Ramadubu and Sophie Mokoena, SABC International News Editor
Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor in the Eastern Cape, Gary Van Niekerk has resigned from the position and is expected to be replaced by his deputy and ANC councillor, Babalwa Lobishe. Van Niekerk, who hails from the National Alliance is expected to take up the position of deputy mayor. The ANC has now retained back mayoral positions in Nelson Mandela Bay, the Johannesburg Metro, Tshwane. and Ekurhuleni. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC Head of Communication in the Eastern Cape, Gift Ngqondi
The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed that seven learners from Bongucele Secondary School in Mthwalume on the South Coast of the province, have been treated at a clinic for alleged food poisoning, after consuming snacks at a nearby tuckshop. The Department says the pupils were suffering from diarrhea and vomiting and were taken to the clinic to be treated. Sakina Kamewndo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlondi Radebe
Members of various taxi organisations are today marching to the mayor of the City of Johannesburg's office in Braamfontein. They say the mayor has failed to respond to their queries about payments due to taxi owners who surrendered their minibus taxis and operating permits to make way for the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit System. They say the payments are overdue for over 8-years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Monique Lewis....
Six-year-old Amantle Samane has been described as feisty, resilient and stubborn at her funeral service which was held at the Orlando East communal Hall in Soweto. Amantle was found murdered and allegedly raped inside a shack a few metres from her home on Monday last week. A 24-year old Mozambican national, Pethe Sara Simao was arrested after an intensive search by both members of the community and the police. The suspect has already made his court appearance at the Protea Magistrate's Court on charges of murder, rape, kidnapping and being in the country legally. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Calvin Dlula...
The public sector wage bill is once again expected to come into sharp focus this week as the finance minister delivers the midterm budget policy statement under the government of national unity. Government has tabled at 4.7-percent wage offer after unions rejected its initial 3-percent offer. Public service unions - who are demanding a 12-percent wage increase for the 2025/26 financial year - have lamented government's austerity measures. They say the cost of living far outpaces the cost of labour, placing financial pressure on workers. Naledi Ngcobo reports
Citizens of Botswana are today headed to the polls to choose their next leadership.
President Mokgweetsi Masisi is said to still be confidently seeking a second term but has to contest this with other candidates. Economic issues are said to have dominated this election campaign. Some analysts suggest that the ruling Botswana Democratic Party is on the edge because of a fragmented opposition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dikarabo Ramabudu, who is a Journalist and Editor currently in Botswana monitoring this story very closely...
A 43-year-old police officer who allegedly murdered six people for insurance payouts of about ten-million-rand - is expected to apply for bail in the Polokwane Magistrate's Court in Limpopo. Sergeant Rachel Kutumela of the Senwabarwana police station - will appear alongside her 27-year- old daughter and 47-year-old sister -- on several charges. Her co-accused are said to have benefited from Kutumela's killing spree -- that started in 2019. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Rendani Raliphaswa
Unconfirmed reports are that yet another body has been found in Mqhekezweni village in the O.R Tambo district of the Eastern Cape. This follows the fata shooting of a local traditional leader and the rape of five matric learners at a nearby school. Nogcinile Mtirara was gunned down at the Mqhekezweni Great Palace over night. One villager explains what is believed to have transpired during this latest shooting incident. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi and Provincial Police Spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is leading a march to Parliament ahead of the medium-term budget policy statement (MTBPS) today. The action comes ahead of signs of further budget cuts, reduced social spending, and increased economic strain on working-class families. COSATU and civil society organisations want the minister to address the country's high unemployment rate and to implement a basic income grant, among other demands. Protesters are calling for the Minister to table a budget that speaks to the needs of poor and working-class South Africans. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli
The case against two men accused of killing five Seti family members at Bityi outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape has been postponed to the seventh of November for formal bail application. 39 year old Mphumezi Ncambe-Dodobala and 22year old Lukhanyo Gam are facing five charges of murder two charges of attempted murder amongst other charges. They are accused killing five Seti family members in NgNcenjana location, nearly two weeks ago. SABC reporter, Lwandile Mbulali....
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (NEHAWU) has approached the Labour Court in defence of Community Healthcare Workers. The union seeks to review the arbitration award that ruled against its application to compel the Department of Health to appoint community healthcare workers permanently. Nehawu president, Mike Shingage explains...
The Home Affairs Department is again on the spotlight following recommendations of the Lubisi Report. A multi disciplinary task team on the implementation of the Lubisi report is today briefing by the Counter Corruption and Security Services on its work to deal with corruption within the Department of Home Affairs. The committee has urged the department to intensify the speed of this work while adhering to due process to ensure that employees are held accountable. For more on what came out out of these discussions, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary correspondent, Zalene Merrington
The Judicial Conduct Committee has recommended a further probe on impeached Judge President, Dr John Hlophe's complaint against now retired former Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng. This stems from Hlophe's 2020 complaint against the former Chief Justice where the former alleged, among other things, that the former Chief Justice "conducted himself improperly and unlawfully in the manner in which he handled the complaint against him" by Deputy Judge President Patricia Goliath. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga.
Life Esidimeni families are staging a picket urging the the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to pursue criminal charges against the former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and the former Director of Mental Health in Gauteng, Dr. Makgabo Manamela for their roles in the Life Esidimeni tragedy. In 2016, 144 people with mental health problems died after they were moved from Life Esidimeni. In July, this year, Judge Mmonoa Teffo found that former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and mental health director Makgabo Manemela could be held criminally liable for the deaths of some of the 144 mental healthcare users. For more on this matter we're now joined on the line by the Candidate Attorney at SECTION27, Faatima Laher
Mayor of Bushbuckridge local municipality in Mpumalanga, Lydia Moroane says this weekend's storms in the province has left a significant trail of destruction, structural damage, and many families who lost everything have been displaced. Four people have died following the thunderstorm including a pupil who succumbed to fatal injuries when a roof of his home collapsed. The storm which was coupled by hail and strong winds damaged over five hundred houses and schools in the area, where walls collapsed and roofs of houses were blown. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Mpumalanga, Motsebi Wa Monareng
The trial of five men accused of involvement in the 2014 murder of soccer star, Senzo Meyiwa, has resumed in the High Court, in Pretoria. Lead investigating officer, Bongani Gininda has returned to the witness stand, where he is testifying on banking and cellphone evidence that allegedly links accused number one, Muzi Sibiya, to the crime. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
An investigation has been launched into allegations that corrupt correctional service officers, are giving unauthorised private hospital passes to wealthy prisoners in KwaZulu-Natal. It is alleged that these are prisoners serving time at the Durban Westville Prison and New Prison in Pietermaritzburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola is hosting his Ukrainian counterpart Minister Andrii Sybiha today. This forms part of political consultations between the two countries. Sybiha has been on six day tour of four countries in the Middle East and Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Khayelihle Khumalo
The trial of five men accused of involvement in the murder of soccer star, Senzo Meyiwa, has resumed in the High Court in Pretoria. Five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of the goalkeeper. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
Health minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has confirmed that the chemical found in possession of the four people who were arrested last week in Johannesburg, is not linked to the deaths of the six children in Naledi, Soweto. The Minister this morning announced that the cause of death of the six children, is a chemical called Organophosphate. Motsoaledi says Organophosphate is a group of chemicals used in agriculture and pesticides. Lets hear more from him...
KwaZulu-Natal police have launched a manhunt for group of gunmen that shot and killed four in the Nyezane area in Estcourt. It is believed that police have arrested one suspect in connection with the murders. Gunmen opened fire randomly, killing four and injuring one. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says the current food poisoning cases are deemed as a national security threat. This follows the recent reported cases of food poisoning, which led to the death of children and some hospitalized in various provinces such as Gauteng and Mpumalanga. The minister also highlighted that they have doubts that the poisonous agents are found in school feeding scheme food, but they are working around the clock to find out the root of the cause of this incidents.. Today we have our reporter Horisani Sithole out in Soweto chatting to affected residents in Soweto
The community of Bishop Lavis in the Cape Flats is still reeling in shock following the shooting and killing of seven people last night. Police say an armed suspect entered an informal dwelling in Kogelberg Street and fired several shots at the occupants. This latest shooting follows yet another shooting where five people were shot and killed on the Cape West Coast on Wednesday. A family member in the latest shooting, Selena Domingo, says she is devastated...
The Protea Magistrate's Court, in Soweto, has postponed to next Friday, the case against a man accused of raping and murdering a six year old girl, in Orlando, earlier this week. The Mozambican national was arrested on Wednesday night after a warrant was issued for his arrest, just days after he allegedly lured, raped and then murdered the child. The community of Orlando took matters into their own hands a few days ago, when they searched door-to-door for the accused, following the discovery of the child's remains. The man is facing charges including kidnapping, rape, murder and the contravention of the immigration act. Sakina Kamwendo to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
The fraud and corruption case against former Sport Minister, Zizi Kodwa and his co-accused, Jehan Mackay, has been postponed to next Friday, where the outcomes of their representations to have charges against them dropped, will be delivered. Kodwa and Mckay made a brief appearance at the Palm Ridge Magistrates, after they were charged for alleged involvement in bribes to the tune of R1.7 million, in connection a number of government contracts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha
WARNING: The following story contains graphic details that could offend sensitive listerners including children!
The brutal killing of 11 year old girl in Modutung village near Taung in the North West has left her family and the community devastated. Rethabile Jackson's charred body was found in a shallow pit, after she went missing for few days. According to police crime statistics for the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, child murders in South Africa have increased by 7.2 percent to 314, compared with the same period last year. SABC News Reporter Thabiso Moss compiled this report.
Five people have been shot and killed in Atlantis on the west coast of the Western Cape last night. Police say a further five people from the same incident were seriously injured while they were all in three vehicles on their way home from Silverstroom Beach when the shooting occurred. The province's Anti-Gant Unit is on the hunt for the gunmen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Corbin August
Three people are reported to have died as a result of the floods in the Eastern Cape. The Eastern Cape government has activated its disaster management teams to provide support to communities affected by heavy rainfalls in the Nelson Mandela bay metro. This as hundreds of families across the metro have been displaced. The government says its primary concern is the safety and well being of residents, and has also expressed its condolences to the families that lost a loved ones, and has promised that they will do everything possible to assist them, and ensure that no further lives are lost due to the floods. FSakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sinethemba Witi
Another mass shooting incident has rocked the Eastern Cape community after five men were shot and killed in New Brighton in Gqeberha. Here is the Eastern Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli
Two Stellenbosch University students, Veer Gosai together with Joel Cedras says they have found numerous suspected fraudulent applications in SASSA's social grant payment system for the Social Relief of Distress Grant. The pair have been addressing the Portfolio Committee on Social Development in parliament where they detailed alleged weaknesses in the system. The two first year students say their findings where triggered through an extensive investigation into whether or not they themselves had social grant applications made with their ID numbers. On confirming this, they then conducted a survey by asking fellow students to submit their own ID numbers for verification. Here is a snippet of their findings explained in their own words in Parliament.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa sees Russia as a valued ally who supported the country's struggle against Apartheid. Ramaphosa met with his Russian counterpart President Vladimir Putin in Kazan on the margins of the 16th BRICS Summit. Putin stressed that the two countries' trade and economic ties remain generally positive. A number of world leaders including the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres are attending the BRICS summit to tackle a pressing global issues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Khayelihle Khumalo.
Local residents in the Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape have called on local municipal officials to attend to illegal dumping of trash as it causes blockages to drains which ultimately leads to flooding during heavy downpours. Various parts of the provinces are underwater, roads have been damaged with some residents trapped inside their houses while others have been forced to evacuate. Here are two residents from Missionvale township assessing some of the damage to their area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sinethamba Witi
The city of Johannesburg's Member of the Mayoral Committee responsible for Public Safety, Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku is today inspecting a number of spaza shops and wholesalers in Soweto and surrounding areas. The city says the inspections form part of efforts to address what it calls a serious problem of unregistered spaza shops, where adherence to safety standards and tax obligations is frequently overlooked. This follows the recent deaths of 6 children who died after allegedly consuming poisoned food that was bought from a local spaza shop. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mbalenhle Mthethwa
Mozambican police have clashed with demonstrators in the capital Maputo. They fired teargas as hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets following the killing of opposition symphathisers Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe. Presidential aspirant Venancio Mondlane has rejected the provisional results of the October 9 elections. The preliminary results have shown that FRELIMO is going to win. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst and media scholar at the Centre for Media Studies, Egidio Vaz Raposo
Residents of Orlando East in Soweto are going from house to house - searching for a suspect they believe is responsible for the rape and murder - of a five year-old girl. They say the suspect - a foreign national allegedly strangled the child to death - yesterday. Police are yet to confirm the incident. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Orlando East community member Lufuno Mokotla
The sixth child in the Naledi alleged snack poisoning incident has been buried. Seven year-old, Katleho Olifant died on Sunday, last week while the mass funeral for his five friends was underway. Allegedly, the children consumed suspected contaminated snacks bought from a local spaza shop. Katlego's funeral was held at Naledi Community hall on Sunday. Puseletso Mokoena reports....
The State has withdrawn criminal charges against, Lourentia Lombaard, one of the people accused of involvement in the disappearance of six-year-old, Joslin Smith. The little girl went missing from her home in Saldanha Bay, in the Western Cape over 8 months, with four people arrested in connection with her disappearance. Lombaard made a brief appearance in the Vredenburg Magistrate's court today, where the three other accused in the matter, were remanded in police custody. They face charges of trafficking in persons with the purpose of exploitation and kidnapping. The matter has been transferred to the High Court in Cape Town, where pre-trial proceedings are expected to begin on the 31-st of January 2024. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli....
The Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube says is a bit concerned about the inclement weather. The South African Weather Service (Saws) is warning of more heavy rains over parts of the country on Monday. Saws has issued an Orange Level 6 warning of disruptive rain along the country's coastal areas between Port Alfred and Richards Bay. A Yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms has also been issued for most parts of KwaZulu-Natal, southern-western parts of Mpumalanga, Gauteng as well as the Free State, North West and the extreme north-eastern parts of the Northern Cape. Gwarube says they are keeping a close eye on the weather. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC meteorologist, Joe Guy Chabata
There are growing calls for former Johannesburg mayor Kabelo Gwamanda to be removed from all his executive roles. Gwamanda handed himself over to the Pretoria North SAPS on Friday. He subsequently appeared before a judge on a charge of fraud and has been released on bail. Tshepo Phagane reports.....
The community of Galeshewe in the Northern Cape is calling for the closure of foreign owned spaza shops across Kimberley. This following an alleged poisoning incident after a young girl and her uncle consumed bread they purchased at a spaza shop and fell ill. The girl died and her uncle is fighting for his life in hospital. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Karabo Sinyoko and Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi
The 2024 Matric students are writing their first exam paper today. According to Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube; exam papers have been through quality assurance, printed and security is in place and exam centers are ready. About 727,121 full-time and 155,215 part-time candidates will sit their matric exams — totaling to 882,336 candidates across South Africa. The Education Department wishes all the matric learners well, especially because this year's crop of matriculants began high school at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the disruptions having had a lasting impact on their learning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Elijah Mhlanga, the spokesperson of Basic Education Department
ANC NEC member David Mahlobo has described the late former Minister of Finance Tito Mboweni as selfless person who never divided the ANC. Mahlobo was speaking at the ANC's memorial service to honour the legacy of Mboweni. The memorial service was held at Nkowankowa community hall outside Tzaneen in Limpopo. Michael Makungo reports
Senators in Kenya have voted to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office. This is despite his failure to testify at his impeachment trial after his lawyer said he'd been taken to hospital. Gachagua is accused of corruption, inciting ethnic divisions and undermining the government. He has denied all the charges. He has been replaced by Professor Abraham Kithure Kindiki. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC Foreign Desk Editor, Sophie Mokoena..
Calm has returned to Vanderbijlpark in the Vaal, south of Johannesburg following protests which led to the looting of shops belonging to foreign nationals. It is believed the unrest was sparked by the murder of a South African businessman allegedly by a foreign national. For the latest, our reporter Lerato Matlala caught up with the sister of the deceased;Tebello Mokhema...
Research by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group has revealed that 6-in-10 employees wish to resign from their places of employment due to negative and toxic work environments. The mental health advocacy group sampled over 960 employees and found that 52-percent of the sample group has diagnosed with one or more mental health conditions as a result of their work environments. The group has conducive to the wholistic wellbeing of their workforce. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg and SADAG Researcher, Bronwyn Dworzanowski-Venter
Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie says he has not done anything outside the ministerial handbook following recent outcry over the more than R800 000 in taxpayer's money that was spent for his trip to France for the 2024 Olympic games. McKenzie was speaking to members of the media earlier today, where his party, the Patriotic Alliance was updating the country on the party's first 100 days in office, since the constitution of the Government of National Unity. McKenzie says he should not be compared to super fans
The street vendor which sold atchaar to learners of Marhagi Secondary School in Verena in Mpumalanga says she feels remorseful, confused and frustrated. This after 21 learners fell sick and had to be hospitalised yesterday shortly after consuming her produce. The learners have since been discharged as they had experienced headaches, stomach cramps with some vomiting. Earlier on our reporter, Nonhlanhla Ntshingila caught up with the street vendor who explained to her, what transpired...
Dozens of disgruntled residents of Coronationville in Johannesburg have embarked on a protest over water cuts in their area. They say they have been experiencing water cuts during the day for the past several weeks. The residents say that they only have water between midnight and four o'clock in the morning. Authorities have advised motorists to avoid the area, as several roads have been barricaded with rocks and rubble. Sashin Naidoo reports...
Three suspects have been arrested in Port Shepstone on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast, in connection with the killing of 18 people in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape last month. One other suspect- Siphosoxolo Myekethe abondoned his bail application in the Lusikisiki Magistrate's Court yesterday. KwaZulu-Natal police say they received a tip-off from community members in the Mkholombe informal settlement. He says they recognised the suspects from the photographs that police have been circulating. Here is the National Spokesperson; Brigadier Athlenda Mathe thanking South Africans for their team effort in apprehending the suspects....
There are seemingly different expectations about the role of the GNU technical committee by its two largest partners. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will convene the inaugural meeting of the GNU's technical committee, which will be attended by the leaders of the 11 parties in the coalition arrangement in Cape Town on Thursday. The Committee is aimed at acting as a so-called clearing house to deal with the issues facing the GNU on an ongoing basis. However, as Busi Chimombe reports, while the DA appears to view the forum primarily as a dispute resolution platform, the ANC is adamant that it will play a much broader role
The former Public Protector and now former EFF Member of Parliament, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, says she will focus on spending more time with her family, following her resignation from the party. In a resignation letter that was addressed to party leader, Julius Malema, Mkhwebane explains how she felt that her rights were violated as soon as she became Public Protector of the country. She further says her removal from office was unconstitutional, adding that her ouster followed her investigation into the so-called CR17 donations and the Phala Phala report. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC politics editor, Mzwandile Mbeje
The Bergville Magistarate's Court, in KwaZulu-Natal, has remanded in custody, a 33-year-old man who is accused of the stabbing deaths of 5 members of his family, including 2 girls, aged 2 and 6. The man made a brief appearance in court this morning, where the case against him was postponed to tomorrow. He allegedly went on the rampage with a deadly knife and attacked the occupants of his home at the weekend. The man's mother and a toddler, survived the attack and are in a critical condition in hospital. Outside court, Nomusa Sithole-Moloi from the ANC Women's League gave this latest update while making the call for no bail for the suspect..
The SACP says its criticism of the Government of National Unity is not an opposition stance against the ANC but rather an opposition to the Democratic Alliance's inclusion in the pact. This follows ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa call to South Africans not to judge the GNU on the political orientation of the parties that constitute the pact but rather on the work it has done to change their lives. SACP national spokesperson, Dr Alex Mashilo says it is worrisome for the SACP to only have one member of its party within the GNU...
The interception of food supplies headed for illegal mining activities at various shafts around Welkom in the Free State has forced some illegal miners to the surface in a bid to escape starvation underground. The Free State based Operation Vala uMgodi that forms part of the national intervention against illegal mining operations has managed to halt illegal operations in one of the shafts. The task team, which has been in operation since December has to date arrested about two-thousand-800 zama zamas. Konelo Lekhafola reports...
The 46-year-old suspect linked to the shooting and killing of 18 people at Ngobozana village in the Eastern Cape has abandoned his bail hearing and the matter has since been moved to the 26th of November. This as scores of local residents filled the local magistrate in Lusikisiki to capacity in anticipation of the suspect's appearance. Many of the locals have since taken to the streets in protests, carrying placards written, 'No Bail'. The 45 year old suspect is facing murder charges and being in possession of an illegal firearm. Our colleague Nkululeko Nyembezi caught up with victims family spokesperson David King for a reaction
The Democratic Alliance is accusing the Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi of deliberately hiding forensic reports, showing corruption and maladministration regarding projects in the Gauteng Province. The DA in the province says it has been calling for the ethics committee, to probe allegations of corruption against the Premier. They now say they will be writing to the office of the Public Protector. Here's DA Gauteng Provincial Leader- Solly Msimanga speaking at the earlier media briefing..
ActionSA has lambasted the Government of National Unity ahead of celebrations by the ANC at Luthuli House aimed at celebrating a 100 days since the formation of the GNU. The party is currently holding a media briefing in Parliament where its leader, Herman Mashaba is joined by the party's chairperson, Michael Beaumont and member of parliament, Athol Trollip, amongst the party's senior leadership. Here is Beaumont listing some of the GNU's failures...
Fifteen undocumented foreign nationals have been arrested during an inter-disciplinary operation with Metro Police, the Department of Home Affairs and other stakeholders in the Durban CBD today. Operation Clean-Up was launched by KwaZulu-Natal premier Thami Ntuli last month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Khalesakhe Mbhense.
The community of Dalibhunga informal settlement in Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, is still reeling from shock after seven people were shot dead in the early hours yesterday morning. Police say this was sparked by a fight that ensued between a tavern owner and male patron. The tavern owner allegedly followed the male patron, who was a visitor at a nearby house. And, on arrival he fired shots indiscriminately killing seven people, including a three- year old child. Calvin Dludla filed this report....
The SACP has snubbed an invitation from its alliance partner to celebrate the 100 days in the GNU with it. The Communist Party revealed this at a briefing at its headquarters in Johannesburg, following a three-day meeting of the Central Executive Committee. The meeting discussed the political, economic and social state of the country and resolved on various issues, including the basic income grant, transformation of the Reserve Bank and expanded public employment, amongst others. SACP Secretary General, Solly Mapaila, says that the celebrations are taking place on the day which the party and ANC were scheduled to hold a bi-lateral meeting on pressing issues. Busi Chimombe reports....
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is holding interviews for the position of Judge President of the Western Cape High Court. The position has been vacant since the suspension of the last Judge that held that role, Dr John Hlophe. Since then Deputy Judge President, Patricia Goliath has acted in the role. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
The Public Service Commission has expressed concern at some of the challenges to service delivery in South Africa, including the fact that some of the government departments were locked out of their offices, due to unpaid rent. The commission has been briefing members of the media on its latest Pulse of the Public Service bulletin, which focuses on the service delivery complaints it has handled for the the period ending on the 30th of June 2024. The Quarterly Bulletin also highlights the challenges in government, non-payment of suppliers and the overall number grievances handed to the PSC up to that point. Public Service Commissioner, Anele Gxoyiya had this to say.
ANC Youth League is marching to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange today. The youth league is will present a memorandum to government and private sector stakeholders with actionable demands to address their pressing concerns, about an economic freedom. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha
The Democratic Alliance (DA) Leader John Steenhuisen says the DA is determined to ensure that every choice that is made will drive growth up and unemployment down. Steenhuisen was giving its progress in national government earlier today. He says the DA will not agree to further bail-outs for state-owned enterprises, the implementation of clauses 4 and 5 of BELA and the implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme.
A total of eight people have been killed in a horror crash on the N2 highway this morning. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport says preliminary reports indicate that the crash which claimed the lives of eight young people on the N2 in Mandeni was as a result of negligent driving. It is alleged that they were travelling in a light motor vehicle when the driver lost control and crashed into an oncoming truck in another lane. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Jayed Pulse
The memorial service of the five children who died following a suspected food poisoning over the weekend in Naledi, Soweto is underway in Naledi Community Hall today. The children who are between the ages of six to ten years died within minutes of each after consuming snacks allegedly bought from a foreign owned spaza shop. One child is still in ICU in the hospital. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole
The case of a 43-year-old police officer arrested for allegedly killing six people in insurance fraud has been postponed to the 18th of this month in the Polokwane Magistrate's Court for bail application. Rachel Kutumela arrived in court looking calm. Kutumela allegedly collected more than ten-million-rand during the killing spree that started in 2019. She was arrested yesterday while on duty at the Senwabarwana police station in the Blouberg Municipality. Our reporter Michael Makunga in Limpopo has more...
A 43-year-old Limpopo police officer, accused of involvement in at least six insurance-related murders will appear before the Polokwane magistrate's court tomorrow. The officer of law has been charged with seventeen counts of fraud. The officer, stationed at the Senwabarwana police station, in Blouberg in Limpopo was arrested earlier today. She allegedly collected more than ten million rand in the killing spree that started in 2019. Our reporter Pimani Baloyi caught up with police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe who says all the deceased were known to her and her from destitute families.
Economic Freedom Fighters leader, Julius Malema has addressed members of the media from the party's headquarters, Winnie Madikizela Mandela House in Marshalltown, after the party, in coalition with the ANC and ActionSA gained control of the Tshwane metro following the ousting of DA former mayor, Cilliers Brink. Brink was ousted through a motion of no confidence and has since been replaced by ActionSA's, Dr Nasipho Moya. The EFF is also preparing for its elective leadership conference set to be held in December. Let us now take you live to the media briefing...
Limpopo Social Development Department is working to relocate mentally ill patients from Vutlari Old Age Home and Hospice in Sekgosese, outside Elim, to a safer facility. There are reports that the facility is not up to standard, not compliant nor capable to look after the patients. Some patients have reportedly died, while there are also reports of abuse and neglect of patients at the facility. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi and Social Development Department spokesperson in Limpopo, Joshua Kawapa
The Pretoria Magistrate's Court has postponed to 25 April 2025, the perjury case against former Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Mkhwebane made a brief appearance in court this morning, where she is accused of lying under oath about meetings she had with former President Jacob Zuma. This is in relation to one of her findings on the ABSA-Reserve Bank matter, which she lost with costs in the Constitutional Court. In the report, she recommended that the mandate of the reserve bank be changed. SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni has more...
The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has dismissed with costs the application by former Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane to have her former office pay her an estimated gratuity amounting to almost 10 Million rands. Mkhwebane has been battling to get the money in the courts after her successor Kholeka Gcaleka took a decision that, because she was removed from office for misconduct and incompetence by parliament, she has no right to the money. Lawyers for the office of the Public Protector have argued that the gratuity is not a salary nor a right in terms of her service contract but rather a discretionary payment for work well done. Judge Omphemetse Mooki agrees...
ActionSA leader, Herman Mashaba says all parties which have agreed to vote for Dr Nasiphi Moya as the executive mayor of Tshwane have committed to revive service delivery. Tshwane is gearing up to elect a new mayor today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Professor Theo Venter
Nearly 17 million Mozambicans are expected to cast their votes today as the country takes to the polls in what is expected to extend the rule of the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) political party. Frelimo has governed the Southern African nation since its independence in 1975, with presidential candidates such as lawyer, Daniel Chapo, who is reportedly viewed as a safe choice for business and a fresh face for the country's long-ruling party. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in Mozambique, Nixon Katembo
It still remains unclear what the outcome was of a meeting between the ANC national leadership and its Gauteng leadership. This follows the summoning of the province's Premier and chairperson of the party, Panyaza Lesufi to Luthuli House over his utterances on the formation of the Government of National Unity. The ANC's secretary general, Fikile Mbalula had written to Lesufi asking him to explain why his utterances should not be considered a violation of the party's constitution. SABC News politics reporter, Samkele Maseko
Police have launched an instigation into an incident in which five leaners died after allegedly consuming suspected poison food. Disgruntled community members in Naledi, Soweto have closed down foreign spaza shops following the shocking deaths of five children aged under ten years in the area. It is alleged that the children ate snacks bought from a local spaza shop over the weekend. Otlotleng Msimango, a parent to one of the deceased, elaborates
Workers and former workers at the Limpopo government-owned entity, Great North Transport, are expected to stage a sit-in at the company's offices over their lost pension funds. More than 300 workers say they have not received their pension payouts, after the cop0many's management allegedly used the funds for daily operations and neglected to contribute towards their pension fund scheme. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Karabo Motau.
The Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Letsike, has called on all stakeholders to work together to fight crime in the country. She was delivering a message of support at the memorial service of 18 victims who were killed in Lusikisiki, in the Eastern Cape. Fifteen of the victims are women. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with other crimes and are persons of interest in the 18 murders. The suspects are expected to appear in court today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
Today marks exactly a year after the attack on Israel by Hamas and other armed groups. The attack killed over a 1-thousand Isrealis and sparked an onslaught that has so far claimed more than 40-thousand Palestinian lives. Our reporter Khayelihle Khumalo is covered the commemoration by the Jewish community in South Africa
Trade union Cosatu, its members and some workers are today embarking on national wide march in support of the labour federation's call for more employment opportunities for citizens, decent work, action on the crippling economy in the country and a mortarium on retrenchments among other grievances. Business Unity South Africa says it's concerned about the strike and has some reservations about today's march. Here's BUSA's CEO Designate, Khulekani Mathe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporters; Nosipho Radebe, Corbin August and Itumeleng Kgajane
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party has called off a planned picket outside the venue where the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is holding a series of interviews to fill over 50 vacancies at various courts in South Africa. Today's interviews have begun as the commission seeks to fill three vacancies in the Supreme Court of Appeal, after the commission received a green light to proceed following the Gauteng High Court's dismissal of the MK party's application to have today's proceedings postponed. The party has indicated that it will explore other legal avenues after an earlier court ordered the exclusion of MK Parliamentary leader, Dr John Hlophe from participating in JSC activities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
Union federation, Cosatu is calling on workers to come out in their numbers on Monday, 7 October and join the National Day of Action against the crippling economic crisis in the country. Cosatu says the staggering unemployment rate in the country are worrying. Cosatu says about 11.3 million people need jobs in the country, and this includes people who have given up looking for work. The union is demanding a moratorium on retrenchments. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu's National spokesperson, Zanele Sabela.
The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg is today hearing the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) political party's bid to interdict the upcoming October leg of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) sitting which is expected to begin on Monday the 7th of October. This comes after the Western Cape High Court ruling which suspended MK Party JSC candidate John Hlophe from participating in the proceedings. Hlophe is barred from taking part in the interviews pending the finalisation of the review of the National Assembly's decision to designate him as a JSC member. The party contends that the absence of the MK party's representative, Dr. John Hlophe leaves it "unlawfully composed". Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe...
The Gauteng High Court sitting in Palm Ridge has sentenced Ekurhuleni serial rapist, Nkosinathi Phakathi to 42 life sentences for rape offences he committed between 2012 and 2021. Phakathi was also slapped with 791 years for rape, kidnapping, theft, assault and compelling minors to witness a sexual act. Phakathi committed his brutal acts in the Ekurhuleni area between 2012 and 2021. He preyed mostly on school-going children, with the youngest victim being a 9-years-old. Ahead of his sentencing, my colleague Chriselda Lewis, spoke to one of Phakathi's victims, who was overcome with emotions as she waited to hear Phakathi's sentence.
The South African Policing Union says public sector unions are resolute on getting what is due to them from negotiations at the Public Service Co-Ordinating Bargaining Council. The latest wage talks have resulted in the introduction of a facilitator in the form of the CCMA or the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration. Unions argue that the employer has not made an offer to employees and as such they have now gone back to their initial demand of 10% salary increase across the board. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to National Chief negotiator from the South African Policing Union Lesiba Thobakgale
The National Consumer Commission is urging all South African consumers who purchased Top Score instant porridge, to stop consuming the product and immediately return it to their retailer for a full refund. The commission has announced a recall of the product after three children, aged between one and four year, died allegedly after consuming it in Mdantsane, in the Eastern Cape province. A fourth child, was in a stable condition in hospital after consuming the porridge at the weekend. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Head of Complaints and Investigations at the National Consumer Commission, Prudence Moilwa
The Pretoria high court has declared sections of the Sexual Offences Act unconstitutional. on Monday, the court removed the ability of persons accused of sexual violence to rely on a subjective belief that consent was given by a complainant. The accused person will now have to ensure that consent was given even though the victim might not have physically or loudly expressed it. The ruling comes after the NGO The Embrace Project, a rape survivor and the Centre for Applied Law approached the court to declare sections the Sexual Offences Act invalid. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Director of The Embrace Project, Lee Anne Germanos Manuel
The South Africa Wind Energy Association says millions of South African households are already receiving wind energy via Eskom. The Association is holding the 13th annual Windaba in Cape Town looking at a holistic view of wind energy in the global renewable energy value chain. However, the industry says it has infrastructure challenges. FBongiwe Zwane spoke to Nivesh Govender, CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association.
The Israeli military say regular infantry and armoured units were joining its ground operations in Lebanon, stepping up pressure on Hezbollah, as it prepared to retaliate against Iranian missile strikes. Already battling Hamas in Gaza, Israel is beefing up its presence in south Lebanon in its conflict with Hezbollah a day after it was attacked by Iran, raising fears the oil-producing Middle East could be engulfed in a wider conflict. Bongiwe Zwane spoke Risk Analyst and Former Diplomat, Kingsley Makhubela
A Mpumalanga businesswoman is accusing the police in KaNyamazane outside the City of Mbombela of failing to arrest men who demanded a protection fee from her. The businesswoman - Sweetness Shabangu - says the men came to the site of her recycling business and demanded that she pays them to continue with her business. Shabangu says she refused to pay the fee and a few days later her business site was trashed. Motsebi Monareng reports.
The main water supply to Gauteng and Free State, is to be cut off for six months. The governments of South Africa and Lesotho have officially commenced the six-month maintenance shutdown of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel. The Lesotho Highlands Water Project is a critical infrastructure that supplies water to South Africa and generates hydropower for Lesotho. To talk more on this matter, we are joined on the line by the Water and Sanitation spokesperson Dr Mandla Mathebula
A total number of 81 foreign nationals have been arrested during the Labour Department's Blitz joint inspection and compliance raids currently taking place across the country. The sting operations, carried out together with the Department of Home Affairs, the Bargaining Councils, as well as Law Enforcement Agencies, are intended to enforce Labour Laws such as the Immigration Act, and Collective Agreements, and ensure that businesses comply as expected. Labour Minister, Nomakhosazana Methe explains
The South African Weather Service says the snowfalls currently affecting parts of KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and the Eastern Cape provinces, are not rare occurrences at this time of the year. The snowfall experienced late last month wreaked havoc in parts of the country, killing one person and causing massive traffic jams due to the closure of major highways. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole.
Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane together with Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu and MEC for Community Safety in the Eastern Cape, Xolile Nqatha are today visiting the families of eighteen people killed at Ngobozana Village, in Lusikisiki over the weekend. Among the deceased were fifteen women, while a two month old baby was among the survivors. The youngest of the deceased is a 14-year-old boy and the oldest is a 64-year-old woman. Eastern Cape Provincial Govenment say psychosocial support has been provided to the survivors. MEC for Community Safety in the Eastern Cape, Xolile Nqatha gives us an update was expected on Tuesday afternoon. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Police Spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe
The battle for the Vhavenda kingship has resumed in the Limpopo High Court, in Polokwane. Today's proceedings are focused on the role of the king in selecting candle wife, a wife married by the nation to the king to bear a successor. The throne became vacant after princess Masindi Mphephu successfully challenged her uncle Toni Mphephu-Ramabulana in the Constitutional Court. Princess Masindi Mphephu has been challenging Toni Mphephu-Ramabulana for the crown for years. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Michael Makungo.
Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has condemned in the strongest terms the gruesome killing of 18 people in two shooting incidents in Nyathi Village, Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape . The incident occured late Friday night. The victims are believed to be relatives and neighbours. He says The South African Police Service (SAPS) must mobilise all necessary resources to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous crimes are brought to book. He further says The mass killings are also worrying when a majority of those killed are women. He joins us on the line...
The process of determining whether Pietermaritzburg - the second largest city in KZN- is yet to be finalized. This is according to the Municipal Demarcation Board following an application for Pietermaritzburg - which falls under the Msunduzi Municipality and Richmond Municipality to be amalgamated. To date, the Demarcation board had received thousands of applications for the re-determination of municipal wards. Currently, 13 cases have been deferred and are subject to further research and public engagement.
Gauteng Economic Development MEC, Lebogang Maile, says the provincial government has paid three-point-eight billion rand in its first instalment to service the debt owed to roads agency, SANRAL for the construction of the now defunct, E-tolls. Speaking to members of the media in Johannesburg earlier this morning, Maile said Gauteng was is expected to fork out 30 per cent of the debt, with the remaining 70 per cent to be paid by national government. Sanral initially pumped R22. 4-billion and added a further R3.74-billion into building the e-tolls. Bongi Zwane spoke to John Sukazi, Head of Communications at Gauteng Treasury...
The Western Cape High Court has granted an urgent interdict in favour of the DA to stop the designation of MK Parliamentary leader Dr, John Hlophe to serve on the Judicial Service Commission. The High Court made the ruling today in a virtual sitting. This after the DA launched the urgent interdict application about three weeks ago. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SA reporter, Bulelani Phillip
The South African Weather Service says light snow can be expected over the Drakensberg this coming weekend. The expected snowfall will follow a similar trend, starting in the Western Cape early on Sunday morning spreading eastward towards KwaZulu-Natal by Monday morning. The snowfall is expected to clear up in the Western Cape and western parts of the Eastern Cape by Monday evening however it will persist on Tuesday over the eastern parts of Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC meteorologist, Joel Guy Chabata...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially handed over the mortal remains of some heroes and heroines to their families at a homecoming ceremony at Freedom Park, Pretoria. He says these freedom fighters fought for the liberation of this country. They include former ANC secretary general, Duma Nokwe, former PAC leader, Edwin Letsholo Makoti and others. The President has also committed that government will ensure the repatriation of other South Africans who died in exile for the closure for their families...
The leader of the Democratic Alliance in Gauteng, Solly Msimanga says relations between the party and the ANC remain cordial at national level despite the sacking of now former mayor of Tshwane, Cilliers Brink. Msimang, together with Brink and DA MMC's have been addressing the media following the successful vote of no confidence in Brink yesterday. The City now has 13 days to vote for a new mayor. Msimang together with Brink had this to say earlier. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Patricia Visagie
A 79-year-old suspect arrested in connection with the controversial Steinhoff matter is expected to appear before the Pretoria Specialised Crimes Court. According to the Hawks, the arrest emanates from an ongoing investigation into Steinhoff. His arrest follows the arrest of Stephanus Johannes Grobler who has since been released on bail and is due back in court next week Friday. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Hawks spokesperson Colonel, Katlego Mogale.
Action SA says it intends on cutting its 'umbilical cord' with the DA today during a council meeting that will see Tshwane Mayor, Cilliers Brink face an ANC sponsored motion of no confidence. Party president, Herman Mashaba accuses the DA of trying to back stab the party in the back by allegedly trying to oust ActionSA from the multiparty coalition government in Tshwane through holding side talks with the ANC. Mashaba says as such, they held their own talks with the ANC and have decided to support today's motion against Brink
The Khathorus Shop Owners Association and Gauteng Department of Economic Development intermediary, Family Tree Holdings, have released a joint statement rubbishing allegations leveled against the two entities by spaza shop owners in Kahlehong, east of Johannesburg. Earlier this week, Update@Noon spoke to Build One South Africa leader, Mmusi Maimane and Kahlehong Shop owner, Neo Motaung, who accused Family Tree Holdings of colluding with the Khathorus Shop Owners Association in order to short-chage local spaza shop owners meant to be assisted by the R100 million Kasi Mnotho Fund initiative. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Tshidiso Mosia ,also known as Mzambiya. He is the chairperson of the Kathorus Shop Owners Association...
Total employment increased by 42 000 or 0,4% quarter-on-quarter, from 10-million 674-thousand in March 2024 to 10-million 716-thousand in June 2024. According to Stats SA this is largely due to an increase in Community Services industry with 92 000 or 3,1%. However, there was a decrease in Manufacturing, Business services, Mining, Transport, Trade and Construction. Stats SA Director responsible for Quarterly Employment Statistics Matlapane Masupye elaborates and Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the Chief executive of Labour Law Management Consulting, Ivan Israelstam
The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube says she has also requested a meeting between the minister of finance and the provincial MECs for Finance, as well as the nine MECs of Education. This is an attempt to unlock additional funds to alleviate the pressures facing the education sector. Budget cuts in the educational sector could potentially leave thousands of teachers without jobs next year. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube
The deputy President of South Africa and the ANC, Paul Mashatile, says decolonizing the education system is rooted in deepening the struggle for non racialism, united and democratic South Africa. Mashatile was delivering a keynote address at the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU) 10th National Congress. About 2-thousand SADTU delegates are converging at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, for the union's 10th National Congress.
The deputy President of South Africa and the ANC, Paul Mashatile, says decolonizing the education system is rooted in deepening the struggle for non racialism, united and democratic South Africa. Mashatile was delivering a keynote address at the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU) 10th National Congress. About 2-thousand SADTU delegates are converging at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, for the union's 10th National Congress. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Sadtu Spokesperson, Nomusa Cembi
The mortal remains of 43 liberation struggle fighters will be repatriated from Zimbabwe and Zambia today. The remains are expected to arrive at the Waterkloof Airbase in Pretoria. One of the remains that is set to return is the first advocate & former Secretary-General of the ANC, Duma Nokwe. Nokwe died in Zambia in 1978. The other combatant amongst the 43 is Edwin Letsholo Makoti, former leader of the PAC who passed away in Zimbabwe in the 80's. For more on this we are now joined on the line by Thapelo Mokushane, the Deputy Director, TRC Unit within the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development
Gauteng Department of Economic Development intermediary, Family Tree Holdings, in partnership with the Kathorus Shop Owners Association are today expected to update the community of Kahlehong, east of Johannesburg, on a number of key developments with regards to the R100 million the Kasi Mnotho Fund. Family Tree Holdings recently disputed allegations levelled against it by the Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader, Mmusi Maimane, after Maimane accused the entity of unscrupulous behavior. Speaking to Update@Noon yesterday, Family Tree Holdings Chairperson, Sipho Mthembu attributed the delays in the onboarding and payouts to Kahlehong owners, to delays in the finalisation of the structure of the entity. Bongi Zwane spoke to Kahlehong shop owner, Neo Mutaung.
As South Africa celebrates its rich and diverse heritage, the first citizens of this country, the Khoi and San people, still feel neglected and not celebrated. Their history is dotted across South Africa as their ancestors picked up sticks, brushes and paint, sketching their history in caves and rock faces. The paintings also document the history of the country and the animals that roamed here thousands of years ago. They are also documented to have roamed areas, such as the Valley of Desolation, which are big tourist attractions now. Their language is also under threat. Nandipha Plaatjie reports...
Deputy President, Paul Mashile has thanked those in attendance at the Meqheleng Stadium in Fickburg for the warm he received on arrival. Mashatile, who is also acting president as President Cyril Ramaphosa is away in New York in the United States of America, is making his first public appearance following the incident where he collapsed on the podium while addressing a crowd in Limpopo. Government has chosen Fickburg in celebrating National Heritage Day. Let us now take you live to podium where Mashating is making his address
Family Tree Holdings, an intermediary of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, tasked with facilitating the R100 million "Kasi Mnotho Fund", has disputed allegations leveled against it by Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader, Mmusi Maimane. Speaking to Update@Noon yesterday, Maimane claimed that large private sector companies are allegedly abusing small businesses through unscrupulous means as Gauteng spaza shop owners continue the wait for payouts from the fund...
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube says the solution to the literacy crisis among South Africa's school children is to teach them in their mother tongue. A 2021 study by the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study found that 81% of South African Grade 4 learners struggle to read for comprehension at age 10. Gwarube says there needs to be redress in the system as the constitution guarantees the right to education in the mother tongue, yet that right has not been realised for millions of South Africans. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Gwarube, following her address at the Heritage Day commemoration in Johannesburg.
The Limpopo government says its decision to dissolve the Thabazimbi Municipal Council follows failures by the institution to carry out its executive obligations. The municipality has been dysfunctional for several years, with court battles, infighting and parallel councils between DA and ANC led coalitions. After the 2021 local government elections, no party gained clear majority to govern on its own. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to MEC for Corporative Governance and Traditional Affairs in Limpopo, Basikopo Makamu
Build One South Africa (BOSA), leader Mmusi Maimane has called for a forensic investigation into Family Tree Trust following what he calls job-killing corruption within the Gauteng Government. This follows reports of wrongdoing by large private sector companies that are allegedly abusing small businesses through unscrupulous means, particularly in the Katlehong area, in Gauteng. For more on this we are joined on the line by Build One South Africa (BOSA), Leader Mmusi Maimane
The South African Weather Service says local authorities should do more to ensure that members of the public heed its warnings to prevent loss of life. This, after heavy snowfall caused major disruptions in provinces including KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Eastern Cape at the weekend. Some motorists were forced to spend two days in their vehicles after heavy snowfall blanketed the N3 highway between Warden in the Free State province and Tugela Plaza in the KwaZulu-Natal. For more on this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to independent climate change researcher, and a member of National Advisory Council on Innovation of SA, Dr Nomhle Ngwenya and SABC's meteorologist, Joel Guy Chabata.
South Africa's new government marked its 100th day in power yesterday. There's been different opinions to how the Government of National Unity (GNU) has performed. While the coalition has been credited with lifting market sentiment, the government still faces infrastructure challenges, particularly in energy and logistics. To talk more about the impact and challenges of the GNU, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Professor of Sociology at the University of the Witwatersrand, Roger Southall
Power Utility Eskom, together with Sasol, have signed a memorandum of understanding to partner and further expand the country's energy landscape through the use of gas. The partnership and signing of the MOU was overseen by Energy and Electricity Minister, Kgoshientsho Ramakgopa a short while ago in Sunninghill, Sandton, north of Johannesburg. Minister Ramakgopa says the country intends to also partner with Mozambique in this initiative as that country already has the necessary infrastrature needed in place...
The defence has raised concerns over the solitary confinement of accused #3, Mthobisi Mncube, as the Senzo Meyiwa Trial continues in the High Court, in Pretoria. Defence counsel, Thulani Mngomezulu has also criticized ballistic analyst Malesela Ntini for not recalling some details when attending to the crime scene in Vosloorus, on Gauteng's East Rand. Ntini is on the stand at the High Court in Pretoria where five men are appearing for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana Captain. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more...
Eskom says Koeberg Nuclear Power Station's Unit One reactor is being returned to service. The unit was shut down eight days ago after it failed a routine test. This while the Southern African Faith Communities' Environment Institute cited a lack of transparency at the power station. The shut down coincided with their appeal to the National Nuclear Regulator against the granting of an extension of life for Unit One for an additional twenty years. Andile Mbanjwa reports...
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety in the City of Johannesburg, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku says a recent threat against him by the Fast Guns Gang on their Facebook page is a concerning development. This comes after JMPD and local authorities launched Operation Vaporise in Eldorado Park, targeting known drug dens where several firearms and drugs were seized. Udo Carelse spoke to Dr Tshwaku now joins us on the line City of Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says the cabinet is pleased with the economic indicators from Stats SA, and the performance of state-owned enterprises. Ntshavheni was briefing the media on outcomes of the cabinet meeting held on 18 September 2024. She says Eskom performance will contribute in the industrialization drive.
The South African Weather Service has issued a level 6 warning for the province of KwaZulu-Natal while a level 2 warning has been issued for the north-western side of the country. Disruptive snow and rain can expected in the midlands of KZN while damaging winds are forecasted for the Northern Cape, the North West and the Free State province. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC meteorologist, Joel Guy Chabata...
Police say a former Eskom contractor wanted in connection to fraud and corruption amounting to over R1.5 billion, is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court, in Johannesburg. Michael Loman, a United Kingdom national was extradited back to South Africa today and landed at the O.R Tambo International Airport a short while ago. He was arrested in London three years ago and his extradition was successfully argued in 2022. Udo Carelse spoke to police spokesperson Brigadier, Athlenda Mathe
The funeral service of the late former Minister of Public Enterprise, Pravin Gordhan is currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. Family, friends and comrades of Gordhan are expected to pay tribute to his contribution to the country's development since he first became a member of parliament back in 1994. President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the Special Official Catergory 2 funeral
The trial of five men accused of the 2014 murder of soccer player, Senzo Meyiwa has resumed in the High Court in Pretoria. Forensic analyst, Retha Grobler has resumed her testimony as one of the four analysts that have confirmed the findings of ballistic expert, Chris Mangena, linking a firearm seized from one of the accused, to the murder of the former Bafana Bafana captain. Yesterday Grobler said the testing of the alleged murder weapon happened under extraordinary circumstances. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more.
Consumers can breathe a sigh of relief as prices ease to their lowest level in three years. This as data released by Statistics South Africa shows that the consumer price inflation has cooled down further from 4,6% in July to 4,4% in August 2024. Stats SA notes the contributions to the decline came from transport, housing, restaurants and hotels. Udo spoke to Economic Advisor to the Optimum Financial Services Group, Dr Roelof Botha
Tshwane Executive Mayor Colliers Brink earlier today gave an update on service delivery progress and coalition political matters affecting the City of Tshwane. He says he has fulfilled some of his main obligations. Brink also faces a looming motion of no confidence against him, and without the support of ActionSA, If the motion passes, his mayoral committee will allegedly dissolved. Udo Carelse spoke to Tshwane Executive Mayor, Colliers Brink
ANC Treasurer-General, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa says in memory of the late minister Pravin Gordhan - government must root out corruption. ANC supporters filled the Johannesburg City Hall on Tuesday to honour the late Public Enterprises minister, following his passing last Friday. Gordhan, who was diagnosed with cancer passed away at the age of 75, surrounded by family, friends and comrades. Sibahle Motha reports
The South African Police Service (SAPS) says they have a number of plans in place to tackle extorsion related crimes. SAPS briefed parliament on its intervention plans to combat extortion earlier today. This follows increased extortion cases in various parts of the country. SAPS says they have also launched toll free lines for community members to report such crimes. Lets hear from Lieutenant General: HK Senthu-mule- SAPS Head of Detectives...
The Democratic Alliance is holding a National Day of Action today across the country to oppose Eskom's proposed electricity tariffs. This follows Eskom's request for a 36% tariff increase on top of the already approved R8 billion "make-up" tariff for next year. The political party says Eskom has increased electricity prices by 450% since 2007, placing unbearable financial strain on South African households. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Nosipho Radebe
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has told the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) about massive corruption and maladministration at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) was briefing SCOPA on investigations it conducted at PRASA. The corruption relates to PRASA's purchase of locomotives from Swifambo and the Rail Agency's deal with Siyangena to supply and maintain an integrated security access management system at various train stations across the country. Here is the Head of the SIU, Adv Andy Mothibi
Forensic analyst, Captain Reta Grobler has testified in the High Court in Pretoria, that Colonel Chris Mangena earlier gave her an exhibit bullet and test bullets to be placed in a comparison microscope. Grobler is the latest witness in the trial of five accused of the 2014 murder of the former Bafana Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa. Meyiwa was gunned down at the parental home of his then-girlfriend, singer, Kelly Khumalo. Grobler is one of two experts who confirmed the findings of the ballistic analyst, Colonel Chris Mangena, linking one of the accused Mthobisi Mncube, to Meyiwa's murder. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more....
The office of Public Protector says the members of the South African Police Service lack sufficient skills and training to adequately assist victims of Gender Based Violence at local police stations. This was revealed during a sitting of the portfolio committee on Justice and Constitutional Development currently ongoing in Parliament. The Public Protector's office has been tabling its report on systematic and administrative deficiencies relating to Gender Based Violence within the country's justice system. Executive Manager for Investigations at the Public Protector's office, Panatshego Mogaladi explains some of the findings against the SAPS...
Authorities in the Western Cape have confirmed that 25 passengers have been hospitalised following the derailment of a train last night at Paarl in the Boland. Five of the injured are reported to be in a critical condition and others with moderate injuries. No deaths have been reported. Udo Carelse spoke to Raymond Maseko, who is the Acting Regional Manager at Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa
South Africa's consumer price inflation (CPI) is anticipated to remain unchanged at 4-point-6 percent in August from July. It fell from 5-point-1 percent in June to 4-point-6 percent year-on-year in July. Independent economist, Ntombi Mbele-Thomo, says global easing with price pressure has also been reflected in South Africa. Mbele-Thomo says these changes have been positively welcomed by the economy. Nontsikelelo Mthabela reports
Convicted rapist and murderer, Thabo Bester has accused the High Court in Pretoria of bias in his application for access to a laptop and other electrics. The court has heard Bester's argument in what he believes will help him prepare for his upcoming deportation case, after he and his girlfriend, Doctor Nandipha Magudumana were arrested in Tanzania and deported back to South Africa in early 2023. Bester also told the court that his application was filed late because his attorney's laptop was stolen before they could file
The National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi has told the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development that all Truth and Reconciliation Commission-related cases are being given priority, especially those involving families who can not afford private legal representation...
The office of the Auditor-General is appearing before parliament's standing committee on public accounts to speak about the performance of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa and South African Airways SAA. The two state-owned entities continue to experience a number challenges which have forced the government to seek interventions to help find practical solutions. For the latest we're now joined on the line by our Parliament reporter Lulama Matya
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development, Mbali Shinga is expected to shares the findings of an investigation on alleged abuse of children and maladministration at the Aryan Benevolent Home in Chatsworth. ABH is fully funded by the KZN Department of Social Development and houses at least 102 children aged between 7 to 11 years, from different backgrounds. It also cares for elderly people. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development, Mbali Shinga
The Correctional Services Department has confirmed the death of Danish national, Peter Frederiksen at the Mangaung Correctional Centre in the Free State. Fredericks was serving two life terms at the facility after being found guilty of rape and conspiracy to commit murder. He was first arrested in September 2015 after 21 female genitalia were found in his home freezer. Spokesperson for the correctional services department, Singabakho Nxumalo explains. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Konelo Lekhafola.
The Vredenburg Magistrate's Court, in the Western Cape, has postponed to 21 October 2024, the case against 4 people accused of involvement in the disappearance of 6-year-old, Joslin Smith. The accused made a brief appearance in court this morning, where new evidence was heard after it came to light, resulting in the state's request for a postponement for further investigations. It has been nearly 7 months since Joslin went missing from her home in the Middelpos informal settlement, in Saldanha Bay. The four accused, including the little girl's mother, Kelly Smith, and her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, face charges of trafficking in persons with the purpose of exploitation and kidnapping. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Corbin August
The Praktiseer Magistrate's Court, outside Burgersfort, in the Limpopo province is expected to heard the case against two suspected kingpins allegedly behind illegal mining after they were arrested for allegedly being in possession of chrome valued at over 20-million rand. They are believed to be directors of an organization that deals in the illegal trade of minerals. Their case is expected to be joined with one against Geologist, Jan Aucamp, who was arrested on a similar charge in December last year. SABC reporter, Rendani Raliphaswa has more
Money, sharp objects and cellphones were some of the illegal items found and confiscated during a raid at St Albans Correctional Center in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape in the early of hours of Today. The unannounced search operation was led by Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale. SABC reporter, Lerato Fekisi spoke to Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale
Road Accident Fund CEO, Collins Letsoalo says the fund's short-term debt has been lowered to R8,2 billion from an initial R19 billion when he and his team took over. Letsoalo clarifies that short-term debt is money owed to claimants which cannot be paid by the fund. Collins has been addressing the media where he gave an overview of the fund's annual performance results. Collins also says the fund has also made significant savings by lowering legal payment costs...
The Vredenburg Magistrate's Court, in the Western Cape, has postponed until 21 October, the case against 4 people accused of involvement in the disappearance of 6-year-old, Joslin Smith. The accused made a brief appearance in court this morning, where new evidence was heard after it came to light, resulting in the state's request for a postponement for further investigations. It has been nearly 7 months since Joslin went missing from her home in the Middelpos informal settlement, in Saldanha Bay. The four accused, including the little girl's mother, Kelly Smith, and her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, face charges of trafficking in persons with the purpose of exploitation and kidnapping. Our reporter Vanessa Poonah caught up with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila,
A politician, an ANC cabinet minister, an activist, and once a pharmacist, Pravin Gordhan, will seemingly be remembered with mixed emotions. He has been hailed for bringing SARS' administration firmly into the 21st century as Commissioner of the tax collection agency. He was also well-respected by the capital markets during his tenure as Finance Minister. But at the end of his political career, the minister has come in for criticism for the slow turnaround of key state-owned enterprises and concerns around the soundness of the Takatso-SAA acquisition deal, which subsequently fell apart. The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, on behalf of Gordhan's family, hosted a press briefing following his death.
The theft case against Longwe Twala, the son of the music legend and producer, Sello Chicco Twala has been postponed to next Monday. Longwe made a brief appearance in the Randburg Magistrate's Court after, Chicco Twala opened a case against his sons, Sello and Longwe, who he claims stole sound equipment from his Johannesburg studio. Longwe's brother and co-accused, Sello, was released on bail due to insufficient evidence. Here is State Prosecutor, Esana Moshasha addressing the court earlier today...
National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has announced that 85-thousand suspects have been arrested for various crimes across the country in the last month. Masemola was speaking during a media briefing at a roadblock in Houghton, Johannesburg, on Wednesday where he provided an update on the SAPS countrywide operations. He was joined by the National Head of the HAWKS, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, who highlighted that law enforcement officers implicated in extortion and corruption will be dealt with
Chief Forensic analyst, Edward Sereo has resumed his testimony in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, currently underway in the high court in Pretoria. Yesterday, defence counsel Zandile Mshololo told the court that it took several ballistic analysts to verify Colonel Chris Mangena's findings - as the results from the bullets fired from the alleged Senzo Meyiwa murder weapon, were inconclusive. Five men are on trial for their alleged involvement in the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain in 2014. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more....
Western Cape teachers will later this afternoon be protesting against the proposed 2400 job cuts recently announced by the provincial government. The Western Cape Government has cited budget cuts from national government as a reason for the decision. The Western Cape Government has allegedly also called on teacher unions to fight alongside it, in order to protect the teachers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Secretary for South African Democratic Teachers' Union in the Western Cape, Sibongile Kwazi
The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal has attributed the party's performance in yesterday's by-elections, to what it calls trust bestowed upon it by voters. The party won five wards in that province after contesting three wards in the Ethekwini municipality, one in the Umdoni Local Municipality and another in the KwaDukuza Local Municipality. Newcomers, the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party gained a ward from the African National Congress, in the Ray Nkonyeni local municipality, while the Inkatha Freedom Party retained its ward in the Nkandla local municipality. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Elections Expert, Wayne Sussman.
Local residents together with traditional leaders have expressed shock and dismay at the brutal killing of seven members of the Khambule family in Highflats, KwaZulu-Natal. The local community in the area, together with the province's police commissioner, Lt. General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and the Premier, Thami Ntuli gathered at the family's house to pay their last respects and mourn with the family. National police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola says he has already been briefed about the incident and the necessary deployments to help with the investigation are already on the ground. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Khalesakhe Mbhense
Deputy President, Paul Mashatile says that the Government of National Unity will stand the test of time. He says that the foundation and principles of the GNU were agreed upon by all parties involved. Speaking to SABC politics editor, Mzwandile Mbeje on Tuesday, in Cape Town Mashatile said that the GNU has brought much-needed stability to the country and that the ANC and other political parties didn't just enter into the GNU, but rather were forced into it by the voters. Sibahle Motha reports.
Judge Nkosinathi Chili has dismissed former president Jacob Zuma's argument that he cannot be tried by prosecutor Adv. Billy Downer. Former President Jacob Zuma was back in court this morning to hear Judge Nkosinathi Chili's reasons why he refused to approve the removal of lead prosecutor, Billy Downer. Zuma's defense lawyers have indicated that they would file an appeal. However the court has argued that the appeal will automatically bring pre-trial proceedings to a halt making this case drag on for many months to come. Here is what came out of court earlier
Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu is expected to meet with all municipalities from the Gert Sibande District. All municipalities under the Gert Sibande municipality have been receiving negative audit outcomes. They are dysfunctional and lack basic services such as water and eletricity. For more on this we are now joined on the line by our reporter on this story, Motsebi Monareng...
The Deputy Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Aubrey Ledwaba has pointed to concerning delays in the flow of court cases in the city of Johannesburg, with the earliest available trial dates in the Johannesburg High Court being as far away as October 2029. Ledwaba was speaking on the case flow turnaround times for matters in Johannesburg as at the 31st of August 2024, which indicates that those seeking to access justice are often forced to wait almost 5 years in order for their cases to get to trial. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Researcher and Advocacy Officer at Judges Matter, Mbekezeli Benjamin...
Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane has joined the province's Safety and Security MEC, Xolile Nqatha in pressing charges against Abathembu King, Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo following allegations of their involvement in extortion activities in the Eastern Cape.
Justice Minister Thembi Simelane and National Directorate of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi are appearing before the Justice and Constitutional Development Portfolio today. MPs are concerned about communication between the Justice ministry and the NPA, following recent reports that the Department has not been forthcoming with documents and information relating to the Zondo Commission report. The NPA needs access to this database, in order to prosecute matters relating to the Zondo report. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary journalist, Abra Barbier.
Ballistics expert, Edward Sereo has returned to the witness stand in the Senzo Meyiwa Trial, which is currently underway in the High Court in Pretoria. Sereo performed a microscopic verification of the work done by his colleague, Chris Mangena, which linked the gun allegedly found in possession of accused number 3 and the bullet found at the scene. The defence earlier questioned the results of the analysis of the marks on the tests bullets. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
The state in the case against of three men accused of the gruesome murder of two women at a pig farm, outside Polokwane in Limpopo, has announced that the bail application of the accused will be referred to the Polokwane Regional Court in October. The accused, Zacharia Olivier, Rudolf de Wet and William Musora made a short appearance in the Mankweng Magistrate's Court this morning, on charges including premeditated murder and attempted murder, following the discovery of the decomposed remains of Maria Makgato and Kudzai Ndlovu. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi, who was in court for us this morning....
Counsel for Former Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zola Majavu says his client has suffered irreparable harm with each day his corruption case is delayed. This follows yet another delay in the trial to the 3rd of October by the Palm Ridge Specialized Commercial Crimes Court. Kodwa, together with his co-accused and former Enterprise Outsourcing Holdings executive, Jehan Mackay stand accused of corruption charges totalling to 1.7 Million rands. Here is Majavu explaining earlier in court that his client, stands ready for trial and any further delays may lead to an application for a separation of trail between the two accused...
Seven police officers and one civilian have appeared before the Durban Magistrate's Court in KwaZulu-Natal for extortion-related crimes. The Hawks confirmed that three of the officers and a civilian were arrested on Sunday, for allegedly extorting money from a shop owner in Phoenix in Durban. Four other officers who were accomplices in the alleged extortion handed themselves over to police this morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KwaZulu-Natal Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo
The Groblersdal Magistrate's Court, in Limpopo, will this afternoon make a decision on the bail application of the accused drug lords. The accused, Frederick Botha, Simphiwe Khumalo and three Mexican nationals were arrested in July for allegedly running what has been described as Africa's largest drug manufacturing laboratory. The Mexicans, Ruban Vidan, Gonzalez Jorge Partida and Gutierrez Lopez Alejandro abandoned bail. The court sitting is underway. Rendani Raliphaswa has more.
The South African Human Rights Commission has turned to the Constitutional Court to appeal a Supreme Court of Appeal judgment. The contested ruling states that SAHRC recommendations are not binding, and can only be enforced by a court of law. The SAHRC argues that if not challenged, the ruling will render the Chapter 9 body useless. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAHRC Commissioner, Advocate Sandra Makoasha
Six years have since passed since the deadly outbreak of Listeriosis in the country back between the months of January 2017 and July 2018. Over a thousand families were affected and are still trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives as over 200 people were killed. The Richard Spoor Attorneys Incorporated together with the LHI Attorneys are expected to brief the media today over a class action lawsuit against Tiger Brands. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Associate Attorney at Richard Spoor Attorneys, Zanele Malindi...
A mass protest is currently underway in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape today against the high level or crime in various communities. Community members of Mthatha say they are struggling with femicide, extortion, murder and stock theft. The protest march is taking place a day after the national police commissioner, Gen Fannie Masemola, was in Mthatha to update on the police intervention which is focusing on extortion. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nomzwanele Bacela, in Mthatha.
Parents are urged to ensure their children are up to date with their vaccination schedules amid increasing cases of rubella or German measles in some provinces. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has alerted the health department of a notable rise in rubella cases in various parts of Gauteng, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Manager for Expanded Program of Immunization at the National Health Department, Elizabeth Maseti...
The Gauteng Department of Health says they are aware of a video posted on social media by a patient who made several allegations against Helen Joseph Hospital. The health department says matter is being investigated to establish facts and attend to the issues raised by the complainant. Lets first hear from the complainant, Tom London
The State has called chief forensic analyst at the South African Police Service, Lieutenant Colonel, Edward Sereo to the witness stand at the Senzo Meyiwa trial underway at the High Court in Pretoria. Sereo verified findings by ballistic expert Chris Mangena - who linked a firearm seized from accused number 3, Mthobisi Mncube in 2015 to the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Mncube and four others are on trial for the 2014 murder of Meyiwa who was shot and killed while at Kelly Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus on Gauteng's East Rand. Pearl Magubane has more
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane has denied having an improper relationship with the contractor hired by the Polokwane municipality. Simelane says Gundo Wealth was not a paid service provider of the Municipality, only a financial advisor. The minister was briefing the Portfolio Committee in Parliament about allegations of her having 'benefited' from VBS during her tenure when she was Mayor of Polokwane.
The Mayor of Nketoana Local Municipality in the Free State, Mamiki Mkoena is reported to have spent about R100-thousand on a rented car in 1 month. According to an invoice seen by GroundUp, the mayor, Mamiki Mokoena, travelled about 7 000 kilometres between 18 May and 18 June this year, in a rented car. The invoice suggests that she was billed R64,893 for rent on the car for the month. Records suggest that about R34,000 was spent on the mayor's fuel card over the period. This follows two accidents in which the mayor's cars, owned by the municipality, were written off. The Auditor-General recent report on Nketoana Local Municipality for the 2022/23 financial year records the municipality stated irregular expenditure was R480-million. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tladi Moloi, the GroundUp Journalist who made this discovery.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane has denied having an improper relationship with the contractor hired by the Polokwane municipality. Simelane says Gundo Wealth was not a paid service provider of the Municipality, only a financial advisor. The minister was briefing the Portfolio Committee in Parliament about allegations of her having 'benefited' from VBS during her tenure when she was Mayor of Polokwane
The community of Danville, in the North West's Mahikeng Municipality, is appealing to police for assistance in the wake of growing drug-related crimes in the area. Drug users, addicts and dealers are reportedly wreaking havoc as locals say they live in fear of falling victim brazen robbers and rapists in the area, following the discoveries of a number of human remains bodies in a nearby bush. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Danville Councilor, Stephen Van Rooyen
The Special Investigating Unit has given a damning report about the scale of fraud by lawyers when instituting medico-legal claims against government. This practice cuts across the private and public health sectors. The SIU was briefing Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) on the latest development in its investigations into allegations of fraud in medical legal claims. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Special Investigating Unit (SIU) spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago
The trial of five men accused of the 2014 murder of soccer player, Senzo Meyiwa, was delayed this morning as the defence sought clarity from the Legal Aid Board, on costs for services provided by independent ballistics expert, Dave Pieterse. Ballistic expert, Colonel Chris Mangena was initially expected to return to the witness stand today, following cross examination by the defence, where he was accused of having removed evidence from the crime scene on the night of the murder. SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
Gauteng Finance MEC Lebogang Maile has welcome the audit outcomes of the 2022/23 financial year recently tabled by the Auditor General of South Africa (AGSA), Tsakani Maluleke. MEC Maile says he acknowledges that most municipalities did not comply with procurement legislation and that many targets which were not achieved affected basic service delivery. Maile says greater urgency is required to address service delivery in Gauteng. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Owen Witbooi ,who is the Deputy Director for Municipal Financial Management at Gauteng Treasury.
Legal counsel for Freedom Under Law, Advocate Wim Trengove, has argued that the proper priority of the Western Cape High Court is to establish how best it can address the issue of illegal designation. Trengove made the argument earlier today, as the court hears a legal challenge by the civil society organisation, in partnership with the Democratic Alliance and the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, against the designation of Dr John Hlophe to the Judicial Service Commission. The applicants say the National Assembly's decision to vote for Hlophe's inclusion on the JSC was unreasonable and irrational. The House voted during a plenary sitting two months ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Abongwe Kobokwana
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape are yet to identify the two people killed alongside the suspected Mthatha extortionist Dalinzolo Mareke. The Eastern Cape MEC for Community Safety, Xolile Nqatha, has commended the actions of the police in Mthatha yesterday. Mareke and the two men were shot dead after they allegedly started shooting at the members of the National Intervention unit who returned from an operation in Mthatha west. O.R. Tambo District Police Commissioner, Major-General Phumzile Cetyana says he shooting incident happened after the suspects confronted officers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi.
The Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) is calling on the new Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya, to play an active role in reforming the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) so that the country's best legal talent can be selected as judges. CDE says the quality of judges is declining, and more acting judges are being employed to clear case backlogs. The Centre for Development and Enterprise has released a report titled " How to appoint a strong judiciary". Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ann Bernstein, who is the Executive Director for the Centre for Development and Enterprise
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu told the National Assembly how acts of extortion around the country has angered communities. Mchunu was delivering his statement outlining the actions taken by the police to deal with the threat posed by those committing acts of extortion in South Africa. Mchunu's statement generated intense debate from opposition parties as Mercedes Besent reports
The Horizon Chrome Mine in Rustenburg has dismissed over 140 of their employees who staged the underground sit-in last week in Tlhatlhaganyane near Rustenburg. The workers were demanding salary increases and better working conditions. They say an entry level underground employee earns about R6 500.00 a month, which they say does not match the work done and dangers faced underground. Employees say the mining company's action, depicts its utter disregard for the interests of their workforce. Sentleeng Lehihi compiled this report.....
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the integration of African economies is critical to the growth of the continent. Ramaphosa was speaking at the first day of the Forum for China-Africa Co-operation summit currently ongoing in Beijing. Ramaphosa adds that South African and China and tied and the hip and re-affirmed the country's commitment to the BRICS forum. Ramaphosa elaborates...
Music legend, Sello "Chicco" Twala has vowed that his son, Longwe will never be found guilty in the Senzo Meyiwa Trial. Speaking to SABC News at the sons are expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrate's court, north of Johannesburg, earlier today, Twala said he had opened a seperate case of theft against Longwe and his brother, Sello after the pair allegedly stole equipment worth thousands of rands from the legend's studio. He says the decision to press charges was best
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) was scheduled to be briefed by the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) on developments emanating from the 2022/23 annual reports of the entities and on the investigations currently being conducted by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) on the entities. In February, the SIU said it has recovered more than R688 million from institutions of higher learning belonging to the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Sakina Kamwendo spoke to chairperson of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa), Songezo Zibi
Ballistics expert, Colonel Chris Mangena has reiterated that the markings on the test bullets he fired align with those found from the bullet at the Senzo Meyiwa crime scene. Mangena is back on the witness stand as his cross examination continues at the Pretoria High Court, where five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Mangena has also testified that the crime scene bullet was fired from a firearm seized from accused number 3, Mthobisi Mncube. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane...
With a high level of unemployment and saturated job markets, more women in South Africa are tapping into traditionally male-dominated industries. Over the last years, Limpopo has seen a high number of women participating in sectors such as operation of heavy vehicles and machineries as well as construction. As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, we look at some of the women treading unfamiliar territories. SABC News reporter Vutivi Maluleke has more....
Only twenty-five percent of South Africa's young people are hopeful about the future being better, that's according to a survey Johannesburg-based Ichikowitz Family Foundation. The survey also reveals that the country's youth are much less trustful of all leaders than the rest of the continent's youth, with only religious leaders trusted by a majority – Local community leaders and organisations are seen as the biggest drivers of positive change, while national leaders are seen less positively. For more on some of the other key findings of the survey, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Reuben Ichikowitz, a Trustee of the Ichikowitz Foundation
South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0,4% in the second quarter of 2024. This follows a 0,0% growth in the first quarter of 2024. The finance, real estate and business services industry increased by 1,3%, contributing 0,3 of a percentage point to the GDP growth. Increased economic activities were reported for financial intermediation, auxiliary activities, real estate activities and other business services. Here is the Chief Director for National Accounts at Stats SA, Bokang Vumbukani-Lepolesa
The brazen shooting of a school principal in front of teachers and pupils in the Eastern Cape has been condemned extensively. Eastern Cape police have been urged to work with speed in apprehending the suspects. The killing is allegedly linked to extortion points to a failure of the security system. Zakhele primary's school governing body (SGB) will meet social workers, counsellor teachers, pupils and the principal's family. For an update we are joined on the line by Vuyiseka Mboxela, Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Education Department...
The furore between a Pretoria father and the Gauteng Basic Education Department is back in the spotlight. The father of a 14-year old black girl, who was called the K-word by two white boys at a Pretoria High School, a few months ago, is accusing the Gauteng Basic Education Department of re-victimising his child. He now demands accountability. Monique Lewis has more ..
Acting President, Paul Mashatile has likened the killings of police officers as an attack on the state and equal to treason. Mashatile made these remarks at the annual South African Police Services Commemoration Day. The SAPD honoured 39 women and men, who died in the line of duty between April 2023 to March 2024. Mashatile says police officers must take decisive action against criminals according to the legal provisions provided for in the constitution. Sibahle Motha reports
The Coligny Magistrates court in the North West has postponed a case against more than 40 suspected illegal immigrants to Monday and Wednesday next week. The suspects, from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique have been remanded in custody until Monday to grant the court time to find interpreters. Those from Lesotho will re-appear in court on Wednesday. They were arrested last Thursday at a construction site in Coligny. Their employer Sympton Manyena, was arrested on Friday and paid an admission of guilt fine of 63 thousand rand. SABC News reporter, Thabang Morutloa has more
The Gqeberha High Court, in the Eastern Cape, has postponed to June 2025, an application by two parties in the judicial Inquest into the murder of the Cradock Four. The families of anti-apartheid activists, Mathew Goniwe, Fort Calata, Sparrow Mkonto, and Sicelo Mhlauli, all from Cradock, have turned to the courts after their loved ones were abducted and murdered by the South African Security Police in Gqeberha in 1985. SABC News reporter, Ntombozuko Balintulo has more.
The Senzo Meyiwa trial has adjourned till tomorrow morning to allow the defence to go through additional ballistic evidence they received this morning. The additional documents have been supplied by ballistic expert Colonel Chris Mangena at the High Court in Pretoria following a request by defence counsel Charles Mnisi during cross examination on Friday. Five men are on trial for the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Meyiwa was at Kelly Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus on Gauteng's East Rand in 2014. Advocate Mnisi says he was not ready to proceed this morning and has requested time to go through the documents. SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane has more...
The Gauteng Health Department has expressed concern over the significant increase in food poisoning cases among children, particularly in townships, informal settlements and hostels. This comes after an incident in which seven children were admitted to the Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital last Thursday for suspected food poisoning. Six of the children have since died, while one remains in a critical condition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Acting Director: Public Health and Food Safety Gauteng Department of Health, Christina Mnisi
Rhodes University in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape, says the dignity of the City's citizens is taken for granted by the ongoing water challenges. Academic activities have since been suspended as students and staff march in protest to the municipal offices to demand water. The supply of water to the institution and many parts of the City has been disrupted since last week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter in Makhanda, Kim Daniels...
Lawyers' organisation, Black Forum South Africa, says it is investigating several suspected racially-motivated murders of farmworkers across the country. This follows the recent arrest of a Limpopo farmer, Zacharia Oliver, and his two employees after they allegedly shot and killing Kudzai Ndlovu and Maria Makgato, and then threw their disposed their bodies into a pigsty, in a farm outside Polokwane, in Limpopo. The accused are applying for bail in the Mankweng Magistrate's Court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Katlego Nyoni.
More than six-thousand people have been murdered in South Africa in the quarter covering April to June of this year. Four of the nine provinces recorded increases in murder cases, with the highest increase recorded in the Western Cape, followed by North West, then the Eastern Cape and Limpopo. Here is a snippet of what the Head of Police Crime Research and Statistics. Major General -Norman Sekhukhune had to say while delivering the latest crime stats a short while ago...
The pension funds industry is warning that the proposed new two-pot pension system could impact divorce orders in future. The much talked about two-spot retirement system will kick in on the 1st of September ( a few hours and counting). In our special focus on two-pot retirement system in partnership with Sanlam, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lize de la Harpe- Senior Legal Advisor Corporate at Sanlam...
Defence counsel Charles Mnisi says their independent ballistic expert found inconclusive results on the firearm said to be the Senzo Meyiwa murder weapon. Advocate Mnisi is currently cross examining the states ballistic expert Chris Mangena at the High Court in Pretoria where five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Colonel Mangena says despite the barrel of the firearm confiscated from Mthobisi Mncube being old - it treated positive as the murder weapon. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more...
The South African Broadcasting Corporation has partnered with Sanlam in an initiative to bring you everything you need to know about the two-pot retirement fund system, and how it is intended to work. Today's big question is: What happens when you leave your employer OR if an employee is retrenched? Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Head of Member- Led Outcomes at Sanlam, Koketso Mahlalela about the much-talked about two-spot retirement system, which into effect on the 1st of September 2024.
The Black Business Federation (BBF) has distance itself from construction mafias. Construction mafia are notorious for storming and disrupting construction projects. Five suspects were arrested for construction mafia related activities at uMsunduzi in KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday. They stand accused of disrupting a project outside Pietermaritzburg. The federation says it know the people behind the so-called construction mafia. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Black Business Federation (BBF) Secretary General, Wonder Jaca
The Gauteng High Court Division in Pretoria, has granted the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) a preservation order to seize high value properties relating to the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) scandal. The order states that various assets acquired through the misappropriation of funds from the NLC should be kept in reasonable condition until a forfeiture order is granted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago,
Civil society organisations under the banner of Defend Our Democracy, have called on South Africans to not remain silent in the fight against corruption and the targeting of whistle-blowers. Various organisation have gathered outside the SARS offices in Pretoria in order to make their voices heard. This follows an assassinations attempt on the life of Advocate Coreth Naude from KwaZulu-Natal. Naude was investigating a R37 million tax case involving businesswoman, Shauwn Mkhize at the time of the attack. The incident also comes after the murders of curator Cloete Murray and his son, who were working with Naude. Here is Pumla Williams, speaking on behalf of the Kathrada Foundation...
The pre-trial hearing of former president and MK leader, Jacob Zuma in the arms deal matter has been delayed once more at the Pietermaritzburg High Court. Zuma's legal representative Advocate Dali Mpofu says his client has the right to approach a higher court over the removal from the case of the lead prosecutor, Advocate Billy Downer.
Gauteng Human Settlements MEC, Tasneem Motara has assured residents of Bekkersdal that her department's Urban Renewal Project will be completed by July next year. Motara has been engaging the community after a number of multi-million rand infrastructure projects were left to decay. This, after the provincial government awarded a R220 000 000 tender to engineering company, TCT Civil and Construction, to upgrade and develop existing sewer network in the area. Community members have complained that they continue to live in squalor, despite government having invested heavily in delayed, incomplete, or abandoned projects. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MEC for Human Settlements in Gauteng, Tasneem Motara
President Cyril Ramphosa has requested a report from Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane following allegations of corruption levelled against her. Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya says the president has noted the reports with concern.
Ballistic expert, Col Chris Mangena says a firearm belonging to musician, Chicco Twala was taken in for testing, as there were initially allegations that his son, Longwe, had killed Senzo Meyiwa. Colonel Mangena is under cross examination at the High Court in Pretoria where five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Longwe was one of the occupants inside Kelly Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus, on Gauteng's East Rand, when Meyiwa was shot. SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane has more....
While Gauteng Law Enforcement believes they have thwarted an ATM bombing syndicate by arresting the masterminds, crime researchers believe such acts are now being committed from behind bars. This after a number of suspects most of whom are foreign nationals, were arrested and some convicted for possession of large sums of stained cash and detonators. Puseletso Mokoena and Ofentse Setimo filed this report...
Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane's status in proceedings before the Supreme Court of Appeal is been debated before the appellate court in Bloemfontein, Free State. Mkhwebane is before the superior court appealing the judgment dismissing the Chairperson of the Section 194 inquiry, Qubudile Dyantyi's refusal to recuse himself from the inquiry that impeached her. However, the former Public Protector no longer occupies the position. Her legal counsel, Advocate Dali Mpofu (SC) has argued that she has brought the appeal in her personal capacity and has invoked Rule 15 of the Uniform Rules of Court. Zoleka Qodashe sent us this report..
Workers wishing to have access to withdrawing a portion of their two-pot retirement fund system have been advised to ensure that they understand the long-term implications involved. This is according to financial experts who have dedicated their time to explain every part of the the much talked about two-spot retirement system which will kick in on the 1st of September. In our special focus on two-pot retirement system in partnership with Sanlam, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Head of Product Development at Sanlam Corporate, Anna Siwiak.
Democratic Alliance Johannesburg Caucus Leader, Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku has called on the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to look into the Lilian Ngoyi Street (formerly Bree) Rehabilitation Project. This comes as the Johannesburg Roads Agency has terminated the contract of the company which has been working to fix the 1.8km stretch of road previously known as Bree Street. The road, which encompasses various businesses, residential properties and commonly used by the taxi industry and commuters was damaged during an underground gas explosion last year in July. Completion of fixing the road has since been extended from this coming December to next year June. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to councilor Kayser-Echeozonjoku...
Farmers association, Potatoes South Africa has warned that the price of potatoes may be impacted as farmers face increasing challenges, including a recent five-day black frost experienced in the Limpopo province and proposed water usage restrictions expected to be imposed on farmers in the Western Cape's Sandveld region. This follows a recent government gazette by the Department of Water and Sanitation, suggesting that water extraction by farmers in the Sandveld region be reduced by 30%, in order to ensure that the area has sufficient water to sustain its population and environment. The association says the restrictions would result in 30% of the hectares of potato farming land in the Sandveld taken out of production, resulting in the quadrupling of potato prices. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of Potatoes SA, Willie Jacobs
Paris has promised a Games to remember, as the city prepares to host the 2024 Paralympics. Tonight's opening ceremony at 20:00 will be focused on the Place de la Concorde. Nearly two million tickets have been sold, with about 500,000 still available.
The Paris Games will feature a record number of delegations and female athletes.
There will also be television coverage in more territories than ever before. Today's story comes from Tracy Otto who is on the verge of representing Team USA at the Paralympics in Archery for the first time. She was involved in a horrific attack which I just can't tell you about on radio. But she explains how the challenges she faces is more than just what you see on the range.
Any worker wishing to have access to a withdrawal benefit of 30-thousand rands should have a total value of at least R300 000 in value in their retirement fund account by the by August the 31st. This is according to financial experts who have been on a path of explaining the much talked about two-spot retirement system which will kick in on the 1st of September. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Business Development Support Specialist from Glacier by Sanlam, Palesa Mokoena
Over a hundred undocumented foreign nationals have been arrested during a special operation conducted by police in the Durban CBD today. The raid which is led by KwaZulu-Natal's Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is aimed at addressing issues related to illegal firearms, hijacked buildings and illegal immigrants. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Jayed Pulse
As South Africa wraps up women's month, some female traditional leaders in the Vhembe district, in Limpopo, have expressed confidence that positive strides have been made in recognizing the role of women in customary structures, thirty years into democracy. Vha-Musanda vho-Bohwana of Tshaulu village and vha-Musanda vho-Ligege of Duthuni village have been on their respective thrones for several decades. The pair has hailed advancements by some customary institutions that have seen women take on leadership positions. SABC News reporter, Michael Makungo reports...
Only 34 out of the 257 municipalities in the country have received clean audits. 30 of those have had repeat clean audits, which means that they are repeatedly consistent and compliant in establishing key disciplines to deliver on their mandates. This is according to the Auditor General's office which briefed the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs on the 2022-23 local government audit outcomes earlier. Auditor-General, Tsakani Maluleke says this dysfunction in municipalities leads to poor service delivery. Here is Auditor General Tsakani Maluleke speaking earlier.
South Africans are not safe in their homes. That's according to a new data released by Statistics South Africa. Around 2,6 minion households experienced housebreakings or burglaries in the past 5 years. The experience of housebreaking has increased by 12% from the previous year. There is a decline in the sense of safety among individuals walking in their neighborhoods during the day and at night since 2019/20. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Stats SA's acting deputy-director general responsible for population and social statistics, Solly Molayi.
Lauded by some as a system that's going to benefit workers in the long term, while others warned about far-reaching implications. But with President Cyril Ramaphosa having signed the two-pot bill into law, It's all systems going come the first of September. We focus on how the two pot system will impact government workers, many of whom earn meagre salaries such as teachers, nurses and police officers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Product Development at Sanlam Corporate, Anna Siwiak
The MEC for community safety in Mpumalanga Jackie Macie has described the historic tourism town, Pilgrim's Rest as a war zone. This comes as local authorities were forced to retreat last week during a raid against illegal miners in the area. Illegal miners who are also believed to be undocumented foreigners have turned the town into their territory. MEC Jackie Macie spoke to Sakina Kamwendo about the raid
President Cyril Ramaphosa says reliance on fossil fuels poses threats to South Africa's economy, society and environment. He was addressing the Inaugural Just Energy Transition (JET) Municipal Conference at Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg. Ramaphosa says the country's main trading partners are taking measures to achieve net zero within certain timeframes. He says this has implications for South African goods and products entering these markets.
Residents of Ga-Riba, in the Limpopo province, are picketing outside the Praktiseer Magistrate's Court where an alleged serial killer is expected to make his first appearance in the murder of 10-year-old Khomotso Matenche. The man is accused of killing Matenche after she was reported missing in 2019, and then disposing for her body in a pit toilet at the Nthame Primary School in Riba Cross, Burgersfort. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Koketso Motau
Three people are appearing at the Mankweng Magistrate's Court after the decomposed bodies of two women, and an injured man were discovered at a farm in Sebayeng, outside Polokwane on Tuesday. One of the deceased women was a 45-year-old woman who was reported missing after visiting the farm over the past weekend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi
The community of Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg, has expressed concern over persistant gang-related violence, which they believe was behind the recent stabbing of a school learner by his schoolmate last week. The incident took place at the Lancea Vale Secondary School, where a fire later broke out, resulting in significant damage to three of the school's classrooms in the Grade 8 and Grade 9 block. Two learners were subsequently arrested for allegedly starting the fire. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eldorado Park Community Leader, Dereleen James...
The family of deceased whistle-blower, Babita Deokaran feels aggrieved that the masterminds behind her assassinations back in 2021, are still out on the lose. This comes as TODAY marks exactly three years since she was gunned down outside her housing complex in the South of Johannesburg in August. Before her senseless killing, Deokaran had exposed fraud and corruption with the Gauteng Health Department. Six men involved in her murder were found guilty and were sentenced to between six and 22 years. The family's spokesperson and Deokaran's brother-in-law ,Tony Haripersad says the case has yet to be fully resolved. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Investigative Journalist at News24 and Co-author of Eight Days in July, Jeff Wicks. He has written a comphrensive report of the finer details in this case...
Mpumalanga authorities together with the South African Police in the province were this morning set to conduct raids in Pilgrim's Rest, a historic small town allegedly affected by illegal mining. However, this raid has since been put on hold because authorities feel that they are not yet ready to face the illegal miners. Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Jackie Macie explains the reasons for today's cease fire…
Floyd Shivambu says he did not betray anyone but chose to defend the revolution. This after he resigned as EFF deputy president last week to join the Umkhonto WeSizwe (MK) party. EFF President Julius Malema came out guns blazing at EFF members who, in his view, silently betrayed the party for what he described as greener pastures. Shivambu is now the National Organiser of MK party. He says he voluntarily joined MKP for the right reasons and made a plea during his resignation as an EFF member to avoid mischaracterization of a revolutionary decision and act....
Former United States president, Back Obama together with former First Lady, Michelle Obama have hit back at Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, criticizing his character and racist attacks that have targeted her and her husband Barack in the past. The pair were speaking at the Democratic National Convention currently ongoing in Chicago where they placed their weight behind Kamala Harris in her 11th-hour presidential bid against Trump. Harris seeks to make history November the 5th as the first woman and first Black and South Asian person to be elected U.S. president. Michelle Obama says Trump has a limited narrow view of the world...
Abathembu King, Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo has ordered schools that were forced to close down due to incidents of extortions in Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape and surroundings to be re-opened. This follows various reports of businesses resorting to closing shop in order to avoid a monthly protection fee that is demanded by local gang rings. In addition, four schools from Mthatha have also become the latest victims of intimidation in this manner. Kind Dalindyebo has since strongly condemned these incidents and called on law enforcement agencies to tigthen the grip on criminals. Spokesperson for King Dalindyebo, Princess Ntando Dalindyebo now joins us on the line for further details...
Humility, Integrity, Intelligence, empathy and impartiality are but some of the words used to describe the outgoing Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo. This as members of the judiciary have gathered at the Constitutional Court in honour of Chief Justice Zondo who is being showered with well wishes as he prepares to retire at the end of this month. Chief Justice designate Mandisa Maya says Zondo has served the country and the judiciary exceptionally well during his tenure...
The High Court in Pretoria has denied electricity regulator, National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) and the municipal association, the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) leave to appeal against its earlier judgment precluding Nersa from approving tariff increases in more than 100 municipalities. The court agreed with AfriForum and ordered that Nersa was not authorised to approve any tariff increase unless they were based on a cost-of-supply (CoS) studies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Morne Moster, Manager of local government affairs at AfriForum
President Cyril Ramaphosa's face-to-face interview with the SABC has been cancelled due to him suffering from an eye infection. The president was expected to reflect on the formations of the Government of National Unity post the recent national and provincial elections. Ramaphosa was also expected to reflect on a range of issues, including the sharing of cabinet positions within government with opposing political parties. One of the key critical bones of contention within the GNU is the synergy is policy formulation on matters such as affirmative action, the National Health Insurance Fund and the contagious Bella Bill, amongst many other issues. Here is the latest from the president's residency in Pretoria from the SABC's politics editor, Mzwandile Mbeje, together with anchor, Bongiwe Zwane.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber and his departmental officials updated Parliament on a range of issues this morning. It was revealed that the visa applications of the 95 Libyan nationals arrested at an alleged military training camp in Mpumalanga recently, were fraught with irregularities Schreiber initially addressed the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on the lack of proper records management in the country, and how this opens SA up to criminality. It was then revealed how this lack of digital transformation and proper record keeping is at the core of the department's problems. This became clear as the department unpacked how the issue around these Libyan nationals and the Miss SA saga unfolded. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Abra Barbier.
AbaThembu king Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo is holding an urgent meeting to discuss a spate of extortions at the Mthatha West area, in the Eastern Cape province. It is alleged that incidents of extortion is now getting out of hand as the criminals are now targeting schools. Some business owners have closed their outlets while others have fled the town after being threatened for not paying the protection fees. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hawks Eastern Cape spokesperson, Captain Yolisa Mgolodela
The business community in Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape, is has raised concern about the high level of extortion against businesses in Mthatha. Business is grappling with escalating security threats as syndicates, emerging as a disruptive force and demanding protection fees from businesses. The Eastern Cape Business Chamber says this concerning as some businesses are closing down due to syndicates allegedly demanding Protection Fees. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to President of the Eastern Cape Chamber of Business, Vuyisile Ntlabathi
Two parallel councils of the Thabazimbi Local Municipality, in Limpopo, is expected to hold separate council sittings as political infighting continues in the municipality. For more than two years, the municipality has had two parallel councils, one led by the Democratic Alliance and another by the African National Congress coalitions. Both council sittings are expected to discuss the decision of the provincial government to place the municipality under administration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo.
Inflation and the broader cost-of-living crisis are allegedly taking an immense financial and mental toll on South Africa's domestic workers. This as nearly half ( about 46%) of domestic workers in the country are said to still earn less than the legally prescribed minimum wage . This is one of the findings of SweepSouth's annual survey on the compensation and working conditions of domestic workers released yesterday. SweepSouth; an online home services platform that connects homeowners and cleaning professionals recommends, among other things, stricter enforcement of labour laws. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Luke Kannemeyer, COO of SweepSouth
The expelled founding member of the MK Party Jabulani Khumalo is reported to have opened case of fraud against former President Jacob Zuma; leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party for allegedly trying to remove him from official party registration documents without his knowledge. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Political Reporter, Ntebo Mokobo, following his conversation with Khumalo.
The Secretary General of the African National Congress, Fikile Mbalula says the party's national working committee (NWC) descended on KwaZulu-Natal to meet with its structures after the party suffered a massive blow in the 2024 elections - losing its majority. Mbalula says they will do analysis of the party's performance after a significant loss in the province in the recent polls.
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has withdrawn the section 34 determination to proceed with the country's nuclear build to allow for a proper process of public participation. Ramokgopa says while he notes that this will cause delays in the implementation of the nuclear energy program, public participation is necessary in order for the country to scrutinize and respond to the unfolding process, for transparency's sake. Udo Carelse spoke to Hilton Trolllip, Research Associate at Energy Systems Research Group at the Uiversity of Cape Town.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane says efforts to extradite Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife from Malawi are ongoing, as well as the Gupta Brothers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Bushiri made headlines in November 2021 when he and his wife Mary fled South Africa to Malawi after he was granted bail by the Pretoria Magistrates' Court, facing charges of money laundering and fraud. The extradition request of the the Gupta Brothers to the UAE was rejected in April last year, following which South Africa declared them as fugitives. The minister says these cases have faced several challenges, but remains steadfast in pursuit of accountability. The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development was providing an update on departmental priorities and address matters of public interest.
The Socio-Economic Rights Institute - SERI - says only 35 families of the 37 mineworkers who were killed in Marikana in August 2012 have been compensated for their financial loss by the state. it has been 12 years to the day.... since the murders of 34 mineworkers at the infamous Koppie . At least 10 people including mineworkers, police officers and security guards were killed in the days preceding the massacre. According to SERI, there have been no prosecutions for the murders that happened on that fateful day....the 16th of August 2012..SABC reporter,Thabiso Moss compiled the following report...
The Manzini Magistrate's Court, in eSwatini, has granted the extradition to South Africa of two siblings; Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande. The pair are wanted in the country for the murder of Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and his friend 'Tibz' Tebello Motsoane. SABC reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi, brought us this report from the Manzini Magistrate's Court...
Pastor Paseka 'Mboro' Motsweneng and three others are expected to appear in the Palm Ridge court, in Johannesburg, shortly. They are facing charges of assault, intimidation and contravention of the Dangerous Weapons Act. Udo Calse spoke to SABC reporter, Puseletso Mokoena
The Senzo Meyiwa trial has resumed again today in the Pretoria High court, with the defence grilling cellphone data analyst Colonel Lambertus Steyn. Our reporter, Pearl Magubane sent us this report...
Gauteng entrepreneurs and Spaza shop owners have lashed out at the Gauteng department of economic development, for allegedly failing to deliver on promises it made with the introduction of "The Kasi Mnotho Fund". The entrepreneurs say the fund was introduced as a platform for offering strategic loans and empowering local businesses by helping secure trading stock, equipment, machinery and working capital. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo...
EFF deputy president, Floyd Shivhambu has confirmed that he will not be renewing his membership as a member of the party and has also requested that he be relieved from his duties, including as a member of Parliament. Lets us now take you live into that media briefing which is taking place at the party's headquarters in Marshalltown, Johannesburg. Udo Carelse spoke to political analyst, Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast, the Director for the Centre for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution at the Nelson Mandela University
Moroka police together with JMPD members are monitoring the situation at White City-Jabavu, in Soweto following allegations of shops being closed. This comes after some residents are reportedly moving around the township shutting down all spaza-shops owned by foreign nationals, following an alleged assault and shooting of a 21-year-old man who had gone to the spaza store to buy some stuff. Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza says police have arrested one suspect following a shooting incident. For more on this matter we're now joined on the line by Ward 37 Councillor Papi Chetsang
The South African Police Services are investigating the death of a 4 month old at the Happy Owls Day Care Centre in Boksburg. The creche is reportedly not forthcoming as to what really happened, only saying they realized that the baby wasn't breathing when it was time to change nappies. For more on this we spoke to the 4 month old's Family Representative, Robyn Mbonani...
Retired cellphone data analyst Colonel Lambertus Steyn today continues to testify at the High Court in Pretoria where five men are on trial for the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain; Senzo Meyiwa. Steyn says he was requested to look into the phone records of former Senzo Meyiwa's girlfriend and singer Kelly Khumalo as she was then a person of interest and not a suspect at the time. Meyiwa was shot and killed in 2014 while at Khumalo's parent's residence in Vosloorus, on Gauteng's East Rand. Steyn has been recalled to clarify evidence. For more we spoke to our reporter Pearl Magubane...
The High Court in Pretoria has heard of how two of the accused in the VBS Mutual Bank Saga will are willing to go as far as the Constitutional Court to challenge their charges. Former ANC Provincial Treasurer Danny Msiza and former ANC Youth League leader Kabelo Matsepe have brought in an application requesting the court to separate their trial from the rest of the accused in this matter. Meanwhile the Democratic Alliance (DA) is protesting outside the North Gauteng High Court where 13 people accused in the accused in the VBS scandal are appearing for the pre-trial proceedings. The DA says all the politicians who are fingered in the VBS mutual bank saga must face the music.
The ANC in Johannesburg says it has resolved to forward the name of its regional chairperson and current Finance MMC, Dada Morero for the position of the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg. The announcement follows the resignation of Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda. Gwamanda, submitted his resignation to the Speaker of Council today following consultations. Briefing the media in Johannesburg, ANC regional secretary Sasabona Manganye says Gwamanda's resignation is the culmination of robust engagement within the ANC structures and 13 political parties representing the government of local unity. SABC reporter, Mbalenhle Mthethwa spoke to outgoing Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda.
Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda has tendered his resignation following political engagements over the past weeks, which the city says were largely informed by the new political architecture of governance in the country following the 29 May 2024 National and Provincial Elections. Gwamanda becomes the ninth mayor in eight years since the departure of former Mayor Parks Tau, back in 2016. CEO for the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) Wayne Duvenage says Gwamanda's departure is long over due. He was speaking on the Agenda earlier with Ayanda Nyathi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ActionSA's caucus leader in the Johannesburg council, Nobuhle Mthembu.
Judge Seena Yacoob has stood down the legal challenge against the SABC's use of the term "Government of National Unity" to Thursday in the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg. This is to allow the applicants to submit their outstanding papers in the matter. In the founding affidavit before the court, the applicants argue that the ANC and the DA signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) and invited other political parties to join after, which nine other organisations heeded the call. The parties add that while the ANC may embark on a so-called propaganda campaign, accuracy is not a fundamental requirement for its constituency. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
Various South African organisations say teenage pregnancies have reached crisis levels in the country, and can no longer be ignored. To address this matter, Amnesty International South Africa has launched a #ScanTheScar campaign, which aims to raise awareness around child and teenage pregnancies. For more on this matter, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Noluthando Sithole whose organasation; "Children of Success", focuses on helping young girl children reach their life goals and dreams and not falling prey to teenage pregnancy.
Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda has tendered his resignation following political engagements over the past weeks, which the city says were largely informed by the new political architecture of governance in the country following the 29 May 2024 National and Provincial Elections. Gwamanda becomes the ninth mayor in eight years since the departure of former Mayor Parks Tau, back in 2016. CEO for the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) Wayne Duvenage says Gwamanda's departure is long over due. He was speaking on the Agenda earlier with Ayanda Nyathi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Johannesburg Mayoral spokesperson, Mlimandlela Ndamase...
President Cyril Ramaphosa says gender-based violence is a betrayal of the South Africa's constitution. This is as the country is plagued by gendered discrimination which manifest in many ways, most notably as violence against women. Ramaphosa says in recent years, government has worked together with other stakeholders to fight gender-based violence and femicide. Through strategic national plans, government has introduced new laws that protect survivors of GBV that improves the response of the police and ensure harsher sentences to perpetrators. Ramaphosa was speaking at the official National Women's Day celebration in Pofader, in the Northern Cape province.
Members of the Gauteng taxi industry have joined e-hailing officials in condemning acts of violence in the sector at media briefing in Johannesburg. The briefing has put operational issues and challenges relating to reported intimidation and extortion under the spotlight. This is an update on the current state of the e-hailing services within the Gauteng Taxi Industry and challenges faced by both operators and users of the Shesha e-hailing app. There have been numerous reports of violence and extortion related to the services of the App. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Taxi Alliance spokesperson, Theo Malele....
There continues to be widespread reaction to the case involving one of Miss South Africa's contestants for the upcoming annual pageant set to take place on Saturday evening. This follows the announcement by the Home Affairs department which notes that the person recorded in its records as Chidimma Adetshina's mother may have committed fraud and identify theft. Adetshina's entry to the pageant caused a social media storm as it is understood her father is Nigerian while her mother may be from Mozambique. Here is the Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber explaining that the 23-year-old's mother may have some questions to answer to. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Immigration lawyer, Stefanie De Saude Darbandi
Government says its contingent liabilities emanating from court cases stood at 21-billion rand, by the end of March last year. This is according to the minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntsavheni, in a written parliamentary reply. This is the money government envisions to pay for pending legal costs. While it is not unusual for government's to have to make provision for contingent liabilities, some have argued that this amount is quite substantial. Zalene Merrington reports...
Two people are reportedly missing in Chatsworth and Riverlands areas near Malmesbury, in the Western Cape. This after the Riverlands Dam wall burst resulting in flooding in the greater Chatsworth area in the early hours of this morning. Several homes have been destroyed, leaving several residents destitute. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli and Gift of the Givers spokesperson, Ali Sably.
Eastern Cape schools continue to battle with high numbers of teenage pregnancies, with allegedly more than 4,000 girls aged between 10 and 19 having given birth at public healthcare facilities since April 2024. According to Eastern Cape Health Department spokesperson Mkhululi Ndamase, 94 girls in the province between the ages of 10 and 14 have given birth at public health facilities since April, while 3,961 girls and women between the ages of 15 and 19 have given birth during the same period. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports.
We also spoke to Petros Majola- Children's Rights Activist at Khula Community Development in the Eastern Cape.
Nehawu in the North West says the Brits Forensic pathology Mortuary in the Madibeng Local Municipality is not compliant with occupational health and safety measures. Workers argue that the mortuary's standards are not up to stretch and that it should be closed. For more details on this we are now joined on the line by NEHAWU's regional secretary in the province, Shadrack Ramaru
80% of individuals within agrarian households in South Africa are said to be poor and vulnerable. This is according a study by Tshintsha Amakhaya and conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). These are people living in different rural areas such as commercial farms, communal areas of the former 'homelands' who engage in agricultural production, for their own consumption or to sell. This poverty metric is worse for female-headed households. This has been made worse by cost-of-living increases, climate crises and the Covid-19 pandemic. For more on this matter we're now joined on the line by the Lead Researcher of the study Dr Peter Jacobs...
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says over twenty suspects were involved in a shootout with police last night in Khayelitsha township in the Western Cape. Mchunu says he welcomes police's actions when they intercepted a cash-in-transit robbery where 8 suspects were killed and 5 others were arrested. Mchunu says criminals who shoot at police will be met with the full might of the law.
We also spoke to researcher at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, Jenni Irish-Qhobosheane about the proliferation of firearms on South Africa
A church believed to belong to Pastor Paseka 'Mboro' Motsoeneng in Katlehong, South-East of Johannesburg has been vandalized, set alight and is currently on flames. This follows a violent altercation which was circulating on social media yesterday where Pastor Mboro was captured on video wielding two pangas while another man, believed to be his bodyguard, was carrying an assault rifle inside the premises of a local primary school. Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu says at least four people have been arrested in relation to this incident...
Families of the six Mpumalanga learners who died in a collision between a scholar transport bus and goods train have called for justice to prevail ion the wake of the tragedy. This as investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident. Six learners died and the 19 others seriously injured are receiving treatment in different hospitals. Deputy Transport Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa and provincial MEC's visited the school, the scene of the accident and the victims in hospital. Motsebi wa Monareng reports.....
Tensions are brewing at Alexandra township, North of Johannesburg as Power Utility, City Power and law enforcement officials are currently disconnecting and confiscating cables used in unlawful electricity. Technicians began operations at London Road, an area that is traditionally problematic for the power utility, as the utility intensifies its load reduction strategy, with the hope to achieve lower electricity consumption. SABC News reporter, Chriselda Lewis caught up with Power Utility spokesperson, Isaac Mangena. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane
The Gauteng Education Department says all contracts for the province's Gauteng Youth Brigade (GYB) candidates were part of a short-term programme and did not constitute permanent job offers. This as affected individuals - mainly young people - have been protesting outside the education department offices saying they are going anywhere, as they were promised jobs under this program which would lead to them being placed permanently within government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Youth Brigade spokesperson, Mamelo Sekgale and Gauteng Education Department spokesperson, Steve Mabona
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed shock and extended condolences to the families of six children, who lost their lives in the crash involving a bus and a train at a level crossing in Middelburg, Mpumalanga. Twenty learners were taken to the nearest hospitals in Middelburg. This is one of the biggest crashes involving a scholar transport bus in the country. SAFMNews Motsebi wa Monareng reports...
Judgement has been reserved in the dispute over the logo and name of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. The Durban High Court was in session today, where the ANC is challenging the MKP's use of the MK trademark. Meanwhile...ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula speaking at the party's NEC meeting says former president Jacob Zuma's matter is almost final. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAFMNews reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola says the South African police intelligence was aware of the 95 Libyan nationals who were recently arrested at a suspected military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga. Speaking to members of the media earlier today, Masemola added that authorities are in continuous communication with their international counterparts in efforts to address cross border crimes. SAFMNews Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Policing Expert, Dr Johan Burger
As the world commemorates World Ranger Day, Game Rangers Association Association reports that 64 ranger deaths in Africa over the past year, with at least 353 killed by militant groups, terrorists, or poachers. The Associations says rangers are essential to advancing global biodiversity goals and ensuring a sustainable future for both people and nature. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Louise de Bruin from the Game Rangers Association of Africa...
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has condemned the assassination of Hamas political bureau leader Ismail Haniyeh, saying Iran considers it a duty to "avenge the dear guest's blood."The statement came hours after Haniyeh, who was in Tehran to attend Iranian President swearing-in ceremony, was killed at his residence in the capital city in the early hours of Wednesday morning. SAFMNews Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC's International Editor, Sophie Mokoena and Senior research fellow at Africa Asia Dialogue, Thembisa Fakude
The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group's Household Affordability Index has noted increases in items including maize meal (2%), rice (3%), chicken livers (2%) & white bread (3%) in July 2024. The index has revealed a 5% or more, increase in the prices for basic food items such as samp (6%), eggs (5%), and green pepper (6%). For more on this, SAFMNews Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Programme Coordinator for the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group, Mervyn Abrahams.
Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane is this afternoon visiting the families of the two Daveyton Skills School learners who died during a discipline camp for the Daveyton Skills School, in the province's East Rand. Department officials are expected to release an investigative report into the drowning deaths of 15-year-old Siphamandla Peterson and 17-year-old Sibusiso Sibiya, who drowned at Rock Falls Adventure Ranch, in Centurion, on 15 April 2024. MEC Chiloane received the following report from Thembekile Graham from Seanego Attorneys...
The City of Johannesburg, in Gauteng has requested that Stats SA correct Census 2022 figures where the city's population was recorded as being 20% smaller it actually is. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the City's Group Head Strategist, on Policy Coordination and Relation, Zade Ibrahim and Statistician General, Risenga Maluleke.
The Manzini Magistrate's court in the Kingdom of eSwatini has postponed the extradition application of Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande to the 16 of next month for judgement.
The Ndimande siblings are accused of being involved in the murder of Kiernan AKA Forbes and his friend Tebello Motsoane in KwaZulu-Natal, last year.
They are also wanted for two other murder cases and attempted murder.
Mthobisi Mkhaliphi has been following this matter.
Speaker in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, Nontembeko Boyce says there has been no formal complaints around the costs associated with the opening of the provincial legislature, over two days. AmaZulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini is officially opening the legislature in Pietermaritzburg today. This precedes the State of the Province address by Premier Thami Ntuli tomorrow. AmaZulu King, Misizulu ka Zwelithini earlier called for better consultation between the house and traditional leaders...
ANC veterans have welcomed the decision by the party's national disciplinary committee to expel former president, President Jacob Zuma. Party veteran League Deputy President, Mavuso Msimang says the decision to expel Zuma is long over due. Zuma has 21 days to appeal his expulsion from the party. Msimanga meanwhile says the ANC has been negligent and slow in dealing with the Zuma matter
The 95 Libyan nationals arrested at a camp resembling a military training base in Masoyi near White River in Mpumalanga are expected to appear in court today. The Libyans were arrested at the camp originally designated for security training following a raid that official from the police and Home Affairs conducted last Friday. The men are facing charges of Contravention of the Immigration Act. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Michael Mdluli and Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Donald Mdhluli.
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says the unbundling of Eskom will assist in ensuring that government has a better grip of South Africa energy situation. Speaking to members of the media earlier today, Ramokgopa outlined the South Africa's recovery plan for energy security, growth and sustainability, adding that there is a need for the country's national annual tariff increase methodology to be reviewed.
The community of uMthwalume are protesting outside the local Magistrate's court where a 16-year-old teenager who's been charged with murder and rape will be making an appearance. The suspect is said to be linked to other serious crimes in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Fanele Mhlongo in KZN....
The Annual Judiciary Report has revealed that superior courts achieved 85-percent of their performance targets for the 2022/23 financial year. The judiciary had set 13 targets and achieved 11. Two performance targets were not achieved which, among others, relate to the performance of finalised Constitutional Court matters. Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo was delivering the report before dignatories in the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg ...
Economic Freedom Fighters leader, Julius Malema says he is available to lead the party for another term. Malema spoke to SABC news ahead of the party's birthday celebrations in the Northern Cape on Saturday. The party will host its 11th anniversary rally at the AR Abass Sports ground in Kimberely. Sibahle Motha reports...
Radio consumption in South Africa continues to thrive with listenership consistently higher than the global average. According to the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) which is South Africa's Industry Measurement Dashboard. In 2024, not much has changed, however, more South Africans are also tuning into their favourite stations via the internet. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chris Borain, IAB board director, head of the audio committee
Mpumalanga police have begun processing 95 Libyan nationals arrested this morning during a raid at a suspected military training camp, in Masoyi, outside White River. The Home Affairs department began investigations after local residents raised concerns over a group of foreign nationals suspected to have misrepresented themselves when applying for Visas in order to enter the country. It is alleged that they came in the country to train as security personnel since April this year, however, the police say it looks like the group has been doing millitary training. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Motsebi waMonareng
The South African Human Rights Commission or SAHRC says the police service failed in its basic mandate to detect the planning and execution of the violent unrest and looting, which devastated parts of Kwazulu-Natal and Gauteng in July 2021. Initially released in January 2024 in KwaZulu-Natal, the July Unrest Report was launched today for the second time in Gauteng, a province that was also severely impacted by the violence and looting. The unrest resulted in over 350 fatalities and extensive damage to businesses and shopping centres running into billions of rands. South African Human Right Commissioner, Prof Tshepo Madlingozi had this to say.
The Skukuza Magistrate Court, in Mbombela is expected to sentence three men who were convicted of poaching related charges in May this year. Thirty-three-year-old Dominic Mnisi,31-year-old Ayanda Ngomane and 31-year-old Lwazi Malambe were convicted of seven counts including, trespassing at a national park, hunting of rhinoceros in a nation park and possession of unlicensed firearm, among charges. For more on this and a look at the fight against rhino poaching in South Africa, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SANParks spokesperson, Ike Phaahla.
The Democratic Alliance says President Cyril Ramaphosa 'unintentionally' violated the Electoral Code of Conduct when he addressed the country as Head of State shortly before the May 29th Provincial and National Elections. The matter is currently being heard by Electoral Court despite the DA's contention that it tried to reach an out of court settlement with the presidency. Legal counsel for the DA, Advocate Anthony Stein says the address by Ramaphosa was an abuse of a state institution for party political purposes. Here is a snippet of how this point was deliberated on in court...
The Road Traffic Management Corporation is today raiding trucking companies that owe millions of rands in vehicle license fees. This operation started last week in Gauteng where they raided over 23 companies. They have already identified more than one thousand 700 trucks in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. This recent operation is happen between Ogies and Emalahleni today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhalipi in Mpumalanga....
Civil Society Groups combined under the banner of the Joburg Crisis Alliance have threaten to take to the streets if Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda does not resign immediately. The group says crippling services in joburg cannot go on unabated. The alliance comprises of several civic organisations including the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, Defend Our Democracy and the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA, among others. Executive Director at the Kathrada Foundation, Neeshan Balton
The first South African female wheelchair Wimbledon winner Kgothatso Montjane says people with disabilities should be given equal opportunities to showcase their talents in sports. The three-time Grand slam champion Montjane was speaking in Polokwane. She has been congratulated for her recent Wimbledon victory. The event was organised by the Limpopo government. Montjane is pleading with the authorities to build tennis courts which can be accessible by kids, including those with disabilities, in order to unearth talents. Michael Makungo prepared this report:
Dozens of anti-corruption protesters have been detained in the Ugandan capital of Kampala. Reports indicate that at least 60 protesters - mainly students - have been charged and jailed. These include a television presenter and three protest leaders. For the latest we are now joined on the line by our East Africa correspondent, Leon Ssenyange...
The Premier Soccer League is set to kick-off on the 3rd of next month with a new sponsor in Betway. This was officially annoucned a short while ago by the PSL chairman Dr Ivan Khoza. The annoucement comes at the back of now former sponsor, DStv withdrawing from its sponsorship deal a year before its conclusion. PSL chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza explains...
U.S Vice President, Kamala Harris took a swipe at Donald Trump at her first campaign rally since replacing President Joe Biden as the Democratic presidential candidate, while a Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll showed her taking a marginal lead over her Republican rival. In a 17-minute speech, Harris aggressively went after Trump's vulnerabilities, comparing her background as a former prosecutor to his record as a convicted felon. Here is the latest reporter from the Reuters News Agency.
The annual consumer price inflation is now at 5.1% in June 2024, down from 5.2% in May. This is expected to provide some relief for consumers as inflation eased. Stats SA has released data today , which shows that inflation has remained outside the central bank's midpoint target of four-point-five per cent. The rate for food and non-alcoholic beverages also edged lower to four-point-six per cent last month after stalling at four-point-seven per cent in May and April. It is the lowest since September 2020. Here is Patrick Kelly, Chief Director for Price Statistics at Stats SA
Cellphone data expert, Pinky Vythilingam has returned to the High Court in Pretoria as the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial continues. Yesterday, Vythilingam placed accused one of the accused Mthobisi Mncube in Vosloorus earlier on the day of the murder. The defence counsel Charles Mnisi took Vythilingam through the movement of Mcube'scellphone on October the 26th 2014. Five men are on trial for gunning down the Bafana Bafana captain. According to the state, Meyiwa was murdered between eight pm and nine pm. Mnisi says Mncube was still in the Johannesburg CBD after eight-30 pm - away from the crime scene on evening of the murder... Pearl Magubane has more on this
Some members of uMkhonto Wesizwe Party gathered at Beyers Naude Square in Johannesburg say they too, hold dual membership of both the MK Party and the ANCThe small crowd has gathered near Luthuli House in order to show support to former ANC President Jacob Zuma. Zuma, represented by former ANC NEC member Tony Yengeni is appearing before the ANC's national disciplinary hearing on a virtual platform. The former ANC President has been charged under rule 25 of the ANC constitution for endorsing the MK party in the 29 May polls. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha...
VBS Mutual Bank's minority shareholders forum has called for the bank to be resuscitated. Thousands of depositors, investors, and municipalities have lost millions of rand when the bank was declared insolvent in 2018. The forum believes that government did not do enough to save the bank from collapsing. VBS shareholders forum's Robert Livhoyi says all the recovered funds should be utilised to revive the bank. Livhoyi was speaking during a media briefing in Thohoyandou....
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has picked up the key endorsement of former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi while potential rivals have also fallen in line to back her path to the Democratic Party's Presidential nomination. Harris has picked up dozens of endorsements from members of Congress and key Governors across the country after President Joe Biden announced he would no longer seek re-election while endorsing his VP of the last three and half years for the top job. In her first public remarks since Sunday's announcement, Harris praised Biden's legacy of accomplishments as unmatched in modern history. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports...
The corruption case against former Sports and and Arts Minister Zizi Kodwa and his co-accused, Jehan Mackay, has been postponed until next month by the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Ekurhuleni. They pair stands accused of corruption amounting to R1.6million. Shortly before the recent election, Kodwa resigned as Minister stating that he wants to clear his name. Here is what the presiding judge in the matter had to say...
Officials from the Asset Forfeiture Unit, the Special Investigating Unit and the Hawks are currently carrying out a joint operation in Mpumalanga that has seen authorities seize assets and properties belonging to senior officials, service providers and companies linked to a R 52.6-million corruption network in the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works. The operation follows a preservation court order obtained by the Asset Forfeiture Unit, which was recently issued by the High Court in Mbombela. The case relates to personal protective equipment tenders issued by the department in 2020 and 2021.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago
The South African Emergency Personnel's Union has expressed concern over what it calls the continuing senseless attacks of emergency services personnel while they are on duty. In one such case, emergency personnel rushed to attend to a call at Clau-Clau section in Mpumalanga, before their arrival, family members of the patient continuously made calls to the control centre making threats, which resulted in a scuffle with the emergency services personnel. The South African Emergency Personnel's Union says it is concerned that such instances have become commonplace. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAEPU President, Mpho Mpogeng.
Despite evidence provided by Vodacom's Forensic liaison supervisor, Pinky Vythilingam that the number of accused number 2 in the Senzo Meyiwa case was active while incarcerated - defence counsel Sipho Ramosepele maintains the phones were confiscated upon his arrest. Ramosepele, who represents Bongani Ntanzi has been cross-examining Vythilingam at the High Court in Pretoria on the cellphone activities and towers. Ntanzi is part of five men accused of the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana soccer captain. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane.
US Vice President, Kamala Harris wasted no time launching her 2024 presidential campaign, seeking the support of fellow Democrats with the backing of President Joe Biden after he pulled out of the race amid concerns about his age and health. Her campaign officials and allies made hundreds of calls on behalf of Harris on Sunday, urging delegates to the Democratic Party convention next month to join in nominating her for president in the Nov. 5 election against Republican Donald Trump. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says addressing the scourge of crime in the Eastern and Western Cape provinces will be part of key priorities his department will keep a close eye on. Mchunu concluded his two-day Ministerial stakeholder engagements in Gqeberha, which kicked off in the Western Cape on Saturday. Under resourced police stations and lack of police visibility topped the agenda in the Eastern Cape. SABC reporter Ntombozuko Balintulo filed the following report....
ActionSA says it has agreed in principle to work with the ANC in the Johannesburg metro only if the ANC, immediately removes current Joburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda. Party president, Herman Mashaba adds that the second condition the ANC has agreed to commit to in order to get the support of the ANC, is the immediate reversal of the two-hundred rand charge imposed by City Power on prepaid user. Mashaba, together with his senior party members have been addressing the media following the party's Senate meeting at the weekend. Mashaba explains the party's revised position in working with the ANC...
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal tasked with probing a complaint against suspended Judge Tintswalo Makhubele has convened in Johannesburg as hearings continue into the allegations leveled against Makhubele .The civil civil society organisation, #UniteBehind, alleges that Makhubele violated the separation of powers principle by being both a Judge and chairperson of a state-owned company and allegedly advancing corruption and state capture. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe...
The Special Investigation Unit says the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has failed to design and implement controls to ensure that there is an annual reconciliation between the funds disbursed to institutions of higher learning and the allocation of those funds to the students. This as the SIU has urged students who received NSFAS funds unduly to come forward. The SIU says its in the process of collecting more that 112 Million rands from beneficiaries who did not qualify to be funded by NSFAS. Udo Carelse spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago
Civil society organisation, Joburg Crisis Alliance is calling for the resignation of the Johannesburg Executive Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, citing a sharp decline in citizen confidence and continuing failures by the city's leadership. The organisation says that under Gwamanda, the city's mishandling electricity tariffs and water cuts have intensified. It says that it be embarking on a mass demonstration next week to support this call. Udo Carelse spoke to convener of Joburg Crisis Alliance, Ishmael Mkhabela
Major US airlines have grounded flights across the country, citing communication issues, in what appears to be related to a global IT outage, which affected banks, emergency services and airports around the world on Friday morning. American Airlines has blamed what it calls technical issue on Crowdstrike, an antivirus software. Here in South Africa, there were delays in updating the Johannesburg Stock Exchange's data, with Capitec bank also severely affected, as customers could not transact or communicate with the bank. Udo Carelse spoke to Broadband Editor, Jan Vermulen...
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi says over 30 suspects have been shot in shootouts with the police. Mkhwanazi has provided an update on the state of policing in the province, including arrests, detection performance, shootouts as well as progress on high profile cases. Mkhwanazi says the deployment of additional police officers to the province to monitor crime hotspots in the run-up to and during the national and provincial elections in May assisted crime prevention efforts. Udo Carelse spoke to Violence monitor and UKZN researcher, Mary De Haas
Princess Masindi Mphephu, who is challenging her uncle, Toni Mphephu Ramabulana for the Vhavenda throne, has disputed a view that she does not qualify to ascend the throne because she was born before her late father was inaugurated. Princess Mphephu, daughter of the late chief of Vhavenda, Tshimangadzo Dimbanyika Mphephu is being cross-examined by Prince Toni Mphephu Ramabulana's lawyer, Carlos Da Silva. Thirty two-year-old princess Mphephu is challenging her uncle the crown at the Polokwane High court, Limpopo. The matter is being heard before three Judges. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Polokwane, Limpopo, Michael Makunga.
A memorial service is expected to get underway today for the eleven learners who died in a car crash in Merafong, west of Johannesburg last week. Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane is expected to attend the service which will be held at the Grace Bible Church, in Carltonville, west of Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Monique Lewis.
Five households of the Bambanani family have been torched in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape, after they were accused of witchcraft. The family alleges that they were forced to leave the Emakhwalweni village and never return. Now, they are homeless with no documents, food or clothes, whilst the children have had been forced to drop out of school. Our reporter Nomzwanele Mngoma filed this report...
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntsavheni, says government is working diligently to combat organised crime, which is one of the threats to State Security. She was presenting the State Security Agency budget during a mini plenary in Parliament. The minister says the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, is part of their efforts aimed at strengthening security in the country. It has not yet been signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Zalene Merrington reports...
South Africa's Presidential Climate Commission has recommended the country establish a body to guide investment in the country's energy transition. The Commission's recommendations come almost three years after the country entered into the Just Energy Transition Partnership with the US, UK, Germany, France and the European Union. In an effort to better understand the Just Energy Transition landcaspe, delegates have gathered for the Climate Resilience Symposium at the CSIR Convention Centre in Pretoria. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Researcher on the Climate and Inequality Project at the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies at Wits University, Katrina Lehman-Grube.
Rwandans are voting today in a presidential election that is expected to extend the long rule of President Paul Kagame, who has held power since 1994. Voters will elect the president and 53 members of the lower House of Parliament on Monday, while 27 other MPs will be elected the following day. Election authorities say 9.5 million Rwandans are registered to vote in the population of 14 million. Provisional results are expected later today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Channel Africa's Micheal Mbewe
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu says his ministry will focus on the rollout of technology to detect and deter crime, as part of South Africa's safety and security priorities. Speaking to members of the media earlier today, Mchunu said murder, rape, hijackings and kidnappings for ransom remain some of most prevalent crimes in the country...
KwaZulu-Natal Provincial cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has called for the parts of the province that have been affected by the fires, to be declared disaster areas. Buthelezi, says that the province is going through a devastating time. He was reacting to the fires that are currently engulfing different parts of the province that claimed the lives of 6 firefighters and injured several others yesterday. For an update on the situation we're now joined on the line by the KwaZulu-Natal cooperative governance and traditional affairs spokesperson, Senzo Mzila
U.S. President Joe Biden says the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump is contrary to everything America stands for as a nation. The incumbent made remarks after meeting with his national security team, in the situation room at the White House. Biden indicated that the FBI was leading the investigation and that they had yet to establish a motive to the attack -- urging people not to make assumptions about the shooter's motivations or affiliations. The President said he had been consistent in his direction to the Secret Service to provide his Republican rival with every resource and protective measures to ensure his continued safety as investigations into the incident continue. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the impact of climate change on South Africa's economy, with the shipping industry adversely affected. This after winter storms along the country's west and east coasts recently disrupted shipping operations to the extent that the transport authority, Transnet ordered the temporary suspension of ship movement. Speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium, hosted by the National Treasury in Pretoria, Ramaphosa says the inclement weather affecting the Western Cape to has shown the light on the country's extreme vulnerability to climate change.
The Medical Research Council says the 2022 South African census is unfit for purpose and may not be reliable as a source for planning and resource allocation. This follows a report by the Council which reveals that the Stats SA 2022 census population estimates of 62 Million people is overrated by a million people and that there are material discrepancies at district and municipal level. Half of this excess is attributable to overestimates of the Indian, Asian and white population groups. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tom Moultrie, professor of demography at the University of Cape Town.
A forensic investigation by the Eastern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs has found that a R20 million-rand tender awarded for the construction of the Lesseyton Sportsfield, outside Komani, was awarded irregularly. COGTA MEC, Zolile Williams tabled the report to the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality council on Wednesday, adding that the investigation had revealed that the contractor escalated prices during the project without following tender processes. The controvertial tender was cancelled but work continued without it being advertised. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Pheello Oliphant ...
The sporting fraternity has announced the passing of renowned senior official and South African football legend Stanely "Screamer" Tshabalala last night. Tshabalala died from injuries suffered when he was shot in March and has been hospitalised since. He was 75 years old. Former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana Tebogo Moloi had this to say about the late football legend Stanely "Screamer" Tshabalala
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) says its pursuing more people in the VBS case. This comes after the Chartered Accountant, Tshifhiwa Matodzi was sentenced to an effective 15-years imprisonment by the High Court in Johannesburg on Wednesday. He pleaded guilty to fraud-related charges linked to the looting of one-point-nine billion rand at the bank. Speaking to my colleague Clement Mayathela on Face The Nation, Hawks Head Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya says anyone, regardless of their political affiliations, who has had their hand in the cookie jar, will be visited.
The Communication Risk Information Centre (COMRiC) is upping the ante in dealing with the proliferation of SIM cards in the country. It has assisted in arresting individuals involved in a major SIM card fraud operation in Gauteng and the Free State. Forty-eight suspects have been arrested so far. 45 in Johannesburg and 3 in Bloemfontein, all of whom are foreign nationals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to COMRiC CEO, Adv Thokozani Mvelase.
Western Cape authorities say evacuation orders have been issued in Citrusdal and the Cape Winelands, with possible evacuations in areas in the Drakenstein municipality. Officials provided an update on the impact of the storm damage and the response of various agencies and departments since the series of cold fronts hit the province on Sunday. Over 15-thousand people have been affected, with disruptions due to road closures, power outages, damages to schools and flooded homes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke head of the Western Cape Department of Social Development, Dr Robert Macdonald
The City of Ekurhuleni says vehicle owners who had their cars impounded before the 31 of December 2023 have until 3pm tomorrow to make arrangements and collect them. Over a hundred and forty vehicles are kept at the metro's police department for various reasons such as being impounded after being involved in accidents and for contravening the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996 or the city's by-laws. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ekurhuleni Metro spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini who says vehicles not claimed will be disposed off. He now joins us on the line for further details...
Western Cape authorities say evacuation orders have been issued in Citrusdal and the Cape Winelands, with possible evacuations in areas in the Drakenstein municipality. Officials provided an update on the impact of the storm damage and the response of various agencies and departments since the series of cold fronts hit the province on Sunday. Over 15-thousand people have been affected, with disruptions due to road closures, power outages, damages to schools and flooded homes. Mlamli Maneli reports...
The judgment in the Life Esidimeni Inquest will be handed down by the High Court in Pretoria today. This follows a tragic incident where more than 100 people with mental illness lost their lives in 2016. One-hundred and forty-four mental health care users were relocated from Life Esidimeni in 2015 and 2016 to ill-prepared non-governmental organisations. The judgment will be delivered virtually by Judge Mmonoa Teffo. Lerato Makola reports....
Former ANC MP, Cyril Xaba has been elected as new mayor of the eThekwini metro. He replaces Mxolisi Kaunda, whom the ANC redeployed to the National Council of Provinces following the May elections. ActionSA leader in the council, Zwakhele Mncwango also nominated the DA chief whip Thabani Mthethwa, who declined. Mncwango earlier said the new mayor should not come from the ANC ranks in the light of the challenges the city is facing. Following his election, Xaba undertook that service delivery will be one of his top priorities. He says the recent extended water outage in Hillcrest and Clermont Extension is unacceptable...
The security situation in eastern DRC continue to deteriorate, reaching alarming levels of violence and civilian displacement. That was the message to the Security Council from the Special Representative of the Secretary General Bintou Keita, who is also the head of the U.N's Peacekeeping operation MONUSCO in that country. Keita raised alarm at the rapid expansion of the M23-rebel group despite the collaborative operations of MONUSCO in support of the DRC Army and the SADC mission known as SAMIDRC. According to the United States indicated more than 4000 Rwanda troops were present on DRC soil saying its military interventions and operations in North Kivu extended beyond mere support for the M23 operations, to direct and decisive involvement, calling Kigali's actions irresponsible. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Freedom Under Law (FUL) says it will challenge Umkhonto We Sizwe party Parliament leader, Dr John Hlophe's designation as a member of the Judicial Service Commission(JSC) on grounds of rationality and rule of law. FUL says it notes the National Assembly's decision to appoint Hlophe, now an uMkhonto We Sizwe party MP, as one of the representatives of the National Assembly on the JSC. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Research Consultant at FUL, Chris Oxtoby now joins us on the line for more
Emergency service personnel from the Merafong City Local Municipality are continuing their work at the scene of a car accident that claimed the lives of 12 school learners & their driver earlier today. Initial reports indicate that the learners were travelling in a private scholar transport mini-bus when the tragic accident occurred. Following news of the tragedy, Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane expressed his deep sadness over the incident which occurred on Wednesday morning
As schools across the country re-opened for the third term today, some learners have been forced to kick off their first day under bitterly cold conditions with no roof over their heads. In the North West, learners are forced to walk long distances to school as they do not have scholar transport. At Gaetsalwe Primary School learners have reportedly been using a community structure as there are no adequate classes. In Jozini, north of KwaZulu-Natal, learners started their first day under a roofless structure. For more on the current weather conditions causing havoc across the country, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Meteorologist, Azwi Tuwani
The corruption case against former National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has been postponed to the 16th of October 2024 where pre-trial proceedings are expected to get underway in the high court in Pretoria. Mapisa-Nqakula made a brief appearance this morning before the Pretoria Magistrates Court where an indictment was served after the former Speaker was accused of soliciting four-million rand in bribes from a defence contractor during her tenure as Defence Minister. She faces 12 counts of corruption and one of money laundering. Magistrate Vusumuzi Mahlangu...
Citizens have been urged to desist from making open fires, as the country expects the worse fire season, this year as compared to previous years. Just this past weekend, Working on Fire in Mpumalanga has recorded more than 26 wildfires in the province. This as 26 teams of firefighters are on standby to assist should the need arise. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports.
As schools across the country re-opened for the academic third term today, some learners have been forced to kick off their first day under bitterly cold conditions with no roof over their heads. In the North West, learners are forced to walk long distances to school as they do not have scholar transport. In Jozini, north of KwaZulu-Natal, learners started their first day under a roofless structure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
As schools across the country re-opened for the third term today, some learners have been forced to kick off their first day under bitterly cold conditions with no roof over their heads. In the North West, learners are forced to walk long distances to school as they do not have scholar transport. At Gaetsalwe Primary School learners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Mahikeng, Zebilon Maine
Eastern Cape traffic officials have closed Barkly Pass, on the R58 route between Barkly East and Elliot, this morning due to heavy snowfalls. The Eastern Cape Transport Department says some vehicles are stuck in the snow on the R58. Authorities are also keeping an eye on snowfall-prone routes such as Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and Jamestown and others mainly in mountainous areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson, Unathi Binqose
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosi Ramakgopa says the country's energy sector faces a new challenge of 'energy poverty' which is expressed through the implementation of load reduction by various local municipalities. Ramakgopa says this is due to under investment and a lack of maintenance of municipal energy infrastructure in municipalities. Ramakgopa gave his first weekly energy update since the new administration came into office from Pretoria earlier. He says the power grid continues to improve but a new challenge threatens to collapse the strikes made thus far in ending load shedding...
Chairperson of the South African Internationally Trained Health Professionals Association (Saithpa), Advocate Rene Govender, has accused the Health Profession Council of South Africa (HPCSA) of deliberately hindering foreign-trained doctors from passing their board exams. The association has questioned the high failure rate among the doctors who wrote the exams in October 2023 and February 2024, saying something sinister is at play as the HPCSA denied students access to their scripts to review and verify alleged discrepancies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Department for Core Operations at the Health Profession Council of South Africa (HPCSA) David Mametja.
Heavy rains and strong winds are expected to lash coastal areas of both the Western and Eastern Cape until Friday. This as parts of Cape Town remain submerged under water while thousands have been displaced. Residents in informal settlements have been hardest hit especially low areas of Khayelitsha township. There has also been damaged to key infrastructure such as roads, bridges and electrical poles. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter in Cape Town, Mlamli Maneli.
The Democratic Alliance's (DA's) ICT draft policy reveales that it would propose holding public hearings to determine whether South Africa needs a public broadcaster. If it is determined that South Africa no longer requires the SABC, the DA would propose that it be broken up and sold. The DA's draft policy highlights several other proposals and determines if the public broadcaster should be scrapped. These proposals are for scenarios where South Africa decides that the SABC should remain. Former South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) board member Michael Markovitz joins us on the line to share his views on this matter....
Mpumalanga MEC for Community safety, security and liaison, Jacke Macia and Acting Provincial Commissioner, Zeph Mkhwanazi are today visiting the bereaved families of the two children who were reported missing in Mpumalanga recently. Junior Mabandla went missing in the beginning of last month and Peaceful Khosa disappeared this week on Wednesday. The community launched a man hunt and search and eventually apprehended a man who was found burning what he called rubbish, when interrogated about the the whereabouts of the three-year-old, it was discovered that he had allegedly killed her before allegedly burning her body in the rubbish. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, in Mpumalanga, Motsebi Wa Monareng...
The Labour Court has granted an interdict to American multinational automobile manufacturer, Ford against an on ongoing strike by employees demanding a share in the company's profits. The interdict has ordered striking workers to stop demonstrations and go back to work today. Workers affiliated to the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) have downed tools at the company for a second day of demonstrations at the company's Silverton plant in Pretoria. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Katlego Legodi...
The Department of Social Development has expressed shock and dismay at a video that has gone viral on social media platforms, which a man is purportedly seen assaulting an elderly woman. Minister Sisisi Tolashe says she has instructed officials to follow up on the information at their disposal to ensure that the perpetrator is brought to book. In a statement, the department noted a concern over the increase in the number of older persons who are abused despite government's efforts to strengthen key guiding legislation and related frameworks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Director responsible to Older Persons at the National Department of Social Development, Civil Legodu.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni government priorities are still based on the Medium Term Strategic Framework even under the Government of National Unity. Ntshavheni has been briefing the media in Cape Town on the Government of National Unity following the swearing-in ceremony of the 76 members of the National Executive in the seventh administration. Ntshavheni has outlined government's priorities and a program of action as articulated in the statement of intent....
Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi has rejected claims by the Democratic Alliance that the ANC blatantly refused to consider giving them more cabinet seats. Lesufi has announced his 10-member cabinet to lead the provincial government for next five year term. He says the DA initially accepted a maximum of three out of 10 cabinet seats, but later turned around to say they want 5. The DA said it will not form part of the provincial executive, saying the offer of three MEC positions made by the ANC was unfair and unreasonable. The DA says it will proudly fill the opposition benches in the Gauteng legislature. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Council Chairperson, Helen Zille and Political Analyst, Dr Levy Ndou.
2024 BET Award-winner Makhadzi, has received a warm welcome at the OR Tambo International Airport. Limpopo-born artist, won the 2024 BET Awards in the United States. Makhadzi won the Viewer's Choice: Best New International Act. Makhadzi has reflected on her journey and thanked her family and loved ones for always pushing her to pursue her dreams
Newly-appointed Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu says he is aware of the high crime rate in the country. Mchunu is taking over from former police minister Bheki Cele. He says ready for the job and wants to tackle some key priority challenges facing South Africa, such as high rates of murder, rape, and hijacking amongst others. Meanwhile... The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) says firearm crime and policing policy should top new SA police minister's agenda. ISS says South Africa's police service needs renewal and clear direction, and it is ready to assist Mchunu. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Consultant and Independent Researcher with the Institute of Security Studies (ISS), David Bruce
The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng has lashed out at the ANC in the province, claiming that they are refusing to take their proposals for a new executive seriously. This follows yet another deadlock in negotiations between the parties, resulting in Premier Panyaza Lesufi postponing his cabinet announcement for the second time, last night. According to the ANC in Gauteng, Lesufi was ready to make the announcement, however they were urged by national leadership to try and find a solution to the impasse. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Patriotic Alliance deputy president Kenny Kunene and African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) spokesperson in Gauteng Bishop Dulton Adams
The Giyani Municipality in Limpopo says fire fighters are continuing efforts to extinguish a fire that broke out at the municipality's head-quarters earlier today. Municipal spokesperson Steven Mabunda says while no injuries have been reported, the cause of the fire is yet to be established. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Jabulani Baloi.
The National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has officially commenced trading with the power utility, ESKOM. The NTCSA is one of Eskom's legal separation into three entities, namely generation, distribution and transmission. The division, is expected to operate according to the market code, ensuring fair access to the grid for all those qualified to generate electricity in an open-access market. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom Board chairperson, Mteto Nyati on the entity's focus on South Africa's power grid.
uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) leader, Jacob Zuma has reportedly relieved the party's treasurer-general of her duties. The decision comes just hours after secretary-general Arthur Zwane resigned from the party, citing the volume of work in the office. Zuma in a letter on Monday told Danisa Zulu that she should hand over her responsibilities to a new treasury-general. Zuma did not provide reasons for his decision. For an analyisis into the affairs of uMkhonto weSizwe party (MK), we're now joined on the line by Politics Lecturer and Political Expert at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Zakhele Ndlovu
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News has launched a television programme dedicated to marking this important milestone. In this week's edition, Update@Noon zooms in on the current generation of young leaders in the political arena, as they share their sentiments on economic emancipation. Unemployment has been at the centre of discussions and debates of pertinent issues that affect the country's economic growth and development. Young people say while challenges are ongoing, there are visible changes that have been made in people's lives. Ishmael Modiba reports.
US government has launched 'Atlanta Phambili' initiative, aimed at advancing the positive bilateral relationship between the United States and South Africa. The launch of the Africa Trade Desk, a signature trade platform from Prosper Africa that links large U.S. food retailers to African producers. The announcement was made during the Atlanta Phambili: A Trade & Investment Gateway to Africa & South Africa event, an event highlighting the economic relationship between the United States and Africa, with a spotlight on South Africa. The United States of America's Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety now joins us in the studio
The seventh administration has seen an increase of about 18-percent in its composition. The size of South Africa's Executive has increased to 77, including the President and the Deputy President. President Cyril Ramaphosa has accommodated other political parties in the composition of his Executive. During the sixth administration, the Executive comprised of 65 members after the addition of the Minister of Electricity in the last reshuffle. The President announced his Executive during a late televised addressed last night after weeks of toing and froing during negotiations. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
The National Health Laboratory Service says its systems have not yet been fully restored, following a security breach that compromised its information technology infrastructure last Saturday. The NHLS is the country's diagnostic pathology service for public healthcare facilities and comprises a network of two hundred and sixty-five laboratories. For more on this we are joined on the line by Professor Koleka Mlisana, National Health Laboratory Service Chief Executive Officer
KwaZulu-Natal's newly appointed MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure - Martin Meyer -says he plans to establish a task team to fight against the construction mafia in the province. The construction mafia have been sabotaging private and public infrastructure projects across the country. The gangs use mafia-style tactics to hijack construction sites, demanding money or protection fees from contractors who have been awarded tenders for infrastructure projects. For more on this we are joined on the line by KZN Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Martin Meyer....
The Democratic Alliance says it has decided to continue its negotiations with the African National Congress over the formation of the Government of National Unity, despite the disagreements over positions for cabinet ministers. During a special DA Federal Executive meeting last night the DA decided to continue discussions through the weekend. Earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa lashed out at the party saying that he believed the party had jeopardized the foundations of the GNU in a final written letter to DA leader, Jonh Steenhuisen regarding the latest cabinet negotiations. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC News reporter, Samkele Maseko....
The National Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya says cash-in-transit robberies continue to be a problem in South Africa. Lebeya was briefing media to outline progress made and take stock of milestones achieved during the 4th and last quarter of financial year 2023/2024. He says the CIT robbers are ruthless and do not care about the lives of bystanders.
The Molopo Magistrate's Court in Mahikeng has transferred to the North West High Court, the case against Agnes Setshwantsho who is alleged to have killed her niece, Bonolo Modisaemang, in order to cash in on a life insurance policy worth R3-million. SABC News reporter, Thabiso Moss is following the story for us and filed this report....
The Head of United Nations Peacekeeping has expressed his deepest condolences to South Africa after the loss of two soldiers serving in the SADC force deployed in the eastern DRC. The SANDF earlier confirmed that they were killed and an additional 20 soldiers injured during a rebel M23 attack on the town of Sake, in North Kivu Province. The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, prompted by a question from SABC News, explained that co-ordination between SAMIDRC, the U.N. Peacekeeping Mission MONUSCO and the DRC's Armed Forces - The FARDC - continued in the context of a complex security environment in the east. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Professor Thomas Mandrup.
The Thabo Mbeki Foundation, in collaboration with other foundations including the Steve Biko Foundation, and Chief Albert Luthuli Foundation, are calling for a National Dialogue aimed at uniting the country and to reflect on its future. Chairperson of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi says South Africa is in a crisis. She was speaking at a joint event with other foundations on the future of the country at the Mandela Sanctuary today.
Analysts predict that the ANC's stance regarding corruption accused members may not bode well for the party in future. This comes after former Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, was sworn in as a Member of Parliament for the ANC on Tuesday (25 June). This is despite corruption allegations levelled against Kodwa and his appearance in court earlier this month. However, at its special NEC meeting in March, the ANC decided to allow public representatives who have stepped aside to attend sittings of the legislative bodies and committees. Kodwa subsequently resigned from his ministerial post and as a member of the ANC's National Executive Committee. However, it appears that he may still occupy public office despite the ANC's step-aside resolution. Zoleka Qodashe compiled this report...
Kenyan President William Ruto has withdrawn the contentious finance bill that sparked nationwide deadly protests. Ruto says he has listened to the people and expressed his condolences to the families who lost loved ones during the demonstrations. Scores of protesters stormed some sections of the country's parliament yesterday. This after lawmakers had voted in favour of tax hikes seeking to raise an additional 2,7 billion dollars. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Allan Ngari, Advocacy Director for the Africa Division at Human Rights Watch
Kenyan President William Ruto has withdrawn the contentious finance bill that sparked nationwide deadly protests. Ruto says he has listened to the people and expressed his condolences to the families who lost loved ones during the demonstrations. Scores of protesters stormed some sections of the country's parliament yesterday. This after lawmakers had voted in favour of tax hikes seeking to raise an additional 2,7 billion dollars. SABC News reporter, Khayelihle Khumalo has more.
The University of Cape Town's Council has adopted a resolution which calls for the boycotting of all Israeli academic institutions and researchers who are affiliated to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). The resolution was passed amid continued intensive fighting in Gaza. Corbin August reports...
United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern about the violence that has marred Kenya's mass protests against proposed tax rises, adding that he is saddened by reports of deaths, injuries and arbitrary detentions by police in Nairobi. Guterres has urged the Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint. The protests erupted over a week ago after the country's Finance Minister, Njuguna Ndung'u unveiled the latest national budget, which included plans to reduce the cost of living and spur a vibrant rebound from the Covid-19 pandemic. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Khayelihle Khumalo and chairperson of the association of Kenyans in SA, Ben Maina
The Nelspruit Regional Court in Mbombela is expected to hand down judgement in the rape case against a former Mpumalanga MEC for Finance who is accused of the rape of his two daughters. The former African National Congress Provincial Executive Committee member and his stepson were arrested in 2020 for allegedly raping the man's 8-year-old daughters. The man, who can not be identified to protect the identities of his daughters, was suspended from the party's PEC following his arrest. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Motsebi Wa Monareng....
Political analyst, Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast, says that the formation of a possible minority government is not what the country needs, should the 7th administration fail to form a government of national unity or GNU. Breakfast made the comments amid extended negotiations on the GNU, formed after the ANC lost its majority at the 29 May polls. Sibahle Motha reports
There is a strong police presence in the vicinity of the Pietermaritzburg Magistrates Court as MK party members march to court ahead of the appearance of an IEC official today. The official is believed to be appearing in connection with matters related to his conduct on election day last month, May 29th. MK party members who are part of this protest also continue to claim that the election results were rigged. Our reporter Mlondi Hadebe earlier caught up with MK party leader in the Moses Mabhida region Reggie Ngcobo and asked him why is the MK party marching
The constitution of the seventh administration has encountered delays as the signatories of the Statement of Intent struggle to find each other. These consultations are guided by the State of Intent (SOI), which has legally bound the 10 political parties who signed it. Since his inauguration, all the Executive power has rested with President Cyril Ramaphosa. However, South Africans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the Cabinet and by extension, the Executive. The President still has a Constitutional mandate but to what extent does the State of Intent dictate how the President can exercise his Constitutional duties? Zoleka Qodashe reports...
Foreign trained doctors are accusing the Health Profession Council of South Africa (HPCSA) of failing them during the board examination. The South African Internationally Trained Health Professionals Association (Saithpa), says seventy percent of foreign-trained doctors who wrote board exams in October 2023 and February 2024 failed. Saithpa's legal desk chairperson Advocate Rene Govender, says something sinister is at play because the HPCSA, the custodians of the exams, refused students access to their scripts to review and verify alleged shortcomings. She now joins Sakina Kamwendo for more on this
The African National Congress has lashed out at some political parties for making outrageous demands for specific cabinet positions in the media. The party says it's only President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has the prerogative to appoint the executive. This statements come amid calls for calm, as many South Africans waiting for the announcement of the cabinet of the seventh democratic administration. Sibahle Motha reports
Impeached Western Cape Judge President, John Hlophe is the designated leader for the uMmkhonto weSizwe Party in Parliament. Hlophe has confirmed to SABC News that he will be leading the country's third largest party in the National Assembly. However, the 58 MK members who were scheduled to be sworn in, in the National Assembly's first sitting last Friday did not attend. This sitting saw the election of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker and the President. The 58 seats allocated to the MK party remain theirs. Hlophe's confirmation that he will lead the party in the National Legislature could signal the imminent swearing in of MK party members.
The eThekwini Municipal council has postponed the election of a new mayor after embattled former mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda was redeployed to the National Council of Provinces by the African National Congress after the 2024 general elections. Kaunda faced scriticism from opposition parties following his handling of the aftermath of the deadly 2022 floods, which left communities without water for prolonged periods of time and resulted in the closure of some of the metro's beaches after tests revealed high E.coli readings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Dries Liebenberg.
Patients diagnosed with mental health problems, particularly men, have been cautioned against excessive use of alcohol, as a form of escapism. With the month of June being observed as men's mental health awareness month, experts say those who turn to alcohol, display significant risk factors for suicidal behaviour.
Despite many avenues available for help, South African men continue to rank high amongst those who take their own lives. Clement Matroos filed this report by Omphemetse Balatseng
Labour Federation Cosatu says it remains deeply opposed to the neoliberal policies of the Democratic Alliance because of the history of opposing labour reforms to improve the lives of workers. Cosatu's General Secretary Solly Phetoe says if the DA is to be part of the government of national unity, then it must abandon its anti-worker and anti-transformation agenda.
To improve infrastructure, Johannesburg's bulk water entity, Rand Water, has kicked off its 37-day maintenance project in Gauteng, which is expected to affect many areas in and around the city. Rand Water spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo, says residents should not panic as taps will not run dry. Monique Lewis filed this report
Ten people have died and twenty-four others have been seriously injured in a collision between a truck and a taxi on the R42 road near Delmas, in Mpumalanga. Spokesperson for the provincial department of Community Safety, Moeti Mmusi says eight of the deceased were occupants in the taxi while two were occupants in the truck. He says the injured have been taken to nearby hospitals. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Michael Mdluli
As South Africans eagerly await President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement of the cabinet under the Government of National Unity, ten political parties have officially joined the broad-based system of government. For some analysis on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Chris Landsberg, Director of the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg[
IEC Commissioner Dr Nomsa Masuku has been granted R20 000 bail by the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court. Sixty-two-year-old Masuku was arrested on Friday by the Hawks for alleged fraud amounting to R1.2 million. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale.
Charlotte Van Der Weshuizen, the wife of a child killer and former top cop Marius van der Westhuizen says she does not believe that the country needs another child murderer out in the public. This comes as her former husband and father to her kids, Marius is set to be released on parole at the end of July. The former cop was granted parole after his third appearance before the parole board at the Malmasbury Correctional Center on Tuesday. He murdered his children who were aged 16, five and 21 months at their home in 2006 to punish his wife, Charlotte. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Charlotte Van Der Weshuizen and her lawyer, Gerhard Niekerk.
The former Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane's matter is back in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria in which she seeks her gratuity purported to amount to millions of rend. Our reporter, Zoleka Qodashe has the details...
As Vodacom's forensic liaison supervisor Pinky Vythilingam is expected to go over cellphone tower locations, the defence in the Senzo Meyiwa trial have raised concern that some areas are not depicted on the map. The trial has been delayed this morning in order to allow for the defence to consult with the accused. Vythilingam is on the stand at the high court in Pretoria to unpack more evidence pertaining to cellphone data and towers. Five men are on trial for the murder of Meyiwa who was shot and killed in 2014 while at Vosloorus on Gauteng's East Rand. Pearl Magubane reports
Data released by Statistics South Africa shows that the price of goods have remained steady over the past two months, as the consumer price index held at 5,2-percent in May, unchanged from April 2024. The data indicates that after five consecutive months of decline, prices for food non-alcohol beverages remained unchanged at 4,7-perdent in May from April. However higher rates were recorded for transport, alcoholic beverages and tobacco, while softer prices were recorded for miscellaneous goods and services, communication, clothing and footwear, as well as restaurants and hotels. SABC Senior Reporter -- Naledi Ngcobo -- filed the following report...
A Researcher and Lecturer at Wits University, Dr Gilad Isaacs says the 2.5 percent salary increase for MPs in the seventh Parliament, will not have much impact on the public purse. Earlier this year President Cyril Ramaphosa approved the salary increase for MPs, members of the provincial legislatures and Premiers. New MPs will be earning about R1.27 million annually or hundred thousand a month. Dr Isaacs says while these increases may be relatively high compared to ordinary workers -- they are not above inflation. Abongwe Kobokana reports...
African National Congress Youth League President, Collen Malatji says the Democratic Alliance cannot dictate to the ANC which parties can join the proposed Government of National Unity moving forward. Malatji addressed the media a short while ago where he expressed the Youth League's support for the GNU but warning that the ANC cannot compromise on its adopted policies such as affirmative action and funding for tertiary education. Malatji explains...
The #PayTheGrants Campaign has questioned why Social Distress Grants beneficiaries are required to verify their identification through SASSA's newly-introduced biometric identification process. The organisation says hundred s of recipients of the SRD grant have complained that they cannot access their grant because of a new identity verification process newly introduced to fight fraud. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the campign's Elizabeth Raiters.
A new UN investigative report has concluded that both Israeli authorities and Palestinian armed groups have committed war crimes and crimes against humanity since and in the aftermath of Hamas' October 7th last year. The findings of the U.N. Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory were presented to the Human Rights Council in Geneva earlier Wednesday by its Chair – South African jurist, Dr Navi Pillay. The Commission has argued that it was imperative that all those, who committed crimes be held accountable and that the only way to stop the recurring cycles of violence, including aggression and retribution by both sides, was to ensure strict adherence to international law. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports...
The Democratic Alliance has suspended newly-sworn-in Member of Parliament, Renaldo Gouws, with immediate effect. The party says it has established that the video, in which Gouws uses execrable language, is genuine and not a fake as initially suspected. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Richard Newton, DA Director of Communications.
The IFP has won the highly contested by-elections in 3 of 6 wards in the Umzumbe Municipality ,near Port Shepstone, on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. After the by-elections, the previously ANC controlled municipality is now a hung council, with the ANC and IFP both holding 17 seats. In by-elections in other KwaZulu-Natal municipalities, the IFP took a ward from AbantoBathu Congress in the Umvoti municipality, and it took a ward from the ANC at Mthonjaneni. In Newcastle the DA won a ward from the ANC, and in Umzimkhulu the ANC retained its ward. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News specialist researcher, Maswele Ralebona
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has raised concerns over illegal miners who have invaded the largest nature reserve in the province, the Songimvelo Nature Reserve that is located in Tjakastad in the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. These illegal miners have tampered with the fence at the park and are digging for gold. This is a fence that was recently installed by the provincial government after residents in the area raised concerns of wild animals who were going out of the reserve to nearby communities. Motsebi wa Monareng filed this report.
Azapo and the PAC have called on South Africans never to forget where they come from. The two leftist parties commemorated the June 16 Soweto Uprisings at the Avalon Cemetery in Soweto on Saturday. This is where the remains of the mastermind behind the student protests of that fateful day Tsietsi Mashinini and Khotso Seatlholo as well as the first victims of the uprisings Hastings Ndlovu and Hector Pieterson are buried. Both parties decried the recently constituted Government of National Unity as selling out the previously oppressed people of this country. Ntebo Mokobo has more .....
As the country enjoys the public holiday commemorating Youth Day, young people in the Western Cape have expressed their expectations from the newly formed Government of National Unity (GNU) that includes the ANC, DA, IFP and the PA. No party obtained an outright majority in the recent general election. These youths have raised unemployment, the high crime rate, education and poor infrastructure as some of the issues the new government should prioritise. Andile Mbanjwa reports...
Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders has criticised the World Bank's 2023 Container Port Performance Index, saying it's inaccurate and its findings could harm the reputation of South Africa's container terminals. The Container Port Performance Index, looked at four hundred and five ports globally, where South Africa's ports rank dismally overall, and the Port of Cape Town ranked the worst in the world. For more on this we are joined on the line by Jacob van Rensburg, Head of Research and Development at the Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF)
Eastern Cape police are investigating a murder of a two-year-old boy in Xholorha outside Stutterheim. It's alleged that the boy was hanged by his mother's boyfriend and died. This happened after a quarrel between the couple. The 35 year old boyfriend later left with the child, and was later found drinking at a tavern. He was taken to the police station where he allegedly confessed to hanging the child, to spite the mother. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Abongile Janjies
The leader of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) and one of the country's longest-serving members of parliament, Kenneth Meshoe says his party has declined to be part of the National Government of Unity. He was speaking earlier to SABC political reporter Natasha Phiri,
SA's political parties are continuing Government of National Unity discussions as the first sitting of the National Assembly post the National and Provincial Elections approaches. Parliament is expected to elect both the speakers of parliament tomorrow and nominate a president elect while speakers of and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will be elected on Saturday. Meanwhile, the ANC has yet to make available details of the proposed Government of National Unity. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Political analyst and chief research specialist in Democracy and Citizenship at the Human Science Research Council and a Research Fellow at the Centre for African Studies at the University of the Free State, Prof Joleen Steyn Kotze
The DA's, Alan Winde has been elected as the Premier of the Western Cape for a second term. He received 26 votes during the election for the position in the first sitting of the provincial legislature. The ANC’s Muhammad Khalid Sayed, who was also contesting for the position received 14 votes. Two of the ballots were spoilt. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter Corbin August.
The ANC is expected to hold a special NEC meeting at the Cape Sun Hotel in Cape Town this afternoon. This comes as the clock continues to tick forward to the much anticipated first sitting of the National Assembly post the National and Provincial Elections. Parliament is expected to elect both the speakers of parliament tomorrow and nominate a president elect while speakers of and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will be elected on Saturday. Meanwhile, the ANC has yet to make available details of the proposed Government of National Unity. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporters Samkele Maseko and Ayanda Mhlongo
The Electoral Court has dismissed the urgent application launched by Umkhonto Wesizwe party founder, Jabulani Khumalo to be reinstated as leader of the party. Khumalo last week launched an urgent application before the specialist court. Khumalo was expelled from the party and removed as its leader earlier this year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
One person has died of the Mpox disease in South Africa. Health minister Joe Phaahla says five cases were reported in the country, three in Kwazulu-Natal and two cases in Gauteng. Phaahla briefed the media on the outbreak of the disease earlier
The Alliance Political Council, comprising of the top six officials of the African National Congress, the South African Communist Party and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) are expected to meet at 2pm today in order to consolidate discussions around the possible formation of a Government of National Unity. This comes less than 72 hours before the first sitting of the National Assembly on Friday which is aimed at nominating a president elect, electing a speaker of parliament and his or her deputy. SACP's General Secretary Solly Mapaila says the ANC should not complicate matters but including the DA into the mix. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior SABC Politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo.
A 35-year-old man is expected to appear in the Pretoria North Magistrate's Court today for allegedly murdering four people, including two children in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria. Six people were shot in the area last week. They included two girls, aged four and seven whose bodies were burnt when the shack in which they had been sleeping was burnt. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni
The community of Seaview near Wild Coast Sun at Mbizana in the Eastern Cape, is still in shock after five members of the Matiwane family were kidnapped. It is alleged that heavily armed alleged kidnappers abducted the family at gun point and drove away with them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi
Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera says he's sparing no resources to find a missing aircraft that was carrying his Vice President Dr Saulos Chilima and nine others. Chilima left from Lilongwe to Mzuzu yesterday morning to attend the funeral of the country's former attorney general and Justice Minister Ralph Kasambara. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to George Mhango, Channel Africa correspondent in Malawi
Political expert from the University of South Africa, Professor Dirk Kotze says members of Umkhonto Wesizwe party will still have an opportunity to be sworn in after the first sittings of the National Assembly and the NCOP. This comes after the MK Party signaled its intention to boycott the first sittings expected to take place on Friday and Saturday, which will be presided over by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. The National Assembly sitting is scheduled to take place on Friday morning, while the NCOP is expected to take place on Saturday. The MK party is currently the third largest political party which garnered 58 seats in the Assembly. Kotze says nothing disqualifies the MK members from taking their seats later. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Politics Editor, Mzwandile Mbeje and SABC Politics reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
Vodacom official Pinky Vythilingam is expected back on the witness stand at the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial today. Meyiwa was shot and killed in October 2014 while at parental home of his then girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, on Gauteng's East Rand. Five men are on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Vythilingam's testimony was halted last week to give her time to recover as she was not feeling well. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane...
Eastern Cape Safety MEC, Xolile Nqatha, is expected to visit the family of six members who were shot and killed last week in Tsolo. Nqatha together with the police are expected to update the family on the progress made to arrest the suspects. Police say it's alleged a 43 year- old male was killed in his grandfather's homestead in Mpoza location. In the second incident also in the same location, two males were found with bullet wounds. Not far from the scene, three more people between the ages 62 and 67 years- old were also shot. Police say all the victims were related. The motive behind the shootings is unknown. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to David Bruce, a consultant on policing and public security with the Institute for Security Studies
The trial of Husband and wife, Sibusiso and Lerato Mahlangu accused of killing Lerato's former boyfriend and father of her child, Sibusiso Sithebe, has resumed in the high court in Pretoria. Sibusiso & Lerato Mahlangu allegedly invited the father of Lerato's child, Sibusiso Sithebe, to the couple's home where they allegedly killed him & set his remains on fire in order to claim R500 000 in life insurance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni
Johannesburg residents have raised concerns about the looming re-introduction of load reduction by City Power. They say this will mess up their lives. The business community says this will have a negative effect on their businesses. Others are even asking questions as to why the load reduction is only being brought back after the elections. City Power says power supply costs have reached critical levels and load reduction is the only option. Calvin Dludla reports...
There are only six days left for the 7th Parliament to be formed. Before a Government of National Unity or a coalition is formed, parliament must first be constituted within 14 days of the declaration of the election results. The election of the Speaker, Deputy and the President are critical to the formation of the National Assembly, while the election of the President is critical to ensure the formation of a government. A quorum of 134 out of the 400 members of the National Assembly is required to elect the Speaker of parliament, Deputy or President. The election of these officials is done through a secret ballot only, if there are other candidates contesting the positions. A president-elect would cease to be a member of the Assembly once elected by the House. For a look at what where we are according to the timeline traditionally followed after the declaration of the election results, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News, Mercedes Besent...
Opposition parties have responded with mixed reactions to President Cyril Ramaphosa suggestion for a government of national unity, which Ramphosa says will reflect the will of people and help move the country forward. He was speaking at the end of the governing party's Special NEC meeting in Boksburg east of Johannesburg last night. The meeting was called to discuss the model of a government that the ANC would prefer after failing to secure the required majority votes to constitute government alone. The DA's Second Deputy Federal Chairperson, Solly Malatsi...
The SANDF, SAPS and an Air Mercy Services helicopter have assisted Gift of the Givers to distribute necessities to families in the Little Karoo who have been cut off due to flooding. Heavy rains over the past few days have resulted in various road closures, due to floods and rockfalls. The rain has however also been welcomed by farmers, following a seven year drought. Sagree Chetty reports...
The two siblings from Soshanguve north of Pretoria, who were shot and killed inside their shack on Sunday (2 June), have been laid to rest. Tiyinko and Pfumo Mashaba, aged 4 and 7, were shot multiple times by an assailant who allegedly stormed their home at Changing Spot Informal Settlement while they were sleeping, before setting it alight. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the perpetrator was after the girls' father, who was not at home during the incident. Speakers at the funeral called for justice to prevail. Phumzile Mlangeni reports…
A group of former employees of the South African Post Office (Sapo) are staging a picket outside of the entity's headquarters in Pretoria. It has been reported that the Post Office has been deducting pension fund contributions from workers' salaries, but failed to pay into employees' retirement fund for three years. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Nothando Magudulela
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC is seeking a government of national unity, which would reflect the will of people and help move the country forward. He was speaking at the end of the governing party's Special NEC meeting in Boksburg east of Johannesburg last night. The meeting was called to discuss the model of a government that the ANC would prefer after failing to secure the required majority votes to constitute government alone. Ntebo Mokobo has more...
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is expected to hand over the list of designated MPs to the Secretary to Parliament, who will then look at how many women are on the list and for which parties amongst other issues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC researcher, Maswele Ralebone
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa has stepped aside from his responsibilities as an ANC NEC member and head of deployees in KwaZulu-Natal. This follows recommendations against Kodwa, in the State Capture Commission report, over bribes amounting to one-point-six million rand. This as the ANC's national executive committee is holding a special meeting today at the Birchwood Hotel to discuss coalition options following the national elections where the party failed to secure a majority. The ANC Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula was addressing reporters outside the meeting venue earlier...
Action-SA leader, Herman Masheba says the recent election results are concerning as they reflect what he terms as 'politics of identity'. Mashaba received 1.2 percent of the national votes with just under 200-thousand votes which results in four seats in Parliament. Mashaba briefed the media a short while ago where he also confirmed that he will not be part of the party's members of parliament. Mashaba has also expressed shock at reports that the DA has been in talks with the ANC when it comes to a coalition government...
The African National Congress says it will be going into its NEC meeting tomorrow with three possible coalition government options post the national and provincial elections. Party national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri has been addresing the media from Luthuli House where she says various engagements have been held with different political parties. She also adds that the ANC is looking at any option that will move the country forward...
Convicted murderer and rapist, Thabo Bester has broken his silence and given an emotional address to the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein. Bester, appearing alongside his co-accused alleges that he has not been treated fairly by the courts nor by the correctional services department. Bester went so far as alleging that there is a political back-hand involved in his case adding that his co-accused are innocent. Bester's co-accused face charges of assisting in his escape and defeating the ends of justice, among others. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
The Soshanguve community in the North of Pretoria, is still reeling from shock after two girls aged four and seven were killed over the weekend, while six other patrons were allegedly shot at a shabeen in the Changing Spot Informal Settlement, in the same area. Gauteng Police spokesperson, Mavela Masondo says investigations will continue to trace the suspects. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a spokesperson for the family of the slain children, Klaas Mashaba.
South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) has decreased by 0,1% in the first quarter of 2024. The manufacturing industry decreased by 1,4 percent in the first quarter of 2024, contributing -0,2 of a percentage point to the negative GDP growth. Chief Director of National Accounts at Statistics South Africa, Bokang Vumbukani Lepolesa elaborates...
The the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has resumed at the High Court in Pretoria, with forensic supervisor at Vodacom, Pinky Vythilingam back on the stand. Vythilingam has been giving evidence which pertains to cell phone records of the accused and others that have not been called to testify. Five men are on trial for the gunning down of the Bafana Bafana captain in October 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane
Deputy Minister of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, John Jeffery has this morning received the Gender-Based Violence report from the Public Protector, advocate Kholeka Gcaleka at the Belville Magistrate's Court in Cape Town. The investigation emanates from the administrative challenges faced by the public, particularly women and children, in the South African criminal justice system identified by the Public Protector. Gcaleka says her office has uncovered concerning trends, calling for urgent intervention by the department of Justice. She addressed the media earlier.
Residents of Othongathi in KwaZulu-Natal have expressed shock at the extensive damage left by a tornado which ripped through the area yesterday. This follows a level 4 warning for the province which was issued by the South African Weather Services on Monday. Extreme weather conditions have hit various parts of the country leading to loss of life in the Eastern Cape and severe infrastructural damage. At least seven people have been killed in KZN. One local residents explains the commotion which took place when the reported tornado struck
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News has launched a television programme dedicated to marking this important milestone. On this week's edition of the Democracy 30 Project, Update@Noon zooms in on Section 26 of the South African Constitution, which underscores the right to adequate housing. Today we bring you the story of a landmark Constitutional Court victory that had a significant impact on the government's housing policy. But what material outcomes did it provide for the community in whose name it was won? SABC News reporter, Hazel Friedman filed this report....
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula says that the party will not concede to demands by the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party that the only condition it is willing to consider during coalition talks is that President Cyril Ramaphosa resigns. Mbalula briefed the media at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg yesterday (Sunday 2 June) after the ANC's losses in the 29 May polls. Sibahle Motha reports
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appealed to political parties to recognise that the results of the 2024 national and provincial elections reflect the will of the people. Ramaphosa was speaking at a ceremony to announce the final results at the National Results Operations Centre in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. While acknowledging the glitches and difficulties experienced on the two-year journey to this point, the IEC has expressed satisfaction with the work it has performed in administering 19 regional, provincial and national polls, using the services of over 200-thousand staff across 23-thousand-200 voting stations. Busi Chimombe compiled this report...
Coalition discussions among political parties are expected to kick start this week, following the announcement of the final election results yesterday. ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has indicated that the party will not concede to demands by the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party that the only condition it is willing to consider during coalition talks is that President Cyril Ramaphosa resigns. Parties have 14 days before the first sitting of the National Assembly needs to take place. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Politics Editor Mzwandile Mbeje
Lawyers for the founder of the MK party, Jabulani Khumalo have argued that the daughter of former President, Jacob Zuma had no authority to remove Khumalo as the leader of the party. The parties are before the Electoral Court in Khumalo's urgent application seeking his immediate reinstatement as MK party President. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
The Eastern Cape government has deployed emergency disaster teams throughout the province to help those affected by the floods. The Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City metros are the worst affected. The death toll linked to the floods stands at seven. For the latest update, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ntombozuko Balintulo.
The Independent Electoral Commission has finished counting the votes, and the verification process is currently underway following what many have called a historic election. As stipulated by the Electoral Act, the Commission has a 7-day window to declare the results. Parties interested, including the public, independent candidates, and political parties, have until 9 PM on May 31, 2024, to raise any objections regarding the voting or counting process with the Commission. To continue talking more about this year's national and provincial elections, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Terry Tselane, Institute of Election Management Services in Africa, and Political Analyst, Dr Thapelo Tselapedi
The Electoral Commission is making every effort to finalize the capture and audit of the 2024 National and Provincial election results and is on track to complete this process . The IEC reports that counting at all voting stations is finished, and all results have been received at their local offices. They are now in the process of entering these results into their system for tallying and seat allocation. To dissect and give perspective on the latest Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Dr. Joleen Steyn Kotze And Professor Sethulego Matebesi
SABC provides you with up-to-date news, analysis, forecasts, and predictions directly from the Results Operation Centre on the second day of vote counting. Stay tuned to SABC TV and radio for special election coverage. to delve further into this year's national and provincial elections. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Political Editor Mzwandile Mbeje, SABC News International Editor Sophie Mokoena and SABC News Research Editor Dr Ronesh Dhawraj
Leaders of different political parties are eagerly awaiting the provincial and national election results while the vote counting proceeds. Representatives from various parties are gathered at the IEC Results Operations Centre in Midrand, closely monitoring the incoming results from all over the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Various leaders in Midrand IEC Center.
As vote counting progresses and results begin to come in, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) are once again involved in the South African elections. Since forming a partnership in 1999, the SABC and CSIR have consistently delivered accurate and timely election results and predictions to television, radio, and digital audiences after each voting day. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the CSIR’s Dr Ndumiso Cingo and SABC News Specialist Researcher, Maswele Ralebona
As the 2024 election results roll in and the final outcomes are anticipated in a few days, a new administration is poised to take office. However, with various competing interests and both overt and covert influences at play, the real question is who will truly wield power over the next five years and which political parties will form coalitions to establish the government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ongama Mtimka, senior researcher, political analyst, and lecturer at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, and political analyst Sandile Swana.
South Africa holds its national and provincial elections the most hotly contested since apartheid ended three decades ago, with a record 27.7 million people having registered to cast their ballots. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Executive Chairman of the Institute of Elections Management Services in Africa, Terry Tselane, and political analyst, Professor Susan Booysen, about additional resources that have been availed by the IEC to administer elections.
Economists predict an increase in volatility and a sell-off in the rand and bonds as markets await details of a potential coalition government post the ongoing elections. This comes as millions cast their votes throughout the country today. Although early to call, analysts predict the ANC will lose its majority and possibly form a coalition government with other political parties that are more aligned to the party's existing economic policies. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Fixed Income, Prowess Investment Managers, Qhivi Tiva
The independent election commission reports Voting in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections started smoothly with 93% of stations opening on time, with some delayed due to late delivery of materials, and delayed escorts by security services or protests by certain community members. To dissect and give analysis on the May 29 elections, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analysts Dr Dane Mckinley and Dr Thapelo Tselapedi
The Electoral Commission says that it has experienced an insignificant number of challenges on the first day of special voting across the country. The Commission briefed the media at the National Results Centre in Midrand on Monday as to the special voting process. The IEC says it was able to open the majority of voting stations in the Eastern Cape in the face of protests which had nothing to do with elections. It says of the 435 voting stations that experienced problems on Monday morning only 107 remained closed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst and Author, Professor Susan Booysen.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa hopes to maintain its track record of running free and fair elections. International observers are adamant that this will be the case. They say there is a lot to learn from South Africa. Former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan is leading the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy for Africa to observe elections in South Africa. The former statesman has vast experience in observing elections as he has led many missions since he left office.
Special voting is running smoothly today in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. This after more than 100 voting stations were not opened yesterday due to a taxi protest that shutdown the town. Local authorities in and around Mthatha have also welcomed the deployment of the army following disruptions to entry points yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC manager in the Eastern Cape, Siyabonga Maki.
More than 10 people have been killed in a collision between a mini-bus taxi and a truck on the Polokwane-Dendron road in Limpopo. It's been reported that the mini-bus taxi was transporting civil servants to work. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Limpopo, Pimani Baloyi
The casting of special votes at various voting stations in the Zululand District north of KwaZulu-Natal has begun without any glitches. Over 20 000 people have registered for special votes in this district. The IEC says those who will be voting today and tomorrow in this district consist of public servants, the elderly and the disabled. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter in Ulundi in KwaZulu-Natal, Nonjabulo Makamu.
Some voting stations in KwaZulu-Natal experienced delays in opening due to community protests, particularly in areas such as the Ugu Municipality and other districts. KZN Electoral Officer Ntombifuthi Masinga addressing the media says they are investigating reports of some voters receiving two ballots instead of three. Masinga was giving an update on the first day of special voting in KwaZulu-Natal. KZN Electoral Officer, Ntombifuthi Masinga...
The Electoral Commission has scheduled May 27 and May 28 for special voting, with 1.6 million individuals approved to vote starting today. In Kimberley, three centenarians are casting their ballots, including a 102-year-old elderly person born in 1922. Our reporter. Thabiso Radebe, spoke with the eldest voter and also visited senior citizens in Jan Kempdorp to observe more elderly citizens taking part in in the special voting. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Thabiso Radebe.
Roads coming into and from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape remain closed as local residents loot trucks stranded on the N2 and the R61 roads due to protest action by the local taxi industry. Its alleged protesting taxi operators have blockaded numerous other routes demanding the return of their firearms that were confiscated by the police last week. At least three taxi operators were killed last week with several seriously injured and admitted to the local hospital. For a better understanding to these latest developments, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Findiswa Mhlekude.
With less than a week remaining before South Africans go to the polls, SAfm provides comprehensive election coverage from the results operations centre in Midrand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Pieter de Necker, CEO of Freedom Front Plus and GOOD's national chairperson, and Gauteng Premier Candidate, Mathew Cook about their readiness for the upcoming elections.
Defend our Democracy has called on members of the public to use social media and share their voting day experiences during election days starting next week Monday with special votes.The Elections observe group says it has also set up an elections App to capturer observe reports on May 29. This comes as the country draws closer to what is described as the most anticipated elections since 1994. Speaking during a media briefing earlier, the advocacy group says they have observers set up in all nine provinces. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nomasonto Magwaza from Defend our Democracy.
Long time DA member and leader, James Selfe has died at the age of 68 after a protracted battle with cancer. Selfe was elected to South Africa's first democratic parliament in 1994 and served in the national assembly until he retired in 2021. He served in the Portfolio Committee of Justice and Correctional Services and was Chair of the DA's Federal Council for almost 20 years until he resigned from it in 2019. In 2021 Selfe testified at the State Capture Commission about corruption in Correctional Services specifically with regards to Bosasa in his capacity as DA's Shadow Minister for Correctional Services since 2009. It was in that same year he retired from parliament as a result of ill health. SABC News reporter, Busi Chimombe filed this report.
The latest data released by Statistics South Africa shows inflation slowed slightly in April. Stats SA says the main drivers behind the headline inflation in April were housing and utilities, miscellaneous goods and services, food and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as transport. This, as salaries data tracked in BankservAfrica's Take-home Pay Index, ticked lower in April 2024. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Independent Economist, Elize Kruger.
A community march against violent crimes and illegal possession of guns and ammunition is currently underway in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria. The march is led by the ANC Youth League in Gauteng but is also supported by religious leaders, the taxi industry and members of the community. The march comes as two more suspects have been arrested for the murder of 5-year-old Ditebogo Phalane. For more on this we are now joined on the line by our reporter on this story, Patricia Visagie...
In an effort to champion voter education ahead of next week's national general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we will delve deeper into the processes voters need to be know in the build up to election day. Today's focus is on the IEC's state of readiness as we edge closer to election day and for more on that, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to IEC General Manager for Civic Education and Research, Moagisi Sibanda.
Cellphone data analyst Gideon Gouws is back on the stand today, focusing on evidence relating to the number that allegedly belongs to accused number Bongani Ntanzi in the Senzo Meyiwa trial. Ntanzi and 4 others are on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for the murder of Meyiwa who was shot and killed in 2014. Yesterday, Gouws told the court that a signal from a phone alleged to belong to accused number 2 in the Meyiwa trial - was picked up from a cellphone tower near Villieria police station in Pretoria. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News has launched Democracy 30, a programme dedicated to marking this historic milestone. As with any new democracy, South Africa's education system has faced several challenges in the last 30 years. The Eastern Cape is one of the provinces that have borne the brunt of the country's inability to provide equal education for all learners, particularly those in rural areas. Apart from teaching and learning obstacles, some under-resourced schools in that province continue to battle the triple threat of overcrowding in classrooms, poor infrastructure and a persistent lack of ablution facilities. SABC reporter, Sidima Mfeku filed this report…
Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu is today attending a child malnutrition outreach program at OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape. This follows the widespread prevalence of malnutrition among children and coupled with complaints from the public on the same issue in the Eastern Cape. Zulu is also expected to hold community engagement over the closure of Post Offices and SASSA Paypoints, number of pensioners from rural areas complained about the closure of these services to access their grant as they have to travel long distances. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Fundisswa Mhlekude in the Eastern Cape,
Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has advocated for the appointment of more judges as South Africa's courts are struggling to clear persistent case backlogs. Maya is being interviewed by the Judicial Service Commission(JSC) for the position of Chief Justice after President Cyril Ramaphosa nominated her earlier this year. She is the only candidate being interviewed for the position. The Deputy Chief Justice has occupied her current role for almost two years after her appointment in 2022. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has advocated for the appointment of more judges as South Africa's courts are struggling to clear persistent case backlogs. Maya is being interviewed by the Judicial Service Commission(JSC) for the position of Chief Justice after President Cyril Ramaphosa nominated her earlier this year. She is the only candidate being interviewed for the position. The Deputy Chief Justice has occupied her current role for almost two years after her appointment in 2022...
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is seeking arrest warrants for Hamas and Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. Prosecutor Karim Khan said in a statement that he was filing applications for warrants of arrest before the Pre-trial chamber of the Court for Hamas' top leader Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif – a commander of the group's armed wing - and the group's Qatar-based political leader, Ismail Haniyeh. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The City of Johannesburg's waste management company PIKITUP says only two of its 12 depots are operational at the moment. This as waste continues to pile up within the City CBD due to non-collection. Casual workers whose contracts with the company are about to expire have been protesting outside the PIKITUP depots since Monday last week to demand permanent jobs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to PIKITUP spokesperson, Anthony Selepe
Electricity Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says government is considering its next legal steps, follows a court ruling mandating Eskom to guarantee continuous power supply to various public institutions, including police stations, public health facilities, and schools. Dr Ramokgopa earlier gave an energy action plan update with at Eskom headquarters. He say there is no load shedding forecast for the coming 7 days. The country is on day 54 without the implementation of load shedding. Here is Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister in The Presidency responsible for Electricity speaking earlier.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed after his helicopter crashed in poor weather in mountains near the Azerbaijan border. The charred wreckage of the helicopter which crashed on Sunday carrying Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and six other passengers and crew was found early on Monday after an overnight search in blizzard conditions. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei announced five days of public mourning and confirmed First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber as interim head of the country's executive branch. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
The Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution's executive secretary, Lawson Naidoo has welcomed the Constitutional Court ruling which found that former President and leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, Jacob Zuma is not eligible to stand for elections as a member of parliament. This as Zuma is the first candidate on the MK party list of members to go to the National Assembly after the upcoming elections. The matter was sent to the Electoral Court which concluded that Zuma's 15-month sentence for contempt couldn't be appealed and, thus, didn't meet the criteria of a "sentence" under Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution.
Seven people including an 8-year-old child have been shot dead at Nxanxashe Village in Willowvale in the Eastern Cape. Police received information of multiple shootings in the Nxanxashe location in the early hours of yesterday morning. Six occupants including the child were shot in a vehicle, while another person was found dead about a kilometre away in another vehicle. Police say the motive of the murder is not known at this stage... For more on this we are joined on the line by Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude.
The Constitutional Court has found that the Electoral Commission (IEC) is empowered to determine qualification for membership of the National Assembly before the May polls. The legal counsel for the MK Party and former President, Jacob Zuma, had argued that the IEC acted outside its jurisdiction when it upheld an objection against Zuma in terms of Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution, and that only the National Assembly had this power. However, the apex court found that the Electoral Act empowers the Commission to determine eligibility of candidates to stand for public office. The court overturned the order of the Electoral Court that dismissed the objection against the former President. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
The Constitutional Court has found that the Electoral Commission (IEC) is empowered to determine qualification for membership of the National Assembly before the May polls. The legal counsel for the MK Party and former President, Jacob Zuma, had argued that the IEC acted outside its jurisdiction when it upheld an objection against Zuma in terms of Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution, and that only the National Assembly had this power. However, the apex court found that the Electoral Act empowers the Commission to determine eligibility of candidates to stand for public office. The court overturned the order of the Electoral Court that dismissed the objection against the former President. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to legal expert, Benedict Phiri.
The Constitutional Court has found that former President and leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, Jacob Zuma is not eligible to stand for elections as a member of parliament. This as Zuma is the first candidate on the MK party list of members to go to the National Assembly after the upcoming elections. The matter was sent to the Electoral Court which concluded that Zuma's 15-month sentence for contempt couldn't be appealed and, thus, didn't meet the criteria of a "sentence" under Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution. This section disqualifies any person who is convicted of an offence and sentenced to more than 12 months imprisonment without the option of a fine from serving in Parliament. The apex court however says there is no difference between a conviction of a criminal offence and civil conviction for contempt of court. Justice Leona Theron explains...
South African deputy High Commissioner in London, Dineo Mathlako, says the South African mission in London is ready to process the nearly 24 thousand-500 voters who have registered to vote in London. The mission is situated at Trafalgar Square, the historic site where activists who were opposed to Apartheid, used to converge when they were protesting against the old regime. SABC correspondent in London, John Bevir reports
The George Municipality will cease their search and rescue operations during the course of the day, at the site where a building collapsed over a week ago. The disaster claimed the lives of 33 workers. Municipality officials say police have officially taken over the investigation into the cause of the collapse. Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised the families of the victims that they will get the answers they seek into what caused the tragedy and death of their loved ones. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty.
Israel has accused South Africa of exploiting the Genocide Convention. Israel's deputy attorney general for international law Gilad Noam says Israel has complied with the International Court of Justice's measure that were imposed on Israel in February and March. Israel is presenting its oral argument at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Noam accused South Africa of distorting the facts of the war in Gaza. Yesterday South Africa demanded the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to impose a unilateral ceasefire order on Israel.
The George Municipality will cease their search and rescue operations during the course of the day, at the site where a building collapsed over a week ago. The disaster claimed the lives of 33 workers. Municipality officials say police have officially taken over the investigation into the cause of the collapse. Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised the families of the victims that they will get the answers they seek into what caused the tragedy and death of their loved ones. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Western Cape Disaster Management, Colin Deiner
The Special Investigating Unit has raided all five of the country's refugee centres as part of a probe into alleged corruption. Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi says a whistle-blower tipped off his Department to unlawful activities occurring at the centre, where officials are allegedly being bribed to issue fraudulent documents to unregistered foreign nationals. Home affairs officials' electronic devices, have been confiscated. Dr Aaron Motsoaledi was present at the Desmond Tutu Refugee Centre in Marabastad in Pretoria earlier, where he addressed reporters...
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni says more arrests are expected after police apprehended two suspects who allegedly linked to the murder of 5-year-old Ditebogo Junior Phalane, who was shot and killed in Soshanguve during the hijacking of his father's vehicle last week. Gauteng Police officials held a media briefing a short while ago in Eldorado Park. Police nabbed the suspects at different locations in the community. The two suspects are believed to be South Africans in their late thirties. This is what Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni had to say.
Retail sales increased by 2.3% in March from a revised 0.7% year-on-year contraction recorded in February 2024. The latest increase follows two consecutive months of decline in retail activity. According to Stats SA, four of the seven retail groups registered a rise in sales. The biggest contributors were in general dealers followed by household furniture as well as food and beverages. SABC News reporter, Nosipho Radebe has the story
The outcomes of this year's elections will not only determine governance, it will also shape the country's economic discourse. This is what came out of the virtual Equilibrium Quarterly Bulletin by Momentum. Momentum says these elections will be determined by political players willingness and ability to take difficult decisions needed to enable a higher level of growth. Nothando Magudulela reports.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in George in the Western Cape, where he is meeting with officials and affected families in the building collapse disaster. This, as the Western Cape Head of Disaster Management, Colin Deiner, says they might hand over the site of the collapsed building to the police by tomorrow. Site crews with sniffer dogs have begun excavating the basement of the four-storey building and hope to recover more bodies. The death toll stands at 33. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter in George, Sagree Chetty
Experts say that since 2012, police resources dwindled significantly and crime levels have soared. This was the sentiment at a crime webinar hosted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS). The webinar was to discuss what qualities the incoming police minister should have to effectively tackle the growing problem of crime. SABC News reporter, Zalene Merrington reports.
Parliament has dismissed allegations by Trade union NEHAWU that there are attempts to suspend the Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, before the end of the 6th Parliament. However, it says the complaint over George's salary, brought by the DA, will be deferred to the 7th Parliament as SABC reporter, Mercedes Besent explains.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he hopes Israel will heed the injunction of the International Court of Justice, as South Africa asks the court to instruct Israel to stop its offensive Palestinian city of Rafah. Pretoria has filed an urgent request before the world court, in an effort to force Israel to immediately withdraw and cease its military offensive in the Gaza strip. President Ramaphosa says the bombardment of Rafah poses a risk to the Palestinians in Gaza who desperately need humanitarian aid and basic services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent, Alex Cadier.
The Free State Department of Education has called on all stakeholders to work together to stop violence in schools. This follows the death of a 10-year-old learner, who was allegedly stabbed by another learner. The department says violence in schools is not just a school or a government problem, but a societal issue. Konelo Lekhafola reports...
President Cyril Ramaphosa is tomorrow expected to visit the site of a building which collapsed in George in the Western Cape more than a week ago. The death toll stands at 33, including seven South Africans. Twelve workers are still in hospital and 19 others remain unaccounted for. The Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, says various ministers and deputy ministers that have visited the site are working closely with the Disaster Joint Operations Centre, the provincial government and the Garden Route District Municipality. Magwenya says the President has expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and support for the survivors. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty...
Five suspects arrested in the killing of rapper Kiernan "AKA" Forbes and his friend Tebello "Tibs" Motsaone have been denied bail in the Durban Magistrate's Court. The accused are appearing the Durban Magistrate's Court. Forbes and Motsoane were killed outside a popular restaurant in Durban in February last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to sign the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill into law during a ceremony in Pretoria this afternoon (Wednesday 15 May). The Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament last year. One of the main aims of the Bill is to provide universal health care to all South African citizens, as SABC reporter, Mercedes Besent reports
In an effort to drive voter education ahead of the 2024 general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to be know in the build up to election day. So join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday, until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after 29 May 2024. Today's focus is on the IEC's state of readiness as we edge closer to election day. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC General Manager, Moagisi Sibanda.
The Democratic Alliance has announced that it intends to challenge the NHI bill all the way to the Constitutional Court. The Presidency has announced that President Cyril Ramaphosa will Wednesday, 15 May 2024, publicly sign into law the National Health Insurance Bill. DA Leader John Steenhusien says NHI bill poses a grave threat to both public and private healthcare systems, burdening citizens with unbearable taxes.
The George Municipality says six of the 32 people who died when a partially built building collapsed last week, have been identified. This as discrepancies in building regulations have come under the spotlight in light of the collapsed building disaster. On a site visit to the area, Minister of public works and infrastructure, Sihle Zikazala, described it as the biggest built environment disaster in South Africa's history. According to the municipality, 20 workers are still unaccounted for while 12 others are hospitalised. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Mayor of George, Leon van Wyk.
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News has launched Democracy 30, a programme dedicated to marking this milestone. As with any new democracy, the South African public health system and policies have been thrust under the spotlight in past three decades. None more evidently than the country's transformation during the deadly HIV/Aids pandemic. South Africa's health policies in the fight against the scourge, went from a widely-criticised denialist stance to one of the most advanced treatment programmes in the world. SABC reporter, Reneé Heine filed this report....
The Constitutional Court has asked the Electoral Commission, Umkhonto Wesizwe party and former President, Jacob Zuma to make written submissions over statements made by the IEC's Commissioner, Janet Love by the end of business on Tuesday. This is in the matter which is set to determine Zuma's eligibility to stand for public office. The MK party, through its legal counsel, argued before the Concourt last week that Love was biased after she said the former President would not be eligible to stand for public office due to his 15-month sentence meted out by the Constitutional Court. For more on this matter we're now joined on the line by our reporter Zoleka Qodashe
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) says its ready for South Africans living abroad to vote this coming weekend. IEC CEO, Sy Mamabolo says voting stations will be open from 07:00am to 19:00pm, allowing 76 580 voters to exercise their right to vote in South Africa's 2024 National Elections. South African citizens will be voting at the country's 111 foreign missions on Friday (17 May) and Saturday (18 May). Mamabolo was briefing the media a short while ago about the general readiness for 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighthers - Julius Malema says under his leadership, he will ensure that people of Northern Cape benefit from all the minerals that are produced in that province. Malema was addressing his supporters in Postmansburg on Sunday. He says it is unacceptable that people in the Province continue to suffer while there are mines.Tebogo Msimanga filed this report
The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says Eskom has achieved of 70.78% energy availability factor (EAF). The minister described the achievement as a milestone that was last attained in August of 2021. The country has seen 47 days without load shedding and Ramokgopa says this is as a result of consistent performance.
The National Department of Health has urged the public to take extra precautionary measures to protect themselves and their loved ones against respiratory infections, which are expected to increase over the winter season. According to the department, the respiratory syncytial virus is currently at peak circulation in the country, while influenza also known as flu is starting to surge. Meanwhile, COVID-19 continues to circulate at low levels. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), which monitors the circulation of respiratory viruses throughout the country, has notified the department that it is currently the peak season of RSV, which some can confuse for COVID-19 due to common symptoms. SABC TV News Ancho Ayanda Nyathi spoke to Mvuyo Makhasi, data manager for respiratory diseases and meningitis at the National Institute for
The murder trial of former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa has once again been delayed by a further postponement to Wednesday by the Pretoria High Court. This after the trial was postponed two weeks ago due to evidence related to the cellphone communication between all the accused dating back to 2018. The state introduced new evidence as court proceedings were due to get underway. The defence accused the state of engaging in a trial by ambush. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
Slain 5-year-old Ditebogo Junior Phalane already had his future planned out for him despite his tender age. He wanted to be a lawyer to deal with criminals and fight crime. Unfortunately, that dream was cut short by ruthless criminals who fatally wounded the preschooler on Friday night during a hijacking incident outside his family home in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria. He later died in hospital. Police are still searching for his killers. SABC reporter, Patricia Vissagie reports...
The number of deceased people from the George collapsed building has now risen to 24. 28 people remain unaccounted for while 13 are still in hospital. It has been a week since the multistorey building under construction imploded. 81 people were on site when the building collapsed last Monday. Rescue operations continue while the identification of the deceased remains a priority in order to provide closure for the families. The George Municipality says there is an urgent call for professional psychosocial support practitioners proficient in Chewa, Portuguese, and Shona languages to assist survivors and their families. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty; Forensic Pathology Services Assistant Director, Floyd Herwels and Department of Employment and Labour, David Essau.
Family and friends of the workers who were trapped when a building under construction collapsed at George in the Western Cape say they need more clarity about their loved ones. They say they have not been informed whether they are still trapped, deceased, or in hospital. The number of those who were on-site during the collapse on Monday was revised from 75 to 81, with 44 people still unaccounted for and eight confirmed deceased. Meanwhile, officials have called on the developers of the building to come forward, so that the proper procedures and investigations can be followed. Sakina Kamwendo to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty
Israeli forces bombarded areas of Rafah on Thursday, Palestinian residents said, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed U.S. President Joe Biden's threat to withhold weapons from Israel if it assaults the southern Gaza city. A senior Israeli official said late on Thursday that the latest round of indirect negotiations in Cairo to halt hostilities in Gaza had ended and Israel would proceed with its operation in Rafah and other parts of the Gaza Strip as planned. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
The inquest trial against Enyobeni tavern owners Vuyokazi and Siyakhangela Ndevu commences today at the Mdantsane Magistrates Court. The matter was postponed last month when the accused's legal team said the state did not inform her clients on time about the court dates. This is related to the case of 21 young patrons who died at their Enyobeni tavern in June 2022. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Abongile Jantjies...
Family and friends of the workers who were trapped when a building under construction collapsed at George in the Western Cape say they need more clarity about their loved ones. They say they have not been informed whether they are still trapped, deceased, or in hospital. The number of those who were on-site during the collapse on Monday was revised from 75 to 81, with 44 people still unaccounted for and eight confirmed deceased. Meanwhile, officials have called on the developers of the building to come forward, so that the proper procedures and investigations can be followed. SABC reporter, Tanya Kruse has the details...
The Constitutional Court has ruled that the Labour Party together with Ace Magashule's African Congress for Transformation and the Afrikan Alliance of Social Democrats will not be on the ballot paper for the upcoming national and provincial elections. The court made the brief order earlier, opening the pathway to May 29th remaining the official voting day. The three parties sought to delay the elections. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodesha.
The city of Johannesburg is going to need over 30 million rand to repair damaged infrastructure on the M1 bridge. A few days back, a devastating fire estimated to be six times the normal heat ravaged through a tunnel containing city power infrastructure. It caused damages to the bridge and has burned around 500 metres of underground cables. The fire is attributed to cable theft. The city held a media briefing to give an update. Horisani Sithole reports
Outgoing Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has just more than three months left in office before retirement. President Ramaphosa was appointed Chief Justice Zondo, effectively from the 1st of April 2022, following the retirement of Mogoeng Mogoeng. As Mercedes Besent reports, the 64-year-old Zondo is still expected to preside over the first sitting of the 7th Parliament after the general elections.
The looming question - is the non-compliance of some political parties to submit their candidates list by the March 8 deadline due to their own conduct? The Constitutional Court is tasked with determining this question among other things. This after three political parties hauled the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) before the apex court, seeking an urgent intervention from the court. According to the parties, they could not comply with Section 27 of the Electoral Act due to alleged technical glitches with the Commission's online portal. Zoleka Qodashe reports..
Former President Thabo Mbeki has paid tribute to one of the founders of the largest and best-known African business organizations, the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce, Dr Sam Motsuenyane. Mbeki says through his leadership at NAFCOC, Motsuenyane became a friend of the African National Congress, providing support to the party and its leaders during their time in exile. Mbeki described to Motsuenyane as as a pioneer of black business.
Officials at the site of the George building disaster in the Western Cape say that while they have moved to recovery mode, this doesn't mean that they've given up hope of finding survivors. The figure of the number of people present in the building when it collapsed on Monday has been revised from 75 to 81. Eight people have been confirmed dead, while 44 are now unaccounted for. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sagree Chetty.
The George Municipality says 36 construction workers have been retrieved from the collapsed building in George in the Western Cape. The death toll now sits at seven deceased. 16 individuals are declared red patients, which means that they are in a critical condition receiving the necessarry medical attention, six patients are said to be in the category of yellow which means life threatening condition, while seven are on a green alert with minor injuries. A total of 39 construction are still unaccounted for. Rescue operations still continue on site. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Head of Western Cape Disaster Management, Colin Deiner
In an effort to drive voter education ahead of the 2024 general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to know about. So join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday, until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after election day. Today's focus is on the key activities on the 2024 election timetable, including voting outside of your district, an update on special votes and voting abroad. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the IEC's Mmakgabo J Ramatlhodi.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the 28th anniversary of the Constitutional Assembly's adoption of South Africa's new democratic Constitution. Ramaphosa is currently speaking at the launch of the 30 years of Democracy Review Report, which aims to give a critical view of what the country has achieved since the dawn of democracy, 30 years ago. He says the while South Africans have worked hard in the past three decades, it is vital for the country to reflect on progress towards the aspirations of the Freedom Charter...
Hearings involving three political parties who wish to join the May 29 national and provincial elections are ongoing at the Constitutional Court. The parties, namely, the Labour Party, the African Congress for Transformation together with the African Alliance of Social democrats is being heard by a nine-bench panel of judges of the apex court. The parties allege thay they were unable to comply with the March 8 deadline in accordance with Section 27 of the Electoral Act due to alleged technical glitches with the IEC's online portal. For the latest from what's coming out of court, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
The Democratic Alliance has defended its latest election's advert which depicts the burning of the South African flag into ashes. The DA unveiled the advert at the weekend with the aim of gaining more votes ahead of the national and provincial elections. In the advert, a South African flag is burnt to ashes with a background voice narrating how the DA would save the country from the fire. The party furtehr alleged that a coalition of teh ANC and EFF post the upcmong elections would lead to the total collapse amd destruction of the country. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to independent political analyst, Enoch Maponya
The death toll in the the collapse of a multi-story building collapsed in George in the Western Cape now stands at six. Twenty-seven people have been removed from the rubble but 48 others are still unaccounted for. About 75 workers were on site when the building collapsed yesterday afternoon. President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed his condolences to the families and friends of people who have died after the collapse of a multi-storey building. Head of Western Cape Disaster Management, Colin Deiner, says additional emergency personnel and equipment are on their way from Cape Town and Worcester....
It remained unclear if the IEC has received a letter that the uMkhoto weSizwe Party founder Jabulani Khumalo says he has written to the commission. In the letter dated the fifth of this month, Khumalo has requested the commission to urgently remove Jacob Zuma as the face of the party. Khumalo has also placed Zuma on precautionary suspension, citing bringing the party into disrepute. Khumalo's letter comes after his expulsion from the MK party last week, alongside four party members. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Samkele Maseko...
The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime says gangs in certain parts of Cape Town now make as much money from extortion as they do selling drugs. In its report, the organisation identified four main extortion economies, the central business district night-time extortion economy, Cape Town's construction mafia, the transport extortion economy, and the township enterprise extortion economy. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to researcher at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, Jenni Irish-Qhobosheane.
Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, says the provincial government and the City of Johannesburg will establish a joint committee to ensure the implementation of the recommendations of the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry. The inquiry into the Usindiso building fire released its report yesterday following months of hearings. The commission's findings include the liability of the City of Johannesburg and its entities for the deaths of the 77 mostly foreign residents. The blaze which ravaged the building in August last year, also led to numerous injuries and displacements. Sashin Naidoo reports...
The South Africa Police Service's top brass says over 600-thousand suspects have been nabbed since the inception of its Operation Shanela initiative. The initiative was launched last May in order to address crime in high-density areas and has resulted in the completion of 71-thousand operations to date. Speaking to members of the media earlier this morning, the SAPS's Major General Mashadi Selepe said thousands of people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs....
The Competition Commission has released the latest Essential Food Pricing Monitoring Report, which monitors the price of essential food items identified by the public; including sunflower oil, brown bread, eggs, IQF chicken and maize meal. Last year, the report found that South Africans are overpaying for specific food items, despite a significant decrease in inflation. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Economist at the Competition Commission, Kagiso Zwane.
The ANC seems undecided on the course of action that ought to be employed in relation to former ANC President, Jacob Zuma. The party has oscillated between deciding that there would be a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday, holding it off, then announcing that it would be held virtually, and then calling for it to be held in abeyance until after the elections. The party has, on various occasions, said there was no need to tackle the former leader's alleged misconduct as he had voluntarily left the organisation. However, it seems it is of a different view just weeks before the May elections. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says the stability of the Eskom grid in recent times is not an elections gimmick. Ramokgopa has attributed the stability of the national grid to concerted efforts by both the Eskom board and its workforce. The Minister was addressing the media earlier from Pretoria in his weekly update to the nation
The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union - AMCU - says investigations into mining fatalities must be sped up, especially in incidents that resulted in multiple fatalities. This is as the Department of Mineral Resources revealed that investigation reports on the findings, recommendations and any remedial steps have not been finalized with regard to the accident that claimed 13 lives at Impala Platinum's Shaft 11 in Rustenburg in the North West in November last year. Eleven miners were killed at the scene and 75 injured. Two miners died later in hospital. Sentleeng Lehihi reports.
City Power security guards had an exchange of gun fire with suspected criminal gangs which attempted to steal copper cables from the tunnels where a fire broke out on the M1 highway in the Johannesburg's CBD on Tuesday. The fire which caused traffic disruptions in the area has been contained but black thick smoke remains visible. Surrounding areas such as Braamfontein are without power as City Power officials attempt to assess the extent of the damage. SABC TV reporter, Calvin Dludla earlier caught up with City Power spokesperson, Issac Mangena underneath the M1 highway
Statistics produced by the police and mortuary surveillance systems in South Africa have consistently shown that firearms are the most commonly used weapons to commit murder and other violent crimes, such as carjacking and house robberies. The is an urgent need for stronger gun control measures in South Africa, this is according to Dr Guy Lamb of Stellenbosch University. The proposed amendments have once again stirred public debate, particularly about whether tighter laws do actually reduce firearm violence. The Civilian Secretariat for Police Services has invited public comment on the proposed amendments, and has reportedly received more than 100-thousand submissions. Police statistics paint a grim picture, showing a staggering 30% increase in gun-related killings over the past five years. To talk more on this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr Guy Lamb, a senior lecturer at the Political Science school at Stellenbosch university
The South African workforce says, the rising cost of living expenses has placed increased financial stress on their shoulders, as many families battle to pay for basic needs. As the country commemorates Workers Day, workers say, there is little to celebrate as many face escalating financial pressures due to increased cost of housing, transportation, food and electricity. For this Workers Day, Prabashini Moodley takes a closer look at the financial strain experienced by workers amid economic challenges exacerbated by ongoing electricity shortages and a sluggish economic growth rate, SABC reporter Prabashini Moodley filed.
Traffic has been disrupted in some of the major roads in the Eastern Cape due to a shutdown by scholar transport operators, making nearly impossible for commuters, goods and services to move around the province. The Provincial Transport Department Spokesperson, Unathi Binqose, says the Buffalo City Metro is proving to be the epicentre of this protest action, with blockades in some of the major routes leading to the CBDs in East London and Qonce in particular. Binqose says no violence has been reported so far. For the latest Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter Nomzwanele Mngoma...
The Senzo Meyiwa trial has adjourned till Monday at the High Court in Pretoria. Five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of Meyiwa who was shot and killed while at Kelly Khumalo's home in Vosloorus on Gauteng's East Rand. SABC reporter Peal Magubane filed this report
African National Congress President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has applauded South African workers for continuing to contribute to the country's economy. Ramaphosa was speaking at the COSATU's Workers' Day rally in Athlone Stadium, in Cape Town. He was among the federation's leadership including COSATU president, Zingiswa Losi, as well as SACP's General Secretary Solly Mapaila, who all delivered messages of solidarity with the workers and the people of Palestine.
Retrenchments of about 5000 Post Office workers is still continuing. The South African Post Office's (SAPO's) joint business rescue practitioners have announced that attempts to secure funding from the Temporary Employment Relief Scheme (TERS) have failed. They lodged an application with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation & Arbitration (CCMA) following discussions with unions in the hopes of delaying staff cuts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nathan Bowers, National Bargaining Coordinator of the Communications Workers Union
Motorists in Johannesburg have been urged to avoid the M1 North double-decker highway near the CBD. This follows a fire earlier today which is believed to have been caused by under underground cables which supply electricity to surrounding areas such as Braamfontein. Joburg's emergency services have been on site in collaboration with City Fire technicians in an attempt to open up the underground tunnels and extinguish the fire. For the latest on this we are now joined on the line by Joburg EMS spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi...
Some workers with disabilities in Mahikeng in the North West say it is disheartening to see certain challenges affecting people with disabilities continuing, despite numerous calls to workplace conditions to better accommodate them. The challenges include buildings or offices structured in a manner that does not accommodate wheelchair-bound employees, conditions that do not meet the occupational health and safety measure, stigma and exclusion from various activities. This comes as the country commemorates Workers' Day. Reporter, Sellwane Khakhau compiled the following report.
Speculation around a possible imminent move by the Prosecutor of International Criminal Court against senior Israeli leadership is growing with several Israeli media now reporting that officials there believe the Court could issue warrants of arrest soon. I.C.C. Prosecutor Karim Khan has not commented, but media reports suggest potential warrants could be issued in relation to the blocking of humanitarian aid that led to starvation in Gaza, but also to members of Hamas over actions emanating from the October 7th attacks. As Correspondent Sherwin Bryce-Pease tells us, some Israeli-Hebrew media also report that the United States is being intensely lobbied to use its leverage to prevent the ICC from acting.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has called on authorities to urgently investigate allegations that the newly-formed Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party reportedly falsified signatures it submitted to the commission for consideration ahead of next month's elections. This comes after the party recently dismissed one of its senior members, Jabulani Khumalo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Spokesperson for the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, Nhlamulo Ndhlela,
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News has launched a new programme dedicated to marking this important milestone. Join Update@Noon every Tuesday, from today, as we zoom in on some of the people and events that laid the ground work for South Africa as we know it today. In the build up to the country's historic 1994 democratic elections, bloodshed, gunshots, looting and overall unrest were a common site in Bophuthatswana in March of that year. This was sparked by the announcement by Kgosi Lucas Mangope, the leader of the nominally independent South African Bantustan created under apartheid, that the territory would not participate in the general elections, which were to be held on April. Civil servants, including police and the military officers, students at the former Bophuthatswana University, as well as the general public, took to the streets, rendering the capital, Mmabatho ungovernable. Staff at the Bophuthatswana Broadcasting Corporation, would later join the strike, causing more panic for the authorities. SABC News reporter, Itumeleng Kgajane looks back at some of the events that took place then.
Section 27, the Cancer Alliance and the Treatment Action Campaign, together with patients waiting for cancer treatment have embarked on a march to the offices of the Gauteng Department of Health. The group is calling for the department to spend the R784 million set aside by provincial Treasury in March 2023, for the purpose of outsourcing radiation oncology services for over 3-thousand patients who are currently on the department's treatment backlog list. The NGOs claim that many of the patients on the backlog list have been waiting for these services for years, with some patients having already passed on while waiting for the department to act. For more on this, SABC acnhor, LeAnne Manas spoke to the Gauteng Department of Health's Dr Ntsakisi Maluleke and Section 27's Khanyisa Mapisa and began by asking Dr Maluleke what the latest is in the process of securing radiation oncology services for patients.
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya on a number of issues including reports that SABC head of news Meshoeshoe Monare is being targeted ahead of the 29th May general elections. Magwenya's comments follow a News24 article that Monare is under scrutiny for the negative publicity against the ANC leading up to the elections. This was reportedly after what's purported to be a leaked audio recording of ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa's plans during an NEC meeting that the party would challenge any negative reporting by media houses. Magwenya says Monare's vetting process was requested by the SABC only because his security clearance was not completed after joining the public broadcaster in 2022
According to the White House, the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden spoke on Sunday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and "reiterated his clear position" on a possible invasion of the Gaza border city of Rafah. Washington says it cannot not support a Rafah operation without an appropriate and credible humanitarian plan. Here is the latest report by the Reuters News Agency...
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has resumed in the Pretoria High Court after it was postponed last Friday when defence counsel - Thulani Mngomezulu - sent a letter to the court's registra informing the court that he would not be in court. Presiding Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng was not happy with this, prompting Mngomezulu's colleague, defence counsel Zandile Mshololo to apologise on behalf of Mngomezulu. Five men are on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane filed has more….
Defence and Military Veterans Minister, Thandi Modise, says a task team to deal with elections related crimes has been set up to respond to any form of criminality ahead of the May 29 general elections. Modise was speaking at the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster media briefing in Pretoria. She was joined by Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, International Relations Minister, Naledi Pandor, and Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Nyshavheni. SABC News reporter, Horisani Sithole has more.
Health officials are urging parents and caregivers to immediately take children and vulnerable groups to their health facilities when experiencing difficulties breathing due to respiratory infections. This as adults from the age of 65, people with underlying illnesses such as heart and lung disease, people living with HIV and tuberculosis, as well as pregnant women are at high risk of severe influenza. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo.
The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) has passed the Pension Funds Amendment Bill without any objections. The Bill was passed by the National Assembly last month and sent to the NCOP for concurrence. Other Bills that were also passed by the NCOP include the Climate Change Bill and the Post Office Amendment Bill as Mercedes Besent reports.
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) says South African bank account holders may rest assured that their deposits are safe in their accounts. This comes as the central bank launched the Corporation for Deposit Insurance (CODI) in Johannesburg. CODI is a subsidiary of the Reserve Bank that will work with other financial sector players to protect depositors in the unlikely event that their bank fails and is placed into curatorship. Nothando Magudulela reports...
Eskom's executives updated the nation on the state of the power utility's systems and the company's winter outloook and operations performance. This as the country has not experienced any loadshedding for almost a month. This has largely been attributed to a better performance by Eskom and private investment into renewable energy by households and businesses. In this extract, Eskom chairman, Mteto Nyathi elaborates.
On the eve of the first democratic elections in South Africa, journalist, Angus Begg visited the community of Pietermaritzburg, in what is now known as KwaZulu-Natal and he spoke to them about their expectations for the historical day ahead.
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has expressed disappointment that one of the defense counsels in the Senzo MeyiwaTrial did not inform him directly of his absence from today's proceedings. Defence counsel, Thulani Mngomezulu sent a letter to the court's registra this morning informing the court of his ill health. Mngomezulu represents accused 1, Muzi Sibiya , who is appearing alongside 4 other accused at High Court in Pretoria for their alleged involvement in the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana Captain. SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane is following the story for us and she filed this report.
The City of Johannesburg has reiterated that the sheriff of the court has no legal authority to effect a warrant of arrest, saying that it is sorely the responsibility of the South African Police Service (SAPS). This follows an attempt by the sheriff to enforce a warrant of arrest against Johannesburg City Manager, Floyd Brink, at his residence in Roodepoort, Johannesburg. The City failed to adhere to a court order prohibiting its officials from disconnecting services to a client. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director at Mojapelo Attorneys, Tshepho Mojapelo.
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News is gearing up to launch a programme dedicated to marking this important milestone. In the build-up to the launch of SABC News' Democracy 30 Project on the 26th of April, Update@Noon zooms in on the Boipatong Massacre which is widely regarded as a key moment in South Africa's transition to democracy. The massacre is also frequently cited as an example of the state's complicity in the political violence that shook the country during a period of negotiations and reform. Following the harrowing massacre, the African National Congress announced its sudden withdrawal from the talks with the white-controlled government. The ANC accused the then government of a systematic campaign to subvert democracy through violence. In this SABC News ' extract, then ANC leader, Nelson Mandela addressed members of the media where he revealed that the party had issued several demands, including an international inquiry into the massacre.
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority says about 4 000 employers have been failing to pay the retirement contributions of workers. According to the FSCA, approximately R7 billion in contributions remain unpaid, with companies lagging between 5 months and 252 months (21 years) in outstanding payments , and the figure covers the period up until July last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Retirement Funds Conduct Supervision Manager at FSCA, Takalani Lukhaimane.
The South African Human Right Commission has found that fundamental human rights were violated in the Enyobeni tavern tragedy which claimed the lives of 21 teenagers at Scenery Park, just outside East London in the Eastern Cape. The commission has fingered the Buffalo City Metro together with the province's Liquor Board including the local police, the health and social departments with the department of Trade and Industry. The Enyobeni tragedy involved victims aged between 14 and 20 years who died while celebrating their end of year exams. Owners of the tavern, Siyakhangela and Vuyokazi Ndevu have already been found guilty, of selling alcohol to minors and have been given a five-thounsand rand fine each or a hundred days in prison. Reading out the report, Commissioner Berlinda Kwinana had the following to say.
The National Director of Public Prosecution, Advocate Shamila Batohi has defended the formulation of the new Corporate Alternative Dispute Resolution, insisting that its main objective is to encourage corporates to report themselves in cases of alleged corruption. Batohi's assertions follow criticism against the initiative as corporates corporates in the country can now opt for the C-ADR with law enforcement agencies in order to avoid criminal charges. Advocate Batohi engaged with media practitioners earlier today insisting that this initiative will enhance accountability.
Investigating officer, Sergeant Batho Mogola has continued to be cross examined by the defence in the Senzo Meyiwa trial at the High Court in Pretoria. Defence counsel, Thulani Mngomezulu accused the investigating team of "cooking up" the case, alleging that the team is covering up for the real perpetrator. Five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to be knowledgeable about. So join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday, until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after election day. Today's focus is on South Africa's celebration of the country's 30 years of democracy and how the country's commemoration of this milestone impacts the May elections. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC Chairperson, Mosotho Moepya.
A standoff has unfolded outside the Roodepoort home of Johannesburg City Manager, Floyd Brink, after a warrant was issued for his arrest following the city's reported failure to comply with a court order. This was in an attempt to enforce a warrant of arrest on Brink in relation to a matter that involves a resident of the City and a disputed utilities account. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Johannesburg Mayoral Spokesperson, Mlimandlela Ndamase
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News is gearing up to launch a programme dedicated to marking this important milestone. In the build-up to the launch of SABC News' Democracy 30 Project on the 26th of April, Update@Noon zooms in on the Boipatong massacre which is widely regarded as a key moment in South Africa's transition to democracy. The massacre is also frequently cited as an example of the state's complicity in the political violence that shook the country during a period of negotiations and reform. On the 24th of JUNE 1992, then African National Congress Leader, Nelson Mandela halted ongoing negotiations with the National Party as he believed that the apartheid government had a hand the deadly massacre. The announcement came as a huge shock to the National Party. National Party Cabinet Minister and Chief Negotiator Roelf Meyer narrates the story to the SABC's Anita Visser.
As South Africa marks 30 years of Democracy, SABC News is gearing up to launch a programme dedicated to marking this important milestone. In the build-up to the launch of SABC News' Democracy 30 project on 26 April 2024, Update@Noon zooms in on the Reservation of Separate Amenities Act, which came into effect in 1953. The act was one of the pieces of segregationist legislation enacted by the Apartheid regime to divide South Africans, while also reserving the greatest share of public services for white South Africans. The statute was in effect until 1990, when it was eventually repealed. Opposition to this act was widespread and ongoing, but none was more prominent than Allan Hendrickse, the Labour Party leader, swimming on a whites only the beach in 1987. He disobeyed the law by taking to the water on Kings Beach in Port Elizabeth while serving in PW Botha's cabinet. Botha made him apologize for the stunt, but the message was conveyed, and the world watched. SABC News reporter, Ntombozukho Balintulo filed this report.
Economist at Optimum Investment Group, Dr Roelof Botha says South Africans are paying the cost of an unnecessarily harsh monetary policy. According Dr Botha, South Africa's interest rates do not need to be as high as they currently are. The South African Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Committee began its current hiking cycle in November 2021, with the repo rate currently at 8.25%. Dr Roelof Botha spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has resumed in the High Court in Pretoria, a day after defence counsel, Thulani Mngomezulu accused the investigating team of covering up for the real perpetrator of the 2014 murder. Five men are on trial for gunning down the Bafana Bafana captain in October 2014. Mngomezulu claims that Longwe Twala fired the shot that killed Meyiwa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says more than 500 000 workers are part-owners of the companies they work for. Ramaphosa was addressing the inaugural Worker Share Ownership conference at the Sandton Convention Centre, in Johannesburg. He says worker share ownership schemes furthermore complement the Black Industrialist Programme, providing another means through which government can contribute towards more equitable ownership in the economy.
Delegates at the Mauritius Investment Promotion and Residency Week conference in Sandton, have heard that there are growing investment opportunities for South Africans looking to invest and expand their businesses in Mauritius. Rated thirteen globally in the ease of doing business, Mauritius offers growth opportunities in key sectors such as manufacturing, financial services, real estate and retail. South Africa is the second largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mauritius after France, representing about 15-percentof total FDI in Mauritius. Naledi Ngcobo reports
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu says the residents of Giyani in Limpopo will have to wait until mid-May to receive water from the delayed multi-billion rand Giyani Bulk water project. The project which started in 2010, has faced several delays due to alleged maladministration and corruption. It was initially budgeted for 90 million but skyrocketed to over three billion rand. The project is aimed at supplying water to more than 55 villages in and around Giyani. SABC News reporter Vutivi Maluleke compiled the report.
The case against the four men accused of killing four anti-apartheid activists 37 years ago has been remanded in the Boksburg Magistrate's Court for a substantive application for postponement. The Foundation for Human Rights and Webber Wentzel say that they welcome the arrest and subsequent indictment of the fourth accused, Pieter Stander, in connection with the murder of anti-apartheid activist Caiphus Nyoka. Stander was allegedly apprehended at O.R. Tambo International Airport earlier this month, but was subsequently released on warning. Stander will stand trial alongside Johan Marais, Leon Louis Van Den Berg, and Abram Hercules Engelbrecht. The accused face charges of conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and defeating the ends of justice. The trial in the matter is scheduled to commence in the Gauteng High Court, sitting at the Benoni Magistrates' Court, today and the case is expected to run until 3 May 2024. SABC News reporter, Prabashni Moodley has more.
The High Court in Durban has dismissed with costs the ANC's application to stop the uMkhonto weSizwe Party from using a name and logo similiar to that of the governing party's disbanded uMkhonto we Sizwe military wing. The ANC had accused the MK party of violating the Trademarks Act. SABC News reporter Simphiwe Makhanya spoke to the founder of the MK party, Jabulani Khumalo shortly after the judgment.
The African National Congress has been dealt another legal blow after the High Court in Durban dismissed with costs, its case against the Umkhonto weSizwe Party. The ANC had hauled the MK party to court accusing it of violating the Trademarks Act by using the name and logo similar to that of the governing party's disbanded uMkhonto weSizwe military wing. This is how the judge delivered judgment a short while ago. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
Limpopo Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba says only three bodies are yet to be identified from those killed while travelling to Moria for the Easter Pilgrimage. Forty-Five people died when a bus carrying St Enginas ZCC pilgrims plunged into a ravine in Limpopo and burst into flames. Six of the deceased were identified immediately after the accident, while the other 36 were identified through DNA tests. Dr Ramathuba explains further..
Supporters of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party are celebrating another legal victory. This after the Durban High Court dismissed with costs, an application by the African National Congress, accusing the MK party of being in violation of the Trademarks Act by using a name and logo similar to that of the disbanded uMkhonto weSizwe military wing. Elvis Presslin spoke to Fanele Mhongo.
The Minister in the Presidency responsible for electricity, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says Eskom has turned the corner on rolling blackouts. He says the last 27 days without power cuts show the energy action plan is working. Ramokgopa has however cautioned against the stability of the grid being used for electioneering. He says recent days of now no load-shedding has nothing to do with the the upcoming elections...
As the sixth Parliament is coming to an end, this year will also mark thirty years of the existence of a democratic South African Parliament after the end of apartheid. As Mercedes Besent reports, advocates of constitutionalism, Parliament and the people of South Africa have expressed their views to reflect on the role of the National Legislature.
The residents of Moremela near Graskop, in Mpumalanga, have called on the police to assist them evict undocumented foreigners from their community. They claim the foreign nationals are illegally mining gold in the old mines around the area. Last week, eight houses were set alight after community members rounded up some undocumented foreign nationals. SABC News reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng has more.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane says the camping trip where two learners drowned at the Hennops river in Centurion, Pretoria on Monday, was not authorised by the department. Two learners, aged 13 and 16, from Daveyton Skills School in Ekurhuleni, were attending a discipline camp organised by non-government organisation ,Rising Stars Generation. 90 special needs learners were part of the excursion. None of the teachers were part of the camp and learners we only accompanied by a social worker with no life jacket. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane , who says the district office was never notified by the school of such a trip.
The High Court in Pietermaritzburg has struck off the roll the former president Jacob Zuma's case to privately prosecute Advocate Billy Downer and journalist, Karyn Maughan. Zuma has accused Downer, who is the lead prosecutor in his arms deal corruption case and Maughan of illegally leaking a doctor's letter to the media. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Dries Liebenberg.
In an effort to drive voter education ahead of the 2024 general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to be knowledgeable about. So join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday, until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after election day. Today's focus is on the launch of the Schools Democracy Programme, a partnership between the IEC and the Department of Basic Education. Sakina Kamwendo spoke IEC General Manager, Moagisi Sibanda.
Marking what he called a heartbreaking milestone of one year since the outbreak a civil war in Sudan, the U.N. Secretary General has expressed his belief that the world is forgetting about the northeast African country. Addressing journalists in New York, Antonio Guterres warned that while the world was focused on escalating tensions in the Middle East, other dramatic life and death emergencies, like the one in the Sudan, were being swept into the shadows. Over 14-thousand people have died since the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Paramilitary Forces began their power struggle that has essentially waged war on the people of Sudan with dramatic humanitarian consequences. SABC reporter, Sherwin Bryce-Pease has more.
The trial of five men accused of the 2014 murder of Bafana Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa has resumed in the High Court in Pretoria, where the cross examination of ballistics expert, Chris Mangena has been postponed to 20 May 2024. Yesterday, the court heard that two of the accused were found in possession of cellphones in their prison cells. A cellphone was found in possession of accused 5, Fisokuhle Ntuli, while he was detained in 2020 at Qalakabusha Prison in Empangeni, in KwaZulu-Natal. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane who is reporting that the state has now called cellphone data analyst, Gideon Gouws to the stand.
Sentencing procedures in the trial of a teenager and her two co-accused of the murder of four members of her family members have been postponed to the 3rd of June. Onthathile Sebati, cousins Kagiso Mokone and Tumelo Mokone were found guilty of murdering Sebati's parents, her pregnant sister and a three-year-old brother at their home in Mmakau, near Brits, almost 8 years ago. The deceased were wiped out in a cold-blooded murder orchestrated by Onthatile who was 15-years-old at the time. SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni filed this report.
A level 5 weather alert, issued by the South African Weather Service, remains in force in KwaZulu-Natal. This as heavy downpours have left a trail of destruction in Margate where at least five people have died in Sunday night's floods. According to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), about eight people have been rescued, while more than six vehicles have been recovered after flood water swept through the town. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC news reporter, Fanele Mhlongo.
The department of Correctional Services has brought an application asking High Court to prevent G4S, the operating sub contractor at the Mangaung Prison from seeking relief in ongoing proceedings on a matter relating to the termination of the security company's contract. G4S was contracted by Bloemfontein Correctional Contracts to operate the facility but the department of Correctional Services terminates the services of G4S last year following the escape of Thabo Bester, a convicted murderer and rapist from the prison. SABC reporter, Hasina Gori filed this report....
Impeached Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane will have her matter heard before the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on Thursday. Mkhwebane is seeking the urgent intervention of the court after the Office of the Public Protector allegedly informed her in February this year that she would not be receiving the gratuity due to her impeachment. SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe reports.
The Israeli War Cabinet is set to meet again today as the country decides its next steps after Iran's retaliatory attack over the weekend. Israel described the 350-missile attack on the nation as a 'declaration of war'. Meanwhile Iran has warned Israel against retaliation, saying an Iranian response would be "much larger than Sunday's military action". This as the U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has said it's time to "step back from the brink", as world leaders urged restraint. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg, Professor Chris Landsberg.
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has resumed at the High Court in Pretoria. In a previous court appearance, e-Natis expert Christopher Motlou wrapped up his testimony. Judge Ratha Mokgatlheng granted a recess so the defence can prepare for the cross-examination. Five men are on trial for the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain who was shot and killed in 2014. The ballistic expert is expected to take the stand this morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
The Electoral Court is today hearing five matters in which political parties seek similar relief. The parties are independently arguing that they failed to comply with the March 8 deadline due to the alleged malfunctioning of IEC's portal. Parties were expected to submit their candidate lists on the portal by the 8th. The IEC, the respondent in the matter, argues that the Commission's portal had no faults. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qhodashe.
African National Congress President, Cyril Ramaphosa says the creation of jobs, reducing the cost of living and the provision of decent basic services will be the main priorities of the ANC's 7th administration after the May 29 polls. He was speaking to media after his door-to-door campaign in Orange Farm south of Johannesburg on Sunday. Most residents complained about unemployment especially among young people and poor service delivery from their municipality. Our Political Reporter, Ntebo Mokobo, trailed the ANC president and filed this report.
National Student Financial Aid Scheme beneficiaries from various institutions of higher learning are participating in a national shutdown over a number of issues, including the non-payment of allowances. The South African Students' Congress (SASCO) has joined on the march aat Brugers Park in the Pretoria CBD, calling for the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Blade Nzimande to step down. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Sasco Gauteng provincial secretary, Siphosakhe Ngunze
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party has called for the immediate resignation of the commissioner of the Electoral Commission, Janet Love for what the party says is her blatant bias. The party has warned that if Love does not exit the commission in the next seven days, it reserves the right to pursue all available avenues including approaching the courts. In a statement, the party has cited Love's response to a question during a January media briefing in which she said Zuma would not be eligible to be on the MK Party's Parliamentary candidates' list. It says the pronouncement was premature and in violation of electoral rules which stipulate that such declarations can only be made following an official objection. For more on this, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Executive Chairman of the Institute of Election Management Services in Africa, Terry Tselane.
The Electoral Commission says it has the responsibility to clarify constitutional principles and make sure that they are correctly applied. This is with regards to the nomination of candidates running in next month's elections. According to the commission's Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo, this is is the reason they are seeking leave to appeal the Electoral Court's ruling in favour of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. The commission has approached the Constitutional Court on an urgent basis after the Electoral Court ruled against its disqualification of the party leader Jacob Zuma from running in next month's elections. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to uMkhonto we Sizwe party, Nhlamulo Ndhlela
The City of Johannesburg has issued a warning to all defaulting residential property owners and businesses that it will soon start blacklisting them to recover debts owed. The city says it also intends to invoke its Credit Control and Debt Collection Policy by reporting defaulting payers to appropriate Credit Bureaus. Udo Carelse spoke to City of Johannesburg's Public Relations and Media Specialist, Nkosana Lekotjolo
Lesotho is hosting its inaugural mining indaba. The event aimed at reshaping the future of Lesotho's mining industry. The event brings together key stakeholders in the mining sector to discuss critical issues and chart a path towards sustainable and equitable development. The Indaba is being held at the 'Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru. The minister of natural resources in Lesotho, Mohlomi Moleko, now joins us on the line to elaborate further about the indaba.
The Ekurhuleni Metro runs the risk of being placed under administration if it fails to elect a new mayor today in what is the council's third attempt since the sacking of former mayor, Sivuyile Ngodwana. Today's extra-ordinary meeting, was meant to start at 10am but has since been delayed with the ANC and EFF caucuses believed to be locked in last-minute meetings. The DA caucus together with ActionSA councilors are already in council chambers waiting for proceedings to begin.Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo.
Airline operators, Airlink and Global Airways Operations – which co-own the domestic airline, Lift- have launched complaints with two aviation authorities against FlySafair for allegedly breaching the foreign ownership regulations as set out by the Air Services Licensing Act and the International Air Services Act. The complaint to the International Air Services Council and Air the Services License Council alleges that foreign shareholders own 74% of FlySafair, which is a violation of the conditions of its aviation license and the country's laws. Udo Carelse spoke to Editor of SA Flyer Magazine, Guy Leitch.
The private prosecution case brought by former President, Jacob Zuma against his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa has been postponed to the 6th of August this year. This as the former President still has pending appeals that need to be concluded for the matter to be heard in the criminal court. Zuma appeared in the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg in his capacity as private prosecutor. SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe has more on this....
The Pretoria Asset Forfeiture Unit of the National Prosecuting Authority has been granted a preservation order of over R4,3 million by the Pretoria High Court to freeze the bank account belonging to Piggy Farm Trading. It's believed the company is running a Ponzi Scheme, where individuals could purchase up to 50 virtual pigs at R2 750 each, in a digital metaverse pig farm. NPA says this is a contravention of the National Consumer Protection Act and the whole scheme appeared to be a fraud. Udo Carelse spoke to NPA's Gauteng Regional Spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana
In an effort to drive voter education ahead of the 2024 general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to be knowledgeable about. So, join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after election day. Today's focus is on the final list of parties and candidates to contest the 2024 elections, as well as applications for special votes from April 15 to May 3. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Chief Electoral Officer at the IEC, Mawethu Mosery....
Mossel Bay and Midvaal have been rated among the top municipalities in South Africa for financial sustainability, by ratings agency, Ratings Afrika's Municipal Financial Sustainability Index. According to the index, most municipalities across the country are in dire financial straits and are unsustainable, demonstrating a lack of proper oversight by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the respective provincial administrations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Principal at Ratings Afrika, Charl Kocks.
The uMkhonto WeSizwe Party has confirmed the sacking of its Youth Leader, Bonginkosi Khanyile from the position of National Coordinator of its Youth League. The MK party says his redeployment, including that of three other party members, namely Gaan Cibane, Thapelo Maisha and Gazuzu Nduli are strategic moves aimed at bolstering the party's efforts at achieving a two-thirds majority post the upcoming elections. SAFMNews ' Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MK party spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela.
Transport Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga says Gauteng e- tolls are now a thing of the past. She announced that from tomorrow, the 11th of April 2024, e-Tolls will be scrapped in Gauteng. South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) will allegedly also be able to borrow funding from National Treasury to substitute the funds generated by e-Tolls for road infrastructure. Minister Chikunga says all transactions that occurred prior to the 11th April 2024 are required to be paid, and will be billed accordingly. From the 12th April 2024 road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network. Take a listen to this SAFMNews extract from her speech during a media briefing held with various transport stakeholders on Wednesday.
The Hartbeespoort Residents Forum, in the North West, has expressed unhappiness with the poor service delivery in the area and has called for action to be taken against what they call the 'badly governed' Madibeng Municipality. The forum is leading the charge for Hartbeespoort, with a total of 38 wards, to get its own municipality, independent of Madibeng. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Secretary of the Hartbeespoort Residents Forum (HRF), Kokie Mashego.
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) is currently investigation the practices of Piggy Farm Trading. A company that markets "virtual pigs" as investment opportunities. This is as a result of concerns that Piggy Farm Trading may be running a multiplication scheme, exploiting unsuspecting investors. According to the company, participants can purchase between one and 50 pigs per annum at R2 200 per pig. Each pig gives its owner a minimum of R500 per month over a year as profit. However, skepticism surrounds the sustainability and legality of the returns offered by the company. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Company Secretary for the National Consumer Commission, Joseph Selolo.
Advocate Dali Mpofu (SC) has warned that the rights of former president, Jacob Zuma under Section 19 of the Constitution would be infringed if he were to be declared as ineligible to stand for public office. Mpofu is representing the Umkhonto weSizwe Party before the Electoral Court. The party is appealing the decision by the Independent Electoral Commission to uphold objections to the standing of former President, Jacob Zuma for public office under Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution. Section 47 states that anyone who is convicted of an offence and sentenced to more than 12 months imprisonment without the option of a fine is disqualified to stand for public office. Mpofu has lamented the attitude of the IEC towards the former President and says the exclusion of the former President would disenfranchise supporters of the party, Zuma and the MK party. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
At least one person has been killed in the Western Cape as heavy rains and gale-force winds continue to wreck havoc in the province. Provincial authorities have urged residents to be vigilant and avoid long trip travels. Some schools have been closed as trees have been uprooted, vehicles blown over and roofs blown off houses and buildings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Director for Disaster Management in the Western Cape, Colin Deiner.
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has approved guidelines for implementing load shedding up to stage 16. The regulator published the latest revision of the load shedding Code of Practice. The revision was developed by experts from Eskom, the Energy Intensive User Group, among others. They say the code aims to help Eskom and municipal distributors mitigate the impact of high load-shedding stages while preventing a grid collapse. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vally Padayachee, Chairman of the Management Committee of the National Rationalised Specifications Association of SA and began by asking him why there was a need to revise South Africa's load shedding guidelines.
In the build-up to the 2024 general elections, SABC News and SAFM Current Affairs are inviting political parties leaders to engage with their electorate in an open dialogue on some of the challenges faced by communities and what hopes they have for those they wish to elect into office, come May 29th 2024. This week, the team hosted a two hour long debate where the following political party representatives engaged with the community of eMalahleni: Mpumalanga ANC provincial executive committee (PEC) member, Ndumiso Mokako; EFF Nkangala regional command team/RCT member and PR councilor in the eMalahleni Local Municipality, Mahero Sekgala; DA Mpumalanga Provincial Leader, Jane Sithole; FF Plus Mpumalanga Provincial Leader, Werner Weber; Provincial Leader and Premier Candidate of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) in Mpumalanga, Pastor Mr. JJ Scholtz; African Transformation Movement (ATM) Women’s League National Executive Committee Member, Kedibone Ntumba and IFP Mpumalanga Provincial Spokesperson, Dr. Mthunzi Khumalo.
Corruption Watch (CW) says despite the presence of additional players in the anti-corruption space, the levels of corruption have not diminished. The organisation says if anything, more corruption is being exposed on a daily basis through the vigilance of the media, the bravery of whistle-blowers, and the concern of the public. Corruption Watch has just released its 12th annual corruption report today, titled Changing the Landscape. The corruption watchdog further says the 30 years of democracy has not delivered on the promise of an equal and just society, but instead have resulted in higher unemployment than ever before, rising levels of poverty and inequality, staggering levels of corruption and mismanagement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Acting Lead Coordinator for Stakeholder Relations and Campaigns at Corruption Watch, Melusi Ncala.
In an effort to drive voter education ahead of the 2024 general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to be knowledgeable about. So join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after election day. Today's focus is on unpacking the Code of Conduct as political parties and independent candidates will sign it tomorrow, Thursday 4 April 2024. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Chief Electoral Officer at IEC, Mawethu Mosery.
The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services, has resolved to cancel the process of interviewing candidates for the position of the Deputy Public Protector. It has described the process as tainted and open to possible litigation once completed. The decision was taken after Parliament's legal services advised the committee that the participation of EFF MP Busisiwe Mkhwebane in the process, has constituted a conflict of interest and bias. SABC reporter, Abongwe Kobokana has more
The Road Accident Fund has highlighted a huge number of beneficiaries being defrauded and deprived of their compensations. RAF spokesperson McIntosh Polela, says there have been almost a thousand reported cases of fraud during the 2023/24 Financial Year, with 417 cases referred to the South African Police Service. A recent case involves a 33-year old Vaal resident, who was swindled out of an approximately two million Rand settlement. SABC reporter, Monique Lewis has more.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have launched a manhunt for two suspects who escaped the gun battle in Mariannhill, west of Durban, this morning. Police shot and killed nine suspects wanted in connection with a series of violent crimes. It is alleged they had forced the owner out the property and had occupied nearby homes as well terrorised residents. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel, Robert Netshiunda ...
Former President and Mkhonto weSizwe Party leader, Jacob Zuma has until today to appeal an earlier decision by the Electoral Committee barring him from running as a candidate in the May 29 polls. The decision was taken following the public candidate list inspection process which took place last week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News senior politics reporter, Busi Chimombe.
Reactions continue to pour in following the decision by the High Court in Pretoria to strike off the roll an urgent application by the speaker of parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula aimed at interdicting her possible arrest. Mapisa-Nqakula, who was Minister of Defence from 2012 to 2021, is accused of receiving millions of rands in cash as bribes from a military contractor during her turnure. She has since denied any wrongdoing and approached the courts, demanding that she be allowed to have her legal representative present in case of her arrest. Meanwhile, African National Congress First Deputy General Secretary, Nomvula Mokonyane had this to say while on a campaign trail in Soweto, Johannesburg today.
Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter has emphasised that various tax compliance measures were invoked to collect revenue from non-compliant taxpayers in the 2023-24 financial year. Speaking during the announcement of the Preliminary Revenue Results for the 2023/24 financial year, Kieswetter said the service managed to collect R190-million in undeclared taxes from high net-worth individuals, while R850-million collected from lifestyle audits.
Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan continues to face huge criticism for threatening to take legal action against Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises. This comes after the committee that oversees his department, adopted a report which recommends that the failed SAA-Takatso deal be handed over to the Special Investigating Unit for further probing. The Democratic Alliance says Gordhan should not use public funds to fight parliament's processes while the EFF has questioned what Gordhan seeks to hide by attempting to block an investigation into the deal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Joseph Mosia.
The South African government is continuing to assist the government of Botswana to finalise processes of the repatriation of the 45 bodies of the people who perished in the bus crash in Limpopo. An 8-year old girl survived and is still receiving medical treatment in a hospital in Limpopo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena.
The South African Council of Churches has expressed its condolences to the families of the 45 people who lost their lives in a horrific bus accident in Limpopo at the begining of the Eater long weekend. Acting General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches, Rev Mzwandile Molo says the church grieves with those who lost their loved ones in the crash.
Motorists heading back to Gauteng after the long weekend are advised to expect increased traffic volumes on major routes, including the N1 and N3 highways. This as, holiday makers make their way back at the end of the Easter weekend. More than 2,000 vehicles per hour are expected to be heading towards Gauteng from tomorrow morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole who is joining us from the N1 after over twenty people lost their lives on the province's roads since the start of the Easter weekend.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Namibia's $10-billion green hydrogen project is being boosted by gaining special German government status.
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Southern African scientists are going abroad to gain greater insight into green hydrogen development in our region.
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The introduction of mechanical cutting in mining is bringing about a quicker return on investment.
Eskom is set to increase its electricity tariff on Monday by a whooping 12.74 per cent across the board. This was after the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) approved the electricity tariff hike for the 2024/25 financial year in January 2023. The South African Federation of Trade Unions has lambasted that this increase is above the inflation rate and will ultimately widen energy poverty. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAFTU national spokesperson, Trevor Shaku
Condolences continue to pour in for the deceased of the crash that happened on the Mamatlakala mountain pass between Mokopane and Marken last night. The passengers were travelling from Gaborone in Botswana to an Easter conference at the St Engenas Zion Christian Church in Moria outside Polokwane. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Koketso Moatu, Limpopo Provincial Government Spokesperson Ndavhe Ramakuela and Road Acciedent Fund's (RAF) Spokesperson McIntosh Polela...
The National Assembly has approved the Expropriation Bill as amended by the National Council of Provinces, by 205 votes to 108. Although not yet signed into law, the bill would allow for, in certain instances, 'nil compensation.' Head of Policy Reseach at the Institute of Race Relations, Dr Anthea Jeffrey has however sounded the alarm on the Bill insisting that the bill's provisions are at odds with the common law and pose a great risk to the country's economic well being. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Policy Reseach at the Institute of Race Relations, Dr Anthea Jeffrey and Acting Director at Ndifuna Ukwazi, Mpho Raboeane.
A shooting incident in KwaZulu-Natal's uMhlathuze Local Municipality has left two bodyguards dead. Police say the incident happened this morning at the municipal head office in Richards Bay. It has been reported that the two shot each other while officials were inside the building. For more on this we are joined on the line by uMhlathuze Local Municipality spokesperson, Bongani Gina.
In an effort to drive voter education ahead of the 2024 general elections, SABC News has partnered with the Independent Electoral Commission to bring you a new feature called Election Matters, where we will delve deeper into the processes you, as the voter, need to be know in the build up to the 29th of May 2024. Join the Elections Matter conversation every Wednesday from today, until the 22nd of May 2024, for a look at everything you need to know before and after election day. For a look at the three ballot papers you will find at your voting station and what each one means, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Chief Electoral Officer at IEC, Mawethu Mosery.
The Gauteng Provincial Office of the South African Human Rights Commission has today updated the public on some of the investigations it has recently conducted. The Commission has also received a memorandum from protesting members of the South African Communist Party (SACP) in Gauteng. They are today picketing outside the Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg, against comments made by the DA leader John Steenhuisen who referred to Gauteng's crime wardens, as drunkards who were wearing a uniform from PEP stores. The comments sparked public outrage, with some labelling his remarks as racially insensitive. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Zamantungwa Mbeki, SAHRC Gauteng Provincial Manager.
The African National Congress argued, through its legal counsel, that the Electoral Court does not have the jurisdiction to hear the matter relating to the infringement of the Trade Mark Act. Advocate Tshidiso Ramogale relied on the Electoral Commission Act in assessing the jurisdiction that the Electoral Court and the IEC have. The ANC has hauled the UmkhontoWesizwe party to court accusing it of being in violation of the Trade Marks Act by using the name and logo similar to that of the disbanded UmkhontoWesizwe military wing. Ramogale argues that the Durban High Court is the appropriate forum to ventilate the matter. This is an extract of what the court heard today.
The Information Regulator of South Africa (IRSA) says it plans to finalise its probe into the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) investigation before the national elections on 29 May 2024. Speaking to members of the media on Tuesday morning, the Information Regulator's Executive for the Protection of Personal Information, Advocate Tshepo Boikanyo revealed that the investigation is at an advanced stage and a preliminary report on the probe will be released soon. This follows an incident earlier this month which involved the unauthorised disclosure of political party candidate lists on social media. For more on this we are joined on the line by Executive Director for Education & Communications at the Information Regulator, Mukelani Dimba....
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande has confirmed the de-registering of four Educor Colleges. The department cancelled the registrations of Damelin, City-Varsity, Lyceum College and ICESA City Campus, for failure to submit annual financial reports, among other things. Nzimande addressed the media on the matter a short while ago.
Its been jubilation and ululations outside the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg as Mkhonto weSizwe Party supporters celebrate the news that the party will be allowed to contest in the upcoming May 29 national and provincial elections. This comes after the Electoral Court dismissed an application by the African National Congress to have the party, led by former president Jacob Zuma, removed from the ballot. Here is some of the MK Supporters outside court breaking in song upon hearing the court outcome...
The Democratic Alliance has announced its list of candidates for parliament ahead of the much anticipated 2024 general elections. The party says the candidates have successfully completed what it calls a rigorous 10-month process, which has led to those handpicked to represent the official opposition in parliament and legislatures across the the country. In announcing the candidates, DA leader, John Steenhuizen reiterated that contrary to some media report, he has also successfully completed the same 10-month process. Among the candidates unveiled by the DA are Kabelo Mogatosi, the former MMC for Roads in Nelson Mandela Bay Metro; Mark Burke, who holds a PhD in Econometrics from Cambridge and Khathutshelo Rasilingwane, who is the Deputy Chief Whip of the DA in Ekurhuleni.
Former head of legal at now collapsed Steinhoff International Holdings, Stéhan Grobler has been granted R150 000 bail by the Pretoria Specialised Crime Court, where he appeared today. Grobler spent the weekend behind bars, a day after his former colleague and former Steinhoff International Holdings CEO, Markus Jooste was reported to have taken his own life. The case is expected to resume again on the 26th of June 2024. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Economics Reporter, Mpumelelo Maphalala.
The urgent application launched by National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has been adjourned until 15:00 today. This, after Judge Sulet Potterill said she had no sight of the answering affidavit from the respondents. The Speaker's legal counsel is expected to respond to the affidavit when the case resumes. Mapisa-Nqakula launched the application seeking to interdict her arrest. She is accused of soliciting a bribe from a defence contractor amounting to millions of rand during her tenure as Defence Minister. SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe reports.
The case involving the fourth suspect in the disappearance of 6-year-old Joslin Smith has been postponed to the 13th of May to allow for further investigations. The Grade One learner from Middlepos Informal Settlement in Saldanha, on the Western Cape West Coast, has been missing for over a month. Thirty two-year-old Lourentia Lombard made a brief appearance at the Vredenburg Magistrate's Court on Monday, where she abandoned her bail application. Sakina Kamnwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli.
An 83-year-old man was brutally killed during a robbery at his homestead in Maphephethe in Inanda, north of Durban. Africa Khumalo lived with his visually impaired 82-year-old wife, who survived the attack unharmed. Member of the community of Maphephethe are pleading with authorities for assistance as they say the elderly have become soft targets for brutal criminals in the area. SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Mntungwa-Makamu filed this report.
The Manzini Magistrate's court in the Kingdom of eSwatini has postponed the case against Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande arrested in connection with the murder of Kiernan AKA Forbes and Tebello Motsoane. During their brief appearance, the prosecutor, Macebo Nxumalo confirmed that they have received the official extradition application from their South African counterpart. Meanwhile, the defense requested to be given time to go through the application as they received this morning. The two Ndimande brothers will appear again in the same court on 9th of next month. SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi filed this report from the Manzini Magistrate's court in the Kingdom of Eswatini
The fight against the spread of Tuberculosis (TB) has been thrust back into the spotlight following a march by more than 600 Gauteng-based TB activists affiliated with the NPO, Rural Health Advocacy Project. The group has called for better co-ordination and greater political priority if government aims to eradicate TB by the year 2030. The march comes a just days after the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute launched Phase 3 of a clinical trial to assess the efficacy of a TB vaccine which could potentially help prevent pulmonary TB in adolescents and adults. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to national principal investigator for the experimental vaccine called M72/AS01E (M72 for short)in South Africa, Dr Lee Fairlie.
The South African Council for Educators (SACE) says there has been an increase in reported cases of corporal punishment and sexual misconduct in schools. SACE is hosting roundtable discussions on the regulation of teacher behaviour in the education sector at the Protea Hotel in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni. The discussions are aimed at addressing challenges related to the regulation of educator behaviour and explore strategies for promoting coordinated regulation and accountability within the teaching profession. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane filed this report.
Opposition parties have once again called on National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula to resign. This follows a raid at her residence by the Hawks following corruption allegations against her. An SANDF contractor alleges Mapisa-Nqakula solicited bribes to the tune of two-point-three million rand from her, while she was Minister of Defence. The parties say the Speaker should step aside to preserve the dignity of parliament. SABC reporter, Joseph Mosia filed this report.
The High Court in Pietermaritzburg has dismissed former president Jacob Zuma's application to have lead prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer removed from Zuma's arms deal corruption case. Judge Nkosinathi Chili says he will give the reasons for his ruling at the end of the trial. Zuma suffered setbacks in both the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court in his bid to continue his private prosecution of Downer. SABC reporter, Dries Liebenberg filed this report.
Parliament's Public Enterprises Portfolio Committee has recommended that the transaction that saw Takatso Consortium appointed as the preferred bidder to acquire 51 percent of South African Airways be referred to the Special Investigating Unit. The committee says the department has not been able to successfully dispute the former Director-General KgathatsoTlhakudiallegation that Takatso was not part of the initial list of companies that submitted bids. The committee also feels that Tlhakudi's submission that SAA assets were undervalued was not disproved in light of the cancellation of the transaction that the Public Enterprises Minister PravinGordhan announced last week. Here is what Public Enterprises Committee Chairperson, Khaya Magaxa told the committee today....
The Bureau for Economic Research says inflation for the first quarter of 2024 has dropped, spelling good news for potential interest rates cuts. The Bureau notes that the average headline CPI inflation expectations of analysts, business people and trade union officials receded by 0.3% points for both 2024 and 2025. The respondents now expect inflation to average 5.4% this year, 5.3% next year and 5.2% in 2026. Sakina Kamwendo to Bureau for Economic Research, Nicolaas van der Wath.
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal inquiry into the conduct of Gauteng high court Judge Tshifhiwa Maumela has been postponed to May, after his legal team notified the tribunal that the judge has been hospitalised. The Tribunal is chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Chris Jafta as it investigates complaints lodged against Maumela by Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo regarding alleged excessive delays in handing down a significant number of his judgments. Maumela, who presided over the Senzo Meyiwa trial, has been suspended alongside Judge Nomonde Mngqibisa -Thusi, pending the outcome of the tribunal inquiry. Yesterday the tribunal heard how Maumela took almost 5 years to conclude a single judgment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole.
Counsel for the African National Congress ( ANC) has argued that there are only three grounds upon which the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) can entertain appeals by parties aggrieved with the registration of a political party. The ANC is at the Electoral Court in Bloemfontein today, challenging the registration of the UmkhontoWesizwe party. The MK party was registered in September last year and will contest the 2024 general elections. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Zoleka Qodashe
President Cyril Ramaphosa says projects worth nearly R170 billion are currently in procurement. Ramaphosa says Infrastructure South Africa is today publishing the first edition of a Construction Book that showcases 153 infrastructure projects across 5 major state-owned enterprises including Transnet Freight Rail, Transnet National Ports Authority, Airports Company South Africa, Eskom and SANRAL. Ramphosa was addressing the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium currently underway at the Century City convention centre, in Cape Town. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lufuno Ratsiku, President of The South African for the Project and Construction Management Professions.
The African National Congress is expected to head to the Electoral Court in Bloemfontein tomorrow to challenge the registration of the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP). The governing party argues that there were procedural flaws in the way the MKP was registered by the Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Mawethu Mosery. Zoleka Qodashe takes a look at the merits of the ANC's argument and its prospects of success.
The largest bulk water utility in Africa, Rand Water is pleading with Gauteng metros to manage water consumption by residents. The plea follows an emergency meeting between the water utility and metros in the province after Rand Water warned of what it calls critically low reservoirs levels. The utility provides bulk potable water to more than 11 million people in Gauteng, parts of Mpumalanga, the Free State and North West. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Rand Water spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo and Professor in the School of Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand, Craig Sheridan.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says since the dawn of democracy, government has shown its commitment to democracy, the rule of law and to the protection of human rights. He was speaking at the National Conference on 30 Years of Human Rights in Gauteng's eastrand. The three-day conference will see government officials as well as key stakeholders reflect on the work that has been done since South Africa's democratic dispensation. Ramaphosa outlines the pieces of legislation that have been passed that give effect to the Constitution.
The Senzo Meyiwa trial has adjourned until Wednesday at the High Court in Pretoria. This is to allow the state to call new witnesses. Five men are on trial for the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain, who was shot and killed in 2014. Meyiwa was at Kelly Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus, on Gauteng's East Rand. The state has been focusing on the alleged confessions by accused one and two. Pearl Magubane filed this report.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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One of South Africa's time-honoured gold mines is going to be listed on a stock exchange in the United States.
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A Toyota-linked company is on a mission to bring more hydrogen-based power to South Africa.
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South Africa's mining industry must be given a new ticket to ride to enable it to perform better.
The Senzo Meyiwa main trial has resumed in the high court in Pretoria. Yesterday the Judge ruled that in the trial within a trial the confessions allegedly made by accused number 1, Muzi Sibiya and accused 2, Bongani Ntanzi in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial within trial, were made freely and voluntarily. State prosecutor George Baloyi says he would now like to call to the main trial witnesses that had already taken the stand in the trial within a trial. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Pearl Magubane...
Former Department of Public Enterprises director-general Kgathatso Tlhakudi says Public Enterprises Minister Pravin should be held accountable for the failed SAA - takatso deal. Pravin Gordhan announced the termination of the Takatso Consortium's 51% takeover of South African Airways (SAA). Takatso said in its response to the announcement, that the magnitude and materiality of the proposed changes had made it clear that the transaction would possibly need to be re-submitted to the Competition Tribunal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to former Department of Public Enterprises director-general Kgathatso Tlhakudi, who was opposed to the deal during his time at the department...
It remains unclear what is behind the recent underwater cable outage. Telecommunication experts say it may even take up to weeks to locate and repair a cable break if that is the cause. This is as millions of South Africans have been battling with internet issues since Yesterday when multiple outages on undersea cables caused serious downtime. The affected cables include West Africa, parts of Europe and the Middle East. Vodacom has also confirmed that the undersea cable failures were affecting the country's network providers, including Vodacom, with customers experiencing intermittent connectivity issues. Sakina Kamwenso spoke to the founder and CEO of World Wide Worx, Arthur Goldstuck...
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa, NUMSA has accused Road Accident Fund CEO, Collins Letsoalo of being a law unto himself and a brutal employer. NUMSA spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola earlier today confirmed that their members are to return to work despite an earlier intention to embark on a national shutdown strike action. The union maintains that RAF, under Letsoalo continues to be mismanaged with extensive delays in processing payments and an unconducive working environment for the workers. For more on this we are now joined on the line by RAF spokesperson, McIntosh Polela.
Security experts are warning South Africans that cases of kidnappings have skyrocketed by 260% in the country over a decade – including those for ransom. Gauteng remains the hotspot province for Kidnappings followed by KwaZulu-Natal. The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) noted cases of kidnappings reported to the police in South Africa have almost quadrupled over the last ten years. While kidnapping for ransom reportedly make up only 5% of reported cases, they equate to about two people being kidnapped for ransom per day in the country. Experts say there is no specific profile of victims or kidnappers, adding that the ordinary man in the street is a target for criminals too, thus every member of the public needs to be vigilant at all times. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Specialist, Investigator Mike Bolhuis, who is an expert in the dealing with kidnapping cases.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says Cabinet supports the termination of the Takatso Consortium's 51% takeover of the South African Airways (SAA). Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan announced that the deal between SAA and Takatso Consortium was off. Takatso says it experienced immense political pressure in its attempt to acquire 51 percent in state owned airline SAA. Ntshavheni briefed the media on Thursday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises, Khaya Magaxa.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that the confessions allegedly made by accused number 1, Muzi Sibiya and accused 2, Bongani Ntanzi in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial within a trial, were made freely and voluntarily and can thus be admitted as evidence. The court has also found that Sibiya was not under duress when he pointed out evidence in the matter and that evidence will now be admitted as evidence in the main trial. Sibiya, Ntanzi and three others are currently on trial for the 2014 murder of the soccer star who was gunned down in the maternal home of his then girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo. Here is what Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng said in making his ruling.
Civil Society Group, My Vote Counts says the adoption of the Electoral matters Amendment Bill adopted by the National Assembly yesterday has detrimental consequences to the constitutional imperatives of transparency, openness, and accountability. This as opposition parties have threatened court action over the Bill as amendments to the Bill have amongst many issues changed the funding formula of how political parties and independents represented in legislatures receive allocations from public funds. This change outlines that 90 percent of funds would be based on proportional representation and only ten-percent on an equitable basis. For more on this we are now joined on the line by Senior Resercher at My Vote Counts, Joel Bregman
Northern KwaZulu-Natal residents have been warned to brace themselves for upcoming severe weather, with a Level 6 warning in place for parts of the province from today. This as as a tropical storm moves through the Mozambique Channel. The warning is said to be in effect for the Northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC Meteorologist, Azwi Tuwani.
The court case against three people accused of involvement in the disappearance of 6-year-old, Joslin Smith has been postponed to 13 May 2024 for further investigation and cellphone data to be obtained. The suspects face charges of trafficking in persons with the purpose of exploitation and kidnapping, after charges against a 4th suspect, Phumza Sigaqa, were withdrawn. The girl's mother, Kelly Smith and her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis are among those accused. Six year old Joslin who went missing three weeks ago has not yet been found. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Corbin August...
The high court sitting in Palm Ridge, on Gauteng's East Rand, has found 22-year-old self-confessed sex worker murderer, Sifiso Mkhwanazi guilty of the murder and rape of 6 sex workers. Mkhwanazi was arrested and admitted to killing the sex workers and hiding their bodies in his father's workshop in Johannesburg between April and October 2022. During Mkhwanazi's trial, the defense argued that he and the women engaged in consensual sex, alleging that he only murdered the sex workers in fear, after a disagreement over payment. Here is what Judge Cassim Moosa had to say when delivering his judgement.
A motion of no confidence against Ekurhuleni executive mayor, Sivuyile Ngondwana of the African Independent Congress, is expected to be heard in the Ekurhuleni Metro council today. The motion comes amid a row over the auditor-general's report into the city's finances, with council members accusing the mayor and MMC of Finance Nkululeko Dunga of hiding the report. ActionSA says it is confident that its motion will be successful. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Horisani Sithole
Protests earlier broke up in the eThekwini CBD as both the Economic Freedom Fighters and local hostel residents took to the streets over service delivery. The EFF used their own private vehicles to collect refuse pilling the streets while residential blockaded parts of the city with burning tyres. Residents say they have been without electricity for days due to the ongoing strike by eThekwini municipal workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabula Mntugwa-Makamu...
The Manzini Magistrate's Court in the Kingdom of eSwatini has postponed to March 20, the case against two brothers accused of involvement in the murders of South Africans Kiernan "AKA" Forbes and his friend Tebello "Tibz" Motsoane. Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande were arrested in the capital of Mbabane three weeks ago after Forbes and Motsoane were gunned down outside a restaurant in Durban in 2023. The Ndimande brothers are also accused of the killing two other people in KwaZulu-Natal between February and March in the same year. For more on this we now cross to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi, who joins us from outside the Manzini Magistrate's Court in the Kingdom of eSwatini...
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says while it regrets the unauthorised disclosure of the party candidate lists for the African National Congress (ANC) and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, the commission remains capable and credible enough to hold the upcoming 2024 general elections. The IEC earlier announced the dismissal of an employee linked to the leak of the names on the lists for both parties. Sakina Kamwendo earlier spoke to IEC Deputy Chief electoral officer, Mawethu Mosery.
The Inkatha Freedom Party says its 13-point-plan is best suited to tackle the triple challenges of crime, corruption and poverty in the country. The party launched its 2024 elections manifesto at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban at the weekend. The Party's deputy president, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi earlier caught up with SABC anchor, Leanne Manas to expand more on what he says is the country's hope for a better tomorrow. Inkosi Buthelezi says fighting crime remains one of the party's key priorities...
The defence counsel in the Senzo Meyiwa trial has once again told the High Court in Pretoria that none of the alleged confessions by two of the five men accused in the soccer star's murder, were obtained voluntarily. Sipho Ramosepele was making his closing submissions on evidence led in the trial within the trial where five men are accused of gunning down the Bafana Bafana player in Johannesburg in October 2014. The defence is challenging the admissibility of the alleged confessions by Muzi Sibiya and Bongani Ntanzi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
The alarming number of unemployed doctors has thrust South Africa's health system back into the spotlight. In his State of the Province Address, Free State Premier Mxolisi Dikwana announced that in January a total of 217 medical interns and community service professionals that include dieticians, radiographers, audiologists and physiotherapists were employed. Makgala Masiteng reports.
African National Congress secretary general, Fikile Mbalula says the party has full confidence in the credibility of the Independent Electoral Commission despite the leakage of the ruling party's national and provincial candidates' list on Friday. Mbalula was addressing members of the media from the party's headquarters, in Luthuli House in Johannesburg, on Monday. He says the party's lists is a mixture of young people, women with a touch of experience of its senior leaders. Mbalula explains further...
Suspended Judge, Tintswalo "Nana" Makhubele has requested an adjournment of the proceedings looking into her conduct. Makhubele is appearing before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal in a misconduct probe lodged by civic organisation, #UniteBehind. It alleges that she violated the separation of powers principle by being both a judge and Chairperson of state owned company, Prasa. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
The Freedom Front Plus has promised to eradicate corruption, do away with cadre deployment and affirmative action, fix poor service delivery, as well as to restore reliable electricity supply. The party says after thirty years of the current government driving the country to the edge of ruin, the country needs a new dispensation. It also wants a recognition of group rights, promotion of independent communities, restoration of identity and protection of culture and diversity. Sakina Kamwendo earlier caught up with Freedom Front Plus Leader, Dr Pieter Mulder.
Township business owners and street vendors in Cape Town, Western Cape, are reportedly operating in fear following a rise in syndicates demanding 'protection fees' from them. According to reports, a salon owner was shot dead at his place of business in Philippi, allegedly for refusing to pay protection money. Sakina Kamweno spoke to Secretary of the Nyanga Community Policing Forum Dumisani Qwebe
Western Cape Police say they will continue to monitor the situation in Wellington, in the Cape Winelands, where a large group of foreign nationals who fled from their homes earlier this week due to safety concerns, have been reintegrated into the community. The foreign nationals were moved to a community hall following threats by community members after a murder occurred in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ward 5 Councillor in the Drakenstein Municipality Thobani Mooi
The newly established Labour party, aligned to AMCU has approached the Gauteng High Court to force the IEC to extend today's deadline for submissions of all required documents. This includes close to 60 thousand signatures for new parties and an election deposit of 750 thousand rands, which has to be paid by all parties. The Labour Party also contends that without this interdict it seeks through the court, the elections will not be free and fair. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Labour Party's secretariat, Krister van
The National Taxi Alliance has threatened to escalate the taxi strike in Ekurhuleni to a national shutdown, should the authorities fail to meet its demand. This as Scores of taxi commuters in Ekurhuleni were left stranded this morning due to a taxi strike. The NTA says the bus contracts issued in Ekhuruleni, do not reflect the entire taxi industry's stance on the aspect of it being accorded a stake in the issuance of a contract along routes it operates and have nurtured all the years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Taxi Alliance Spokesperson, Theo Malele
The ongoing strike by municipal workers in the eThekwini Municipality has begun to severely impact public healthcare facilities in KwaZulu-Natal. A number of facilities around the province have reported challenges in daily operations, as the wage strike by members affiliated with the South African Municipal Workers' Union rages on. Doctors and nurses at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital says they are battling without electricity for a third day, with community clinics in Hambanathi and Craigieburn having been forced to close their doors due to protestors blocking the roads and intimidating staff. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
The state in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has continued with its bid to persuade the judge to allow alleged confession statements by the accused to be submitted as evidence. Five men are currently on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain, who was shot and killed while at the maternal home of his then girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo. The defence is challenging the admissibility of confession statements allegedly made by accused number 1 and 2. For more SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
The case of the four suspects who were brought in for questioning in relation to the disappearance of six-year-old, Joslin Smith has been postponed to the 13th of March for bail application. The Grade 1 learner disappeared from her home in Saldanah Bay, on the West Coast, on the 19th of February. Search operations involving her local community of Diazville, the police and the navy have yielded no positive results as yet. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NPA spokesperson in the Western Cape, Eric Ntabazalila
The details about the sale of South African Airways (SAA) for R51 to the Takatso Consortium are on the spotlight again in Parliament. This as the portfolio committee on Public Enterprises is expected to decide whether the documents on the SAA-Takatso deal can be made available to the public. There have been reports of tensions between Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan and Parliament's Public Enterprises Portfolio Committee over the SAA - Takatso deal. Committee members are investigating Takatso's selection as the preferred equity partner to own a majority stake in the airline. The demand follows allegations of corruption and mismanagement surrounding SAA's sale. Takatso won the 51% stake in SAA just six weeks after the airline emerged from its business rescue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC parliamentary reporter, Abongwe Kobokana.
Terror is continuing to reign in Ratanda township in Heidelberg, in Gauteng as members of the Ratanda Spaza Business Forum have allegedly gone into hiding to escape assassins who have killed four of their colleagues in just over a month. Members of the Forum have come under fire after the organization played a vital role in reallocating dozens of spaza shops to various community members. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Editor on an online publication, Scrolla Africa, Everson Luhanga, who has been following this story very closely
The Founder of the Western Cape Missing Persons Unit, Candice van der Rheede has warned political parties against using the disappearance 6-year-old, Joslin Smith for political gain. This follows a massive search operation involving various police units, the navy, and community members that has been underway for the past two weeks. van der Rheede says while it is important to shine a light on this matter, the cases of other missing children should also be getting the same attention. She spoke to Sakina Kamwendo on the of missing children in the Western Cape, which she says has been a long standing a problem.
A group of concerned community members have begun a splinter search for missing six-year-old, Joslin Smith of Saldanha Bay, in the Western Cape. Joslin went missing over two weeks ago after her mother left her in the care of the mother's boyfriend. Today's search is along Tabak Bay Beach where a shoe was picked up early this week. Four people have been taken in for questioning in relation to her whereabouts. Community member, Vernon Vraagom, is leading the search on the beach, and says the community initiated the search following the alleged discovery of a blue flip-flop. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Diazville, in Saldanah Bay, Mlamli Maneli.
Members of the Diazville community in the Western Cape have vowed to intensify their search for missing six-year-old, Joslin Smith from Saldanah Bay. This follows a recent announcement by police that they have taken people in for questioning, adding that the investigation into Joslin disappearance has gained momentum and that arrests are imminent. Joslin went missing over two weeks ago and speculation has been rife on social media platforms with local authorities pleading for calm and for people to stop spreading false news around the incident. SABC News reporters in Saldanha Bay earlier caught up with PR councilor, Vernon Vraagom ahead of a planned search to a nearby beachfront.
Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe says South Africa's energy challenges are much bigger than load shedding. The minister went on to say that the country must use a combination of technologies to eliminate energy poverty. Mantashe was addressing the Africa Energy Indaba Conference at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
The case against two men arrested in connection with the 2023 murders of South African rapper, Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and his friend, Tebello "Tibz' Motsoane has been postponed pending the lodging of a formal extradition application. Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande made a brief appearance in the Manzini Magistrate's Court in the Kingdom of eSwatini this morning, where they were remanded in custody until next week Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi.
Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen says private sector partnerships create jobs, competition, drive prices down and create efficiency within government. Steenhuisen was defending his party's manifesto position on state ownership versus private-public partnership within state entities such as Eskom, Prasa and Denel. As one of the party's seven pillars, Steenhuisen told Sakina Kamwendo that private involvement in state owned entities will get the economy going again.
South Africa's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased by a mere 0.1% in the forth quarter of 2023. That is according to figures released by Statistics South Africa on Tuesday, which found that leading contributing industries to the marginal growth were Finance, Real Estate, business services with transport and communication recording the biggest increase of 2.9% in the fourth quarter which equates to 0.2 of a percentage point to GDP growth. Exports of goods and services increased by 0,6 percent, largely influenced by increased trade in prepared foodstuffs, beverages and tobacco; vegetable products; chemical products; and base metals and articles of base metals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Statistician-General of South Africa, Risenga Maluleke.
A meeting has been schedule to take place today between the National Director of Public Prosecutions in the Kingdom of eSwatini and the legal representative of the two men arrested in connection with the murder of South African rapper, Kiernan " AKA" Forbes and Tebello Motsoane. Siyabonga Ndimande and Malusi Ndimande are reportedly also wanted by authorities following their alleged involvement in the murder of two other people in Durban between February and March last year. The two are expected to appear before the Manzini Magistrate's court tomorrow. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi, who is in eSwatini ahead of the court appearance of the accused.
African National Congress Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula says the party is looking into matters of integrity and allegations regarding members who will be considered of the official ANC list possibly headed to parliament. Mbalula was speaking on the sidelines of a ANC National Executive Council meeting which convened in Boksburg, Johannesburg to finalise the party's candidate lists ahead of Friday's deadline set by the Electoral Commission of South Africa. Mbalula elaborates on issues related to the party official list.
Police continue with the search of missing six-year-old, Joslin Smith from Saldanah Bay in the Western Cape. Joslin has been missing since February 19 and the Grade 1 Diazville Primary School learner was last seen wearing a light blue T-shirt and light blue denim shorts. She has a birthmark on her right arm. Police say various people had been interviewed in an effort to trace the child, but thus far without success. Sakina Kamwendo spokes to provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Novela Potelwa.
President of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Mzwanele Nyhontso says his party will decolonise the judicial system and make it relevant and applicable to the African conditions. He was speaking at his party's 2024 Elecltion Manifesto launch in Soweto on Saturday. Nyhontso says the legal and judicial system must reflect African culture, moral values and punishment methods. Thousands of party members, representatives of fraternal parties including Azapo and the ATM and its former President Letalapa Mphahlele, attended the launch. SABC Political Reporter, Ntebo Mokobo was there and filed us this report.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board and Executive Management led by the Acting Chairperson, Professor Lourens Van Staden has briefed members of the media in relation to progress for student funding for the 2024 academic year. This includes feedback on payment of student allowances, and the student accommodation pilot project for the 2024 academic year. Professor Lourens Van Staden highlights some of the key points.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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A big new R7-billion gold mining project received the go-ahead this week.
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Strong steps were taken this week to make seagoing ships cleaner and greener.
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Two huge wind and sun energy projects were given the go-ahead in South Africa this week.
The National Consumer Commission has called on all peanut butter manufacturers to start testing their products. Earlier this month, various stores had to recall their peanut butter product from their stores, because of elevated levels of aflatoxin which may cause harm to humans. It appears that many others may be affected. Today we would like to understand what "aflatoxin" is and how it affects us if we consume it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Owner/Director of Nandhi Solutions which specializes in food Quality and Safety Regulations, Cindy Moodley,
The Department of Public Enterprises says it will not allow anyone to tarnish its work and falsely imply there's any attempt by the department not to be transparent about any issue involving public trust. The Auditor General raised concern with the Public Enterprises Committee that she had not received the report on the revised valuation of SAA's assets. There have been reports of tensions between Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan and Parliament's Public Enterprises Portfolio Committee over the SAA - Takatso deal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chartered Accountant and Independent Analyst Khaya Sithole
Human trafficking remains a major concern in the Northern Cape. In an attempt to address this, Hawks in Kimberley are embarking on a campaign to raise awareness about increasing cases of Human Trafficking. The Northern Cape is plagued with alarming human trafficking cases that the province now feels need special attention. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe; Communications Officer at the Hawks in the Northern Cape...
SABC News has been inundated with complaints from listeners over delays in the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) payments, over a month into the 2023 academic year. This, as students at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) in KwaZulu-Natal have been protesting, citing concerns over registered students who have not been allocated accommodation as they have not having received their NSFAS allowances. Students at the East Cape Midlands College in Makhanda have also been protesting over NSFAS' decision to pay 90% of their accommodation allowance to their landlords, rather than directly into their own accounts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi.
Transnet has two new Senior Executives. Public enterprises minister Pravin Gordhan has appointed Michelle Phillips as Transnet's new Group CEO and Nosipho Maphumulo as the chief financial officer (CFO). According to Minister Gordhan, these are critical appointments which represent Transnet's steadfast commitment to equip the entity with an experienced executives leadership team to drive the strategic interventions that the board has put in place as part of the Transnet recovery plan. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Heavy vehicle Transport technology Africa, Dr Paul Nordengen.
The Durban magistrate's court has postponed the case of five of the suspects linked to the murder of rapper Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and his friend, Tebello 'Tibz' Motsoane to the sixth of March. The five men are facing ten counts - which includes the two charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms. The five are Lindokuhle Mkhwanazi, Lindani Ndimande, Siyanda Eddie Myeza , Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabini and Lindokuhle Ndimande. Kiernan's father, Tony Forbes spoke to members of the media on the sidelines of the court appearance by the accused, where he said the family is still struggling to come to terms with AKA's death.
The eThekwini municipality has urged law enforcement agencies not to tolerate acts of lawlessness and criminality during what the metro has called an unauthorised march by some of its municipal workers. About 500 employees have downed tools in the city and marched to the CBD as they demand better salaries and better working conditions. The march comes after municipal spokesperson, Gugu Sisalana told SABC News that workers affiliated with the South African Municipal Workers Union had earlier requested permission for a meeting management between 12 and 2 this afternoon. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu
A children's care center in Vosloorus is on the verge of shutting down unless it receives funding from government. Dzulani Children's Care Center has been a registered NPO since 2017. Children placed at the centre are brought in by social workers by order of the court. However, the centre has not received any funding from government and none of the children have been approved for social grants. SABC's Kelebogile Botlholo reports.
Seven suspects have been arrested in connection with with the murders of Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and Tebello 'Tibs' Motsoane are expected to appear in court tomorrow. KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has confirmed the arrest. Forbes and Motsoane were killed in Durban in February last year. Mkhwanazi and Police Minister, Bheki Cele, briefed the media in Durban. Police say authorities cannot rule out the possibility of more arrests.
Sasfin Bank has refuted claims made against it by the South African Revenue Service, saying the claims have no merit and will be defended. This comes after SARS Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter confirmed that following a probe, the entity has served the bank with a civil summons to the value of R4.87 billion. The sum includes interest and costs in the form of damages claim from SARS. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Economist, Dale Mckinley.
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and his department are currently briefing Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on a range of issues including the establishment of the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel, the progress made by the Border Management Authority and matters relating to the Independent Electoral Commission. During his presentation to the committee, Motosaledi said plans are in motion in preparation for a smooth voting day on the 29th May 2024.
KwaZulu-Natal has recorded the highest number of rhinoceroses poached in the year 2023. This was revealed by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy on Tuesday as she briefed the nation on the latest rhino poaching statistics. During her presentation, Creecy revealed that for the period in question, a total of 499 rhinos were poached across South Africa, with the KwaZulu-Natal's Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park facing the brunt of poaching cases, losing 307 of the total national poaching loss. Here is Minister Creecy expanding further.
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse ( OUTA) has reiterated that it will continue with its plan to defend motorists who receive a summons from SANRAL for outstanding e-toll debt. This follows comments by Mampho Modise, deputy director-general of public finance at National Treasury, Mampho Modise, that the Gauteng Provincial Government still plans to collect the e-toll debt from motorists. Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi announced during his State of the Province Address that Etolls will officially be switched off from the 31st of March. For more on this, we are joined on the line by OUTA'S Executive Director: Accountability and Public Governance Division Adv. Stefanie Fick
The Democratic Alliance's Shadow Minister for Public Service and Administration, Leon Schreiber says the party is taking further legal action against the African National Congress. The DA claims the ANC has failed to produce all records on its cadre deployments.
The Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services is hosting a two-day conference to strengthen the criminal Justice system, through the Integrated Criminal Justice System and the Review of the 1977 Criminal Procedure Act. The objective of the conference is to take stock of and reflect critically on the progress in the implementation of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) 7-Point Plan. This conference will also provide a platform for robust engagements on the criminal justice system. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to national spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services, Crispin Phiri.
Deputy director-general of public finance at National Treasury, Mampho Modise, has revealed that the Gauteng Provincial Government still plans to collect the e-toll debt from motorists. Modise confirmed this in an interview with online publication, Moneyweb following an announcement by Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi that E-tolls will officially be switched off from the 31st of March 2024. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to contributor at Moneyweb, Roy Cokayne.
The IEC is briefing the media shortly on the state of readiness for the upcoming 2024 general elections. The briefing follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement and subsequent gazetting of the election date. During the briefing, the Commission will unpack key aspects of the Elections Timetable, which will include the certification of the voters' roll, the publication of voting station details, the submission of candidate nominations and applications for special votes amongst other issues. IEC Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo had this to say.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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The world's first woman-owned phosphate mine is scheduled to be opened in South Africa this year.
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The Department of Mineral Resources and the IDC have launched a fund to help junior miners to explore.
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Power aggregators are emerging fast to accelerate South Africa's transition to clean electricity.
The East London Regional Court has sentenced Enyobeni Tavern Owners, Siyakhangela and Vuyokazi Ndevu to a fine of five thousand rands each or 100 days in prison. They were found guilty of selling or supplying intoxicating liquor to persons under the age of 18 years. The tavern based at Scenery Park in East London, made headlines in 2022 after 21 young people mysteriously died inside the tavern. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Sidima Mfeku..
The Secretary General of the African National Congress, Fikile Mbalula has lambasted the Democratic Alliance for the opposition party's attempt to have the courts declare the ruling party's long-standing policy of cadre deployment, unconstitutional. Speaking during a media briefing in eThekwini ahead of the party manifesto launch at the Moses Mabhinda Stadium in Durban, Mbalula has accused the DA of fighting transformation in the guise of constitutionality.
The Executive Mayor of Mangaung Metro in the Free State province, Gregory Nthatisi says the municipality will probe further into allegations of corruption relating to ghost employees within the metro. Nthatisi says harsh measures will be taken in dealing with the matter following a report that has revealed that municipality has been paying bogus workers who have never worked a single day. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Executive Mayor of Mangaung Metro, Gregory Nthatisi on how the issue came to light.
With the announcement of the election date of May 29 by President Cyril Ramaphosa and the date likely to be promulgated in the next few days, it is full steam ahead for the elections, one of the biggest stories for the year. The 2024 Elections coincide with South Africa's celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy. The public broadcaster is mandated to deliver on the event. Earlier on I caught up with the SABC Group Executive for News and Current Affairs Moshoeshoe Monare to explain SABC News' election rollout plans and shows....
Members of the South African Federation of Trade Union are expected to march from the Cape Town CBD to Parliament ahead of 2024 Budget Speech by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana. The federation has echoed growing calls for Godongwana not to announce budget cuts during his budget speech. This is his final budget speech before the dissolution of the sixth Parliament, ahead of the 2024 general elections. SAFTU says austerity measures continue to deepen inequality, poverty and unemployment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAFTU general secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi
The National Assembly is set to vote on the proposed impeachment of suspended Judge President John Hlophe and retired judge Nkola Motata this afternoon. This after the Western Cape High Court dismissed an urgent court application for an interim interdict sought by Hlophe, against the voting impeachment process, pending the outcome of the review application he has since submitted at the Constitutional Court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Parliament, Abongwe Kobokana.
The South African Ambassador in the Netherlands, Advocate Vusimuzi Madonsela, says the delay in ending the illegal occupation of Palestine by Israel has resulted in the cycle of violence. Madonsela has told the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that the occupation has lasted for over 50 years in defiance of international law. South Africa and at least 50 other countries and several international organisations are taking part in the public hearings in The Hague, as the UN General Assembly seeks an advisory opinion from the World Court on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. Madonsela highlighted the importance of the occasion.
The official unemployment rate was at 32,1 % in the fourth quarter of 2023. According to data released by Statistics South Africa, the unemployment rate among the Black African population group remains higher than the national average and other population groups, at 36,1%. This as, Anglo American Platinum has announced that it is set to cut three-thousand-700 jobs in South Africa as the mining company attempts to improve performance. Amplats says it aims to cut jobs after a sharp drop in platinum metal prices, which had led to a collapse in profits last year. We are now joined on the line by Labour Lawyer and Analyst Michael Bagraim
The City of Johannesburg's Member of the Mayoral Committee on Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku has confirmed that authorities are investigating an incident which saw a group of between 5 and 10 gun wielding robbers robbing motorists on city's M1 highway, this morning. Residents who witnessed the incident began sharing accounts of what they were seeing on social media platforms. The following insert was sent this morning by a concerned motorist who was desperately warning motorists against the use of the route and calling for emergency personnel to intervene as the robberies were in progress.
The International Court of Justice at the Hague is from today until the 26th of February holding public hearings on the request for an advisory opinion in respect of the Legal Consequences arising from the Policies and Practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. 52 States and three international organizations have expressed their intention to participate in the oral proceedings before the Court. Palestinians Foreign Affairs, minister, Al Maliki made submission to the International Court of Justice. He called on the court that it must declare Israel's occupation as illegal and it must end.
An inmate at the Mangaung Correctional Center managed by G4S in Bloemfontein has told SABC News that G4S wants to shed as many long term employees as possible before its contract with the Department of Correctional Services comes to an end. In an exclusive interview inmate - Zwelinzima Nquru alleges that top officials are involved in a money for jobs syndicate, soliciting protection fees from inmates and an elaborate sex ring, allegedly intended to shed the number of officials who have long service. SABC reporter, Kamogelo Seekoei has more.
The Change Starts Now Movement is expected to unveil its election manifesto in Kliptown, Soweto. The movement, initiated in December 2023, aims to serve as an alternative political option for South Africans seeking change. The party says it will share with South Africans how it plans on ending load shedding, fight unemployment and combat crime. SABCNews reporter, Natasha Phiri earlier caught up with party member and human rights and social activist, Mark Heywood.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has given the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) the go-ahead to probe allegations of maladministration in the issuance of visas and other official documents by the department of home affairs. According to a proclamation issued by Ramaphosa on Friday, the SIU will also investigate allegations of improper conduct by some officials in the department's ranks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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BMW this week put the first fleet of green-hydrogen cars on to South African roads.
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Research began this week bring more of South Africa's magical metals into the hydrogen economy.
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A high-profile delegation from Japan is in South Africa to study joint green hydrogen development opportunities.
Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu is in KwaZulu Natal today where he is conducting another visit to Phoenix and Verulam to assess measures put in place to improve water supply. Communities in these areas have been experiencing severe water shortages. Yesterday, the eThekwini Municipality missed the deadline to restore water. Minister Mchunu committed the residents last Sunday to resolve the water supply challenges by 15 February 2024. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Director-General at the Department of Water and Sanitation, Dr Sean Phillips
Defence analyst, Thomas Mandrup says the South African government needs to explain why South Africa has chosen to get involved in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This comes after two South African National Defence Force members were killed and three others wounded in a mortar attack at an SA military base in the region on Wednesday. On Monday the Presidency confirmed that 2 900 SANDF members were ordered to join the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC to support and assist the government in its effort to bring peace, security and stability in its warring eastern region. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo, . Mandrup added that the deaths of the soldiers exposes the risks involved with this mission.
Two members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have been killed in a mortar attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Defence Force says three others sustained injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital in Goma for medical treatment. Two-thousand-900 troops were deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) to support and assist the government in its effort to bring peace, security and stability in its warring eastern region. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in the DRC, Chris Ocamringa.
Two members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have been killed in a mortar attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Defence Force says three others sustained injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital in Goma for medical treatment. Two-thousand-900 troops were deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) to support and assist the government in its effort to bring peace, security and stability in its warring eastern region. SANDF spokesperson, Siphiwe Dlamini spoke to the SABC's Unathi Batyashe.
Councillors of the troubled Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality in North West are demanding a report into the R38-million shack call centre to be released. The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on the Premier, Finance, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, recently summoned the Dr Mompati Municipality seeking answers regarding the call centre. Councillors say the call centre is useless and not beneficial to the community. It is alleged that the municipality is paying almost R300 000 for eight Lenovo desktops, more than half a million for car radios in the emergency vehicles and the just over R300 000 for handheld walkie-talkies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Aaron Motswana, the Chairperson of North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Premier, Finance, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs.
A special council meeting to possibly dissolve the eThekwini Municipality is currently ongoing at the Durban International Convention Centre. The Democratic Alliance in the metro hopes to unseat the coalition government of the ANC and the EFF which is also supported by smaller political parties. Two weeks back the metro's mayor Mxolisi Kaunda survived a vote of no confidence brought by the IFP while In February 2023, Kaunda survived another vote of no confidence. Local residents have also been up in arms over service delivery issues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter on this story, Fanele Mhlongo.
City of Tshwane Executive Mayor, Cilliers Brink says there has been a delay in capital spending in the metro, due to tighter controls put in place to prevent irregular and wasteful expenditure. Brink was responding to news that the National Treasury has written a formal letter to the City, threatening to withdraw over six hundred million rand, because of the City's underperformance and noncompliance with the integrated urban development grants. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tshepo Mahlangu- President of LASCA, a Tshwane-based ratepayers advocacy group.
Cross-examination of accused number 2 in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, Bongani Ntanzi, continues today. On Friday he testified that he never confessed to any involvement in the killing of the soccer star. He told the High Court in Pretoria that he only signed papers after his alleged confession on the 24th of June 2020 because he wanted a phone call and a bath. This as the trial within a trial to determine the admissibility of alleged confessions by Ntanzi and accused number 1, Muzi Sibiya, continues. Our reporter Pearl Magubane sent us this report...
The African National Congress has four days to furnish the Democratic Alliance with records of the ruling party's cadre deployments. This follows a judgement by the Constitutional Court which upheld an earlier ruling for the ANC to hand over its records to the opposition party within five days, from yesterday. The DA has welcomed the decision by the apex court, adding that it marks one of the great victories in South African legal and democratic history. The question of the existence of such a list arose at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in 2021, when President Cyril Ramaphosa referred to a lack of record keeping within the ruling party.
The South African Poultry Association has expressed concern following the Competition Commission's decision to probe allegations of anti-competitive practices in the poultry sector. In its statement, the Commission stated that a poultry market inquiry into the industry can complement other initiatives to improve the competitiveness of the industry to the benefit of consumers and smaller participants. Sebenzile Nkabule spoke to Izaak Breitenbach, General Manager of the Broiler Organisation at the South African Poultry Association.
The community of Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality is up in arms after the municipality allegedly spent R9.7-million for the construction of Nogqala Bridge, near Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape. According to community members, the project has been marred by endless discrepancies and does not justify the amounts of money spent on it thus far. Construction of the bridge is said to have started in September 2021, following a need for locals to travel between the village and nearby clinics and schools. During rainy seasons, most children in the local primary school are forced to stay home, with high school learners forced to rent places closer to the school. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Vuyani Mqayi, a community member who lives in Mnyolo village in the Eastern Cape near where the unfinished bridge is situated.
The Constitutional Court has dismissed with costs the African National Congress final bid to appeal the ruling ordering it to hand over its cadre deployment records to the Democratic Alliance. The governing party turned to the apex court after the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein dismissed with costs the ANC's application for leave to appeal in September last year. The SCA cited "no reasonable prospects of success". Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga.
More peanut butter brands have been withdrawn from sale at Pick n Pay, alongside those sold at Dischem, Clicks, Faithful to Nature and other health shops. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has alerted the public that more peanut butter brands have been affected by the recall announced at the start of the month. These include Dischem's Lifestyle 400g Smooth and Crunchy, Dischem's Lifestyle 800g Smooth and Crunchy, Wazoogles Superfoods (all sizes), Pick n Pay's No Name 1kg smooth and Eden All Natural. The commission has advised the public to immediately stop consuming these products and return them to the store they bought them from for a full refund, with or without proof of purchase. Sebenzile Nkambule spokesperson Acting Commissioner at the National Consumer Commission, Thezi Mabuza.
Unemployed medical doctors in KwaZulu-Natal have marched to the offices of the provincial Health Department in Pietermaritzburg, voicing their concerns over the lack of employment opportunities for medical graduates. Last week, Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla said his department does not have the budget to employ all medical graduates in the public sector. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to unemployed doctor at the march, Dr Mduduzi Mbatha.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Water was highlighted as the world's number-one commodity at this week's Mining Indaba.
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Criminal syndicates disrupting railway lines have been positively identified, this week's Coal Conference heard.
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Stopping noise-induced hearing loss is now the top health priority of South Africa's mining industry.
Africa Check launched an initiative to check whether South Africa's president has kept his word on infrastructure, development and education, during his state of the nation address. It says Ramaphosa made seven promises on the power utility Eskom, state logistics company Transnet, road infrastructure, digital migration and more. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Africa Check Deputy-Chief Editor Cayley Clifford
The National Empowerment Fund says the government needs to focus sharply on entrepreneurship and SME development. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Zama Khanyile, Divisional Executive for Venture Capital and Corporate Finance at the NEF...
The Economic Freedom Fighters will launch its much anticipated National Manifesto tomorrow in Durban, KwaZulu Natal. Last night, all EFF members of Parliament boycotted the State of the Nation Address in parliament, following a ruling by the Western Cape High Court which dismissed an application by the party's six MPs including leader Julius Malema, to have their suspension interdicted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF national spokesperson Sinawo Tambo
Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has encouraged South Africans to actively engage with this year's State Of The Nation Address proceedings. In the build up to the address by President Cyril Ramaphosa, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema said he was not expecting much from President Cyril Ramaphosa's SONA. Malema was addressing students in Pietermaritzburg ahead of the party's manifesto launch this weekend in Durban. On Thursday, the party confirmed it will challenge the Western Cape High Court's decision to suspend 6 of its members of parliament, including Malema, from participating in this year's SONA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a number guests ahead of the address including, Senior Economist at the Alternative Information & Development Centre, Dr. Dick Forslund and Political Analyst, Asanda Ngoasheng.
South Africa currently has about R4.5 billion in unclaimed assets, and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) is seeking to launch a nationwide initiative to match claimants with their unclaimed monies. Following the issuance of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority's (FSCA) discussion paper in 2022, the pressing issue of unclaimed financial assets in South Africa was brought to the fore. This includes unclaimed dividends among South African investors. According to a recent discussion paper, FSCA, there is an estimated R88.56 billion worth of unclaimed assets across the financial sector. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of the Supervisory Frames Department at Financial Sector Conduct Authority, Loraine van Deventer.
The inventor of the Please Call Me service, Nkosana Makate says he is relived that the Supreme Court of Appeals has ordered certain costs to be paid out by cellular network giant Vodacom over the prolonged court impasse between the two parties. Yesterday, the SCA ordered Vodacom to make a new offer to Makate over his creation of the Please Call Me Service. Initially, Vodacom offered Makate a payout of 47 Million rands, however, his legal team rejected this offer and calculated that based on a five percent share of an estimated 205-Billion rand in revenue over 18 years, his new share could equate to an estimated 20-Billion rand in compensation, with interest. Earlier, Sakina Kamwendo caught up with Makate and he started by explaining the cost factor against Vodacom.
Electricity Minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says nearly three-thousand megawatts that will be recovered to the Eskom grid by the end of this year, easing the levels of blackouts. Ramokgopa was conducting an oversight visit at Koeberg Nuclear Power Stattion in Cape Town. He anticipates that Eskom will not raise to higher levels the stages of load shedding. SABC reporter, Thandiswa Mawu has more.
Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts has received an update from the Department of Higher Education regarding investigations into the National Skills Fund investigation and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. The forensic investigation was commissioned at the committee's insistence and direction, following disclaimer audit opinions from the Auditor-General for the 2019 / 2020 and the 2020/2021 financial years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Parliament, Lulama Matya.
The Democratic Alliance has delivered its alternative State of the Nation Address, with party leader John Steenhuisen making a presentation in Sandton, Johannesburg. Steenhuisen accused President Ramaphosa of publicly refusing to act against the Deputy President Paul Mashatile, despite alarming evidence of systemic corruption.
The ross-examination of accused number one in the Senzo Meyiwa Trial, Muzi Sibiya, has resumed in the trial-within-a-trial at the High Court in Pretoria. Sibiya and four others have been charged with the murder of the Bafana Bafana captain who was shot and killed in October 2014. The defence is challenging the admissibility of confession statements allegedly made by Sibiya and accused number two, Bongani Ntanzi. Yesterday, Sibiya told the court that he was forced to sign a confession statement to save his own life. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
Parliament says its all systems go for the 2024 State of the National Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday evening. Speaker of parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula addressed the media a short while ago where she revealed that parliament has adopted a new set of joint rules that are designed to regulate proceedings during joint sittings of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, with the primary aim of maintaining order, decorum in the Chamber, and promoting civility among members. Mapisa-Nqakula explains the new set of rules...
A group of parents and learners from Mahikeng, in the North West, have marched to the district offices of the Department of Basic Education demanding solutions to overcrowded schools. The parents say their children have not yet been placed for the 2024 academic year and are seeking assistance from authorities to ensure that every child has access to quality education. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to one of the aggrieved parents, Mmoloki Mokomele.
The Khulumani Support Group has accused the Justice Department led by Minister Ronald Lamola of redirecting funds contributed by European countries for the purpose of victim redress and rehabilitation. The group says it campaigns for truth, healing, and redress for those damaged through the history of apartheid, and for the advancement of the ongoing struggles in order to create a democratic, non-racial and just society. Chairperson of the Group's board, Mbulelo Lipile says they cannot sit idle while the diversion of donor funding continues unabated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lipile for further details.
South Africa's leading debt management company, DebtBusters, says there has been a 41% increase in the number of consumers seeking debt counselling in the South Africa. Due to the high cost of living, many South African consumers are continuing to battle to make ends meet. There has also been a rampant increase in payday loans as consumers try to supplement their salaries. SABC reporter, Matimu Khosa filed this report.
Earlier in the week, ANC president, Cyril Ramaphosa sounded the alarm on potential interference by foreign intelligence agencies on the elections. This follows the party's stance and that of government on the Israeli and Palesntianian conflict. Ramaphosa says there is a strong fight back against South Africa.
Ramaphosa's sentiments were also echoed by International Relations Minister, Naledi Pandor. Pandor says the pushback is more economical than a consequence of the ruling by the International Court of Justice.
We spoke to Head of the African Governance and Diplomacy Programme and the Russia-Africa Project at the South African Institute of International Affairs, Steven Gruzd
The IEC says it all system go for the upcoming final voter registration weekend starting tomorrow. For the first time in the history of the country, the national voters' roll has surpassed the 27 million mark and the IEC hopes the number will increase by the end of this registration drive. Eligible voters can also use this weekend to update or change their details before the voter's roll is closed for the 2024 General Elections. The Home Affairs department has also on board by extending its operating hours by two hours starting from today. We spoke to IEC Chairpeson, Mosotho Moepya
The IEC adds that beyond 14 Million young people are eligible to vote but remain not registered, especially in urban areas. Ground Work Collective says some of these young people are under the age of 30 years. For more on this, we spoke to Founder and CEO of Ground Work Collective, Mbali Ntuli...
Pretoria Moot Station Commander, Karel Swanepoel is continuing his testimony in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial at the Pretoria High Court . Swanepoel is testifying in the trial-within-a-trial on the occurrence book at the Silverton police station where accused number one alleged that he was assaulted. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane filed this report.
Workers at the Themba Hospital in KaBokweni, Mpumalanga have downed tools as they continue their demand for better working conditions, additional staff members and functioning equipment, among other demands. The hospital has been operating on a skeleton staff since Tuesday, forcing relatives of admitted patients to provide food for their loved ones. SABC reporter, Eric Lubisi has more.
Management at the University of the Witswatersrand, in Johannesburg says the smooth running of the registration process for the 2024 academic year could be attributed to institution having pro-actively addressed some of the challenges faced by students, such as funding. In recent years, a number of universities experienced violent protests over fees. Wits received 140 000 applications for the 2024 academic year, but it can only accommodate 6 300 first year students. Similar reports of registrations have been recorded in other parts on the country. For a look at the registration processes at universities across the country, SABC reporters Horisani Sithole, Sentleeng Lehihi and Aphumelele Mdlalane.
The Dr Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington, in the Northern Cape has been plagued by complaints of poor service delivery. The air conditioning system at the hospital has reportedly been broken for some time, leading to some patients showing symptoms of heat stroke. Sources inside the hospital say there are concerns that medication will be spoiled because of the high temperature and lack of cooling infrastructure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ulrich Hendriks and spokesperson for the department of health in the Northern Cape, Lebohang Majaha.
The International Monetary Forum revised down South Africa's economic growth, this year from a previous projection of one-point-eight to one-percent. The IMF attributes the downward revision of the country's growth to persistent logistical constraints and shortages in electricity supply. The IMF's World Economic Outlook, further projects global economic growth to reach three-point-one percent this year. SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo reports.
The Tsitsikikamma community, along the Garden Route, remains in limbo over the future of some Grade 10 learners in the area. Two weeks since the re-opening of the new school year, some learners are said to be stuck at home as their parents cannot afford to pay for scholar transport to schools situated at nearby towns, which stand 70 to 80km away. Allegations are that Tsitsikamma Primary School was to be converted to a high school in order to accommodate the community but plans in this regard did not materialise. For a look at the state of education in the Eastern Cape province, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporters, Lwando Nomoyi and Abongile Jantlies, as well as spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Basic Education, Malibongwe Mtima.
Former President Thabo Mbeki has launched a scathing attack on his successor, Jacob Zuma. He was speaking at the ANC National Executive Committee Lekgotla in Boksburg, following the NEC's decision to suspend Zuma for contravening the party's constitution. Our senior political reporter, Samkele Maseko compiled this report...
Chaotic scenes have continued at the Theresa Park High School, north of Pretoria. Parents have claimed that learners of the school attend classes only twice a week, while Grade 9s attend three times due to capacity issues. The school opened last year and is situated in the same yard as another school called Amandasig High School. The school does not have teachers available for at least three subjects, with inadequate water and sanitation facilities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABCreporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Member of Parliament, Mosebenzi Zwane has given evidence to Parliament's Powers and Privileges Committee, which is currently holding a hearing into his failure to appear in the National Assembly in May last year. At the time, Zwane had been called to apologise for undeclared benefits he received from the controversial Gupta family. Zwane says on the day in question he was attending to a family matter
International crimes falling under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court or ICC cannot be addressed through a passive posture or through the acceptance of continued non-co-operation of States. That was message from Prosecutor Karim Khan in his latest report to the Security Council on his office's investigations and prosecutions in relation to Council resolution 1593. This referred the situation in Darfur, Sudan to the ICC as far back as 2005. In a briefing to the Council from Chad where he had been visiting refugees who have fled the current conflict in Sudan, Khan warned that we are fast approaching a breaking point as he urged the Council to give the situation the attention it needs now more than ever. SABC reporter, Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Sixty-three of the sixty-five alleged instigators who were arrested during the 2021 unrest have made their first appearance at the Durban High Court. The suspects are facing charges in connection with the unrest and public violence that occurred in several parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Over 350 were killed when the unrest spread from KwaZulu-Natal to Gauteng. SABC reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe has more...
Non profit organisation, Corruption Watch has released its 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) which shows that South Africa's public sector corruption perceptions have dropped 2 points since last year, with a score of 41. The country's current ranking is the lowest since 2012, with the report highlighting the inability of governments worldwide to combat corruption. Sub-Saharan Africa has shown mixed results, with most countries experiencing stagnation and poor performance. The index has found that the region's challenges stem from decades of underfunding, corruption, illicit financial flows, deepening inequality and social injustice. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to by Karam Singh, executive director of Corruption Watch.
African National Congress President, Cyril Ramaphosa says he is not worried about the possible impact that the suspension of former President, Jacob Zuma may have on the governing party. Ramaphosa's remarks follow an announcement by party secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula that the party's National Executive Committee had invoked one of the rules of the its constitution to suspend Zuma after he announced his affiliation with the newly formed, Umkhonto weSizwe Party. Speaking at media briefing after the conclusion of the party's the 3-day NEC meeting, Mbalula said the party had done all it could to engage Zuma involvement with Umkhonto weSizwe party. SABC senior reporter, Ntebo Mokobo has more.
PwC's South African Economic Outlook 2024 report has outlined major challenges facing businesses in the country. The report has outlined how financial troubles coupled with the growing demands on the state and available fiscal resources have placed pressure on the government. With structural challenges like load-shedding, high levels of unemployment and the scourge of crime , South Africa is seeing short-term crises manifesting in five areas such as macroeconomic volatility, disrupted supply chains, scarcity in resources, challenges to accessing healthcare services and struggling public institutions. The report also shows that from 2019 to 2023, more South Africans have avoided using government services due to the state's inability to deliver quality. To unpack and analyse these key points, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to economist and senior manager at PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Xhanti Payi
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearings on a complaint lodged by Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo against suspended Judge Nomonde Mngqibisa-Thusi will be heard in-camera. Mngqibisa-Thusi is appearing before the tribunal and faces possible impeachment if she is found guilty of the allegations of gross incompetence and gross incapacity, leveled against her. Today the Tribunal is set to call three witnesses who will deal with sensitive evidence. SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe filed this report...
A report released by the South African Human Rights Commission and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities Rights Commission has found that the 2021 unrest was racially-driven between Black and Indian community members. The two organisations say investigations into widespread looting and violence began in KwaZulu-Natal and spread to Gauteng. Over 300 people were killed in the violence which cost the country billions in lost revenue. CRL Rights Commission chairperson, Professor David Musoma says inequality between the two communities was also noted.
A clause that protects electricity end-users from debt squabbles between power utility Eskom and municipalities should be included in the electricity regulation amendment Bill. This is according to some residents of the Free state who made submissions to the portfolio committee on mineral resources and energy, which will be completing public hearings on Monday. Free State residents have expressed their support for the Bill. SABC reporter, Thoola Letlala has more.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Australians are investing in a new vanadium mine in Limpopo.
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The revival of copper mining in the Northern Cape this week received yet another positive nudge forward.
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South Africa's IDC opted to fund a manganese project in Botswana rather than a similar one in our Mbombela. Why?
The International Court of Justice is set to hand down a preliminary ruling this afternoon on a request from South Africa that Israel immediately suspend its military operations in Gaza. The petition to the Court for provisional measures in a case that alleges that Israel's military actions in Gaza, which started after the Hamas massacre of Israeli civilians on October 7th, amounted to acts of genocide as stipulated in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention of the Crime of Genocide. South Africa is asking the Hague-based Court to grant interim injunctions that could fundamentally shift the character of Israel's devastating offensive in Gaza. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor John Stremlau, an International Relations Expert from Wits University...
Some medical organizations and associations are calling on the South African government to regulate the use of hubbly bubbly, vaping and other unregulated tobacco products, stating concerns over marketing tactics that promote the use of these products as a safe option to smoking cigarettes. They say it is concerning that hubbly bubbly and vaping are widely promoted and marketed as less harmful when in actual fact, they are more dangerous than other tobacco products, including cigarettes. This comes in the wake of the SABC recently broadcasting a story educating the public on the dangers of smoking hubbly bubbly, deemed by doctors as a silent killer. SABC reporter, Sellwane Khakhau filed this report.
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will represent South Africa at the Hague on Friday when the International Court of Justice delivers judgment in the case between South Africa and Israel. Last year, South Africa filed a lawsuit with the ICJ requesting an injunction against Israel on the grounds that Israel's attacks on Gaza violate the Genocide Convention. Here is Clayson Monyela, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation's head of public diplomacy
The vetting processes used by the county's authorities have once again been thrust intro the spotlight following the court appearance of Nhlanhla Sizani, a 24-year-old alleged imposter who deceived South Africa's top security cluster, NatJoints, into believing he was a UN representative. Sizani reportedly received briefings from NatJoints on SA's readiness for the 2021 local government elections when he allegedly misrepresented himself as a UN ambassador or diplomat and submitted a fraudulent letter bearing the UN logo, in which he requested a police escort to monitor voting stations around the country. He faces charges of fraud and forgery. His case was postponed to February 6, 2024. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Daily Maverick Reporter, Velani Ludidi.
Suspended Judge Anna Makhubele has finally taken the stand in the misconduct probe before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal. She is appearing before the body after a formal complaint was laid against her by civil society organisation, #UniteBehind in 2019. The organisation alleges that the Judge violated the separation of powers principle by being both a Judge and chairperson of state-owned company, Prasa. Zoleka Qodashe has the details for the sitting in Rosebank.
The trial-within-trial in the Senzo Meyiwa murder case has resumed in the High Court in Pretoria. Yesterday, lead investigator in the case, Bongani Gininda testified that communication records between singer, Kelly Khumalo and her sister, Zandi Khumalo show that Kelly wanted to get rid of Meyiwa, as early as the year 2013. During his testimony, Gininda also revealed that two of the accused had implicated the singer in the murder of the soccer star. Meyiwa was gunned down in October 2014 at Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg. Five men are on trial for Meyiwa's murder. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga has tabled before Parliament, her department's policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy in schools. The policy aims to, amongst other things, prohibit the expulsion of pregnant learners from schools and to provide them with pre and post-natal support. According to research conducted by Statistics South Africa, 4 percent of learners between the ages of 14 and 19 years fell pregnant between the year 2018 to 2022. The Basic Education Department now wants proactive support for learners who fall pregnant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director for Learner Pregnancy Prevention and Management at the Department of Basic Education, Busisa Nokama.
The Marshalltown Fire Justice Campaign has welcomed the confession and arrest of a suspect, in connection with the Usindiso building fire in Johannesburg, where 77 people were killed last year. The suspect was on Tuesday after he confessed before the Commission of inquiry into the Usindiso building fire this week. Campaign coordinator, Mametlwe Sebei says the arrest does not absolve the City of Johannesburg and other levels of government for their culpability.
While some opposition parties have united under the multi-party charter, political parties like the Black First Land First and liberation movement and the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania have instead headed down to Nkandla to meet with former President Jacob Zuma ahead of the general elections. This is as the black minority parties intend on uniting and consolidating their leftist vote ahead of what has been termed as the most contested elections since 1994. SABC reporter, Sibahle Motha reports.
The School Governing Body from the Sidlamafa Secondary School in Nkomazi, Mpumalanga says it remains frustrated at the continuing closure of the school. No learning and teaching has been taking place at the schools since the reopening of the school term last week. Parents want the department to build a new school for learners or at least provide mobile classrooms in the interim. SGB chairperson, Patrick Radebe elaborates..
Transport Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga has announced that a total of 1,427 people were killed in road crashes across the country over the 2023 festive season. She noted that most crashes took place between 7pm and 10pm with fatalities most recorded on Sundays. Chikunga elaborates...
KwaZulu-Natal ANC provincial secretary, Bheki Mtolo says the provincial executive committee in the province has resolved to immediately expel ANC members found to be taking part in or associating themselves with other political parties contesting the 2024 elections. Mtolo says these members would be presumed to have already left the party or voluntarily resigned themselves. Mtolo was addressing the media on the outcomes of the ANC-KZN PEC meeting earlier.
The cross-examination of the lead investigator in the Senzo Meyiwa murder case is continuing in the High Court in Pretoria. Brigadier Bongani Gininda has been testifying in the trial- within-a-trial as the defence team challenges the admissibility of confession statements of some of the accused. Five men are on trial for gunning down the Bafana Bafana captain in October 2014. A witness statement that Gininda read - revealed that one of the accused -Bongani Ntanzi- was the gun supplier and hitman. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane filed this report.
Fuel Consumers remain in limbo over the source of contaminated diesel that has been found in at least 70 filling stations across the country. According to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, the watered-down diesel is allegedly mixed with illuminating paraffin. This is prompted the Automobile Association to express great concern, adding that it may be possible that petrol stations are not aware that the fuel they get from suppliers is contaminated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Fuel Pricing Mechanism at the Department of Mineral resources and Energy, Robert Maake.
Inflation is expected to decline further after slowing to five-point-five percent in November 2023. This comes as Statistics South Africa prepares to release the consumer price inflation figure this week. The Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Committee is also expected to make a rates announcement later this week, while the producer price inflation numbers for December are also due out this week. SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo has more.
Disgruntled scholar transport providers in Mpumalanga have halted their operations. They are accusing the Public Works Roads and Transport Department of failing to adhere to its commitment to increase their annual payment by 5%. The department is also accused of failing to pay some operators following an increase of the number of pupils they transport. SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi has more.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development has placed some officials on precautionary suspension following an investigation into a multimillion-rand grant. Last week an online publication GroundUp, revealed that over R114-million had been given to two skills development organisations in a year in which funding to other sectors including the elderly and community care has been cut. The two non-profit organisations are the Beauty Hub Academy and Daracorp. In April last year, the department proposed deep cuts in key funding. The money was to be redirected towards the department's research and development programme and its poverty alleviation initiatives. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to investigative journalist at GroundUp, Raymond Joseph and Director of Communications for the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Motsamai Motlhaolwa.
The cross examination of Brigadier Bongani Gininda has resumed as the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial continues. The trial resumed in the High court in Pretoria. It was adjourned last year after advocate Thulani Mngomezulu for accused 1 & 2 was unable to proceed due to ill health. Five men are currently on trial for the soccer star's 2014 murder. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane filed this report.
Several people have been swindled of their money in online scams in Limpopo in recent months. Police say scammers use social media platforms to entice unsuspecting people by publishing bogus job and business opportunities. Mahlatse Phaladi filed this report.
A study by Stellenbosch University researchers has found that two out of three adolescents with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) experience breathing problems or lung abnormalities even after completing the treatment. The study, published in The Lancet, found that 76% of adolescents had abnormal lung function after treatment, and 65% still showed abnormal function at the second assessment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to study lead, Dr Marieke van der Zalm, from Stellenbosch University's Desmond Tutu TB Centre.
Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda says the city is working with embassies in Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Tanzania to identify victims of a recent building fire and determine their eligibility for temporary housing. Gwamanda was briefing members of the media after two people lost their lives in a blaze in a residential building on the corner of Commissioner and Nugget Streets.More than 150 people were displaced and several injured in the two-storey building, which had been partitioned by shacks. It is alleged that a woman sprayed paraffin on one of the shacks and set it alight during domestic dispute. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokersperson for the Marshalltwon Justice Campaign, Mametlwe Sebei
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Global mining gathered at the business conference in Davos has committed itself to being Nature-positive.
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The Johannesburg Stock Exchange is ready to help with the raising of capital to fund the mining of critical minerals.
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Mineworkers in the Northern Cape are going to have the benefit of wearing smartwatches to keep them safe.
The 2023 prison census by the Committee to Protect Journalists has revealed that the number of jailed journalists has increased. CPJ has documented 320 journalists behind bars since December 1st 2023- it says the number was the second-highest recorded by CPJ since the census began in 1992. According to the report Israel has emerged as one of the world's leading jailers of journalists following the Israel-Gaza war. Israel is ranked sixth – tied with Iran – behind China, Myanmar, Belarus, Russia, and Vietnam. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Muthoki Mumo, Sub-Saharan Africa Representative of the Committee to Protect Journalists.
KwaZulu-Natal is expected to get a breather from heavy rains that have been lashing the province since Christmas Eve, claiming scores of lives and causing damage to infrastructure, homes and businesses. As light rains continue in the eThekwini Municipality, residents remain concerned that the accumulation of consistent rainfall will further jeopardise their properties. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Anthony Turton from the Centre for Environmental Management, at the University of Free State
Police have managed to quell tensions between a group of parents from Ward 70 in Fleurhof, South of Johannesburg and the teaching staff at Florida High School in Rooderpoort. The parents demand that their learners be placed at this particular school as it is located within a five kilometre radius from Fleurhof. Parents forcibly took their kids to the desired school today and they allege the children were insulted and harrassed which almost prompted them to open a case of intimidation and harassments against the school principal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to one of the parents, Selby Leshaba.
The Independent Examinations Board matric candidates have obtained a 98,46% pass rate for the 2023 academic year. CEO of the IEB, Confidence Dikgole says all praise must go to the teachers and learners for their dedication. She spoke to Sakina Kamwendo about the factors that contributed to this year's pass mark.
Piotrans, the company that operates Johannesburg's Rea Vaya bus rapid system has entered into an agreement with the well known KwaZulu-Natal-based Gcaba family. Under the agreement, the taxi business family will supply feeder buses to the embattled Rea Vaya bus service. Johannesburg's MMC for Roads and Transport, Kenny Kunene made the announcement on Thursday morning, just weeks after Piotrans, an entity formed by former taxi operators, was placed under business rescue. Kunene says following his intervention, he was able to unearth systemic efforts by the entity's former CEO to liquidate the company. He has vowed to protect the interests of Piotrans' 299 shareholders.
DA MP and Deputy Shadow Minister of Trade and Industry, Ghaleb Cachalia has resigned from the party and terminated his membership. He says the leadership of the DA has become increasingly uncomfortable with his public utterances over the past few months. This relates to issues around the Israel-Hamas war. He says as a consequence he has been fired from his position as the shadow cabinet minister.
A group of parents from Ward 70 in Fleurhof, south of Johannesburg, has marched alongside 30 learners, to the Gauteng Education Department's Johannesburg West District Office in a last-ditch effort to have their children placed in a nearby high school. The parents say their children have been placed at Die Burger High School in Florida, which they complain, is about 17 kilometers away from their homes. They are demanding that their children be placed at at Florida Park High School, which is located 5 kilometers from Fleurhof. This comes after Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane asked parents to give him at least three days to resolve learner placement problems in the province. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo to a leader of the Ward 70 community of Fleurhof, Lori Richards.
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department has issued a statement calling for the early closure of schools due to bad weather conditions predicted today. The South African Weather Service has issued a level 5 warning for the coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal, as well as parts of Zululand. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KwaZulu-Natal provincial education spokesperson, Muzi Mahlambi.
Parents of learners from Masamane Primary School outside Mahikeng in the North West, have closed the school citing several issues which include unhygienic toilets and poor quality drinking water. The parent accuse the provincial education department of neglecting their pleas on fixing the school before the start of the school term today. One of the parents says following engagements with the department late last year, nothing has been done to address their challenges.
Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga has cautioned pupils at Kgatoentle Secondary School in Ga-Rankuwa about the impact of alcohol and substance abuse. Welcoming learners and staff at the school as term one of the 2024 academic year officially begins, she also urged young girls to be careful and not be trapped in unwanted or unplanned teenage pregnancy
The department of Basic Education says it is ready for the re-opening of schools tomorrow. Schools in parts of the country are expected to commence the 2024 academic year on Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the Basic Education Department, Elijah Mhlanga.
Frustration is mounting amongst parents as some learners have yet to be placed in a school, a day before the start of the first school term tomorrow. In Gauteng parents have been queuing at the Education Department district offices as they scramble to find a school for their children. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo who has been assessing the situation in schools in the province.
Two cholera cases have been detected in Musina and Senwabarwana in Limpopo. The Provincial Health Department says the positive cases were detected at the Musina and Helena Franz hospitals. The patients who are from Zimbabwe, had been admitted at the two hospitals upon their return from the festive season holidays. Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National health department spokesperson, Foster Mohale.
The Allianz Risk Barometer for 2024 has identified critical infrastructure blackouts which include power disruptions and aging infrastructure tops South Africa business risk for this year. The Barometer is an annual report, which ranks business risk and threats to business globally. Critical infrastructure blackouts have emerged as the number one risk for businesses in South Africa for the second consecutive year highlighting the severe impact of power outages and the failure of essential infrastructure such as ports, railways, roads and more on the economy and businesses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Business Development Manager at Allianz Commercial South Africa, Senzile Ndlozi.
Higher education minister, Dr Blade Nzimande says the government has committed R3.8 billion towards the student financial aid scheme. Nzimande recently presented the first phase of the Comprehensive Student Funding Model in Pretoria. He says revised financial model will ensure that the missing middle can access financial support to pursue their studies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Veli Mbele.
Several roads in the Durban area in KwaZulu-Natal have been flooded after heavy downpours in the city and coastal areas. Reports have also been received of houses being flooded in areas in the northern parts of the city, and on the north coast, as far as Ballito. Rescue and emergency services say in other areas, residents needed to be evacuated from flooded homes in Verulam and surrounding areas. The heavy rains left a trail of destruction damaging roads and bridges. Two people died and four are missing. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KZN spokesperson for the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Siboniso Mngadi.
Israel has hit back at South Africa accusing the country of tabling many distortions at the International Court of Justice, sitting in the Hague in the Netherlands. The ICJ is hearing presentations from the Israeli delegation today following South Africa's presentations yesterday. South Africa argued that the World Court should issue an order which should compel Israel to stop what it terms as genocidal acts in the bombardment of Gaza and the killing of Palestinian civilians. Israel has however questioned amongst many other pointers, whether South Africa has considered that some of the civilians killed during the war could be militants disguised as civilians. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Human Rights Lawyer, Richard Spoor...
President Cyril Ramphosa says through his lens, renowned photojournalist and anti-apartheid activist, Dr Peter Magubane left an indelible mark on the history of the country. Ramaphosa delivered the eulogy at a funeral service held in honour of Magubane, who died in Johannesburg last week. Speaking to mourners at the service, Ramaphosa described the late 91-year-old as a true voice for the people of South Africa.
Legal teams from Israel and South Africa are preparing their arguments ahead of the much-anticipated case on Thursday at the International Court of Justice in the Hague, Netherlands. South Africa is seeking intervention from the ICJ to prevent Israel from committing acts of genocide in Gaza and calling for a halt to combat operations. The health ministry in Gaza says more than 22-thousand people, mainly women and children, have been killed so far. South Africa filed its application on the 29th of December last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of International Human Rights Law at the North West University, Professor Klaus Beiter.
Congress of the People leader, Mosiuoa Lekota has called for an amendment to South Africa's constitution, adding that an amendment to the constitution will allow for the people to truly govern. While the party has struggled for relevance since its inception in 2008, Lekota says the time has come for COPE to make a meaningful impact during the 2024 general elections. Speaking to members of the media earlier today, Lekota called for the electorate to realise that they hold power with their votes.
It has been seven years since the Constitutional Court ruled that former President Jacob Zuma should pay back a percentage of the money used for non-security upgrades at his private home in Nkandla. Then Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng made the ruling after former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela's remedial action stated that a portion of the money spent on the upgrades should come from Zuma's own pocket. SABC News reporter, Sibahle Motha filed this report.
The dismissed 401 mine workers from GoldOne Mine's Springs operation have been served with dismissal letters. This after the workers allegedly received their dismissal notifications yesterday via text message. A further 114 mine workers have been placed on suspension and are expected to be subjected to disciplinary processes later this month. Meanwhile, the National Union of Mineworkers has vowed to appeal the dismissals, insisting the mine workers had instituted a sit-in underground and not a hostage situation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Katlego Legodi.
The Competition Appeal Court has thrown out the case against 23 of the 28 banks that were accused of rigging the rand by the Competition Commission. The case was dismissed against all the South African banks appealing the matter, except Investec. The Commission suggested that the implicated banks in the alleged rand manipulation generated about a trillion rand a day between 2007 and 2013. The court has found that the commission has failed to produce sufficient evidence to implicate the institutions in wrongdoing. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Economist of the Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt.
The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has assured South Africans that government is working hard to resolve the load shedding crisis. Speaking to members of the media about government's energy action plan, Ramokgopa acknowledged that work is underway to address the country's unstable electricity supply. South Africans have recently experienced low stages of load shedding as a result of improved generation. The Minister explains the significance of planned maintenance as a result of the bailouts from the National treasury.
The African National Congress leadership has met with party members at a cadre forum meeting held at Umjindi Town Hall in Barberton, Mpumalanga. Some of the issues discussed include the discipline of members when the party's Secretary General, Fikile Mbabula reminded them that no individual, in leadership or not, is bigger than the ANC. This comes at the time when the party's former president Jacob Zuma has endorsed the newly formed Umkhonto weSizwe Political party just as the country heads towards the 2024 general elections. SABC reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng reports.
Impala Bafokeng Platinum mine says all its mines in Rustenburg, in the North West, are operating in full swing except for the two Shafts that were affected by a sit in last December. Workers were expected to report for duty on Sunday night but refused to go underground until mine management withdraws suspension notices issued to some employees. The workers are also demanding that the mine pay them their pension funds and employee share scheme benefits. SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen says the South African government has never cared for its people. Steenhuisen has accused President Cyril Ramaphosa of cowardice, adding that not a single person under his leadership has served prison time for their involvement in corruption. He was speaking to members of the media following allegations of kickbacks paid to the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande and the South African Communist Party by service providers contracted by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Steenhuisen has joined calls by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa), ActionSA and Freedom Frontg Plus, who are calling for Nzimande and NSFAS board chairperson, Ernest Khosa to be fired.
Residents of the Soul City informal settlement in Kagiso on Gauteng's West Rand say they are living in fear of illegal miners who they say are living in the community. The residents say they are scared of being murdered as they face danger on an almost daily basis. Four suspected illegal miners were killed during a shooting incident in the settlement at the weekend. Three others were injured and taken to hospital. The deceased are three Lesotho nationals and a Mozambican. Police says the victims were seen being chased and shot at, by a group of armed suspects from a nearby illegal mining site. SABC reporter, Prabashini Moodley visited the settlement under police guard and filed this report.
Traffic officials expect traffic volumes to increase on roads nationwide as holidaymakers to return to different destinations. Limpopo roads usually carry heavy traffic during festive seasons as they are a link to SADC countries. However, traffic officials say they will be out in their numbers to ensure safer roads. Elvis Presslin spoke to reporter, Vutivi Maluleke...
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse is calling for the resignation of Dr Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education and Training, and Ernest Khosa, chairperson of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme board. OUTA says it has evidence in the form of voice recordings to support their call. The recordings detail two meetings between Khosa and a representative of a service provider which reveal how service providers allegedly paid millions of rand in kickbacks to Nzimande and Khosa, as well as at least R1 million to the South African Communist Party (SACP). This was done in return for tenders and protection for service providers. Elvis Presslin spoke to OUTA's Investigations Manager, Rudie Heyneke
With the festive season drawing to a close, travelers have begun returning home after a well earned break. Around 200 travelers were intercepted at the Beitbridge Border Post, outside Musina in Limpopo after they were caught trying to enter the South Africa illegally. Border Management Agency (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato is at the border post monitoring the movement of holiday makers returning from Zimbabwe. Vutivi Maluleke reports.
Public service and administration minister, Noxolo Kiviet has revealed that thousands of public servants are illegally claiming social grants that are intended for citizens in financial need. The revelation was made when Kiviet made a written reply to a parliamentary question by Democratic Alliance Member of Parliament, Mimmy Gondwe, in which Kiviet revealed that over 5,800 Covid-19 social relief of distress grants and over 33,800 social grants were cancelled after it was discovered that the applicants or beneficiaries had contravened the Social Assistance Act. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the head of the public administration ethics, integrity & disciplinary technical assistance unit at the Department of Public Service & Administration, Dr Salomon Hoogenraad-Vermaak.
Parliament has its work cut out for it in 2024, as it will finalise key legislation before the country heads to the polls later this year. This is includes among others, the Electoral amendment act, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate and the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill. The sixth Parliament finishes its term before the next national and provincial elections, but more than 50 pieces of legislation must still be processed. Zalene Merrington reports...
The year 2024 is expected to be a busy political year for South Africans. Not not only will 30 years of democracy be celebrated, they will also take part in what some dubbed the most contested elections, since 1994. With campaigning already in full swing, most political parties will soon launched their election manifestos. The country's courts will also see many political figures, this year. The trails of ex- president Jacob Zuma and expelled ANC Secretary General and President of the African Congress Transformation (ACT), Ace Magashule will also go ahead. SABC Political Correspondent, Ntebo Mokobo.
The South African Union of Students-(SAUS) has appealed to students to apply for NSFAS funding as soon as possible and not wait for the matric results before applying. NSFAS closing date for 2024 applications is the 31st of January. SAUS says the NSFAS system is known to collapse when it receives lots of applications at once. Meanwhile NSFAS says it is amending its processes to prevent delayed payments to students. Elvis Presslin spoke to NSFAS Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi.
Former US presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump are among the list of people named in court documents with connections to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. A judge in New York allowed the release of the papers as part of a lawsuit related to Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year jail sentence for sex-trafficking crimes. Epstein took his own life while awaiting trial in New York in 2019. SABC US correspondent, Nick Harper filed this report.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has confirmed that Oscar Pistorius will be placed on parole on Friday 05 January 2024. Pistorius' comes after he was granted parole on 24 November last year after spending 11 years in prison for killing his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. Following the assessment of Pistorius' profile and other material submitted for parole consideration, a decision was made by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board to place the former Paralympian on parole. Elvis Presslin spoke to the legal representative for the Steenkamp family, Tania Koen.
Two people are appearing in the Kriel Magistrates Court on charges of child abduction and contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa. The case involves a four-month-old baby girl abducted on December 28, 2023, and a total of three other children the pair abducted. The suspects were arrested on January 1, 2024. Police are urging the community to assist in locating the families of the other children, one from Marble Hall and the other from Springs. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpumalanga SAPS Spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala.
Last week, South Africa launched a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, alleging that Israel's military campaign in Gaza amounts to genocide. In the 84-page suit South Africa details evidence of brutality being perpetrated in Gaza and asks the Court which resolves interstate disputes, to urgently declare that Israel has breached its responsibilities under international law since the 7th of October last year. South African government lawyers are preparing for the case to be heard on 11 and 12 of January. Meanwhile, Eylon Levy, Israeli spokesperson says Israel condemns the decision and that it will fight South Africa's claim that it is committing "genocidal" acts in Gaza.
Rea Vaya passengers in Johannesburg have been left stranded yet again after the bus service suspended its operations after bus drivers embarked on an unprotected strike. PioTrans, which operates the service in partnership with the City of Johannesburg, was placed in business rescue in December. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMWU Regional Secretary in Johannesburg, Thobani Nkosi and business rescue practitioner, Mahier Tayob, who is overseeing the business rescue process at PioTrans.
The police and South African Defence Force have seized chrome stockpiles estimated at R15-million at ga-Phasha village, outside Burgersfort in Limpopo. The operation was part of measures by authorities to rid the mineral-rich Sekhukhune district of illegal mining operations. Mining equipment worth millions of rand was also seized and 19 people were arrested. Pimani Baloyi filed this report.
Two suspects was arrested for the murder of four people including a child in Soshanguve, North of Pretoria on New Year's Day. 14- year-old- girl, Vuyolwethu Ziwela, her uncle, Mpho Kgobotlo, a police officer and his two friends, Phomolang Molakapatlo and Thando Dlamini, were gunned down by heavily armed suspects at the township's notorious, Jukulyn section in Block P. The motive for the attack is remains unknown. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
Former anti-apartheid activist and British Labour Lord Peter Hain says that peace talks are the only way forward in the war between Hamas and Israel. Last week, South Africa launched a case with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, alleging that Israel's military campaign in Gaza amounts to genocide. In the 84-page suit, South Africa details evidence of brutality being perpetrated in Gaza and asks the Court which resolves interstate disputes, to urgently declare that Israel has breached its responsibilities under international law since the 7th of October last year. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Lord Peter Hain.
As South Africa grapples with acts of criminality, residents of the Limpopo province have reported a high prevalence of mob justice incidents. This as members of some communities across the province continue to show little or no faith in the country's justice system. According to police statistics, South Africa recorded 588 cases of mob justice between January and March 2023. These include murder, attempted murder, arson and assault. SABC reporter, Baatseba Mabowa has more.
As South Africans enjoy the last few days of the holiday season, power utility, Eskom kicked off the new year with the announcement of the return of stages two and three electricity rolling blackouts. The power utility has cited a number of reasons for the decision including intensified maintenance, the loss of six generating units, as well as three- generating units not returning online as had been anticipated. This comes just days after Eskom announced the synchronisation of a new unit at the Kusile power station. Energy Expert, Chris Yelland says the return of load shedding following an extended period of uninterrupted power supply, is a huge blow for the public. He spoke to Elvis Presslin.
The outcome of the 2024 general election is being touted to hold the same importance as South Africa's first democratic election in 1994. Throughout 2023, speculation ran rife as to whether any party will get an outright majority. An array of surveys predicted a drop of below 50% for the ruling African National Congress. The predictions may provide opposition parties the opportunity to explore new and innovative ways to topple the once unassailable ANC. Zoleka Qodashe has more.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs says a total of 39 people have died since October as floods continue to devastate the province. The department earlier urged residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers after the remains of two people were recovered from a vehicle that was swept away by flood water on New Year's eve. Elvis Presslin spoke to spokesperson for the Kwazulu-Natal Cooperative government and Traditional Affairs department, Siboniso Mngadi
As South Africans mourn the death of legendary photographer, Dr Peter Magubane, he has been described as a fearless story teller, whose commitment earned him international acclaim, numerous awards and recognition. Magubane passed away on Monday at the age of 91. He rose to prominence by covering pivotal political events in South Africa such as the June 16 student uprisings in 1976. For a look at Magubane life and times of the late activist, Elvis Presslin spoke to former Sowetan journalist and anti-Apartheid activist, Thami Mazwai.
Around 20 000 Minstrel performers are expected to take to the streets of Cape Town today for the annual Tweede Nuwe Jaar Minstrel Street Parade, as they light up the streets in their colourful outfits. The parade is expected to attract over 80 000 spectators along Darling Street, the Grand Parade, Adderley Street and into the Bo-Kaap. Elvis Presslin spoke to Operations Director for the organising committee of the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association, Riyaad Peters.
The outcome of the upcoming 2024 general election is touted to hold the same importance as the country's first democratic election in 1994. Throughout 2023, speculation has run rife as to whether any party will get an outright majority. An array of surveys predicted a drop of below fifty percent for the ruling African National Party. This predictions, is said to provide opposition parties the opportunity to explore new and innovative ways to topple the once unassailable ANC. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
The year 2023 saw the Life Esidimeni Inquest conclude its hearings into the deaths of 144 mental health patients, with the families of the deceased asking the High Court in Pretoria to find former Gauteng Health MEC, Qedani Mahlangu liable for the deaths of the loved ones. The families blame Mahlangu for the controversial relocation from the Life Esidimeni facilities and its subsequent closure in June 2016. Most patients ended up in ill equipped and unlicensed NGO's across Gauteng. Phanuel Shuma reports.
Democratic Republic of Congo President, Felix Tshisekedi has secured over 70% of the country's recent vote, according to the DRC's election commission. The preliminary results of the December 20 election were announced in Kinshasa amid demands from the opposition and some civil society groups for the vote to be rerun due to massive logistical problems that put the validity of the outcome into question. Opposition candidates claim the problems were part of a deliberate plan to allow the results to be rigged in favor of Tshisekedi. While supporters of Tshisekedi took to the streets yesterday to celebrate the results, opponents demonstrated against them. The elections had over 40% of voter turnout, with around 18 million people voting. Now to get more on this matter we are joined on the line by SABC correspondent, Chris Ocamringa.
WIth the countdown having begun towards next year's national and provincial elections, the Electoral Commission is working hard to ensure a free and fair poll. NPE 2024 - as it has been dubbed by the IEC - will be historic as independent candidates will contest seats in the national assembly as well as provincial legislatures for the first time. Recent Constitutional Court judgements require the Commission to amend its requirments for political party participation and engage in voter education on various aspects of the election including number of ballots and voting stations. Together with political parties the IEC will be seeking to get as many of South Africa's over 26 million eligible voters to register and turn up to the vote in an atmosphere of unprecedented disillusionment. Busi Chimombe reports....
Search and rescue teams have recovered the remains of 27 people following deadly floods in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Mop-up operations are continuing in different parts of the province after heavy rains swept through the area, submerging homes, damaging infrastructure and washing away vehicles. Weather conditions are not expected to ease as the South African Weather Service issued a level four alert for thunderstorms and disruptive rain along the province's coast from last night, going into today. The weather service warned that areas including Durban, Port Shepstone, Richards Bay, Amanzimtoti and uMthwalume will experience heavy rainfalls which may lead to localised flooding. For a look at the latest regarding search and rescue operations, Elvis Pressin spoke to IPSS Medical Search and Rescue spokesperson, Samantha Meyrick.
The death of Dr Donato Francesco Mattera, aka Don Mattera "Bra Zinga", the world-renowned poet, author, and anti-apartheid activist who died at the age of eighty-seven on Monday 18 July 2022 left his family and South Africans with the huge void. Today 29th December 2023 is his birthday and we want to pay tribute to this giant. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr Teddy Mattera, Deputy Chairperson of the Don Mattera Legacy Foundation
The South African Weather Services has issued severe weather warnings in some parts of the country as rain continues. The weather service says severe thunderstorms, damaging strong winds and disruptive rains should be expected today across the country. The warning comes as Kwazulu-Natal province is still reeling from disastrous floods. Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Weather Service Forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela.....
The Search and rescue teams have recovered two more bodies today at Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, pushing the death toll in the Christmas Eve floods to 15. This follows the devastating floods in Ladysmith on Christmas Eve. Emergency workers have been looking for missing people since the floods. Elvis Presslin spoke to IPSS Medical Rescue spokesperson, Samantha Meyrick
The South African religious delegation, who spent Christmas in Bethlehem with Palestinian war victims, have returned home. Leader of the delegation, Reverend Frank Chikane described their weeklong trip to Bethlehem as an eye-opener. He says they had an opportunity to engage with the communities affected by war. Elvis Presslin spoke to Reverend Frank Chikane
It's almost that time of the year, when many people will be considering making resolutions, as a way of improving their lives in the new year, and setting goals for themselves. Although studies have shown that most people fail to stick to their goals over the long term, some believe, resolutions help people become organised and ignite some passion and determination. As the year draws to an end, some people are looking back at the goals they had set themselves during the past year, in preparation for the new year and new resolutions. Kagiso Keipopele asks if new year's resolutions are really that important.
The World Health Organisation continues to visit overwhelmed hospitals in Gaza. The WHO is concerned about the strain made by escalating hostilities on the few remaining hospitals, with most of the health system decimated. The hospitals are taking in more patients than their capacity and staff can handle, with many not surviving the wait. The WHO has warned that Gaza has 13 partially functioning hospitals, 2 minimally functioning ones, and 21 that are not functioning at all. Elvis Presslin spoke to Spokesperson for World Health Organization, Tarik Jašarević.
Late acclaimed composer and playwright Mbongeni Ngema has been applauded for his contribution in developing performing arts in South Africa, and fostering unity in the country. The 68-year old was killed in a head-on crash on Wednesday night near Bizana, in the Eastern Cape. Elvis Presslin spoke to actor and playwright, Somizi Mhlongo about the late thespian's legacy.
Tributes continue to pour in for the award-winning playwright, actor, choreographer, singer and composer, Mbongeni Ngema. Ngema died on Wednesday in a head-on collision whilst returning from attending a funeral in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. The 68-year-old was known for iconic productions such as Sarafina. My colleague, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him in 2017, where he highlighted the impact the arts had on his and the careers of many world renowned thespians.
The deaf community celebrated one of its biggest achievements in 2023. The South African Sign Language became the country's 12th official language. Earlier this year, Parliament voted for the Constitution 18th Amendment Bill, the president assented, and it became law. Mercedes Besent takes a look back at the long journey it has been for the deaf community, to reach this milestone.
Runners from Bella's Athletics Club in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, have spent the festive holidays giving back to destitute members of the community. The runners provided food parcels to underprivileged families in Hermansburg and Mattafin, as well as homeless people in the CBD. The club says the initiative is to restore the dignity of locals. Eric Lubisi reports....
The number of people missing after flash floods hit Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal on Christmas Eve, has risen to 12. The bodies of 7 victims have been recovered so far after the Vaalspruit burst its banks due to heavy rains in a severe thunderstorm. Search and rescue teams - including members of the police and emergency service IPSS - are continuing their search for the missing today. Washed up jackets, shirts, overalls, blankets and other belongings have been found in and near the river. Search and rescue diver, Tereza van Denberg joined Elvis Presslin on the line for the latest.
Immigration has been a hot topic in South Africa and will dominate discussions heading into the 2024 general elections. The expectation is that issues of migration and foreign nationals will be major talking points in party campaigns as the country's courts recently meted out severe blows to attempts by the department of Home Affairs to perform a complete overhaul of the migration system. The aim of the White Paper on Citizenship and Immigration and Refugee Protection is a coherent and effective policy framework. Also dominating the headlines was the extension of special permits for Zimbabweans and Basotho working in South Africa and the official launch of the Border Managment Authority to oversee the often porous country borders. SABC senior reporter, Busi Chimombe reports.
The board of Rea Vaya bus operator Piotrans, has been dissolved after the operator was placed under business rescue. Business rescue practitioner, Mahier Tayob, told Update at Noon yesterday that anyone found to have broken the law at Rea Vaya will be held accountable. The company is facing financial difficulties due to fraud, maladministration, mismanagement of assets, poor governance, lack of expertise, and disagreements between shareholders, including taxi owners. Elvis Presslin spoke to City of Johannesburg Transport MMC, Kenny Kunene.
The eThekwini Municipality has apologised to affected consumers who received inaccurate bills due to an error in the city's Indigent Policy. As many residents of residential flat units have received inflated water billing in their most recent eThekwini bills, the city has released a statement informing residents that 6 liters of water are available to households with an annual income of R250 000 and below. Many homes above this value have been given the free 6KL since 2020 in error. The municipality now plans to recover amounts credited to approximately 49,000 accounts. Now for more on this we are joined on the line by Ward 23 councellor from eThekwini Municipalty Alicia Kisson
The year 2023 has been one of the toughest for many consumers. Many households' finances were put under pressure by a slew of costs including rising inflation, high interest rates and costs related to load-shedding and water scarcity. Consumers say because of the lack of jobs and rising costs, they were forced to change their lifestyles. Nothando Magudulela reports...
When adversity and difficult times emerge among communities, the unsung heroes are often small charity based organisations doing God's work. This played out in Makhanda, which is facing serious water supply problems, with the local Rotary club coming establishing a water and sanitation project helping schools with access to the life giving fluid. The project raised R6-million, assisting 7 schools in the area. Reporter Nandipha Plaatjie filed this report.
A unique fund raising initiative in KwaZulu-Natal called, The Bucket Initiative, has enabled people from all walks of life to give back to those in need. The initiative is the brainchild of the Ayanda Msweli Foundation. It encourages people to donate as little as 10 Rand into a bucket that has traversed the length and breadth of the province. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports…
The family of Gerco Van Deventer, a South African man kidnapped by the Al Qaeda terrorist group, has confirmed that the 48-year-old has safely returned home and spent Christmas with his loved ones. Van Deventer was kidnapped by Al-Qaeda while working in Libya. For six years he was held prisoner and sold from one group to another. Gift of the Givers helped secure his release earlier this month. His wife, Shereen says they are grateful.
Johannesburg's Rea Vaya bus operator has been placed under business rescue. This comes after a creditor tried to seize its buses. Piotrans has been marred by problems, preventing the company from running optimally. Commutters have been complaining about unreliable service each month. For an update about the state of affairs at Piotrans, Elvis Presslin spoke to Senior Business rescue practitioner and specialist forensic Auditor Mahier Tayab.
The KwaZulu-Natal department of Cooperative Governance and traditional affairs says operations are underway to save 10 people who vanished during flash floods in the province. Earlier, the department confirmed that the death toll following the floods has risen to six. The missing individuals are believed to have been in a caravan park next to the riverbank along the Bellspruit that collapsed. For an update, Elvis Presslin spoke to KwaZulu-Natal department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional affairs spokespersoN, Sboniso Mngadi.
With the festive season in full swing, the Border Management Authority says operations are underway to facilitate and manage the movement of people and goods across 72 ports of entry across South Africa. The BMA and its partners have devised a plan with four phases to facilitate the movement of goods and people. To look at the national picture of the state of busyness of our borders, Elvis Presslin spoke to the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr. Michael Masiapato.
Two months ago, the Nelspruit Magistrate's court in Mpumalanga found that illegal mining was the primary cause of the collapse of the Lily Mine in 2016. The court also found that three workers who were trapped underground - Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi, and Solomon Nyirenda - died instantly when the mine caved in. This comes after an inquest was established to determine if the three were indeed deceased, and whether anyone should be held responsible for their deaths. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi filed this report on how the families of the victims have been coping, seven years after the incident.
Anglican Archbishop Thabo Makgoba has called on citizens to stand up against war and the abuse of power. He was delivering his annual Christmas eve sermon at the St Georges's Cathedral in Cape Town. Makgoba was critical of the Hamas-Israel war and the the conflict in Sudan. As Mercedes Besent reports, the Anglican Archbishop was also scathing on the current State of the Nation of South Africa.
The electoral commission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has released partial results that show incumbent, President Felix Tshisekedi in the lead. Moise Katumbi, one of the main opposition candidates in Democratic Republic of Congo's 20 presidential election has called for the vote to be annulled because of massive fraud. Delays during Wednesday's election led to an extension of voting, which some opposition candidates and independent observers indicating it may compromise the credibility of the election. Elvis Preslin spoke to SABC correspondent in Kinchasa, Chris Ocamringa
The Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga says they have identified five priority provinces that contribute about 80% of road fatalities year-on- year- these provinces are KwaZulu Natal, Gauteng, Limpopo, Western and Eastern Cape. Chikunga said this during a media briefing on the release of provisional festive season road statistics and an update on the mid-term update on the country's road safety awareness campaign.
Firefighters are faced with extremely challenging conditions as they continue to fight a large fire that has been raging in Simons Town on the Cape Peninsula since Tuesday. About 97 households in Stonehaven were evacuated, as were residents of Scarborough. Several crews are continuing. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Cape Town fire and emergency spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse.
The ANC says it has reached an out-of-court settlement with Ezulweni following liquidation threats in relation to money owed to the media company. Earlier this month ANC general secretary Fikile Mbalula said they were shocked by Ezulweni's R102 million legal claim for services rendered in 2019.
Vote counting has begun in the Democratic Republic of Congo after elections were extended by another day until yesterday amidst opposition protest. The elections across Africa's second-largest country were extended due to delays in delivering election kits in several places and malfunctioning equipment. Voters also struggled to find their names on registers, while violence caused chaos in other places. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent Chris Ocamringa
Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says the electricity grid system has demonstrated good performance. However he's concerned about capacity loss factors, including unreliable units and partial load losses, hindering its performance. Despite these issues, the system showed signs of health, but maintaining consistency and addressing load shedding are crucial for achieving this. Ramokgopa, was briefing the media earlier on Thursday.
The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) says Solidarity is making false and spurious statements attempting to implicate it as being the perpetrator of the recent protest action at Gold One's Modder East operations and violence. AMCU was responding to accusations that the mine disregarded alleged atrocities suffered by the miners during the sit- in / hostage situation by AMCU members at Modder East mine in Springs, east of Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AMCU Secretary General, Jeff Mphahlele.
In August this year, one of the worst taxi strikes in the Western Cape started at short notice, leaving thousands of people stranded. Subsequently, at least five people were killed, over a 100 people arrested and damages of tens of millions of rand were reported. The strike was called by the South African National Taxi Council, or SANTACO, following the City of Cape Town's implementation of the National Land Transport Act. The city impounded non-compliant vehicles, which ignited the ire of taxi associations across the province, who claimed the industry was unfairly targeted. SABC reporter, Lerato Dlalisa reports.
The Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into the Usindiso Building Fire, Justice Sisi Khampempe, has recused Commissioner Advocate. Thulani Makhubela from the proceedings after a number of anti-foreign nationals and pro-Operation Dudula posts were found on his X account. The Commissioner was appointed to assist Justice Sisi Khampepe's investigation into the Usindiso building fire, which killed 77 people and injured 60 more. The Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI) brought the application, alleging that Makhubela made xenophobic remarks on the social media platform X. SERI also accuses the commissioner of being close to and actively supporting Operation Dudula, which is known for its anti-foreign-national views. In her ruling, Justice Sisi Khampempe delivering her rulling had this to say.
Some 44 million voters are registered to take part in the presidential, legislative, and regional votes today in the Democratic Republic of Congo as President Felix Tshisekedi seeks a second term. DRC voting commenced despite some calls for elections to be postponed amid fears about security in some areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Reporter, Ditaba Tsotetsi.
Three people are facing trial for the robbery at President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm in February 2020. Whilst the co-accused siblings, Froliana and David Joseph were granted bail in November, the alleged mastermind behind the robbery, Imanuela David, has been denied bail. The trio is facing charges of house breaking and theft of more than $580 000 from President Ramaphosa's Limpopo farm. Ramaphosa has been cleared of any wrong doing by all the investigating institutions. SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe has more.
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says they have been informed that some of their members are being held underground against their will by striking employee's at the Impala Bafokeng Platinum Mine in Rustenburg. Some of the miners who were part of the underground sit-in at the Impala Bafokeng Platinum Mine in Rustenburg in the North West, began resurfacing overnight. On Monday, over 2-thousand workers embarked on a sit-in protest underground over pension funds and employee share scheme. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Bafokeng Impala Platinum Mine Spokesperson, Johan Theron.
Continuing attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea have forced ships carrying vital goods to travel via the two-weeks long and more expensive Cape of Good Hope route around Africa. The attacks are reportedly perpetrated by Yemen's Houthi movement. The Iran-backed Houthi group has expressed that its attacking vessels in the Red Sea linked to Israel in protest against its military offensive in Gaza. Experts say as vessels gets re-routed around Africa shipping supply chains will be constrained as cargoes travel longer. SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo has more
Labour Union, Solidarity is set to take legal action against AMCU and the Gold One Mine over recent events at the mine at the Modder East facility in Springs. The union accuses the company of failing to act in the best interests of its employees during the sit-in/hostage situation, which they say included alleged humiliation, torture, and violations suffered by its members. They demand that the mine revoke suspensions and focus on holding perpetrators accountable. They also argue that Gold One's mandatory leave mandate is unlawful and that members will not report for duty until the company fulfills its legal obligations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Paul Mardon on behalf of Solidarity.
Oil company, British Petroleum (BP) says it is temporarily halting the shipment of oil and gas through the Red Sea, between Africa and Asia, after a series of attacks by Houthi militants against commercial vessels transiting the route. Five shipping companies have already made a similar decision, but BP is the first oil company to make the call to avoid the international shipping choke point. That means instead, vessels will most likely travel via the two-week longer and more expensive route, around the Cape of Good Hope. Stuart Smith has more from London.
MEC for Community Safety in the North West, Sello Lehari has engaged the community of Popo Molefe informal settlement after 9 people were killed in ongoing tensions between two groups over the alleged theft of stock. Lehari visited the families of the nine people killed at Popo Molefe informal settlement in Boitekong outside Rustenburg. The MEC is accompanied by the senior management of the department and the South African Police Service in the province. For more we're joined on the line by the MEC's spokesperson Lucas Mothibedi
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa has condemned Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan's refusal to hand over documents relating to the sale of South African Airways to Parliament. Numsa notes that the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises has unanimously agreed that it cannot provide unqualified support for the transaction for SAA to be sold to the Takatso Consortium. Last week, SAA tabled four years of annual financial statements in Parliament, which showed four years of financial losses and four disclaimed audit opinions. SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo has more.
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says it is currently in negotiations with management of Impala Bafokeng Platinum Mine, in Rustenburg, in an attempt to resolve the striking workers issues. Operations at the mine have been brought to a standstill as more than 2000 workers stage an underground sit-in protest. The workers are frustrated over a number of issues including employee share schemes and pension funds after the mine was bought by Impala. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM regional secretary, Geoffrey Moatshe.
Twelve of the more than 2000 mineworkers who've embarked on an underground sit-in at Impala Bafokeng Platinum mine in Rusternburg in the North West - have resurfaced due to them having chronic medical conditions. The sit-in protest which began yesterday has since brought operations at the mine to a standstill. The workers are frustrated over a number of issues including employee share schemes and pension funds after the mine was bought by Impala. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Hasina Gori.
The OR Tambo District Chamber of Business is calling for a joint effort between business and government in the Eastern Cape, to craft a strategy to ensure there are more police deployed to secure businesses in the area. This as some businesses in Mthatha are closing down because of syndicates alleged to be demanding protection fees from all businesses of foreign origin. As a result, a number of filling stations have closed their doors. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Secretary of the OR Tambo District Chamber of Business and Secretary of the KSD Chamber of Business, Dr. Andile Nontso.
Five men accused of beating and burning to death seven people in Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg are expected to apply for bail today in the Randburg Magistrate's Court. The accused face five counts of murder and attempted murder, assault, kidnapping and malicious damage to property. One of the accused is facing a further charge of contravening the Immigration Act. The seven people were killed in an alleged mob attack incident earlier this month. During a previous court appearance the spouse of one of the accused - who wished to remain anonymous - expressed her disappointment at the postponement of the matter
The Alexandra Magistrates Court in Johannesburg has heard that 21-year-old student Bafana Mahungela was not informed of his rights and was not handed a search warrant upon his arrest last month. Mahungela is continuing his bail application after he was arrested for the alleged premeditated murder and rape of Johannesburg teacher Kirsten Kluyts. The 34-year-old Delta Park High School English teacher was murdered while taking part in a local sporting event in October.
Political Analyst and Worldwide Institute of Leadership and Development founder, Professor Mazwe Majola says the recent announcement by former president Jacob Zuma that he is endorsing a new political party ahead of the 2024 elections, is an attempt to destabilise the African National Congress. Zuma announced that he would be voting for the newly-formed uMkhonto Wesizwe political party and has called on other ANC, MKMVA members, and South Africans to vote for the new organisation. SABC News reporter, Busi Chimombe has more.
The families of nine people who were shot dead in a home in an informal settlement in Boitekong outside Rustenburg are expected to identify their loved ones today. Local residents say the motive for the mass shooting in the North West on Saturday night is linked to a conflict over stock theft. No arrests have been made. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Tebogo Phakedi
Impala Bafokeng Platinum is threatening legal action against any employee who participates in an illegal underground protest. Disgruntled Impala mineworkers are reportedly planning an underground sit-in due to several issues with the mine and labour union, NUM. One major concern for the workers is the 140 million allegedly spent by the union on buying shares in the mine. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
As South Africans across the land enjoy a day off with loved ones, it's easy to forget the true meaning behind why President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the 15th of December as a public holiday. To help us remember the true reason for this esteemed day, SAfm Sport Anchor, Jon Gericke takes us on a short trip down memory lane.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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South Africa's new R105-billion green ammonia project is going to be a big boost for the Eastern Cape.
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A Johannesburg-listed mining company is recovering valuable copper from old mine dumps in Zambia.
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South Africans need to work together to grow the local mining sector, which has been shrinking since 1994.
Martin Creamer will be taking a well-earned break and will be back at the Coal-Face again on Friday, the 19th of January 2024.
87% of people murdered in South Africa are men. That's according to a study by the University of Cape Town and the South African Medical Research Council. The study reveals that South African men are significantly burdened with homicide. The country has one of the highest homicide rates, six times the global average. Men are killed eight times higher in the 15-44 age group compared to women in all age groups. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Morna Cornell, senior researcher at UCT's School of Public Health.
Law enforcement officers have been deployed to strategic areas throughout Mpumalanga to ensure the safety of members of the public, motorists and passengers. The Road Traffic Management Corporation, the provincial Transport Department and Health launched their safety plans anticipating high traffic volumes on the N4, N12 and other major provincial roads. Provincial police Commissioner, Semakaleng Manamela visited the Lebombo Border Post with Mozambique to assess the state of readiness. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Simon Zwane, spokesperson for the Road Traffic Managament Corporation...
President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently delivering a keynote address at the SAPS passing-out parade in the Northern Cape, where 1400 newly trained officers will be certified ready to fight crime. In total 10 thousand new police recruits are getting their pass-out from training across seven provinces this week. The new recruits will be deployed across all provinces in an effort to boost the fight against crime. Ramaphosa congratulated the recruits on their success.
Economic activity in South Africa decreased in the third quarter of 2023 as real gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 0.2% following a revised expansion of 0.5% in the second quarter. This is according to the newly released Quartely Bulletin by the South African Reserve Bank which outlines the current state of the economy in terms of spending, impact of interest rates, inflation, growth and investment. The report also shows that growth in labour productivity in the formal non-agricultural sector slowed further from 0.6% in the first quarter of 2023 to no growth in the second quarter as year-on-year employment growth exceeded that in output. To unpack this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Iaan Venter, Head of Business Cycle Analysis Unit at the South African Reserve Bank
Northern Cape Premier, Zamani Saul has received backlash on social media platforms following his tweet on Tuesday where he announced that 540 flushing toilets will be constructed at a cost of R120 million, in an effort to eradicate bucket and pit toilets. X users questioned the budget of the project, with some demanding a breakdown of this cost. However, some Campbell residents who are using bucket and pit toilets have welcomed the announcement, stating that the project will also create employment. SABC News reporter, Karabo Siyoko filed this report.
Parliament's Powers and Privileges Committee has heard that three Economic Freedom Fighters MPs blatantly disregarded and disrespected the authority of the Speaker. This is according to the initiator of the hearings into the behaviour of Veronia Mente, Khanya Ceza and Nazier Paulsen. The committee heard closing arguments based on the evidence that was brought during hearings into an incident that saw the MPs disrupt a session with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The evidence includes video footage of the events that unfolded during Ramaphosa's oral reply session, where the trio was removed form the Good Hope Chamber for disrupting proceedings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mercedes Besent.
Two suspects who were arrested on charges of human trafficking after they were found boarding a bus with 14 undocumented children have appeared at the Kimberley Magistrate's Court. The accused were arrested last week Tuesday in Kimberley after they were seen travelling with the children between the ages of 6 and 14 years. The children, believed to be from Zimbabwe, were rescued from the pair and are currently kept at a place of safety around Kimberley. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Clement Matroos.
Health Ombudsman Professor Taole Mokoena and Minister of Health Dr Joe Phaahla have expressed outrage at the actions of two nurses from a clinic in Motherwell, Nelson Mandela Bay. This comes after the nurses sent a raped teenager, Zenizole Vena, who was in desperate need of medical attention, to walk to a police station. Vena died a few hours later. Health Ombud Professor Mokoena has asked for a disciplinary hearing and that the nurses be reported to the South African Nursing Council. Mokoena say the nurses negligence contributed to Vena's death. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Health Ombudsman Professor Taole Mokoena
The urgent application by the Minister of Labour, Thulas Nxesi against Thuja Capital has been moved to the 25th of January 2024. The labour and Employment Minister wants the R5-billion UIF contract awarded to Thuja Capital to be set aside. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mpumelelo Maphalala.
Several local textile manufacturers have been using their poor black employees as fronts to achieve higher BEE scores to secure big contracts with major clothing retailers. The National Bargaining Council for the Clothing Manufacturing Industry, called for tighter legislation in addressing fronting practices that it says, undermine the country's laws. A blitz inspection in KwaZulu-Natal by officials from the bargaining council, led by the Department of Employment and Labour, uncovered widespread fronting in the textile and clothing manufacturing sector. The implicated companies were found to have registered their employees with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, CIPC, as directors, without the workers' knowledge and with no benefits.
Parliament's Public Enterprises Committee met today to discuss and consider evidence submitted by the Minister Pravin Gordhan and Former Director-General of the department of Public Enterprises , Kgathatso Thlakudi on the allegations of irregularities in the SAA transaction. The committee heard from the two of them after the former DG accused the minister of interfering to favour Takatso as the preferred bidder for a 51 percent stake in SAA. Rodney Mnisi, Committee Content Advisor gives outlines a report on what has transpired during the sittings of the committee on this matter
Economists have warned that this year's Christmas promises to be one of the most expensive in recent years. This despite the consumer price index declining from five-point-nine percent in October to five-point-five percent in November 2023. The slight decrease has been attributed a decrease in the fuel price however the annual food & non-alcoholic beverages have accelerated to a four-month high of nine percent. Chief Director for Price Statistics at StatsSA, Patrick Kelly, elaborates further...
The South African music industry has come out to express their grief and sadness at the passing away of multi-award winning songstress Bulelwa Mkutukana, better known as Zahara. The 35-year-old died at a Johannesburg hospital last night. The music icon, released five studio albums, with her 2011 debut album, Loliwe, going double platinum. Over the last decade, she became one of South Africa's most popular musicians, know for her originality. Following the news of her passing, social media platforms have been flooded with messages of condolence, as fans and admirers express their shock and condolences. SABC reporter, Prabashini Moodley has more.
PetroSA has confirmed cabinet's approval of Russia's Gazprombank as the preferred strategic partner for the 3,7-billion-rand deal to restart the gas-to-liquids refinery in Mossel Bay. The fuel refinery was closed for maintenance in 2020 following the depletion of offshore gas feedstocks. Amid concerns of US sanctions imposed on Russian companies, including Gazprombank, government has argued that South Africa is committed to increasing trade and investment partnerships with its fellow BRICS nations. Naledi Ngcobo reports
The Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town has welcomed the Constitutional Court judgement which declared that the January 2020 amendments to the Refugees Act, infringes the constitutional rights of asylum seekers. The unanimous decision was delivered by Justice Steven Majiedt earlier on today. Delivering judgemnt, Justice Majiedt says the new provisions to the ACT also infringed on the rights of the children of Asylum seekers...
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has approved the process to secure an additional generating capacity from nuclear. South Africa will procure an additional 2,500 megawatts (MW) of new generation capacity from nuclear sources to counter the rolling blackouts that have plagued the country. Addressing the media , Electricity Minister - Kgosientso Ramokgopa said the procurement of nuclear energy would assist the country to achieve a generation mix required to reach the envisaged demand and to ensure the country's energy security in the future. Electricity Minister - Kgosientso Ramokgopa elaborates
The Powers and Privileges Committee has resumed the hearing of some Economic Freedom Fighters, who were physically removed from the Good Hope Chamber during an oral question and answer session with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The members, who are charged with contempt of parliament, are appearing before the committee after the Western Cape High Court dismissed their urgent interdict application on the matter. The EFF members disrupted the president when he was presenting the presidency budget vote and the President's question session in the national Assembly. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary reporter, Mercedes Besent
Minister in the presidency Khumbuzo Ntshaveni says Cabinet has approved the national state enterprise bill following the submission of a bill to Parliament for the establishment of a state-owned holding company, SOC Limited. Ntshaveni was briefing the media earlier today on the outcomes of the Special Cabinet meeting that was held on Friday, 8th December 2023. Minister Ntshaveni Elaborates
The over 400 mine workers at GoldOne mine in Springs, East of Johannesburg who failed to resurface last Thursday have started to come out from underground. It is alleged that the workers were held hostage by unknown individuals wearing baklavas, and with some showing signs of being assaulted. It is also believed this was a sit-in protest following the October labour dispute. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gold One mine spokesperson and legal counsel of GoldOne mine, Ziyaad Hassam
The over 400 mine workers that did not re-surface last Thursday at one of the GoldOne shafts in Springs on the East Rand, have now come out of the mine. The workers have allegedly been held hostage by unknown individuals wearing baclavas with some displaying signs of being assaulted. Some also believe that this is was a sit-protest that came out of the October labour dispute over organising rights at the mine. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mpumelelo Maphalala
The Limpopo Provincial Police have intercepted minibus taxis carrying over 100 undocumented foreign nationals from Zimbabwe heading to Polokwane. The vehicles were found to be overloaded with 73 underage children, women, and males. Last week, the Border Management Authority, announced that it had intercepted 42 buses carrying unaccompanied children from Zimbabwe at the Beitbridge border post in Musina. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Limpopo provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba
At least 400 hundred mineworkers are reported to have not re-surfaced at one of the Shafts of the GoldOne mine in Springs The GoldOne mine has been marred in recent weeks with a siatuation where some mineworkers want AMCU to be recognised as an official union alongside the National Union of Mineworkers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to regional organiser for the National Union of Mineworkers, Victor Ngwane.
The Mpumalanga police launched a manhunt for three women, who allegedly gang-raped a 28 year old man in Kabokweni near White River. The victim who is gay has opened a case of rape against the women of whom two are known to him. The victim says he was called by the two women, who requested assistance to move a bed. Upon entering the bedroom, the third women emerged from behind the door. The police report that the three women overpowered the victim and allegedly gang raped him until the next morning. SABC reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng has more.
The Southern African Music Rights Organization (SAMRO) has commissioned a forensic investigation into allegations of irregular royalty claims by some members. The report confirmed that some members were fraudulently claiming royalties that did not belong to them. The investigation revealed weaknesses in SAMRO's internal controls and recommended remedial measures to mitigate future occurrences. The case has been handed over for investigation to the South African Police. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAMRO chairperson, Nicholas Maweni.
Two suspects accused of trafficking fourteen undocumented children are expected to appear in the Kimberley Magistrates Court today. The suspects were arrested in Kimberley after they were seen travelling with the children - aged between six and fourteen - on a bus from Midrand in Johannesburg to Cape Town. The Hawks in the Northern Cape say the children had no additional clothes or bags on them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC, reporter Margaret Mothibi.
The South African Defence Force has described allegations related to a torture squad operating within the force as mere fabrications. Chief of the SANDF, General Rhudzani Maphwanya has been addressing the media in Pretoria where he encouraged anyone with information to the contrary, to approach law enforcements agencies. General Maphwanya has been responding to a report by NGO, Open Secrets which details allegations of torture, kidnapping and murder within the force. Open Secrets also claims the squad is responsible for the murder of Hawks Investigator, Colonel Frans Mathipa, who was shot in the head in August while investigating the SANDF. General Maphwanya maintains that all recent allegations about the SANDF are without merit.
The family of the two initiates who were shot dead together with their brother at an initiation school at Ngcwazi Village in the Eastern Cape, is calling on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in apprehending the perpetrators. The Busakwe family from Ngqamakwe is still in shock following the shooting of its family members. Another Busakwe brother is in a stable condition in hospital. The motive behind the incident is unknown. Sdima Mfeku reports
The Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare in Zimbabwe, July Moyo has denied claims that 42 buses carrying 443 unaccompanied children under the age of eight were intercepted at the Beitbridge border post. The Minister says Zimbabwe authorities have no record of any buses being denied entry to South Africa or intercepted or handed over to Zimbabwe authorities. He was speaking in the Zimbabwe national parliament. This comes after Boarder management authority Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato, during a media briefing on Sunday, said the newly established BMA intercepted 443 children, under the age of 8, who were trafficked from Zimbabwe into South Africa and were intercepted by border patrollers on suspicion of human trafficking activities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to South Africa's Minister Of Home Affairs, Minister Aaron Motsoaledi and Spokesperson for the Government of Zimbabwe, Nick Mangwana.
The Commission of Inquiry into Usindiso Building Fire in Marshalltown in which 77 people were killed and dozens more injured resumed its hearings today. The commission is hearing an application from the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI) , to have Advocate Thulani Makhubela recused as one of the inquiry's commissioners. Seri has told the commission there is a risk of prejudice if Advocate Thulani Makhubela continues as commisioner because of his views on social media. SABC's Prabashni Moodley
Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo says the Judges conference currently taking place at the Sun City Resort in North West must be used to ensure decisions taken must guarantee that the administration of justice in South Africa is put to a higher level. Chief Justice Raymond Zondo was delivering the key note address at the three day Judges conference. The aim of this gathering is to discuss matters of interests to the Judiciary in relation to its constitutional role and mandate. Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo elaborates
The African National Congress has approached the Constitutional Court in a bid to overturn the Johannesburg High Court order to liquidate it. This follows the over 100 million rand owed to the Durban based company Ezulwini Investments. The ANC says it feels it was overcharged and wanted the matter to be set-aside. It also wanted criminal charges pursued against some party members who were involved in what it calls irregular and fraudulent activities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sharfique Sarlie who is a lawyer for the KwaZulu-Natal based printing and marketing company, Ezulwini Investments.
South Africa's economy has contracted by 0.2% in the 3rd quarter of 2023. The contributions to the decrease in the Gross Domestic Product figure came from the agriculture, manufacturing, mining, construction and trade industries. Household final consumption expenditure also decreased by 0.3%, while total gross fixed capital formation decreased by 3.4%. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to independent economist, Elize Kruger.
The Constitutional Court has handed down judgement on the constitutionality of the Electoral Amendment Act regarding independent candidates aiming to contest the national and provincial elections in 2024. The matter brought by the Independent Candidates Association and Mmusi Maimane's, One Movement SA. The applicants contest the Act's constitutionality on the grounds that it does not ensure a level playing field between political parties and independent candidates. Justice Nonkosi Mhlantla delivered the judgement on Monday.
East Rand police have rescued about 33 suspected human trafficking victims after they were found in a house in Boksburg. This search was in connection with a case where a foreign national was kidnapped in Springfield last week and investigations led the police to the house. To look at scourge of human trafficking in South Africa, Udo Carelse spoke to Chantell Kramer, National Human Trafficking Hotline Manager at The A21 Campaign.
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has announced the extension of special permits for Zimbabweans and Basotho living in South Africa for another two years until November 2025. Motsoaledi was speaking at a media briefing on the granting of exemption to Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals in terms of Section 2 sub-section B of the Immigration Act Number 13 of 2002. These directives will be published in the government gazette on Monday. Motsoaledi further elaborates on his directive regarding the Lesotho nationals.
As the world marks World Aids Day today, this week the Human Sciences Research Council released a report revealing that although KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and the Free State have the highest number of people infected with HIV, they've managed to increase viral suppression by nothing less than 80%. Meanwhile, Doctors without Borders says it will close its long-term HIV and TB projects in Eshowe and Mbongolwane in Kwazulu Natal, ending the organization's more than 20 years of continuous HIV/TB operations in South Africa.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sean Christie, Advocacy Manager at Doctors Without Borders
Dr. Basim Naim, a senior leader of the Hamas militant group and former Palestinian Health Minister, says the ongoing oppression of Palestinians in the West Bank is not only a threat to the Palestinian people but also a business of terrorism. Some members of the group's leadership are in South Africa to participate in the Fifth Global Convention of Solidarity with Palestine which takes place next week. Naim's remarks come as a temporary cease-fire deal that lasted seven days expired on Friday without word from mediator, Qatar on an extension. This comes as the war in the Middle East ranges on, with fighting in Gaza resuming, minutes after the truce ended. Earlier, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the senior leader of Hamas, Dr. Basim Naim.
Former Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng says that President Cyril Ramaphosa had a duty to disclose who funded the CR17 campaign. Mogoeng was delivering the 2023 SAFM inaugural lecture under the theme: "Constitutionalism and upholding the rule of law in South Africa". SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga has more.
Over 100 law firms, including sheriffs, are being investigated for looting R340m in state funds by submitting duplicate claims to the Road Accident Fund. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has referred 12 law firms or legal practitioners to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) for criminal prosecution consideration. The SIU has found that R317m has been recouped. The SIU has signed Acknowledgment of Debt ("AOD") to the value of R70m with actual amount recoveries to date amounting to R41m. The SIU is also probing procurement and tender irregularities, payments made to service providers, and the possible inflation of invoices by service providers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
The Department of Social Development has denied claims that it pays the GBV Command call centerR45 million per month for the contract. It has also rejected claims that the center has collapsed. According to a news reports, Minister Lindiwe Zulu is at loggerheads with her deputy minister, Hendrieta Bogopane Zulu, about the appointment of an IT company to run the GBV Command Center. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the Department of Social Development, Lumka Oliphant.
A girl who went missing 13 years ago might soon be-reunited with her family in Bushbuckridge. The family of the girl is waiting on the results of a DNA test. The 19 - year old reportedly went missing while she was only 6 years old. A woman has been arrested in connection to her disappearance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC, reporter Eric Lubisi.
Auditor General Tsakani Maluleke says the number of clean audits has increased significantly. She was briefing the Standing Committee on the AG on the audit outcomes of the National and Provincial governments for the 2022/23 financial year. The AG added that the trend of improvement has been seen in the last four years and more rapidly in the past year.
The CEO of ArcelorMittal South Africa, Kobus Verster, says the company is open to engagement and consultation processes with labour, the government, and various stakeholders. This is as the company has announced plans to cut up to 3-thousand 500 jobs as it's forced to shut down its long steel products business (e.g., railway tracks). The company has blamed negative steel demand growth and the state of instability of Transnet and Eskom issues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Donald MacKay, CEO of XA Global Trade Advisors
Parliaments' Police Committee has adopted its report on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate Amendment Bill. This bill aims to strengthen the independence of the directorate, and includes the issue of the appointment of its Executive Director. The bill has been widely criticised because the appointment of the Executive Director still lies with the Minister of Police and Cabinet. Before starting the committee process, both the state law advisor and Parliament's legal services indicated that the bill was not constitutional because of this. The bill is supposed to address the appointment of the Executive Director, following a Constitutional Court judgment in 2016 that the removal of the then IPID head, Robert McBride, by the minister was unconstitutional. Zalene Merrington reports...
A legal drama is unfolding in Britain's Supreme Court, involving South African government's attempt to strike out claim for salvage of silver from wartime wreck. The dispute relates to the ownership of cargo (bars of silver) carried by a ship that sank in 1942 & raises questions of state immunity. Over R873m (about £37m) worth of silver meant for the SA Mint in 1942 was salvaged off the East Coast and taken to the UK. Now the SA government wants it back. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a lawyer at international firm Volterra Fietta, Jehad Mustafa
The Multi-Party Charter comprising eight opposition parties is holding a gathering of civil society organisations in Boksburg, east of Johannesburg ahead of the 2024 general election. The purpose of the meeting is solicit views from different community organisations and to bring about a political change in South Africa. DA leader, John Steenhuisen says the enemy is not the ANC but poverty, unemployment and criminality
Operations at the Impala Platinum Mine remain suspended following a freak accident at Shaft 11 late in the afternoon Yesterday. Family members of the deceased mine workers have since made their way to the mine premises for further details. For the latest from the mine, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zebilon Maine and National Union of Mineworkers spokesperson, Livhuwani Mammburu
The Impala Platinum Mine in Rustenburg in the North West says all 86 employees involved in an elevator accident are accounted for. Eleven people died while 75 others sustained injuries. The injured have been transferred to hospitals around Rustenburg. The mining company says rescue operations have been complete and operations will be suspended at its 11 shaft in Rustenburg until further notice. Mineral Resources Minister, Gwede Manatshe and CEO and executive director, Nicolas Muller brief media as investigations into the accident get underway.
Four- members of the same family in Imfume- south of Durban have been shot and killed this morning. The family's surviving son says he was woken up by his mother's screams, and heard gunshots- but he does not know why the attack happened. SABC Reporter, Vusi Khumalo caught up with family survivor and KwaZulu Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda
Volkswagen (VW) is refuting reports that it's threatening to leave the country if the government fails to fix the country's regulatory, energy and logistics problems. VW directly employs 3-thousand 500 people and contributes 6.4% of GDP. The logistics and energy crises in SA pose a huge threat to many companies' productivity. Now to get more on this matter we're now joined on the line by VW spokesperson Andile Dlamini
The national estimate of HIV prevalence in South Africa for all ages in 2022 was 12.7 percent which translated to 7.8 million people living with HIV in 2022.This is according to The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) which is currently releasing its sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence, Behaviour and Communication Survey results. The study is a population-based, cross-sectional survey of households throughout South Africa that gathers information on HIV incidence, prevalence, and other related indicators in South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tom Boyles, Senior technical advisor at Right to Care
Early this year, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced the creation of a new unit of crime fighters as part of his anti-crime strategy. The Gauteng government defines Crime Prevention Wardens (CPWs) as a "multiplier force" with the aim of amplifying responsiveness and police visibility in communities. The Crime Prevention Wardens are supposed to monitor and police Gauteng 24 hours a day. However, the unit has raised concerns about its role and how it was established. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Premier's Spokesperson Sizwe Pamla
Eskom has escalated load shedding to stage 6 until 05h00 on Monday. The escalation follows warnings all week that the grid is highly volatile and only being kept under control through lower demand and less maintenance. Eskom has experienced a rise in breakdowns over the past few weeks, which forced the group to escalate to stage 4 on Wednesday. According to data compiled by the shedding schedule app EskomSePush, the country has endured over 270 days of load shedding this year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom board chairperson Mteto Nyati
The Department of Social Development and the Mjejane community in Mpumalanga embarked on a 3-day program to raise awareness about child protection and address concerns about the practice of Fulelani Nganeno, also known as "ukuthwala. Several social activist in Mjejana village in Mpumalanga, wrote petitions to the Human Rights Commission and Department of Social Development to say enough is enough about the practice of ukuthwala, where girls as young as 12 years old are sexually exploited or coerced by older men into relationships. the men reportedly impregnate the girls and pay off their families to stop them from opening criminal cases. Sakina Kamwendo on UpdateAtNoon spoke to Gustav Wilson, who is a chief director from the department of the social development in Mpumalanga
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi briefed the media in relation to allegations of corruption made a few weeks ago by Thuja Holdings CEO, Mthunzi Mdwaba. Nxesi, together with two other Cabinet ministers, are alleged to have demanded bribes of five hundred million rands from a five billion unemployment insurance fund (UIF) bid aimed at creating job opportunities for the UIF. The two other ministers are Higher Education Minister Dr. Blade Nzimande, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula. All implicated individuals have disputed the alleged claims of corruption, and Minister Nxesi says he intends on setting aside the Thuja agreement and will not be releasing the funds to Ndwaba's company. Nxesi explains...
Age-old lease agreements between the City of Durban and an iconic hotel group are coming to an end. This is putting pressure on the city's covert golden mile. Lease agreements for the Southern Sun's Elangani and Maharani hotels expire at the end of 2025. The hotel group and the municipality are reportedly at loggerheads over market value for rental. The city has put out a tender notice for interested bidders. Sakina Kamwendo on UpdateAtNoon Spoke to Head of Real Estate at the eThekwini municipality, Thapelo Mmusinyane
Two hotels in Durban are allegedly at loggerheads with the eThekwini Municipality over a lease agreement that is due to end in 2025. The Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani hotels, located on the Golden Mile of the city, have been paying one-thousand-250 rands in rent to the municipality as per an agreement reached in 1965. Sakina Kamwendo on UpdateAtNoon spoke to SABC reporter Vusi Makhosini
The National Assembly has passed the Economic Freedom Fighters' motion - amended by the African National Congress - with 248 MPs voting in favour of the closure of the Israeli Embassy until a ceasefire has been agreed on. The original motion by the EFF called for the Israeli Embassy to be closed and all diplomatic ties with Israel to be suspended. The motion was supported by the EFF, the ANC, Al Jama-ah, NFP, ATM and the PAC. 91 MPs from the DA, ACDP, FF-PLUS and IFP voted against the motion. Executive Director of the Handy Concept for Connecting People Global Think Tank and global affairs analyst, Simon Alain Handy.
Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Finance has decided to allow members of retirement funds early access to their pension funds from next year. The committee agreed to introduce the two-pot pension system from the 1st of March 2024. This is despite the National Treasury recommending that the new system should start in 2025. Other stakeholders feel an extended period will give them enough time to amend their systems and to refine the implementation plan and address potential challenges. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to tax partner at Webber Wentzel, Joon Chong.
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts has been briefed on the progress of made at the South African Airways by the office of the Auditor general and the Special Investigating Unit following investigations into the national carrier. The Auditor general's office has noted that there is not much progress made regarding SAA's financial statements. Deputy Business Executive at Auditor General of South Africa, Fhumulani Rabonda has also highlighted some of the issues encountered while auditing SAA.
The South African Association of Freight Forwarders has warned as critical the state of the country's freight industry. The association was responding to a reported notice by Transnet announcing the entity's intention to suspend receiving of all cargo brought to its Richards Bay ports of entry via road. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Maritime Affairs at the South African Association of Freight Forwarders, Mike Walwyn, who says the situation cannot be fixed overnight.
Transnet is reportedly circulating a notice announcing that it will suspend the receiving of all cargo that is brought to the ports via road freight (trucks). This comes as the entity announced an urgent programme to acquire equipment for the country's busy ports of entry. The group's chairperson Sandile Sangqu says a long period of under-development and ageing infrastructure are affecting state-owned ports and the railway network. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu.
An alleged gang leader of a notorious Westbury gang, the Varados, has been shot and killed in the parking lot of a shopping complex on 14th Avenue in Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg. The circumstances surrounding the incident are unclear. However, it is believed to be an apparent hit. Gauteng police are yet to confirm this. The incident occurred around 10 a.m. this morning, as the alleged gang leader was leaving the parking lot of a popular gym on 14th Avenue. Sources say the alleged gang leader was approached by unknown gunmen while sitting inside a brownish-grey VW Polo close to the boom gate of the parking lot, waiting for it to open so he could exit. Sakina Kamwendo on update at Noon spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
Impoverished families are forced to hunt and eat monkey meat in the community of Cwebeni, in the Eastern Cape. This follows a recent report by South African Human Rights Commission which found that over 100 children died from malnutrition in the province between 2021 & 2022. More than 60 starving toddlers in the Port St Johns community are forced to daycare on empty stomachs. In this village many children are malnourished and some of their parents rely on hunting monkeys in the jungle to feed their children. SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi filed this report
The Boarder Management Authority has joined forces with the South African Revenue Service to pilot a system that seeks to co-locate in truck canopies at the Lebombo Boarder Post, to ease delays in the movement of trucks. The Authority says the process will ensure the processing of truck drivers without requiring the disembarkment of truckers from their vehicles. The news comes days after tensions between taxi and truck driver reached a tipping point at the Boarder Post, resulting in the torching of at least vehicle last week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Assistant Commissioner at the Boarder Management Authority , Stephen Van Neel
Transnet is currently briefing the media about the rollout of a temporary recovery plan aimed at clearing backlog at its ports. In a statement on Friday, Transnet said several initiatives had been implemented to clear the backlog but has also cautioned that it will take months to clear Durban port backlog. Durban port handles 60% of South Africa's container traffic. Acting Group Chief executive at Transnet , Michelle Phillips explains....
Tensions between Taxi and Trucks Drivers have intensified at the Lebombo Border Post, in Mpumalanga with at least one vehicle reportedly set alight. Truck drivers are demanding that systems at the border be made efficient. SABC's reporter, Nhlamulo Mabasa has more details
The City of Ekurhuleni says motorists whose vehicles have been impounded for various transgressions have until the 11th of December...that's NEXT MONTH, to come forward and claim their cars before the city auctions them off. The City says 753 vehicles are currently in their possession and that owners of the vehicles will be held liable for expenses incurred for the storage and removal of the vehicles. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni, Zweli Dlamini.
Police have urged insurance companies to put in systems in place in order to detect fraudulent insurance claims which have led to the death of relatives within the same family. This comes as a 49-year-old woman is expected to appear in the Mmabatho Magistrate's court in the North West on a charge of murder. It is alleged that she murdered her relative in order to benefit from insurance claims. Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe explains further.
Non Profit Organisation, the Ground Work Collective has kicked off a campaign aimed at encouraging young people to register for the upcoming 2024 general elections. The campaign comes as the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) hold its first Voter Registration drive this weekend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the founder of Ground Work Collective, Mbali Ntuli.
Consumers have been paying close attention to the terms of their insurance policies as insurance companies process an influx of claims in the wake of property damages caused by recent hailstorms in parts of the country. Some of the areas affected by the storms include Rosebank, Midrand and Soweto in Gauteng. For a look at how such damages impact the average insurance policy holder, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Insurance Risk Manager at South African Insurance Association, Zakes Sondiyazi.
The humanitarian group, Gift of the Givers says the head of its office in Gaza had been killed in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Founder Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, says Ahmed Abbasi and his brother were killed when they returned from morning prayers on Thursday.
The National Assembly is expected to debate a motion today at 2pm in the name of EFF leader, Julius Malema. The motion is on the possible removal of the Israel embassy in Pretoria and the suspension of relations between South Africa and Israel. For some expert analysis to all these latest developments, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Chris Landsberg, Chair of African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at the University of Johannesburg.
Retired police Brigadier Jap Burger, has just concluded his engagement with members of Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts. Burger has assured committee members that state capture still remains prevalent at many of the country's State Owned Enterprises. He also confirmed the prevalence of organised syndicates operating at different spheres at Eskom. Burger concluded by advising parliament to look at corruption as a symptom of organised crime and that the National Security Council should consider the situation at Eskom as a key priority to the country's stability.
The Independent Electoral Commission is once again encouraging South Africans to register this coming weekend as the country prepares for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections. The IEC was briefing the media earlier, on the state of readiness ahead of the voter registration weekend. Sy Mamabolo, IEC Chief Electoral Officer explains
The Competition Commission and Standard Chartered Bank have reached an agreement after eight years of litigation. The agreement comes as 27 other banks allegedly involved in collusion are appearing before the Commission. The collusion relates to foreign exchange markets, specifically rand-dollar exchanges, dating as from back as 2015. The banks are seeking an order to set aside a Competition Tribunal's order of March 2023. The banks have approached the Competition Appeal Court to seek determination on whether South African competition authorities have the jurisdiction to prosecute them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nothando Magudulela
Tender mafia tendencies are becoming common in the construction sector. Construction on the Gauteng government's Mega Housing Project in Durban Deep in the far west of Johannesburg, is on hold as a result of a dispute over who should receive a portion of multimillion-rand contracts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to head of communication of the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements,Tahir Sema.
Gold One mine's plan to resume operations this morning were dashed following violent confrontations between the workers and police outside the mine in the east of Johannesburg. The mine had to deploy a heavy police contingent and private security following the torching of a worker's car. Operations have been halted for almost a week as the mine continues to count the losses by the day. The workers are demanding that the employer expedite the balloting process for the new majority union AMCU. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AMCU's Head of Department for Organisational Development, Krister Janse Van Rensburg
The Independent Electoral Commission says it has optimised its systems to ensure registration and voting runs smoothly. The IEC was briefing the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on their readiness for the Voter Registration Weekend on the 18 and 19 of November 2023. IEC Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Masego Sheburi explains.
South Africa's unemployment rate has decreased. Total employment increased by 399 thousand to 16,7 million in 3rd quarter of 2023. This increase is the 8th consecutive increase and second-largest increase since 4th quarter of 2021. The official unemployment rate currently stands at 31,9 %, a decrease of 0,7 of a percentage point compared to 2nd quarter of 2023. Statistics South Africa released today for its Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the third quarter. Earlier this year the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) warned that South Africa's youth unemployment rate, which stands at a record high, is a potential threat to social stability. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to economics adviser at the UNDP South Africa, Rogers Dliwayo
The suspect accused of brutal murder of a colleague at Leseding Hostel in Carltonville has appeared in the Westonaria Magistrates court. The perpetrator is alleged to have stabbed the victim multiple times outside the Leseding Hostel in Carltonville on Gauteng's west Rand. The suspect then took a selfie next the corpse which found its way to social media. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC, reporter Horisani Sithole
Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements and Infrastructure Development, Lebogang Maile says a report into loans issued by the Gauteng Partnership Fund to Nonkwelo Investments is not conclusive. This follows allegations that Nonkwelo Ivestments, which is owned by Nceba Nonkwelo, who is the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile's son in law, benefited from loans from the GPF which amount to at least 30-Million rands. MEC Maile addressed the media earlier explaining some of the findings of the report...
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called for child malnutrition in the Eastern Cape to be declared a disaster in terms of the Disaster Management Act. The commission recently released a report that found that 120 children died of malnutrition in the province between 2021 and 2022. The report also found that over 1 000 children were diagnosed with acute malnutrition in the province, in the same period. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to South African Human Rights Commission Provincial Manager, Dr Eileen Carter.
The National Correctional Services Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale says a total of 54 detainees at the Pollsmoor Correctional Center in the Western Cape have been identified as having contact with the first person who died of Diphtheria at the prison and have been isolated, while a total of 8 have tested positive for diphtheria and 46 have tested negative. The department has also identified 15 correctional service officials with only 3 presenting symptoms who were tested and released to be isolated at home. Thobakgale was briefing the media on the Diphtheria outbreak at Pollsmoor Correctional Facility. This follows the death of a 19-year-old inmate more than a week ago. Thobakgale, elaborates.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Next year's Olympics will be hydrogen driven which is a big boost for South Africa's platinum mining.
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Critical rare earth minerals being mined in Phalaborwa this week caught the eye of global investors.
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Renewable energy is poised to save South Africa's biggest gold-mining company a whopping R3.6 billion.
Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise says anyone in conflict with the law in South Africa, shall and will be dealt with harshly. She was speaking at the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster media briefing earlier today to update on security issues. This briefing comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the deployment of 3,300 soldiers in cooperation with the South African Police Service to tackle illegal mining and the construction Mafia under Operation Prosper. The operation seeks to prevent and combat crime and maintain and preserve the law. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a Policing Expert at Stellenbosch University, Dr Guy Lamb
Teacher union SADTU says it has taken a resolution to suspend its picket in several schools across KwaZulu-Natal. The picket led to internal examinations up to Grade 11 disrupted since Monday. SADTU held a march in Durban in the middle of last month to demands that the KZN Education Department complaining about non-payment of budget allocations to schools. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to provincial secretary of Sadtu in Kwazulu-Natal, Nomarashiya Caluza.
Baby savers and safe havens across Gauteng are up in arms after the Gauteng Department of Social Development declared all private temporary safe care homes illegal and ordered their immediate closure. In its directive, the department cited concerns with the legal implications in the care and protection of children, as well as the responsibilities of parents to the child. For more on this we are joined on the line by Baby Saver Founding Member, Sandy Immelman and Director of Child Protection Services at the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Yvonne Deonarain.
Hundreds of workers at GoldOne Mine, east of Johannesburg have downed tools demanding that the employer expedite the balloting process for the majority union. A section of workers at the mine wants the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) to be elevated to the majority union. The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is presently the only union recognised at GoldOne. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Legal at GoldOne Mine, Ziyaad Hassam
Gauteng police are investigating a case of murder after two people were shot and killed outside the Randburg Magistrate's Court, in Johannesburg. The victims were approached by a suspect who who opened fire on them. The 2 were certified dead at the scene. The motive for the killing is unknown. Police are appealing to members of the public to come forward if they have information relating to the incident. Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo elaborates
Medical aid tax credits may soon cease to exist in South Africa. The National Department of Health (NDOH) says that medical aid tax credits will end in South Africa - and the money used to reimburse members every year will instead be fed into the National Health Insurance (NHI) Fund. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Health Systems Strengthening and Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF), Dr. Rajesh Patel
One month into the Israeli-Hamas war U.N. Security Council remains divided on the language to be used in a draft resolution that would call for humanitarian relief for the besieged enclave of Gaza. This, as the Secretary General warned that Gaza was becoming a graveyard for children and that the unfolding catastrophe made the need for a humanitarian ceasefire more urgent with every passing hour. The 15-member Council, mandated with the maintenance of international peace and security, met yesterday for more than two hours behind closed-doors but gaps on language remain despite four failed resolutions that has seen the Council have zero say or impact on the war's current trajectory. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Research Fellow at the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg, Kwezi Mngqibisa.
Bela-Bela Magistrate's Court in Limpopo has postponed a case involving two Namibian nationals allegedly involved in the Phala Phala farm burglary to Friday. 39-year-old Imanuwela David and 30-year-old Froliana Joseph allegedly stole 580,000 US dollars at President Cyril Ramaphosa's Limpopo Farm in February 2020. They are facing four charges, including conspiracy to commit housebreaking with intent to steal and theft, and money laundering. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Koketso Motaung.
Police are investigating a robbery incident on the N3 between Vosloorus and Heidelberg, where the Minister of Transport and two protectors were robbed. Personal belongings and two SAPS service pistols were stolen. A manhunt has been launched to bring those responsible to justice. SAPS Brigadier Athlenda Mathe Elaborates has more.
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality says the prefabricated structure it uses as a call centre amounted to one-point three Million rands, inclusive of the set-up inside the structure. This follows reports by the City Press which accuse the municipality of alleged corruption and irregular expenditure following weekend reports that claim a sum of R38 million was used to erect and equip what appears as a shack with equipment to help it attend to service delivery issues in the area. Yesterday, we spoke to City Press journalist, Norman Masungwini. To respond to the allegations, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Municipal Manager at the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Municipality, Itumeleng Jonas.
The Gauteng High Court has ruled that the appointment of the City of Johannesburg's municipal manager, Floyd Brink, was unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid. The Johannesburg high court judgment comes after the DA and parties represented in the city's council challenged the validity of Brink's appointment. The high court's order has, however, been suspended for 10 days to allow the city to appoint an acting municipal manager. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader, Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku.
An investigation by Treasury has found that a municipal manager at the Thulamela Local Municipality in Thohoyandau, Limpopo has awarded tenders to companies improperly. The report by the SIU also reveals that these tenders valued at R30 million were awarded before the bid committee reached a decision of awarding the tenders. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makhungo.
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality in the North West has been accused of corruption after spending 38 million rand for a small prefabricated structure it uses as a call centre. According to the City Press, the municipality is also alleged to be spending about one-point-four Million rand a month for the equipment in the call centre. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City Press reporter on this story, Norman Masungwini.
Concerns have been raised about the increasing number of places of worship that are being targeted by criminals. Congregants are held at gunpoint and robbed of their money, phones and some cases end in assault. Last month, Pastor Dwayne Gordon, a guest preacher, was shot and killed when six men stormed in at the Eagle Christian Center in Newlands, Johannesburg. Officials are now warning churchgoers to be vigilant as criminals see churches as soft targets. While churches are calling for government to act. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Archbishop Thami Ngcana, General Secretary of Council of African Independent Churches
In his opening address at the Nasrec Expo Center in Johannesburg , President Cyril Ramaphosa told delegates that the 20th AGOA Forum is taking place in Africa, a continent with significant potential for industrialization and job creation. The US is working with African countries to diversify international supply chains of critical minerals, focusing on the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The forum aims to ensure the legislation achieves its objectives and reaches its full potential, with reforms to make it easier for small and medium-sized businesses. The forum also aims to promote work and bring the voices of American and African workers together. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Auto Motive Council CEO Michael Mabasa
President Cyril Ramaphosa opened the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum in Johannesburg, South Africa, The forum aims to strengthen economic partnerships between the US and eligible African states, focusing on fostering resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth. The forum will include discussions on enhancing trade and investment ties, addressing challenges in export diversification, and improving AGOA utilization. The AGOA, which expires in 2025, is expected to promote inward investment in Africa and support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The forum will also showcase successful beneficiary stories. Sakina Kamwendo Spoke to chartered accountant and former fnb easy plan CEO Gift Manyanga
Digitalization is driving economic growth and innovation in Africa, with private sector companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon investing in African data centers. By 2025, the data center market is expected to reach over $3 billion. However, further efforts are needed to boost digital trade and digitalization. Challenges include increasing internet access, building digital infrastructure, cultivating digital skills, and promoting digital services. To bridge the gap, investments in traditional access, reducing data service costs, and establishing robust data protection laws are needed. Sakina Kamwendo Spoke to Senior Manager for government affairs & Public policy at Google - Abongile Mashele
Yesterday, on the first day of the Agoa Forum, over 160 businesses were exhibiting at AGOA 2023. Update At Noon spoke to exhibitors present at the AGOA forum currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Center in Johannesburg in terms of how these opportunities present themselves and whether they are actually able to penetrate the US market in any meaningful way, with a special focus on small and medium enterprises. Sakina Kamwendo Spoke to exhibitors Medical devices Manufacturers of Sa Treasure Anton Coetzee and Managing Director of Makhamisa foods Terence Leluma
AGOA extension tops the agenda at the US-Africa trade forum in South Africa, a trade forum to discuss AGOA's potential extension as officials' meet with African leaders to address compliance issues. AGOA, providing duty-free access to the US market for sub-Saharan African countries, The forum kicks off days after US President Joe Biden announced his intention to boot Niger, Uganda, the Central African Republic, and Gabon off the list of beneficiaries as they have failed to comply with the eligibility criteria.
All eyes are on Johannesburg as it hosts the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum from Thursday to Saturday. US officials and their counterparts in Africa will discuss Washington, DC's flagship trade program for the continent. AGOA provides duty-free access to the US market for most agricultural and manufactured products exported by eligible African countries. The trade pact has also been renewed twice and is due to expire in September 2025. Sakina Kamwendo Spoke to US Embassy Deputy Secretary of Commerce, Don Graves
Today is the first day of the USA-Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum, which brings together the governments of the USA and AGOA-eligible countries, the private sector, civil society, and labor to discuss trade and investment issues. AGOA is American legislation that allows Sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to U.S. markets. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist Miyelani Mkhabela
The South African government, in partnership with the United States government, is hosting the 2023 African Growth Opportunity Act (Agoa) forum in Nasrec, Johannesburg. Agoa is a United States Trade Act that greatly enhanced the US market for beneficiaries of sub-Saharan African countries. Currently, there are 35 African countries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu Parliamentary Coordinator Mathew Parks and Economist Miyelani Mkhabela
Judge Nkosinathi Chili of the Pietermaritzburg High Court has refused Advocate Dali Mpofu's demand that State Advocate Billy Downer and journalist Karyn Maughan sit in the dock during today's court proceedings. The former president's private prosecution of state prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer and journalist Karyn Maughan is continuing. Zuma is charging them with leaking a confidential doctor's letter during his arms deal fraud and corruption trial. Today's appearance comes as Zuma has filed for leave to appeal in the Supreme Court of Appeal against a High Court ruling that set aside the private prosecution. In the run-up to their last appearance in August, Downer and Maughan obtained a court order that first ruling be executed pending an appeal. Zuma lost that case and is now approaching the Constitutional Court. SABC reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe has more.
Some economists say the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is facing a difficult balancing act in cutting government spending in the wake of dwindling tax revenue collection. They say country's tough economic situation will make it difficult for the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to deliver a budget that is satisfactory to all. The Minister will deliver the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement this afternoon in Cape Town. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dawie Roodt, Chief Economist of the Efficient Group,
Some economists say the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is facing a difficult balancing act in cutting government spending in the wake of dwindling tax revenue collection. They say country's tough economic situation will make it difficult for the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to deliver a budget that is satisfactory to all. The Minister will deliver the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement this afternoon in Cape Town.
Unisa has approached a Gauteng high court on an urgent basis to challeng the Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande's decision to place the university under administration for 24 months, with former University of Johannesburg vice chancellor Professor Ihron Rensburg appointed as its administrator. Nzimande's final decision comes after he was interdicted from placing Unisa under administration following his announcement on the 4th of October. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ishmael Mnisi, the spokesperson for the Department Higher Education
One person has been killed in a fire that gutted about 200 shacks in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats. An unknown number of people have been left homeless. The fire ignited in strong winds at the Silver Town informal settlement late last night. Flames were fanned by gusty winds, spreading the inferno through the settlement. The cause of the blaze is unknown at this stage. Relief organisation Gift of the Givers says they will be stepping up relief efforts throughout the day while further assessments are conducted. SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli.
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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South Africa's biggest mining company has already cut a fifth of its carbon emissions.
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Hillside Aluminium in KwaZulu-Natal is investigating ways of reducing its carbon intensity.
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A toolkit has been piloted to bring green hydrogen into the realm of community development.
It's now just hours before the 2023 Rugby World Cup final showdown. Defending champions, South Africa, take on New Zealand at the Stade de France tomorrow (Saturday) for the ultimate prize in World Rugby. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to sport reporter Simon Burke, in Paris France
Karpowership has received environmental authorization to connect to the grid. The Turkish company says the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment gave it permission to go ahead with the installation of a 450-megawatt gas-fired plant in the North Eastern port of Richards Bay. Karpowership's environmental authorization applications have been the subject of a number of legal challenges from environmental activists. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of Karpowership South Africa, Mehmet Katmer in Türkiye.
In a ground-breaking court judgment for new parents, especially fathers, the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has ruled that both parents are entitled to maternity leave. The High Court ruled that the provisions of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and the Unemployment Insurance Fund Act regulating parental leave are unconstitutional as they unfairly discriminate against mothers and fathers, surrogates, and adopting parents regarding maternity leave. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to legal analyst, Nthabiseng Dubazana. From Dubazana Attorneys
Cape Town ranks as the country's most violent city in the country, recording over 3-thousand murders in 2022. This is followed by eThekwini (2,815) and Johannesburg (2,121). That's according to the South African Cities Network (SACN). SACN has recently published its latest report on the state of crime and safety in cities in the country, The report outlines the crime and violence trends within South Africa's major metros. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Senior Researcher at South African Cities Network, Siphelele Ngobese.
The government is expected to officially relaunch South African Airways (SAA) in Cape Town today. Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan says the relaunch is a milestone for the airline, which had run into turbulence after it was grounded for 16 months and underwent business rescue and averted liquidation. The event will also be used to announce the restart of the state-owned airline's direct flights to São Paulo, Brazil. To look at the significance of the relaunch South African Airways. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to aviation expert, Phuthego Mojapele.
Civil rights organisation Section 27 is calling for those who were involved in the Life Esidimeni tragedy in 2016 to be charged with culpable homicide. The inquest into the Life Esidimeni tragedy resumed in the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria today. The inquest is looking into the deaths of 144 mental health patients after the Gauteng Department of Health terminated its contract with Life Esidimeni. Section 27 says those involved, two Department of Health officials and the former owner of a non-government organisation (NGO), actively made decisions that led to the deaths. Presiding Judge Mmonoa Teffo is currently hearing oral arguments from all parties involved to determine the cause of the deaths. Here is Section 27 Advocate Adila Hassim speaking on the role of the then MEC for Health in Gauteng Qedani Mahlangu
Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel has been briefing the media on the preparedness of South Africa to host the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum from the 2nd to the 4th of November 2023 in Johannesburg. Patel highlighted the importance for South Africa to host the forum as well as insights into the forthcoming program. AGOA was signed into law on 18 May 2000 to encourage African countries to open their economies and build free trade markets. Sakina Kamwendo dpoke to reporter, Naledi Ngcobo.
The South African Weather Services has issued a warning for a cut-off low weather system due to hit South Africa next Monday. Weather are expected to be very wet, accompanied by cold temperatures in the country. Condition are expected to continue through Tuesday, easing only on Wednesday. A maximum temperature of only 10°C is predicted for Johannesburg, along with an expected cold front. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC meteorologist, Joel Guy Chabata.
Acting Chief Director of Emergency Management Services at the city of Johannesburg, Rapulana Monageng, has painted a dire picture of the state of Usindiso Building following a fire that claimed at least 77 lives. Monageng is giving evidence before, the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, headed by Justice Sisi Khampepe, as it commenced its work today. He says that the ground floor was littered with informal settlements. accommodating over 200 people
Murder of children happens in residences known by the victims or perpetrators. This is according to SAPS Major General Norman Sekhukhune who briefed the Portfolio Committee on Social Development on stats on violence and murder of children in South Africa. He says in some cases these killings takes place in public spaces such as parks and abondoned buildings. To discuss this matter futher on prevention and interventions in dealing with child murders, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief of Communications and Partnerships at UNICEF South Africa, Toby Fricker.
Over 100 of the 500 miners that were held hostage at Gold One mine in Springs have now come out underground. A dispute between AMCU and NUM over union membership for miners led to more than 500 mineworkers being trapped underground at Gold One's Modder East shaft, in Springs, East of Johannesburg. The dispute escalated into a hostage crisis on Sunday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mpumelelo Maphalala and lead researcher at Bench Marks Foundation, David van Wyk.
Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts has taken a decision to subpoena retired Brigadier Jap Burger to appear before it on Eskom-related investigations. This comes after Brigadier Burger refused to appear before the committee, telling Speaker of Parliament Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula that Scopa does not have the authority and mandate to call him. Brigadier Burger has snubbed Scopa twice after it had invited him to appear before it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to chairperson of Scopa, Mkhuleko Hlengwa.
Electoral Commission of South Africa chairperson, Mosuthu Moepya says the first registration weekend for next year's much anticipated national general elections will take place on the weekend of November 18th and 19th 2023. Mamabolo has been speaking at the official launch of the IEC's unveiling of the Electoral Commission's Communication Campaign at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. The campaign is aimed at raising awareness aboout next year's elections. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC chairperson, Mosuthu Moepya; Mdumiseni Ntuli, representing the ANC, IFP president, Velenkosini Hlabisa; FF+ leader, Dr Pieter Groenewald, leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen and Interim National Chairperson of Action SA and Michael Beaumont
Economic Freedom Fighters national chairperson, Veronica Mente has accused the South African government of cowardice in the face of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Last week cabinet called on the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel's alleged human rights violations in Gaza. Israel has carried out numerous air strikes in Gaza after Hamas' surprise attack on Israel earlier this month. EFF members are marching to the Israeli Embassy in Pretoria in solidarity of the people of Palestine. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
The number of people killed in a freak storm in Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, has risen to five. The storm hit the area following a level six weather alert by the South African Weather Service. The storm is understood to have also damaged local infrastructure including power cables, roads, bridges and vehicles. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo.
The counsels of the accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial have resumed the cross-examination of magistrate Vivian Cronje, after she took down a statement from accused number two, Bongani Ntanzi in 2020. Last week, the High Court in Pretoria heard that Ntanzi was allegedly assaulted four times in detention, a claim refuted by Cronje. The court also heard that the absence of visible injuries on a complainant, does not mean that the complainant has not been assaulted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Sun and wind energy is being laid on for seven Anglo-American mines across four provinces.
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Green hydrogen is being used instead of petrol for two cars that are being driven around South Africa emission-free.
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An R1-billion solar project is being built in North West province for the Tharisa chrome and platinum mine.
Martin Creamer will be back at the Coal-Face at the same time next Friday.
The Gauteng Education Department says it is looking at implementing new security measures in order to ensure safety at some of the schools in the province. These measures include installing security cameras, including deploying armed guards in order to tackle rampant violence, gangsterism, bullying and substance abuse by learners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Education department spokesperson in the province, Steve Mabona
The Law Society of South Africa has told the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services that serious interventions are needed at the offices of the master of high court across the country, as they render dismal service to clients. Poor customer service, long queues, and poor ways of filing are cited among the challenges facing the master's office. The law society has proposed that the Department of Justice needs to train and motivate its officials in the master's office to improve productivity and provide good service to its clients. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Lulama Matya and Advocate Kanyane Mathibe, the Chief Director of Strategy and Policy at Master of the High Court,
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed strong relations between South Africa and Netherlands. He says strategic partnership between the two countries has evolved, matured and is increasingly of mutual benefit. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Kingdom of Netherlands are on a State Visit to South Africa. This is the second visit of a Dutch monarch since Queen Beatrix visited South Africa at the invitation of President Nelson Mandela in 1996.
Arguments about the authenticity of an audio recording in a trial-within-a-trial in the Senzo Meyiwa murder case, are currently being heard in the High Court in Pretoria. Yesterday, the state prosecutor George Baloyi requested that magistrate Vivian Cronje's recording form part of the evidence before the court. Cronje took down a confession statement that one of the accused Bongani Ntanzi had made. Five men are on trial for gunning down the soccer star in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg in October 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
The Mbombela Magistrate's court in Mpumalanga says illegal mining was the primary cause of the collapse of Lily Mine near Barberton in 2016. The court has been delivering the outcome of an inquest into the collapse of the mine. The court says, mining illegally hollowed and weakened a crown pillar in the mine's shaft. When the mine caved in, three mine workers were trapped underground after a lamp room container disappeared in a sinkhole. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi.
The Road Accident Fund's new draft bill proposes to exclude foreign nationals from claiming compensation from the fund. The RAF has so paid out over 3,3-billion-rand in claims to over eight-thousand foreign nationals over the past two years. The RAF has come under fire from lawyers, lobby groups and medical aids over the amendments in the newly proposed bill. They have argued that the amendment to the bill infringes on the rights of accident victims across the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of the African Diaspora Global Network, Dr. Vusimuzi Sibanda and RAF CEO, Collins Letsoalo.
African National Congress Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula has concluded a media briefing giving an update on the party's National Executive Congress' outcomes. The party has emphasised its commitment to renewal after former President, Thabo Mbeki last week lamented the ANC for its failure to renew itself despite resolving to do so at its 2017 conference. The diagnostic report delivered by the then Secretary-General, Gwede Mantashe said the ANC faced diminishing public trust as members of the party faced allegations of corruption and the party was confronted by factionalism. During the party's ANC NEC at the weekend, Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula said almost one-hundred members had appeared before the Committee, including party President, Cyril Ramaphosa . Briefing the media on the outcomes of the meeting, Mbalula says the party is committed to improving integrity management within its structures.
A section of the AmaZulu Royal Family's application to have President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to issue a certificate of recognition to King Misizulu Kwazwelithini overturned will resume today in the High Court in Pretoria. There will be final arguments in the matter. Prince Simakade Ka Zwelithini Zulu and Prince Mbonisi ka Bhekuzulu filed the application on behalf of certain members of the royal family. SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni has more...
The state prosecutor in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, George Baloyi, says the recording of an alleged confession by one of the accused should form part of the evidence before court. The recording was allegedly made by magistrate Vivian Cronje , who is currently testifying in the high court in Pretoria. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more.
Southern Africa Litigation Centre has expressed concerned by the ongoing reports of violations of international humanitarian law and grave human rights violations in Gaza. The Centre's International Justice Cluster lead, Dr Atilla Kisla says all 33 African Member States to the International Criminal Court should call for justice for the people of Palestine and that proceedings to hold perpetrators of international crimes accountable must start now. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Centre's International Justice Cluster lead, Dr Atilla Kisla.
The master's offices of South African high courts has been described as being in a state of dysfunctionality by various lawyers who have dealt with the office, as the legal fraternity decries that the office is causing difficulties for their clients who want to tie up deceased estates, set up and liquidate trusts, and appoint overseers. Lawyers complain about unpredictable delays and a lack of control. Among the other issues cited is that the Master's Office struggles with digitization and in-person visits. The office manages the Guardian's Fund, which manages money for legally incapable individuals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Louis van Vuren, CEO of the Fidiciary Institute of Southern Africa.
The State Information Technology Agency says what the workers affiliated with the Public Servants Association are demanding is unaffordable. This comes as workers have embarked on a strike after wage talks were deadlocked. The union is demanding a 7.5% wage increase, while the employer has moved from 4.5% to 5%. The strike which may negatively affect or could see a complete closure of operations and services provided by government departments such as home affairs, employment and labor, and the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA). Sakina Kamwendo spoke to State Information Technology Agency, Spokesperson Tlali Tlali
Members affiliated to the Public Servants Association (PSA), which represents 80% of about 3-thousand staff of the State Information Technology Agency (Sita), have embarked on a strike after wage talks were deadlocked. The union is demanding a 7.5% wage increase, while the employer has moved from 4.5% to 5%. The strike which may negatively affect or could see a complete closure of operations and services provided by government departments such as home affairs, employment and labor, and the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA). Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Claude Naicker.
Home Affairs department says its studying the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria's judgment. This comes after the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria dismissed Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi's application for leave to appeal its ZEP ruling. The court ruled in June that Motsoaledi's failure to consult with ZEP holders, interested NGOs and the public was "unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid". For reaction, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the representative of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Holders Association, Advocate Simba Chitando.
The hydrogen economy has the potential to add 3.6% to our GDP by 2050 and create approximately 370 thousand jobs. That's according President Cyril Ramaphosa. The President was delivering the keynote address at the second iteration of the South Africa Green Hydrogen Summit in Century City in Cape Town, Western Cape a short while ago. He says advances have been made towards building the green hydrogen industry in the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Masupa Moshoeshoe, a Green Hydrogen Specialist from the Investment and Infrastructure Office in the Presidency.
There are growing concerns about the ongoing extortion and criminality targeting construction projects in the City of Cape Town. Several major projects have been halted due to safety concerns on sites. Authorities in the city say extortion in the construction industry continues to hamper its efforts to build houses and improve roads. The city has also set up a hotline and rewards system to encourage residents to tackle extortion. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Cape Town's mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith.
Johannesburg Water has outlined its plans to ensure its water system build up capacity during this water crisis. The entity has been briefing the media on the current water supply challenges in parts of Johannesburg. Due to the deteriorating situation , last month, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu intervened and announced a plan that would spread the impact of water cuts between communities. Water experts say drought , alleged corruption and overall decay in the quality and state of water infrastructure are some of the contributors to the water crisis. Johannesburg Water's networks manager Logan Munsamy elaborates on the new measures.
Amnesty International has called upon both Israel and Palestinian armed groups to strictly abide by international humanitarian laws and refrain from imposing collective punishment on civilians. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amnesty International spokesperson in South Africa, Genevieve Quintal.
The Competition Commission has praised local retailers for implementing product rationing for eggs and chicken. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to economist from the Competition Commission, Kagiso Zwane.
The South African Poultry Association says there are signs that the bird flue outbreak is waning as compared to how the situation was four weeks ago. The outbreak of the highly pathogenic bird flu has led to the culling of over seven-point-five Million chickens across four of the country's provinces. This has led to soaring egg prices with some big retail stores reporting a shortage of supply. The Poultry Association has alluded to the importation of liquid and powdered eggs for industrial use in order to cover the shortfall. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Association's CEO, Izak Breitenbach.
City of Tshwane mayor, Cilliers Brink says a senior SAMWU regional executive member has been dismissed for allegedly being involved in the torching of waste removal trucks belonging to a contractor. Brink says video footage shows a group that firebombed the truck being dropped off and collected by a vehicle belonging to the SAMWU leader on August 28. Eight vehicles have been set alight since the beginning of the unprotected wage strike in July. Brink, however, says it is disappointing that the dismissed employee has not yet been arrested despite evidence being handed over to the police. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Tshwane mayor, Cilliers Brink
Some beneficiaries of social grants in the Eastern Cape are appealing to government to speedily sort out the technical glitches that are causing delays in the payment of their money. Grant beneficiaries in Komani and the surrounding areas claim are yet to receive their grants. The glitches are due to system upgrade at Postbank. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi
Despite the shortage challenges faced by many commercial retailers, small scale farmers seem to be seizing the opportunities arising from this out break .Sakina Kamwendo spoke to small scale farmer and founding owner of Eggsellent in Mpumalanga, Lebogang Mashigo.
A community at Vaalbank in Mpumalanga wants answers after it accused three workers including a teacher and member of the School Governing Body of allegedly stealing food meant for the School Nutrition Programme at a school in the area. The three workers allegedly loaded the food in two bakkies last month when schools were closing, saying it would be stolen. Now angry parents want to know what happened to the food supplies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to community leader, Tebogo Makola
The multi-billion rand Giyani water reticulation project in Limpopo has come to a grinding halt. This is due to squabbles over tenders. Local contractors are demanding to be awarded tenders, and the local Chamber of Commerce is accusing the Water and Sanitation Department of appointing a main contractor without its knowledge. The Chamber of Commerce has also stopped a R41 million water project in Tzaneen. The closure of these projects has left more than 52 villages affected. Sakina Kamewndo spoke to SABC Repoter, Pimani Baloyi.
The International Monetary Fund says global growth remains weak and uneven. That's due to a variety of economic difficulties, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia and Ukraine conflict and inflation. According to the IMF's predictions, the global GDP growth for the current year is expected to remain weak at 3 per cent. Despite the gloomy global forecast, the IMF has raised its 2023 growth forecast for South Africa to 0.9 per cent - up from its last forecast in July of 0.3 growth. This, they say is due to lower-than-anticipated load shedding. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to economics editor, Tshepo Mongoai and Chief Economist at Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt...
Members of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA have resolved to write to Brigadier Johannes Burger one last time, inviting him to appear before the committee. The committee has some questions for him following former Eskom CEO, Andre's De Ruyter's testimony before the committee back in April. SCOPA has just received legal opinion on their attempts to have Burger appear it, as Brigadier Burger has raised security concerns about his appearance, indicating instead that he would rather appear before a closed Joint Committee on Intelligence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Parliament, Zalene Merrington.
Egypt is in close contact with Israel and Hamas to try and prevent further escalation in fighting between them. This, as the situation continues to worsen in the Middle East. Several international air carriers have suspended flight services to and from Tel Aviv after a surprise attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Meanwhile, 260 bodies have been found, where a concert was held in Israel. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Yossie Mekelberg - an associate fellow with the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House
If you're married out of community of property without accrual, you can now claim from your spouse's estate if you divorce, if you can show you've made a significant non-financial contribution to that estate. The Constitutional Court has ruled that section 7 (3) of the Divorce Act is invalid and unconstitutional because it excludes marriages concluded on or after November 1st 1984. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Joseph Sithole from JVS Attorney Inc.
Defense lawyer, Zandile Mshololo says Accused number 5 in the Senzo Meyiwa trial was not at the Vosloorus hostel the day the soccer star was murdered. Five men are on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for Meyiwa's murder in 2014. The goal keeper was fatally wounded at the home of the mother of his girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg. Mshololo referred to one of the pictures taken outside a hostel on the day of the murder, saying Accused number 5 was in Johannesburg, and not in Vosloorus as stated by witness Sizwe Zungu. SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane has more
Faith-based organizations will today hold prayers at the church where Pastor Dwayne Gordon was shot and killed during a service in Newlands, Johannesburg on Friday night. A group of unknown gunmen stormed the church, opened fire and killed the preacher and wounded three other people. They also robbed the congregants of their personal belongings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC news reporter, Horisani Sithole.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency in Palestine says more than 74-thousand civilians have been displaced, with numbers likely to increase as heavy shelling and air strikes continue. UNRWA says one of its schools which shelters displaced families in the Gaza strip was directly hit but no casualties were recorded. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to UNRWA Spokesperson in Amman, Tamara Alrifai.
The minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says South Africa is turning the corner and that Eskom is beginning to register progress in the resolution of load shedding. He was briefing the media to update on the implementation of the National Energy Action Plan. Ramokgopa further elaborates
Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe appealed to mining companies to reconsider their retrenchment plans. Some mining companies announced their intensions to cut thousands of jobs in the coming months.
Sibanye Stillwater is planning to lay off 2382 workers, while Anglo American contemplates shedding around 180 jobs. Mantashe delivered the closing address on the last day of the Joburg Indaba, looking into the mining sector. SABC repoter, Katlego Legodi has more.
A new report released by the Department of social development and the Children's Institute at the University of Cape Town has reveled that child food poverty can be eliminated by increasing the child social grant and this would benefit not only the children but households that are already struggling to make ends meet. According to the report this decision will in turn help to reduce the rates of child hunger, malnutrition and stunting. Katharine Hall, senior researcher at the Children's Institute at the University of Cape Town explains the modelling options and budget impact
Chairperson of Independent Municipal and Allied Trade Union's Tshwane region, Melita Baloyi. Meanwhile, Tshwane Executive Mayor, Cilliers Brink says he stands ready to welcome COSATU marchers and is committed at taking tough decisions to save the City of Tshwane from total collapse. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Finance MMC in Tshwane, Peter Sutton.
As today marks world teachers' day to honor the role, service, and importance of teachers, the South African Council of Educators reports a rise in complaints against teachers for assaulting pupils and sexual misconduct. SACE says these trends are worrying. This emerged in the entity's annual report tabled in Parliament. SACE reported that it received a total of 734 cases and investigated 254 misconduct complaints against educators. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACE manager of Ethics, Sandile Ntshalintshali
Transnet Freight Rail CEO Siza Mzimela has resigned. Mzimela revealed the news of her departure in a letter to staff earlier today. This comes as transnet freight rail has performed poorly during Mzimela's tenure. The Transnet Freight Rail Chief Executive Officer will vacate her office at the end of this month. Mzimela assumed office in 2020. This is just less than a week after Portia Derby resigned as Transnet CEO. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to independent analyst, Khaya Sithole.
Civic Organisations within the City of Tshwane have started campaigns to boycott paying their municipal rates and levies. This, they say is due to the persistent poor delivery of services, particularly in townships. The situation has been exacerbated by the ongoing impasse between municipal workers who remain on strike action since July while the City is adamant that it does not have the necessary funds for salary increases. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Leader of the Lotus Atteridgeville Saulsville Civic Organisation, Tshepo Mahlangu.
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has been postponed to Monday to allow the defence counsel time to study documents containing evidence from a cellphone analyst. The documents relate to data from the cellphones of Bongani Ntanzi and another, who are among the five the accused in the murder trial of the football star. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Trade, Industry, and Competition minister Ebrahim Patel has directed the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) to consider the creation of a temporary rebate provision on chicken meat. The directive follows an engagement between the Minister Patel and the Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, minister Thoko Didiza. South Africa is currently dealing with avian flu outbreak, which led to the culling of more than 2-million chickens. The impact of avian flu outbreak has led to the depletion of locally available poultry, which could have a severe food security implications and prices of poultry.Sakina Kamwedno spoke to ITAC Chief Commissioner, Ayabonga Cawe.
The SOS Coalition - a broadcasting network that campaigns for democratic media and broadcasting - has sounded the alarm on the proposed SABC draft Bill recently signed by Cabinet. The Bill is set to be tabled in front of parliament's relevant portfolio committee before the public can give input on it. Amongst the Bill's proposals is for the SABC to establish a subsidiary commercial company that will have its own board. The draft bill also proposes that the Communications Minister - in consultation with the corporation - may regulate television licenses in order to generate money for the Public Broadcaster. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SOS's national coordinator, Uyanda Siyotula
Pressure is mounting on Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan, to be sacked and his department scrapped. This comes amid growing business and investor unhappiness about continuing instability at the country's embattled state owned enterprises. Political analyst, Sandile Swana says although Gordhan is a liability to the country's economy, his political future is safe as he remains a political ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa. Meanwhile, economist at Wits University, Professor, Jannie Rossouw, says neither Gordhan not his department add any value stabilising the country's SOEs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Rossouw
Teacher regulatory body, SACE says it's seeing a rise in complaints against teachers for assaulting pupils and sexual misconduct. SACE says these trends are worrying. This emerged in the entity's annual report tabled in Parliament. The South African Council of Educators (Sace), reported that it received a total of 734 cases and investigated 254 misconduct complaints against educators. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACE manager of Ethics, Sandile Ntshalintshali
State witness Constable Sizwe Zungu has been asked why he didn't come forward the moment he suspected he knew who was responsible for the murder of Senzo Meyiwa. Meyiwa was shot dead in 2014 while at Kelly Khumalo's parental home in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg. Five men are on trial at the High Court in Pretoria for the murder of the Bafana Bafana soccer star. Zungu is being cross examined by defense for accused number four advocate Zithulele Nxumalo. For more on this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
The main labor union at South Africa's state power utility Eskom, the National Union of Mine Workers, has called for the suspension of a R163 billion ($8.5 billion) climate finance pact. Under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), South Africa agreed to begin moving away from generating electricity from coal to producing more renewable energy. The union, says it wants further consultations on the transition plan because of the threat it poses to jobs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM Energy Sector Coordinator Khangela Baloyi .
Two boys have died at a clinic in Naledi, Soweto after they allegedly ate biscuits bought from a foreign-owned shop on Sunday. Soweto police have opened an inquest docket. It is also understood that two more children are in a critical condition in hospital. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mbalenhle Mthemthwa.
State witness Constable Sizwe Zungu has resumed his testimony at the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial taking place in the High Court in Pretoria. Last month, the trial adjourned to allow the defence time to study more than 700 photos requested from the state, before they continue their cross examination of Zungu. Five men are standing trial for Meyiwa's murder, who was shot dead in Voslorus, east of Johannesburg in 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
The Economic Freedom Fighters protest is underway in the Western Cape. The protesters are chanting slogans and singing struggle songs amid a heavy police presence. The march comes in the wake of a recent taxi industry strike against the impoundment of vehicles by City of Cape Town law enforcement agencies. They are expected to deliver the memorandum of grievances to city officials later today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli.
The department of Basic Education says more than three-thousand schools across the country have reported unusual behaviour amongst pupils. This includes learners screaming uncontrollably and other strange behaviour. The department has since taken it upon itself to launch a survey to probe such strange behaviours. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to departmental spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga.
The October leg of the Judicial Service Commission interviews commences today. There are twenty judicial vacancies which include four vacancies at the Supreme Court of Appeals. According to the Judiciary Newsletter, out of the 21 judicial appointments made by the President on the recommendations of the Judicial Service Commission, 11 were women, including Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News reporter, Zoleka Qodashe.
Local government's inability to enforce by-laws has been blamed for the decay of some South African cities. The fire in Marshalltown Joburg, which killed over 70 people, demonstrated the city's failure to adhere to its own laws. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nthatisi Modingoane, Deputy Director of Communications at the City of Johannesburg.
Police are investigating a case of murder after a man was gunned down on the R40 road in Hazyview, Mpumalanga. The deceased who was travelling with his family stepped out of his vehicle before he was shot and killed. The R40 road linking Hazyview and Bushbuckridge will be closed as police comb the area for clues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Nsikelelo Nkuna.
Commission for Gender Equality in Mpumalanga has added its voice to the problem of the practice of Fulelani Nganeno. Update at Noon has been putting the spotlight on the crisis in Nkomazi local Municipality on the high rate of young girls being impregnated by older men and the practice of Fulelani Nganeno also known as Ukuthwala. This issue was highlighted by a concerned resident , Innocent Madonsela, who says he's been receiving a number of complaints from parents. Last week , he delivered a petition signed by over 10 000 people to the Human Rights Commission. The Commission for Gender Equality , The Human Rights Commission and the Council of Traditional Leaders have now joined hands in an effort to end the practice. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lucky Mabuza from the Commission for Gender Equality.
Water experts have warned government officials to take responsibility for the current water challenges faced by various communities in Gauteng. This follows calls by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu for Rand Water to implement water shifting as a temporary measure to alleviate the water shortages in Sandton, Midrand and hardest hit area being most parts parts in the South of Johannesburg. Water expert, Dr Anthony Turton however says sixty percent of the water that is pumped into Joburg's water systems is lost through poor and failing infrastructure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Water Expert, Dr Anthony Turton.
South Africa is now experiencing worse criminal activity than countries like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Lebanon. That's according to Global Organized Crime Index 2023. This index provides important context for the growing growth in organized crime over the past decade. The index showed that organized crime is rising globally, with 83% of the world's population living in conditions of high criminality. South Africa is seen to have performed particularly poorly, with both criminality and resilience scores worsening over the past year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lizette Lancaster, Crime and Justice Information and Analysis Hub at the Institute for Security Studies
The case against the 9 accused linked to the Fort Hare university murders has been postponed to the 30th of October in the Alice magistrates court this morning. The nine are accused of being involved in the murder of Fort Hare's Fleet Manager, Petrus Roets, and the Vice Chancellor's bodyguard, Mboneli Vesele. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sidima Mfeku.
Municipal workers union, the Independent Municipal & Allied Trade Union, says it's disappointed with the Tshwane Metropolitan city continuing to dismiss workers. The municipality has allegedly dismissed over 100 of its employees for participating in what it calls an illegal and unprotected strike. The city is also accused of failing to pay it's workers, instead challenging them to explain why they are entitled to their salaries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Imatu Tshwane Regional Chairperson, Melita Baloyi.
Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi has paid homage to struggle stalwart and the 'Mother of the Nation' Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. He was speaking at the official unveiling and renaming of William Nicole Drive to Winnie Mandela Drive. The William Nicol Drive, stretches from Sandton to Diepsloot, and remains one of Johannesburg's busiest roads, often being heard on radio traffic bulletins during peak morning and afternoon traffic. The ceremony to honour Madikizela-Mandela coincides with the 87th birthday of the late icon of the nation. Premier Lesufi had this to say the late struggle icon.
Aides and supporters of Niger's deposed president, Mohamed Bazoum, have welcomed the decision by France to withdraw its diplomatic staff and military from the country. The say that this move will deny the military junta a scapegoat to disguise its failings. President Emmanuel Macron told French viewers during a televised address on Sunday that military cooperation with Niger was "over" and that French troops would withdraw by the end of the year. The announcement came months after Niger's presidential guard detained ousted president Mohamed Bazoum. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to director of the Geneva Centre for Africa Security and Strategic Studies, David Otto.
The Western Cape has been plunged into chaos as severe weather conditions hit the province . Thousands of people have been displaced following the heavy rain and damaging winds. The N2 highway at Botrivier has been cut off, making travelling to and from Cape Town impossible. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to City of Cape Town Disaster Management spokesperson, Charlotte Powell.
Following events of strong winds and persistent rain causing havoc in the Western Cape, SA science writer Leonie Joubert and Wits climatologist Professor Coleen Vogel have warned that SA cities need to prepare for the worst. They say that cities and the countryside are vulnerable to rain bombs and devastating flooding. Leonie was speaking during journalism webinar with a special focus on El Nino and La Niña. The webinar highlighted that El Niño can result in flooding, as seen in Durban in April 2019. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Cape Town-based science writer, Leonie Joubert.
The South African Weather Services says the Western Cape and Eastern Cape are expected to bear the brunt of the predicted extreme weather conditions. he Disaster Management Centre is on high alert for the incoming cut-off low weather system making landfall on Sunday into Monday. Damaging waves, strong winds and severe thunderstorms are also expected in certain parts of the Western Cape. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to SABC meteorologist, Joel "Guy" Chabata
Parliament is to clamp down on members of parliament who don't show up for public hearings and oversight visits that have already been paid for. According to the National Assembly House Chairperson Cedric Frolick, this cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of rands. Frolick, says fruitless and wasteful expenditure can never be tolerated. Public hearings are a crucial step in the parliamentary legislative process and an expensive process paid for by taxpayers. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to National Assembly chair responsible for committees and oversight, Cedric Frolick.
The ANC has defeated the Democratic Alliance private member's bill that sought to stop cadre deployment in the public sector. The bill, which was proposed by DA MP Leon Schreiber and reviewed by the Public Service and Administration portfolio committee, was supported by all opposition parties present, with the exception of one the PAC. The end cadre deployment bill sought to outlaw the employment of political party office-bearers in the civil service. Cadre deployment has been an ongoing point of tension between the parties, with the DA earlier this year winning a court case compelling the ANC to hand over its records, which the ANC is fighting. In today's discussion what we're asking is whether the current ANC cadre deployment policy working in favour of the country or not. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to DA's Shadow Minister of Public Service and Administration Leon Schrieber 078 395 6374 and ANC member Chrispin Phiri
Renowned economist Dawie Roodt warned that South Africans should expect another big petrol price increase next month. His warning comes amidst a weaker currency and a significant increase in the Brent crude oil price. The rand has been trading within a narrow range of R18.80 to R19.10 per US dollar for most of the week.
The poultry industry continues to bear the brunt of the high-pathogenic avian influenza or avian flu which has led to the loss of almost Four Million chickens since June this year. The current outbreak of the deadly HPAI equates to about a third of egg-laying chickens and a quarter of broiler-breeding chickens dying from the virus or being culled. The bout was first detected in early June in Mpumalanga but has since spread to Gauteng, parts of Limpopo and Rustenburg in the North West. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the South African Poultry Association General Manager, Dr Abongile Balarane...
There's a growing concern from the legal fraternity about the the Road Accident Fund Amendment Bill. The Department of Transport gazetted the draft RAF Amendment Bill, 2023, last month. It proposed changes to how the RAF will operate in South Africa in future. Legal experts claim this move will see the fund severely cut down on the support offered to road accident victims. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Deputy Minister of Transport, Lisa Mangcu.
Gauteng police have arrested seven suspects in relation to the kidnap of an 18 year old student from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. The male student was reported missing by his roommate yesterday after being lured through a dating site called Grindr. His alleged kidnappers demanded a 30-thousand ransom from his family in order to secure his safe release. A quick sting operation from crime intelligence partnering with other entities of the state which include a cellular data investigator, led to an arrest of one of the suspects while he was attempting withdraw the ransom money at an ATM on the M2 highway. Brigadier Brenda Muridili explains further and Bongile Zwane speaks to Criminologist at Tshwane University of Technology, Professor Kholofelo Rakubu.
The public has until the 13th of next month to give commentary on the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill together with the National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill. Both bills are expected to be game changers if passed, in the country's transition from a centralised electricity market to a more open and competitive model. If the ERA bill for instance is not passed by the end of term for this parliament, it will fall away and need to be revived by the new administration post the 2024 national elections. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Alecia Pienaar, Counsel for Environmental and Regulatory Law Practice at Cliffee Dekker Hofmeyr Law Firm.
The Western Cape government has condemned the destruction of public infrastructure at Swellendam in the Overberg region. Protesters blockaded the N2 and allegedly burnt down another municipal building as well as a fire service vehicle. Swellendam township and informal settlement residents are fuming over the indigent subsidy policy. This means residents will have to apply for indigent benefits for poor households. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Swellendam Mayor , Francois Du Rand.
The personal injury plaintiff lawyer association, together with the other six legal associations, have strongly opposed the proposed changes to the Road Accident Fund, which will severely cut down on the support offered to road accident victims and negate compensation in some cases entirely. Advocate Justin Erasmus, Chairperson of the Personal Injury Plaintiff Lawyers Association, has described this move by the Department of Transport as taking away the rights of people. He says road accident victims are now being turned into Sassa pensioners, lamenting this as a recipe for disaster. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Advocate Justin Erasmus, Chairperson of the Personal Injury Plaintiff Lawyers Association
The Consumer Price Index has increased slightly from four-point-seven per cent in July to four-point-eight per cent in August 2023. Statistics South Africa released the data earlier today, with an increase that is in line with analysts' expectations. Contributions to the increase came from food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing and utilities, as well as miscellaneous goods and services. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Senior Economist at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Xhanti Payi.
Corruption Watch says there is an increase in the number of reported deviations in 2023. The data shows a massive increase of 247% from 2021 to 2023. The anti-corruption organisation says this represent a cause for serious concern when set against the backdrop of generally decreasing deviation numbers since 2017. It says this analysis is purely based on reported data and the increase in the deviation numbers may reflect increased reporting of deviations rather than an actual increase in deviations. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Legal Researcher at Corruption Watch, Motlatsi Komote.
Residents of Eldorado Park, Westbury and Riverlea are complaining that police are not doing enough to keep gangsters off the streets and to ensure their safety. This follows a spate of alleged gang-related shooting incidents over the weekend that claimed the lives of six people in Westbury and Eldorado Park. Today, the city of Johannesburg speaker Colleen Makhubele visited the areas. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole.
The Children's Institute at the University of Cape Town is in court today as a friend of a court, in a case against the Department of Home Affair's practice of blocking Identity Documents. The institute wants the practice to be declared unconstitutional as it accuses the department of illegally blocking over a million IDs, leaving the children of those ID holders desperate. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Paula Proudlock, senior researcher at the Children's Institute at the University of Cape Town and Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi
On Monday, Update@Noon continued to put the spotlight on the crisis in Nkomazi local Municipality on the high rate of young girls being impregnated by older men and the practice of Fulelani Nganeno also known as ukuthwala. Concerned resident , Innocent Madonsela says he has been recieving a number of complaints from concerned parents. Today he delivered a petition signed by over 10 000 people to the Human Right Commission. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Eric Mokonyama from the South African Human Rights Commission.
SATAWU Transport Union has joined the chorus as calls mount for the axing of Transnet's CEO. This comes as the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the other five business chambers have written letters to the minister of public enterprise, Pravin Gordon, calling for the axing of Transnet's top executives, including CEO Portia Derby, citing the continued deterioration of port and rail services, which has adverse effects on revenue for not only Transnet but also its clients. SATAWU deputy general secretary Anele Kiet says they had expected a lot from the CEO based on the promises she had made when she took over. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SATAWU deputy general secretary, Anele Kiet.
Services within the City of Tshwane continue to be disrupted as the strike action by South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) continues. On Tuesday, the city reported an alleged vandalism of the Heatherley Substation which saw power outages in parts of Pretoria East. Meanwhile, refuse collection continues to pile up in many parts the capital with SAMWU members continuing with their strike action which commences in July. This comes as the city has stuck to its guns insisting that it does not have the 600-Million rand needed for the salary increases. Workers want to force the city to honour the last year of the three-year wage agreement for 2023/2024. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SAMWU's provincial secretary in Gauteng, Mpho Tladinyane.
Johannesburg's power utility, City Power is currently conducting cut-off operations in Naturena, south of Johannesburg. The utility has switched off electricity to defaulting customers & those connected illegally. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to City Power spokesperson, Isaac Mangena.
The City of Ekurhuleni says it is working with Rand Water to try and address the water supply challenges facing residents of Tsakane, Daveyton and Kwa-Thema. Residents from these townships have taken to the streets in protest over lack of water supply in the areas. Ekurhuleni Metro police have been deployed to the areas to quell the situation. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Prabashni Naidoo.
Police have noted multiple gun related deaths in South Africa over weekend. In one incident, police in the Eastern Cape are investigating a case of murder after five people were shot dead in a mass shooting at a house in Gelvandale in the Nelson Mandela Bay late Sunday night. In Gauteng, five people were left in Westbury and Eldorado Park in an alleged gang related shooting incidents. Whilst in Mpumalanga police are investigating two cases of murder and multiple counts of attempted murder following a shooting incident at a tavern in KaNyamazane near Mbombela over the weekend. Bongiwe Zwaned spoke to Gun Free South Africa researcher, Claire Taylor.
The Department of Home Affairs is challenging a court finding that the termination of government's Zimbabwean exemption permit (ZEP) programme is unlawful in Pretoria High Court. The Pretoria High court in June criticised the department and its minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, for not following proper procedure in terminating the regime, which allows more than 178,000 Zimbabweans to stay and work in South Africa. It extended the regime by 12 months to allow the minister to follow a fair process to end it. Motsoaledi believes the judgments delivered earlier this year sets a dangerous precedent. Bongile Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
The Nkomazi Local Municipality in Mpumalanga says it has noted with concern the high rate of young girls being impregnated by older men. This follows, reports of cases of girls as young as 10-years-old falling pregnant by older men in Mjejane village on the border with Mozambique. A concerned resident, Innocent Madonsela has been receiving a number of complaints and submitted a signed petition by more than 3000 residents to the Human Rights Commission. Madonsela says once the girl is pregnant, the man will pay a fine, called ' Fulelani nganeno', to the girl's family. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Nkomazi Local Municipality spokesperson, Cyril Ripinga.
The tradition of Ukuthwala is reportedly on the rise in Nkomazi, more especially in Mjejane village in Mpumalanga. Innocent Madonsela , runs a campaign against the practice on Change.org and is trying to put an end to the practice. Young girls as young as 10-years-old are reportedly impregnated by older men, who then pay what is known as "funelani nganeno' as a way of apologising to the family of the girl. Udo Carelse spoke to the Julie Malgas Foundation and Nguvu Collective change leader, Innocent Madonsela from.
Platinum and gold mining company, Sibanye- Stillwater has begun retrenchment talks with more than 2,380 workers and more than 500 contractors as it looks to reduce continued losses at its Kloof 4 gold shaft. Kloof is a large, shallow to ultradeep-level gold mining and processing operation in the Far West Rand Goldfields of the Witwatersrand Basin. The firm said on Thursday in a statement that it has recorded losses even with the recent high gold prices. Udo Carelse spoke to Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs at Sibanye Still Water, James Wellsted.
National Taxi Association, SANTACO says it is in full support of the march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in which civic movement 'PutSouthAfricaFirst' together with the Xolani Khumalo Foundation aim to draw government's attention to the scourge of the illegal trade and use of drugs in the country. Other organisations that form part of the march include, the Young Communist League and the Bomme ba Selelo, a women-based formation from Mapobane, north of Tshwane. Udo Carelse spoke to SANTACO spokesperson in Tshwane, Mcdonald Makata.
Preparations have been made for the transportation of the remains of late Amazulu traditional prime minister and former IFP president, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi to travel from a mortuary in Ulundi to his home in Emahlabathini for his funeral on Saturday. The procedure to be followed for his burial is said to be similar to the that followed after the death of AmaZulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini in 2021. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Vusi Makhosini.
The Special Investigating Unit has found that National Treasury flouted its own internal procurement processes when it awarded a contract for the implementation of the Integrated Financial Management System in 2016. It says the contract with service provider Oracle resulted in fruitless and wasteful expenditure amounting to 68-million rand. It also found that there was a conflict of interest for some of the former directors general at the Treasury. This emerged when the SIU updated Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) on their investigation into the project. Abongwe Kobokana reports...
The trial of five men accused of murdering soccer star, Senzo Meyiwa has been postponed to the 2nd of October by the High court in Pretoria. The postponement is to allow the defence time to peruse over 700 photos they requested from the state. The defence's cross examination of state witness, Constable Sizwe Zungu is expected to continue when the trial resumes. Zungu has testified that he saw all five accused at a hostel in Vosloorus the day Meyiwa was killed. SABC News reporter, Pearl Magubane has more.
Efforts by Johannesburg's City Power to cut off electricity to hijacked buildings in the inner City have been met with resistance and threats of violence by local residents. City Power officials, accompanied by law enforcement officers had to abandon their operation in Jeppestown yesterday due to heightened tensions. The power utility had targeted four buildings which it says collectively owe the City close to 20 Millions rands in unpaid electricity consumption. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City Power's Head of Rick and Security, Sergeant Thela.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says measures to address budget shortfalls resulting from government's current fiscal constraints must not impact negatively on service delivery. Ntshavheni also reflected on the ongoing high levels of load shedding. This after Eskom warned South Africans to use electricity sparing due increasing demand for electricity during the peak hours prompted by a cold front that hit the country this week. Ntshavheni briefed members of the media on the outcomes of a cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
Hawks in the Eastern Cape province are on the heels of criminals behind incidents of kidnappings for ransom and extortion. That according to Eastern Cape provincial spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), warrant officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana. Kidnappings for ransom and extortion, have drastically grown in the Eastern Cape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Eastern Cape provincial spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un says Moscow had his full backing in its "sacred fight" with the West. The North Korean leader said this during his meeting with Russian President, Vladimir Putin in Russia's Far East. The summit between the leaders of the two countries, which have become increasingly isolated internationally, is being watched closely by Washington and allies, who suspect they could agree to trade arms and defence technology. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Executive Director at HCCP Global Think Tank, Simon Alain Handy....
Many beneficiaries have still not been able to receive their grant money. This follows a technical glitch last Tuesday that affected SASSA and Postbank card holders. The system was brought back up but by Monday this week, some transactions were still not resolved. Black Sash says it has been inundated with calls for assistance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vincent Skhosana of Black Sash
Despite losing nine family members in one day and being forced out of their house by alleged IFP supporters in 1991, the Ngulube family in Dobsonville, Soweto urged South Africans to bury the past and reconcile. The Ngulube family and many others around the Siphiwe Village hostel had to flee their homes when war broke out between them and hostel residents, who were aligned with the Inkatha Freedom Party. Some houses, still with visible bullet holes were ransacked and all their belongings stolen. As our Political Reporter, Ntebo Mokobo reports, the Ngulube family welcomed the Special Official Funeral bestowed to to the founding President of the IFP, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
GovTech 2023, a two-day summit kicked off on Tuesday. The annual event is a premier platform for public and private sector discussion and collaboration to engage and identify new and creative ways to mainstream ICT solutions for development. GovTech is designed to have the country's thought leaders come together under one umbrella event. The conference is driven by the theme: Platform Economy for Digital Transformation and Inclusive Growth. It's being held at the Durban International Convention Center. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC News Reporter Mpumelelo Maphalala.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) says former Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter, did not have authority to investigate the corruption at the power utility. Head of SIU, Advocate Andy Mothibi says the unit has questioned why Eskom appointed a private investigative company and not law enforcement. The Special Investigating Unit and Hawks have been briefing the Standing Committee on Public Accounts regarding the intelligence report commissioned by former GCEO of Eskom. Advocate Mothibi elaborates.
A woman has allegedly killed her three kids and the fourth one survived at Jabavu village in Port St Johns in the Eastern Cape. It is alleged that she poisoned all of them using a deadly chemical known as a tank pill. She fled the scene and and ran into the forest. The community is shocked about the incident. This follows another case of a mother from Butterworth in the Eastern Cape who killed her three daughters last month before committing suicide and it was believed the incident was driven by poverty. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nomzwanele Bacela
Clinical Director at The Teddy Bear Clinic, Dr Shaheda Omar says there has been an increase in cases of mothers killing their children in recent years. This comes as a community in the Eastern Cape mourns after a woman allegedly killed her three kids before taking her own life in Jabavu village in Port St Johns. It is alleged that she poisoned all of them using a deadly chemical known as a tank pill. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Teddy Bear Clinic Director, Dr Shaheda Omar
Chairperson of Democratic Alliance Federal Council, Helen Zille says load shedding has caused economic collapse and massive unemployment in South Africa. Zille's remarks come in light of this the DA taking the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) to court following the regulator's authorisation of a 31,4% electricity tariff increase for Eskom. The matter is being heard at the North Gauteng High Court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo.
About 50 people have been killed when air strikes hit a market in the south of Khartoum in Sudan. The medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) says staff have been trying to save the lives of people who suffered horrific injuries. Residents accuse the army of using drones to target the markets. Sudan plunged into a civil war in April after army chief Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo fell out. About five million people have been forced to flee their homes, and thousands have been killed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sudanese filmmaker and an activist, Abdallah Awad.
Dr Nandipha Magudumana will remain in custody after her bail application was denied by the Bloemfontein magistrate court. Magistrate Estelle de Lange says Magudumana played a huge role in the escape of her lover, Thabo Bester and can easily tamper with the evidence. Magudumana is facing charges of assisting an inmate to escape from lawful custody, violation of a dead body and defeating the ends of justice. De Lange added that Magudumana will easily intimidate her co-accused in the matter, as they have strong relationships and that she is a definite flight risk as she lied about her passports. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Magudumana's lawyer, Machini Motloung
Leader of Government Business and Deputy President Paul Mashatile says through collective effort and shared values, the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) can determine the trajectory and direction of the country. He was speaking at the Nedlac'sl 28th Annual National Summit currently underway at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg. The Nedlac Summit provides an opportunity for social partners from organised business, community, government and organised labour to receive and consider a report on the activities of the institution. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to reporter Naledi Ngcobo...
The National Treasury has proposed drastic measures to limit excessive government spending, warning of unprecedented challenges and deteriorating public finances. The measures will include a freeze on advertising new appointments, a big reduction in spending, and a call on departments to fund increases for public servants within departmental baselines. The Treasury has cited the weak performance of the economy and shortfalls in revenue collection as reasons for the stringent measures. The Budget Justice Coalition has cautioned that these budget cuts will have long-term detrimental effects on the economy and the progressive realization of socio-economic rights protected by the South African Constitution. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Motlatsi Komote, Chairperson of the Budget Justice Coalition
A head-on collision between a minibus taxi and a truck on the N1 near Louis Trichardt in Limpopo has left six people dead. The deceased were passengers and the driver. According to Limpopo Transport Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene among the deceased were an infant, two women, and three men. Bongiwe Zwane spoke toreporter, Lutendo Bobodi
ActionSA says the party's upcoming policy conference will be focused on 11 key policy areas which are based on ending corruption, promoting economic justice, improving the health-care system and promoting rural development, amongst others. The policy conference is set to take place between the 12 and the 14th of this month. The party held a media briefing a short while ago where it outlined its program of action ahead of the 2024 national elections. Chairperson of the party, Michael Beaumont says these are but some of the focus areas that they will focus on for deliberations at the conference.
Above three-thousand employers have been identified by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) as being behind on retirement contributions for their staff members by more than four months. Some employers owe money for more than 252 months. Other benefits, such risk benefits, are also impacted while the members' retirement benefits are jeopardized. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Manager of the Retirement Fund Conduct Supervision at Financial Sector Conduct Authority, Takalani Lukhaimane.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has called for stern action to be taken against the thousands of employers named by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority for defaulting on staff pension fund contributions. Above 3,000 employers have been identified by the FSCA as being behind on retirement contributions for their staff members by more than four months. Some employers owe money for more than 252 months. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu's Parliamentary Coordinator, Matthew Parks.
The Department of Human Settlement is currently conducting assessments of illegally occupied buildings in eThekwini. Some of the buildings belong to the Department and about 23 belong to the city of eThekwini. The Department says it is assessing the situation and will release plans to relocate these people to safer structures. This follows the deadly Johannesburg building fire that killed 77 people, highlighting once again the problem of hijacked buildings and their condition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonhlakanipho Magwaza
The Ekurhuleni Municipality has been fined almost one-point-five Million rands for failing to provide housing and land in 20 years after the applicants were allocated these. The municipality allocating such of being ordered to by the courts to do so in December 2018. The Court held that the municipality is in contempt of a December 2017 court order, in which it was compelled to provide houses and land to the one hundred and thirty-three applicants living in the Winnie Mandela informal settlement by December 2018. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Khululiwe Bhengu from The Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI).
The South African Police Service has been briefing the Portfolio Committee on Police on the implementation and progress regarding the Farlam Commission findings or the Marikana Report. The police also briefed the committee on the July 2021 Unrest Report. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington
Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi has announced that proposals are open for a multi-billion rand project aimed at changing the face of six of the country's ports of entry. Motsoaledi says construction at these chosen ports will act as a blueprint for future work to be done at all of the country's entry points. The project will be a partnership between government and the private sector and Motsoaledi says the re-development project will maximise safety measures and significantly decrease congestion...
Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Mgcini Tshwaku, says the City will be closing down Vannin Court in Hillbrow, as it has been deemed unsafe. This follows an inspection of the hijacked building, earlier today. The inspection is aimed at assessing the conditions of the building and to make a decision on when they are going to remove illegal occupants. This follows the tragic incient last week, where a hijacked building caught fire in Marshalltown, resulting in 77 deaths. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo reports
Suspended Public Protector, advocate Busiswe Mkhwebane, has made an about-turn about her return to work today. Mkhwebane, who arrived at the Public Protector Head offices in Pretoria a short while ago, did not enter the premises due to her safety. She says her protectors were instructed to withdraw from escorting her to the office where she had planned to report for duty. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Mkhwebane on what her next steps will be.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has established a Commission of Inquiry into the deadly Marshalltown fire that claimed 77 lives. More than 60 people were injured and many families are now homeless, after the fire gutted a hijacked building last week. The commission is to be chaired by retired Justice Sisi Khampepe. Meanwhile, government has asked families to visit the Diepkloof mortuary in Soweto to identify the bodies of their loved ones, some who were burnt beyond recognition. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Spokesperson for Gauteng Premier, Sizwe Pamla.
Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosi Ramakgopa says the high stages of load shedding are due to rampant maintenance. Ramakgopa was addressing the nation a short while following an announcement by Eskom that it will be implementing Stage 6 indefinitely. Ramakgopa warns that sacrifices have to be made to reach low stages of load shedding in future. For a look at the impact of constant load shedding on price inflation Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Agricultural Economist at the University of the Free State, Professor Frikkie Mare.
Statistics South Africa has released the gross domestic product figure for the second quarter, which shows the economy grew by 0-point-6 percent quarter-on-quarter, after growing by 0-point-4 percent in the first quarter. On a year-on-year basis, gross domestic product expanded by 1-point-6 percent in the second quarter. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to chief economist at The Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt.
Johannesburg motorists can now expect to be asked about their utility bills at roadblocks. This is according to the City of Johannesburg Chief Financial Officer, Tebogo Moraka. The city says this is part of a new strategy to enhance debt collection processes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the City of Johannesburg Chief Financial Officer, Tebogo Moraka.
The Eastern Cape Department of Health has launched a new treatment plan for people suffering from drug-resistant tuberculosis. The Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid, and Levofloxacin (BPaL-L) regimen is a three-drug, six-month, all-oral regimen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy Director General of the Department of Health in the Eastern Cape.
The Council for GeoScience has confirmed that a magnitude 3.62 tremor was recorded last night in the Westrand of Johannesburg. In July, a local magnitude 2.98 tremor was also recorded in several parts of Johannesburg while another in June, was estimated at 4.8. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Scientist from the Council for Geosciences Eldridge Kgaswane
Unhappy ratepayers within the Buffalo City Metro in the Eastern Cape have launched a court application at the East London High Court in an effort to remedy what they call a dysfunctional billing system. They are asking the Court to declare unlawful the practice of the municipality of only providing residents with 20% in units of their electricity purchase, as it will deduct the 80% for repayment of municipal debts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson of Buffalo City Municipality Samkelo Gwenya and attorney, Brandon Blignaut representing some of the ratepayers associations within Buffalo City Metro...
A group of senior military officers in Gabon seized power in the early hours of the morning after the Central African state's election body announced that President Ali Bongo had won a third term. In a television address, the coup leaders said they represented all Gabonese security and defence forces. They also announced that the election results were cancelled, all borders were closed until further notice and that state institutions were dissolved. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the leader of the Gabonese Diaspora, Eliezer Gomat...
Former ANC secretary Ace Magashule has announced the formation of a new political movement that is set to contest in next year's national elections. Magashule made the announcement from Soweto where he was flanked by various individuals who come from different provinces, including former Hawks head, Berning Ntlemeza. Magashule says the new formation will be known as the African Congress for Transformation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of the Centre for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution at the Nelson Mandela University, Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast...
Emmerson Mnangagwa has been declared president-elect in Zimbabwe. He has trounced his main rival, Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change. The opposition alleges that the election was rigged. ZANU-PF has been in power for more than four decades. Bongiwe Zwane, on update at noon, spoke to the Leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change, Nelson Chamisa.
Today marks 30 years since American exchange student Amy Biehl was killed in Gugulethu township, Cape Town. The 26-year-old researcher at the University of the Western Cape was a US Fulbright Scholar who was described by Nelson Mandela as a person who made the country's aspirations her very own' but unfortunately lost her life during the formative years of a democratic South Africa back in 1993. It was on this day while driving her black colleagues into Gugulethu township, that Amy came across a group of protesters who would drag her out of her car, stoned and stabbed her to death. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amy Biehl's mother, Linda Biehl...
Getting analysis and unpacking some of the latest key outcomes of the BRICS Summit 2023, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Thapelo Tsilapedi.
Young people from all the brics member states have spoken out in favor of creating a BRICS Youth Council during the 15th BRICS Summit. National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Chairperson Asanda Luwaca stated the recent 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Youth Conference reached an agreement on the creation of a Youth Council on Wednesday while speaking at the summit now taking place in Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo on update at noon spoke to National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Chairperson Asanda Luwaca
The BRICS group of nations has expanded from 5 to 11 member states. This was announced by BRICS Chairperson Cyril Ramaphosa at the adoption of the Johannesburg Declaration 2 by BRICS leaders in Sandton. The BRICS alliance, which is composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is set to invite Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to join, as they will become full members on January 1, 2024. Sakina Kamwendo on update at noon spoke to SABC economics editor Tshepo Mongoai and Climate Investor Amil Ebrahim
The BRICS nations of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, representing a quarter of the global economy, are meeting for the second day as part of a three-day summit. discussing, amongst other issues, expansion and increasing global influence at the BRICS summit that is underway in South Africa's economic capital, Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the founder of Weiner Limited and BRICS Summit 2023 delegate, Bah-Pna Dahane, as he said South Africa remains an inspiration for many African states through its participation in the BRICS Bloc.
Gauteng MEC for Economic Development: Tasneem Motara talks about how Gauteng Province seeks to familiarize investors from Brazil with the province's market in order to expand on the footprints made by China and Russia. Sakina Kamwendo on update at noon spoke to Gauteng MEC for Economic Development Tasneem Motara amid BRICSSummit2023
Director at Africa-Asia Dialogues, Thembisa Fakude, talks about the agenda being advanced by the BRICS countries at the BRICSSummit2023 and on South Africa's stance when it comes to maintaining a relationship and remaining neutral with the West and BRICS, looking at trade amongst BRICS member countries, and international media interest from those countries looking to join the BRICS bloc. Sakina Kamwendo, on an update at noon, spoke to the Director at Africa-Asia Dialogues, Thembisa Fakude.
Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, talks about the benefits of using the arts to strengthen ties within the BRICS bloc. The Minister meets with the Russian Special Envoy on Cultural Affairs, H.E. Mr. Mikhail Shvydkoy. On bilateral meeting focused on finding opportunities to strengthen cultural cooperation and advance the creative arts sectors of the two nations. The minister touched on the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Cooperation in the Field of Culture leading up to the 2023 BRICS summit that is currently underway at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo, on an update at noon, spoke to the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Zizi Kodwa.
Talking about all things Brics Summit 2023 and how South Africa leverages its BRICS membership to address its domestic challenges of load-shedding, inequality, poverty, and unemployment, As some economic benefits to South Africa of being a BRICS member include increased intra-BRICS trade, investment, tourism, capacity building, skills, and technology transfers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to The Deputy Director-General of Trade and Investments at the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Ms. Lerato Mataboge, on trade and investment opportunities and challenges facing South Africa and the rest of the continent, as well as Aleksei Kechko, a Russian BBC member and head of strategy at VEB.RF
As Brics gets underway to discuss various topics that extend beyond our newsrooms. update at noon with Sakina Kamwendo spoke to international media journalist from Venezuela covering the summit to look at media role and its coverage in Brics summit 2023, as Venezuela is one of the countries that has formally applied to join the BRICS group, Venezuela hopes to bring to the brics table oil reserves exports and skills on energy to brics associated countries, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Venezuela Journalists Graia Casella and Christina Torralba's
South Africa hosts the historic 15th Summit of BRICS nations: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It's the first BRICS summit to be hosted in person since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global restrictions. The BRICS mechanism aims to promote peace, security, development, and cooperation. It also aims at contributing significantly to the development of humanity and establishing a more equitable and fair world. With a sharp focus being put on the expansion of BRICS as more than 20 countries have formally applied to join BRICS, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vusi Mavimbela, the South African Ambassador to Brazil, about Brazil's change of leadership and how it impacts Brazil's perspective and their engagements with BRICS, and many more issues surrounding BRICS.
Tensions are brewing within the E-Hailing space following the introduction of the Buja Qute, a quadricycle operated by Botl. The Bujaj has been predominantly operating within the Central Johannesburg District including some parts of Johannesburg West. Drivers for traditional E-Hailing vehicles are however not impressed, expressing disdain at the competition while also raising safety concerns. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Secretary of the E-Hailing Partners Council , Chris Mnguni
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has released its report into the Phala Phala- following an investigation which was launched on the back of the allegations by Former intelligence boss, Arthur Fraser. The Reserve Bank says it has found that was no perfected transaction and cannot conclude that there was any contravention of the Exchange Control Regulations (the applicable Regulation is Regulation 6(1)) by a trust that operates President, Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala game farm, Ntaba Nyoni Estates. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Khaya Sithole who is an accountant, academic and activist and Democratic Alliance's Federal Finance Chairperson and Shadow Minster of Finance, Dr Dion George
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Another South African gold mine is going green with the generation of 30 MW of solar power in the Free State.
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An India-controlled zinc mine in the Northern Cape this week struck a deal to generate its own clean electricity.
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A company mining vanadium in North West province is going ahead with a 25 MW solar power project.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority - SAHPRA - has made the decision to withdraw pholcodine-containing medicines from the South African market due to the increased risk of sudden, severe, and life-threatening allergic reactions occurring during surgery. Pholcodine has been used as a cough suppressant since the 1950s. It is registered to treat dry coughs and is available in various non-prescription medicines. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Mafora Matlala, Pharmacovigilance Manager at Sahpra
Residents of Jerusalem Informal Settlement, South of Johannesburg are reeling in shock after having spent the night at the Florida police stations last night. The distraught residents fled from their homes, fearing for their lives following a shootout between suspected illegal miners. Women, children including infants were forced to sleep on the floor of the police station. Sebezile Nkambule spoke to City of Johannesburg's MMC for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku
That was Police Minister Bheki Cele, present the quarterly crime statistics. The latest crime statistics show that the murder rate has decreased by 3.1% between April and June this year. A total of 6228 people were killed in SA between April and June this year. This is compared to 6424 people who were killed in the same period last year. At the same time, more than 9,200 rape cases were reported, while over 5,600 housebreaking cases were recorded. There was a 2.0% drop in reported sexual offenses. Sebenzile Nkambule spoket to Professor Kholofelo Rakubu, Acting HOD Department of Safety and Security Management at Tshwane University of Technology
The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education is currently sitting and deliberating on the clauses of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill. The deliberations started on Monday but did not get off to a smooth start. On Tuesday the DA and ACDP walked out of the committee, but Wednesday all was back to normal. Yesterday the committee heard the Department of Basic Education would need R16 billion to implement all provisions of the Legislation. Some of the points the bill seeks to transform, and change include making Grade R the new compulsory school starting entry point, making it a criminal offence for parents not enrolling their children in a school and holding school governing bodies (SGBs) accountable for financial interests. We spoke to our reporter Abongwe Kobokana and National Association of School Governing Bodies General Secretary, Matakanye Matakanye on the matter.
Businesses in the agricultural town of Lichtenburg in the North West are down on their knees following serious electricity problems. They have had to survive with only one transformer for the past 21 days with Eskom refusing to switch them back on before a substantial payment has been made.
Eskom is owed an estimated R1 billion by the struggling municipality of Ditsobotla in the Northwest, which has been struggling to pay its utility bills. Since the beginning of this month (August 2), a sunflower oil crushing plant, has been unable to operate due to a widespread power outage. For more on this issue we spoke to Provincial Executive representative Muthotho Sigidi overseeing the state of affairs in Ditsobotla Municipality.
The Co-Chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINT), Lieutenant General, Tebello Mosikili says the Sandton Convention Centre, north of Johannesburg will be a no fly-zone from this coming Sunday. This is ahead of the much-anticipated 15th BRICS summit which will see heads of state, ministers, diplomats and the business fraternity - amongst others - gather from the Tuesday to Thursday next week. BRICS comprises of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Distinguished guests will also include the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. Lit.General Mosikili, who is also the deputy commissioner of the South African Police Service, says all security measures are in place to accept the country's international guests...
The two-day Multi-Party National Convention is underway in Kempton Park, East of Johannesburg. Seven political parties - the DA, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, United Independent Movement, Spectrum National Party and Independent South African National Civics Organisation have converged to craft a pre-election plan with the aim of forming an alternative government to the ANC following next year's elections. Leaders of the various parties have outlined their expectations at the to-day convention. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Busi Chimombe
Residents in Marikana say nothing much has changed since 34 mineworkers were killed by police in 2012. This is the official commemoration of the massacre getting into full swing in honour of those that died on this day, eleven years ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Zebilon Maine and Thabisile Phumo Executive Vice President: Stakeholder Relations at Sibanye-Stillwater
A municipality building has been allegedly set alight in Swellendam, Western Cape. Community members are protesting against a lack of service delivery. The N-2 highway at Swellendam in the Overberg region of the Western Cape is currently closed and traffic is being diverted through the town. Reports suggest that protesters laid burning debris and rocks across the road. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Overberg Municipality executive mayor, Andries Franken
The Section 194 committee has recommended that Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane be removed from office. The committee says it has satisfied itself that on the evidence it has, charges of misconduct and incompetence have been proven against Mkhwebane. Only two parties, the EFF and Al Jamaah expressed their opposition to the recommendation. The draft report should have been delivered to the suspended public protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, yesterday for her response. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Suspended Public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane
A child has been severely burnt at Ga-Mathabatha outside Lebowakgomo in Limpopo after a man allegedly set alight a house in which his partner and the child were sleeping. The perpetrator is known and police apparently refused to open a case. It is alleged police tried to mediate between the family of the burnt child and the perpetrator. Sakina Kamwendom spoke to reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi
Statistics South Africa released the unemployment rate for the second quarter, which declined slightly to 32-point-6 per cent from 32-point-9 per cent in the first quarter. The results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey indicate that the number of employed persons increased by 154 thousand to 16,3 million in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the first quarter of 2023. The number of unemployed persons decreased by 11-thousand to 7,9 million during the same quarter. Meanwhile, South Africa's unemployment rate remains a thorn in the side of many young people. Shawn Theunissen, social entrepreneur and founder of Property Point says South Africa can improve its youth unemployment crisis by creating awareness of available employability training opportunities and educating SMEs on their crucial role in empowering youth while growing the economy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Shawn Theunissen, social entreprenuer and founder of Property Point
Convicted child rapist and sex trafficker, Gerhard Ackerman has been handed 12 life terms for his crimes by the Gauteng High Court. Ackerman was found guilty of over 700 crimes which also include, being in possession of child pornography as well as creating and broadcasting pornographic material. He was charged alongside the former acting judge Paul Kennedy who committed suicide following his arrest. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Prabashini Naicker...
The murder trial of Senzo Meyiwa is underway in the High Court in Pretoria. The state has called a new witness, Sergeant Mandla Masondo. Last week, two digital forensic experts were called to testify about the chain of evidence. Five men are on trial for the murder of the soccer star. Sakina Kamwendon spoke to reporter Pearl Magubane
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says the unbundling of Power Utility, Eskom is not the answer to the country's energy problems. The union accuses Eskom together with the Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan of unilaterally implementing the decision to sell Eskom's distribution assets to a new state-owned company, without proper consultation with key stakeholders such as the unions and the public. NUM's Energy Sector Coordinator, Khangela Baloyi says the decision to unbundle Eskom is a first step towards the privatization of Eskom. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Energy Sector Coordinator, Khangela Baloyi
Dr Mathole Motshekga has withdrawn as the guardian of Rain Queen-elect Princess Masalanabo Modjadji. Motshekga has written to the High Court in Pretoria to withdraw as a guardian and applicant in the interdict to stop the coronation of Masalanabo's brother Lekukela as king of Balobedu. He is citing that he can't afford the costs of the legal dispute between him and the Modjadjis. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Mathole Motshekga
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Major global mining companies this week singled out Africa as their biggest and best investment destination.
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It is impossible for the world to fight off the huge climate change threat without metals and minerals from Africa.
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Namibia this week caught the eye yet again as a country of choice when it comes to foreign mining investment.
Martin Creamer will be back at the Coal-Face at the same time next Friday.
West Africa's regional bloc is forging ahead with plans for the activation of a standby force for possible use against the military junta that took power in Niger in July, saying it wanted a peaceful restoration of democracy, but all options, including force, were on the table. The remarks came as the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met in Nigeria's Abuja on Thursday for an emergency summit to discuss responses to last month's military takeover in Niger after the coup leaders defied their earlier threat to use force to restore democracy. This comes after the ruling junta ignored an ultimatum, which expired on Sunday, for ousted President Mohamed Bazoum to be reinstated. Sakina
Kamwendo spoke to International Crisis Group, and Senior Advisor for African Union Liesl Louw-Vaudran
Members of the Section 194 parliamentary committee have, this morning, been going through a draft report on suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. The draft report has been divided into three with the first part focused on the charges put forward against Mkhwebane while the second part covers the evidence gathered. The last part of the report is mainly focused on the conclusion made including recommendations that have been put forward. If the committee adopts the report, it will then be presented to the National Assembly which will decide whether Mkhwebane should be impeached or not. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Joseph Mosia
Police Minister Bheki Cele says the release of former President, Jacob Zuma on remission is within the South African law. This follows criticism by some opposition parties and ordinary South Africans who say it's unlawful and the timing is questionable. The Department of Correctional Services says this is part of their programme which will also benefit at least nine thousand other prisoners who are jailed for non-violent crimes. Cele says he believes there's nothing suspicious about a decision to make the former president a beneficiary of the latest remissions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Glynnis Breytenbach, DA's shadow Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development and legal expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala of Zikalala Attorneys
Ugandan economists say the World Bank's move to halt loans to Uganda over the country's anti-gay law could reverse its economic gains. The country has just recorded the lowest inflation in the last fifteen months -- which was considered an indication it was recovering from the COVID-19 Shocks. SABC's Hillary Ayesiga reports from Kampala...
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) says it has found that the rural area of Umzimkhulu in Kwazulu-Natal is plagued high levels of child marriages, gender-based violence, child abuse, and neglect amongst other social ills. The Commission's KZN provincial manager, Zanele Ncwane, says the commission has been working with the community of Umzimkhulu since 2019 after a non-profit organization (NGO) alerted it to the case of a 15-year-old who was married off to an older man. Meanwhile, Stats SA has also revealed that South Africa recorded 207 child marriages in 2021, of which 188 were brides and 19 were grooms. Statistics South Africa revealed this to the African Union special rapporteur who is currently in the country to monitor and evaluate progress on how South Africa is performing in its campaign to end child marriages. For more on this we spoke to KZN's provincial head for Commission for Gender Equality manager Zanele Ncwane
Niger mediation efforts have stalled after the leaders of a July coup rejected another diplomatic mission. Neighbouring allies who back the armed take over appealed to the United Nations to prevent a military intervention.
Niger's junta denied entry to a joint delegation from African countries and the United Nations yesterday, resisting pressure to negotiate ahead of a summit on Thursday in which the main regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), will discuss possible use of force. The coup leaders defied a deadline to reinstate the ousted president on Sunday. The possibility of military intervention will also be discussed, but ECOWAS has said it is a last resort. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nigerian journalist, Jonathan James Lyamgohn
Gauteng Social Development MEC Mbali Hlophe has confirmed that a toddler seen in a horrific video being violently kicked by her mother has been moved to a place of safety, away from the mother. The horrific video, which has since gone viral, depicts the mother also applying pressure with her foot on the neck of the child as he lay on the floor. A case of child abuse has been being investigated, and the mother of the child is expected to appear in court tomorrow. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Mbali Hlophe
The City of Cape Town has declared that it will press criminal charges against the leadership of the South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO, for acts of violence and unrest that were caused during SANTACO's ongoing taxi strike in the Western Cape, which started last week
The provincial Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha is today meeting with the taxi industry leadership, as well as their counterparts in the bus industry, to find a solution to attacks on both local and long-distance buses, allegedly by taxi operators. The most recent incident was the burning of two buses from AB350 in Cacadu two months ago. This meeting comes after a second court order was obtained by Intercape in the Makhanda high court, compelling the Minister of Transport and SAPS to develop a comprehensive safety and security plan to protect its passengers and drivers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eastern Cape provincial transport spokesperson Unathi Binqose..
The City of Cape Town has declared that it will press criminal charges against the leadership of the South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO, for acts of violence and unrest that were caused during SANTACO's ongoing taxi strike in the Western Cape, which started last week. A man has been shot and killed and three others injured in Nyanga (on the Cape Flats) amid the ongoing taxi strike in the province. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cape Town's mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith..
The police in the Eastern Cape are investigating an apparent suicide murder tragedy that played out in Butterworth at the Weekend. It is believed that a mother of three first killed her daughters before taking her own life. Police spokesperson, Col Priscilla Naidu says a neighbour found the 38-year-old, Bongeka Buso, hanging in her rondavel on Sunday morning. Her two younger daughters were found on the bed while her 14-year-old was stabbed in the neck. Meanwhile, the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has gathered in the very same community where this tragic incident happened. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Busisiwe Jemsana-Mantashe, speaking on behalf of the province's MEC for Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, who is still engaging with community members...
The police in the Eastern Cape are investigating an apparent suicide murder tragedy that played out in Butterworth at the Weekend. It is believed that a mother of three first killed her daughters before taking her own life.
The City of Cape Town authorities say officers have made 27 arrests following the blockade of the N-2 highway by taxi drivers, while police have arrested eight taxi drivers in Mfuleni. In the early hours of this morning, approximately 30 taxis blocked the N-2 inbound at Borcherd's Quarry. Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith says numerous incidents have been reported, including four Golden Arrow buses being torched. Four private vehicles were set alight. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Atule Joka
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane is vising Queens High School in Johannesburg following the death of Brian Ndlovu, a Grade 9 boy learner from the school. Brian Ndlovu died after he was allegedly bullied by another learner and forced to consume poison. His mother, Mildred Ndlovus says the law must take its course. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
A group of various lawyer associations have defended their call to have Road Accident Fund CEO, Collins Letsoalo removed. Ten professional bodies in the legal fraternity including the Black Lawyers Association(BLA), The Law Society of South Africa (LSSA), and the South African Medical Association Medico-Legal Association (SAMLA) and others have signed an urgent memorandum over what they describe as a crisis at the fund. They accuse the fund of mismanagement due to the delay in claim payments, poor communication, and incapacity. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to RAF CEO, Collins Letsoalo and Gauteng Chairperson of the Black Lawyers Association, Theo Mapheto...
The West African regional bloc ECOWAS has given Niger's coup leaders one week to hand over power to the President of that country or face possible military intervention. The deadline comes after Niger's democratically elected president was toppled by members of his presidential guard last week. Members of ECOWAS led by Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu gave Niger's junta leaders a week to release and reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to International Crisis Group and Senior Advisor for African Union Liesl Louw-Vaudran...
WaterCAN has opened a criminal charge against the City of Joburg municipal managers for sewage pollution and says it is time to hold the people accountable for not doing their jobs. According to the initiative, the City of Johannesburg municipal manager Floyd Brink and former manager Bryne Maduka have failed to stop a year-long sewage spill blamed on infrastructure failure. Dr Ferrial Adam, Executive Manager for WaterCAN says polluting water is a violation of basic rights, including the right to health. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Ferrial Adam, Executive Manager for WaterCAN
The Gauteng police have opened an inquiry into the death of a grade 9 pupil from Queens High School in Johannesburg. 15-year-old, Brian Ndlovu was allegedly forced to drink poison. The family says he got sick after returning from school. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the mother of the boy, Mildred Ndlovu...
The Nama-Khoi Municipality in the Northern Cape says efforts to excavate more bodies at a tailing dump site near Kleinzee in the Namaqualand region are continuing. This follows the discovery of 13 bodies after a tunnel collapsed at a mining site. Local police say seven of the 13 bodies were found atop the tailing dump while one was found under the tailing dump. Municipal spokesperson, Jason Milford says local authorities have been working endlessly to retrieve more possible bodies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Municipal spokesperson, Jason Milford...
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has licensed the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA) to operate the country's transmission system. Eskom has welcomed the decision of the NERSA. Eskom will be divided into three entities: generation, distribution, and transmission, which form a key part of Eskom's Turnaround Plan as detailed in the Department of Public Enterprises' Roadmap for Eskom in a Reformed Electricity Supply Industry. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Full-time Regulator Member primarily responsible for Electricity Regulation at NERSA. Nhlanhla Gumede
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal of High Court Judge Tintswalo Annah Nana Makhubele resumed today. The tribunal is considering allegations of misconduct in relation to Judge Makhubele's time as chair of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) board. This is after commuter activist organisation #UniteBehind laid the complaint with the Judicial Service Commission in 2019 accusing Makhubele of misconduct when she took up dual roles of Gauteng High Court judge and chairperson of the PRASA board. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Canny Maphanga...
The sixth General Assembly of the Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA) has begun its second day in Kempton Park. The General Assembly focuses on the global fight against corruption and money laundering, exchanges on national experiences in the fight against corruption and illicit financial flows, as well as the importance of cooperation and coordinated approaches for asset recovery in Africa. The subject of the General Assembly is "Promote citizen engagement in the fight against corruption and illicit financial flows, ensuring the African continent's holistic development. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Andy Mothibi Head of the Special Investigating Unit
The South African National Parks celebrated World Ranger Day in Tsitsikamma in the Eastern Cape. Tribute was paid to the rangers, who were killed or injured on duty. The day was also dedicated to recognising the brave men and women for their outstanding work in protecting our natural heritage and resources. Meanwhile, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy earlier today gave her latest report on measures to combat Rhino poaching. This is as the country has seen a shift in poaching from the Kruger National Park to KwaZulu-Natal's EzeMvelo-KZN Wildlife. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister Creecy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy
Riverlea residents, South of Johannesburg say their plea for police visibility in the area seems to have fallen on deaf ears. This is despite an assurance by Police Minister, Bheki Cele that he would ensure the deployment of the Tactical Response Unit - Amabherete - in the area as a matter of urgency. The community took to the streets yesterday complaining of living in fear following an alleged turf war between illegal miners which resulted in a shot out and death of five Zama-Zamas over the weekend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Sashin Naidoo...
Residents from Riverlea in the south of Johannesburg took to the streets to protest against violence allegedly linked to illegal mining. Five suspected zama zamas were killed at the weekend in Riverlea, following an alleged turf war between rival factions. They believe corrupt police officers are allowing illegal miners to operate in the community freely. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Sashin Naidoo and Mining Expert, Sifiso Dladla...
Parliament's Section 194 committee, looking into the fitness of the suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane to hold office, is compiling its draft report. The existence of the committee follows the National Assembly's adoption of a motion to probe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office, after several negative court findings against her. Suspended Public Protector's term of office ends on the 15th of October. Many times the work of the committee was delayed, including two recusal applications for the chairperson, Qubudile Dyantyi and court challenges against the Parliamentary process. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC repoter Lulama Matya..
The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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Gold is being taken out of the West Rand mine dumps in an impressive new R2.5-billion development project.
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A new opencast mine will begin producing platinum group metals in Limpopo by year-end.
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The generation of green hydrogen was this week declared fully competitive.
Just days before the start of the African National Congress (ANC) Veterans League Conference, its presidential hopeful, Tony Yengeni, has been barred from contesting for the post. Yengeni was set to square off with party veteran Dr Snuki Zikalala, who is the Convener of the Veterans League. He says he got an invitation stating that he can only attend the conference as a guest and not as a delegate. The ANC Veterans' League will hold its National Conference this weekend to elect new leaders. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC NEC member Tonny Yengeni
The Institute for Economic Justice together with the #PayTheGrants, have filed an application at the Pretoria High Court to challenge regulations which they say exclude many eligible people from getting the Social Relief Grant. They say fewer people have access to the grant today than was the case at its peak in March 2022. The latest research estimates at least 16 million people should be eligible for the SRD grant. Yet, in May 2023, while 14.4 million applied for the grant, only 8.4 million were approved, with 7.1 million people actually being paid. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Chairperson of the #PayTheGrant, Elizabeth Raiters...
Residents of Mqhekezweni in the Eastern Cape live in fear as criminals demand protection fee, or they could be victims of rape. The chief in that area has indicated that they are aware of this and the community is patrolling however the challenge is that the criminals are armed with guns. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude...
Qubudile Dyantjie, Chairperson of the Section 194 committee probing the fitness of suspended public protector Adv Busisiwe Mkhwebane has briefed the committee on the application by Mkhwebane to remove himself from presiding over her inquiry. Dyantyi has decided not to recuse himself and says Mkhwebane failed to provide all the recordings she relied on in the recusal application. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter in parliament, Joseph Mosia..
Workers at the Cape Town Office of the State Attorney are enraged that one of their colleague has been on sick leave for seven years while receiving full pay and benefits. Despite being watched by coworkers while on regular holiday trips Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Solicitor-General within the department of Justice and Correctional Services Fhedzisani Pandelani
Individuals wishing to establish and operate non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and religious institutions may soon undergo mandatory vetting by state security services to evaluate whether they pose a threat to national security. President Cyril Ramaphosa's Cabinet recently adopted the 2023 General Intelligence Law Amendment Bill (Gilab), which makes numerous substantial changes to the laws governing the State Security Agency (SSA), South Africa's leading government intelligence and security body. Gilab is part of Ramaphosa's government's response to the SSA's deeply rooted problems, including political factionalism, mismanagement of millions in clandestine funding, and a general disdain for the law and the Constitution. Daily Maverick freelancer Heidi Swart j
Russia-Africa Summit aims to foster mutually beneficial cooperation and partnerships between Russia and the African continent. This 2nd Summit is expected to consider four declarations and a three-year Action Plan, which will be presented for consideration. Russian president Vladimir Putin has welcomed African leaders at the 2nd Humanitarian and Economic Russia/Africa summit currently ongoing in St' Petersburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of International Relations and Director at the African Centre for the Study of the United States at Wits University, Professor Gilbert Khadiagala
The Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector has shortlisted eight names from 38 nominees. Those nominated include the Acting public protector advocate Kholeka Gcaleka. The interviews will now take place over two days next month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC news' senior reporter Mercedes Besent...
Pressure continues to mount on the leadership of the Road Accident Fund following calls for its CEO, Collins Letsoalo and RAF board members to resign. Various stakeholders made the call within the legal fraternity after writing to the government seeking urgent intervention. The lawyers highlighted in their letter what they described as a state of chaos and ineffectiveness in servicing road accident claimants. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Road Accident Fund CEO Collins Letsoalo...
Workers at the Office of the State Attorney in Cape Town are furious that one of their coworkers has been on sick leave for seven years while getting full pay and benefits. This is despite being observed by co-workers while on routine vacations. The employee is accused of posting herself on social media while on vacation and appearing well. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokeperson for Public Servants Association, Ruben Maleka
Various stakeholders within the legal fraternity have called on the government to urgently intervene in what they have described as a deteriorating situation at the Road Accident Fund. Long queues, unprocessed claims and poorly administered block settlements have shaped the fund's head offices in Pretoria. Now a collection of the legal fraternity, including the Law Society of South Africa and the Black Lawyers Association, has called for the immediate dismissal of the current RAF board and CEO. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the president of the Black Lawyers Association, Advocate Bayethe Maswazi...
DA Shadow Minister of Police Andrew Whitfield is expected to lay criminal charges against Police Minister Bheki Cele and the National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola. The charges are in connection with the illegal possession of spy equipment, known as "grabbers," by the South African Police Service. Whitfield says Minister Cele admits to unlawfully purchasing grabbers without obtaining the required exemption certificate under the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA Shadow Minister of Police Andrew Whitfield...
The ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has warned the Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan, that he could be moved from his portfolio if he doesn't carry out the ANC transport policy. During his address at the ANC Women's League Conference at the Nasrec Expo Centre, south of Johannesburg, over the weekend, Mbalula said the ANC expects performance from its deployees to the government. A few hours after this threat was issued, the ANC issued a statement saying Gordhan's job was not on the line, as alleged by Mbalula. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst Sandile Swana...
Amid diplomatic tensions with the US over an alleged sale of arms to Russia, South Africa continues to make a case for its ongoing designation as a beneficiary of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which extends preferential trade access to the American market on certain goods. South Africa is having virtual oral representations with the US government beginning today to keep the trade benefits provided by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa). Agoa is due to expire in 2025, and there has been much speculation that it might be replaced with new trade agreements between the US and African countries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Researcher at Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy, Dr Mmatlou Kalaba..
It's that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
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This week, The big Impala Platinum mine took steps to generate its own electricity for its mining operations.
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Gold in Gauteng's old dumps must be recovered to boost the economy, a meeting in the Golden City heard this week.
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South Africans were this week urged to go all out to promote platinum globally as a climate crisis saviour.
Martin Creamer speaking to Sakina Kamwendo
Authorities are scrambling to find answers regarding the recent Joburg CBD explosion that killed one person and injured 48 others. The City of Johannesburg's preliminary investigation has identified three possible scenarios that could have led to Wednesday's blast in the CBD. These ongoing explosions have raised serious concern among many that urgent interventions are seriously needed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hulme Scholes, Director of Melan Scholes Attorney.
It has been reported that the Emfuleni Local Municipality has been paying a salary of about R40-thousand a month to a senior engineering technician who hasn't been to work in four years. This was revealed by Gauteng cooperative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs MEC, Mzi Khumalo, in a written reply to DA MPL Kingsol Chabalala's questions tabled in the legislature in May. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Emfuleni local municipality spokesperson, Makhosonke Sangweni...
The parents of the Enyobeni Tavern victims are meeting with the Eastern Cape health department officials at their forensic laboratory in East London. They are demanding a release of the documents citing the cause of death of their children. This follows the end of 21 patrons at Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park, East London, in June last year. The parents were informed verbally last year that asphyxiation was the cause of death, and they were not given any form of documentation. Sakina Kamwedo spoke to reporter Lubabalo Dada
All parties in the DA case have agreed that the matter should no longer proceed in the High Court in Pretoria. The DA initially launched an application to compel the government to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin should he arrive in the country after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for him over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. The decision comes after confirmation that Putin will not attend next month's BRICS summit in South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke reporter Canny Maphanga...
Families of the 79 people who were exhumed by Eskom at Manogeng near De Hoop dam are taking the power utility and its implementing agent to the High Court in Polokwane High Court, for not following the correct procedures when the remains were exhumed. The remains of 79 people were exhumed five years ago and they have been kept in the shipping containers since then, until they were re-buried in Apricot this year. The families accuse Eskom of mixing up the remains without profiling them as per individual and that Eskom refused to conduct DNA tests on the remains, to determine their relatives and profile the remains. It's understood that Eskom didn't inform the families when they exhumed the bodies and it's now accused of burying them without identifying them. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Lawyer representing these families advocate Martin Moela
Motorist have been advised to use alternative routes as Lilian Ngoyi Street remains closed in central Johannesburg following the explosion where 48 people have been injured, and one person has died. Videos seen on social media showed cars and minibus taxis toppling along Bree Street. Bongiwe Zwane Spoke to JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla
speculation is rife as some have linked Joburg gas explosion disaster to the illegal mining zama-zamas as an underground gas line explosion could be the main source of this catastrophic ordeal that has left Bree and Rissik Street cracked open. Videos making rounds have depicted huge and lengthy cracks that have pierced through the roads causing what appears to be a large sinkhole and uneven surface in that part of the JHB CBD. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Former employee at Joburg Roads Agency and now an independent Consultant Conel Cassius McKay
South African consumers can breath a sigh of relief, for now. Consumer price inflation for June, has gone down to 5,4% from 6,3% in May. This is the first time the inflation has been in the South African Reserve Bank's target range of 3% to 6% since April 2022. Also this is the lowest inflation the country has seen since October 2021. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Elize Kruger independent Economic analyst
Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, will no longer be present at the BRICS Summit in August. Instead, the Russian Federation will be represented by Sergey Lavrov, its foreign minister. This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa had earlier claimed that detaining Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is sought by the International Criminal Court, would constitute a declaration of war in an answering affidavit to a DA suit in the Johannesburg High Court. According to Ramaphosa, it is his constitutional duty to uphold the republic's peace and national sovereignty. If Putin showed up for the Brics conference, which South Africa will host in August, the DA had petitioned the court to order the government to place him under arrest. South Africa's relations with the West have recently deteriorated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gustavo de Carvalho Senior Researcher at South African Institute of International Affairs
Student organization's at the North West University, Mahikeng Campus are embarking on a donation drive for the defunded students. The campaign, called "fund the defunded" seeks to help students that are reportedly defunded by NSFAS. The donation seeks to solicit needs like food and toiletries for students who are said to be wrongfully defunded. While the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says processes are under way to withdraw funds from undeserving students, some of those defunded at the North West University says it is not true that they do not qualify. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF student command NWU Mafikeng campus its chairperson Phemelo Liagile
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussed with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan ways of exporting Russian grain via routes "that would not be susceptible to Kyiv and the West's sabotage", Russia's foreign ministry said on Tuesday. A year-old deal to permit Ukraine to export grain from its Black Sea ports despite Russia's war in Ukraine lapsed on Tuesday after Russia suspended its participation. Russia says the West failed to meet its obligations under a parallel agreement to facilitate exports of Russian grain and fertilizer in the face of Western economic sanctions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to, Agricultural Economist at the National Agricultural Marketing Council Thabile Nkunjana
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officiated at the unveiling of one of two statues of late struggle icon, Nelson Mandela at his birthplace of Qunu, outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Speaking on the statues, Nelson Mandela Museum CEO, Vuyani Booi earlier said the figures aim not only to pay tribute to Mandela, but also to contribute to local economic development and create opportunities for the youth. Sakina Kamwendo Spoke to SABC reporter Ntebo Mokobo
The two like-minded parties Pan Africanist Congress of Azania and the Azanian People's Organization have joined forces in an attempt to garner support from voters in the upcoming 2024 general elections. The two parties met in a joint Election Summit at the weekend in Johannesburg to map out their election pact for the polls. For a look at how this pact will work and what impact it is expected to have on the polls, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AZAPO President, Nelvis Qekema.
The high court in Johannesburg has ruled to invalidate the decisions, resolutions, and election results that arose from the ANC's Ekurhuleni Regional conference held in May 2022. As a consequence, the ANC has been ordered to cover the costs associated with the application. now that the high court has ruled that the ANC conference outcomes be set aside and therefore invalid - what happens next and what it all means. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to chairperson of ANC in Ekurhuleni Jongiziwe Dlabathi
The high court in Pretoria has postponed to Tuesday the trial of 5 men accused of murdering soccer star Senzo Meyiwa. Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng is now taking over and is presiding over the trial. The trial was postponed last month after judge Tshifhiwa Maumela fell ill and was also suspended following allegations he failed to deliver numerous reserved judgments, with some dating as far back as 2016.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Managing Director at Donda Attorneys, Melusi Xulu
A sizeable number of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college graduates are still waiting for their certificates. Students, mostly from disadvantaged family backgrounds have raised concerns on Update at noon, complaining about the delays in the issuing of their certificates. They allege that some TVET colleges are withholding their certificates due to outstanding fees or at times Colleges would claim they had not received the certificates from the department of higher education and training. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Director for National Examinations and Assessment within the department of Higher Education and Training, Violet Tshetlo.
The Constitutional Court says investigations by the suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane into President Cyril Ramaphosa could not expose the president to a conflict of interest in her suspension. This is according to Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya who over-turned the decision of the Western Cape High Court which had declared Mkhwebane's suspension as invalid. Ramaphosa had suspended Mkhwebane in June last year following her decision to initiate an investigation into the theft of the president's Phala Phala Game Farm. Delivering the judgement, Deputy Chief Justice says Mkhwebane's suspension did nothing for the benefit of the president. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga and Senior Legal Analyst and Member of the South African Bar Association, Advocate, Romeo Nthambeleni
Police Minister, Bheki Cele together with police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola and his top brass from KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Gauteng have addressed members of the media on the continuing torching of trucks in the various provinces. This follows the latest incident where three trucks were set alight, this time on the N2 between Ermelo and Piet Retief in Mpumalanga. This brings the total number of trucks torched since the weekend to sixteen in what has been described as a coordinated attack on the industry. Minister Cele says investigations are continuing into the spate.
The demerit system on licenses back on track after Transport department won with point system in the Constitutional Court. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) has suffered a defeat in its bid to have the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (Aarto) Act declared invalid and unconstitutional. Outa had won its case in January last year when the Pretoria High Court ruled that both the Aarto Act were inconsistent with the Constitution. However, then Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula lodged an appeal with the ConCourt. During court proceedings , Chief Justice Raymond Zondo ruled in favour of the Transport Ministry, but made no costs order against Outa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to OUTA CEO, Wayne Duvenage.
Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka has gotten the most nominations for the job of the new Public Protector. This is as the ad hoc Committee met this morning to discuss the nominations and applications. The committee has since adopted to publish the list of the nominated individuals for public comment. Ad Hoc Committee chairperson, Cyril Xaba explains.
Three more trucks have been set-alight by unknown suspects along the R574 road between Lydenburg and Sekhukhune in Limpopo. This follows the torching of two more trucks on the N2 between Richards Bay and eMpangeni on the North Coast. Its alleged a group of armed men attacked the truck drivers and robbed them of their belongings while waiting on a queue along the stretch of the freeway. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal are investigating a case of armed robbery, malicious damage to property and attempted murder following the torching of two more trucks on the N2 between Richards Bay and eMpangeni on the North Coast. Its alleged a group of armed men attacked the truck drivers and robbed them of their belongings while waiting on a queue along the stretch of the freeway, torching of six trucks at the weekend on the N3 at the Van Reenen's Pass. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to president of the Truckers Association Association of South Africa, Mary Phadi
The South African Post Office has been placed in business rescue by the North Gauteng High Court. This is after it was placed in provisional liquidation in February due to its failure to pay rent and other liabilities. Meanwhile, the Acting Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Enoch Godongwana has welcomed the decision of the North Gauteng High Court and says this decision will give SAPO the much needed time and space to restructure its affairs. SAPO business rescue starts immediately. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tiaan Herbst from the Southern African Advisory Company
The situation in Tshwane University of Technology TUT is quite tense as students have embarked on a protest action, academic activities have been affected from campuses like Soshanguve, Pretoria west and Emalahleni. Student bodies say among their concerns is persistent delays to pay out monthly students allowances by NSFAS. They're calling on the ministry of Higher Education to swiftly intervene. SASCO on the other hand wants NSFAS to reinstate all payments for thousands of students who have been defunded for reasons not clearly explained to the beneficiaries. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to South African Students Congress (SASCO) President, Vezinhlanhla Simelane
Johannesburg residents and surroundings are advised to stock up on water ahead of scheduled water cuts. Rand Water will implement a planned maintenance to tie-in two valves from tomorrow to Friday the 14th of July. The 58-hour project will be undertaken to replace multiple valves at the Vereeniging Water Treatment Plant, Eikenhof Booster Pumping Station and Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant. The last part of the project will be work on electrical boards at Lethabo Pumping Station. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Rand Water Spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo
At least five trucks have been set alight in the early hours of the morning on the N4 near Waterval Boven in Mpumalanga. This follows the torching of six other trucks on the N3 in kwaZulu-Natal yesterday, in what has been described as a coordinated attack on the road freight sector. The motive for the attacks is not known but police are investigating. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to General Secretary of the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South Africa, Sifiso Nyathi
While a 52-year-old woman awaits to be sentenced in the Ermelo magistrate's court after she abducted a new born baby 22 years ago, her now 22-year-old victim has called for all the charges against her to be dropped . The woman, who can not be named, was was found guilty of kidnapping after she abducted the newborn girl hours after she and her mom were discharged from the Emerlo Provincial hospital in 2001. Over two decades later, the 22-year-old was found by her biological brother on Facebook. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to SABC reporter, Nsikelelo Nkuna.
CAF president and businessman, Patrice Motsepe has been lauded for intervening in the impasse between Banyana Banyana and the South African Football Association (SAFA). This as Banyana Banyana prepare to leave for New Zealand and the FIFA Women's World Cup on Wednesday. Earlier in the week a stand-off ensued between Banyana Banyana and SAFA over contractual and financial issue. Speaking on behalf of the Motsepe Foundation, Dr Precious Moloi Motsepe emphansised the importance of supporting the women's team.
The African National Congress has called for harsh action to be taken against the police allegedly involved at the road rage. The organisastion says SAPS members were caught on camera assaulting a motorist and his passenger should be dealt with. The four of the eight PPU members have since been served with notices of suspension. ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula has called for the immediate suspension of those involved and urged minister of Police and the IPID to quickly investigate the matter
Labour Federation, COSATU says its all systems go for its planned National Day of Action tomorrow. The protected strike action is aimed at raising concern over amongst other issues what workers have described as an attack on collective bargaining, the high cost of living, unemployment, the energy crisis and gender based violence. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to COSATU's parliamentary representative, Mathew Parks.
U.N aid agencies say they're alarmed at the scale of Israel's military operation in Jenin Refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, which is continuing for a second day. The U.N. Security Council will meet behind closed-doors on Friday to discuss the Middle East, following Israel's biggest WestBank military operation in years. The raids left ten Palestinians dead and about 100 more injured, with 20 in critical condition, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to spokesperson for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, Juliette Touma.
Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) has called for finality in resolving the re-opening of the Cape Town central railway line. The railway line, between Nyanga and Cape Town, was closed for about three years after people built shacks along it, raising safety concerns for both the shack dwellers and commuters. The line is only partially operating between Nyanga and Maitland, as negotiations continue on the relocation of the shack dwellers. MPS together with Prasa officials embarked on a site visit to the railway line. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Zalene Merrington
The Inkatha Freedom Party has expressed sadness and regret following the gunning down of yet another one of its councilors. Innocent Mkhwanazi was recently shot and killed on his way to St Lucia in Durban. His killing comes a few days after the African Cristian Democratic Party's city of Umhlathuze Councillor, Pastor John Myaka, who was also shot dead while on the pulpit at his church in Nseleni last week. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to IFP spokesperson, Mkhulekwa Hlengwa
The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (SAAPA) is calling on the Eastern Cape government and Eastern Cape Liqour Board to close down taverns and other outlets that host alcohol parties for minors. This follows the death of a teenager after a pens down drinking party in East London. SAAPA says a total of 25 children have died in the province in the last 13 months in circumstances where alcohol use was involved. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Terri-Liza Fortein from the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance
The United Democratic Front is set to mark 40 years since its formation back in August the 20th 1983. The mass movement and anti-apartheid body was a collection of a united front of churches, civic associations, trade unions, student organisations and sports bodies. Some of the key figures behind this mass movement include Reverend Alan Boesak, the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Albertina Sisulu, Oscar Mpetha, and Helen Joseph. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to former UDF leader, Mkhuseli Jack.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has condemned the brutal force of his Presidential Security detail that beat up people driving in a polo. Mashatile's spokesperson Vukani Mde says the Deputy President dislike any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to National Police spokesperson, Colonel Athlenda Mathe
Today is D-Day for Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda following his commitment to begin providing much needed services to the residents of Diepkloof hostels in Soweto. Disgruntled residents took to the streets last week barricading the N1, the N12 interchange and the Chris Hani Road with burning tyres, debris and stones. Media and Police vehicles were also attacked and a beer truck was looted. Residents have been protesting over a lack of services in the area which includes the provision of electricity and running water. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole who is in Diepkloof...
Former president Thabo Mbeki has paid homage to veteran struggle activist Sally Motlana, describing her as a true patriotic and pillar of strength for many during the fight for liberation. Mbeki was speaking during the funeral service of the late Motlana which is being held at the All Saints Anglican Church in Sandton, north of Johannesburg. Motlana died at the age of 96 last month and was instrumental in the South African Council of Churches' adoption of a public stand against apartheid. Mbeki says Motlana was not happy with the ANC at the time of her passing...
Northern Cape MEC for Public Works & Roads MEC Fufe Makotong is today visiting the area to assess the state of the damaged roads infrastructure. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Karabo Siyoko
Four bodies have now been recovered after five people went missing following the heavy rains and flooding in the Northern Cape, Namaqualand region, The search continues for the last person who is still missing. Heavy machinery has been deployed to excavate and clear some roads, five towns are completely cut-off and some households are running out of supplies. A helicopter has been deployed to deliver much needed relief aid to those towns that are affected. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Mayor of Nama khoi Municipality, Dr Gustav Bock.
Police in Atok outside Burgersfort, in Limpopo are continuing with investigations after a group of suspected illegal miners allegedly drowned in a local river. Police say a group of suspected zama-zamas were fleeing from authorities during a raid in the area on Sunday, when they jumped into the river and many of them never resurfaced. For a look at the current state of illegal mining, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to s Mining Expert from ActionAid South Africa, Sifiso Dladla
The Judicial Conduct Committee is expected to meet in Johannesburg today to process some of the complaints laid against some of the country's judges. There has been an increasing number of judges who have been reported to the Judicial Service Commission for alleged misconducct, inmcluding Judge President John Hlophe, Judge Mushtak Parker, Judge Nana Makhubele. Two more judges, Tshifhiwa Maumela and Nomonde Mngqibisa are also facing possible suspension by the president for failing to deliver judgments on time. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Co-ordinator at Judges Mattter, Alison Tilley-
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo and Parliament's presiding officers Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Amos Masondo are expected to meet today at Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg over the next two days. The aim of the meeting is to smooth relations between the judiciary and parliament. The meeting comes after statements made by Zondo last week. He said he has not seen the implementation of the State Capture Commission's recommendations by parliament. Mapisa-Nqakula and Masondo requested the meeting after the lawmakers took exception to Zondo's comments. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter, Busi Chimombe.
The case against three accused in the Thabo Bester escape matter has been postponed to the 3rd of July in the Bloemfontein Magistrates court for bail information. The trio appeared briefly in court. Bester escaped from Mangaung Correctional centre in May last year. SABC reporter, Kamogelo Seekoei caught up with the Free State NPA spokesperson Phaladi Shuping and asked him why the case was postponed
panel of experts have agreed on a need to rethink approaches to tackling South Africa's stubbornly high unemployment. They further concurred about the disruptive nature of technology and the threat it poses to the labour market and therefore requires creativity in economic policy formulation. Some experts at the SA-TIED policy dialogue at the University of Pretoria, agitated for grant-based approaches to activate labour-market policies. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to senior policy specialist at Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ), Neil Coleman
Employment has dropped by 21-thousand in the formal non-agricultural sector in the first quarter of 2023. Stats SA has published its latest quarterly employment statistics bringing the level of employment to almost 10 million. The survey showed that 97-thousand jobs were lost between March 2022 and March 2023. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Director responsible for Quarterly Employment at Statistics South Africa, Mahlapane Masupye
The situation remains relatively calm in and around Diepkloof hostel in Soweto with traffic flowing normally along the Chris Hani road, which passes adjacent to the hostel. Police are stationed strategically along the route following clashes between protestsing locals and authorities on Monday morning. Residents are demanding proper, flushing toilets and electricity at the hostel. They have expressed concern that they are forced to share a few communal taps, as the hostel's structure continues to crumble around them. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Deputy Director for Media Relations at the City of Johannesburg, Nthatisi Modingoane.
The death toll from the Cholera outbreak has risen to 43, the national health department has confirmed. The departmental spokesperson Foster Mohale says Gauteng accounts for most of the deaths, with 35 people confirmed to have died from the water-borne disease. The country has recorded 1,045 suspected cases of cholera in 15 out of 52 districts across five provinces,197 of which were laboratory-confirmed. Gauteng accounts for most of the cases at 89% with 176 reported from three districts. Free State accounts for 6% with 11 of the cases, reported from one Fezile Dabi District, North West has recorded 5 cases, Limpopo four cases and one case in Mpumalanga. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Foster Mohale, the national spokesperson for health department
Police have clashed with some protesting Diepkloof residents in Soweto after tensions flared up as protesters pelted police with stones. officers retaliated by firing rubber bullets after some community members attacked an Sabc news vehicle. no injurie were reported. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABCNews reporter, Prabashini Moodley
The Congress of the People (Cope) has terminated the membership of its deputy president and one of its two MPs, Willie Madisha. Cope's secretary-general, Eric Mohlapamaswi, said the decision to axe Madisha and Mzwandile Nhleko, its secretary for elections, was taken at the party's national committee meeting on Sunday.He added the decision to remove Madisha and Nhleko was unanimous and taken in terms of article 25(3) (V) of the party's constitution. speculation is rife that COPE's national spokesperson Dennis Bloem could also be next on the chopping board as Bloem was served with the same letter served to Madisha and Hleko. However, he has asked for more time to Respond to the letter. He has also been asked not to respond to media queries on behalf of the party. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to COPE's secretary for elections, Mzwandile Hleko and Cope's secretary-general, Eric Mohlapamaswi.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy says it is currently too risky to dispatch a search team to ventilation Shaft 5 at the Virginia mine in Welkom, following information that 31 alleged illegal Basotho miners died at the shaft. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of the Kingdom of Lesotho has informed the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy that the incident took place on 18 May 2023 in a shaft that was last operational in the 1990s. Sakina Kamwendo spok to Director of Media Relations at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Enerst Mulibana.
Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo has called for the establishment of a permanent Commission to investigate any possible State Capture. Zondo lamented Parliament over its lack of implementation of the recommendations of the State Capture report. He delivered the keynote address at the colloquium hosted by the Human Sciences Research Council in Pretoria on the future of South Africa's democracy after the State Capture Commission. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in parliament, Lulama Matya.
Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande is currently meeting with University of Fort Hare stakeholders including the Vice Chancellor, the SRC, the executive management, as well as the institution's council following calls for him to address some of their grievances. The stakeholders have expressed concern over their exclusion from decision making in the university and have called for the appointment of an independent investigatitor into issues of academic fraud. Last week, Nzimande told parliament that his office was better placed to investigate the ongoing academic fraud allegations at the university. Sakina Kamwedo spoke to SABC Reporter, Sidima Mfeku
The Tshwane metro police department in Gauteng is appealing to motorists to record the names and details of its officers during interactions with them, following a string of harassment incidents. Recently two officers were questioned in Diepsloot for working outside their jurisdiction in a private car. The city has come under the spotlight following allegations that it employed more than 200 officers with criminal records during the first phase of in-sourcing in 2020. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tshwane metro police spokesperson, Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has lauded efforts made by African leaders in resolving the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. She was addressing the media in Pretoria following the recent Cabinet meeting. Ntshavheni says despite the challenges of diplomatic protocols with the Polish government it should noted that the African Peace Mission which took place last week was a first of its kind...
The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) has passed the Eskom Debt Relief Bill. This marks another step towards it becoming law. The Eskom Debt Relief Bill was originally introduced to the National Assembly in February this year; following public participation and multiple briefings throughout April, it made its way to the NCOP for the first time in May. EFF's Moletsane Moletsane rejected the bill and ANC's Zolani Mkiva welcomed Eskom's Debt Relief Bill. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliament reporter, Joseph Mosia
Eskom board member Dr Claudette von Eck has told the Parliament Standing Committee on Public Accounts that it is untrue that the board forced former CEO Andre de Ruyter to cut short his notice period after he spilled the beans on corruption but that he chose to leave when called to explain the utterances. This as Eskom 's Acting CEO Calib Cassim and members of the Eskom board are visited by Scopa as it has been visiting this morning to Eskom's headquarters Megawatt Park conducting a second leg of its oversight visit, as they started yesterday by visiting Tutuka power station in Mpumalanga, They continue today with their Gauteng oversight and hearings into former CEO Andre de Ruyter's graft allegations at the power utility. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Katlego Legodi
Motorists travelling along the N14 between Pretoria and Krugersdorp have been urged to exercise caution as protesting residents in Diepsloot have threatened to close down the highway. Residents took to the streets to voice out their concerns on various issues which include crime caused allegedly by poor police visibility. Residents also allege that undocumented foreign national are behind the vast majority of crime related incidents in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo.
The ANC has until the end of business today to hand over its complete cadre deployment committee records to the Democratic Alliance. This follows last week's judgment in the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg dismissing the ANC's bid to appeal an earlier ruling ordering it to hand over its records. The court found that there is no reasonable prospect of success in an appeal of the judgment ordering it to hand over its records within five days. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Canny Maphanga.
Action Society is coming up with a new approach to hold police responsible for the loss of life or any harm encountered by Gender-Based Violence victims. It argued there's always a recourse to sue as the victim had a restraining order against the perpetrator at the time of the tragedy, tSakina Kamwendo spoke to Action Society's Ian Cameroon
The National Council of Province's committee on Health is today being briefed by officials from the Department of Health on the National Health Insurance Bill. The bill was been passed by the National Assembly last week with the aim to provide universal healthcare to all South Africans, at both public or private health facilities. The NCOP will finish off its second term with oral question and answers from the Economics cluster, before joining members of Parliament from the National Assembly, to do work among their constituents. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington.
The much-anticipated start to the 11th South Africa AIDS conference that is set to take place at the Durban ICC has been marred with protests from various organisations which have gathered under the campaign, Love Picketing. Hundred from these health-based organisations are making their way through the streets of the Durban CBD with the intention to raise concerns over the quality of the country's health-care system together with raising concerns about the scourge of HIV/AIDS and teen pregnancy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Manager for Stakeholder Relations and Campaigns at the South African National Aids Council, Reverend Zwo Nevhutalu.
The case against a North West man who is charged with murdering his 70-year-old mother has been postponed to the 27th of June 2023 this comes as he made his second appearance at the Brits Magistrates Court earlier on Tuesday morning, The alleged drug dealer murdered his mother by slitting her throat while sleeping last week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phanuel Shuma.
The plane carrying journalists and security personnel that was supposed to accompany President Cyril Ramaphosa to Ukraine and Russia but was grounded in Warsaw, Poland has flown back home. Polish authorities refused over 120 South African presidential security guards and journalists permission to disembark from an aircraft for 26 hours. Reasons that Polish authorities gave for the decision include permits which were not in order and they were not informed about some of the people on board. South African Institute of International Affairs Senior Researcher, Gustavo de Carvalho says it is important to bare in mind which stage of the conflict is currently unfolding.
Tensions are brewing in the City of Tshwane as local residents clash with alleged illegal immigrants living in the area of Marabastad. Residents have threatened to embark on a week-long mass protest saying they have had enough of illegal immigrants operating businesses in their communities and dominating the local economy. Business owners in Marabastad have however vowed to fight back calling on immigration officials and the police to enforce the law. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to community activist and leader in Marabastad, Ellias Nakgwadi.
The City of Cape Town has expressed concern over the delays in some of its multi-million-rand infrastructure projects due to threats from extortionists demanding to have a piece of the construction pie. Projects in areas such as Khayelitsha, Delft and Brooklyn have seen contractors threatened and equipment stolen by the so-called construction mafia. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Cape Town's Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas.
The Northern Cape department of education has revealed that an average of 900 learners aged between 10 and 19 years old, fall pregnant each quarter. Majority of the pregnancies happen in the rural district of John Taolo Gaetsewe in Kuruman. The department says this is a concern as it affects learning and teaching. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisations says South Africa has one of the highest rates of teenage pregnancy globally, with nearly one in four girls falling pregnant before turning 20 years old. Local data by Statistics South Africa shows that over 90-thousand girls aged ten to 19 years gave birth from March 2021 to April 2022 in all nine provinces. The report further revealed that of the almost 34-thousand teenage pregnancies during 2020, 660 of those were girls under the age of 13 years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of LoveLife, Patrick Kulati.
A housing project in Inanda, eThekwini, which started in 2019, to the tune of R83 million has to date produced only one RDP house. According online publication Groundup the municipality blames bureaucratic delays, the Covid-19 pandemic, the July 2021 unrest, and the KZN floods for the delays in the unfinished housing project called The Namibia Stop 8 Housing Project. eThekwini Municipality spokesperson, Lindiwe Khuzwayo says the municipality would need about R43-million to complete the project. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ground up reporter Tsoanelo Sefolo
Power Utility, Eskom is clamping down on illegal connections in and around the city of Johannesburg. The utility is descending on on areas in the north of the city to conduct network audits and to remove illegal connections where communities have built shelters under the Eskom 88kV power lines. Sakina Spoke to SABC reporter, Horisane Sithole.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation,Godfrey Lebeya, is outlining and taking stock of the milestones achieved by the unit during the 4th quarter. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation is responsible for the combating, investigation and prevention of national priority crimes such as serious organized crime, serious commercial crime and serious corruption. He has been reading out some of the cases and their conclusions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Investigator at Open Secrets , Ra'eesa Pather
A housing project in Inanda, eThekwini, which started in 2019, to the tune of R83 million has to date produced only one RDP house. According online publication Groundup the municipality blames bureaucratic delays, the Covid-19 pandemic, the July 2021 unrest, and the KZN floods for the delays in the unfinished housing project called The Namibia Stop 8 Housing Project. eThekwini Municipality spokesperson, Lindiwe Khuzwayo says the municipality would need about R43-million to complete the project. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for eThekwini Municipality, Lindiwe Khuzwayo.
State-owned arms manufacturer, Denel is appearing before parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts today on a number of issues including the entity's liquidity status as well as investigations that have been conducted by the Special Investigating Unit. The board failed to appear before SCOPA last week forcing the meeting rescheduled to be postponed to today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary reporter, Lulama Matya.
There have been mixed reactions to the passing of the National Health Insurance Bill by the National Assembly. The Department of Health says it welcomes this while other stakeholders say there has to be drastic improvements in the health system first for the the NHI to work. Meanwhile, Solidarity says it is ready to challenge governemnt in court if it goes ahead with its NHI plans. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Research at Solidarity, Connie Mulder and Founder and Director of the Health Justice Initiative, Fatima Hassan.
Good Party Chief Whip, Brett Herron, says if the failed extradition of Rajesh and Atul Gupta is the result of sloppy legal preparations, action must be taken against those responsible. Herron was opening the debate in the National Assembly on government's failure to successfully extradite Rajesh and Atul Gupta from the United Arab Emirates. The brothers were to face corruption charges for their alleged role in state capture in South Africa. Mercedes Besent tells us more.
Suspended public protector, advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane is currently briefing the media on the allegations of bribery by some members of the section 194 inquiry looking into her fitness to hold office.it has been alleged that the late former minister, Tina Joemat-Pettersson acted as an intermediary in a plot to extort money from Mkhwebane's husband, David Skosana, in order to have her parliamentary inquiry halted. Her fellow ANC MPs, Pemmy Majodina and Qubudile Dyantyi, who chairs the Section 194 Inquiry on Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office, were also allegedly involved in the scheme .A criminal case has since been laid with the police by Skosana. Lets now take you live to the media briefing.
The Department of Employment and Labour will be embarking on an Employment Equity (EE) Workshop with all trade union federations following a call for all workplaces to review their Employment Equity Plans. The Department says the purpose of the workshop is to familiarise all trade union federations on their roles and responsibilities as members of the Employment Equity consultative forums; and to capacitate them in the implementation of the Employment Equity plans in the workplace to align with Employment Equity amendments. The Employment Equity Amendment Bill of 2020 has been met with mixed emotions, with some members of the coloured community in Johannesburg expressing concern over what they call government's neglect of unemployment in their communities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Director of Labour Relations at the Department of Employment and Labour, Thembinkosi Mkhaliphi...
A 31-year old Zimbabwean national is currently appearing before the Bloemfontein Magistrate's court in connection with the dramatic prison escape of murderer, Thabo Bester. He is the ninth suspect in the matter and is facing a charge of assisting an inmate to escape from lawful custody. It is alleged that he and 8 others helped Bester escape from Mangaung Correctional Centre last May. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Aphumelele Mdlalane..
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts will receive an update from the Presidency on the investigation reports submitted by the Special Investigating Unit. In attendance is the Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni a delegation from the Presidency and a delegation from the Special Investigation Unit in the form of Advocate Andy Mothibi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Parliament reporter, Lulama Matya.
Retired Judge Siraj Desai, the legal ombudsman of South Africa says the ombuds office has to protect and promote the public interest in the rendering of legal services as contemplated in the legal practice act . He was addressing the media on the status of his office and the very recent promulgation of the sections of the Legal Practice Act which deals with the appeals processes. The media briefing is also aimed at facilitating an open dialogue and provide the public with a comprehensive understanding of the censure against Judge Desai. Judge Desai was recently censured by the Judicial Conduct Committee following a complaint lodged by the SA Zionist Federation. This relates to Desai's outspoken support for Palestine and his criticism of Israel's alleged human rights violations. Here is a short clip of Judge Siraj Desai
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has been postponed to the 17th of July in the High Court in Pretoria. This is due to presiding Judge Tshifiwa Maumela not being well. The trial was set to resume today until Thursday, with state witness Zandile Khumalo expected back on the stand. Deputy Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba made the announcement and also indicated that arrangements will be made to ensure the trial continues ... Deputy Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba delivered the judgement and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Afriforum private prosecution, Advocate Gerrie Nel
The entrance to the Helen Joseph hospital in Johannesburg has been blocked by protesters. Motorists have been urged to avoid Perth road as it is also affecting traffic in Westdene and Wesbury. Residents are protesting over service delivery in the area. They have also raised concerns that coloured people are neglected by business and governemnt when it comes to employment opportunities. SABC's Aldrian Sampear spoke to Bishop Dalton Adams, who is leading the community protest
Electricity Minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has told SABC News that neighbouring Mozambique will immediately avail 100 megawatts of power to help address South Africa's electricity crisis. Speaking to SABC reporter, Liabo Setho on the sidelines of an official visit by Mozambique's Mineral Resources and Energy, Carlos Zacarias, Ramokgopa says more will be done to ensure cooperation between the two countries in addressing energy challenges.
Over 100 million Rand of pension money and outstanding salaries due to workers have allegedly vanished at Zebediela Bricks company, outside Lebowakgomo in Limpopo. This is according to workers, who have not received salaries for months. Five hundred current and former workers allege that the company owner disappeared with the money, after the company was liquidated in January this year. The company was placed in final liquidation through a Gauteng High Court order. Mahlatse Phaladi reports...
The Active African Christians United Movement is taking legal action against government for all the people affected by cholera in Hammanskraal, this includes bereaved families.Over twenty people have died since the outbreak. Advocate Moafrika Wa Maila from Active Christians United Movement, earlier spoke to our repoter Molemo Waone Motheo about their class action law suit againt the government.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is visiting Hamanskraal following the cholera oubreak. He is accompanied by government officials including Minister of water and sanitation Senzo Mchunu, minister of Health Joe Phaahla and Premier of Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi. The outbreak of Cholera in the community of Hammanskraal has caused devastation and government is instituting mitigating measures to contain the spread of Cholera. President began by stopping over at the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment plant and will lead a delegation of government leaders to a community meeting in Hammanskraal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Busi Shimombe joins us on the line
The Minister of Finance has determined that Eskom will not be granted a partial exemption from section 55(2)(b)(i) of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) requiring it to disclose irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure and material losses from criminal conduct in its annual financial statements. This is after government reversed the initial decision in April this year, that granted Eskom partial exemption following a public outcry. All government institutions are required by law to report irregular as well as fruitless and wasteful expenditure in their annual report and annual financial statements. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Sandile Swana
The Special Investigating Unit has confirmed to parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts that the agency has obtained the more than 1000-page-long so-called intelligence report which allegedly implicates high-ranking politicians in alleged criminal cartels operating at Eskom. During his presentation earlier today, Head of the Special Investigating Unit , Advocate Lekgoa Mothibi told SCOPA that the unit is currently going through the report and would take the appropriate action in due course.
Two suspects have been arrested in Msogwaba near Mbombela after a minor was allegedly raped by her step father. The victim's step father as well as her biological mother who reportedly assisted the perpetrator commit this crime were arrested in their home. Police were made aware of the incident after the victim escaped from her home for safety and disclosed her ordeal to a community member. Today the suspects are appearing before Kabhokweni Magistrates Court near White River. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Motsebi Monareng
The International Monetary Fund has raised the red flag on the country's economic growth prospects despite Stats SA's announcement of a marginal economic growth of 0.4 percent in the first quarter . The IMF warns the country faces mounting and social challenges as government's finances are likely to get worse in the medium term due to ongoing challenges at Eskom, lower tax revenue and higher borrowing costs amongst many other issues. IMF representative in South Africa, Max Alier now joins us on the line for further details...
Twelve University of Fort Hare students have been arrested for allegedly torching and damaging university property. The University launched an investigation after a sports centre was set alight last night at Alice campus. It is alleged that the incident was triggered by some of the students" dissatisfaction over what they said was a congested exam time table. Meanwhile, the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape has confirmed that mid-year exams scheduled for this afternoon will continue as planned despite the fire incident at one of its exam venues at Alice campus. University spokesperson JP Roodt tells our colleague Sidima Mfeku that student bodies were consulted ahead of the exams.
Two learners killed and several others injured when a bus transporting learners veered off the road and hit a disused building out east of Polokwane in Limpopo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Koketšo Motau!
Dr Nandipha Magudumana has lost her bid to have the court declare her arrest in Tanzania illegal. Free State High Court Judge, Phillip Loubster dismissed the application with costs. In his judgement he stated that Magudumana was clearly aware of the charges she would face, during the handover process between the Tanzania government and South Africa, upon her arrival in the country. The judge has also made it clear that if Dr Nandipha Magudumana has a problem with the decison by Tanzanian officials to deport her , she must take it up with Tanzania and the Free State High Court has no jurisdiction to decide on such issues. Here is Free State High Court Judge, Phillip Loubster reading the judgement
The National Department of Health is concerned about the rise of flu cases across the country since the beginning of May. The department was notified by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) of the increasing circulation of influenza around the country.Provinces such as Kwazulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and North West have seen an increase in case. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the National department of health, Foster Mohale.
Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, has welcomed the Free State High Court's judgement, dismissing Dr Nandipha Magudumana's urgent application with costs. Magudumana wanted the court to declare her arrest, in Tanzania, illegal. She is among the seven people arrested for aiding and abetting murder and rape convict, Thabo Bester, to escape from prison. Motsoaledi says Magudumana's release would have been an injustice.
Family, friends and associates of the late columnist and analyst, Eusebius McKaiser, say they are deeply saddened and shocked at his sudden passing. In the small town of Makhanda in the Eastern Cape, where McKaiser spent his formative years, he is hailed as a hero because he championed the rights of underprivileged girls through his campaigns for free access to sanitary towels. Anda Nqonji has more.
Over 35 organisations are expected to converge at the Union Buildings, to protest against undocumented and illegal foreign nationals. The organisations are saying that South Africa is facing a myriad of challenges such as crime and many social ills, and that foreign nationals are worsening the situation. Tshwane Metro Police have warned that several roads leading to the country's Capital may be affected. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, sashin Naidoo...
A group of scholar transport drivers gathered outside the Mitcell's Plain Magistrate's Court, on the Cape Flats, have apologised for the tragic crash that resulted in the deaths of five primary schools children.The children were flung from a Bakkie in which they were being transported to school. It's alleged the driver lost control of the vehicle, after which it overturned. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli
All eyes will be on former ANC Secretary-General, Ace Magashule for the next couple of days following his guilty verdict by the party's National Disciplinary Committee. His successor, Fikile Mbalula announced on Wednesday that Magashule was found guilty of misconduct and faces possible expulsion. He has been given seven days to explains why the party should not do so. Magashule was charged of unilaterally suspending party president, Cyril Ramaphosa and subsequently refused to apologised to him and structures of the party. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Samkele Maseko.
Former African National Congress Secretary General, Ace Magashule has been found guilty of misconduct by the party's National Disciplinary Committee after he failed to apologise to party president Cyril Ramaphosa and the party's structures, for unilaterally suspending Ramaphosa in 2021. In announcing the committee's decision, the ANC's current Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula said Magashule has 7 days to justify why he should not be expelled from the party....
The Auditor-General, Tsakani Maluleke says a lack of adequate skills within local municipalities continues to negatively hamper the financial standing of such institutions. Maluleke is currently engaging with members of the Standing Committee on the Auditor General in parliament on Local Government Outcomes. Poor financial planning and inadequate financial controls have been identified as the leading causes of the bad financial state on many municipalities across the country. Maluleke explains...
Health Minister Joe Phaahla says laboratory-confirmed cholera cases are spread over three provinces, Limpopo, the Free State and Gauteng, with Gauteng being the epicentre of the outbreak. Phaahla together with officials from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) provided an update on the country's outbreak, which started in February. Phaahla says there's been no new cases in the past seven days...
The SABC is currently appearing before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) to presents its annual report and financial statements for the financial year 2021/22. The committee is hearing the progress made by the SABC on investigations, issues of irregular expenditure and financial accountability. Member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Bheki Hadebe, says for the past 5 years the organisation has been failing to deal with the issue of irregular expenditure. He asked what progress has been made and is the organistaion satisfied that in the next financial year it will be able to disclose all instances of irregular expenditures. The SABC's Chief Financial Officer, Yolande van Biljon has been answering questions from members of SCOPA
Contact crimes against women in the fourth quarter saw an increase. The figures show that attempted murder is at 21.5 % , murder at 7,9 % and assault with the intent to inflict grevious bodily harm stands at 0,7 %. Police Minister Bheki Cele earlier briefed the Portfolio Committee on Police in Parliament on the 4th quarter crime statistics. Minister Cele addressed the media on the overall crime stats and measures taken by the police Ministry to combat crime. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC parliamentary correspondent, Zalene Merrington.
Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy is expected to receive an update from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy on the latest shale gas developments. The possible extraction of gas from the Karoo could be a game changer in so far as the country's energy crisis is concerned. Large reserves of shale gas have been identified in the Karoo basin, which alone could provide up to 4% of additional electricity requirements with no need for pipelines. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Executive Officer of the South African upstream oil and gas regulatory authority, Petroleum Agency South Africa (PASA), Dr. Phindile Masangane
The Gauteng Department of Education says it will look into providing scholar transport to learners attending its compulsory extra lessons. This comes after 17-year-old Grade 12 learner, Palesa Malatji was brutally raped and murdered as she made her way home following an extra lesson. The Congress of South African Students (COSAS) has called for the department to deploy school patrollers to keep learners safe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane
A North West family is one step closer to finding closure as the provincial Department of Health has begun exhuming eleven the graves of unidentified persons at the Boikhutso Township Cemetery near Lichtenburg. The family hopes that one of the remains in the graves will be that of their loved one, a male patient who went missing at the Thusong Hospital a number of years ago and was allegedly later found burned beyond recognition. Initial DNA tests were done were done on the burnt body but the results were inconclusive, following which, the body was buried with ten other unidentified people at the cemetery. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sentleeng Lehihi.
The EFF in Tshwane has gathered outside the Themba Police Station in Hammanskraal ahead of opening criminals cases against the City of Tshwane. The party says this is in response to the 17 deaths of people as a result of the Cholera outbreak. A further 34 people are still being treated for Cholera symptoms at the Jubilee District Hospital. Yesterday, the EFF dared Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink together with Tshwane speaker Mncedi Ndwanana to drink water apparently taken from the taps in Hammanskraal. EFF chairperson in Tshwane, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to professor of Law and the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management and Law at the University of Limpopo, Professor Omphemetse Sibanda.
Former Gauteng Premier, David Makhura has told the Life Esidimeni Inquest that he was furious when he learned of the deaths of the first 36 patients to die after being removed from the health department's care. Makhura earlier refuted allegations that the Premier's budget committee took a decision to terminate the Life Esidimeni contact, a move that resulted in the deaths of 144 mental health patients. Former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu earlier testified that the decision to terminate the contract was made by Makhura's budget committee. Makhura says he called Mahlunga into a meeting as soon as he heard the news of the initial deaths...
Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts has resolved to call on presidency including the Auditor General to account before it for the ongoing challenges at the Power Utility, Eskom. Committee chairperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa says the former Eskom CEO, Andre De Ruyter will also need to come back to the committee for further clarity on some of the issues. This as the committee continues with its work to get to the bottom of the allegations made by De Ruyter of wide-spread corruption, fraud, sabotage and criminals cartels operating as the power utility. Hlengwa explains
The ANC has weighed in on the humanitarian crises plaguing Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria. This as the number of people that have died due to a Cholera outbreak has now risen to seventeen. Party national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri says both the ANC and the current administration of the Tshwane metro under the DA-led coalition should account for the current crisis of the lack of clean water in the area. The Tshwane has still yet to trace the Cholera outbreak as it continues to provide water tanks and conducts further tracing tests. ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri...
The South African Human Rights Commission has also visited Hammanskraal noting with grave concern the Cholera outbreak. This as the number of people that have died due to a Cholera outbreak has now risen to seventeen. Party national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri says both the ANC and the current administration of the Tshwane metro under the DA-led coalition should account for the current crisis of the lack of clean water in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the South African Human Rights Commission's acting Provincial Manager, Zama Mbeki.
The cross examination of former Gauteng Finance MEC, Barbara Creecy is currently underway at the Pretoria High Court. Creecy, who is now the current Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister was ordered to appear before the Life Esidimeni Inquest as she was implicated by former health MEC Qedani Mahlangu. Mahlangu had testified that Creecy, was part of a collective under the former Gauteng Premier, David Makhura's Budget Committee meeting, which had decided to relocate over three-thousand mentally-ill patients in order to cut costs. 144 people lost their lives in this exercise which took place back in 2016. Here is a snippet of how Mahlangu's counsel, Laurance Hodes engaged Creecy during her cross examination...
The South African Council of Churches in the O R Tambo region have raised concerns and warn members of African religion to refrain from instigating violence between followers of christianity and African religion. This comes after a circulating videos on the social media where alleged members of the African religion are burning the Holy Bible , referring to it as a devil's book. SACC believes that every religion should preach peace, unity and avoid any form of instigation as it may cause instability within communities. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to provincial president of SACC Eastern Cape, Lulama Ntshingwa.
A report by the Commission For The Promotion And Protection Of The Rights Of Cultural, Religious And Linguistic Communities has found that while most government departments have adopted two or three official languages as per the language act, English is still predominantly used. The dominance of the English language has come at the expense of other official languages. The report also found that the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Recreation; and the Department of Basic Education are the only two departments that have Monitoring and Reporting Systems on Use of Official Language. The commission recently randomly picked and invited 16 organs of state to share with it what they are doing to promote and equitable use of all official languages. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Commission Chairperson, Professor Luka David Msoma
South African health experts say cholera is a global concern and there have been several outbreaks in various regions of the world since 2021. Anelisa Cele from Port & Environmental Health says they are keeping an eye on people travelling into the country to flag anyone who may be showing cholera symptoms.
Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan has not minced his words when describing the conduct of former CEO, Andre De Ruyter while the former was head of the Power Utility. Minister Gordhan is appearing before parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts, following damning allegation by De Ruyter about some of the challenges plaguing Eskom. Gordhan has described De Ruyter's assertions as nothing new adding that De Ruyter's showed poor accountability and what he describes as narcissistic behaviour...
Media lawyer Dan Rosengarten says if the witness feared for her life, her application would make sense , but there is zero evidence to suggest this. This follows an application by the witness on Monday, objecting to the live broadcast of her testimony in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial . Meanwhile , the prosecutor, Advocate George Baloyi, says the new witness must be given a choice whether or not she wants her testimony to be broadcast live or not. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Horisani Sithole.
The lawyers representing President Cyril Ramaphosa in his challenge of the private prosecution against him by former President Jacob Zuma have argued that his office will suffer undue interference should he be hauled before a criminal court. Ramaphosa is asking the full bench in the Johannesburg High Court to declare the summons issued by Zuma as unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid. Zuma is accusing his successor of being an alleged accomplice in the alleged leak of his health records by state prosecutor, Advocate Billy Downer. Advocate Ngwako Maenetjie says the legal bid by the former head of state will have an impact on the confidence entrusted to the office of the President...
Two victims have succumbed to their injuries after they initially survived an attack where 15 people were set alight inside a house in Msunduzi Location in Pietermaritzburg. This brings the death toll in this gruesome attack to ten people. Its alleged seven suspects armed with rifles entered the house on Sunday enquiring about the owner of the house. Upon not finding the owner, they told the occupants to undress before pouring a liquid over them and setting them alight. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Khalesakhe Mbense.
Authorities in Lesotho have declared an indefinite nationwide curfew which begins from 10pm in the evening to 4am in the early morning. This is in response to increasing crime rates in the country and follows the fatal shooting of a popular radio presenter and journalist. Local residents opposed to the measure are anticipated to stage protests with police likely to move to forcibly disperse any gatherings that may materialised. SABC correspondent in lESOTHO, Rapeleng Radebe...
Thabo Bester, his partner Dr Nandipha Magudumana, Magudumana's father and five other accused have appeared before the Bloemfontein Magistrates court. Thabo Bester and Dr Magudumana appeared virtually. Besters legal representatives have opposed this and made arguments for Bester to appear in person. The case against Thabo Bester and Dr Nandipha Magudumana has been postponed to the 20th of June.
Former Kaizer Chiefs Public Relations Officer, Louis Tshakoane has reportedly been arrested at the funeral of former Mamelodi Sundowns administrator, Alex Shakoane. Shakoane died last week at the age of 68 after serving the football fretenity for over 50 years. Authorities pounced on Tshakoane on Tuesday after he went on the run four years ago when he was linked to a multimillion rand fraud scheme. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Sports reporter, Sifiso Ramara.
EFF leader, Julius Malema is addressing the media following the party's Central Command Team meeting. Speaking from the party headquarters in Johannesburg, Malema says it all system's go for the party's 10th borthday celebrations set for July the 29th at FNB stadium. Malema has called for the immediate resignation of president Cyril Ramaphosa warning that the country faces a real threat of a total collapse of the electricity grid. Malema also weighed in on the diplomatic impasse between the USA and the South African government.
A new state witness in the murder trial of former Bafana Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa, is objecting to proceedings being broadcast live audio and visually. The witness says she is a well-known personality and performs in public from time to time. She says the live broadcast, the public might form perceptions regarding her evidence and that when she perform publicly her life might be endangered. Let's take you live to the court proceedings
The murder trial of the late former ANC Youth League secretary general, Sindiso Magaqa is continuing with the cross examination of his bodyguard at the Pietermaritzburg High Court. Last week, Thakabonwa Ngubane testified that he had worked as a bodyguard for Magaqa for just over two months before the attack. The four accused - Sbonelo Myeza, Mbulelo Mpofana, Mlungisi Ncalane and Sibusiso Ncengwa - have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and the illegal possession of firearms. Sakina Kamwendo spoke SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu...
The African Independent National congress in North West has handed over a memorandum of grievances to the Orkeney police station about lack of police action in dealing with alleged rape cases. The party claims to have brought to light the allegations that an ANC ward councillor in the Matlosana local municipality in North West has been asking for sexual favours in exchange for help. The councillor has since been suspended, following his arrest in connection with two counts of statutory rape. A video of the councillor having sex with a young boy has been circulating on social media platforms. The parents of two 15-year-old boys opened the cases against the man over the weekend . Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Tebogo Phakedi
Defense lawyer Sipho Ramosepele has disputed Mthokozisi Thwala's testimony that there were two intruders the night Senzo Meyiwa was shot and killed. Thwala is under cross examination at the Meyiwa murder trial in the High Court in Pretoria. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC our reporter Pearl Magubane
Former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu is continuing with her cross examination in the High Court in Pretoria. On Friday Mahlangu told the court that the decision to relocate over three thousand mental health patients from Life Esidimeni facilities was taken jointly with the provincial management and that she had to comply with it. In continuing her testimony this morning, Mhalngu denied allegations by suspended Gauteng health department head (HOD) Dr Barney Selebano that she called a meeting to discuss a 2015 litigation matter..
The court application brought by the mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay metro, Retief Odendaal, to stop a special council meeting from sitting today has been withdrawn. The withdrawal comes after the council meeting was cancelled. A motion of no confidence was set to be debated against Odendaal at the meeting. He challenged the validity of the meeting saying due process in calling it was not followed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Gqeberha, Mcebisi Ngqina..
The African National Congress in Gauteng has thrown its weight in behind Al Jama-ah's Kabelo Gwamanda as its prefered candidate for the position of Johannesburg Mayor. Gwamanda will face off against the Democratic Alliance's Mpho Phalatse and ActionSA's Funzi Ngubeni. Council members are expected to finally elect a moyor after Al Jama-ah's Thapelo Amad resigned last month, in a bed to avoid a motion of no-confidence against him. On Tuesday, plans to elect a Mayor collapsed after different political parties requested several caucus breaks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole.
The High Court in Pretoria has postponed to Monday the case against five men accused of murdering soccer star, Senzo Meyiwa. Proceedings adjourned after Sipho Ramosepele, the lawyer representing accused number 1 and 2 fell ill in court. State Witness, Mthokozisi Thwala earlier told the court that the first person to react when the intruders came into the house where Meyiwa was gunned down, was Longwe Twala. Mthokozisi Thwala is the second witness who was present at the home of Kelly Khumalo's mother in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, when Meyiwa was shot and killed in 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane
Former ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule has appeared before the Bloemfontein High Court on the 255 million rands fraud and corruption Asbestos case. The case against Magashule and co-accused has been postponed to the 15th of April 2024. Magashule, business man Edwin Sodi and former human settlements head Thabani Zulu maintain that their right to a fair trial has been infringed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Abongile Dumako.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions says while it welcomes National Treasury's new Eskom debt relief measures for 165 municipalities, more measures need to be put in place to ensure that residents pay for electricity. The programme will result in the bail out of over half of the country's municipalities if the commit to dealing with residents who refuse to pay for services like electricity and installing smart meters, among other conditions. Collectively, the country's 257 municipalities owe Eskom over R56-billion. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu parliamentary co-cordinator, Matthew Parks.
Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has resumed at the High court in Pretoria. One of the witnesses in the Senzo Meyiwa murder case is expected to be back in court. Mthokozisi Thwala is the second state witness in the trial for the murder of the soccer star. He was inside the house when Meyiwa was shot and killed at the home of singer Kelly Khumalo in Vosloorus, south-east of Johannesburg, in October 2014. Five men are accused of involvement in Meyiwa's murder. Sakina Kamwendo spoke SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane
The state continues leading new evidence from a new witness in the Sindiso Magaqa murder trial in the High Court in Pietermaritzburg. The state has lined up over 50 witnesses. The first key witness, Jabulile Msiya - earlier this week told the court that after the attack on Magaqa she feared for her life. Msiya maintained Magaqa's attack was related to the uMzimkhulu Memorial Hall renovations, which they suspected involved fraud and corruption. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu.
The gunshot detection technology seems to be working well for the city of Cape Town since the system went live 5 months ago. The system is helping law enforcement to arrest criminals discharging guns in a public space. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to JP Smith , the City of Cape Town's mayoral committee member for safety and security
The Bloemfontein Magistrates Court has postponed to May 11 and 12, the bail application of the celebrity doctor, Dr Nandipha Magudumana and 5 others accused of assisting convicted murderer, Thabo Bester when he escaped from prison last May. Earlier, the court adjourned to allow for consultations
Delivery of food to some KwaZulu-Natal schools as part of the National School Nutrition Programme, has commenced. This after a failure to deliver food to some of the schools in the programme since the start of the second term . About 5-thousand schools have been affected, leaving many learners starving at schools. Pacina Retail, a company contracted to supply food in schools in the whole province, has been accused of not delivering. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
Voting for the new City of Johannesburg mayor may not materialise today as parties continue to struggle to reach agreement. Councillors are expected to elect a mayor after former executive mayor of the City, Thapelo Ahmad resigned last week. Ahmad was facing a no confidence motion. The coalition partners that voted Amad in power, have vowed to protect the speaker of council and the chief whip. They say the coalition remains intact and strong in spite of the resignation and unhappiness expressed by Patriotic Alliance President Gayton Mackenzie. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Horisani Sithole
The Department of Correctional Services says it has decided to terminate its contract with the Bloemfontein Correctional Center. The centre is contracted to operate the controversial Mangaung Correctional Centre, from which convicted rapist and murderer, rapist Thabo Bester escape last May. Bester was serving a life sentence when he staged his own suicide and walked out of the facility, allegedly assisted by employees from the facility. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Department of Correctional Services Spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo.
ANC President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has emphasized a number of issues being faced by society - including poverty, unemployment and inequality. COSATU's national May Day celebration is underway at the Bethlehem Showgrounds in the Free State. Ramaphosa has called for unity among members of the tripartite alliance...
It has been four years since the families of three miners trapped underground Lily Mine, near Barberton in Mpumalanga, set up a camping site on the periphery of the mine. The three workers Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi and Solomon Nyerenda were working in a container used as lamp room, when it fell down a sinkhole at the mine in 2016. The three are yet to be retrieved and as the country will be celebrates the May day, the families of the three are once again pleading with government to find their loved ones. SABC News reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng has more.
Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi says government will soon implement legislations that deal employers who keep breaking the law by hiring foreigners. Nxesi was speaking to our colleagues Aldrin Sampear and Naledi Moleo amid threats of protests by truck driver protest who are calling for government to address unfavourable recruitment processes in the sector.
Accused number 2 in the Senzo Meyiwa murder case has been denied bail by the high Court in Pretoria. Bongani Ntanzi is one of five men accused of killing the soccer star and Bafana Bafana captain in 2014. Ntanzi applied for bail last year. While handing down judgement, Deputy Judge President, Aubrey Ledwaba said that Ntanzi has failed to convince the court that it was in the interest of justice that he be granted bail. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole.
The families of the two boys who were found murdered and mutilated in Soweto has called on the deceased to fight for justice from the grave. This emerged during he boys funeral service underway at the Jabavu stadium in Soweto. Six-year-old Tshiamo Rabanyane and 5-year-old Nqobizitha Zulu went missing last Wednesday and their mutilated bodies were discovered the next day. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has honored South Africans and eminent foreign nationals who have done exceptionally well in supporting democracy, nation-building and inspiring the country. Ramaphosa says those honoured have contributed to the freedoms we enjoy today. He bestowed the order of Mendi for bravery, the order of Ikamanga, order of the Baobab, the order of Luthuli , the order of Mapungubwe and the order of the companions of O.R. Tambo to deserving recipients at the National Orders conferment at the Union buildings in Pretoria.
As South Africa marks the 29th anniversary of the first democratic elections, shack dwellers movement Abahlali baseMjondolo has vowed to continue with its "Unfreedom Day" marches in parts of the country. The movement's leadership has accused the ruling African National Congress of lying to and insulting the intelligence and humanity impoverished communities by claiming that everyone who lives in the country is free. The "Unfreedom Day" marches began in Durban on Wednesday and are expected to spread to other parts of the country by Saturday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Abahlali baseMjondolo president, Sbusiso Zikode
Harry Belafonte's passing on the eve of Freedom Day serves as a poignant reminder of his contribution to the international cultural boycott of South Africa during the apartheid years. That was among the key reflections from President Cyril Ramaphosa at the news of the nonagenarian passing from congestive heart failure at his Manhattan home in New York. And as Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports, beyond his music and acting career, he spent his life fighting injustice while funding initiatives towards civil rights in the United States and the fight against Apartheid among others.
The lawyers representating shareholders at platinum group metals and chrome producer, Eastern Platinum Limited have written to the company's CEO, board of directors and its parent company, Barplats Mines, demanding the immediate halting of transactions for chrome ore to be sold at a reduced price to buyers. The lawyers say the transanctions are being carried out without the authorisation of the Board of Eastern Platinum. The shareholders say the unauthorised transactions have already resulted on 100-thousand tons of chrome concentrates being sold at a price of R1 914,37 ($105.11) per dry metric ton when the market related price is in fact approximately R3 880,11 ($213.00) per dry metric ton. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the lawyer representing the shareholders at Eastern Platinum Limited, Ulrich Roux.
Parliament's Standing Committee of Public Accounts has resolved to summons former Eskom Group Chief Executive Andre De Ruyter to appear before it to give further information. This follows De Ruyter's refusal to disclose the name of the minister who allegedly told him to let some people eat a little. De Ruyter stated unwillingness to jeopardise ongoing investigations and fear for his own security as some of the reasons for this. He was appearing before parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts which wanted him to elaborate on his comments in a TV interview about criminal networks working at Eskom. Sakina Spoke to SABC reporter, Joseph Mosia
Former Eskom Chief Executive Officer, André de Ruyter has continue to face pressure from members of Parliament's Standing Committee of Public Accounts, as he refused to reveal the name of the senior politician he has accused of engaging in criminality at the power utility. A number of MPs have asked de Ruyter over and over again why is did not make statements to authorities after he claimed to have alerted them about criminality at Eskom. During an interview with journalist, Annika Larson earlier this year, de Ruyter made allegations of maladministration, corruption and the sabotage of infrastructure allegedly involving a senior politician. Chairperson of the committee, Mkhuleko Hlengwa pressed him to tell Parliament the name of the politician.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently hosting his Finnish counterpart, Sauli Väinämö Niinistö at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Trade and investment, renewable energy and information technology are expected to dominate their talks between the two countries.The visit was initially planned for 2020, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two countries enjoy strong bilateral relations after Finland supported liberation movements in southern Africa. Let us take a listen to President, Sauli Väinämö Niinistö
The South African Social Security Agency is assuring social grant beneficiaries to not to panic as they will be paid. Most of their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)/Postbank gold cards are expiring at the end of April and delays at post offices appear to be causing anxiety among recipients. Last month SASSA advised beneficiaries whose cards have expired or are expiring soon, to visit their closest post office to collect a new card. However, not all of the post offices are able to offer card exchange services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi
Nelson Mandela Bay has been hit by lockouts and blackouts since Friday after workers vowed to shut down the city to protest against the suspension of their colleagues. Seven officials in Nelson Mandela Bay's electricity department were suspended in the metro's electricity department for what has been described as the biggest corruption scheme in the history of the administration. The Hawks and Special Investigation Unit are investigating the matter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mayoral committee member for electricity and infrastructure, Lance Grootboom
The International Relations Department says its plans are in place to evacuate South Africans who are stuck in Sudan. South Africa is among the many countries that are racing against time to evacuate their citizens from Sudan. It has put the number of verified South Africans stuck in the country at 77. The sudden eruption of violence between the military and the well-armed Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group earlier this month has triggered a humanitarian crisis. Four-hundred-and-20 people have been killed and millions others left without access to basic services and trapped in their homes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to founder and chair of the Gift of the Givers Foundation Imtiaz Sooliman.
The family of a 32-year-old man whose body was burned in the prison cell of rapist and murderer, Thabo Bester is expected to identify his remains today. Katlego Bereng was used as a decoy when Bester escaped from the Mangaung Correctional Centre in Bloemfontein, in a staged suicide in May last year: Police confirmed his identity after DNA tests revealed a direct match with his mother Monica Matsie from Bloemfontein. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Makgala Masiteng.
A group of asylum seekers, mainly comprising women and school-going children, who sought refuge at the United Nations Head Offices in Brooklyn almost five years ago, are now pleading with the South African authorities to facilitate their deportation to their respective countries of origin. The City of Tshwane and Home Affairs are expected to relocate the asylum seekers camped in the City in makeshift shelters to Lindela repatriation center. This follow a High Court judgment earlier this month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Attorney at Lawyers for Human Rights, Deborah Raduba.
It still remains unclear how German Authorities will proceed in getting former Steinhoff CEO, Markus Jooste to trial following his no-show at a German court yesterday. Jooste was scheduled to appear before a German court for contravening foreign exchange regulations that saw investors losing more than 200-Billion rands. A warrant of arrest was issued against him after his lawyers indicated Jooste could not travel to Germany as his passport was withheld by South African authorities.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Fin24 journalist, Jan Cronje.
The Department of Basic Education has been briefing the oversight committee on Basic Education in parliament on Learner Drop-Outs in the System. Earlier this year , while addressing the 8th annual Basic Education Sector Lekgotla, President Cyril Ramaphosa raised concerns over the high number of pupils who drop out of school and urged the sector to redouble efforts to address the crisis. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in Parliament, Joseph Mosia
Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi has shed more light on the costs involved in deporting back to the country convicted rapist and murder Thabo Bester together with her alleged accomplice, Dr Nandipha Magudumana. Motsoaledi says a total of 14 people were involved in ensuring the safe return of the pair totalling a cost of one-point-four million rand in hiring a charter flight. Motsoaledi has been briefing Parliament's Home Affairs Portfolio Committee on the Bester scandal. Minister Motsoaledi also highlights the process of extradition which was followed in returning the fugitives.
Long-haul bus company Intercape is taking legal action Police Minister Bheki Cele for failing to implement a safety plan to prevent its buses from being attacked. The bus company says since it opened its first case on March 4, 2020, not a suspect arrested has been or prosecuted. It says a further 164 more criminal cases were opened still no response. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Intercape CEO, Johann Ferreira.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially appointed the new SABC Board. In a statement released by the Presidency this morning, the president approved 12 names including former SABC head of News, Phathiswa Magopeni and former SABC journalist, Mpho Tsedu. Former National Youth Development Agency CEO, Khathutshelo Ramukumba has been appointed as Chairperson of the board. This past weekend marked exactly six months since the public broadcaster was without a sitting board with delays resulting from President Ramaphosa's questioning the inclusion of three candidate names recommended by parliament. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Director at Media Monitoring Africa, William Bird
Tshwane Executive Mayor, Cilliers Brink has painted a bleak picture of the metro's financial state. This comes after the work that has been done to put together the adjustment budget and the draft budget for the upcoming 2023/24 financial year. Brink briefed the media earlier today where he noted that the city's expenses exceed its income. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mayor of Tshwane Cilliers Brink...
The fraud and corruption trial of former president Jacob Zuma and French arms company, Thales has been adjourned to August 15th by the Pietermaritzburg High Court. The trial has again been postponed for arguments related to Zuma's application to have lead prosecutor Billy Downer removed from the matter. Addressing the court, State prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer told the court that the State had only received a full application with regards to his removal on Sunday and that the State was not yet ready to respond... Here is what Judge Nkosinathi Chili had to say in court today.
The state has dropped charges of murder and arson against 65-year-old Zolile Sekeleni who is a father of Dr Nandipha Magudumana. The state has indicated that after investigations there is no evidence linking Sekeleni to those charges. He is expected to be back in court on the 16th of May. His 3 co-accused, including his daughter Dr Nandipha Magudumana, IT expert Teboho Lipholo and dismissed G4S employee Senohe Matsoara will be back in court on May 3 and 4 for bail application. Take a listen to what transpired in court today.
Convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester's girlfriend Dr Nandipha Magudumana will remain in custody while her father Zolile Sekeleni has been released on ten- thousand rand bail. The state says it will object bail for Magudumana and her two co-accused former G4s employee Senohe Matsoara and Teboho Lipholo. The case has been postponed to third and forth of May for bail application. In today's court appearance the prosecution requested that Magudumana remove her face mask and reveal her face to allow her to be properly identified by the court which she did. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Aphumelele Mdlalane.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester did not register any identification with the department. Bester and his girlfriend, Dr Nandipha Magudumana were arrested in Tanzania last week and found with multiple passports. Both Bester and Magudumana have since appeared in court on different dates. Addressing the media in Pretoria, Dr Motsoaledi says intensive investigations are underway to determine how the pair managed to get the passports.
The case against convicted murderer and rapist, Thabo Bester has been postponed to May 16. He has been remanded in custody. He has abandoned bail but has indicated that he reserves his right to apply for it at an appropriate time. Bester's legal team addressed members of the media
The case against convicted murderer and rapist Thabo Bester has been postponed to the 16th of May in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court. He is facing a string of charges including escaping from lawful custody, defeating the ends of justice, violation of a dead body and fraud. Bester, together with his girlfriend Dr Nandipha Magudumana returned to South Africa yesterday morning, after their arrest in Arusha, Tanzania, last Friday. Bester escaped from the Mangaung Correctional Centre in the Free State, in May last year.
The High Court in Pretoria is currently hearing arguments challenging the Home Affairs Department's decision to terminate the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit. The Helen Suzman Foundation, Zimbabwean Immigration Federation, African Amity and 29 others are challenging the decision in court and seek to have the termination of the permits declared unlawful. Over 178,000 permit holders, currently lawful residents in South Africa face an uncertain future. Steven Budlender SC, for the Heleln Suzman Foundation earlier argued that Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi decided the fate of the ZEP programme without prior notice to or consultaion with ZEP holders and the public
The Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court has postponed to the 17th of April 2023, a case against 39-year-old former security company G4S employee and the 65-year-old father of Dr Nandipha Magudumana. Cornelius SekelenI and Senohe Matsoara are charged with aiding and abetting a convicted prisoner to escape from lawful custody.
Limpho Hani, the widow of late SACP general-secretary, Chris Hani has called on the ANC-led government to start paying attention to South Africans who are living in abject poverty, as the cost of living escalates. She was speaking at the 30th anniversary commemoration of her husband's death at Thomas Memorial Park in Ekurhuleni. Hani was killed by a Polish immigrant Janus Walusz on this day in 1993. Walusz failed to get parole on four occasions. However, the Constitutional Court later ordered that he be released on parole in December last year. Hani's widow says it is wrong to promise people basic services that cannot be delivered.
Here is the most bizarre true story. He felt a weird cool sensation, up his hip area thinking it's a bottle that might have not closed properly and water might have been dripping down his shirt. As he turned to the left and looked down he saw a cobra....yes that's correct, a COBRA moving its head backwards underneath the seat. That was Mbombela pilot Rudolph Erasmus' encounter with an extra passenger on his plane at 11,000ft mid-air, that turned out to be a Cape cobra. Pilot Rudolph Erasmus tells Sakina Kamwendo the bizarre and scary tale.
Justice Minister, Ronald Lamola says his department intends to appeal the United Arab Emirates decision to deny South Africa's extradition request for Rajesh and Atul Gupta. The brothers were understood to have been in custody in a Dubai prison following last year's high-profile arrest. However, reports have emerged that the brothers were spotted in Switzerland late last month. Gupta family members and associates are accused of fraudulent activities and state capture corruption. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Sandile Swana.
Justice Minister, Ronald Lamola says he became aware of the failed extradition of the Gupta brothers from the United Arab Emirates only late last night. This despite Rajesh and Atul Gupta possibly being released from custody in the UAE from as early as the 13th of February earlier in the year. The brothers were understood to have been in custody in a Dubai prison following last year's high-profile arrest. However, reports have emerged that the brothers were spotted in Switzerland late last month. Minister Lamola says these latest developments in relation to the Gupta brothers should not be understood as a failure by the state.
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Kgosientso Ramokgopa, says there are many choices and difficult decisions that are going to be made going forward for the future to resolve load shedding. He has been updating the media and South Africans on the power station visits conducted last month. Ramokgopa has highlighted the poor quality of coal at Eskom and a lack of morale among its employees as some of the problems that need to be addressed urgently. Here is short clip of his briefing.
Frankfort in the Free State has been experiencing less frequent load shedding thanks to an independent power producer in the area, Rural Maintenance. The company has been managing power distribution in the town for over a decade and was contracted by the Mafude Local Municipality. Through purchasing electricity from four local solar farms at a more affordable rate than Eskom, Rural Maintenance distributes power across the Mafube Municipality. Eskom has now threatened to block the company from reducing load-shedding schedules. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of Rural Maintenance, Chris Bosch.
Members of the subCommittee on Communication and Digital Technologies have welcomed the legal advice given by parliament's legal services in reference to the appointment of the SABC board. This after President Cyril Ramaphosa's letter to the National Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, seeking clarity on the three additional names to the list of SABC board candidates was declared unlawful. That's according to the independent legal opinion that Parliament has sought on behalf of the Communications Committee. Parliament's legal adviser Andile Tetyane explained the committee's stance. Meantime...Members of the sub-Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies welcomed the legal advice given to them on the matter.
The number of suspected cash-in-transit robbers who have died following a shoot-out with police in Sebokeng in the Vaal this morning, has risen to nine. One suspect has succumbed to gunshot wounds in hospital while eight others died at the crime scene. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe who joined the team on the line from Sebokeng, where the police minister and SAPS leadership visited the scene.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) says the instability witnessed in the various metro governments across the country has spurred it (DA) to table legislation in Parliament which would stabilize these governments. The DA says it's submitting a suite of bills to prepare Parliament for the possibility of local, provincial and national coalition governments. DA Chief Whip Siviwe Gwarube says its critical that Parliament be proactive in creating a legislative framework that would assist with governance stability and reliable service delivery. She is spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana has decided to withdraw the exemption of Eskom from the Public Finance Management Act. Godongwana appeared before Parliament's Standing committees on the Auditor-General, Finance, Public Accounts, Appropriations and the Public Enterprises Portfolio this morning. He says they are suspending the decision following a meeting with the Auditor General to have further consultation with the auditor-general and Eskom's auditors.
Suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane has described the conduct of the Chairperson of the Section 194 Portfolio Committee inquiry - Richard Dyantyi - as a mockery of justice. Advocate Mkhwebane was reacting to the interaction between herself and Dyantyi at the start of Yesterday's proceedings. Since then, she has also given the inquiry into her fitness to hold office an ultimatum to halt its proceedings by this hour (LUNCHHOUR). This, after the committee decided to continue with its proceedings, listening to briefings by evidence leaders despite the absence of Mkhwebane's legal team as the office of the public protector has stopped funding her legal fees. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to legal analyst, Mpumelelo Zikalala.
Solidarity, says it has recieved a legal letter addressed from the State Attorney announced that the state of disaster pertaining to the energy crisis would be withdrawn today. It says it was furhtermore requested to withdraw its court application to have this state of disaster scrapped. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to head of Solidarity's research institute, Connie Mulder.
The Section 194 parliamentary committee inquiry into the fitness to hold office of suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane kicked off once more today with flares and tension between committee chairperson Richard Dyantyi and Mkhwebane. This as the committee continues with its work despite objections from Mkhwebane following the withdrawal of her legal fees by the office of the public protector. In starting today's proceedings, Dyantyi had just finished acknowledging all those present when Advocate Mkhwebane got onto the virtual platform to seemingly alert the chair to an urgent letter written to the committee. Chairperson Dyantyi would not entertain Mkhwebane demanding she be muted from the virtual platform. Here is a snippet of how that exchange took place.
The digital news outlet Ground Up is reporting that the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) and trade and industry minister Ebrahim Patel, are concerned that no one involved in the fraud and corruption, has yet been formally charged and prosecuted. The trade and industry minister Ebrahim Patel, MPs and the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) chairperson Prof Barney Pityana have all expressed concern over a lack of prosecutions of lottery looters. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has so far uncovered about R1.4-billion in looting at the NLC. To discuss this matter further we're now joined on the line by the National Lotteries Commission board chairperson, Prof Barney Pityana and SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago
Tempers flared earlier today as members of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services looked to get to the bottom of how Thabo Bester faked his own death and escape from Mangaung Correctional Centre. The convicted 'Facebook Rapist', murder and now fugitive sent shockwaves throughout the country following his escape in May last year. Its believed Bester set his own cell on fire with investigations later on revealing that the person found dead in the same cell had died from a blunt force trauma to the head prior to the fire. Lawyer of G4S Security Company which runs the facility in which Bester escaped from, Ben Winks told the committee it would need to summon it to appear before they make themselves available to account to the committee.
Reeva Steenkamp's family members say they don't understanding why the Correctional Services Parole Board is holding a hearing for Oscar Pistorius before they fully heal from the loss of a loved one. Steenkamp's mother June made representations at the Atteridgeville Correctional Centre in Pretoria this morning. Pistorius is seeking parole after serving almost a decade of his 13-year sentence which began in 2017. The High Court in Pretoria convicted and jailed the world's renowned Paralympian for murdering his girlfriend Steenkamp at his Pretoria east home on Valentines Day in 2013. The parole board is expected to announce its decision later today. For a look at the country's parole system, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Legal Expert Mpumelelo Zikalala.
South African consumers have their backs against the wall. With the rising interest rates , the soaring costs of food and fuel and the nersa power price hike for Eskom, consumers disposable income continues to come under pressure. Analysts say South Africans are going to be forced to make difficult decisions about their priorities as they expect these tough times to continue for a while. This week the Competition Commission also added its voice, expressing concerns over opportunistic increases in food prices. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Patrick Buthelezi, Economist at Sanlam
The EFF in Gauteng says it is confident Ekurhuleni Mayor, Tania Campbell will be ousted in today's special council meeting. This as the council sits to hear and vote on a second motion of no confidence against Campell. The EFF together with the ANC both occupy the positions of speaker and chip whip respectively, effectively isolating Campbell who hails from the DA's minority coalition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale say they will not renew the G4S contract in 2026. During a media briefing in Bloemfontein Thobakgale said they are in the process of seeking legal advise to find a way to manage the relationship between the department and G4S until the end of the contract. The department confirmed that the Thabo Bester escape was not the first security breach at the prison. This follows the findings by the department that convicted rapist and murderer's escape was a well orchestrated plan.
Former president, Thabo Mbeki has once again caused a stir with his latest leaked letter directed to the ANC's deputy president, Paul Mashatile and the entire top six officials of the party. In the scathing letter, Mbeki slams the ANC for using its majority in parliament to halt probes at Eskom and the Phala Phala game farm scandal involving president Cyril Ramaphosa. ANC secretary general, Fikile Mbalula says the letter is receiving attention from the party and a meeting with former president Mbeki may be imminent. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Contributer and Analyst for TimesLive Eusebius McKaiser.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says cabinet has directed correctional Services to speedly finalise the process to take over the operations of two private-companies mananging the correctional facilities and ensure to ensure consequence management for everyone involved. This comes the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale says the Mangaung Correctional Facility's security systems were compromised to assist in convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester's escape. Bester is understood to have successfully escaped from the Mangaung Prison in May last year, with officials claiming that he had died during a fire in his cell. Investigative journalist and author of The Misery Merchants: Life and Death in a Private South African Prison, Ruth Hopkins has questioned the department of correctional service's decision to take back control of Mangaung Prison, after it had done so in 2013. She spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane says the 500-thousand rand Bosasa donation into president Cyril Ramaphosa's CR17 campaign for the ANC presidency was not declared to parliament. Advocate Mkhwebane continues to give evidence at parliament's section 194 committee enquiry into her fitness to hold office. Mkhwebane says the investigation into the Bosasa donation was not of her accord but rather a matter raised by the DA in parliament. Here is a snippet of how this engagement took place with Advocate Dali Mpofu leading the evidence..
The Gauteng Health Department says its still consolidating an implementation plan to address some of the challenges facing the health sector in the province, especially concerns raised from the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital. This follows more assertions by Dr Tim De Maayer - a paediatric gastroenterologist from Rahima Moosa Hospital - that little has changed on the ground and most problems still persist. Dr Maayer's concerns, raised through an open letter to the department led to damning report by the health ombudsman. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Daily Maverick's Mark Heywood.
The parole hearing of convicted murderer Donovan Moodley is being heard at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre today. Moodley was convicted and sentenced for the murder of Leigh Matthews in 2004. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, 15 years for kidnapping, and 10 years for extortion. Meanwhile, Non-profit organisation, Women & Men Against Child Abuse, says should convicted murderer, Donovan Moodley, fail to present new revelations, his parole outcome will remain unchanged. The organisation's Head of Advocacy Luke Lamprecht earlier spoke to the SABC's Chriselda Lewis on their involvement and their hopes on what the outcomes of the parole hearing will be.
Following the escape of convicted rapist and murderer, Thabo Bester, questions around South Africa's two privately run prisons have resurfaced. Makhado Prison inmate, Sofoso Khumalo called into #UpdateAtNoon to elaborate on the impact corruption has on many prisons across the country, not just privately-run prisons.
Alleged Parliament arsonist, Zandile Mafe, has been referred to a facility in the Eastern Cape for mental observation. Mafe appeard in the High Court in Cape Town as part of pre-trial proceedings. Mafe previously refused to be admitted to the Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital in the Mother City. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Thandiswa Mawu
Unions representing over 53% of South Africa's public sector workers are expected to sign deal with government bringing an end to pay talks for 2023. The state, which initially tabled an offer of 4.7% in February, presented a revised offer of 7% earlier this month following vehement rejection by public sector unions - but that too was rejected, which pushed the government to its new offer of 7.5%. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to national manager at the Public Servants Association (PSA), Claude Naicker.
As reports emerge of desperate patients with broken limbs being turned away despite begging for help at Livingstone Hospital in Gqeberha, the provincial department of health says it is looking at a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by the facility. Doctors are reportedly telling patients that they do as have no implants. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eastern Cape Department of Health Deputy Director General, Dr Mtandeki Xamlashe.
Orthopedic surgeons at Livingstone Hospital in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, are reportedly unable to operate on patients with broken bones as they have no implants. According to online publication Daily Maverick, instead of surgery, orthopedic patients are being given a letter that explaining that they cannot be helped and lists three telephone numbers: one for the hospital's complaint service, the other for the Eastern Cape Department of Health's complaint line, and the third for the Presidential Hotline for patients to call. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA MPL and health portfolio committee member, Jane Cowley.
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union, POPCRU, has called for a full investigation into top prison officials at the Mangaung Correctional Facility following the escape of the notorious so-called Facebook rapist, Thabo Bester. Police have confirmed that a manhunt is currently underway for the convicted rapist and murderer after he escaped fromhis prison cell. The cell was set alight, in what was initially thought to be a suicide. A subsequent autopsy failed to match the DNA of the dead body to that of Bester. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Investigative Journalist and author of The Misery Merchants - Life And Death In A Private South African Prison, Ruth Hopkins
South Africans are bracing themselves for yet another hike in the price of electricity the after the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved an average increase in the electricity tariff of 18.65% for the 2023/24 financial year and a 12.74% increase for the following year. The increase will take effect from 1 April for clients that source their electricity directly from Eskom, while municipalities will increase their prices from 1 July. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Financial analyst at the Electricity department at NERSA, Dr. Bongani Khonjelwayo..
Health NPO, Right to Care says South Africa has one of the highest TB rates in the world. It says the country is also under-diagnosing the disease. Today marks World TB Day and this years theme is titled " 'Yes! You and I can end TB. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Lucy Connell, TB programme lead at health NPO, Right to Care.
The three-day National Conference on the Country's Constitution is expected to draw to a close today in Midrand, North of Johannesburg. The conference was opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday and drew the likes of former constitutional judge, Albie Sachs, the former public protector Professor Thuli Mandonsela, academics, members of legislatures and many other stakeholders. Themed, 'Reflections and the Road Ahead' the conference celebrated the past 25 years of the Constitution with a focus on nation building, as well issues of service delivery and social stability. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Mosibudi Mangena, a board member at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflections
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says the South African economy will only grow by a projected 0.1% this year. It expects weak growth due to load-shedding, as well as the weaker commodity prices and external environment. However, the IMF expects growth to rebound in the medium term, although only to about 1.5% per year, with income per capita likely to stagnate. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Waldo Krugell is a Professor in Economics at the North-West University.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has hosted Belgium's King Philippe and Queen Mathilda. The royal couple is in the country on state visit which will end on Monday. The Presidency says that the Belgian monarchy's first visit to South Africa demonstrates strong bilateral relations between the two countries. Members of cabinet as well as business representatives are part of the Belgian delegation.
EFF leader, Julius Malema is currently addressing members of the media from the party's headquarters in Johannesburg. The address, coming from Winnie Madikizela Mandela House in Marshalltown follows the party's National Protest on Monday. Yesterday, ANC's secretary general Fikile Mbalula also held a similar media briefing from Luthuli House where he labelled the EFF's 'National Shutdown' as a flop and failure. Malema has hit back saying the ruling party is detached from reality.
The DA led multi-party coalition in Tshwane says it believes it has the numbers to elect its own preferred mayoral candidate for the Capital. This as a special council sitting to elect a new mayor reconvenes today following its collapse on Friday. The Tshwane metro has been without a mayor since the resignation of former mayor Randall Williams in February. His resignation was followed by the election of former speaker Dr Murunwa Makwerela as the new mayor but his tenure was short lived after he too resigned following the faking of his insolvency rehabilitation certificate. DA mayoral candidate, Cilliers Brink explains the latest from the counsel sitting with SABC reporter Patricia Visagie.
Former president Jacob Zuma has accused the Helen Suzman Foundation of being selective with the truth in his case for the private prosecution of Advocate Billy Downer and journalist, Karyn Maughn. Zuma's legal counsel, Advocate Thabani Masuku says the Helen Suzman Foundation is masquerading as a friend of the court while having chosen to side and advocate for the two accused in the matter. Masuku elaborates
Data from Stats SA shows inflation is starting to trend on the upside again. Newly-released Statistics South Africa shows annual consumer price inflation increased from six-point-nine per cent in January to seven per cent in February this year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Economist at Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt
President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is about time that South Africa reflects on the Constitution, its efficacy and the extent it has served the aspirations of the people of South Africa. He was speaking at the launch of the three day National Conference on the Constitution at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg. The conference currently taking place is hosted by the Justice and Correctional Services Department. The aim of the dialogue is to reflect on the past 25 years of the Constitution, Nation Building, Gender Equality, Youth Economic Empowerment, as well issues of Service Delivery and Social Stability to chart a way forward on the path towards building on the gains of democracy. During his address President Ramaphosa reflected on the purpose of the Constitution.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is working to ensure functional municipalities to help realise the achievements of the many promises made in the Bill of Rights. He was speaking during the Human Rights Day commemoration in the town of De Aar in the Northern Cape easrlier this afternoon. Ramaphosa said most municipalities are failing to provide the basic amenities including water and sanitation, refuse and housing because of lack of capacity. He says government's failure to provide such services is a violation of the people's rights which government ought to protect. The president says they are now working to improve the capacity of the personnel at these municipalities.
Electricity Minister, Kgosientso Ramokgopa says the recent low level of loadshedding are due to low demand in the country. Ramokgopa is on a site visit of the Kusile Power Station in Mpumalanga. His visit come at the back of relatively low to no loadshedding over the last couple of days. Minister Ramokgopa elaborates...
Former president of Azapo, Dr Mosibudi Mangena has called for a change of the mindset of the majority of black South Africans. This comes as the country marks what he terms as Sharpeville Day which government has adopted as the official Human Rights Day today. Dr Mangena has lambasted government's response to the National Protest led by the EFF yesterday, including the recent tensions and behaviour of both government and labour unions. Dr Mangena explains in the conversation with SABC News anchor, Desiree Chauke.
EFF members are gathering at Church Square in Pretoria as part of the National Shutdown, calling for the resignation of president Cyril Ramaphosa and an end to load shedding. Police presence has been heightened at Church Square where the EFF and various organisations are converging. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Abongile Dumako
EFF leader, Julius Malema, says the party will launch legal action against KZN Police Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi after he allegedly said police would use combat against protesters in today's national shutdown. Malema says the Constitution does not make provision for the use of force against demonstrators. This as the presence of police and SANDF soldiers remains high amid protest action across the country. The EFF-led protest is calling for the end to load shedding and for the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa. Malema addressed members and supporters in Pretoria..
Soweto Parliament leader, Nhlanhla Lux Dlamini's home was attacked in the early hours of this morning. Dlamini claims at least two bombs were thrown at his home. Meanwhile, Police Minister, Bheki Cele, says the matter has been handed over to the Hawks to investigate and has also made it clear that at this time he cannot link the bombings to the current protest.
Police have used rubber bullets to disperse protesters barricading several roads from Seshego to Polokwane in Limpopo. Protesters used stones, and burning tires to close the roads. Malls and other local businesses at Seshego Circle centre remain shut. Some business owners in the area say they are running at a loss due to the shut-down. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi.
Online publication GroundUp says it seen photographs of a man who closely resembles 'Facebook rapist' Thabo Bester shopping in Sandton City nearly two months after his reported death in prison. On Wednesday GroundUp reported that it has uncovered new evidence that reveals suspicious circumstances in the prison fire thought to have killed "Facebook rapist" Thabo Bester. Last year in May, the Department of Correctional Services announced that Bester had been found dead in his cell at the Mangaung Correctional Centre. The department reported that a fire had broken out and a dead body was found under a burnt mattress. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Groundup reporter, Daniel Steyn.
Labour Federation, SAFTU together with other working class formations are currently giving an update on preparations for the National Protest set for next week on Monday. This comes as sentiments over the protest continue to be divided. Dubbed a National Shutdown, the protest, led by the EFF is aimed at raising concern over the crippling rolling blackouts, high unemployment and the high cost of living including for president Cyril Ramaphosa to resign. SAFTU's general secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi outlines demands ahead of Monday's protest.
The Film and Publication Board (FPB) has requested Twitter to take down a video that reportedly incites violence against those who will not participate in protest marches planned for 20 March. In a statement, the Film and Publication Board (FPB) says the video warns that any pupil wearing school uniform during the protests will be beaten up, as well as teachers and police officers. Film and Publication Board CEO, Mashilo Boloka says the FPB is concerned by the video.
The EFF in the Tshwane region has just lay criminal charges against the DA mayoral candidate for Mayor in the City of Tshwane Cilliers Brink and party councillors Jacqui Uys and Katlego Makgaleng for electoral fraud in the election of the Speaker earlier this week. This comes after the DA had instructed its members to number their ballot papers, to prove that they voted for the multi-party coalition's candidate. The IEC declared the DA's 69 votes as spoilt and invalid. His also comes ahead of the ANC march in Pretoria tomorrow together with the council sitting to elect a new mayor. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi,
Police Minister, Bheki Cele, has assured all South Africans and the business sector, that Monday next week will be a normal business day. This in the wake of a planned national shutdown by the EFF and other interested organizations, calling for the resignation of president Cyril Ramaphosa, end in load shedding and the high rate of unemployment. Yesterday, EFF leader, Julius Malema, confirmed that the protest will go ahead as planned. And Cele says any form of disruption and intimidating of those who are not participating in the protest, will not be tolerated. He says it will be business as usual on Monday next week.
The SA National Taxi Council (Santaco) has refused to participate in the EFF's planned shutdown. The EFF vowed to shut down the entire country on Monday to protest against load shedding and to demand President Cyril Ramaphosa's resignation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Santaco national spokesperson Bafana Magagula
A KwaZulu-Natal is reeling following the abduction of their 2-month-old baby by armed suspects his at baby's home in Welbedacht West in Chatsworth, south of Durban. Police in the province have confirmed that a kidnapping case is being investigated after the baby was snapped on Friday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Nonjabulo Mtungwa Makamo.
The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster says it is well prepared for any violent eventualities during the much-talked about National Protest led by the EFF together with various civic formations. The protest, dubbed a 'national shutdown' is aimed at calling for an end to the rolling blackouts, the increasing cost of living and joblessness including for president Cyril Ramaphosa to resign. Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says if people are not at work on Monday, it would be because they took leave on the day.
A report was launched by Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla and the Health Ombud, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba. A report on the findings of an investigation into allegations against the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital has found that the hospital is unsafe, dirty and filthy. The investigation took just over a year to conclude and some of the complaints that led to the investigation suggested that the dignity of the patients at the hospital was not taken seriously. Professor Makgoba says the report also found that allegation and that Mkabayi was not at the hospital full-time,were true.
The Electoral Commission says the 69 votes of the DA that were cast for the Speaker of the City of Tshwane council were not counted as they violated the law and compromises the identity of the voter in so far as secret balloting is concerned. This comes as the DA is considering taking legal action against the Electoral Commission over this decision. The elections saw Tshwane councillor and African Transformation Movement member Mncedi Ndzwanana elected council speaker in the early hours of this morning. He defeated the DA led multi-party candidate Kholofelo Morodi from ActionSA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC's Gauteng Commissioner Thabo Masemula.
The DA within the City of Tshwane is seeking legal advice over the IEC's decision to declare 69 of its votes as invalid, spoilt votes during the election of the new Speaker of Tshwane, Mncedi Ndzwanana. Ndzwanana, from the African Transformation Movement beat the DA led multi-party candidate Kholofelo Morodi from ActionSA by 105 to 37 votes. The DA's 69 votes which were declared invalid would have given the DA led multi-party coalition a total of 106 votes to the 105 from the ANC and EFF led coalition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA caucus chairperson, Councillor Jacqui Uys.
Police in Makhado have launched a massive manhunt for a group of heavily armed suspects who attacked and shot at police transport six awaiting trial prisoners and helped them to escape. Udo Carelse spoke to spokesperson for the police in Limpopo, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo
Security has been beefed up at Greys Hospital in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal as some members of NEHAWU are still picketing outside. Reporters on the ground say there are also concerns about mortuaries not being in service. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu.
The labour appeals court has issued an order interdicting with immediate effect essential service workers affiliated to Nehawu from continuing with the strike or any other form of industrial action. The court order comes as Nehawu had vowed to intensify its strike this week. NEHAWU says it will comment on matter as soon as it receives legal advise. Udo Carelse spoke to NEHAWU president, Mike Shingange
The National Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya held a media briefing earlier today to give an update on high profile cases the HAWKS are investigating as well as to outline and take stock of milestones achieved since the previous quarter. Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya says the killing of police poses a threat to the people of South Africa.
There is a severe microbial contamination in South African rivers and dams . Tha's according to a report from the Department for Water and Sanitation which found that more than half of the sampled sites presented a high health risk if water from the source was used for irrigating crops that were eaten raw, and only 42% indicated a low risk. The results also revealed that water in 64% of the sampled sites was unsuitable for recreational activities. Jon Gericke spoke to Dr Moloko Matlala, Chief Director for National Water Resource Information Managemnt at the Department of Water and Sanitation
Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade has visited the school where a learner's body was found in a pit latrine. Police have opened an inquest docket after the four-year-old girl's body was found in the toilet at a school in Vaalbank village in Glen Gray on Tuesday morning. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter Sidima Mfeku.
The Centre for Child Law, together with Public Interest Law Centre, Section 27 have expressed dismay and shock at the latest death of a young pre-school learner who's body was found in a pit latrine toilet in Vaalbank Village in Glen Grey near Queenstown in the Eastern Cape. Police say the 4-year old's mother went to the school asking about the girl's whereabouts as she did not return home. Jon Gericke spoke to Stanley Malematja from the Centre for Child Law.
Online publication, Ground Up , has reported that Irvin Jim, the General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUMSA) has given Zwelinzima Vavi notice that the Trade union intends to recall him from his role as general secretary of the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) . In the letter seen by Ground Up, Irvin Jim cites that Vavi's conduct over a protracted period of time has plainly brought NUMSA as an organisation in disrepute. According to SAFTU constitution, SAFTU office-bearers can be recalled by the affiliate which provided the office-bearer if the member violates the constitution of the affiliate, or brings it into disrepute. To unpack what these internal squabbles mean, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to labour analyst, Terry Bell.
Four independent electricity contractors employed by the municipality of Ekurhuleni to fix electricity at Crywagen Park in were killed by angry community members who suspected them to be cable thieves on Monday afternoon. The ANC in Ekurhuleni, says its highly concerned about mob behaviour which has resulted to the four fatalities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC Caucus Whip, Jongizizwe Dlabathi.
The strike by members of NEHAWU in the health sectors continues to impact health services in the Eastern Cape. The strike affects health service provision at Dora Nginza and Livingstone Hospitals. However, the Eastern Cape department of health secured a court order interdicting striking workers from interfering or preventing the department from executing its duties. The interdict also bars the striking workers from coming within a 200-metre radius of the department's facilities, unless they report for duty. Patients, workers and clients may also not be interfered with or intimidated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nehawu spokesperson, Lwazi Nkolozi.
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla says at least four deaths can be attributed to the strike action. He also hit hit back at workers saying the principle of no work and no pay shall apply as long as the strike continues.
The country's healthcare system has come under strain as workers affiliated to trade union NEHAWU forge ahead with their national strike action. This despite at least five of the country's provincial health departments obtained court orders interdicting the striking workers from interfering nor preventing the department from exercising its duties. The interdict also bars workers from coming within a 200 metre radius of the department's facilities, unless they report for duty. CEO at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg, Gladys Bogoshi gave this grim picture of how the situation has been at her hospital.
Human Rights activist and Daily Maverick Editor, Mark Heywood says the ongoing wage strike by NEHAWU affiliated workers has resulted in the loss of life. Workers in the public sector have downed tools in demand of a 10% wage increase from government. Heywood says it is vital that striking worker do not prevent patients from accessing healthcare.
Disruptions have been reported in all main Gauteng hospitals including at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto, Helen Joseph Hospital and the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital. Speaking with SABC reporter, Nothando Magudulela , Nehawu's regional secretary in the province, Vhunani Masindi refuted claims that some strikers pelted cars with stones outside the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital on Wednesday.
Wits SRC deputy president Kamogelo Mabe has announced the suspension of student protests for 24 hours. The SRC say the suspension is on conditions that Wits university removes police and private security from campus. Mabe and the SRC Secretary General at Wits University, Tshiamo Chuma were briefing the media on the latest update on the ongoing protest.
Former Public Protector, Thuli Madondela continues to engage with members of Parliament's Section 194 committee probing suspended PP, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office. This follows a heated engagement between Madonsela and Mkhwebane's legal representative, Advocate Dali Mpofu yesterday where Madonsela accused Mpofu of conducting himself in an unethical manner. Madonsela has been taking questions from members of the committee and here is a snippet of the interaction.
Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe says African leaders must be at the forefront on the solutions to fighting problems facing the continent when it comes to energy. Mantashe was delivering his keynote address on the first day of the Africa Energy Indaba, which starts today at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Organisers of the conference say the aim of the Indaba is to provide space and a platform to discuss and seek solutions for adequate energy generation across the continent.
Gun Free South African says it intends on instituting class action against the South African Police Service for deaths and injuries allegedly resulting from corruption and negligence firearms management. GFSA says this stems from the deaths and injuries which occurred due to the actions of Colonel Christian Prinsloo and Colonel David Naidoo who confessed to selling over two-thousand guns in police stores to gang leaders on the Cape Flats. Director of Gun Free South Africa Adele Kirsten says as of 2016, the SAPS has recorded that 'Prinsloo's guns' have been used in, at least, over a thousand murders with 187 children being shot by criminals using a 'Prinsloo gun' and 67 minors being killed from those same guns. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kirsten for further details.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa as the new Minister of Electricity. Speaking to the nation on Monday night, the president said the new minister's primary task will be to significantly reduce the severity and frequency of load shedding as matter of urgency Ramokgopa was working in the presidency before he was appointed minister of electricity. He also served as Mayor of Tshwane from 2010 to 2016. A civil engineer by training, Ramokgopa entered formal politics as a ward councillor for the ANC in Tshwane in 2000. Amina Accram filed this report.
The Police Ministry held a Ministerial Crime Prevention Imbizo in Westbury this morning. Residents had an opportunity to engage with the Minister of Police Bheki Cele , the SAPS and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. Meanwhile, Police Minister Bheki Cele has deployed a specialised task force to Westbury in Johannesburg for the next 3 months, in an attempt to combat gang violence and the recent increase in crime. This follows a spate of gang related shooting incidents over the last few weeks, which resulted in several people being killed and many more wounded. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
Several public service institutions have been disrupted as the National Education and Health Workers Union (NEHAWU) has forged ahead with its planned public service strike. The strike comes after the union appealed a court order, obtained by the Department of Public Service and Administration, to interdict the strike action. Public servants are unhappy with government's tabled offer averaging at a pensionable increase of 4.7% for the 2023/24 financial year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NEHAWU National Spokesperson, Lwazi Nkolonzi.
The Democratic Alliance says the $580 000 paid in cash to President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm, was not declared to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) in December 2019. DA leader John Steenhuisen filed a Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) request with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) in December 2022, after Ramaphosa claimed that he had received US$580 000 from one Hazim Mustafa, a Sudanese national, as payment for cattle as part of a legitimate business transaction. In turn, Mustafa claimed in a media interview that he had complied with the requirement to declare the money to SARS officials at OR Tambo airport upon entering South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spokes to DA leader John Steenhuisen
Commuters in Johannesburg have been left stranded as Pio-Trans, which operates and manages a wing of Rea Vaya BRT, has run out of fuel. The company, which renders bus services to the City of Johannesburg has parked its busses at its depot. Last Monday drivers downed tools following the non-payment of salaries due to a financial crisis allegedly faced by the company faces. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg MMC for Transport, Kenny Kunene.
South Africa is among the countries ranked as having the lowest rate of mental well being in the world. That's according to the Mental Health Million Project's latest world report. However, a new research study by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reveals that ongoing load shedding in South Africa has strained residents' mental wellbeing. SABC Specialist Researcher Zandile Myeza reports.
Labour Federation, SAFTU has confirmed that it will join the EFF National Shutdown set for the 20th of March. The march is aimed at expressing concern over the rolling blackouts at Eskom, the rising cost of living, unemployment and crime amongst other issues. SAFTU's general secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi however warns that their participation in the National Shutdown comes with preconditions. Vavi explains
Police Minister, Bheki Cele, says police must do more to ensure those involved in gang-related violence are arrested. Cele visited the Sophiatown police station in Johannesburg this morning following an escalation of gang violence in the area. The purpose of Cele's visit was to establish the effectiveness of the operational response to the violence, which includes amongst other SAPS units, Crime Intelligence, Public Order Police , Technical Response Team and Anti Gang Unit (AGU). The recent violence erupted after an alleged gang kingpin was killed last week. Cele responded to concerns by community members of police working with gang members
Wits University students in Johannesburg have embarked on a fee-related shutdown protest.Students took to the streets closing the institutions entrances and disrupting the morning traffic. The students are angry over issues over historical debt not being able to register. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Horisani Sithole
The The Constitutional Court has dismissed President Cyril Ramaphosa's efforts to seek direct access to overturn an independent panel's findings that he may have violated the Constitution and committed money-laundering in connection with the ongoing Phala Phala saga. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to News24 Karyn Maughan.
The much anticipated cabinet reshuffle by President Cyril Ramaphosa seems to be gaining momentum following the resignation of Deputy President David Mabuza as a Member of Parliament. This has been compounded by the imminent swearing in of Finance Minister as a Member of parliament. Godongwana has been one of two non-parliamentary cabinet members as the president is permitted to appoint a maximum of two people to his executive who are not MPs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ntebo Mokobo.
Some Soweto residents say they are not entirely opposed to the roll-out of pre-paid electricity meters. However, they want them to be linked to a monthly flat rate payment. There has been resistance from residents to the installation of the meters since Eskom introduced them in 2013 to improve revenue collection. Last month Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi proposed that Soweto residents' Eskom debt of 5 billion be written off. SABC senior reporter, Tshepo Phagane filed the following reporter.
Expected rise in strikes, riots and protests are going to test business resilience. This is according to a new report from insurer Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS). The insurer says businesses are increasingly witnessing the impact of protest movements and civil unrest on their operations, a trend that is forecast to grow. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Allianz Head of Property Insurance Ronald Dodo-Tabaziva
The official unemployment rate was 32,7% in the fourth quarter of 2022. This is according to results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey just released by Statistics South Africa. The report indicates that the total number of persons employed was 15,9 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the number of unemployed persons increased by 28 000 to 7,8 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. For reaction to the latest unemployment figures, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Zwelinzima Vavi, secretary general for The South African Federation of Trade Unions.
Pressure is mounting on former Eskom CEO Andre De Ruyter to open criminal charges against those he alleges are responsible, through corrupt activities, for the dilapidated state of the Power Utility. Minister in the presidency, Mondli Gungubele says De Ruyter has a responsibility as a public official to name the alleged corrupt minister that saw the ANC allegedly feeding at the trough at Eskom. De Ruyter made the allegations shortly before he left Eskom with immediate effect on Wednesday. In a shorted chat I had earlier with Minister Gungubele, the minister says a self respecting CEO should approach law enforcement agencies over such serious allegations.
ANC secretary general, Fikile Mbalula has echoed the sentiments of the Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan in lambasting former Eskom CEO, Andre de Ruyter. Mbalula, together with Minister Gordhan says CEOs of state-owned entities should steer away from what he called open political debate. De Ruyter has left the power utility with immediate effect. Meanwhlie, Mbalula has challenged de Ruyter to name and shame those he alleges have links to the ANC and are corrupt at Eskom.
Civil society organisations and political parties alike have not minced their words in reflection to tenure of outgoing Eskom CEO, Andre de Ruyter after he parted ways with the embattled power utility. Among those who have expressed gratitude to de Ruyter is the Democratic Alliance's shadow minister for Public Enterprises, Ghaleb Cachalia, who says the de Ruyter has been removed because he has touched the African National Congress in its studio. The UpdateAtNoon also got comment from Economic Freedom Fighters Spokesperson, Sinawo Tambo who says de Ruyter added to the demise of the already troubled utility. Congress of the People Spokesperson Dennis Bloem says the party is not surprised by de Ruyter's sudden exit and leader of the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus), Dr Pieter Groenewald has called for a full investigation to be launched.
Eskom Group CEO André de Ruyter has left the power utility with immediate effect following a special board meeting at the utility. Both the power utility and de Ruyter reached a mutual agreement to terminate the CEO's contract. Eskom says it will announce the acting Group Chief Executive as soon as possible. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson Sikhonathi Mantshantsha.
The Central Energy Fund has come out guns blazing against allegations leveled against the fun by the outgoing Eskom CEO, Andre de Ruyter. In a statement, Central Energy Fund says it considers it reckless for Mr de Ruyter to go on National television and make wild allegations about the request for collaboration with Eskom on the coal fired power stations that Eskom intends to decommission as he could be heard in the interview. The statement further says the intention though from Mr de Ruyter is a sinister one, which has nothing to do with addressing the debilitating effects of load shedding on the South African economy through ensuring the optimisation of the capacity that sits within the South African state to address this challenge. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Central Energy Fund CEO, Dr Ishmael Poolo
Pretoria high court Judge Tintswalo Makhubele has come under scrutiny as she appears under the Judicial Conduct Tribunal. The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing commenced on Monday at the Southern Sun hotel in Rosebank, north of Johannesburg following complaints leveled against her by #UniteBehind with the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) against Judge Makhubele. She's been implicated in gross misconduct for allegedly holding a dual status as a Judge and as Chair of the PRASA Board of Control. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Pearl Magubane.
Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwna was expected to table his 2023 budget speech in a short while. Civic organisation, Budget Justice Coalition (BJC) says it hopes that the Minister will not use the social budget to fund the current crises caused by the government's bad spending habits. It cautions that the allocation of funds and reduction in spending to address the R400 billion Eskom debt, must not be implemented to the detriment of other rights found within the Constitution. For more we are now joined on the line by Motlatsi Komote , Chairperson of the Budget Justice Coalition
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research says the year 2022 was by far the most load shedding intensive year on record. The Council's experts have been giving their annual statistics on power generation since January 2022 to December the 31st. The annual statistics on power generation also included the effect that the rolling blackouts have had on the water supply. CSIR's Principal Researcher Warrick Pierce explains.
The Democratic Alliance's mayoral candidate in the City of Tshwane, Cilliers Brink says the Patriotic Alliance's toxicity has caused the failures of many coalition governments within the Gauteng province. Brink was speaking at a media briefing by the Tshwane Coalition government which backed the resigned mayor of the City, Randall Williams. SABC reporter, Patricia Visagie spoke to some of the city's coalition partners including, the FF+, ActionSA and the IFP.
U.S. Civil Rights attorney Benjamin Crump is expected to announce an intention to sue to the New York Police Department for the alleged assassination and fraudulent concealment of evidence surrounding Malcolm X's murder. The late civil rights icon was assassinated on February 21, 1965 while speaking at the Audobon Ballroom in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan. Tuesday marks the 58th anniversary of his death. And as Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports, he was killed after he split from black nationalist organization the Nation of Islam which added to speculation around his demise.
As homeowners are finding alternative sources of electricity like generators and solar panels to mitigate the energy crisis , private security group Fidelity ADT says they may also be attracting criminals. Fidelity ADT says there is a new trend emerging, where criminals are targeting solar panels. The company says it has received reports of solar panels being stolen from properties. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Marketing & communication for Fidelity ADT, Charnel Hattingh.
The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) is planning a stay-away in the Western Cape tomorrow. The taxi association says there are several reasons for this decision and has advised operators to refrain from engaging in acts of violence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Western Cape, general secretary of the South African National Taxi Council (santaco), Ryno Saaiers
Seven learners who witnessed the murder of Shaun Mphela from Geluksdal Secondary School in Ekurhuleni have dropped out and gone into hiding after receiving death threats. This is according to online publication Scrolla Africa. Mphela was stabbed to death outside his school after an altercation at the school. Speaking to the publication Scrolla Africa, parents have raised concerns about the safety of the learners after receiving the death threats. A 35-year-old man has been arrested for the murder and will appear in court on the 24th of this month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to one of the parents who wishes to remain anonymous .
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says the South African government will be challenging a court ruling delivered by the High Court in Pretoria which ordered that government grant asylum to 22 Afghan nationals. Motsoaledi says he believes a United States-based Non-Governmental Organisation is trying to use the legal system to undermine and ambush South Africa's sovereignty. The order was issued on Friday after lawyers representing the NGO approached the court on behalf of the 22 Afghan nationals. The NGO argued that the group might be victimised by the Taliban regime which took power in August 2021. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi
Outrage continues to pour over Eskom's decision to implement stage 6 rolling blackouts indefinitely. The Power Utility says this is due to eight generation unit breakdowns on Sunday afternoon resulting in customers being switched off the grip for a total of at least ten hours a day. For many businesses and residents, this is further compounded by continuous power cuts which come as a result of cable theft. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to energy expert, Ted Blom
The South African Union of Students (SAUS) says it is determined to ensure that no poor student is excluded from access to higher education and accommodation. This as, students at various institutions across the country, including the University of Cape Town and the University of Western Cape, have vowed to continue protesting until all students are registered. They have voiced out their dissatisfaction with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme's delays in allocating funds. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to SAUS spokesperson, Asive Dlanjwa.
As the country continues in perpetual darkness, many South Africans are turning to solar energy for their power supply needs. This comes as power utility, Eskom has announced the implementation of stage four load shedding due to breakdowns of a generating unit each at Koeberg, Medupi, Kriel, Arnot and Lethabo power stations. Experts have warned those looking to install solar panels, to do their home work first and to ensure that the installer they choose is fully accredited. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Head of Business Intelligence at Hohm Energy, Matthew Cruise..
The City of Ekurhuleni has kick-started a pilot project to install smoke detectors in informal settlements across the City. Smoke detectors have already been installed in an informal settlement in Dermiston as a part of the pilot. MMC for Safetey and Security, Khathutshelo Rasilingwane says the devices would help reduce the number of house fires in the country. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Rasilingwane
The South African Weather Service has issued a number of rain warnings for parts of the country, including an orange level 5 weather warning that might affect parts of Gauteng. Earlier this week, government said it may call the national police and defence force to help to respond the flooding caused by heavy rains in some parts of the country. The South African Weather Service has identified the La Nina weather phenomenon as the cause of the current heavy rains. Sebenza Nkambule spoke to South African Weather Service, Lehlohonolo Thobela.
Four people have been shot and killed and two wounded at Kwa-Zakhele in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape. Concern over the increase in gun violence has been raised as this is the second mass shooting in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Anda Nqonji on the latest with investigations.
The South African Weather Service has issued a number of warnings as heavy rains persist in some part of South Africa. Earlier, communities under the Ehlanzeni District Municipality in Mpumalanga were again warned to be on high alert as more rain are forecast for the next few days in some parts of the province. Two people are reported to have been killed and four others were missing as a results of the heavy down pours. Sakina Kanwendo spoke to SABC meteorologist, Joel Guy on some of the warnings.
Friends and fans of the late SA rapper, Kiernan Forbes, affectionately known as AKA, have gathered in Florida Road, Durban, where he was gunned down last Friday. Contributes continued to pour in for the musician, with eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda saying the criminals have robbed South Africa of an ambassador and an artist who was recognised worldwide. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonkuleleko Hlophe.
The community Eldorado Park South of Johannesburg is reeling in shock following the fatal shooting of anti-drug activist, Ayob Mungalee. The 60 year old community leader and father was gunned down outside his home last evening. Mungalee recently mobilised the community to take a stand against drug dealers in the area. Police have appealed to anyone who may have any information that may lead to the arrest of this heinous crime to come forward. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Charis Pretorius from the Eldorado Park Business Forum on how the community has received the news.
Founder of AlJama-ah Political Party, Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks has defended the cost associated with this year's State of The Nation Address. This comes after National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula defended the cost of hosting the state of nation address. Sona which will cost taxpayers around R8 million. Mapisa-Nqakula said parliament expects to spend much less of R8- million. Hendricks spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The Democratic Alliance says it expects nothing new from the president's SONA on Thursday evening. The party's chief whip Siviwe Gwarube says they will attend the session and be respectful towards the processes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke DA MP, Solly Malatsi
A contingent of medical staff from the North West has been deployed to assist the humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers, with search and rescue efforts in Türkiye. The team flew to Türkiye on Tuesday and has since arrived. Their journey follows a devastating earthquake on Monday morning, affecting both Türkiye and Syria. More than eight-thousand have been confirmed dead while thousands more are injured and missing. For the latest from Instabul Turkiye, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Chriselda Lewis who is travelling with the Gift of the Givers team.
South Africa has experienced a growing number of kidnappings over the past year, with over 1100 reported cases during the first half of last year. According to Specialist insurer, iTOO, kidnapping for ransom and extortion have shown are also on the rise with criminals now targeting mid to lower-income individuals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to iTOO Managing Director of Special Risks, Justine Naylor about the prevalence of this crime.
The Competition Commission is hearing two applications regarding SASOL GAS.. This is due to a planned controversial 96% increase in the price of pipeline gas implemented by the company. The increase has been delayed due to industry players having voiced their concerns on the price increase saying that it is untenable and would impact consumers even further in an already weakened economy. The Intensive Gas Users, Egoli Gas and others took Sasol Gas to the Competition Commission. Today Sasol is arguing that the Competition Commission has no jurisdiction on the matter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo
The ANC in the Free State insists that it has not resolved to recall Premier Sisi Ntombela. However, high-ranking officials in various party structures have confirmed through their social media accounts the decision to remove Ntombela. Ntombela's son, Bandile Ntombela, has also confirmed the news on his Facebook page. SABC News understands that Ntombela's impending removal is yet to be endorsed by the ANC's National Executive Committee. The future of Ntombela, Legislature Speaker Zanele Sifuba and nine MECs was cast in doubt after they failed to make it into the 35-member PEC. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Bloemfontein, Konelo Lekhafola on what is known so far.
Four new ANC members have been sworn in as Members of Parliament. They are ANC Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Second Deputy Secretary General Maropene Ramokgopa, NEC members Parks Tau and Sihle Zikala. They take the place of Tshilidzi Munyai, Mervyn Dirks, Masefako Dikgale and Matshidiso Mfikoe who resigned as MPs recently. The four are expected to be appointed to the executive amid a much anticipated cabinet reshuffle by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Mashatile is expected to replace David Mabuza as the country's Deputy President after mabuza announced his resignation over the weekend. Moments before the swearing in, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Joseph Mosia.
The fourth quarter 2022 Debt Index released by DebtBusters indicates that consumers are buckling under the pressure of the rising cost of living, which is compounded by flat salary increases, resulting in increased borrowing. The index indicates that consumers are taking on more unsecured loans to supplement their salaries. DebtBuster says unsecured debt for the average consumer was up by twenty-one percent in 2022 compared to 2016, while over ninety-percent of consumers, who applied for debt counselling last year, had a personal loan. Naledi Ngcobo filed this report.
The trial of Julius Malema and his body guard, Adrian Snyman has resumed in the East London regional court in the Eastern Cape. The trial was adjourned on Thursday afternoon shortly after magistrate Antoinette Olivier, ruled against an application by Malema's legal team for her to recuse herself. The accused's legal representatives brought the application saying their clients will not receive a fair trial if Magistrate Antoinette Olivier continues to preside over the trial. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sidima Mfeku on the day's proceedings
Eskom board member, Mteto Nyati, says they have urged the parastatal management to continue to address, with a sense of urgency, the current load-shedding crisis facing the country. He says the board has also identified key priorities to get a long-term solution to the energy crisis. Amina Accram filed this report
SA Tourism says it is still in the process of formulating a formal media statement in response to reports by the Daily Maverick that the agency is allegedly on the verge of announcing close a sponsorship to English Club, Tottenham Hotspur to the tune of nearly R1Billion. The Daily Maverick quotes presentations it claims to be in their possession for this allegation, adding that the acting CEO for the Tourism Agency, Themba Khumalo had presented this proposal to the Tourism Board.
The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs in parliament is expected to be briefed by the Content Advisor on the submissions received on the Electoral Amendment Bill. This is after it was opened for public comment again. The main points of contention include the number of signatures independents require and the allocation of seats. The bill is aimed at expanding the Electoral Act to include independent candidates as contesters to elections in the National Assembly and provincial legislatures. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC parliamentary correspondent, Mercedes Besent.
The Gauteng Department of Health says it has prioritised the fast-tracking of critical and advanced medical procedures. The department says there are currently over 30 thousand people on the waiting lists. The department says it hopes to reduce the surgical backlogs through the utilisation of cluster hospital theatres and collaborations, as well as filling critical vacant posts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA Gauteng shadow Health MEC Jack Bloom about how the information came to light.
Tourism Minister, Lindiwe Sisulu has rubbished the Daily Maverick article on an alleged imminent R1-Billion sponsorship deal between SA Tourism and English Club, Tottenham Hotspur, as being riddled with inaccuracies and untruths aimed at tarnishing her image. The publication writes that the acting CEO for the tourism agency, Themba Khumalo presented this proposal to the Tourism SA Board. Sakina Kamwendo spoke t journalist at the Daily Maverick's, Rebecca Davies and began by asking her if she was indeed in possession of the presentation allegedly make on the deal.
The Economic Freedom Fighters in KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed that all the party's deputy mayors who were serving in coalition with the Inkatha Freedom Party, have indeed resigned. Last week, EFF leader, Julius Malema announced that the coalition agreement between the red berets and the IFP had collapsed. EFF chair in the province, Mongezi Twala has told SABC News that the party's councillors have also submitted letters of resignation to their provincial Secretaries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe about what came out of her conversation with EFF chair in the province, Mongezi Twala.
The 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows that most countries are failing to stop corruption. The CPI paints a discouraging story for South Africa as the country slips one point in the rankings of the leading global index measuring perceptions of public sector corruption around the world. Now ranked at 43, the country is back where it started in 2012, with very little upward movement over the past decade. To unpack the survey, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Karam Singh, Executive Director at Corruption Watch.
Gauteng authorities say they are still searching for the tiger that was reportedly sighted roaming around Edenvale, east of Johannesburg. CCTV footage of the wild animal surfaced on Monday morning, prompting authorities to warn residents to be on the lookout and keep all animals indoors. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy director-general of natural resources management in the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Dorah Modise
The presiding judge in the corruption trial of former President Jacob Zuma has recused himself from the matter, as the case continues in the Pietermaritzburg High Court in KwaZulu-Natal. In adjourning the trial last October, Judge Piet Koen asked the State and the Defense to make written submissions on whether he should recuse himself as the trial judge. This came as Zuma, objected against Advocate Billy Downer leading the prosecution. Koen said while the decision was hard to make, his intention was to preserve the integrity of the court process beyond criticism.
The civic organisation SANCO has accused the former president Jacob Zuma of exploiting it to gain sympathy for his political battles. This after Zuma was elected as the KwaZulu-Natal SANCO chairperson on Friday. The organisation's general-secretary Mike Soko says this is disheartening and shows the extent of the former president's desperation. Soko told the media in Midrand, Johannesburg, that the structure which elected Zuma is bogus
The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has granted an order to halt a special council sitting scheduled for today in Ekurhuleni. The urgent application was made by speaker Raymond Dhlamini who argued that the meeting was illegally called by Ekurhuleni city manager, Dr Imogen Mashazi. Mashazi wrote to councillors on Friday citing that reasons were provided motivating for the special sitting. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Prabashni Moodley.
Police Minister, Bheki Cele has arrived in Gqeberha to visit the house and families of those that were gunned down and killed yesterday in KwaZakhele Township in the Eastern Cape. The mass murder of eight people during a birthday celebration has left the community in shock with the police launching a manhunt for the suspects. Amongst those that were killed includes the owner of the house which hosted the birthday celebration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Kim Daniels
The IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa says the EFF's decision to get out of the two parties' coalition will not intimidate the IFP. At the weekend, the EFF leader Julius Malema said the party had resolved to support all motions of no confidence in mayors in municipalities in which the IFP governs. The EFF has cut ties with its former ally in over ten municipalities across KwaZulu-Natal. Hlabisa says the reason for the break-up with the EFF is due to a possible coalition between the red berets and the ANC
The Section 194 inquiry into suspended Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office has resumed with the testimony from Zambia's Public Protector, Caroline Zulu-Sokonibis. The probe adjourned last December following the testimony of two witnesses. The inquiry is expected to be briefed on correspondence received from Mkhwebane's legal team ahead of this week's planned sittings, where she is expected to call further witnesses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Joseph Mosia
Voting for the position of mayor for the City of Johannesburg is expected to get underway this afternoon. Three candidates have been nominated for the position. They include Al Jamah's Thapelo Amad, former mayor Mpho Phalatse and Action SA's Funzi Ngobeni. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Tshepo Phagane
The Democratic Alliance leader in Gauteng, Solly Msimnang has accused ActionSA of a wanting to initiate a reverse take over of the Johannesburg Metro council. This follows what appears to be a breakdown in relations between the two parties as Mpho Phalatse was ousted as mayor yesterday. Al Jama Ah's Thapelo Amad, ActionSA's Fundzi Ngobeni and Phalatse have since been nominated for the position of Executive Mayor in today's council sitting. Voting is expected to commence soon. Earlier in the day however, our colleague Mbalenhle Mthethwa caught up with Msimang and asked him to respond to allegations that the DA national leadership was sabotaging Phalatse over her possible future threat and challenge to current leader, John Steenhuisen...Msimang had this to say...
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has confirmed that it will oppose bail for the female police constable that was arrested in Limpopo for allegedly forcing her minor boy child to have sexual intercourse with her. The incident, allegedly captured on video caused a stir on social media yesterday with many accusing the mother of being a pedophile while others cautioned against passing judgement by proposing that perhaps, the woman was forced by someone else to engage in the sexual act with her own son. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IPID spokesperson, Lizzy Suping.
The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has added his voice to growing international condemnation following the murder of leading Eswatini human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko over the weekend. His death came after King Mswati the Third warned those calling for democracy in the kingdom that his mercenaries would deal with them. Maseko was the founder of a coalition of opposition parties known as the Multi-stakeholder Forum and among groups calling for the end to Africa's last absolute monarchy. Dr Chidochashe Nyere from the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC) at University of Johannesburg
Juan Cassidy from the Hy-drome renewable energy group says he is outside Luthuli House to provide solutions over the energy crisis. Cassidy is one of hundreds of protesters who marched past the ANC headquarters on Wednesday. A seperate group led by the party's Youth League said it was ready and well prepared to receive their guest outside Luthuli House in Johannesburg. This as the DA intensified its #PowerToThePeopleMarch over the country's energy challenges.
The African National Congress has declined to receive a memorandum from the Democratic Alliance at its "power to the people march in Johannesburg today. The DA marched to protest against continuous load shedding to the ANC which it says has engineered the country's energy crisis. Speaking to members of the media outside the party's headquarters, ANC National Spokesperson Pule Mabe said the DA should have marched to ESKOM's Megawatt Park.
DA leader John Steenhuisen says they will vehemently oppose the proposed eighteen-point- percent electricity taffif hike for Eskom. He led thousands of his supporters in march against loadshedding, to the ANC head offices in Johannesburg today. The official opposition accused the ANC of deliberately engineering the rolling blackouts. Last week the National Energy Regulator of South Africa - NERSA appoved the tarrfi hike for electricity for this year. Steenhuisen says South Africans can no longer take the responsibility of the ANC's mismanagement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporters Ntebo Mokobo in Johannesburg and Mlamli Maneli in Cape Town.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is on a three-country trip to Africa, as Washington continues its unrelenting condemnation of Moscow for its war in Ukraine. She is leading a new diplomatic push by the Biden administration that aims to show the continent that the United States is a true partner. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prof John Stremlau from the department of International Relations at the University of Witwatersrand.
Two senior officials from the Lepelle-Nkumpi local municipality in Limpopo are expected to make their first appearances in the Polokwane Special Commercial Crimes Court on corruption charges. One of the pair was initially due in the same court this morning when proceedings were delayed following the arrest of his co-accused. The first suspect was arrested on Saturday after he allegedly received R30 000 gratification fee from a complainant, in exchange for awarding a tender. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo
The trial of a man accused of killing seven women is expected continue in the Polokwane High Court in Limpopo. Themba Dube is facing seven charges of murder, rape and kidnapping, as well as one charge for contravening the Immigration Act. The bodies of the women were found dumped in different locations in and around Polokwane in 2021. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kokesto Motau.
A member of parliament and former ANC Youth League secretary in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda Region in the North West, is expected to appear in the Orkney Magistrate Court. He was arrested on Friday for allegedly killing his wife last November in Kanana township near Klerskdorp. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zeblon Maine.
African National Congress President, Cyril Ramaphosa says he has requested that Eskom consider postponing the implementation of the latest energy tariff increase. The National Energy Regulator (NERSA) recently approved Eskom's electricity tariff increase application by 18-point-six-five per cent for the 2023-2024 financial year. Speaking following the ANC PEC meeting in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday, Ramaphosa added that government would not close down the Kusile and Medupi power stations as the country has spent far too much money on the two power stations.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has commended a multi-disciplinary team for the arrest of six men believed to be part of a syndicate that has been terrorising business owners in Gauteng. The suspects have been linked to at least 16 cases following surveillance operations led by Crime Intelligence Officers and Organised Crime members. The group was arrested after a businessman was rescued in Johannesburg. During the arrest police confiscated five luxury vehicles, twenty cellphones and thirty portable GPS tracking devices. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
At least 7 people have died due to heatstroke with at least one on a ventilator and recovering in the Kakamas Hospital in the Northern Cape. Local doctors have expressed serious concern as all of the deceased are farm workers working on local fields. The Kakamas area has been experiencing soaring temperatures of over forty degrees with the situation being exacerbated by water challenges in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Reginald Witbooi
South African Post Office is reportedly planning to cut worker's salaries by up to 40% from next month, as the entity's financial troubles continue to mount. Workers were recently up in arms after the post office failed to pay over R600-million in medical aid contributions. The entity is one of many State Owned Entities on the verge of collapse, with growing calls for government to intervene. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Post Office CEO, Nomkhita Mona on the state of SAPO
More than 1.2 million learners return to school in the Western Cape this year. Education MEC in the province, David Maynier says although they have admissions pressure, additional classrooms have been added to their schooling system.
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department has committed to assisting parents and unplaced learners who were displaced during the April floods and relocated to other areas. This as millions of learners in coastal areas began the 2023 academic caleder on Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo
The Eastern Cape Department on Wednesday indicated that the province is aiming to place all unplaced learners by the of the month. This after the Independent Examination Board's (IEB) matric class of 2022 achieved a pass rate of 98.42% for the National Senior Certificate, slightly higher than last year's pass rate of 98.39%. Abongile Jantjies
The City of Johannesburg's electricity entity, City Power has embarked on an operation to disconnect businesses, resident's properties and government institutions that continue to owe the municipality millions of rands in electricity debt. The utility is currently disconnecting customers who owe the Alexandra depot over R363 million. Earlier, technicians disconnected the Nigerian Consulate General in Illovo as well as the Catalyst Hotel in Sandton. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to city Power spokesperson, Isaac Mangena.
A Kimberley man accused of rape and assault will remain in custody after the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court postponed his case to Monday next week. It is alleged that the 40-year-old assaulted his wife before raping her. It is expected that another charge will be added for the alleged rape of the step daughter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Neria Hlakotsa
As South Africans attempt to come to terms with the elevated levels of load shedding, the latest International Risk Survey conducted by Financial services company, Allianz has identified electricity constrains as the biggest risk to South Africa's economy for 2023. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of Allianz Group in South Africa, Thusang Mahlangu about the aim of the survey and what it revealed about SA.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says there was a 13.9% decrease in the number of fatalities experienced on the country's roads last festive season, as compared to the previous year. Mbalula announced the 2022/2023 festive season fatalities statistics on the N1 Grasmere toll plaza, south of Johannesburg. The minister says over 1400 people died during that period.
The country's agricultural sector is requesting for farmers to be put on a different load shedding schedule. The sector says that due South Africa's energy crisis , the country will lose its food security in the next 24 months. AgriSA says this is something government can not ignore. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Christo van der Rheede , Executive Director at Agri SA
The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has granted President Cyril Ramaphosa an urgent interim interdict application against the private prosecution by former president Jacob Zuma. The full bench of the high court delivered its judgment on the matter after it heard arguments last week, from Ramaphosa and Zuma's legal teams. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to legal analyst, Mpumelelo Zikalala for his reaction to the court's ruling.
Residents of Kroonstad in the Free State have taken to the street in protest against a range of issues including a lack service delivery and the electricity challenges. The Moqhaka Local Municipality, under which Kroonstad falls, says among the changes oulined by the community, is the municipality's 60/40 rationing of electricity for accounts in arrears for 90 days and above. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the Moqhaka Local Municipality, Dika Kheswa about some of the concerns outlined in the community's memorandum of grievances.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has been monitoring the first day of school in Diepsloot in Gauteng as inland schools begin the 2023 academic year. She has pleaded with parents of learners who have not yet been allocated places at schools, to give the department least ten days in which to address the problem. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Horisani Sithole on today's proceedings.
Parents at some Quintile One schools in Malamulele have accused local schools of refusing to issue their children with stationery. They say the schools are demanding a once-off payment of 550 rand before issuing stationery to learners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo
The resignation of the Mayor of the embattled Ditsobotla municipality in the North West hardly 24 hours in office has set tongues wagging. This after Itumeleng Elizabeth Lethoko was elected into the position leaving the municipality without a mayor. Yesterday's sitting came after postponements and delays in swearing in councillors after the by-elections. Lethoko,was herself convicted of fraud and breach of the Municipal Finance Management Act in 2015. Patriotic Alliance deputy president Kenny Kunene says they had hoped to turn the municipality around. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Zabilon Maine.
Postbank has appealed to grant beneficiaries to ignore rumours circulating that the SASSA gold Card has been changed and no longer working. Postbank suspended ATM withdrawals on SASSA gold cards in December leaving some Social Relief of Distress grant recipients frustrated. Postbank says there was a system glitch which has since been resolved and beneficiaries can continue to access their money at ATM's, retailers as well as over the counter at the Post office branches. 29 million South African citizens receive grants from SASSA. Amina Accram filed this report.
Gauteng MEC, Matome Chiloane says parents should exercise patience with the department over the placement of both Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners. This comes a day before the start of the 2023 academic year for inland provinces. The Gauteng Education department earlier said they received over 290-thousand complete applications. MEC Chiloane who last year replaced the current Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi in this portfolio explains where the Online Admissions is at currently..
Parents at some Quintile One schools in Malamulele are accusing local schools of refusing to issue their children with stationery until they have made once off payments. This comes as thousands of learners are expected to return to school following the festive season break. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Michael Makungo
The Tembisa Magistrate's Court has postponed the extradition case against a Mozambican kidnapping kingpin to the 16th of January. The 50-year-old suspect is alleged to be linked to multiple kidnappings in South Africa and Mozambique. A task team pounced on the man on Saturday evening at an upmarket estate in Centurion. Police seized a 9mm licensed firearm, fourteen 9mm cartridges and five cellphones, among other items. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
Last month, a number of grant beneficiaries did not receive their R350 Social Relief of Distress Grant from the South African Social Security Agency and Postbank. This was due to some technical glitches during the November and December period which affected the timely payment of beneficiaries. SASSA and Post bank are back on track and many recipients received their January payments with no glitches. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Moabi Pitsi, Acting SASSA Spokesperson
It is that time of the year where parents are busy preparing for the opening of schools. One of the stresses that emerge at this time is the cost of uniforms and stationery. Uniforms set parents back thousands of rand. But parents are not completely left to fend for themselves. The Competion Commission has been investigating the matter and in 2021 published national guidelines on school uniforms. The guidelines stipulate that schools should follow a competitive bidding process when appointing suppliers for school uniforms and learning-related items. General secretary at the National Association of School Governing Bodies, Matakanye Matakanye says parents are not completely powerless when it comes to the issue of high cost of uniforms. Elvis Presslin spoke to Matakanye Matakanye, general secretary at the National Association of School Governing Bodies
Instability continues to be the order of the day in the Lichtenburg-based Ditsobotla Local Municipality. Contract workers have downed tools 'cause they haven't been paid their December salaries. Some are essential service workers. Protesting contract workers have blocked the municipality's entrance and scattered municipal documents all over Lichtenburg town. SABC reporter, Tebogo Phakedi filed this report.
Police have also launched a manhunt for suspects after five people were shot at in Eldorado Park south of Johannesburg last night. Two of the victims were certified dead on the scene. Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, says the motive for the shooting cannot be confirmed at this stage, although it is suspected to be related to gangsterism in the area. Elvis Presslin spoke to Eldorado Park Community Activist , Charis Pretorius about the community's plight.
Police say four suspects believed to be responsible for a shooting incident that took place in Westbury on 31 December 2022 were arrested yesterday in Westbury. Residents of Westbury, have vowed to continue to camp outside the Sophiatown police station, until police put an end to the ongoing gang related violence in the community. Residents have been camping outside the police station since November last year. This follows an increase in shooting incidents in the community. Last year alone, more than a dozen people were shot and killed, while several others were wounded. Many innocent bystanders also lost their lives after being caught in the crossfire of the ongoing gang war. SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo filed this report.
There have been growing calls for a government agency to be established to oversee the protection and compensation of whistle-blowers and their families. Many murders of those who've exposed malfeasance and corruption remain unresolved. Two prominent cases are those of Moss Phakoe, a North West anti-corruption activist, and Gauteng health official, Babita Deokaran. Phakoe was gunned down outside his Rustenburg home in 2009 after exposing corruption at the local municipality. Deokaran was assassinated for revealing corruption and malpractices at the Tembisa Hospital last year. Phanuel Shuma
ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula says the president is busy applying his mind on a possible cabinet reshuffle, following the ANC's National Elective Conference. The conference which took place in December and resumed today, saw the likes of Deputy President, David Mabuza unable to get re-elected into the ANC National Executive Committee. The list of failed contenders to the NEC also includes some cabinet ministers. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Abongile Dumako
Policies around the renewal of the ANC and adoption of the step-aside rule in the ANC constitution will be top on the agenda for ANC in the Northern Cape as the 55th national conference continues. Meanwhile, deputy chairperson of the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal, Nomagugu Simelane, says delegates will use the continuation of the party's national conference to discuss party policies. Elvis Presslin spoke to Angelo Fick, Director of Research of the Auwal Socio-economic Research about what should be expected as the conference resumes.
ANC president Cyril Rampahosa has called on ANC members to exercise discipline to bring a conclusion of its 55th National Conference today. The virtual conference is held over two days ahead of the party's January 8 celebrations on Sunday. Ramphosa says the core of the tasks identified by Conference in December is the need to restore relationship with the people of South Africa.
Small businesses in townships and rural areas around the Durban metro say the festive season boost their turnover as patrons opted to enjoy themselves at local establishments. However they say flood damage and stage 6 load shedding affected their turnover. Nonkululeko Hlophe has this report
Farmers Associations say it will take months for the agricultural industry to reap the benefits of fuel price decreases. Farmers have battled to stay afloat in light of continuous fuel price increases. Fuel prices decreased significantly, with Petrol prices decreasing by R2.06c per litre, while diesel prices decreased by over R2.60c per litre, following the appreciation of the Rand against the US Dollar, which led to a lower contribution to the Basic Fuel Prices on petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin. Zebilon Maine reports.
The ANC says the Dr Petrus Molemela stadium has now been cleared for its 111 year celebrations to be addressed by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday. This is despite earlier reports that the just over 15 000 seater stadium was vandalized with no running water, no operational lifts, no VIP rooms with no electrical and safety certificates. Briefing the media on the preparedness to hold its annual January 8 celebrations at the stadium, the governing party said there was no sinister on the part of the municipality to raise the red flag on the safety of the stadium. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Two men, accused of assaulting a Pretoria East man in a suspected racial attack, have each been granted 8- thousand rand bail at the Pretoria Magistrate's Court. Karel Prinsloo and Johannes Stassen are facing charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property and crimen injuria. The two allegedly assaulted Thato Lepinka and damaged his vehicle in a parking lot of the Willoway Shopping Centre in Garsfontein. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni on what transpired in court.
Alleged Limpopo serial rapist linked to seven rape cases is back in the Bolobedu magistrate's court today. The 33-year-old man was arrested at the Tzaneen CBD after police received a tip-off. The police have been probing at least seven rape cases that were reported between 2015 and 2016. Police say he targeted hitch-hikers and shoppers. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter Justice Shipalana on what transpired in court today.
The ANC says preparations are in place for the holding of its annual January 8 celebrations to mark its 111 years. Crafted in 1972 to celebrate the ANC's 60th anniversary, the then ANC President Oliver Reginald Tambo used the occasion to call for the building of a nation - a theme adopted to push ahead with the struggle for non-racialism and a democratic South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the governing ANC's 2023 January 8 statement at the Dr Petrus Molemela stadium in Bloemfontein on Sunday. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo looks at the history of the ANC January 8 Statement since the Tambo era.
Activist and founder of the Callas Foundation, Caroline Peters, is challenging a law that prohibits publicly naming an accused charged with rape or other sexual offences before they have pleaded in court. Peters wants the relevant section of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) declared unconstitutional and invalid. She has filed her application in the Western Cape High Court against the Minister of Justice and Correctional services. Elvis Presslin spoke to Caroline Peters on what necessitated the initiative.
The Bolobedu Magistrate's court outside Tzaneen has postponed to Wednesday a case against a suspected serial rapist. The matter was postponed to allow the accused, Bonolo Seoka, to apply for legal aid representation. Seoka is facing two counts of rape and attempted murder after he was positively linked to the cases through DNA. He allegedly targeted hitch-hikers and shoppers between 2015 and 2016. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Justice Shipalana on what transpired in court.
The family of a 43-year-old woman who died after being mauled by two pit bull dogs in Vivo a farming town, in Limpopo, now wants justice. Melitah Sekole, from Ga-Makgato village, was attacked while walking from her rental place to work at Vivo on December 23rd and died at the Pietersburg Provincial Hospital last Friday. The owner of the dogs has been arrested and charged with culpable homicide. Mahlatse Phaladi reports.
A Prisoner rights activist will be approaching the South African Human Rights Commission to lodge a complaint of abuse of inmates by prison guards. The National Task Team of the Correctional Services Department has been carrying out an operation at the Boksburg prison searching for contraband, including cellphones. And in the process, some of the inmates were wounded when prison guards fired rubber bullets at them. Families of the inmates have described this as inhumane and are worried about the safety of their relatives. Tshepo Phagane has more.
Organisers of the iconic Tweede Nuwe Jaar Minstrel Parade say they have put numerous safety measures in place as the event returns to Cape Town today. The carnival has not been able to take place for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Elvis Presslin spoke to chairperson of the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association, Muneeb Gambino.
January 2nd marks a year since the devastating fire that gutted the Old Assembly and new National Assembly buildings. Zandile Mafe who remains in police custody, is accused of starting the fire. The National Assembly building remains unsafe to enter as it was totally destroyed when the fire re-ignited on the third of January after 4 PM. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent who was on the scene, recaps some of the moments and filed this report.
Political parties have vowed to intensify their efforts in holding government accountable in the year 2023. In delivering their New Year's messages, parties have called on South Africans to set their eyes on the 2024 elections. They say 2022 was marred by challenges that included load shedding, increases in food and fuel prices, gender-based violence cases and high unemployment rates among others. Zoleka Qodashe reports...
Findings from four-day work week pilot programme conducted in several countries by the organisation, 4 Day Week Global, have revealed that participating companies experienced increased revenue, while employees experienced a significant increase in health and well-being. According to the report, workers felt less stressed and burnt out and reported higher rates of life satisfaction. The pilot is expected to start in South Africa this year. Elvis Presslin spoke to Director of 4 Day Week South Africa Karen Lowe.
As the festive season draws to a close, scores of motorists are expected to hit the road, returning from their holiday destinations. Increased traffic volumes are expected with possible emergency situations. Elvis Presslin spoke to Simon Zwane , spokesperson for the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC)
Officials from the Department of Correctional Service have been conducting raids at prison facilities to ensure safety and security this festive season. In a recent raid at the Drakenstein prison officials confiscated a number of illicit substances and other illegal items such as electrical wires, cell phones, chargers and cash. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Singabakho Nxumalo, National Spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services.
Police Minister General Bheki Cele has conducted the department's Safer Festive Season campaign in Gauteng. The campaign which will run through to the end of January next year aims to mobilise maximum resources to ensure that communities feel safe and secure this festive season and beyond. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lirandzu Themba, Spokesperson for Police Minister Bheki Cele.
Missing Children South Africa says at least 23% of children who go missing are either never found, trafficked or found deceased. The organisation has teamed up with the SAPS in a call for parents and caregivers to be vigilant over the festive season. According to research done by the organisation 77% of missing children are found. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Bianca van Aswegen, National co-ordinator for Missing Children SA...
Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have arrived at four Eskom power stations in Mpumalanga. The soldiers will be deployed at the Camden, Majuba, Thuthuka and Groetvlei power stations. Their deployment follows allegations of sabotage at the stations which led to escalating levels of loadshedding. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the deployment of the SANDF at several Eskom facilities over the weekend. SABC reporter, Eric Lubisi filed this report.
Women make up over 50 percent of the ANC's 80-member National Executive Committee. The NEC has been selected from the 252 names chosen during the branch nomination process for the 55th national conference. Young people also constitute a sizable part of the governing party's highest decision-making body. The Head of ANC Electoral Committee, Kgalema Motlanthe, announced the new members in Johannesburg on Wednesday. SABC Senior Politics Reporter, Ntebo Mokobo was there and filed this report.
As the festive season gets underway many South Africans will be looking to their stokvel savings to purchase groceries, fund vacations or pay for school essentials in January. However experts say while Stokvels continue to grow in this traditional form, the stokvel industry is taking on bigger and more sophisticated investments. Stokvels remain a popular saving and investment solution estimated to be worth around 50-billion-rand. SABC reporter, Naledi Ngcobo filed this report.
With just 24-hours before the KwaZulu-Natal government's extended deadline to relocate all flood survivors expires on December 22nd, families in a community hall in Ntuzuma say they have been neglected. Initially, the government promised that they would be relocated by December 15th, but this was subsequently extended by a week. Over a hundred families are still in this community hall. SABC reporter, Fanele Mhlongo filed this report.
Victims of apartheid have been sleeping outside the Constitutional Court for a month now demanding reparations for human rights violations under apartheid. According to Dr Marjorie Jobson the victims outside court are part of a group of people who never got an opportunity to submit their statements to the TRC but qualify to receive the grant from the Presidents Fund. The fund was established in terms of the Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation Act of 1995 and is administered by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) unit within the department of justice and constitutional development. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Marjorie Jobson, National Director at Khulumani Support Group.
The Department of Social Development has launched an expert panel report on Basic Income Support Grant today. The expert panel was established as a part of an international labour organisation initiative to examine the feasibility of a Basic Income Grant option for South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brenton van Vrede, Executive Manager for grants administration at South Africa Social Security Agency
There was a hive of activity outside the Parliamentary precinct and at the City Hall in Cape Town on Tuesday ahead of debate on the report of the Section 89 Independent Panel into the Phala Phala saga. National Assembly will this afternoon vote on whether to accept the findings of the Panel Of Experts which found that President Cyril Ramaphosa may have a case to answer regarding the theft of foreign currency from his Phala Phala farm in Limpopo.
ANC members under the banner of Kgalema Disputed NEC list have filed an urgent court application in the High Court in Johannesburg, to compel the ANC to provide raw data of all branch nominations for the NEC additionals. They want the matter to be heard by the court on Wednesday. The group says should the information it seeks from the Electoral Committee not be delivered to it by the start of the ANC National Conference on the 16th, then the matter must be placed on the agenda of the National Conference to be heard by plenary before the election of officials. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior SABC reporter, Busi Chimome.
The South African Weather Service issued a yellow level 2 for rain in KwaZulu-Natal as heavy rains continued to hit parts of the country. On Thursday, Johannesburg Emergency Services called off the search for a three month old baby who got swept away during a baptism ceremony at the Jukskei River near Sandton last weekend. Fifteen bodies have since been recovered. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Meteorologist, Joel Guy
The Executive Mayor of Joahannesburg, Dr Mpho Phalatse, has made an urgent request for Eskom to suspend load shedding in the city for three days to allow for it to meet the escalating fault and outage reports being logged every hour. City's MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Michael Sun says power cuts are preventing the city from being able to effectively attend to the outages and to stabilise the situation. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo on the latest on the ground.
The Johannesburg Emergency Services says it remains on high alert as heavy downpours continue in parts of the city. Several people have been displaced in many areas following heavy floods last week. The storm uprooted trees, drenched people's homes and swept debris across parts of Joburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Johannesburg emergency services (EMS) spokesperson Nana Radebe
A small group of ANC members is threatening to take the ANC to court ahead of the party's National Elective Conference next week. The group is objecting to the list of 200 names listed for the 80 additional members of the NEC by the Electoral Committee last week, saying the Committee flouted the rules governing nominations. The group under the banner "Kgalema Disputed NEC list" is demanding the Electoral Committee release raw data of the total number of branch nominations received per candidate during the recently held branch general meetings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Busi Chimombe
Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo has lamented corruption and argues that it robs poor South Africans of decent living conditions. Speaking at the second day of the commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day at UNISA in Pretoria, Zondo zoomed in on state owned entities including Prasa. Prasa is a public entity wholly-owned by Government and reports to the Minister of Transport, however, the state entity has been a victim of corruption. In his State Capture report, Zondo recommended the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the corruption at the SOE. Zaleka Qodashe filed this report.
The Reserve Bank says load-shedding is posing a risk to the financial stability of the country. The Bank has added load-shedding as one of the main risks to the country's financial sector in its recent Financial Stability report. Nicola Brink, head of Financial Stability Department of the South African Reserve Bank, says load-shedding is a concern and is putting strain on an already weak economy. Amina Accram filed this report.
Several areas in and around Johannesburg have been flooded following heavy downpour last night and this morning. Authorities have advised residents to take necessary precautions as the rain continues to fall in the city. Affected areas include parts of Soweto and Lenasia in the south of Johannesburg. Roads have also been closed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Joburg emergency services spokesperson, Xolile Khumalo.
Researchers at Wits University have identified sulphidation as one of the huge contributors to some of the break-downs at Eskom which ultimately lead to loadshedding. Sulphadation is a chemical process that degrades steel through the formation of brittle compounds of iron and sulphur. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Wits School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Professor Josias Van Der Werwe.
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan says the stage six rolling blackouts that Eskom has implemented are totally unacceptable and he's directed management and the Eskom board to meet and act with a great sense of urgency to end stage six. Gordhan says stage six is having a devastating impact on households, business and the entire economy. The minister says in a statement that the frequency of rolling blackouts is to some extent attributable to malfunctioning within Eskom's systems as well as sabotage. Gordhan has appealed to law enforcement agencies to have a stronger presence at power stations across the country. Meanwhile... Britain's secretary of State, Michael Gove has approved the first new UK coal mine in 30 years despite concerns about its climate impacts among Conservative MPs and experts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to energy expert, Ted Blom and SABC UK correspondent, Laura Isherwood
Today's update from the markets including reactions to recent political uncertainty, GDP print released yesterday and Raytheon Technologies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ricardo Smith, Chief Investment Officer at Absa Global Investment Solutions, Stockbrokers & Portfolio Management
Civil Society coalition group #UniteBehind says Parliament has ignored its complaints against six Members of parliament which include transport minister Fikile Mbalula. The group alleges that these MP's are implicated in state capture and corruption at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). The coalition first laid a formal complaint in August 2022 to Parliament's Joint Committee on Ethics and Members' Interests, referring to article 10 of Parliament's Code of Conduct. Legal Officer for #UniteBehind, Joseph Mayson spoke to sakina Kamwendo
Power utility, Eskom will be implementing stage 6 loadshedding from 12:00 until further notice. Eskom says this is due to a high number of breakdowns since midnight. Meanwhile , Eskom had warned South Africans to brace themselves for prolonged load shedding as the power utility is implementing major capital projects and repairs. According to Eskom this work carries significant risk and will serve to further increase the implementation of load shedding. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha and Lungile Mashele, an independent energy economist
Statistics South Africa released the gross domestic product figure for the third quarter. The results show that after contracting by 0,7% in the second quarter of 2022, the economy rallied in the third quarter, showing the economy grew by 1,6 percent . Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hugo Pienaar, Chief Economist: Bureau for Economic Research
The Economic Freedom Fighters held a press briefing to state its position on the latest developments regarding president Cyril Ramaphosa, among other issues. The EFF has welcomed the independent panel report. Meanwhile, EFF says the year 2023 will be characterised by a massive political education campaign and voter registration.. Listen to leader of EFF, Julius Malema
President Cyril Ramaphosa will face the toughest moment of his ANC presidency at the special NEC scheduled for today. The party's highest decision-making body is set to discuss matters relating to the recently released Section 89 report on President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm.. The Independent panel of experts led by former a Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, found that the president may have violated his oath of office in the 2020 robbery at his Phala Phala farm. SABC reporter, Samkele Maseko spoke to ANC Chairperson, Gwede Mantashe about how the president is likely to handle the scandal
Religious leaders are also weighing-in on the recent challenges plaguing the ruling ANC with Anglican Archbishop, Thabo Makgoba calling for a government of national unity if President Cyril Ramaphosa were to resign. This as the country awaits the outcome of the party's NEC meeting following the damning Section 89 panel report which found that the president may have a case to answer regarding the theft incident at his Phala Phala Game Farm. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo, Makgoba says while the ANC remains at war with itself...South Africans await to be served.
President Cyril Ramaphosa faces the threat of possible removal from office, after the Parliamentary Section 89 Panel of Independent Experts found that he has a case to answer and that he may have violated his oath of office. The panel says any moves to impeach Ramaphosa must be based on solid evidence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Asanda Ngoasheng
Government has implemented a six-month ban on the export of copper and other scrap metals. The ban is an effort to clamp down on the illegal trade of the scrap metals, as well as to curb vandalism of public infrastructure and cable theft. Speaking to members of the media on Wednesday, Minister of trade, industry and competition, Ebrahim Patel said copper and scrap metal theft at the country's SOEs robs the economy of about R47-billion annually. The six-month ban will be regulated through a permit system administered by the International Trade Administration Commission. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Stephen Hanival.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is under pressure after the release of the Section 89 Independent Panel report yesterday. Various political parties are calling for the president's resignation after the report found Ramaphosa had a prima facie case to answer. The panel, led by former Chief Justice, Sandile Ngcobo, found that there were discrepancies in the President's account of the events that took place on his Phala Phala farm in 2020. SABC reporter Natasha Phiri spoke to ANC Spokesperson, Pule Mabe
The South African Communist Party together with its alliance partners, has marched to the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Facility in Pretoria, in protest against the imminent release of Janusz Walus. The party has also launched a rescission application against the Constitutional Court judgment which ordered that Walus, the killer of SACP leader, Chris Hani, be released on parole. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
The independent panel investigating President Cyril Ramaphosa's handling of the robbery at his Phala Phala farm in 2020 has officially handed over its report today to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. SABC Parliamentary reporter Abra Barbier caught up with various political parties for their reactions
Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula accepted the final report on investigations into President Cyril Ramaphosa's handling of the robbery at his Phala Phala farm in 2020. The panel, headed by former chief justice Sandile Ngcobo, was tasked to investigate whether there is prima facie evidence that Ramaphosa had violated his oath of office during and following the robbery at his private farm in Limpopo. Mapisa explains the process to be followed going forward
The independent panel investigating President Cyril Ramaphosa's handling of the robbery at his Phala Phala farm in 2020 has officially handed over its report on the to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula. The panel, headed by former chief justice Sandile Ngcobo, was tasked to investigate whether there is prima facie evidence that Ramaphosa had violated his oath of office during and following the robbery at his private farm Phala Phala in Limpopo. The panel was established to determine whether Ramaphosa will be subjected to a process that could lead to his removal from office. This is what retired Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo had to say in handing over the report
he ANC's Acting Secretary-General, Paul Mashatile, says the party will have a special meeting of top officials this week as the report surrounding President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Phala Phala farm is finalised. The Section 89 panel is expected to hand the report to National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa- Nqakula on tomorrow. The independent parliamentary panel was tasked with investigating whether the President should face an impeachment inquiry after a complaint by the African Transformation Movement (ATM) over Ramaphosa's alleged concealment of the theft of a large sum in foreign currency from his Limpopo farm two years ago. Mashatile says the ANC's top officials will look into the findings of the report. He was speaking to the SABC in an exclusive interview yesterday* (monday 28 November). Zoleka Qodashe reports...
Protests against China's strict zero-COVID policy and restrictions on freedoms have spread to at least a dozen cities around the world in a show of solidarity with rare displays of defiance in China over the weekend. Meanwhile, a South African laboratory study using Covid-19 samples from an immunosuppressed individual over six months has shown that the virus evolved to become more pathogenic. Experts say this means the new variant could cause more illness than the current predominant omicron strain. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Alex Sigal, from the Africa Health Research Institute
Members of Parliament in the Section 194 inquiry into Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office are deliberating about the application for the removal of the evidence leaders, advocate Nazreen Bawa and Ncumisa Mayosi. Advocate Mkhwebane's legal team accuses the pair of being biased against her. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter on this story, Abongwe Khobokane
The Azanian's People's Organisation (AZAPO) has opened a case of crimen injuria and incitement of violence against alleged racist Belinda Magor. She is expected to appear in court in March next year after she was released on warning for allegedly calling black people rapists, thieves, and calling for them to be banned and killed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy President of Azapo, Kekeletso Khena
The Azanian's People's Organisation (AZAPO) has opened a case of crimen injuria and incitement of violence against alleged racist Belinda Magor. She is expected to appear in court in March next year after she was released on warning for allegedly calling black people rapists, thieves, and calling for them to be banned and killed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy President of Azapo, Kekeletso Khena
Suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane wants the two evidence leaders in the Section 194 hearings, Nazreen Bawa and Ncumisa Mayosi to be removed. Mkhwebane, through her legal counsel Dali Mpfu, says the main ground for her application is the disclosure of fees by the evidence leaders, paid to certain advocates. This is the second application for the recusal of the evidence leaders. The first was brought by UDM leader Bantu Holomisa, last month. Mkhwebane's legal team says they do not believe that she will receive a fair hearing if the current evidence leaders continue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Bulelani Phillip
Suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane wants the two evidence leaders in the Section 194 hearings, Nazreen Bawa and Ncumisa Mayosi to be removed. Mkhwebane, through her legal counsel Dali Mpfu, says the main ground for her application is the disclosure of fees by the evidence leaders, paid to certain advocates. This is the second application for the recusal of the evidence leaders. The first was brought by UDM leader Bantu Holomisa, last month. Mkhwebane's legal team says they do not believe that she will receive a fair hearing if the current evidence leaders continue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Bulelani Phillip
Murder convict, Nthuthuko Shoba has been denied leave to appeal his life sentence for orchestrating the murder of his pregnant girlfriend Tshegofatso Pule. Pule was eight-months pregnant when she was killed by Muzikayise Malepane - a man hired by Shoba. Shoba'ss defence lawyer believes a higher court could come to a different conclusion about some facts. Hitman Muzikayise Malepane's testimony formed part of crucial state evidence against Shoba during the trial. Acting Judge at the Johannesburg high Court, Judge Stuart Wilson had this to say when handing down judgement...
Murder convict, Nthuthuko Shoba has been denied leave to appeal his life sentence for orchestrating the murder of his pregnant girlfriend Tshegofatso Pule. Pule was eight-months pregnant when she was killed by Muzikayise Malepane - a man hired by Shoba. Shoba'ss defence lawyer believes a higher court could come to a different conclusion about some facts. Hitman Muzikayise Malepane's testimony formed part of crucial state evidence against Shoba during the trial. Acting Judge at the Johannesburg high Court, Judge Stuart Wilson had this to say when handing down judgement...
An East London Pitbull owner, Noeleen Fourie has shared details of how her dog mauled and killed a one year old infant. The incident happened on Wednesday in the surburb of Cambridge where, the infant was rushed to the local hospital for medical assistance but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. SABC reporter in East London, Abongile Jantjies spoke to Fourie and SPCA's General Manager in East London
Consumer price inflation picked up slightly in October, rising to 7,6% from 7,5% in September. The monthly increase in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,4%, up from 0,1%. The main contributors to the 7,6% annual inflation rate were food and non-alcoholic beverages; housing and utilities; transport; and miscellaneous goods and services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Annabelle Bishop, Chief Economits at Investec
Government is urgently seeking funds to buy diesel needed to fuel some of Eskom's power plants. This comes after Eskom announced that outages will intensify this week. Eskom has run out of diesel and it's reported it may not be replenished until the 1st April next year. Load shedding will be pushed to stage 4 today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to energy analyst Chris Yelland.
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial resumed at the Pretoria High Court today. The trial has been postponed until next year. This is due to new legal council introduced to the court today to represent accused number 1 and 2 in the murder trial. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, reporter Chriselda Lewis live from the Pretoria High Court
The Correctional Services Department says it is still studying the judgment of the Supreme of Appeal in Bloemfontein in the former president Jacob Zuma's medical parole appeal case. The SCA has upheld the High Court order which declared Zuma's release on medical parole unlawful, he'll not serve his remaining sentence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to News24 legal journalist Karyn Maughan
EFF MP Mbuyiseli Ndlozi's prediction that President Cyril Ramaphosa must be the first president whom the new National Assembly Rule 129 must be tested on, has become a reality. Ndlozi made this in November 2018 during the debate on the adoption of the rule by the Assembly. Rule 129 outlines the processes to be followed when a National Assembly Member tables a motion for the removal of a President from office in terms of Section 89 of the Constitution. The rule was developed following successful Constitutional Court challenge by the EFF in December 2017. The EFF was joined by the UDM, COPE and the DA. They wanted the assembly to hold former President Jacob Zuma accountable for violating the constitution in relations to his failure to implement the Public Protector's remedial action into the Nkandla security upgrades. Mercedes Besent looks back at how Ndlozi ended up being kicked out of the chamber by House Chairperson Mmatlala Boroto, for refusing to withdraw his comments that Rule 129 must be tested on Ramaphosa. She sent us this snippet.
It still remains unclear when South Africa intends on forging ahead with the proposed legislation that seeks to introduce strict new anti-smoking rules and regulation. According to the new Tobacco Products and Electronics Delivery Systems Control Bill that is before parliament, anyone or business that sells cigarettes to a minor can be fined or sentenced to up to 15 years in prison. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tobacco Control manager at the health department, Lorato Mahura.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled against the defence questioning state witness, Tumelo Madlala on docket 375 in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial. The court says the docket has no status. The docket implicates Madlala and Meyiwa's former girlfriend Kelly Khumalo among others who were in the house when Meyiwa was shot and killed in 2014. The NPA said the decision to prosecute in that case will only be determined after the current trial. State prosecutor Advocate George Baloyi objected to the defence asking Madlala to comment on the controversial docket. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni
The country three main Labour Federations, namely COSATU, FEDUSA and SAFTU have forged unity and waged war on government over the ongoing impasse over the rejected three percent pay offer for public service unions. The three unions have resolved to embark on a National Day of Action on the 22nd of November where workers will down tools with the main event being a march to the office on the National Treasury in Pretoria. The federatrions, including their affiliates say they will also target schools, ports and government institutions amongst other locations. Denosa president, Simon Hlungwani explains...
National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has extended the deadline of the Section 89 Independent Panel of Experts by 13 days. The announcement of the extension comes a day before the panel had to conclude its assessment and report back to the Speaker. The panel report was initially expected to be submitted to the Speaker by Thursday. The panel will now only report back to the Speaker by the 30 November. The panel has been assessing the information that the ATM, EFF and UDM have provided, as well as President Cyril Ramaphosa's submission. This follows the the alleged theft of millions of US Dollars from Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm in Limpopo nearly three years ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mercedes Bessent.
Gidon Novick has resigned as the CEO and board member of Takatso Consortium that plans to buy 51% of SAA. Novick says he was frustrated by the lack of transparency regarding the progress of the transaction. But other consortium shareholders have accused him of a potential conflict of interest. It's been almost two years since the Department of Public Enterprises, announced Takatso as the equity partner. As part of the deal, Takatso are meant to commit at least R3bn towards the relaunch of SAA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Independent analyst , Khaya Sithole
Gidon Novick has resigned as the CEO and board member of Takatso Consortium that plans to buy 51% of SAA. Novick says he was frustrated by the lack of transparency regarding the progress of the transaction. But other consortium shareholders have accused him of a potential conflict of interest. It's been almost two years since the Department of Public Enterprises, announced Takatso as the equity partner. As part of the deal, Takatso are meant to commit at least R3bn towards the relaunch of SAA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Independent analyst , Khaya Sithole
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has announced that the month of September 2022 recorded more loadshedding than the whole of the year 2020. This was revealed through CSIR's annual statistics on power generation in South Africa. CSIR's Senior Researcher, Monique Le Roux however adds that this year has been the most intensive loadshedding year to date, concentrated in both the months of July and September. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Yazi Founder, Tim Treagus and CSIR's Senior Researcher, Monique Le Roux
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has announced that the month of September 2022 recorded more loadshedding than the whole of the year 2020. This was revealed through CSIR's annual statistics on power generation in South Africa. CSIR's Senior Researcher, Monique Le Roux however adds that this year has been the most intensive loadshedding year to date, concentrated in both the months of July and September. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Yazi Founder, Tim Treagus and CSIR's Senior Researcher, Monique Le Roux
The family of eight-year old Olebogeng Mosime of Vista Park in Bloemfontein is still devastated following his gruesome death. Mosime was mauled to death by a neighbour's pitbull on Saturday. The pitbull escaped from its enclosure and forced itself through the fence into the deceased yard. Last month, an online petition started making rounds on social media, calling for the breed to be banned as a domestic pet. Kamogelo Seekoei reports...
The family of eight-year old Olebogeng Mosime of Vista Park in Bloemfontein is still devastated following his gruesome death. Mosime was mauled to death by a neighbour's pitbull on Saturday. The pitbull escaped from its enclosure and forced itself through the fence into the deceased yard. Last month, an online petition started making rounds on social media, calling for the breed to be banned as a domestic pet. Kamogelo Seekoei reports...
An online petition organised by the Sizwe Kupelo Foundation has now received over 500-thousand signitures that are in support of the ban of pitbulls. The Foundation's spokesperson, Sizwe Kupelo says these dogs should be removed from society as a matter of urgency. This follows the mauling to death of eight-year old Olebogeng Mosime of Vista Park in Bloemfontein.
An online petition organised by the Sizwe Kupelo Foundation has now received over 500-thousand signitures that are in support of the ban of pitbulls. The Foundation's spokesperson, Sizwe Kupelo says these dogs should be removed from society as a matter of urgency. This follows the mauling to death of eight-year old Olebogeng Mosime of Vista Park in Bloemfontein.
The Water and Sanitation Department says the incessant rainfall over the weekend has resulted in some dams levels reaching full capacity forcing the department to open sluice gates. The disruptive rainfall in various parts of the country led to incidents of flooding being reported with more than 300 people forced to shelter at a community hall after their homes were flooded in Soweto. Emergency Services personnel says they will continue to monitor flash floods hotspots as more rainfall is predicted. Tshepo Phagane reports....
The Water and Sanitation Department says the incessant rainfall over the weekend has resulted in some dams levels reaching full capacity forcing the department to open sluice gates. The disruptive rainfall in various parts of the country led to incidents of flooding being reported with more than 300 people forced to shelter at a community hall after their homes were flooded in Soweto. Emergency Services personnel says they will continue to monitor flash floods hotspots as more rainfall is predicted. Tshepo Phagane reports....
There continues to be uproar over Sanral's decision of awarding multi-billion rand construction projects to Chinese Firms. The South African Institute of Civil Engineering has written an open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa questioning the awarding of the tenders to foreign companies over local firms. Sanral has however come out to support its decision noting that it followed all legal processes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to president of the South African Institute of Civil Engineering, Mariane Vanderschuren...
There continues to be uproar over Sanral's decision of awarding multi-billion rand construction projects to Chinese Firms. The South African Institute of Civil Engineering has written an open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa questioning the awarding of the tenders to foreign companies over local firms. Sanral has however come out to support its decision noting that it followed all legal processes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to president of the South African Institute of Civil Engineering, Mariane Vanderschuren...
The Alternative Information and Development Centre says less than three percent of the $8.5-Billion climate finance deal offered to South Africa comes in the form of grants. Senior economist at the Centre, Dick Forslund says the rest takes the form of concessional loans, commercial loans and investment guarantees. Forslung adds that what these secretive foreign loans will lead to great indebtedness and hardship for the country in the long run. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The Alternative Information and Development Centre says less than three percent of the $8.5-Billion climate finance deal offered to South Africa comes in the form of grants. Senior economist at the Centre, Dick Forslund says the rest takes the form of concessional loans, commercial loans and investment guarantees. Forslung adds that what these secretive foreign loans will lead to great indebtedness and hardship for the country in the long run. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Police Minister Bheki Cele has told Parliament that the South African Police Service (SAPS) can't meet the country's policing demands. Parliament's Police Committee has called on SAPS management to work hard at restoring the public's confidence in police. This follows a briefing by police management on a Western Cape High Court judgment that found that the provincial police have been infiltrated by gangsters. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eldred De Klerk, Senior Associate with the African Centre for Security and Intelligence Praxis
Police Minister Bheki Cele has told Parliament that the South African Police Service (SAPS) can't meet the country's policing demands. Parliament's Police Committee has called on SAPS management to work hard at restoring the public's confidence in police. This follows a briefing by police management on a Western Cape High Court judgment that found that the provincial police have been infiltrated by gangsters. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eldred De Klerk, Senior Associate with the African Centre for Security and Intelligence Praxis
The latest firearms report by Gun Free South Africa shows that 30 people are killed with guns in South Africa daily. According to the report gun violence is the leading cause of murder in the country. The organisation says in a year about 9 855 guns are reported lost or stolen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Claire Taylor, Researcher at Gun Free South Africa
The latest firearms report by Gun Free South Africa shows that 30 people are killed with guns in South Africa daily. According to the report gun violence is the leading cause of murder in the country. The organisation says in a year about 9 855 guns are reported lost or stolen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Claire Taylor, Researcher at Gun Free South Africa
A 32-year-old woman arrested for allegedly murdering her four children in Engcobo is expected to appear at the Engcobo Magistrates Court in the Eastern Cape today. According to police the children who are between the ages of two and 11 were found bludgeoned to death in a rondavel they shared with their mother. Police allege that the children had been assaulted by their own mother with a slash hammer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Thembinkosi Kinana
A 32-year-old woman arrested for allegedly murdering her four children in Engcobo is expected to appear at the Engcobo Magistrates Court in the Eastern Cape today. According to police the children who are between the ages of two and 11 were found bludgeoned to death in a rondavel they shared with their mother. Police allege that the children had been assaulted by their own mother with a slash hammer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Thembinkosi Kinana
The Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA) says it is in solidarity with the thousands of workers from the Public Servants Association that have down tools across the country today. Dressed in red T-shirts written 'public servants are bleeding, PSA members have been out on the streets decrying government's unilateral decision to increase salaries by a mere three percent. They have vowed stretch the industrial right into the festive season if government does not come back to the negotiating table. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to PSA coordinator, Jannie Osthehuizen
The Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA) says it is in solidarity with the thousands of workers from the Public Servants Association that have down tools across the country today. Dressed in red T-shirts written 'public servants are bleeding, PSA members have been out on the streets decrying government's unilateral decision to increase salaries by a mere three percent. They have vowed stretch the industrial right into the festive season if government does not come back to the negotiating table. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to PSA coordinator, Jannie Osthehuizen
South African Police Service and Boarder Management Control guards have been deployed to temporarily assist at the Immigration Services of the Beitbridge Border Post in Musina in Limpopo. This comes as public service employees affiliated to the Public Servants Association downed tools on Thursday following the collapse of wage talks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi.
South African Police Service and Boarder Management Control guards have been deployed to temporarily assist at the Immigration Services of the Beitbridge Border Post in Musina in Limpopo. This comes as public service employees affiliated to the Public Servants Association downed tools on Thursday following the collapse of wage talks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi.
The trial of former Intelligence Minister, Bongani Bongo and his 11 co-accused has been postponed to next week Wednesday by the Nelspruit Commercial Crimes Court in Mpumalanga. Bongo and the accused made a brief appearance earlier this morning as they are facing 69 charges that include fraud, theft, and corruption amongst others. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Motsebi Monareng...
The trial of former Intelligence Minister, Bongani Bongo and his 11 co-accused has been postponed to next week Wednesday by the Nelspruit Commercial Crimes Court in Mpumalanga. Bongo and the accused made a brief appearance earlier this morning as they are facing 69 charges that include fraud, theft, and corruption amongst others. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Motsebi Monareng...
The EFF in Ekurhuleni has withdrawn their Mayoral candidate, leaving the ousted DA councillor Thania Campbell facing the ANC's Jongizizwe Dlabathi. Campbell was ousted as Ekurhuleni Mayor following a motion of no confidence over a week ago. A special council sitting is underway in Germiston to elect the new Ekurhuleni mayor. Following the EFF's withdrawal, the ANC has called for an emergency caucus. Action SA Chairperson Bongani Baloyi says they are for Tanbia Campbell returning back as Mayor. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Ekurhuleni, Horisani Sithole
The EFF in Ekurhuleni has withdrawn their Mayoral candidate, leaving the ousted DA councillor Thania Campbell facing the ANC's Jongizizwe Dlabathi. Campbell was ousted as Ekurhuleni Mayor following a motion of no confidence over a week ago. A special council sitting is underway in Germiston to elect the new Ekurhuleni mayor. Following the EFF's withdrawal, the ANC has called for an emergency caucus. Action SA Chairperson Bongani Baloyi says they are for Tanbia Campbell returning back as Mayor. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Ekurhuleni, Horisani Sithole
Branches of the African National Congress have until the end of today to submit their nominations for the party's top six officials. The nomination window was extended to today as some branches were yet to have their meetings across the country. ANC national Chairperson, Gwede Mantashe says the party has now reached the 70% threshold for branches to hold their meetings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Abongile Dumako
Branches of the African National Congress have until the end of today to submit their nominations for the party's top six officials. The nomination window was extended to today as some branches were yet to have their meetings across the country. ANC national Chairperson, Gwede Mantashe says the party has now reached the 70% threshold for branches to hold their meetings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Abongile Dumako
President CyriI Ramaphosa has denied that he has violated his oath of office. Ramaphosa who is currently in Sharm el Sheik, Egypt attending the COP27 Climate Conference has met the deadline of responding to all the information submitted by some National Assembly Members. He was given ten days from the 28 October until Sunday to respond to all the submitted information. The panel is tasked to assess an ATM draft motion calling for Ramaphosa's removal from office in terms of Section 89 of the Constitution. This follows the alleged theft of millions of US Dollars at his farm in Phala Phlala in Limpopo more than two years ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary correspondent Mercedes Besent
President CyriI Ramaphosa has denied that he has violated his oath of office. Ramaphosa who is currently in Sharm el Sheik, Egypt attending the COP27 Climate Conference has met the deadline of responding to all the information submitted by some National Assembly Members. He was given ten days from the 28 October until Sunday to respond to all the submitted information. The panel is tasked to assess an ATM draft motion calling for Ramaphosa's removal from office in terms of Section 89 of the Constitution. This follows the alleged theft of millions of US Dollars at his farm in Phala Phlala in Limpopo more than two years ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary correspondent Mercedes Besent
The driver of the truck which caused the horror crash on the N-3 of near the Marainnhill toll plaza on Tuesday is back in the Pinetown Magistrates court today. Vuso Tega faces two culpabable homocide charges and negligent driving. The run-away truck couldn't stop, drove uncontrollably to cause a pile up of 15 vehicles resulting to the death of three people, with five others sustaining serious injuries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Khalesakhe Mbhense
The driver of the truck which caused the horror crash on the N-3 of near the Marainnhill toll plaza on Tuesday is back in the Pinetown Magistrates court today. Vuso Tega faces two culpabable homocide charges and negligent driving. The run-away truck couldn't stop, drove uncontrollably to cause a pile up of 15 vehicles resulting to the death of three people, with five others sustaining serious injuries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Khalesakhe Mbhense
Water and Sanitation, Deputy MInister David Mahlobo is expected to shortly open a criminal case against the Jagersfontein Development Mine. This follows the disaster in Jagersfontein where the slimes dam wall collapsed causing pollution to the environment, local properties and houses including water resources. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo..
Water and Sanitation, Deputy MInister David Mahlobo is expected to shortly open a criminal case against the Jagersfontein Development Mine. This follows the disaster in Jagersfontein where the slimes dam wall collapsed causing pollution to the environment, local properties and houses including water resources. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo..
Police have launched a manhunt after three inmates have escaped from holding cells at the Tshamutumbu police station outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo. Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant colonel Mamphaswa Seabi has warned community members not to confront the prisoners, as they are considered to be dangerous, but to rather contact the nearest police station. One of the escapee 45 year-old Caiphus Kwinda was sentenced to life imprisonment for rape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lieutenant colonel Mamphaswa Seabi
Police have launched a manhunt after three inmates have escaped from holding cells at the Tshamutumbu police station outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo. Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant colonel Mamphaswa Seabi has warned community members not to confront the prisoners, as they are considered to be dangerous, but to rather contact the nearest police station. One of the escapee 45 year-old Caiphus Kwinda was sentenced to life imprisonment for rape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lieutenant colonel Mamphaswa Seabi
The second Presidential Summit on Gender Based Violence and Femicide starts today in Midrand. The summit was in response to the 24 demands submitted by the #TheTotalShutdown Intersectional Women's Movement to President Cyril Ramaphosa following 27 nationwide marches on 1 August 2018. Organisations that are at the frontline of the battle against Gender Based Violence and Femicide, say the first presidential summit that was held in a bid to dent the scourge, has failed to make a difference. They hope that the second summit will deliver reforms that will compel the criminal justice system to prioritise justice for victims. This as many victims still claim that they are being failed by the police and the judiciary. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mandisa Khanyile of Rise Up against gender based violence
The second Presidential Summit on Gender Based Violence and Femicide starts today in Midrand. The summit was in response to the 24 demands submitted by the #TheTotalShutdown Intersectional Women's Movement to President Cyril Ramaphosa following 27 nationwide marches on 1 August 2018. Organisations that are at the frontline of the battle against Gender Based Violence and Femicide, say the first presidential summit that was held in a bid to dent the scourge, has failed to make a difference. They hope that the second summit will deliver reforms that will compel the criminal justice system to prioritise justice for victims. This as many victims still claim that they are being failed by the police and the judiciary. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mandisa Khanyile of Rise Up against gender based violence
The second Presidential Summit on Gender Based Violence and Femicide starts today in Midrand. The summit was in response to the 24 demands submitted by the #TheTotalShutdown Intersectional Women's Movement to President Cyril Ramaphosa following 27 nationwide marches on 1 August 2018. The movement protested against the country's pervasive scourge of gender-based violence and femicide and offered the 24 demands as a solution. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Joyce Maluleke, Director General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities and Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola
The second Presidential Summit on Gender Based Violence and Femicide starts today in Midrand. The summit was in response to the 24 demands submitted by the #TheTotalShutdown Intersectional Women's Movement to President Cyril Ramaphosa following 27 nationwide marches on 1 August 2018. The movement protested against the country's pervasive scourge of gender-based violence and femicide and offered the 24 demands as a solution. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Joyce Maluleke, Director General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities and Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola
The Film and Publication Board has issued a legal notice on South Africa's Internet service providers demanding that they comply with amendments to the Film and Publications Act. The legal notices require these service providers to report on measures they have taken to tackle the spreading of child sexual abuse material and 'other online harms' on their platforms and services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting regulatory development and enforcement executive at the Film and Publication Board, Pandelis Gregoriou on a brief summary of these amendments
The Film and Publication Board has issued a legal notice on South Africa's Internet service providers demanding that they comply with amendments to the Film and Publications Act. The legal notices require these service providers to report on measures they have taken to tackle the spreading of child sexual abuse material and 'other online harms' on their platforms and services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting regulatory development and enforcement executive at the Film and Publication Board, Pandelis Gregoriou on a brief summary of these amendments
The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Chairperson, Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, says this year alone, numerous life sentences were handed down for crimes committed against women and children. Nkoana-Mashabane was briefing the media on the eve of the Second Presidential GBVF Summit which takes place tomorrow and Wednesday, at Gallagher Estate, Midrand. She says government has made great strides to Gazette the National Council on Gender Based Violence and Femicide.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Chairperson, Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, says this year alone, numerous life sentences were handed down for crimes committed against women and children. Nkoana-Mashabane was briefing the media on the eve of the Second Presidential GBVF Summit which takes place tomorrow and Wednesday, at Gallagher Estate, Midrand. She says government has made great strides to Gazette the National Council on Gender Based Violence and Femicide.
Earlier this month , the Pretoria High Court ordered the city of Tshwane to refund thousands of ratepayers monies owed to them after the city charged higher tariffs and increased bills without notification. A group of residents won their fight to be refunded unlawfully charged property rates dating back to 2011. Some owners say they were shocked in September of 2012 when their monthly rates bills increased by about 700%. The court order comes as the metro is battling a severe liquidity crisis. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lex Middelberg , founder and representative of the Republican Conference of Tshwane on the organisation's reaction to the court order
Earlier this month , the Pretoria High Court ordered the city of Tshwane to refund thousands of ratepayers monies owed to them after the city charged higher tariffs and increased bills without notification. A group of residents won their fight to be refunded unlawfully charged property rates dating back to 2011. Some owners say they were shocked in September of 2012 when their monthly rates bills increased by about 700%. The court order comes as the metro is battling a severe liquidity crisis. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lex Middelberg , founder and representative of the Republican Conference of Tshwane on the organisation's reaction to the court order
First Deputy President of COSATU, Mike Shingane says they cannot rule out the possibility of embarking on a full blown strike action in the coming future. He was speaking to our colleague and reporter Katlego Legodi just outside the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council...
First Deputy President of COSATU, Mike Shingane says they cannot rule out the possibility of embarking on a full blown strike action in the coming future. He was speaking to our colleague and reporter Katlego Legodi just outside the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council...
Tensions between Public Service Unions and government continue to rise as unions embark on countrywide mass pickets. The unions are demonstrating their frustration at government's unilateral decision to offer workers a 3 percent salary increase. This follows the collapse of wage negotiations last week as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana stuck to his guns in his Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement stating that government's current offer is in the best interest of both the fiscus and workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni and began by asking if the workers came out in their numbers to picket
Tensions between Public Service Unions and government continue to rise as unions embark on countrywide mass pickets. The unions are demonstrating their frustration at government's unilateral decision to offer workers a 3 percent salary increase. This follows the collapse of wage negotiations last week as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana stuck to his guns in his Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement stating that government's current offer is in the best interest of both the fiscus and workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni and began by asking if the workers came out in their numbers to picket
There are about more than 1 million prisoners accross the african continent allegedly living under inhumane, cruel and degrading conditions. Various African law and justice leaders and human rights organizations accross the continent believe that it is time to rethink crimes law and incarceration on the african continent. The various african leaders converged in Sandton this week to discuss possible solutions faced in the correctional and justice system on the continent. Deputy Minister of Justice, John Jeffrey says the criminal justice system favours the rich, and this is evident if one looks at which people are in prisons; the poor - Jeffrey says we are NOT all equal before the law. Malawian Constitutional Court Judge, Kenan Manda agrees that in african prisons there are no affluent people.
There are about more than 1 million prisoners accross the african continent allegedly living under inhumane, cruel and degrading conditions. Various African law and justice leaders and human rights organizations accross the continent believe that it is time to rethink crimes law and incarceration on the african continent. The various african leaders converged in Sandton this week to discuss possible solutions faced in the correctional and justice system on the continent. Deputy Minister of Justice, John Jeffrey says the criminal justice system favours the rich, and this is evident if one looks at which people are in prisons; the poor - Jeffrey says we are NOT all equal before the law. Malawian Constitutional Court Judge, Kenan Manda agrees that in african prisons there are no affluent people.
Immigration Firm, Fragomen says in dealing with the country's immigration challenges, South Africa needs to strictly enforce the current labour and immigration laws. This comes as the country battles to deal with undocumented foreign nationals that flood the country seeking better economic opportunities. Fragomen's Senior Manager for Government Strategy and Corporate compliance, Johannes Tiba e.laborates...
Immigration Firm, Fragomen says in dealing with the country's immigration challenges, South Africa needs to strictly enforce the current labour and immigration laws. This comes as the country battles to deal with undocumented foreign nationals that flood the country seeking better economic opportunities. Fragomen's Senior Manager for Government Strategy and Corporate compliance, Johannes Tiba e.laborates...
INTRO: Police Minister Genenal Bheki Cele has told the South African Police Service deployed to Durban that they must enforce the law while protecting the Presidential Handover of the Certificate of Recognition to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini hosted in Moses Mabhida. Cele was speaking at the Peoples Park in Durban. Cele says officers must consider all their actions and how they'll impact their performance tomorrow
INTRO: Police Minister Genenal Bheki Cele has told the South African Police Service deployed to Durban that they must enforce the law while protecting the Presidential Handover of the Certificate of Recognition to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini hosted in Moses Mabhida. Cele was speaking at the Peoples Park in Durban. Cele says officers must consider all their actions and how they'll impact their performance tomorrow
The case against 20-year-old man accused of the murder of a woman believed to be a sex worker - postponed to 31 October for a formal bail application. Sifiso Mkwanazi made a brief appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrate Court on Tuesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane
The case against 20-year-old man accused of the murder of a woman believed to be a sex worker - postponed to 31 October for a formal bail application. Sifiso Mkwanazi made a brief appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrate Court on Tuesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane
The High Court in Johannesburg has declared Dr Mpho Phalatse as the executive mayor of the City of Johannesburg. Phalatse was ousted as the city's mayor during a motion of no confidence vote last month. The ANC's Dada Morero was subsequently elected as mayor. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Phalatse on what her victory means for the city moving forward.
The High Court in Johannesburg has declared Dr Mpho Phalatse as the executive mayor of the City of Johannesburg. Phalatse was ousted as the city's mayor during a motion of no confidence vote last month. The ANC's Dada Morero was subsequently elected as mayor. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Phalatse on what her victory means for the city moving forward.
The High Court in Johannesburg has ruled that the removal of former City of Johannesburg Mayor Dr Mpho Phalatse and the subsequent election of current Mayor, Dada Morero was unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid. Phalatse had approached the court arguing that the Programming Committee that met on the 29th of September to decide on the Agenda of the Extraordinary council meeting of the next day where she was ousted - did not form a quorum. She further argued that the decision by the same committee to place the motion of no confidence vote on the agenda was therefore unlawful. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Tshepo Phagane and Political Analyst, Dr Ongama Mtimka
The High Court in Johannesburg has ruled that the removal of former City of Johannesburg Mayor Dr Mpho Phalatse and the subsequent election of current Mayor, Dada Morero was unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid. Phalatse had approached the court arguing that the Programming Committee that met on the 29th of September to decide on the Agenda of the Extraordinary council meeting of the next day where she was ousted - did not form a quorum. She further argued that the decision by the same committee to place the motion of no confidence vote on the agenda was therefore unlawful. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Tshepo Phagane and Political Analyst, Dr Ongama Mtimka
The case against a man accused of the murder of four-year-old Bokgabo Poo has been postponed in Benoni Magistrate's Court, East of Johannesburg. 30 year-old Ntokozo Zikhali is facing charges of murder, rape, kidnapping, and violation of a corpse. During his initial court appearance Zikhali was nearly attacked by Bokgabo's father Irvin Ndlovu but police subdued him. This forced the abrupt adjournment of the court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter Tshepo Phagane
The case against a man accused of the murder of four-year-old Bokgabo Poo has been postponed in Benoni Magistrate's Court, East of Johannesburg. 30 year-old Ntokozo Zikhali is facing charges of murder, rape, kidnapping, and violation of a corpse. During his initial court appearance Zikhali was nearly attacked by Bokgabo's father Irvin Ndlovu but police subdued him. This forced the abrupt adjournment of the court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter Tshepo Phagane
Judgment is expected in the High Court in Cape Town today in the murder of eight-year-old Tazné van Wyk. The accused, 54-year-old Moyhdian Pangkaeker, was arrested in February 2020 following Tazne's disappearance near her home in Elsies River a few days earlier. The girl's body was found in a storm water pipe outside Worcester. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Atule Joka
Judgment is expected in the High Court in Cape Town today in the murder of eight-year-old Tazné van Wyk. The accused, 54-year-old Moyhdian Pangkaeker, was arrested in February 2020 following Tazne's disappearance near her home in Elsies River a few days earlier. The girl's body was found in a storm water pipe outside Worcester. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Atule Joka
Members of the National assembly have six days to make a written or recorded submission to provide information for the preliminary investigation into the conduct of President Cyril Ramaphosa. The members who wishes to make submission will have to do the from 22 to 27 October. The Independent Panel of Experts officially started its work on Wednesday. Jon Gericke spoke to Parliament Reporter Mercedes Besent....
Members of the National assembly have six days to make a written or recorded submission to provide information for the preliminary investigation into the conduct of President Cyril Ramaphosa. The members who wishes to make submission will have to do the from 22 to 27 October. The Independent Panel of Experts officially started its work on Wednesday. Jon Gericke spoke to Parliament Reporter Mercedes Besent....
Police in Ermelo in Mpumalanga have confiscated rifles, firearms and other objects from illegal miners in five different disused mines in the area. This comes a week after the police arrested over two hundred illegal miners mostly foreign nationals from Mozambique, Eswatini and Zimbabwe. There are allegations that some of the illegal miners have threatened to burn schools if the police do not release their arrested colleagues. Meanwhile, A video has been circulating on social media showing young school children running as a rising plume of smoke can be seen in the background. It is reported that illegal miners broke into a school and threatened learners and teachers. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi
Police in Ermelo in Mpumalanga have confiscated rifles, firearms and other objects from illegal miners in five different disused mines in the area. This comes a week after the police arrested over two hundred illegal miners mostly foreign nationals from Mozambique, Eswatini and Zimbabwe. There are allegations that some of the illegal miners have threatened to burn schools if the police do not release their arrested colleagues. Meanwhile, A video has been circulating on social media showing young school children running as a rising plume of smoke can be seen in the background. It is reported that illegal miners broke into a school and threatened learners and teachers. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi
The funeral mass of Father Albert Nolan is currently underway at the Lady of Mercy church in Springs East of Johannesburg. The Catholic priest, anti-apartheid activist and author has been described as an incredible theologian who was concerned about human suffering. Father Albert died at Marian House in Boksburg on Gauteng's East Rand on Monday. He was 88. Tshepo Phagane looks back at his life….
The funeral mass of Father Albert Nolan is currently underway at the Lady of Mercy church in Springs East of Johannesburg. The Catholic priest, anti-apartheid activist and author has been described as an incredible theologian who was concerned about human suffering. Father Albert died at Marian House in Boksburg on Gauteng's East Rand on Monday. He was 88. Tshepo Phagane looks back at his life….
Mpumalanga police are investigating a case of kidnapping after the disappearance of the Nkangala Municipal Manager, Maggie Skhosana. Skhosana and her driver were allegedly kidnapped outside the gates of the municipal offices in Middleburg on Thursday. Provincial police spokesperson, Selvy Mohlala says they have found the vehicle of the manager abandoned in one of the mines in Middleburg. He says her wheelchair and handbag were still in the vehicle. He spoke to Jon Gericke
Mpumalanga police are investigating a case of kidnapping after the disappearance of the Nkangala Municipal Manager, Maggie Skhosana. Skhosana and her driver were allegedly kidnapped outside the gates of the municipal offices in Middleburg on Thursday. Provincial police spokesperson, Selvy Mohlala says they have found the vehicle of the manager abandoned in one of the mines in Middleburg. He says her wheelchair and handbag were still in the vehicle. He spoke to Jon Gericke
The National Assembly will proceed with the special sitting this afternoon to consider and pass the Bill as the extended Constitutional Court deadline is December the tenth. If passed, the Bill still has to go to the NCOP for concurrence. The Bill seeks to give independent candidates the right to contest the provincial and national elections. Singh says it took the executive 18 months before submitting the Bill to Parliament - six months before the first Constitutional Court deadline of June 2022. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington.
The National Assembly will proceed with the special sitting this afternoon to consider and pass the Bill as the extended Constitutional Court deadline is December the tenth. If passed, the Bill still has to go to the NCOP for concurrence. The Bill seeks to give independent candidates the right to contest the provincial and national elections. Singh says it took the executive 18 months before submitting the Bill to Parliament - six months before the first Constitutional Court deadline of June 2022. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington.
The Independent Panel of legal experts appointed to assess whether there are sufficient grounds for the National Assembly to impeach President Cyril Ramaphosa over the Phala Phala debacle commences with its task today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington
The Independent Panel of legal experts appointed to assess whether there are sufficient grounds for the National Assembly to impeach President Cyril Ramaphosa over the Phala Phala debacle commences with its task today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zalene Merrington
Eskom CEO Andre De Ruyter says the power utility is still dealing with challenges over the quality of coal that they receive. De Ruyter together with his Chief Operating Officer, Jan Oberholzer and the SIU partnering with the Hawks are at the Standing Committee on Public Accounts briefing members on parliament on recent challenges at Eskom. They are also giving updates on investigations that are still ongoing which have been brought before law enforcement agencies. De Ruyter had this to say when it comes to questions over how they are best dealing with the issue of bad quality coal. In the same clip, he is followed by his COO, Jan Oberholzer speaking on the recent fire at Kusile and the life expansion project at the Kuberg nuclear power station.
Eskom CEO Andre De Ruyter says the power utility is still dealing with challenges over the quality of coal that they receive. De Ruyter together with his Chief Operating Officer, Jan Oberholzer and the SIU partnering with the Hawks are at the Standing Committee on Public Accounts briefing members on parliament on recent challenges at Eskom. They are also giving updates on investigations that are still ongoing which have been brought before law enforcement agencies. De Ruyter had this to say when it comes to questions over how they are best dealing with the issue of bad quality coal. In the same clip, he is followed by his COO, Jan Oberholzer speaking on the recent fire at Kusile and the life expansion project at the Kuberg nuclear power station.
Pietermaritzburg High Court Judge, Piet Koen has conceded that his continued involvement as presiding judge in the arms deal trial against former president Jacob Zuma needs in the interest of justice to be addressed. Judge Koen also noted the possible injustice of continuing with the trial while the former president seeks a constitutional ruling in relation to pending application for the recusal of State Prosecutor, Advocate Billy Downer. Reading his judgement on Wednesday, Judge Koen postponed the continuation of the trial to the 30th of January 2023.
Pietermaritzburg High Court Judge, Piet Koen has conceded that his continued involvement as presiding judge in the arms deal trial against former president Jacob Zuma needs in the interest of justice to be addressed. Judge Koen also noted the possible injustice of continuing with the trial while the former president seeks a constitutional ruling in relation to pending application for the recusal of State Prosecutor, Advocate Billy Downer. Reading his judgement on Wednesday, Judge Koen postponed the continuation of the trial to the 30th of January 2023.
The family of an 82-year-old woman that was allegedly raped and murdered over the weekend in Richmond in the Northern Cape is still reeling in shock. This as a 19 year old man is expected to appear before the local Magistrate's court today. The body of 82-year-old Sophia Miles was discovered by neighbours on Monday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in court, Ulrich Hendriks...
The family of an 82-year-old woman that was allegedly raped and murdered over the weekend in Richmond in the Northern Cape is still reeling in shock. This as a 19 year old man is expected to appear before the local Magistrate's court today. The body of 82-year-old Sophia Miles was discovered by neighbours on Monday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in court, Ulrich Hendriks...
The 35-year-old man who was arrested last week Friday for allegedly killing a German tourist, has appeared at the Kabokweni Magistrate court today. Joseph Nyalungu is facing charges of murder, attempted murder and attempted hijacking. He has been remanded in custody until 28th October for bail application. For the latest we're now joined on the line by our reporter Motsebi Monareng
The 35-year-old man who was arrested last week Friday for allegedly killing a German tourist, has appeared at the Kabokweni Magistrate court today. Joseph Nyalungu is facing charges of murder, attempted murder and attempted hijacking. He has been remanded in custody until 28th October for bail application. For the latest we're now joined on the line by our reporter Motsebi Monareng
The department of Correctional Services says following the escape of SEVEN detainees from the Grahamstown Correctional Facility on Tuesday, investigations are continuing to ensure the re-arrest of the 6 still at large. The department says the seven are facing a range of charges including rhino poaching and attempted murder. It is alleged that at 04:00 vam on Tuesday morning, an officer arrived for work at the facility and became suspicious when she noticed that the light was on in one of the holding units. Upon further investigation, she discovered that the group had escaped. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Spokesperson for the department of department of Correctional Services, Singabakho Nxumalo
The department of Correctional Services says following the escape of SEVEN detainees from the Grahamstown Correctional Facility on Tuesday, investigations are continuing to ensure the re-arrest of the 6 still at large. The department says the seven are facing a range of charges including rhino poaching and attempted murder. It is alleged that at 04:00 vam on Tuesday morning, an officer arrived for work at the facility and became suspicious when she noticed that the light was on in one of the holding units. Upon further investigation, she discovered that the group had escaped. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Spokesperson for the department of department of Correctional Services, Singabakho Nxumalo
The case against a 21-year-old accused of the murder of a woman believed to be a sex worker, has been postponed to the 25th of October. The man appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Tuesday where the state admitted to still not having conducted an identity parade. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Pearl Magubane
The case against a 21-year-old accused of the murder of a woman believed to be a sex worker, has been postponed to the 25th of October. The man appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Tuesday where the state admitted to still not having conducted an identity parade. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Pearl Magubane
Community members of Soshanguve in Tshwane have marched in protest at the Pretoria North Magistrate's Court where a 27-year old man will apply for bail in connection with the rape of a two year old girl in Soshanguve. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Community members of Soshanguve in Tshwane have marched in protest at the Pretoria North Magistrate's Court where a 27-year old man will apply for bail in connection with the rape of a two year old girl in Soshanguve. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Residents of Richmond in the Northern Cape are holding a March at the local magistrate's court following the brutal rape and murder of an 82-year-old woman in the town over the weekend. The victim was found in her home and two people have been brought in for questioning. Sakina Kamwendo spoe to the victim's Grand-daughter, Thembisa Mkontwana.
Residents of Richmond in the Northern Cape are holding a March at the local magistrate's court following the brutal rape and murder of an 82-year-old woman in the town over the weekend. The victim was found in her home and two people have been brought in for questioning. Sakina Kamwendo spoe to the victim's Grand-daughter, Thembisa Mkontwana.
Wage negotiations between Transnet and unions are still ongoing. Transport union SATAWU has dismissed news reports over the weekend that the union consulted and tried to persuade its members to consider the recent offer by Transnet of 6%. SATAWU says the strike is still on. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amanda Tshemese , Head of Communications at SATAWU
Wage negotiations between Transnet and unions are still ongoing. Transport union SATAWU has dismissed news reports over the weekend that the union consulted and tried to persuade its members to consider the recent offer by Transnet of 6%. SATAWU says the strike is still on. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amanda Tshemese , Head of Communications at SATAWU
Five suspects arrested in connection with the murder of nine people in Kariega in the Eastern Cape last week appeared in KwaNobuhle Magistrate Court today. They are facing charges of murder and attempted murder. The matter has been postponed to the 24th of October. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Lwando Nomoyi
Five suspects arrested in connection with the murder of nine people in Kariega in the Eastern Cape last week appeared in KwaNobuhle Magistrate Court today. They are facing charges of murder and attempted murder. The matter has been postponed to the 24th of October. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Lwando Nomoyi
The case against a 30-year-old suspect has been postponed after he appeared before the Benoni Magistrates court in Ekurhuleni for the alleged murder of a four year old girl. Bokgabo Poo from Wattville in the Eastrand was reported missing last Monday. Her body parts were discovered in a joint search by members of the community and the police. The search party found a leg of a child in a shallow grave inside a yard of a house in Tamboville. Later in the afternoon, a mutilated body was discovered a few meters away from the house where the leg was found. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Reporter Tshepo Phagane and Missing Children SA coordinator and criminologist, Bianca van Aswegen
The case against a 30-year-old suspect has been postponed after he appeared before the Benoni Magistrates court in Ekurhuleni for the alleged murder of a four year old girl. Bokgabo Poo from Wattville in the Eastrand was reported missing last Monday. Her body parts were discovered in a joint search by members of the community and the police. The search party found a leg of a child in a shallow grave inside a yard of a house in Tamboville. Later in the afternoon, a mutilated body was discovered a few meters away from the house where the leg was found. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Reporter Tshepo Phagane and Missing Children SA coordinator and criminologist, Bianca van Aswegen
The Democratic Alliance in Mpumalanga says there is illegal mining activity taking place at the Optimum Coal Mine in Hendrina. The party has accused contractors who were appointed and licensed to do pit mining, are perpetrating the illegal activities. The DA says the miners contracts are up and they should have ceased operations. Jon Gericke spoke to DA Leader in Mpumalanga, Jane Sithole...
The Democratic Alliance in Mpumalanga says there is illegal mining activity taking place at the Optimum Coal Mine in Hendrina. The party has accused contractors who were appointed and licensed to do pit mining, are perpetrating the illegal activities. The DA says the miners contracts are up and they should have ceased operations. Jon Gericke spoke to DA Leader in Mpumalanga, Jane Sithole...
Suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkwebane remains resilient on returning back to her duties in office. She has approached the Western Cape High Court in order to appeal a ruling barring her from returning to work at least for now despite the court having reviewed and set aside her suspension by President Cyril Ramaphosa. President Ramaphosa, together with the Democratic Alliance have since approached the constitutional court to make a final decision on the matter. Advocate Mkhwebane spoke to Jon Gericke.
Suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkwebane remains resilient on returning back to her duties in office. She has approached the Western Cape High Court in order to appeal a ruling barring her from returning to work at least for now despite the court having reviewed and set aside her suspension by President Cyril Ramaphosa. President Ramaphosa, together with the Democratic Alliance have since approached the constitutional court to make a final decision on the matter. Advocate Mkhwebane spoke to Jon Gericke.
The South African Post Office future is uncertain after the Auditor General mentioned that, its delivery performance has dropped from 89.3% at the end of March 2020 to 68.36% by March 2022. The Auditor-General could also not confirm if the post office will be a going concern in the foreseeable future. The AG-flagged a R2.1 billion net loss during the financial year ending 31 March 2022 and the fact that the Post Office's liabilities exceed its assets by R4 billion. Jon Gericke spoke to South African Post Office Chief Executive Officer, Nomkhita Mona.....
The South African Post Office future is uncertain after the Auditor General mentioned that, its delivery performance has dropped from 89.3% at the end of March 2020 to 68.36% by March 2022. The Auditor-General could also not confirm if the post office will be a going concern in the foreseeable future. The AG-flagged a R2.1 billion net loss during the financial year ending 31 March 2022 and the fact that the Post Office's liabilities exceed its assets by R4 billion. Jon Gericke spoke to South African Post Office Chief Executive Officer, Nomkhita Mona.....
The Support Public Broadcasting Coalition has warned against the suggestion that an interim board may be appointed at the SABC. This as the term of the current board, chaired by Bongumusa Makhathini comes to an end tomorrow. Meanwhile, parliament's portfolio committee on communications has been lambasted for delaying the process of electing a new board, leaving a vaccum at the public broadcaster as of this coming Sunday. SOS's national coordinator, Uyanda Siyotula says the committee should get on with its work by submitting the recommended names for a new board to the National Assembly. She spoke to Jon Gericke
The Support Public Broadcasting Coalition has warned against the suggestion that an interim board may be appointed at the SABC. This as the term of the current board, chaired by Bongumusa Makhathini comes to an end tomorrow. Meanwhile, parliament's portfolio committee on communications has been lambasted for delaying the process of electing a new board, leaving a vaccum at the public broadcaster as of this coming Sunday. SOS's national coordinator, Uyanda Siyotula says the committee should get on with its work by submitting the recommended names for a new board to the National Assembly. She spoke to Jon Gericke
Transnet says it has tabled a new three year wage offer to all it workers affiliated to both SATAWU and the United National Transport Union. This as wage negotiations remain deadlock despite interventions by government. SATAWU and UNTU members are demanding a wage increase of up to 13 percent while Transnet's latest offer remains between four and five percent. Transnet spokesperson, Ayanda Shezi said the parastatal hoped that the latest wage offer will allow for labour stability. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Secretary of the United National Transport Union, Cobus Van Vuuren.
Transnet says it has tabled a new three year wage offer to all it workers affiliated to both SATAWU and the United National Transport Union. This as wage negotiations remain deadlock despite interventions by government. SATAWU and UNTU members are demanding a wage increase of up to 13 percent while Transnet's latest offer remains between four and five percent. Transnet spokesperson, Ayanda Shezi said the parastatal hoped that the latest wage offer will allow for labour stability. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Secretary of the United National Transport Union, Cobus Van Vuuren.
An urgent bail application by Bongani Ntanzi , accused number two in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, is currently underway at the Pretoria high court. Bongani Ntanzi is one of five men who were arrested in 2020 in connection with Meyiwa's death and are currently standing trial on charges of murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni
An urgent bail application by Bongani Ntanzi , accused number two in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, is currently underway at the Pretoria high court. Bongani Ntanzi is one of five men who were arrested in 2020 in connection with Meyiwa's death and are currently standing trial on charges of murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni
The Dudula Movement is today expected to march to Education Departments across five of the country's provinces. The marches are to take place in Gauteng, the North West, Limpopo, the Free State and the Eastern Cape. The movement says it intends on submitting a memorandum of demands to provincial MEC's demanding that local graduate teachers are prioritised over foreign national teachers who currently occupy those jobs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dudula Movement's National Secretary General, Zandile Dabula...
The Dudula Movement is today expected to march to Education Departments across five of the country's provinces. The marches are to take place in Gauteng, the North West, Limpopo, the Free State and the Eastern Cape. The movement says it intends on submitting a memorandum of demands to provincial MEC's demanding that local graduate teachers are prioritised over foreign national teachers who currently occupy those jobs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dudula Movement's National Secretary General, Zandile Dabula...
The trial of alleged July unrest instigator Ngizwe Mchunu has been postponed to the 5 of December as the main witness is currently testifying in another matter in the high court. The former Ukhozi FM radio personality has been charged with inciting violence during the unrest in 2021. Mchunu made a brief appearance in the Randburg Magistrate's Court in Johannesburg June for his alleged involvement to the incident. During that court appearance, prosecutor. Mchunu faces charges of inciting public violence and breaching the Disaster Management Act. He's out on two-thousand rand bail. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane,
The trial of alleged July unrest instigator Ngizwe Mchunu has been postponed to the 5 of December as the main witness is currently testifying in another matter in the high court. The former Ukhozi FM radio personality has been charged with inciting violence during the unrest in 2021. Mchunu made a brief appearance in the Randburg Magistrate's Court in Johannesburg June for his alleged involvement to the incident. During that court appearance, prosecutor. Mchunu faces charges of inciting public violence and breaching the Disaster Management Act. He's out on two-thousand rand bail. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane,
The case against 21 people charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, illegally mining, possession of illegal firearms and ammunition has been postponed by the Stilfontein Magistrate's Court in the North West. The accused will return to court on the 18th of October. For more we are now joined on the line by our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane
The case against 21 people charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, illegally mining, possession of illegal firearms and ammunition has been postponed by the Stilfontein Magistrate's Court in the North West. The accused will return to court on the 18th of October. For more we are now joined on the line by our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane
Transnet continues to meet with labour unions today to try and resolve the impasse between the parties. Minister of Labour Thulas Nxesi and Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan are also expected to join the wage talks to help resolve the ongoing strike action that's threatening the local economy. The strike has affected services in freight rail, ports and fuel pipelines rendered by the parastatal. Meanwhile , business has now offered to pay increased fees for the rail utility's services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prasheen Maharaj , President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Transnet continues to meet with labour unions today to try and resolve the impasse between the parties. Minister of Labour Thulas Nxesi and Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan are also expected to join the wage talks to help resolve the ongoing strike action that's threatening the local economy. The strike has affected services in freight rail, ports and fuel pipelines rendered by the parastatal. Meanwhile , business has now offered to pay increased fees for the rail utility's services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prasheen Maharaj , President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula and his counterpart Eastern Cape transport MEC Xolile Nqatha have failed to intervene and respond to calls for security amid a crisis involving intercape buses. This according to a recent ruling by the Makhanda High Court which has ordered the transport department to ensure the safety of the bus company and to come up with an action plan within 20 days. Intercape buses have been under attack on various routes in the Eastern Cape. Passengers and drivers have been injured in some incidents. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Intercape CEO Johann Ferreira and began by asking What his reaction is to the judgement by the Makhanda High Court.
Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula and his counterpart Eastern Cape transport MEC Xolile Nqatha have failed to intervene and respond to calls for security amid a crisis involving intercape buses. This according to a recent ruling by the Makhanda High Court which has ordered the transport department to ensure the safety of the bus company and to come up with an action plan within 20 days. Intercape buses have been under attack on various routes in the Eastern Cape. Passengers and drivers have been injured in some incidents. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Intercape CEO Johann Ferreira and began by asking What his reaction is to the judgement by the Makhanda High Court.
Angry TRANSNET workers have threatened to open a case against the police for provoking them. The striking workers were protesting at the depot of the rail transport company. The police used a teargas and stun grenade to disperse them outside the company premises in Bloemfontein. This as wage talks are underway between Transnet and the Unions .Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Ishmael Modiba
Angry TRANSNET workers have threatened to open a case against the police for provoking them. The striking workers were protesting at the depot of the rail transport company. The police used a teargas and stun grenade to disperse them outside the company premises in Bloemfontein. This as wage talks are underway between Transnet and the Unions .Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Ishmael Modiba
A party led by a diamond magnate has won the most seats in last week's election in Lesotho. But the populist Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) has fallen short of an overall majority, raising the prospect of more political turmoil. The RFP has emerged as the single biggest party with 56 seats, but now needs to court other groups to control the mountain kingdom's 120-member parliament. Should RFP, which wealthy businessman Sam Matekane formed in March, secure control of a majority in parliament through coalitions, it will pave the way for the first change in government in more than five years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena..
A party led by a diamond magnate has won the most seats in last week's election in Lesotho. But the populist Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) has fallen short of an overall majority, raising the prospect of more political turmoil. The RFP has emerged as the single biggest party with 56 seats, but now needs to court other groups to control the mountain kingdom's 120-member parliament. Should RFP, which wealthy businessman Sam Matekane formed in March, secure control of a majority in parliament through coalitions, it will pave the way for the first change in government in more than five years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena..
A 21 year old suspect is expected to appear in the Johannesburg magistrate's court to face six counts of murder. This after police were called to a building in Johannesburg following a stench where a body of a woman was discovered on Sunday. The suspect is said to have been the last one to be seen with the deceased. Upon further investigations, 5 more bodies were discovered in a decomposed state. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane
A 21 year old suspect is expected to appear in the Johannesburg magistrate's court to face six counts of murder. This after police were called to a building in Johannesburg following a stench where a body of a woman was discovered on Sunday. The suspect is said to have been the last one to be seen with the deceased. Upon further investigations, 5 more bodies were discovered in a decomposed state. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane
Police Minister Bheki Cele says thirteen Lesotho nationals, five South Africans, one Zimbabwe national and one Swati national were arrested in the Stilfotein Zama Zama bust. Cele says 15 AK 47s were seized together with one R5 rifle. Cele says this is not their first success they are having in Stilfontein as they arrested 87 suspects in Orkney recently..
Police Minister Bheki Cele says thirteen Lesotho nationals, five South Africans, one Zimbabwe national and one Swati national were arrested in the Stilfotein Zama Zama bust. Cele says 15 AK 47s were seized together with one R5 rifle. Cele says this is not their first success they are having in Stilfontein as they arrested 87 suspects in Orkney recently..
South African Police Services in Johannesburg have apprehended a 21-year-old man for murder following the discovery of six bodies in a building on Sunday. The discovery was made after police were called to the building due to a foul smell coming out of one of the rooms. That is when a body of a woman was found. A preliminary investigation led the police to the suspect, believed to be the last person seen with the deceased woman. SAPS Spokesperson, Brigadier Brenda Muridili
South African Police Services in Johannesburg have apprehended a 21-year-old man for murder following the discovery of six bodies in a building on Sunday. The discovery was made after police were called to the building due to a foul smell coming out of one of the rooms. That is when a body of a woman was found. A preliminary investigation led the police to the suspect, believed to be the last person seen with the deceased woman. SAPS Spokesperson, Brigadier Brenda Muridili
TRANSNET says it is hoping for an amicable solution to the impasse with unions over wages. TRANSNET management is meeting with unions representing workers under the mediation of two CCMA commissioners at the Transnet Bargaining Council in Johannesburg. The aim is to finalise the picketing rules and to find a possible resolution to the wage impasse. The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union and the United National Transport Union have rejected TRANSNET's three per cent wage offer and are demanding between 12 and 13-point-five per cent.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Naledi Ngcobo
TRANSNET says it is hoping for an amicable solution to the impasse with unions over wages. TRANSNET management is meeting with unions representing workers under the mediation of two CCMA commissioners at the Transnet Bargaining Council in Johannesburg. The aim is to finalise the picketing rules and to find a possible resolution to the wage impasse. The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union and the United National Transport Union have rejected TRANSNET's three per cent wage offer and are demanding between 12 and 13-point-five per cent.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Naledi Ngcobo
Russian president Vladimir Putin has threatened a "harsh response" if attacks continue against Russia, hours after his troops launched a massive wave of strikes targeting cities across Ukraine. Explosions are reported in other cities across the country, including Lviv, Dnipro and Zaporizhzhia, in what appears to be the most widespread set of Russian attacks since the early weeks of the war. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena
Russian president Vladimir Putin has threatened a "harsh response" if attacks continue against Russia, hours after his troops launched a massive wave of strikes targeting cities across Ukraine. Explosions are reported in other cities across the country, including Lviv, Dnipro and Zaporizhzhia, in what appears to be the most widespread set of Russian attacks since the early weeks of the war. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC International News Editor, Sophie Mokoena
Police Minister Bheki Cele is believed to be engaging the management of the Kruger National Park following the fatal shooting of a German tourist on Monday. Cele is expected to later visit the scene of the shooting in Masoyi betwene White River and Hazyview in Mpumalanga. This as local residents have called on the law enforcement agencies to intensify security measures in the area as the attacks on tourists are prevalent. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Motsebi Monareng...
The ANC in Gauteng has hinted at a possible cabinet reshuffle for the province following the announcement of the party's premier elect, Panyaza Lesufi. Lesufi, the current MEC for Education in the province is set to replace outgoing premier David Makhura who tendered his resignation yesterday. ANC provincial secretary, Thembinkosi Nciza says Lesufi, once elected as premier, should be afforded the space to bring his own team to head up the provincial government.
he ANC in Gauteng has hinted at a possible cabinet reshuffle for the province following the announcement of the party's premier elect, Panyaza Lesufi. Lesufi, the current MEC for Education in the province is set to replace outgoing premier David Makhura who tendered his resignation yesterday. ANC provincial secretary, Thembinkosi Nciza says Lesufi, once elected as premier, should be afforded the space to bring his own team to head up the provincial government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst and governance expert, Sandile Swana.
Mpumalanga police say they are investigating after a 67-year-old German tourist was shot and killed near the the Kruger National Park's Numbi Gate entrance yesterday. Authorities say robbers accosted four tourists who were heading to the Numbi Gate. It is alleged that three robbers instructed the tourists to open the doors of their vehicle and when they refused to do so, one of the suspects fired a shot through the window and struck the driver in the upper body. The driver managed to drive away for several meters before the vehicle crashed into a boundary wall before succumbing to his injuries. Sakina Kamwenso Spoke to Spokesperson for the Mpumalanga Police, Brig Selby Mohala..
Mpumalanga police say they are investigating after a 67-year-old German tourist was shot and killed near the the Kruger National Park's Numbi Gate entrance yesterday. Authorities say robbers accosted four tourists who were heading to the Numbi Gate. It is alleged that three robbers instructed the tourists to open the doors of their vehicle and when they refused to do so, one of the suspects fired a shot through the window and struck the driver in the upper body. The driver managed to drive away for several meters before the vehicle crashed into a boundary wall before succumbing to his injuries. Sakina Kamwenso Spoke to Spokesperson for the Mpumalanga Police, Brig Selby Mohala..
South Africa is expected to experience the worst heatwave today with temperatures souring to about 36/38 degrees in Gauteng. Mpumalanga, the North-West and the Northern parts of Free State. The heatwave also comes in a time where some parts of Johannesburg are experiencing water shortages. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Meteorologist Phemelo Zonke...
South Africa is expected to experience the worst heatwave today with temperatures souring to about 36/38 degrees in Gauteng. Mpumalanga, the North-West and the Northern parts of Free State. The heatwave also comes in a time where some parts of Johannesburg are experiencing water shortages. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Meteorologist Phemelo Zonke...
Local governance experts say some of the service delivery programmes instituted by the ousted Johannesburg multi-party government could be abandoned or relegated. They say this is among the reasons why communities embark on service delivery protests. Last week ANC Johannesburg regional chairperson Dada Morero was elected the mayor of the City of Johannesburg following the ousting of the DA's Mpho Phalatse through a motion of no confidence vote. Phalatse is expected to file papers in the High court in Johannesburg today to challenge the validity of the council meeting held last Friday where she was ousted through a vote of no confidence. Tshepo Phagane reports….
Local governance experts say some of the service delivery programmes instituted by the ousted Johannesburg multi-party government could be abandoned or relegated. They say this is among the reasons why communities embark on service delivery protests. Last week ANC Johannesburg regional chairperson Dada Morero was elected the mayor of the City of Johannesburg following the ousting of the DA's Mpho Phalatse through a motion of no confidence vote. Phalatse is expected to file papers in the High court in Johannesburg today to challenge the validity of the council meeting held last Friday where she was ousted through a vote of no confidence. Tshepo Phagane reports….
The battle for the Balobedu throne in Modjadjiskloof in Limpopo is far from over. Some members of the royal family say they plan to crown Princess Masalanabo as queen Modjadji the Seventh in April next year, when she turns 18. This is despite this past weekend's installation of her brother, Prince Lekukela Modjadji, as king-elect. The Modjadji Royal Council under the leadership of the regent, Bakhoma Mpapatla Modjadji, inagurated Prince Lekukela in a traditonal ceremony at Ketlhakoni outside Tzaneen. Udo Carelse spoke to professor Sekgothe Mokgoat-shana from the Department of Cultural and Political Studies at the University of Limpopo
The battle for the Balobedu throne in Modjadjiskloof in Limpopo is far from over. Some members of the royal family say they plan to crown Princess Masalanabo as queen Modjadji the Seventh in April next year, when she turns 18. This is despite this past weekend's installation of her brother, Prince Lekukela Modjadji, as king-elect. The Modjadji Royal Council under the leadership of the regent, Bakhoma Mpapatla Modjadji, inagurated Prince Lekukela in a traditonal ceremony at Ketlhakoni outside Tzaneen. Udo Carelse spoke to professor Sekgothe Mokgoat-shana from the Department of Cultural and Political Studies at the University of Limpopo
The Chairperson of the Giyani Concerned Residents in Limpopo, says they suspect that corruption and looting are some of the causes delaying the completion of the multi-million rand Giyani bulk water project. Vusi Chauke was speaking during a protest by residents from 55 villages in Giyani. Angry residents have blockaded roads and shutdown businesses. Chauke says previous commitment by Water and Sanitation department to complete the project by September has not been realised. He spoke to Udo Carelse
The Chairperson of the Giyani Concerned Residents in Limpopo, says they suspect that corruption and looting are some of the causes delaying the completion of the multi-million rand Giyani bulk water project. Vusi Chauke was speaking during a protest by residents from 55 villages in Giyani. Angry residents have blockaded roads and shutdown businesses. Chauke says previous commitment by Water and Sanitation department to complete the project by September has not been realised. He spoke to Udo Carelse
ActionSA says the Democratic Alliance (DA) must take the blame for losing control of Johannesburg. The party also says coalition governments have left out South Africans in their quest for power in the metros. The coalition structure will be meeting tonight to map out a way forward with regard to problems with coalitions.Udo Carelse spoke to Action SA Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, Bongani Baloyi.
ActionSA says the Democratic Alliance (DA) must take the blame for losing control of Johannesburg. The party also says coalition governments have left out South Africans in their quest for power in the metros. The coalition structure will be meeting tonight to map out a way forward with regard to problems with coalitions.Udo Carelse spoke to Action SA Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, Bongani Baloyi.
The Bureau of Economic Research says the mining sector has warned that it cannot sustain operations under current blackouts of Stage 4 loadshedding. Eskom is currently running the longest blackouts since the inception of loadshedding and mining companies are fearful they may have to cut jobs as a result. Udo Carelse spoke to Senior Economics at Bureau for Economic Research, Lisette de Schepper.
The Bureau of Economic Research says the mining sector has warned that it cannot sustain operations under current blackouts of Stage 4 loadshedding. Eskom is currently running the longest blackouts since the inception of loadshedding and mining companies are fearful they may have to cut jobs as a result. Udo Carelse spoke to Senior Economics at Bureau for Economic Research, Lisette de Schepper.
Acting Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka has absolved both the Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan and president Cyril Ramaphosa on investigation her office had undertaken. Minister Gordhan was reported to the Public Protector's office for allegedly irregularly appointing his Chief of Staff without following due process. Meanwhlie, allegations against president Ramaphosa were for allegedly violating the Executive Code of Ethics for failing to inform all relevant investigative authorities regarding the misuse of state funds for party political gains. Advocate Gcaleka says the misuse of public funds which president Ramaphosa referred to was public knowledg
Acting Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka has absolved both the Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan and president Cyril Ramaphosa on investigation her office had undertaken. Minister Gordhan was reported to the Public Protector's office for allegedly irregularly appointing his Chief of Staff without following due process. Meanwhlie, allegations against president Ramaphosa were for allegedly violating the Executive Code of Ethics for failing to inform all relevant investigative authorities regarding the misuse of state funds for party political gains. Advocate Gcaleka says the misuse of public funds which president Ramaphosa referred to was public knowledg
The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed an urgent application to interdict the coronation of prince Lekukela Modjadji as the Balobedu king with cost. The coronation is planned for tommorow, starting with rituals today in the evening. The foster parents of Princess Masalanabo Modjadji wanted the court to stop the installation her brother - prince Lekukela Modjadji as the next monarch. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Momelo waOne Mothoa and the foster parent of Princess Masalanabo Modjadji, Dr Mathole Motshega
The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed an urgent application to interdict the coronation of prince Lekukela Modjadji as the Balobedu king with cost. The coronation is planned for tommorow, starting with rituals today in the evening. The foster parents of Princess Masalanabo Modjadji wanted the court to stop the installation her brother - prince Lekukela Modjadji as the next monarch. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Momelo waOne Mothoa and the foster parent of Princess Masalanabo Modjadji, Dr Mathole Motshega
The country is still struggling to create jobs according to the latest Statistics South Africa's quarterly employment numbers released earlier today. Data released shows a total of 119 thousand people lost their jobs in June this year. This from 10 - million 067 -thousand in March 2022 to 9-million 948 -thousand in June 2022. The June quarterly employment data shows jobs decreased in community services, construction and manufacturing. However employment increased in mining, transport and trade sectors of the economy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior researcher at the Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko.
The country is still struggling to create jobs according to the latest Statistics South Africa's quarterly employment numbers released earlier today. Data released shows a total of 119 thousand people lost their jobs in June this year. This from 10 - million 067 -thousand in March 2022 to 9-million 948 -thousand in June 2022. The June quarterly employment data shows jobs decreased in community services, construction and manufacturing. However employment increased in mining, transport and trade sectors of the economy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior researcher at the Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko.
Former president Jacob Zuma has come out in support of Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma for the ANC presidency at the party's 55th elective conference in December. In a statement by the former president, Zuma says he's available for the chairperson position if nominated by ANC branches. Coming out a short while ago, the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has come out endorsing former health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize for the party presidency. Party secretary, Bheki Mtolo elaborates.
Former president Jacob Zuma has come out in support of Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma for the ANC presidency at the party's 55th elective conference in December. In a statement by the former president, Zuma says he's available for the chairperson position if nominated by ANC branches. Coming out a short while ago, the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has come out endorsing former health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize for the party presidency. Party secretary, Bheki Mtolo elaborates.
Plenary sessions at the second day of the 14th National Elective Congress of COSATU have commenced with an address by SACP's General Secretary Solly Mapaila. This follows concerns over whether the ANC will be allowed to address the congress. Yesterday delegates blocked ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe from addressing them. They heckled and booed Mantashe and accused him and the ANC-led government of failing the workers after reneging on the pay hike agreement signed in 2018. For the latest on what's coming out from Midrand, where the congress in sitting, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo
Plenary sessions at the second day of the 14th National Elective Congress of COSATU have commenced with an address by SACP's General Secretary Solly Mapaila. This follows concerns over whether the ANC will be allowed to address the congress. Yesterday delegates blocked ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe from addressing them. They heckled and booed Mantashe and accused him and the ANC-led government of failing the workers after reneging on the pay hike agreement signed in 2018. For the latest on what's coming out from Midrand, where the congress in sitting, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo
The enthronement of prince Lekukela Modjadi is under threat. The foster parents of princess Masalanabo, the Motshekgas, are seeking a High Court interdict to stop the inauguration. The Modjadi royal council has planned to install Prince Lekukela this coming weekend. The Motshekgas contend that Masalanabo is the rightful heir to succeed her mother Queen Modjadji. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC senior reseacher Maswele Ralebone
The enthronement of prince Lekukela Modjadi is under threat. The foster parents of princess Masalanabo, the Motshekgas, are seeking a High Court interdict to stop the inauguration. The Modjadi royal council has planned to install Prince Lekukela this coming weekend. The Motshekgas contend that Masalanabo is the rightful heir to succeed her mother Queen Modjadji. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC senior reseacher Maswele Ralebone
The World Bank says interest rate hikes by central banks around the world could trigger a global recession next year (2023). It says central banks have raised rates "with a degree of synchronicity not seen over the past five decades" to tackle soaring prices. Last week, the Reserve Bank's monetary policy committee has decided to increase rates by seventy-five basis points, in line with market expectations. Sakima Kamwendo spoke to Independent economist Duma Gqubule
The World Bank says interest rate hikes by central banks around the world could trigger a global recession next year (2023). It says central banks have raised rates "with a degree of synchronicity not seen over the past five decades" to tackle soaring prices. Last week, the Reserve Bank's monetary policy committee has decided to increase rates by seventy-five basis points, in line with market expectations. Sakima Kamwendo spoke to Independent economist Duma Gqubule
Cosatu president, Zingiswa Losi has given her opening remarks at the start of the 14th national elective congress of the federation, taking place in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. Around two thousand members from various trade unions are expected to discuss the future of the labour federation and the challenges the country's working class in facing. Losi, who is understood to be seeking for a second term as president says the tripartite alliance with the ANC and the SACP must be protected.
Cosatu president, Zingiswa Losi has given her opening remarks at the start of the 14th national elective congress of the federation, taking place in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. Around two thousand members from various trade unions are expected to discuss the future of the labour federation and the challenges the country's working class in facing. Losi, who is understood to be seeking for a second term as president says the tripartite alliance with the ANC and the SACP must be protected.
The case of five accused men in the shooting at the Nomzamo tavern in Soweto has been postponed to the 18th of next month in the Orlando Regional Court. They made their first court appearance this morning. One of the accused was arrested in Johannesburg on Thursday, while the second one was arrested in the Northern Cape on Friday. The shooting left 16 people dead and scores others wounded. It happened when a group of unknown heavily armed suspects fired shots a tavern patrons in July. NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwana gave this update to the media just outside court earlier...
The case of five accused men in the shooting at the Nomzamo tavern in Soweto has been postponed to the 18th of next month in the Orlando Regional Court. They made their first court appearance this morning. One of the accused was arrested in Johannesburg on Thursday, while the second one was arrested in the Northern Cape on Friday. The shooting left 16 people dead and scores others wounded. It happened when a group of unknown heavily armed suspects fired shots a tavern patrons in July. NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwana gave this update to the media just outside court earlier...
The Ditsobotla Councillors, have taken a legal route to challenge the dissolution of their council and the appointment of the Administrator. They are questioning the motive of government, because, they believe they do not meet the legislative criteria to be dissolved and that the process to dissolve them, was flawed. This has put paid to the introduction of the Administrator to the municipality, which has now been put in abeyance. Jon Gericke spoke to Spokesperson for Ditsobotla Councillors, Benny Moisane
The Ditsobotla Councillors, have taken a legal route to challenge the dissolution of their council and the appointment of the Administrator. They are questioning the motive of government, because, they believe they do not meet the legislative criteria to be dissolved and that the process to dissolve them, was flawed. This has put paid to the introduction of the Administrator to the municipality, which has now been put in abeyance. Jon Gericke spoke to Spokesperson for Ditsobotla Councillors, Benny Moisane
Today marks the official launch of the Sovereign Africa Ratings agency and the publication of its first sovereign rating. Dubbed a pan-african ratings agency with the aim of telling African economic stories, the agency aims at bringing some change into the narration about the continent's economies. This as the global credit-rating landscape is dominated and monopolised, by three main players, namely Moody's, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch; Moody's and S&P. Jon Gericke spoke to COO, Zwelibanzi Maziya
Today marks the official launch of the Sovereign Africa Ratings agency and the publication of its first sovereign rating. Dubbed a pan-african ratings agency with the aim of telling African economic stories, the agency aims at bringing some change into the narration about the continent's economies. This as the global credit-rating landscape is dominated and monopolised, by three main players, namely Moody's, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch; Moody's and S&P. Jon Gericke spoke to COO, Zwelibanzi Maziya
The multi-million Rand Asbestos fraud pre-trial case involving suspended ANC Secretary General, Ace Magashule has been postponed to January. Magashule, ten others and five companies appeared at the Bloemfontein High Court. The suspended ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule has told the High Court in Bloemfontein that the postponements of the case are affecting his political career. Here is Judge Phillip Loubser delivering the postponement...
The multi-million Rand Asbestos fraud pre-trial case involving suspended ANC Secretary General, Ace Magashule has been postponed to January. Magashule, ten others and five companies appeared at the Bloemfontein High Court. The suspended ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule has told the High Court in Bloemfontein that the postponements of the case are affecting his political career. Here is Judge Phillip Loubser delivering the postponement...
The African Rail Industry Association says that by moving freight from road to rail, our roads will be freed of massive trucks that cause havoc. The association is calling on the government to immediately implement their proposed third-party freight rail access policy. Just recently in oPhongolo school children, road users and two essential service personnel were killed by trucks. Jon Gericke spoke to Chief Executive Officer at the African Rail Industry Association, Mesela Nhlapo
The African Rail Industry Association says that by moving freight from road to rail, our roads will be freed of massive trucks that cause havoc. The association is calling on the government to immediately implement their proposed third-party freight rail access policy. Just recently in oPhongolo school children, road users and two essential service personnel were killed by trucks. Jon Gericke spoke to Chief Executive Officer at the African Rail Industry Association, Mesela Nhlapo
Multi-Party government in Johannesburg has rejected Eskom's application for a 38.1% increase in electricity price. The power utility was making its presentations at Nersa that were attended amongst others by officials of Johannesburg City Power. The Eskom application comes on the back of Eskom implementing Stage 5 and 6 electricity blackouts.Jon Gericke spoke to City Power's manager for Tarrifs and Energy management, Frank Hinda...
Multi-Party government in Johannesburg has rejected Eskom's application for a 38.1% increase in electricity price. The power utility was making its presentations at Nersa that were attended amongst others by officials of Johannesburg City Power. The Eskom application comes on the back of Eskom implementing Stage 5 and 6 electricity blackouts.Jon Gericke spoke to City Power's manager for Tarrifs and Energy management, Frank Hinda...
South Africa is facing an existential threat due to increasing rates of murder, extortion and kidnapping. This is according to a report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime that has highlighted that murder has risen 38% since 2010. The organisation further says there is also a R187 billion annual impact from infrastructure theft such as the looting of copper-power-cables. Jon Gericke spoke to Director for the East and Southern Africa observatory, Julian Rademeyer.
South Africa is facing an existential threat due to increasing rates of murder, extortion and kidnapping. This is according to a report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime that has highlighted that murder has risen 38% since 2010. The organisation further says there is also a R187 billion annual impact from infrastructure theft such as the looting of copper-power-cables. Jon Gericke spoke to Director for the East and Southern Africa observatory, Julian Rademeyer.
Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe says South Africans should not act as an Island in a global world. He was responding to a question that was expressing the level of frustration South Africans feel when it comes to the latest challenges of loadshedding in the country. Mantashe was speaking at the signing ceremony with three wind power suppliers in Centurion earlier today. The agreements are part of government's effort to curb the worsening energy crisis which saw the country entering stage 6 loadshedding. The wind power projects fall under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme launched in April 2021. Mantashe says he understands that the country is upset...
Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe says South Africans should not act as an Island in a global world. He was responding to a question that was expressing the level of frustration South Africans feel when it comes to the latest challenges of loadshedding in the country. Mantashe was speaking at the signing ceremony with three wind power suppliers in Centurion earlier today. The agreements are part of government's effort to curb the worsening energy crisis which saw the country entering stage 6 loadshedding. The wind power projects fall under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme launched in April 2021. Mantashe says he understands that the country is upset...
Sentencing procedures in the Pretoria High Court into the trial of four men convicted of the murder of North West businessman Wandile Bozwana are expected to kick-off today.The accused are Sipho Hudla, Robert Mutapa, Bonginkosi Khumalo, and the notorious Mamelodi businessman Vusi "Khekhe" Mathibela. The men are also charged with the murder and attempted murder of Bozwana's colleague Mpho Baloyi.
Baloyi escaped with multiple gunshot wounds in the October 2015 attack at Grasfontein East of Pretoria. Jon Gericke spoke to reporter, Ofentse Setimo...
Sentencing procedures in the Pretoria High Court into the trial of four men convicted of the murder of North West businessman Wandile Bozwana are expected to kick-off today.The accused are Sipho Hudla, Robert Mutapa, Bonginkosi Khumalo, and the notorious Mamelodi businessman Vusi "Khekhe" Mathibela. The men are also charged with the murder and attempted murder of Bozwana's colleague Mpho Baloyi.
Baloyi escaped with multiple gunshot wounds in the October 2015 attack at Grasfontein East of Pretoria. Jon Gericke spoke to reporter, Ofentse Setimo...
Five government officials in the Free State are appearing in court today on charges of corruption. The five suspects were arrested in relation to the alleged fraudulent activities around the Winnie Mandela Brandfort. One of the suspects in the case is a former Head of Department of Sports, arts and culture. Jon Gericke spoke to reporter Kamogelo Seekoei
Five government officials in the Free State are appearing in court today on charges of corruption. The five suspects were arrested in relation to the alleged fraudulent activities around the Winnie Mandela Brandfort. One of the suspects in the case is a former Head of Department of Sports, arts and culture. Jon Gericke spoke to reporter Kamogelo Seekoei
Burials are becoming more and more expensive as mortuaries now have to heavily rely generators. The Southern African Chamber of Undertakers says mortuaries are now forced to use generators to control the temperature in the cold rooms. It says the rising cost of fuel only adds fire the already burning problem of loadshedding. Jon Gericke spoke to Chairperson of the Southern African Chamber of Undertakers, Nhlanhla Bembe
Burials are becoming more and more expensive as mortuaries now have to heavily rely generators. The Southern African Chamber of Undertakers says mortuaries are now forced to use generators to control the temperature in the cold rooms. It says the rising cost of fuel only adds fire the already burning problem of loadshedding. Jon Gericke spoke to Chairperson of the Southern African Chamber of Undertakers, Nhlanhla Bembe
The South African Federation of Trade Unions says its members will be taking to the streets after it was granted a certificate to strike following a collapse of salary negotiations with government. The union has rejected a 3% salary increase offer by the employer and instead led a small group of its members in a picket outside the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council offices in Centurion. The union is demanding that government increases the wage hike to a baseline figure of 8%. Jon Gericke spoke to SAFTU Spokesperson, Trevor Shaku...
The South African Federation of Trade Unions says its members will be taking to the streets after it was granted a certificate to strike following a collapse of salary negotiations with government. The union has rejected a 3% salary increase offer by the employer and instead led a small group of its members in a picket outside the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council offices in Centurion. The union is demanding that government increases the wage hike to a baseline figure of 8%. Jon Gericke spoke to SAFTU Spokesperson, Trevor Shaku...
Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen has called for President Cyril Ramaphosa to immediately dissolve the National Energy Crisis Committee and appoint in it's place, an outside industry expert to oversee the implementation of the energy response plan. Speaking during a media briefing this morning, Steenhuisen reiterated the party's call for Ramaphosa to declare a ring-fenced State of Disaster around Eskom. This comes amid the recent implementation of Stage 5 and 6 rolling blackouts - due to the power utility's severe shortage in generation capacity. The Da-run of City of Cape Town is typically able to protect its customers up to two stages of load shedding where it is possible, primarily through the use of the Steenbras Hydro Pumped Storage Scheme. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli
Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen has called for President Cyril Ramaphosa to immediately dissolve the National Energy Crisis Committee and appoint in it's place, an outside industry expert to oversee the implementation of the energy response plan. Speaking during a media briefing this morning, Steenhuisen reiterated the party's call for Ramaphosa to declare a ring-fenced State of Disaster around Eskom. This comes amid the recent implementation of Stage 5 and 6 rolling blackouts - due to the power utility's severe shortage in generation capacity. The Da-run of City of Cape Town is typically able to protect its customers up to two stages of load shedding where it is possible, primarily through the use of the Steenbras Hydro Pumped Storage Scheme. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli
The state funeral for Britain's longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, is currently taking place at this hour. This marks the end of 10 days of events across the UK since her passing at the age of 96. As many as one million visitors are attending the historic occasion in London. Jon Gericke spoke to London-based SABC News correspondent, Trent Murray.
The state funeral for Britain's longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, is currently taking place at this hour. This marks the end of 10 days of events across the UK since her passing at the age of 96. As many as one million visitors are attending the historic occasion in London. Jon Gericke spoke to London-based SABC News correspondent, Trent Murray.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that Malesela Teffo is no longer an advocate. Teffo - who was representing four the five accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial - withdrew from the case in July. The Legal Practice Council brought an application before the court for Teffo to either be suspended or struck from the roll. The council received numerous complaints against Teffo - some pre-dating the Senzo Meyiwa trial. These include contemptuous behaviour in court and misleading the court. Advocate Teffo had accused President Cyril Ramaphosa, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Police Minister Bheki Cele of being behind attempts to end his career. In handing down judgement, this is what the court had to say.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that Malesela Teffo is no longer an advocate. Teffo - who was representing four the five accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial - withdrew from the case in July. The Legal Practice Council brought an application before the court for Teffo to either be suspended or struck from the roll. The council received numerous complaints against Teffo - some pre-dating the Senzo Meyiwa trial. These include contemptuous behaviour in court and misleading the court. Advocate Teffo had accused President Cyril Ramaphosa, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Police Minister Bheki Cele of being behind attempts to end his career. In handing down judgement, this is what the court had to say.
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has been postponed to November the 14th. Earlier the defence in the case suggested that the hat found in the house in which the former Bafana Bafana captain was gunned down belonged to the witness, Tumelo Madlala and not the intruder. Madlala was being cross-examined in the High Court in Pretoria where five men stand accused of the murder of Meyiwa. A hat was among the exhibits collected in the Vosloorus home of the mother of Meyiwa's then girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo where alleged intruders killed Meyiwa in 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Chriselda Lewis
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial has been postponed to November the 14th. Earlier the defence in the case suggested that the hat found in the house in which the former Bafana Bafana captain was gunned down belonged to the witness, Tumelo Madlala and not the intruder. Madlala was being cross-examined in the High Court in Pretoria where five men stand accused of the murder of Meyiwa. A hat was among the exhibits collected in the Vosloorus home of the mother of Meyiwa's then girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo where alleged intruders killed Meyiwa in 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Chriselda Lewis
Advocate Makesela Teffo has been struck from the roll of advocates. The Legal Practice Council made an application in early August to have Teffo either suspended or struck from the roll of advocates. The council pointed at a number of complaints pre-dating the Senzo Meyiwa trial was being investigated against Advocate Teffo. It detailed almost two dozen allegations, including disrespectful and contemptuous behaviour in court, misleading the court, assault, and the misappropriation of monies from clients. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane.
Advocate Makesela Teffo has been struck from the roll of advocates. The Legal Practice Council made an application in early August to have Teffo either suspended or struck from the roll of advocates. The council pointed at a number of complaints pre-dating the Senzo Meyiwa trial was being investigated against Advocate Teffo. It detailed almost two dozen allegations, including disrespectful and contemptuous behaviour in court, misleading the court, assault, and the misappropriation of monies from clients. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane.
Senzo Meyiwa's friend, Tumelo Madlala has detailed to the High Court in Pretoria the event of the hours leading up to and subsequent to the shooting death of the soccer star. Madlala was back in the dock today to further give evidence on how the Bafana Bafana goalkeeper was shot and killed. Madlala says there were already people outside the house soon after the incident and those people assisted them in carrying Meyiwa to the vehicle which transported him to the hospital. Meyiwa was shot and killed in 2014 at an alleged robbery. Madlala further said that the father of one of the occupants in the house, Chicco Thwala, later asked Meyiwa's girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo is she didn't want to go on an overseas holiday.
Senzo Meyiwa's friend, Tumelo Madlala has detailed to the High Court in Pretoria the event of the hours leading up to and subsequent to the shooting death of the soccer star. Madlala was back in the dock today to further give evidence on how the Bafana Bafana goalkeeper was shot and killed. Madlala says there were already people outside the house soon after the incident and those people assisted them in carrying Meyiwa to the vehicle which transported him to the hospital. Meyiwa was shot and killed in 2014 at an alleged robbery. Madlala further said that the father of one of the occupants in the house, Chicco Thwala, later asked Meyiwa's girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo is she didn't want to go on an overseas holiday.
Gauteng police says they are investigating the motive behind the fatal shooting of six people believed to be illegal foreign miners. The bodies were discovered alongside the N1 freeway at the Maraisburg off-ramp in Bosmont. Gauteng police spokesperson Brenda Muridili says the bodies were discovered and reported by passersby. In a seperate exclusive interview, SABC International news Editor Sophie Mokoena spoke to the Leader of the All Basotho Convention party, Nkaku Kabi who says some Basotho nationals who flock to South Africa do engage in illegal mining activities.
Gauteng police says they are investigating the motive behind the fatal shooting of six people believed to be illegal foreign miners. The bodies were discovered alongside the N1 freeway at the Maraisburg off-ramp in Bosmont. Gauteng police spokesperson Brenda Muridili says the bodies were discovered and reported by passersby. In a seperate exclusive interview, SABC International news Editor Sophie Mokoena spoke to the Leader of the All Basotho Convention party, Nkaku Kabi who says some Basotho nationals who flock to South Africa do engage in illegal mining activities.
The subcommittee of the Portfolio Committee on Communications is undertaking interviews of shortlisted candidates vying for positions within the SABC board. Over 30 shortlisted candidates will be interviewed from today until Friday. This as the term of the current SABC board come to an end next month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Zalene Merington.
The subcommittee of the Portfolio Committee on Communications is undertaking interviews of shortlisted candidates vying for positions within the SABC board. Over 30 shortlisted candidates will be interviewed from today until Friday. This as the term of the current SABC board come to an end next month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Zalene Merington.
The presiding judge in the Senzo Meyiwa trial has ordered that journalists from three media houses leave the courtroom. This comes comes after state raised serious concerns over the heckling of witnesses by some members of the media. State advocate, George Baloyi says such behaviour is unacceptable as Madlala was petrified. Sakina Kamwenso spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni
The presiding judge in the Senzo Meyiwa trial has ordered that journalists from three media houses leave the courtroom. This comes comes after state raised serious concerns over the heckling of witnesses by some members of the media. State advocate, George Baloyi says such behaviour is unacceptable as Madlala was petrified. Sakina Kamwenso spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni
Opposition parties together with civil society organisations are marching to the office of the Public Protector in Pretoria. They are demanding that the acting public protecter release the Phala Phala report. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe...
Opposition parties together with civil society organisations are marching to the office of the Public Protector in Pretoria. They are demanding that the acting public protecter release the Phala Phala report. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe...
Numsa has called on the Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula to withdraw government's subsidy to the bus company PUTCO. This follows the decision by PUTCO to dismiss some of the workers that have embarked on an industrial action over wages and the non-payment of a six percent increase which was allegedly agreed upon back in 2020. Numsa accuses PUTCO of frustrating workers by applying for partial exemption from the agreement instead of implementing it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Numsa's spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola.
Numsa has called on the Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula to withdraw government's subsidy to the bus company PUTCO. This follows the decision by PUTCO to dismiss some of the workers that have embarked on an industrial action over wages and the non-payment of a six percent increase which was allegedly agreed upon back in 2020. Numsa accuses PUTCO of frustrating workers by applying for partial exemption from the agreement instead of implementing it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Numsa's spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola.
Prince Charles, the eldest son of Britain's late Queen Elizabeth, is expected back in London today where he will officially be named King Charles III. The former Prince of Wales takes over as the head of the Commonwealth and will be proclaimed as King at St James's Palace today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to correspondent in London, Ross Cullen
Prince Charles, the eldest son of Britain's late Queen Elizabeth, is expected back in London today where he will officially be named King Charles III. The former Prince of Wales takes over as the head of the Commonwealth and will be proclaimed as King at St James's Palace today. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to correspondent in London, Ross Cullen
The Gqeberha High Court is expected to make a ruling on the application filed by the Northern Alliance councillors for a review against the IEC to amend the party's PR List. The three councillors names were removed on the list after the City Manager declare a vacancy on their names in council, on the instruction of the party's Secretary. The councillors were granted an interim order to participate in council activities pending the outcome of this review. Yesterday the municipality appealed the interim order against the councillors which led to the adjournment of the council meeting. The meeting was going to debate a motion of no confidence against the Mayor Eugene Johnson. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Mcebisi Mngqina
The Gqeberha High Court is expected to make a ruling on the application filed by the Northern Alliance councillors for a review against the IEC to amend the party's PR List. The three councillors names were removed on the list after the City Manager declare a vacancy on their names in council, on the instruction of the party's Secretary. The councillors were granted an interim order to participate in council activities pending the outcome of this review. Yesterday the municipality appealed the interim order against the councillors which led to the adjournment of the council meeting. The meeting was going to debate a motion of no confidence against the Mayor Eugene Johnson. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Mcebisi Mngqina
The Communication Workers Union has expressed concern after the South African Post Office stopped paying crucial benefits such as medical aid for over 14-thousand employees. The union alleges that the workers have been left in limbo with some being slapped with medical schemes bills from service providers after the employer failed to settle their bills with medical practitioners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Communications Workers Union general secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala.
The Communication Workers Union has expressed concern after the South African Post Office stopped paying crucial benefits such as medical aid for over 14-thousand employees. The union alleges that the workers have been left in limbo with some being slapped with medical schemes bills from service providers after the employer failed to settle their bills with medical practitioners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Communications Workers Union general secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala.
Parliament's Section 194 Inquiry looking into the fitness to hold office of the suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane has resumed today. Mkhwebane's legal counsel, Advocate Dali Mpofu has been engaging with the manager of legal services at Mkhwebane's office, Muntu Sithole. Sithole has served the Public Protector's office both under former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela and Mkhwebane. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter,Joseph Mossia
Parliament's Section 194 Inquiry looking into the fitness to hold office of the suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane has resumed today. Mkhwebane's legal counsel, Advocate Dali Mpofu has been engaging with the manager of legal services at Mkhwebane's office, Muntu Sithole. Sithole has served the Public Protector's office both under former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela and Mkhwebane. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter,Joseph Mossia
Counsel for the 5th accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, advocate Zandile Mshololo has brought an application to the High Court in Pretoria over alleged irregularities. This after she received a copy of the second docket which implicates the people who were in the house when Meyiwa was shot in Vosloorus. A decision on the docket will however be made after the current trial has been finalised. Mshololo argues her client would have pleaded differently had they had the docket before the trial began. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Counsel for the 5th accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, advocate Zandile Mshololo has brought an application to the High Court in Pretoria over alleged irregularities. This after she received a copy of the second docket which implicates the people who were in the house when Meyiwa was shot in Vosloorus. A decision on the docket will however be made after the current trial has been finalised. Mshololo argues her client would have pleaded differently had they had the docket before the trial began. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Limpopo police have launched a manhunt after five women were allegedly gang-raped during a business robbery at two funeral parlours situated next to each other along the R37 road near Malipsdrift. One man was shot and injured while six others were brutally assaulted by a group of the armed suspects who stormed into two funeral parlours, robbed employees of their cellphones and other belongings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo.
Limpopo police have launched a manhunt after five women were allegedly gang-raped during a business robbery at two funeral parlours situated next to each other along the R37 road near Malipsdrift. One man was shot and injured while six others were brutally assaulted by a group of the armed suspects who stormed into two funeral parlours, robbed employees of their cellphones and other belongings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo.
The City of Johannesburg says in a fight against corruption, it will begin conducting lifestyle audits on all its councillors and senior executives. The initiative which begins this month, has been championed by the city's multi-party coalition government under the mayorship of DA councillor, Dr Mpho Phalatse. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services at the City of Johannesburg, Leah Knott
ActionSA in Johannesburg says the ousting of council speaker last night Vasco Da Gama is a minor obstacle and that the multi-party coalition remains committed to working together. Action SA has since condemned the action of what calls a handful of councillors who acted in their own selfish interests. Reports of allegations of vote-buying have been rife with the ACDP investigating some of its councillors. Sakina Kamwendo spokes to ActionSA's Joburg Caucus chairperson, councillor Funzi Ngobeni
Power utility, Eskom says it is considering disconnecting the City of Tshwane after the city failed to settle its R1.6 Billion bill which was due on the 17th of August 2022. The utility says this is one of the necessary steps in securing outstanding payment from the metro which has only paid R68 million to date. The City says while it acknoledges the debt, it has faced challenges including the fact that on average residents pay the city in 60-day cycles while Eskom expects payment in 15 days. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng, Eskom spokesperson Amanda Qithi,
Power utility, Eskom says it is considering disconnecting the City of Tshwane after the city failed to settle its R1.6 Billion bill which was due on the 17th of August 2022. The utility says this is one of the necessary steps in securing outstanding payment from the metro which has only paid R68 million to date. The City says while it acknoledges the debt, it has faced challenges including the fact that on average residents pay the city in 60-day cycles while Eskom expects payment in 15 days. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng, Eskom spokesperson Amanda Qithi,
Non-governmental organisation, Corruption Watch says reports of education-related corruption represented 10% of the total number of reports the organisation received between the years, 2012 and 2021. In a report titled Sound the Alarm, the organisation says it found widespread allegations of corruption in the sector including 3 417 reports at primary and secondary school level, 183 at SETA level and 67 at technical, vocational, education and training colleges. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Corruption Watch senior researcher and author of the report, Melusi Ncala.
Non-governmental organisation, Corruption Watch says reports of education-related corruption represented 10% of the total number of reports the organisation received between the years, 2012 and 2021. In a report titled Sound the Alarm, the organisation says it found widespread allegations of corruption in the sector including 3 417 reports at primary and secondary school level, 183 at SETA level and 67 at technical, vocational, education and training colleges. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Corruption Watch senior researcher and author of the report, Melusi Ncala.
The health MEC in Limpopo Dr Phophi Ramathuba has defended her comments on the strain her department is under when having to service both locals and immigrants at the province's health facilities. Dr Ramapthuba made the comments in a video which has since gone viral across social media platforms. In the video, she is heard telling the patient her country must take responsibility for her health issues, adding that Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa does not contribute to Limpopo's health budget. Meanwhile... The Economic Freedom Fighters have for the immediate removal of the MEC describing her comments as hateful. Sakina Spoke to EFF national spokesperson, Sinawo Tambo
South Africa's official unemployment rate has declined to 33.9% in the second quarter of 2022. This is 0.6 percentage points lower than the 34.5% rate in the previous quarter. Data from statistics South Africa has surprised market expectations showing a decrease in the second quarter of 2022. The new survey showed that the economy added 648- thousand jobs between the two quarters. The market has expected unemployment to increase to 35 percent. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to COSATU spokesperson, Sizwe Pamla
South Africa's official unemployment rate has declined to 33.9% in the second quarter of 2022. This is 0.6 percentage points lower than the 34.5% rate in the previous quarter. Data from statistics South Africa has surprised market expectations showing a decrease in the second quarter of 2022. The new survey showed that the economy added 648- thousand jobs between the two quarters. The market has expected unemployment to increase to 35 percent. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to COSATU spokesperson, Sizwe Pamla
Eastern Cape health officials have condemned an attack on female nurses and staff at the Uitenhage Provincial Hospital at the weekend. This after staff at the facility were left traumatised following an attack by three men on Sunday. Its alleged three men had brought in a friend who was shot and demanded that the nurses fetch him from their car. One of the nurses was assaulted as the suspects. Threatened that if their friend dies, they would come back to kill everyone at the trauma unit. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to health department spokesperson Yonela Dekeda...
King Misuzulu ka-Zwelithini will tomorrow be performing the ritual called Ukungena Esibayeni, loosely translated as Entering the Kraal. The family says this is a significant step towards the coronation where the King is introduced to the ancestors as he prepares to ascend the throne. The ritual will take place at KwaKhangelamankengana palace in KwaNomngoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Khalesakhe Mbhense and Cultutral Expert, Professor Siha-wukele Ngubane
King Misuzulu ka-Zwelithini will tomorrow be performing the ritual called Ukungena Esibayeni, loosely translated as Entering the Kraal. The family says this is a significant step towards the coronation where the King is introduced to the ancestors as he prepares to ascend the throne. The ritual will take place at KwaKhangelamankengana palace in KwaNomngoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Khalesakhe Mbhense and Cultutral Expert, Professor Siha-wukele Ngubane
Another fight between groups of learners has caused havoc at Ngwenze Senior Secondary School in Dutywa in the Eastern Cape .The Learners who are from Xawuka location and Bolotwa Administrative Area are fighting with learners from Silityiwa location. The schools' principal Lihle Mzimba says some learners from Silityiwa are not attending school because they are afraid. He says they are using dangerous weapons and stones during the fights. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi...
Another fight between groups of learners has caused havoc at Ngwenze Senior Secondary School in Dutywa in the Eastern Cape .The Learners who are from Xawuka location and Bolotwa Administrative Area are fighting with learners from Silityiwa location. The schools' principal Lihle Mzimba says some learners from Silityiwa are not attending school because they are afraid. He says they are using dangerous weapons and stones during the fights. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi...
The bail application of two men accused of the murder of Hillary Gardee has been postponed to the 2nd of September. This comes as police in Mpumalanga have said that they are confident that they will provide the NPA with an expert statement linking the fifth suspect to the murder case. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday but was later released. The National Prosecuting Authority has provisionally withdrawn the case against the suspect. Police Spokesperson Selvy Mohlala says the suspect used the deceased's laptop after she was murdered. Mohlala says the suspect will be subpoenaed once police have submitted the expert statement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi-
The bail application of two men accused of the murder of Hillary Gardee has been postponed to the 2nd of September. This comes as police in Mpumalanga have said that they are confident that they will provide the NPA with an expert statement linking the fifth suspect to the murder case. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday but was later released. The National Prosecuting Authority has provisionally withdrawn the case against the suspect. Police Spokesperson Selvy Mohlala says the suspect used the deceased's laptop after she was murdered. Mohlala says the suspect will be subpoenaed once police have submitted the expert statement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi-
A section of Parliament's entrance which was cordoned off has been reopened following a parcel that was dropped of by a person just outside 90 Plein Building. Earlier police did not rule out that the parcel might be potential explosives. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary Correspondent, Mercedes Besent.
A fifth suspect in the murder case of Hilary Gardee is expected to make his court appearance today at the Nelspruit Magistrate's court in Mpumalanga. The suspect, a Nigerian national was taken in for questioning on Sunday and placed under arrest Yesterday. This brings to five the total number of people arrested in relation to the murder case. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter in court, Tumelo Machogo
here continues to be mixed reaction to the decision to ban all movement of cattles in the country in order to contain the outbreak of food and mouth disease. Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza suspended the movement of cattle from one property to another for 21-days. However there are exceptions for cattle meant for direct slaughter at registered abattoirs and slaughter for ritual purposes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Animal Health Director at the Agriculture department, Dr Mpho Maja
The close working relationship between the office of the Public Protector and the State Security Agency has come to light at the impeachment hearing of Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Acting head of corporate services at the office of the Public Protector, Gumbi Tyelela has told the hearing how an official from the SSA was seconded to the PPSA after the then Chief Operations Officer Kennedy Kaposa left. Kaposa left after reaching an agreement with the Public Protector and was paid twelve months settlement to leave. He was initially charged with derelection of duty. Other witnesses have also spoken about the interactions between the Public Protector's office and the State Security agency. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Joseph Mosia
The newly elected ANC North West Chairperson, Nono Baloyi has called on party members to unite behind the leadership of the province. Maloyi who defeated the current premier, Bushy Maape for the position of the ANC provincial chairperson, was delivering his acceptance speech at the party's provincial elective conference in Rustenburg. Other members elected with Maloyi, include his deputy Lazzy Mokgosi, Louis Diremelo is the provincial secretary while his deputy is Viola Motsumi. Sello Lehari who defeated Lena Miga is the new ANC provincial treasurer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo and political analyst from the Faculty of Political Science at Unisa, Professor Dirk Kotze.
The newly elected ANC North West Chairperson, Nono Baloyi has called on party members to unite behind the leadership of the province. Maloyi who defeated the current premier, Bushy Maape for the position of the ANC provincial chairperson, was delivering his acceptance speech at the party's provincial elective conference in Rustenburg. Other members elected with Maloyi, include his deputy Lazzy Mokgosi, Louis Diremelo is the provincial secretary while his deputy is Viola Motsumi. Sello Lehari who defeated Lena Miga is the new ANC provincial treasurer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo and political analyst from the Faculty of Political Science at Unisa, Professor Dirk Kotze.
Trade union AMCU says over 20-thousand people are expected to attend the tenth Marikana commemoration at the infamous Koppie in the North West. The program kicked off earlier today and we shall take you live to some of the proceedings at a later stage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Itumeleng Kgajane
Trade union AMCU says over 20-thousand people are expected to attend the tenth Marikana commemoration at the infamous Koppie in the North West. The program kicked off earlier today and we shall take you live to some of the proceedings at a later stage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Itumeleng Kgajane
Non Profit Organisation, Right2Know Campaign has staged a picket outside the offices of the National Prosecuting Authority in Pretoria in protest against the non-prosecution of the police officers who shot and killed 34 striking Lonmin Mine workers on 16 August 2012. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Right2Know's Sthembiso Khuluse, he is the National Programs Coordinator
Non Profit Organisation, Right2Know Campaign has staged a picket outside the offices of the National Prosecuting Authority in Pretoria in protest against the non-prosecution of the police officers who shot and killed 34 striking Lonmin Mine workers on 16 August 2012. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Right2Know's Sthembiso Khuluse, he is the National Programs Coordinator
Parliament's Section 194 Committee which is currently probing the Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office, has declined her request for the committee to subpoena President Cyril Ramaphosa to appear before it. Earlier today, former Senior Investigator in the Private Office of the Public Protector, Advocate Nditsheni Raedani, told the committee that former Free State Premier, Ace Magashule and former Agriculture MEC, Mosebenzi Zwane, did not act on Treasury's instruction to prevent further procurement irregularities in controversial Vrede Diary Project. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary Correspondent, Joseph Mosia
Parliament's Section 194 Committee which is currently probing the Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office, has declined her request for the committee to subpoena President Cyril Ramaphosa to appear before it. Earlier today, former Senior Investigator in the Private Office of the Public Protector, Advocate Nditsheni Raedani, told the committee that former Free State Premier, Ace Magashule and former Agriculture MEC, Mosebenzi Zwane, did not act on Treasury's instruction to prevent further procurement irregularities in controversial Vrede Diary Project. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary Correspondent, Joseph Mosia
The Durban Magistrate's court has granted R3000 bail to 20 alleged instigators who have been charged with public violence in relation to last year's unrest in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. The Hawks say efforts by a multi-disciplinary team led to the arrests in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, North West, Free State, Western Cape and the Northern Cape.It is alleged that the suspects used social media and other platforms to incite public violence. Over 350 people died as a result of the violence, with R50 billion lost in damage to businesses and infrastructure. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC Reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe.
The Durban Magistrate's court has granted R3000 bail to 20 alleged instigators who have been charged with public violence in relation to last year's unrest in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. The Hawks say efforts by a multi-disciplinary team led to the arrests in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, North West, Free State, Western Cape and the Northern Cape.It is alleged that the suspects used social media and other platforms to incite public violence. Over 350 people died as a result of the violence, with R50 billion lost in damage to businesses and infrastructure. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC Reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe.
The attorney for parliament arson accused, Zandile Mafe, has told the High Court in Cape Town that his client is on a hunger strike. Mafe was scheduled to appear in court for a pre-trail conference today but refused to enter the dock from the holding cells. Mafe came to court in pyjamas and reportedly lay firm on the ground not cooperating with the bailiff. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli.
The attorney for parliament arson accused, Zandile Mafe, has told the High Court in Cape Town that his client is on a hunger strike. Mafe was scheduled to appear in court for a pre-trail conference today but refused to enter the dock from the holding cells. Mafe came to court in pyjamas and reportedly lay firm on the ground not cooperating with the bailiff. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mlamli Maneli.
Rand Water says its hard at work with its integration of a newly installed S4 pipeline that will see water disruptions to at least six of Gauteng municipalities. The 53-hour planned water outage began last night as part of Rand Water's strategy to refurbish and upgrade its infrastructure for sustainable purposes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Manager of one of the water plants at Rand Water, Eddie Singo
Rand Water says its hard at work with its integration of a newly installed S4 pipeline that will see water disruptions to at least six of Gauteng municipalities. The 53-hour planned water outage began last night as part of Rand Water's strategy to refurbish and upgrade its infrastructure for sustainable purposes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Manager of one of the water plants at Rand Water, Eddie Singo
ActionSA president, Herman Mashaba has expressed shock and horror after a member of his family was found brutally killed on Wednesday. Mashaba says his wife's aunt was raped and murdered by two men in North West on Saturday. The body of the 77-year-old woman was only discovered on Wednesday as she lived alone. Mashaba was speaking to the media outside the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court where seven people linked to the gang-rape of eight women last month, are expected to appear. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Reporter, Tshepo Phagane.
ActionSA president, Herman Mashaba has expressed shock and horror after a member of his family was found brutally killed on Wednesday. Mashaba says his wife's aunt was raped and murdered by two men in North West on Saturday. The body of the 77-year-old woman was only discovered on Wednesday as she lived alone. Mashaba was speaking to the media outside the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court where seven people linked to the gang-rape of eight women last month, are expected to appear. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Reporter, Tshepo Phagane.
The lead investigator who assisted the Public Protector in the CIEX report, advocate Livhuwani Tshiwalule, says unbeknownst to him, there were changes made to the final report. Tshiwalule is appearing before Parliament's Section 194 committee that is investigating suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane 's fitness to hold office. The report had recommended that Absa must repay one-point-125 billion rand for a lifeboat by the reserve bank during Apartheid. It was later reviewed and set aside by the Pretoria High court. Tshiwalule, who worked with the former PP, Thuli Madonsela, on the report, changed jobs in 2017 after handing over a preliminary report to his successor. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary correspondent, Zalene Merrington.
The lead investigator who assisted the Public Protector in the CIEX report, advocate Livhuwani Tshiwalule, says unbeknownst to him, there were changes made to the final report. Tshiwalule is appearing before Parliament's Section 194 committee that is investigating suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane 's fitness to hold office. The report had recommended that Absa must repay one-point-125 billion rand for a lifeboat by the reserve bank during Apartheid. It was later reviewed and set aside by the Pretoria High court. Tshiwalule, who worked with the former PP, Thuli Madonsela, on the report, changed jobs in 2017 after handing over a preliminary report to his successor. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary correspondent, Zalene Merrington.
The two men accused of the murder of the mayor of the Collins Chabane Municipality, Moses Maluleke have abandoned their bail application in the Malamulele Magistrate's Court in Limpopo. Maluleke was gunned down at his home in Xikundu village last month. The accused, Avhatakali Mulaudzi and Shumani Nemadodzi, have had their case postponed to the 19th of next month for further investigations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Katlego Nyoni.
The two men accused of the murder of the mayor of the Collins Chabane Municipality, Moses Maluleke have abandoned their bail application in the Malamulele Magistrate's Court in Limpopo. Maluleke was gunned down at his home in Xikundu village last month. The accused, Avhatakali Mulaudzi and Shumani Nemadodzi, have had their case postponed to the 19th of next month for further investigations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Katlego Nyoni.
Some of the suspects arrested in Krugersdorp, west of Johannesburg, have been positively linked to the rape of 8 women, last month. The 81 men are appearing at the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court. The women were part of production crew shooting a music video at an abandoned mine dump when they were gang-raped. The matter was postponed was earlier postponed to today to allow the state to conclude DNA testing and for an identity parade to be conducted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke
Some of the suspects arrested in Krugersdorp, west of Johannesburg, have been positively linked to the rape of 8 women, last month. The 81 men are appearing at the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court. The women were part of production crew shooting a music video at an abandoned mine dump when they were gang-raped. The matter was postponed was earlier postponed to today to allow the state to conclude DNA testing and for an identity parade to be conducted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke
ActionSA says it will continue to work on growing the party despite the immediate dissolution of its Provincial Executive Committee in KwaZulu-Natal. The party in the province has been marred lately by internal squabbles which saw resignations of regional chairpersons such as Muhammad Khan and Busisiwe Ntshingila from the eThekwini region. Ntshingila likened ActionSA to the ANC in her resignation, detailing how she does not believe the party is the change that it portrays itself as. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ActionSa's chairperson, Michael Beaumont.
ActionSA says it will continue to work on growing the party despite the immediate dissolution of its Provincial Executive Committee in KwaZulu-Natal. The party in the province has been marred lately by internal squabbles which saw resignations of regional chairpersons such as Muhammad Khan and Busisiwe Ntshingila from the eThekwini region. Ntshingila likened ActionSA to the ANC in her resignation, detailing how she does not believe the party is the change that it portrays itself as. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ActionSa's chairperson, Michael Beaumont.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has emphasized the importance of road maintenance - as government embarks on a project to repair potholes nationwide. Operation Vala Zonke is part of a 16-month campaign with SANRAL. In this speacial outside broadcast, the team took to the Vaal to witness first-hand the launch of this project...
One person has reportedly died in Kagiso as residents are protesting against illegal miners operating in the area. Police are currently in Kagiso firing rubber bullets on the protesting community. The protest comes after eight women were raped in nearby Krugersdorp last week. Since then police have conducted three operations, arresting over 120 men and boys. Udo Carelse spoke to police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza and SABC News reporter, Sashin Naidoo.
Former Democratic Alliance member, Makashule Gana says he holds no resentment towards the party after he resigned from the organisation, as well as from his position at the Gauteng Provincial Legislature. Gana joins a long list of black leaders who have left the DA over the years, including Phumzile van Damme, Mmusi Maimane, Bongani Baloyi and Mbali Ntuli. Udo Carelse spoke to political analyst, Dr Dale McKinley
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has arrested about 30 people for possession.of about 300 sassa cards in Springs mall, east of Johannesburg (East Rand). The individuals believed to be loan sharks were also in possession of more than R100-thousand. Udo Carelse spoke to SASSA spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi
The Nelspruit Magistrate's court in Mpumalanga has denied bail to one of the three men accused of killing, Hillary Gardee. Sipho Mkhatshwa and his co-accused, Philemon Lukhele and Mduduzi Gama are facing charges of kidnapping, murder, rape, defeating the ends of justice and conspiracy to commit murder. Lukhele and Gama have separately applied to be released on bail. The accused were arrested after Gardee's body was found in a timber plantation a few kilometers outside Mbombela in May. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Eric Lubisi
GBV activists and several political parties have gathered outside the Krugersdorp magistrate's court this morning, ahead of the appearance of more than 80-suspects who were arrested over the weekend. The suspects were arrested following the gang rape of 8 women, who were part of a production crew, shooting a music video. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
Former EFF secretary-general, Godrich Gardee has has accused Eswatini Monarch, Mswati the 3rd, of used foreign intelligence to kill his daughter, Hillary Gardee. He says his twitter account has not been hacked, adding that he stands by tweets he posted on his official page on Tuesday morning in which he notes how on the 12th of April 2022, he led a protest which saw four borders with Eswatini being shutdown for more than 6 hours. This protest, Gardee alleges, angered the King of eSwatini and who allegedly unleashed his foreign intelligence services with a robbery decoy resulting in the death of his daughter, Hilary. Sakina Kamwendo plays a clip from a speech made by Gardee at the protest back in April 2022. Sakina Kamwendo also spoke to Eswatini Government Spokesperson, Alpheous Nxumalo
The ANC's National Executive Committee has made calls for locals to find alternative ways to access a sustainable supply of electricity. The NEC held a meeting last weekend to be briefed about the Eskom power crisis. Eskom recently announced that it would implement stage 5 load shedding and that rolling blackouts will continue through to the weekend. The company blames this on the unprotected strike by workers and the breakdowns at power plants. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe
A near-fatal incident has been uncovered at SAAFlight SA052 that flew from Johannesburg to Accra, Ghana, on 14 April 2022. When the plane was refuelled in Accra, the engines would not start. Investigation revealed water in the fuel which could have caused both engines to flame out and crash. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Managing Editor at SA Flyer Magazine, Guy Leitch
The agricultural sector has warned that loadshedding may lead to further increases in the price of food as a consequence of rising production costs. Executive director at AgriSA, Christo van der Rheede says power outages contribute to inflation and may result in farmers planting less due to disruptions in planting schedules. This comes as the country concludes a second week of scheduled Stage 6 power cuts. South Africans are already feeling the pinch amid record-high fuel and food prices. SSakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive director at AgriSA, Christo van der Rheede
British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson is reportedly expected to resign as Conservative Party leader today. British media are reporting that Johnson will be replaced by a new Prime Minister in time for the Tory party conference in October. This follows the mass resignations of over 50 ministers and aides after Johnson's integrity was called to question. He was recently forced to apologise for appointing a lawmaker who had been the subject of sexual misconduct complaints. Sakina Kamwendo dpoke to SABC corresponded in London, Laura Makin-Isherwood
The families of 21 young people who died at Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park in East London, have paid their final respects at the official mass funeral of the teenagers. The youngest of those killed at the tarven was born in 2008, while the oldest was born in 2001. Nineteen empty coffins are at the symbolic funeral as only two families will bury their children today and another was buried yesterday. The bodies will then be released to families with most indicating that burials will be held between Thursday and Sunday. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the Eulogy at the funeral any moment now. For a look at some of the cultural rituals that may be followed by some families in such instances, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cultural Expert from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Professor Nogwaja Zulu
ANC Veteran Mavuso Msimang has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to step aside pending investigation into the 2020 robbery at his Phala Phala farm in Limpopo. Currrently the president and his office have chosen not to comment on the matter saying they would rather allow relevant law enforcement agencies to investigate. Sakina Kamwendo to SABC reporter Ntebo Mokobo.
Labour unions representating Eskom workers are expected to give feedback on whether or not their members have accepted management's 7% salary increase offer. National Union of Mineworkers Energy Sector co-ordinator, Khangela Baloyi earlier said that the union planned to hold a council meeting with the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa to consider the offer by the employer after the unions demanded 10% and 12% wage increases, respectively. Sakina Kamwendo to National Union of Mineworkers spokesperson, Livhuwani Mammburu..
Preparations are under way for the funeral of 21 young people who died at Enyobeni tavern at Scenery Park in East London in the Eastern Cape. Engineers are on site erecting a marquee that will host mourners during the funeral service scheduled for tomorrow. President Cyril Ramaposa is expected to attend the funeral. The young people died more than a week ago. Police are yet to release the results of the forensic tests conducted to determine the cause of deaths. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Lubabalo Dada.
The four police officers who were accused of fatally shooting Mthokozisi Ntumba have been found not guilty on all counts. The defense had brought an application to have all counts dismissed. Ntumba had been shot during a students' protest in Braamfontein, in March last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Hasina Gori
With petrol and diesel prices at record levels. Motorist are reportedly being fleeced their hard earned cash through paying for litres they do not receive. South African Petroleum Retailers Association national director Vishal Premlall sent the Update@Noon team a voice note explain the organisation's stance on the claims. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Automobile Association (AA) spokesperson Layton Beard
As the country reels from the implementation of Stage 6 load shedding, a Gauteng family is in mourning as it claims an unscheduled power cut led to the death of one of their loved ones. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Chriselda Lewis who visited Vereeniging where the Munting family is their son passed away when his ventilator went off due to load shedding.
Businesses and households are calling on government to find a lasting solution to end the rolling blackouts. Eskom yesterday announced the move to stage 6 loadshedding. This is due to an unprotected wage strike. Eskom however confirmed this morning that many of its employees are returning to work while wage negotiations continue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City Power Spokesperson, Isaac Mangena
Proceedings at the much anticipated Pan African Parliament have been delayed due to load shedding in Midrand Johannesburg. The election of PAP new leadership was scheduled to have begun at 9am but could not go ahead following the to power outage. Pan African Parliament member, Pemmy Majodina says this area should have been exempted from load shedding. Earlier, Malawian member of the Pan African Parliament, Yeremiah Chihana called on the continent to follow the rules of African Union. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Khaya Khumalo....
Following the conclusion of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into State Capture and the handing over of the commission's final report, the question is: Where to from here? A group of advocates is proposing that South Africa consider adopting a conditional amnesty process for those who committed acts of corruption during the era of State Capture. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to members of Group One Advocates and the Johannesburg Bar Advocates Gavin Rome SC and Sechaba Mohapi
Eskom has warned of the possibille Stage Six rolling blackouts by this evening. Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter says the grid is under pressure as the strike by some of its staff continues at power plants.The Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Analsyt at Futuregrowth Asset Management, Bongile James.
The family of a 15-year-old girl who was among patrons at the Enyobeni tavern in Scenery Park in the Eastern Cape on Saturday, say the deadly incident has left emotional scars on those who survived. The girl, who is from Orange Grove in East London, has told family that she and a few friends hired minibuses to drop them off at the tavern on Saturday night, just hours before 21 young people were found dead inside the venue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a friend of the 15-year-old's family.
It's over two weeks since six year old Khaya Magadla fell into the manhole. Magadla was playing soccer with his friends in Dlamini Park when he fell into the exposed manhole. Rescue teams consisting of EMS Aquatic Rescue Unit, police divers, a rescue dog, Joburg Water technicians, paramedics and JMPD officers have gone through almost all manholes in the area in search of the boy without any luck. Joburg Emergency Medical Services spokesperson, Robert Muluadzi says there are no plans to call off the search
Congress of the People (COPE) has laid criminal charges of corruption against the former Director General of State Security Agency Arthur Fraser at Brooklyn police station, in Pretoria. The charges were laid this morning,at the Brooklyn Police Station in Pretoria. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to COPE National Spokesperson Dennis Bloem.
It's that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly. Here is Martin explaining how the small diamond producers' organisation this week expressed determination to grow and create jobs. ...
The Durban Magistrates Court has granted R2000 bail to a Durban police officer who alledly shot and killed his 12-year-old son at their home. The officer is alleged to have mistaken the boy for an intruder. The child is to be buried this weekend and the officer has appealed to be allowed to attend his funeral. SABC reporter, Nonhlakanipho Magwaza has the details...
The African National Congress in Gauteng says it's all systems go as it begins its 14th Gauteng Elective Conference in Benoni, east of Johannesburg today. The conference is expected to see over one-thousand delegates vote for the party's new provincial leadership amid concerns over disputed branches in some of the regions. Last month, the party announced elected officials from the Ekurhuleni regional conference, despite what was then thought to be five dispute branches. Earlier this week, a report by NEC member, Jeff Radebe into allegations of irregularities in the lead-up to the conference, uncovered that there were 27 disputed branches instead of the reported five. The front runners for the position of provincial chairperson are current Deputy Chair, Panyaza Lesufi and Provincial Executive Committee member, Lebogang Maile. ANC Gauteng Spokesperson, Bones Modise...
State Capture Commission Chairperson, Justice Raymond Zondo has handed over the fifth anbd final installment of the much-awaited State Capture report to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The report has made damning findings against a number of high-profile politicians and role players at State Owned Entity's for their roles in the capture of the state. Among some of his recommendations, Justice Zondo recommends that law enforcement agencies conduct investigations with a view to prosecute Transnet board members or officials for agreeing to unjustifiably increase the price amounting to R740-million in relation to the procurement of 100 electric locomotives from the Chinese company CRS. He has also recommended that Ramaphosa take urgent steps in all cases relating to corruption at the passenger rail agency of South Africa. SABC News Specialist Researcher, Maswele Ralebona breaks the report down for us...
The ruling party says it is engaging with the findings and recommendations of the of the final segment of the state capture report in order to enhance its renewal program within the liberation movement. The party adds that plans are in place to specifically target parts of the commission report that relate to the organisation, its deployees and members. ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe adds that party members implicated in alleged corruption are required to make representations to the party's Integrity Committee. Mabe joins us on the line for further details together with DA chief whip Natasha Mazzone and EFF Treasury General Omphile Maotwe...
South Africans has announced that the first case of Monkeypox has been detected in the country - saying a 30-year-old man with no travel history was confirmed to have been infected. Health Minister Joe Phahla also adds that there is no longer need to wear face masks as part of the COVID-19 regulations and that government has dropped limits on public gatherings and border checks. Phaahla was briefing the media following the outcomes of yesterday's Cabinet meeting...
The department of Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal says it has removed a 19-year-old pregnant woman from her grandparents' home in Inanda following the arrest of her 78-year-old grandfather who allegedly groomed her as a sex slave for years. The man is expected to appear before the Ntuzuma Magistrate Court today on a number of charges including rape after he allegedly began forcing himself on the victim five years ago. For more on this we are joined on the line by KwaZulu-Natal department of Social Development spokesperson, Mhlaba Memela..
Truckers Association of South Africa president, Mary Phadi has emphasised the importance of regulating the industry amid the association's call for an urgent reintroduction of operating licences in South Africa. This follows an agreement that industry stakeholders signed with the Road and Freight Inter-Ministerial Committee at the weekend. The Road Freight Association, a signatory to the agreement, has since defiantly stated that it will never agree with the proposed licenses. RFA CEO, Gavin Kelly told SABCNews yesterday that they questioned why the implimenting agent for the proposed licenses will be the Truckers Association of South Africa. Speaking following the stakeholder meeting, TASA president, Mary Phadi said regulating the sector was vital...she further elaborates...
The ANC in Gauteng says it is waiting on its highest decision body, its National Executive Committee to make the final pronouncement on the outcome of the Ekurhuleni Regional Conference. This as the party looks ahead to holding its provincial elective conference from tomorrow. Deputy chairperson of the party in the province, Panyaza Lesufi says despite the uncertainty over the outcome of the Ekurhuleni conference, all branches of the party across the province will take part in the conference...
Leader of the African Christian Democratic Party, Reverend Kenneth Meshoe has called for the halting of the latest salary increases for politicians and government officials. This as members of both parliament and the National Council of Provinces are to receive a three percent salary increase despite the public outcry from civil society and unions. The salary increase will also see both ministers and their deputies receiving a little extra for their duties come month end. ACDP, Reverend Kenneth Meshoe says the increases should be put on hold until the economy recovers. He is joined also joined by senior research fellow and political economist at Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko her her insights...
Associations and unions in the trucking and logistics industry together with government's interministerial committee have reached an agreement to bring about stability in the sector. The agreement includes the formation of integrated joint multi-disciplinary law enforcement operations and the possible introduction of operating licenses. The agreement comes after truck drivers blocked the N3 highway in KwaZulu-Natal over the hiring of illegal foreign drivers. Naledi Ngcobo has teh details...
Meanwhile, the Road Freight Association says it has objections to parts of the Road and Freight Inter-Ministerial Committee's recently signed 11-point plan to plan. The association says it does not agree with the proposed introduction of of operating licences. CEO of the Road Freight Association, Gavin Kelly explains further...
Chief Justice and Chairperson of the State Capture Commission, Raymond Zondo has denied any malice in the delayed release of the State Capture report. This after the Democratic Alliance said it was deeply disturbed by reports that Ramaphosa met with Zondo to discuss the release of the report. Ramaphosa's spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, confirmed that the president and Zondo had discussed the timing of the handing over of the report on Monday morning. Political analyst, Dr Dale McKinley shares his thoughts...
DA leader, John Steenhuisen says they will be approaching the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) in the United States of America to investigate possible money laundering against the president Cyril Ramaphosa. Steenshuisen has also called on president Ramaphosa to take the country into confidence and divulge details about the Phala-Phala Game farm saga. Steenhuisen says opposition parties together with civil society must unite in action in calling for the law to take its course and fully investigate what transpired in the matter...
Residents of Ethekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal have been urged to use water sparingly as the metro embarks on scheduled water rotational interruptions. The interruptions expected to stay in place for a year, following demage to water infrustucture left in the wake of the deadly April floods in the province. The municipality's Head of Water and Sanitation, Ednick Msweli has told residents that the April floods were the worst the province has witnessed in over 30 years and that work to repair damaged pipes is expected to be completed by June 2023. Msweli explains...
Police in Mpumalanga are investigating a case of murder and three counts of rape against three minors between the ages of 16 and 17 years. Police spokesperson in Mpumalanga, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala...
The Democratic Republic of Congo has cut ties with Rwanda after accusing it of supporting, financing and arming the M23 rebel group that captured a key town in the east of its country. Rwanda has denied supporting the rebels. The accusation is the latest in the deepening row between the two neighbouring countries. Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor of Political Science at the University of the Western Cape, Professor Bheki Mngomezulu
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department says it has arrested four human frafficking suspects in two separate operations in Johannesburg. In the first incident, police arrested two people after a vehicle with foreign number plates was stopped during patroling in the Johannesburg CBD on Wednesday. The occupants told officers that they paid approximately R3500 per person to be trafficked into the country from Mozambique. In the second incident, four teenage Ethiopian boys were rescued in Meredale, south of Johannesburg after a whistle-blower alerted officers. Elvis Presslin spoke to JMPD spokesperson, Xolani Fihla.
he Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has called for the Gauteng Department of Health to suspend the CEO at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital with immediate effect. This follows reports that whistle-blower and Paediatric Gastroenterologist, Dr Tim de Maayer is expected to be served with a warning letter by the department after he wrote an open letter in which he cited horrendous conditions at public hospitals as contributors to the deaths of children. Elvis Presslin spoke to OUTA CEO, Wayne Duvenage
The N3 Toll Concession says the N3 at Van Reenens Pass on the toll route remains closed to traffic after dozens of truck drivers blockaded the area in protest against foreign labour. The drivers are calling on government to compel local companies to stop hiring foreign truck drivers. Earlier this week, truck drivers blockaded routes in the North West province, among other areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to N3 Toll Concession operations manager, Thania Dhoogra and Chief Executive Officer at Road Freight Association, Gavin Kelly.
The National Assembly has rejected the appointment of the Reverend Frank Chikane as the new Inspector General of Intelligence. The two largest opposition parties, the DA and the EFF, supported by a number of others, voted against Chikane. Two-hundred-and-18 members voted in favour while 113 voted against the motion. This means he failed to get the required 266 votes to give him two thirds support. The main reason advanced was Chikane's proximity to the ruling ANC, having served in its NEC in the past. The EFF says Chikane is out of touch with current developments in the intelligence community and is too old. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC senior Parliamentary Correspondent, Mercedes Bessent
Motorists have been urged to avoid the N12 between Bloemhof and Wolmaranstad in the North West, after truck drivers blockaded the road linking Johannesburg and Cape Town earlier today. The drivers have been in protest since yesterday afternoon in a demand for government to compel local companies to stop hiring foreign truck drivers. North West Transport Management Department spokesperson, Boitshoko Moremi assured the public that law enforcement officers were on the scene ensuring the safety of all road users. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to President of the Truckers Association of South Africa, Mary Phadi.
Auditor General Tsakani Maluleke says the current audit outcomes show no improvement in the state of transparency, accountability, performance or integrity of local government in the country. Maluleke was addressing the media in Pretoria where she called for active citizenry in addressing the challenges faced by municipalities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Zukiswa Kota, Programme Head at the Public Service Accountability Monitor based at Rhodes University in Makhand
Search and rescue operations are underway for a six-year-old boy from Dlamini in Soweto in Johannesburg. The City of Johannesburg's Emergency Services resumed with the search earlier this morning when it was called off last night. The boy was reported missing yesterday afternoon by his friends after falling into manhole. For the latest with regards to the search and rescue operation, we are now joined on the line by the spokesperson of the City of Joburg's Emergency Services, Robert Mulaudzi.
Cape Town Traffic Services says they are continuing to receive reports of road obstructions caused by localised flooding, including on private properties. Traffic Service Spokesperson Kevin Jacobs earlier said the department is harnessing all available resources to mitigate risks caused by the heavy rain. This comes as the city's Disaster Risk Management Centre has warned members of the public to refrain from sharing unsubstantiated information about flooding incidents, as the Metro continues to be battered by heavy downpours. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Disaster Management in the Western Cape, Colin Deiner.
Motorists have been advised to avoid the N3 Route between Villiers and Warden in the Free State as dozens of truck drivers have blockaded the road in protest against the employment of foreign nationals. The N3 Toll Concession says it was informed about the blockade at around 6am on this morning. Earlier this year, the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied SA threatened a national shutdown citing empty promises made by the government regarding the employment of foreign national drivers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied SA Spokesperson, Ncebo Ndlovu.
Police in the Eastern Cape have confirmed that they are offering a two-hundred thousand rand reward for information that could lead to the arrest of those behind the murder of Namhla Mtwa. The 35 year old Mtwa was shot and killed at her aunt's driveway in Mthatha in April. Her killing sparked outrage following the sharing of videos which depicted abuse she suffered allegedly at the hands of her boyfriend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brigadier Thembinkosi Kinana.
Taps are fast running dry in the both the Nelson Mandela Bay metro and the Kouga municipality in the Eastern Cape This after the maintenance team of the municipality discovered that water could no longer be extracted from the Impofu dam due to the low water levels. Numerous areas have already experienced water cuts as residents took to social media platforms to express their frustrations. Update@Noon anchor, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Kim Daniels.
The Democratic Alliance in the Gauteng Province has condemned the suspension of Dr Tim De Maayer who wrote an open letter last month, exposing the terrible conditions of patients at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital here in Johannesburg. The party has called for the reinstatement of Dr de Maayer and the immediate suspension of the hospital's CEO Dr Nozuko Mkabayi, who the DA claims has spent many days working from home instead of fixing the crisis at the institution. For more on this we are joined on the line by DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, Jack Bloom.
This week on the Caolface, Engineering News and Mining Weekely Publishing Editor, Martin Creamer talks first in-person JSE listing since Covid-19, two key mining projects ready to proceed and Namibia goes ahead in the critical minerals field.
The KwaZulu-Natal department of Health has confirmed that DNA tests have been conducted after a 17-year-old mother whose own baby died at birth, was sent home with the incorrect baby. The mother, Phumzile says she only discovered this when the hospital informed her that her child, Andiswa, had in fact died in the nursery at the Prince Mshiyeni Hospital and hospital staff had mistakenly given her someone's living child. Our reporter Nonhlakanipho Magwaza is currently visiting the home of the grieving family in uMlazi in Durban...
Organised crime detectives in Cape Town are probing the death of four men who were shot by unknown gunmen at the Madiba Supermarket in Khayelitsha in Cape Town. According to witnesses, the gunmen stormed into the establishment last night and demanded that customers leave, before they opened fire. Police say three men died on the spot while a fourth succumbed to his injuries in hospital. For more on this we are joined on the line by Our reporter Athule Joka explains...
The murder trial of former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Sinzo Meyiwa runs the risk of facing yet another postponement at the Pretoria High Court. This follows submissions made by defence attorney for accused number 5 Advocate Zandile Mshololo arguing that her client is being prejudices by the state. This after the the state only disclosed the existence of a second docket concerning the case this morning. Advocate Mshololo explains her objections to these latest developments...
Economic Freedom Fighters Leader, Julius Malema has addressed members of the media on a range of issues relating to the political landcape of the country. Malema is also outlined the party's position on the recent developments regarding the criminal case laid againstPresident Cyril Ramaphosa by former Spy boss Arthur Fraser. Let's have a listen...
Hundeds of Tshwane residents affiliated with Operation Dudala splinter group, Tshwane Bahlali Dudula, are currently picketing outside the Lion Match factory in Rosslyn in Tshwane. The group has accused the company of employing more foreign workers than locals. Tshwane Bahlali Dudula has also accused Lion Match management of renaging on an earlier agreement to employ 120 general workers from nearby areas in order to address the inconsistant foreigner to local ratio at the company. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Ofentse Setimo.
Two of the country's largest taxi associations are lobbying trade union COSATU and other civic groups to join in what they have called a necessary national shutdown over recent fuel price hikes. The National Taxi Alliance and SANTACO say the increases have made the cost of living unaffordable and are crippling the public transportation business. Motorists have been up in arms since last week when the price of 93 octane petrol increased by two-rand-43 cents a litre and 95 octane petrol went up by two-rand-33 a litre, among other increases. SANTACO spokesperson, Bafana Magagula explains...
It's that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly. Martin Creamer is publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa is currently picketing outside the offices of airliner, Comair Limited in Rhodesfield in Kempton Park. This comes after the union expressed shock and surprise following a decision by Comair to suspend all of its operations.The airliner announced earlier this week, that it was suspending its kulula.com and British Airways flights until such time as it has successfully secured additional funding. Yesterday, NUMSA met with the airline amid fears of a job blood bath following the latest developments. NUMSA spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola has the details...
Proceedings in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial have been postponed to Monday after state witness, sergeant Thabo Mosia fell ill during his testimony. Earlier, Judge Tshifiwa Maumela had to warned defence counsel for accused one to four, advocate Malesela Teffo to be mindful of his language in court. In a heated exchange of words, advocate Teffo wanted the court to stop the cross-examination of a state witness, sergeant Mosia and commence with a trial within a trial. SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni explains...
Police Minister, Bheki Cele is expected to shortly expand on the latest crime stats which indicate a sharp increase of over 20 percent in recorded murder cases between January and March of 2022. This is according to a presentation by police in parliament ahead of the quarterly crime statistics briefing. Lets dip in the address by Cele...
The discharge application in the assault case of EFF leader and his co-accused and Member of parliament Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has been dismissed by the Randburg Magistrate Court. The two had made the application following several postponements in the case which commenced in 2018. The pair are on trial for the alleged assault of Lieutenant-Colonel Johannes Venter during the burial of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela on 14 April 2018. Reading the judgement, Judge Leiland Poonsamy made the following remarks...
Singer Kelly Khumalo's attorney has accused defence lawyer Malesela Teffo of intimidation and character assassination of her client. She was addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today responding to allegations made by Teffo at the Pretoria High Court that her client, Kelly Khumalo had mistakenly shot her boyfriend and former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa. Teffo dropped a bombshell during yesterday's proceedings by saying he would produce a witness to testify to this allegation. Moonsamy however hitback questioning the existence of what alleged witness
Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has indicated on social media that President Cyril Ramaphosa will communicate in due course on allegations made against him by former State Security Agency and Correctional Services Director General Arthur Fraser. Fraser opened criminal charges against Ramaphosa at the Rosebank Police Station in Johannesburg yesterday. In a statement, Fraser says the charges emanate from the theft of over 4-millions of US dollars by robbers in February 2020, in collusion with a domestic worker, at the President's Phala Phala farm in Waterberg, Limpopo. Police national spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe
The African National Congress in the Ekurhuleni Region is expected know the final count of votes from its elective conference which took place at the weekend. This comes after the party's national and provincial leadership met yesterday following the verification of 19 votes that were quarantined during the counting of votes on Sunday. Former Ekurhuleni Mayor Mzwandile Masina was announced as the reginal chairperson following the vote. ANC Ekurhuleni Region deputy Chairperson, Jongizizwe Dlabathi...
A survey by Action Society indicates that people are scared to stop at roadblocks or checkpoints by police. Action Society's preliminary data in the 'Do you stop for a cop?' survey has shown that less than 10% of South Africans feel safe when pulled over by police. This comes as an cases of criminals posing as the police have been on the rise. Director of Community Safety at Action Society, Ian Cameron explains...
The African Nation Congress in the Gauteng Province is expected to meet with the party's national leadership this afternoon following the verification of 19 quaranteed votes from the Ekurhuleni Region. Last weekend, the region held an elective conference in which former Ekurhuleni Mayor, Mzwandile Masina was re-elected as regional chairperson, despite the 19 votes not having been counted. The party's provincial and national leadership are expected to brief members of the media following their meeting this afternoon. SABC reporter, Ntebo Mokobo has the latest...
The head of the National Prosecuting Authority, Shamila Batohi, says significant progress is being made with regard to investigating TRC prosecutions. She appeared before Parliament's Justice and Correctional Services Committee to brief it on progress made in dealing with the cases. Batohi says a dedicated desk has been established in the NPA to ensure that urgent attention is given to these matters …
Economists have warned consumers to brace themselves to a further increase in the cost of living ahead the expected increase in a number of items this week, including the price of fuel. The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group announced that the average cost in the country's Household Food Basket increased by R66.96 in May, to R4 609,89. Consumers are already feeling the pintch after the South African Reserve Bank raised the repo-rate by 50 basis points. For more on this we are joined on the line by Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group Programme Coordinator, Mervyn Abrahams
Statistics South Africa's unemployment rate has come in slightly lower at 34-point-5 percent from 35-point-3 percent in the fourth quarter. The latest figures have released that the number of unemployed people now stands at 7-million-862-thousand. According to an expanded definition of unemployment that includes those discouraged from seeking work, 45-point-5 percent of the labour force was without work in the first quarter, compared with 46-point-2 percent in the fourth quarter. Chief Economist at the Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt has the details...
Motorists will face a massive fuel price increase this week. The unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) shows fuel increase across the board. It says consumers will face further pressure because government's earlier relief of reducing the General Fuel Levy (GFL) has ended, Latest estimates predict petrol to increase by almost three Rands a litre at 2-Rand-37 cents while diesel will go up by 2-Rand 62 cents a litre. Amina Accram reports...
Western Cape Community Safety minister Reagan Allen has expressed anger following the latest mass shooting incidents in Cape Town. Allen has reassured residents that the perpetrators of the incidents will be arrested speedily. On Monday, provincial police confirmed that two brothers and their sister were shot and killed on Sunday night in Ekuphumleni in Khayelitsha. The Ekuphumleni shooting is one of several to hit Khayelitsha this year. Western Cape Community Safety Minister Reagan Allen explains...
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has given words of encouragement to learners of Khanya Lesedi Secondary School East of Johannesburg following the passing of three boys after they allegedly consumed an energy drink given to them by their father. Preliminary reports allege that the father of the three deceased gave all his five children energy drinks in the morning while they were preparing for school. Four of the said learners consumed the energy drink while one did not. Lesufi says he lacks words to explain what could have led to the death of the learners...
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to meet with the Elders TODAY at his residency in Pretoria ahead the group's bi-annual meeting in Cape Town. The group is comprised of independent global leaders founded by former president Nelson Mandela with the purpose of tackling global societal issues. These include peace, justice and human rights across the globe. President Ramaphosa hope to use this engagement with the Elders to discuss the global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic amongst other issues. For more on this we are now joined on the line by our senior politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo
Police Minister, Bheki Cele and National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola are currently meeting Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheteli Mene and her team at the police offices in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. The visit follows outrage over the brutal killing of 35-year-old Namhla Mtwa, who was gunned down in April. The matter went viral after Mtwa's sister took to social media platforms last week in a desperate attempt for police to act following the murder. Provincial police have since launched a manhunt for Mtwa's killer. SABC reporter, Nomzwanele Mngoma explains...
Sibanye Stillwater mineworkers have say that the mine has shown a lack of simpathy to their plight. Scores of striking workers continue to camp outside the Union Buildings in Pretoria as the company says their wage dispute has been referred to the CCMA for arbitration. The workers are calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to speedily intervene in wage negotiations with the mine. Mine workers from Welokom and Carltonville have been on strike since last month demanding a monthly salary increase of a thousand rand and a further 6% for artisans and surface personnel. Sibanye Stillwater Executive Vice President for Corporate Affairs, James Wellsted explains...
Tensions are running high at SAFTU's second elective conference with general Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi warning delegates against collapsing the conference. NUMSA and unions aligned to it want suspended national office bearers to be reinstated so they could contest in the leadership battle within the Federation. Other unions aligned to Vavi are however opposed to the idea, rather choosing to disrupt the conference by singing non-stop. Before speaking to our reporter at the conference, lets listen to snippet of the disrupting chaos which took place earlier...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised his German counterpart, Olaf Scholz for donations made to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in the African continent. Ramaphosa was speaking at the start of his official talks with Chancellor Scholz at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The two heads of state committed strengthening bilateral relations into youth development, climate change, education and further investments between the two nations. President Ramaphosa however expressed concern that vaccines produced in South Africa were not being bought anywhere..
Angry residents of Mganduweni near White River in Mpumalanga have marched to the Masoyi police station in protest against what they call the slow pace with which police attend to child murder and mutilation cases. The residents earlier blockaded roads in a protest that has been sparked by the recent murder and mutilation of six-year-old Bontle Mashiyane. Bontle was found in a ditch last week with parts of her body missing, after she had been missing for nearly three weeks. Yesterday, the case against three suspects accused of her murder, was postponed to the 24th of June in the Kabokweni Magistrate's Court. Two more people were taken in for question. Our reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng has the detail...
Paediatrician Dr Tim De Maayer's has written an open letter to Health Department heads asking 'How do you manage to come to work every day, fail at your job of ensuring basic healthcare for the people you serve and still sleep at night?' He says children are dying and the horrendous conditions in our public hospitals are contributing to their deaths. Dr De Maayer explains...
Former General Secretary of COSATU, Mbazima Shilowa says he is dismayed at the tensions within senior leaders of the South African Federation of Trade Unions. Shilowa, a former premier of Gauteng was addressing SAFTU delegates on Day 2 of the Federation's second elective conference underway in Boksburg , East of Gauteng. The conference got off to a rocky start yesterday as NUMSA demanded that officials who had initiated the suspension of General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi should be reinstated. Shilowa says the future of SAFTU remains within the delegates present at the conference...
Members of the media have made an urgent application to the Kabokweni Magistrate's Court for permission to broadcast a case involving three suspects who are accused of the murder of six-year-old Bontle Mashiyane in Mganduzweni in Mpumalanga. This is after the court objected to the case being broadcast citing reprisal attacks on the families of the accused. For more on this we are joined on the line by SABC reporter, Motsebi wa Monareng
Embattled former Health Minister Dr. Zweli Mkhize has accepted a call by some traditional leaders in Kwa-Zulu Natal for him to run for the African National Congress's leadership. Mkhize was endorsed by the leaders during his son, Dedani Mkhize's traditional wedding in Willowfontein at the weekend. Mkhize's announcement comes ahead of the African National Congress's National Elective Conference later this year. Political Analyst, Gogo Aubrey Matshiqi gives us his insights...
Public outrage continues to spew over the abuse and ultimate murder of 35 year old Namhla Mtwa from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Mthwa was shot nine times as she arrived at her home from work on the 21st of April and has since been buried. Her alleged boyfriend of 17 years, who is reported to be married to another woman has denied having anything to do with her murder despite alleged phone evidence of his abuse and threats to her life. Namhla's aunt, Thembakazi Mtwa who had taken her niece in after she had allegedly finally decided to leave her abusive boyfriend, explains the killing of the 35-year old...
The South African Weather Services says it expects the first snowfall of the season to make landfall in Umzimvubu and Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape. Snowfall is expected to start around midday today and is expected to continue until midnight tomorrow evening. This as the eThekwini metro disaster management teams have announced that they are on high alert ahead of an expected cold front with possible heavy rain. SABC Meteorologist, Phemelo Zonke....
It's that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly. This week, he starts off with by touching on a very promising new platinum operation emerging this week with the first tons being produced by the K4 shaft in Marikana....
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has warned that the price of petrol and diesel may increase to over twenty-five rands a litre if government fails to extend the temporary relief on fuel taxes beyond the 31st of May. OUTA has written to Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana requesting that the treasury considers a phased-in approach over three months at fifty cents a month. The relief measures were announced in April where National Treasury reduced the general fuel levy by R1.50 for price adjustments in both April and May. OUTA CEO, Wayne Duvenage explains...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged government ministers to listen to the voices of the people. He was reiterating comments he made last night at the Black Business Council Summit where he made reference to the controversial 22 Million flag project that the Arts Minister, Nathi Mthethwa has since cancelled. Ramaphosa at the summit last night jokingly made reference to him receiving a call from Minister Mthethwa seeking advice on what he should do with regards to the public outcry over the project. The president however took a more serious approach today calling for those elected to lead to listen to the people....
The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 4 weather warning for snow and an Orange Level 5 warning for rain in the Eastern Cape. The service has predicted heavy rainfall amounts exceeding 20mm for KwaZulu-Natal for the weekend. This comes as the province was still recovering from last month's deadly floods. For more on this we are joined in studio by SABC Meteologist, Phemelo Zonke
The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng is up in arms after the Gauteng government spent almost R140-million building Tshwane's HM Pitje Stadium, which will now be demolished. The stadium was never used and will reportedly now cost R84-million to demolish. DA spokesperson for sports, arts, culture and recreation in Gauteng, Kingsol Chabalala together with the Director for Infrastructure Development at the Gauteng Department of sports, arts, culture and recreation, Tswarello Mathebula...
The SRC at the University of Cape Town says the institution has a severe Gender-Based-Violence culture which needs to be eradicated. This follows a student meeting where at least 11 alleged student sexual offenders were identified and requested to be removed from the residential house of the institution. The student body also noted a survivor account on Twitter which claims to be representing five female students which have also allegedly been raped by staff members of the institution. UCT SRC acting president, Siya Plaatjie explains...
COSATU has welcomed the decision by Arts and Culture Minister, Nathi Mthethwa to review the decision to erect a massive South African flag at the Freedom park in Pretoria. This follows public outcry over the matter with the arts fraternity describing the move as being insensitive to the plight of artists over the covid-19 pandemic. COSATU spokesperson, Sizwe Pamla has described the initial decision of erecting the flag as an insult to workers...
A group of Swazi nationals has protested outside the Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg against King Mswati the third's family members who are there for their routine medical check-up. Those in hospital include the King's mother, wife and son. SABC political reporter Ntebo Mokobo spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The City of Tshwane has confirmed that while water tested in one part of Bronkhorspruit town has come up clean, the two tests in Rethabiseng township and Riamarpark have not. This follows complaints from local residents that their water had discolouration coupled with a bad smell. The water challenges in the area are not new as the community of Bronkhorspruit had embarked on numerous shutdowns before in order to bring the attention of official to their plight. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to local resident, Vusi Maridili and City of Tshwane spokesperson, Sipho Stuurman.
The matter involving Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and others is currently underway in the Western Cape High Court. This as, Mkhwebane continues her efforts to prevent the National Assembly from proceeding with the inquiry into her fitness to hold office and also prevent the president from suspending her pending the outcome of the probe. Mkhwebane is challenging a Constitutional Court judgement that was handed down in February, giving the green light for her impeachment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Zalene Merrington
Stellenbosch University in the Western Cape has confirmed that it is investigating yet another alleged racist incident which occurred on campus. The learning institution is currently at the centre of a racial storm after a white first year student, urinated on the belongings of a black first year student. In the latest alleged racist incident at the institution, racial slurs were reportedly hurled towards an Indian female student during an event organised by the law faculty the week before. To help us look at why the issue of racism at institutions of higher learning still persist in South Africa, Sakina Kamwendo spoke tp associate professor at the University of the Witwatersrand's school of governance, William Gumede.
At least two-thousand delegates from over 180 countries are attending the fifth Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour in Ethekwini. The event, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre is aimed at protecting children by eliminating child labour. Children in rural areas have been identified by the International Labour Organisation as the most vulnerable to exploitative labour. Globally, the majority of the children involved in child labour are in the agricultural sector and many of them are between the ages of 5 to 11. Labour Attache at the South African Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Siyabonga Hadebe elaborates...
Some in the pension fund sector have expressed concern over the new regulations for pensioners in South Africa which have been introduced by the South African Revenue Service. Head of Corporate Consulting Strategy at Alexander Forbes, Belinda Sullivan says under the new regulations, a pensioner who receives their income from one source will have the correct PAYE deductions made by SARS from their monthly pension. Sullivan says some pensioners have multiple streams of income, adding that this may result in said pensioner being placed in a higher tax bracket compared to the amount of tax that has been paid to SARS at the end of the tax year. Head of Corporate Consulting Strategy at Alexander Forbes, Belinda Sullivan explains...
The National Union of Mineworkers says it is highly shocked and surprised by the Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago's decision to place Ubank under curatorship. Kganyago cited serious issues that are facing the bank as the reason for the immediate decision to place the bank under curatorship. KPMG has been announced as the curator to recover and take possession of all asserts of Ubank. The bank is popular in the mining sector for providing services to mineworkers. Here is Reserve Bank Governor Lesetya Kganyago explaining the reasons behind the decision to place Ubank under curatorship.
The Jacob Zuma Foundation says the former president is looking forward to the actual trail date of his corruption case at the High Court in Pietermaritzburg. This follows yet another postponement in the Zuma arms's deal case as the former president's reconsideration application to the Supreme Court of Appeals is still pending. Zuma wants Advocate Billy Downer to recuse himself from the case alleging that he is bias against him. Meanwhile, spokesperson for the Zuma foundation, Mzwanele Manyi says president Zuma is a small fry in this case as the real culprits are yet to be brought before court...
After a long wait, Walt Disney Company has officially confirmed 18 May 2022 as the launch date of the Disney Plus, a streaming service in South Africa. But what does this mean for content creators and the South African audience?
The Economic Freedom fighters are currently addressing members of the media from the Winnie Madikizela Mandela House in Johannesburg shortly. The party met over the weekend to discuss a number of issues. Party leader, Julius Malema has called on South Africans to join the party in their numbers ahead of the million mark targeted in December...
Stellenbosch University in the Wstern Cape says an investigation is underway after the video of a white student urinating on items in a black student's room went viral on social media at the weekend. It is alleged that the incident took place at the Huise Maria residence while the first year AgriSciences student, Babalo Ndwayana was sleeping. The incident has sparked outrage as the white student is reported to have told the Ndwayana that this is what they do to black students. Ndwayana explains further....
Eskom management has painted a bleak outlook for the risk of loadshedding this week warning that the country may be placed on rotational STAGE FOUR. The power Utility's management briefed members of the media in yet yet another session about the crumbling state of the national grid. This is after the power utility lost over 17 thousand megawatts of generating capacity due to breakdown. Eskom COO, Jan Oberholzer says stage three loadshedding will be implemented tonight but stage four remains a possible reality...
This week on Update From The Coal-Face, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly Martin Creamer looks at South Africa's first hydrogen corridor now under development will generate a minimum of 14 000 jobs a year, the Mining Indaba heard this week, President Ramaphosa this week expressed huge delight on being able to drive in the massive world-first hydrogen dump truck, built from scratch right here in South Africa and the big South Deep gold mine, west of Johannesburg, will be generating its own solar power at a mere 8.5% of what it costs from the Eskom electricity grid.
The South African Farmers Development Association has refuted claims that the country is facing a severe sugar shortage. This follows reports in the media that cited the inability by local manufacturers to meet the demand. The sector is under pressure after it lost over R223-million due to cane damage following excessive rain and flooding in KwaZulu-Natal. South African Farmers Development Association executive chairman, Dr Siyabonga Madlal elaborates...
There has bee mixed reactions to the Pretoria High Court judgement that was handed down on Wednesday which declared part of the Divorce Act as being inconsistent with the constitution. This has set up major changes for how divorces are handled when couples are married out of community of property. According to Natasha Truyens, senior associate and family law attorney at Barnard Incorporated Attorneys, the practical implication of the new judgment would mean that any person who enters into an antenuptial contract without accrual after the commencement of the Matrimonial Property Act, can now ask a court for a redistribution of assets. Truyens explains...
The South African Youth Council of the Western Cape has called for a joint operations between the police and the Home Affairs department in order trace, verify and deport illegal immigrants who are found to be on the wrong side of the law. This follows public outcries on social media platforms as video and audio clips of a young Grade 9 learner from Delft is heard explaining how she and other minors were allegedly lured and raped in the Parklands suburbs of the Western Cape. For more on this we are now joined on the line by the provincial secretary of the Youth Council in the province, Zuko Mndayi
The Alleged parliament arsonist Zandile Mafe is expected to appear at the Cape Town magistrates court today following the January torching of the national Parliament. The state alleges that he broke into parliament with intent to commit terrorism and theft. He's also facing charges of arson and other additional charges of terrorism. The state had asked for a six week postponement at the last appearance as the forensic investigation had not been completed. Mafe was arrested shortly after the fire broke out at Parliament on January the 2nd. Our reporter following this case, Corbin August...
The KwaDukuza Magistrates Court has postponed the matter of a 45-year-old Ballito mother who allegedly killed her 4-year-old daughter. The accused mother who has been detained at the uMhlali police cells has now been sent to the Westville prison. It is alleged that the woman - who may not be identified in terms of an order by the court - tied the girl's hands and drowned her in a bucket of water last month. She appeared briefly in court accompanied by her lawyer. The matter has been adjourned for further investigations and a possible plea to June 9th. SABC reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe has the details...
Protesting residents at Musina in Limpopo have barricaded the N1 road between Musina town and the Beit Bridge border post over lack of water. They have barricaded the road with burning tyres, rocks and dustbins to prevent movement of motorists. Residents say they have not been getting water for almost two weeks. Some residents say they want the Musina local municipality to provider water to them instead of the Vhembe district municipality. SABC reporter, Lutendo Bobodi explains...
Sri Lankans have criticised a Wednesday night speech by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in which he ignored calls to resign and vowed to restore order. In his first national address since protests began last month, he offered to cede some of the presidency's power to parliament, but set no timetable. Sri Lankans who have been calling for him to resign over an unprecedented economic crisis. Our correspondent in New Delhi, Ishan Garg-
South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has urged beneficiaries who usually use the South African Post Office to collect their social relief grant to consider approaching an ATM or a supermarket this month. This follows an announcement by the Post Office that it will no longer be paying the three-hundred and fifty grants through its branches. The Post Office had indicated that it intends on closing at least 130 branches across the country despite the reliance to their services of thousands of villagers who find themselves at the periphery of city centres. SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi engages with some of the listeners...
Eskom CEO, Andre de Ruyter, has apologised to the public for the recent rolling blackouts - saying top management are working towards resolving the issues faced by the power utility. Eskom has announced that Stage 2 power cuts will resume from five o'clock until 10 o'clock this evening. Eskom COO Jan Oberholzer explains further...
Advocate Busisiwe's Mkhwebane's days as the head of the Public Protector's office may be numbered. This as parliament's Section 194 committee sits this afternoon in order to consider her fitness to hold office. Mkhwebane was dealt a huge blow following the Constitutional Court's dismissal of her rescission application on Friday last week. The application related to the separation of powers involving the appointment of a retired Judge which sat on a panel that conducted preliminary investigations against her fitness to hold office. Our parliamentary correspondent, Mercedes Besent explains...
The Department of Public Enterprises and National Treasury have presented a united front at Scopa on the sale of South African Airways. This follows an earlier report by National Treasury Director General Dondo Mogajane to Scopa that his department had not been part of the process. They were briefing the committee on the process so far to appoint a strategic equity partner for the airline. We spoke to accountant and analyst Khaya Sithole for his thoughts on the matter...
President Cyril Ramaphosa says mining remains a big contributors to the economy and jobs in South Africa, and currently contributes half a million jobs. Meanwhile, as the African Mining Indaba continues, gangs are stealing copper from cables deep underground, disrupting the mining industry's operations. To discuss this further we're now joined on the line by the head of investor relations at Sibanye-Stillwater James Wellsted
Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane has retained his position as the ANC provincial chairperson after beating his rival Babalo Madikizela. Mabuyane secured 812 votes against Madikizela's 662. Mlungisi Mvoko has been elected the party's deputy chairperson and Lulama Ngcukayitobi the secretary-general. Earlier Sakina Kamwendo spoke to both our politics reporter Ntebo Mokobo and political analyst from Nelson Mandela University, Ongama Mtimka...
DA leader, John Steenhuisen says the party will continue to fight for ways of mitigating the effects of the war in Ukraine on South Africans. Steenhuisen says the Western Cape will look at ways of bolstering the local production of wheat and canola in the province in the face of global shortages. South Africa has seen a sharp rise in grain and fuel prices after Russia's invasion of the European country. The DA leader visited the region last week on what he says was a fact-finding mission. Steenhuisen was addressing the media virtually after his visit to Ukraine ...
The three suspects in the murder case of 28-year-old Hillary Gardee have abandoned their bail application in the Nelspruit Magistrate's Court in Mpumalanga. They will be back in court on the ninth of next month. The suspects are facing charges including kidnapping, rape, murder, firearms and ammunitions, defeating the ends of justice and conspiracy to commit murder. One of the suspects is said to be a member of Eswatini's People United Democratic Movement. We earlier spoke to our reporter Motsebi wa Monareng. who attended court proceedings...
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says only 61 percent of the province's population has been counted in this year's Census, with just eight days to go before the extended closing date. Winde is warning that an under count of residents will severely undermine the provision of services such as health-care and education in the province. Winde is appealing to residents to make use of the extended Census period by also registering online. Udo Carelse spoke to Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and Census Project Director in the Western Cape, Patrick Kelly.
ONE South Africa Movement leader, Mmusi Maimane is currently leading a community march in the Siyathemba local municipality in Prieska in the Northern Cape province. This as the movement and its local affiliates, call for the African National Congress to stop what they call the hijacking of power from the people though the back door. Among the marchers is the Siyathemba Commuity Movement which took control of the municipality in last year's local government election after winning 40% of the vote. Udo Carelse spoke to ONE South Africa Movement leader, Mmusi Maimane.
In this week's edition of the Update From The Coal-Face, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, Martin Creamer tells Udo Carelse about the World Coal Association, headed by South Africa's July Ndlovu, expressing its full support for a 'just energy transition' to a clean energy future, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula saying South Africa must continue to phase out coal in a carefully structured manner and South African mining stalwart Dr Mark Bristow is taking steps to develop what will be Pakistan's biggest-ever mining project.
The case against Economic Freedom Fighters leaders, Julius Malema and co-accused Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has been postponed to 3 June 2022 by the Randburg Magistrates Court. Malema and Ndlozi are charged with assaulting a police officer Lt-Col Johannes Jacobus Venter at Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's funeral in the year 2018. The two have pleaded not guilty to the assault charge which they claim is part of a political agenda. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC reporter, Zoleka Qodashe
Western Cape High Court Judge President John Hlophe's application to review and set aside the decision of the Judicial Service Commission for his impeachment by parliament has been dismissed by the South Gauteng High Court. This comes after the Judicial Services Commission resolved last August, by a majority of eight members against four, to endorse the decision of the Judicial Conduct Tribunal that Hlophe should face impeachment by parliament for committing gross misconduct. This follows a complaint by judges of the Constitutional Court that Hlophe had attempted to influence Justices Chris Jafta and Bess Nkabinde in 2008 in a matter involving former president Jacob Zuma. Udo Carelse spoke to SABC parliamentary correspondent, Mercedes Bessent
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane is expected to lay criminal charges against self-described legal commentator, Ismail Abramjee and what she calls his 'accomplices', at the Brooklyn police station in Pretoria. The charges relate to the text message Abramjee sent to the lead senior counsel for the Speaker of the National Assembly and the chair of the Section 194 Committee. They are both parties in the Public Protector's postponed application concerning the Section 194 process in the Western Cape High Court. Udo Carelse spoke to spokesperson for the Public Protector's office, Oupa Segalwe.
The Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) is calling on the eThekwini Municipality and marketing bodies in KwaZulu-Natal to make more money available to market Durban as an attractive tourist destination. This comes after the COVID-19 pandemic, the July 2021 unrest and the recent devastating floods dealt a severe blow to the city's economy.Today marks the final day of the Indaba which is currently underway at the Durban International Convention Centre. The conference has returned following a two year break as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a staggering 45000 delegates from across the continent. Udo Carelse spoke to CEO of the Tourism Business Council of SA, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa.
The ANC elective conference of the Eastern Cape is set to continue this weekend as planned despite last minute glitches. The provincial Task Team of the party met virtually yesterday with the national executive committee of the ANC in order to discuss amongst other issues the state of readiness of the much anticipated conference. This raised eyebrows that another postponement may be imminent as the issue of the eligibility of voting delegates seemed to have yet to be resolved. For Udo Carelse spoke to Provincial Task Team Coordinator, Lulama Ngcukayitobi.
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse has continued its call for government to extent the validity of driver's licence cards from five to 10 years. This as today marks the deadline for motorists to renew their expired driving licence cards. The deadline applies to all driving licences, temporary driving permits and professional driving permit and learner's licences which expired between March 2020 and August 31, 202. Udo Carelse spoke to OUTA CEO, Wayne Duvenage.
The ANC in the Eastern Cape has written to its mother body at Luthuli House in Johannesburg requesting an urgent virtual meeting over the state of readiness for the upcoming provincial elective conference, among other issues. The party's provincial task team coordinator, Lulama Ngcukaitobi has tabled several issues that need an urgent attention of the the ANC's NEC ahead of the weekend's conference. These include the eligibility of voting delegates together with investigations into branches such as Dr WB Rubusana and Chris Hani. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst at Nelson Mandela University, Ongama Mtimka...
The office of the Auditor General has informed Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts that it informed the Road Accident Fund that the standard of auditing at the entity is not yet recognised, but RAF went ahead and used it anyway. The AG has told SCOPA that this has resulted in litigation where RAF is disputing the disclaimer opinion it has received. The office was briefing the committee on the annual reports of Road Accident Fund and the South African Airways. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary Reporter, Lulama Dlepu
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Patricia De Lille is expected to visit parts of KwaZulu-Natal tomorrow in order to make available land parcels for the resettlement of those most affected by the recent floods in the province. The visit forms part of government's efforts to assist the thounsands of people that have been displaced after their houses were damaged or destroyed during the floods. De Lille is also expected to visit and assess some of the bridges that have gone repairs after they were damaged. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to De Lille on the upcoming trip.
EFF leader Julius Malema has told members of the media that a manhunt continuing for the killers of the daughter of the party's former secretary general. Hillary Gardee, the 28-year-old daughter of Godrich Gardee was found dead on Tuesday after she was abducted in Mbombela last Friday. Malema and other senior party leaders including his deputy Floyd Shivambu and the party's former Chairperson Dali Mpofu visited the Gardee home in Mbombela to pay their respects. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi.
NPO, Missing Children South Africa says it roughly records between 60 and 90 missing people cases per month. This comes as police in Bishop Lavis in Cape Town are searching for a two-month-old baby who was snatched from her pram at a retail store. In another case, the daughter of the former Economic Freedom Fighters secretary-general Godrich Gardee has also been reported missing. It is understood that she was last seen at a retail store in Nelspruit where she and her daughter went missing on Friday. Her three-year-old child was found stranded on the street on the same day of their disappearance. For more on this, Jon Gericke spoke to Missing Children South Africa National Co-ordinator, Bianca Van Aswegan..
ANC veteran Dr Snuki Zikalala has also weighed into the booing of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the weekend by calling for those involved in the organisation of the event to account. President Ramaphosa had to be escorted out of the Royal Bafokeng stadium on Sunday during May Day Commemorations in the North West. Political commentators have since described the organisation of the event by COSATU as a blunder while the SACP labelled the actions of the workers as justified. For more on this, Zikalala spoke to Jon Gericke
Political analyst and lecturer at the Nelson Mandela University, Dr Ntsikelelo Breakfast says the upcoming policy conference of the ANC is going to be a political battleground between Presdient Ramaphosa's faction and that which opposes him. He goes on to argue that the deep rooted problem within the ANC is that it has both hardliners or radicals and reformists. For more on this, he joined Jon Gericke.
The ANC in the Eastern Cape has called on Police Minister, Bheki Cele to send a special team of investigators as more and more members are gunned down in the province. This comes as a police search is underway for suspects linked to the murder of two ANC members in the Nelson Mandela Bay region of the Eastern Cape. The 45-year-old ward councillor Andile Andries and 41-year-old branch secretary, Lubabalo Keso, died in a hail of bullets in KwaNobuhle on Monday. Several unknown gunmen in a minibus taxi allegedly attacked them as they came out a house in Kariega, after which then fled the scene. The incident comes after a spate of attacks on ANC members in the last few months. For more on this, Jon Gericke spoke to ANC Head of Communication in the province, Gift Ngqondi...
EFF has confirmed that Hillary Gardee - the daughter of former EFF Secretary General, Attorney Godrich Gardee - has died. In a statement, the EFF says the body of the 28-year-old student was found outside Mbombela in Mpumalanga after she had gone missing on Friday. She was last seen shopping at a plaza in Mbombela. Gardee was with a three-year-old girl when she went missing, but the child was later found. For more on this, Jon Gericke spoke to EFF Spokesperson, Sinawo Thambo.
Speculation is rife that President Cyril Ramaphosa is fast losing the trust of some within the tripartite alliance. Political Analysts say this could change drastically, if he prioritises the needs of the working class in South Africa. This comes after he was booed off stage at Cosatu's main May Day celebration at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in the North West province on Sunday. Some workers disrupted the event forcing him to leave without delivering the keynote address. Sakina spokes to Labour Expert, Terry Bell.
Ekurhuleni Emergency Services staff woke up today to make a gruesome discovery of four bodies including that of an infant when they extinguished a fire at the Marathon Informal Settlement in Germiston, east of Johannesburg. The children - aged nine, seven and two - as well as a forty-three year-old woman, were found burned beyond recognition. Several families have been displaced after their homes were destroyed by the blaze. For more on this we are now joined on the line by Ekurhuleni Emergency Services spokesperson, William Ntladi.
The long-awaited Africa's Travel Indaba has gotten underway at the Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. The gathering expects to attract over four-thousand delegates from 35 countries, after taking a 2-year-long break due the Covid-19 pandemic. Being one of the top three global trade shows, Africa's Travel Indaba aims to facilitate and provide access to tourism content and provides an opportunity to interact with key industry stakeholders on various issues related, but not limited to Digital Transformation & Innovation and fast-tracking the capabilities and opportunities around women, youth and SMEs in the sector. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of SA Tourism, Themba Khumalo.
The Department of Home Affairs is currently responding to the draft public participation report on the Electoral Amendment Bill. This comes after Parliament asked the Constitutional Court for a six month extension to finalise the bill. The Bill seeks to make provision for independent candidates to participate in provincial and national elections. In June 2020, the Concourt ruled in favour of independent candidates being allowed to contest the polls. It declared the Electoral Act unconstitutional for not making provision for independent candidates. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Parliamentary Correspondent, Mecerdes Bessent
This week on the Coalface, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, Martin Creamer talks to Sakina Kamwendo about a new South African diamond mine expected to be developed in Limpopo province, Wimbledon opting for platinum to mark the Queen's jubilee and the centenary its centre court and greater hydrogen fuel cell adoption poised boost for South Africa's platinum group metals sector.
The defense lawyer in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, Advocate Malesela Teffo has been granted R10 000 bail by the Hillbrow Magistrate's Court in Johannesburg. Teffo is facing contempt of court charges after he failed to appear in court in January 2022. He was detained yesterday following proceedings at the High Court in Pretoria on an arrest warrant relating to an alleged trespassing incident at the provincial police offices. Reporter Hasina Gori was at the Hillbrow Magistrate's court.
The South African Social Services Agency has moved to assure approved applicants of the R350 Social Relief of Distress grant that payments will be made within the next week. This, after a number of beneficiaries expressed concern that they have not received the subsidy for the month of April. The applicants say they have been waiting for the R350 from SASSA since the beginning of the month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi.
A Limpopo has been released on R1000 bail by the Lephalale magistrate's court after he shot and wounded a 38-year-old woman who he alleges he mistook for a hippopotamus. The accused, Hendrick van Wyk has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly shot and wounded the victim, Lenah Lefowane, who was fishing at the with her husband, Piet. Van Wyk will be back in court again on the 18th of May. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Mahlatse Phaladi.
After 28 years of freedom millions of people in Limpopo are still without decent housing. A 44-year old woman from Vhurivhuri village outside Thohoyandou is still living without a decent house and sanitation facility. Livhuwani Negondeni and her three children have been living in a clay rondavel house for the past two years. She applied for an RDP house in 2005 but till today she's still waiting. Negondeni says freedom day means nothing to her. Mahlatse Phaladi reportsMahlatse Phaladi…
Blind people in South Africa have raised concerns over the Copyright Act of 1978, saying it is discriminatory and limits their right to freedom of expression and information. They say that the act makes it difficult for visually impaired people to convert books into accessible formats such as Braille or audio. Last year the High Court in Pretoria declared the act unconstitutional and invalid. And they are now taking this matter to the Constitutional Court. Tshepo Phagane has more…
The damages caused by the devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal have left some communities without water since the floods two weeks ago. A manager in charge of deploying water tankers to affected areas was shot dead at the weekend by two unknown suspects in a red car at the Ottawa Water Depot. Yesterday, the situation worsened when Isipingo Hills residents expecting water were left without when the tanker was hijacked. We speak to our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe
Former Kenyan president, Mwai Kibaki, who served as Kenya's president from 2003 to 2013, has died at the age of 90. We speak to our correspondent in Kenya Sarah Kimani
The mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Mpho Phalatse, has announced measures to accelerate the delivery of basic services to improve the lives of the residents of city. This includes the building of new clinics, upgrading of informal settlements, and the construction of new housing units. She was delivering her inaugural speech as a multi-party government of the city.
Meanwhile, the City of Tshwane is also hosting the 2022 State of the Capital Address today. Tshwane Mayor Randall Williams highlights the city's plans and projects for the year ahead.
We speak to our SABC reporters Tshepo Phagane and Phumzile Mlangeni
Eskom CEO André de Ruyter, says R626 million has already been spent on diesel for the month of April. Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter says the plan is to drop load-shedding to stage 2 after the evening peak, with it possibly being lifted for the weekend after the Friday evening peak. Eskom says it had to implement stage 4 load-shedding on Tuesday after two units tripped. Speaking at a briefing updating on the power supply situation, De Ruyter said several units have been returned, but there was still a loss of 270MW due to maintenance on Cahora Bassa.
Energy Expert; Ted Blom says Eskom CEO André de Ruyter is out of order and incompetent.
Convicted murderer and former police officer Rosemary Nomia Ndlovu's case has been postponed to the 25 of May .She appeared briefly at the Kempton Park Magistrates Court in the East of Johannesburg.The former cop is currently serving six life imprisonements for orchestrating hits on her family members to cash in on policies.Ndlovu appeared on two separate matters. We spoke to SABC reporter Hasina Gori
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the month of March has risen to 5.9% year-on-year compared with 5.7% per cent in February. That's according to newly-released Statistics South Africa figures. On a month-on-month basis, CPI was also higher in March at one per cent compared with zero-point-six per cent in February. The South African Reserve Bank has an inflation target range of three to six per cent. Director for CPI Operations at Stats SA, Lekau Ranoto provides a rundown of the figures.
We also speak to Patrick Buthelezi, Economist at Sanlam Investments.
South Africans fear billions of flood relief money will end up in corrupt pockets. We spoke to Political Analyst Dr Ralph Mathekga
In good news for data users, telecom regulator ICASA has proposed new regulations that will extend the expiry period for data, voice and SMS services to six months. Data bundles are usually only valid for 30 days. The regulations were gazetted at the end of last month and operators have 30 working days (until May 18th) to comment on the proposed changes.
KZN Human Settlement and Public Works MEC Jomo Sibiya says contrary to popular belief, there will no mismanagement of flood reflief funds. He says every cent will go towards those that have been affected by the recent floods to assist them.
Some Zion Christian Church members say it has been difficult to celebrate three consecutive Easter holidays, without gathering at their church headquarters -- Moria -- outside Polokwane in Limpopo. Annually, scores of ZCC members descend on Moria for an Easter pilgrimage, where they are addressed by church leader, Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane. This has been the case since the Covid-19 outbreak and lockdown in 2020. Koketso Motau reports....
Citizens using social media to update the world about emergencies and natural disasters
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department says latest reports indicate that there are now over 600 schools that have been damaged by last week's floods. The damage is estimated to be over 400 million rand. Mobile classrooms are being dispatched to affected schools. In some communities, classrooms are being used as shelters for displaced people. We speak to Nomarashiya Caluza - KZN Provincial Secretary for The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU)
Ministers of Water Sanitation Senzo Mchunu, Transport Fikile Mbalula and Human Settlements Mammoloko Kubayi-Ngubane are visiting areas across KwaZulu-Natal today, to assess the damage of the recent floods. These include the Tongaat Water Treatment site and the Umbilo Waste Water Treatment Works. Umgeni Water says that repairs are underway at several of their water treatment plants. More than 340 people have lost their lives and thousands others displaced after torrential rains washed away their homes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
Johannesburg's Power utility, City Power says its technicians are attending to the power outage in Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg, following a fire that broke out this morning at a substation. City Power says the fire led to a trip at Orlando Switching Station in Soweto. Mondeor, Eldorado Park, Naturena, Lenasia and surroundings are some of the areas that have been affected. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City Power Spokesperson Isaac Mangena
Some big companies have had to halt their operations due to the heavy rains and flooding in Durban. The Durban Chamber of Commerce has called on local and provincial government to urgently share their disaster management plan with stakeholders, saying the magnitude and the frequency of the storms were proving to be a massive risk to the growth and development of the local economy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Durban Chamber of Commerce's deputy president Gladwin Malishe.
Several NGOs and private businesses say they are working to assist residents in KwaZulu Natal, who've been displaced by the flood disaster. The floods have been classified as a provincial disaster - with over 300 people known to have died. Homes have been damaged and washed away, resulting in communities being left without basic necessities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
The department of home affairs says more arrests are imminent following the arrest of an immigration official at OR Tambo International Airport, east of Johannesburg, on Wednesday. The suspect is believed to be part of a syndicate, bringing in Bangladeshi nationals into South Africa illegally without relevant documents. The arrest occurred during an operation by Department of Home Affairs operation, with Minister Aaron Motsoaledi to clamp down on the international syndicate that has been operating in both South Africa and Bangladesh. Motsoaledi spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been granted an application to add more companies to its legal bid to recover money which was allegedly siphoned from government's tender with Digital Vibes. The SIU had argued before the Special Tribunal that it should be allowed to recover money from six companies which had allegedly received payments from the Digital Vibes contract, amounting to R150 million. We spoke to SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago
President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently in Kwa Zulu Natal Province to receive an update on the damages caused by floods and the recent heavy rainfalls. The province has been declared a disaster area. Several areas have been affected by inclement weather conditions that have claimed lives of many people
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers has confirmed that their teams are on the ground to assist communities who have been affected by floods in KwaZulu-Natal.The organisation has been busy with on-site assessments identifying areas of severe damage. We spoke to the Founder of the Gift of the Givers, Dr Imitiaz Sooliman...
The South African Association of Meat Importers and Exporters has called for the urgent removal of trade tariffs on all poultry products. The association fears that the increase in chicken prices will hurt poorer households. Chicken is the most affordable source of protein for the majority of households in South Africa. But, with the ever increasing prices, chicken is slowly becoming a luxury.
However, the South African Poultry Association (Sapa) has rejected calls made to remove all trade tariffs on chicken imports and suspend any new tariff measures in the industry for the next three years. We spoke to SAPA General Manager Izaak Breitenbach
The South African Weather Service has issued a very serious alert for KwaZulu Natal. An orange level 9 warning is in place, with forecasters urging residents to be extra cautious as torrential rains continue to pound parts of the province. SABC Meteorologist, Phemelo Zonke gives us the update
The Senzo Meyiwa murder case has been postponed yet again in the High Court in Pretoria. This after the lawyer for one of the five accused Sifisokuhle Ntuli asked for the matter to stand down until the 22nd of April to allow them to further prepare for it. The matter was postponed yesterday to allow advocate Zandile Mshololo to further consult. Mshololo argued that granting the postponement was in the interest of justice. Judge Tshifhiwa Maumela granted the postponement with a warning ...
High Court in Pietermaritzburg has postponed Former President Jacob Zum High Court in Pietermaritzburg has postponed Former President Jacob Zuma's corruption trial to May 17. a's corruption trial to May 17.
Zuma's legal team has argued that the High Court in Pietermaritzburg should be slow to refuse a postponement application where the constitutional rights are implicated, unless the sole purpose is to cause undue delay. Zuma's petition to the Supreme Court of Appeal for leave to appeal the ruling against the recusal of lead prosecutor - Advocate Billy Downer - was dismissed earlier. His legal team has written to the president of the SCA for reconsideration. Making this application, Zuma's attorney Advocate Dali Mpofu, argued that his client should be allowed to exercise his rights. Our reporter Nojabulo Makamu has more
A 12-year-old girl has been raped and strangled to death, allegedly by a herdsman at Bhaziya village outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Emihle Tukani was one of a group of young girls and boys that undergo virginity testing at a young age to promote sexual abstinence. The victim was sent by her grandmother to fetch 10-rand from the herdsman. The grandmother was going to use the money for taxi fare to collect her pension grant. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports...
Parenting children in the age of Social Media
Parenting has never been easy. But the widespread adoption of smartphones and the rise of social media has introduced a new wrinkle to the challenges of parenthood. In fact, a majority of parents in the SA (66%) - who include those who have at least one child under the age of 18, but who may also have an adult child or children - say that parenting is harder today than it was 20 years ago, with many in this group citing technology as a reason why, this according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in March. Sandile Hlangane speaks to us
Gauteng Premier, David Makhura, has called on citizens to refrain from taking the law into their own hands - following the unrest in Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg. Residents are calling on law enforcement to be pro-active against crime and illegal immigration. A Zimbabwean national was killed earlier this week - after Diepsloot protestors accused him of being in the country illegally.
Meanwhile, Police Minister Bheki Cele, Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi, National police commissioner Fannie Masemola and Gauteng premier David Makhura held a meeting with Diepsloot community leaders. The meeting is aimed at giving the community representatives feedback on what the various government departments are doing to address their concerns. Tshepo Phagane gave us the update
A 41 year old Limpopo woman has given birth to siamese twins at Jane Furse hospital. The baby girls and their mother have been trasferred to Mankweng hospital. The twins are conjoined on the chest and abdomen. We spoke to Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi discusses the issue of undocumented foreign nationals in the country.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency in charge of State Security, Zizi Kodwa is today conducting an impromptu inspection at the Maseru border post. Kodwa is meeting with his Lesoto counterpart as well as other stakeholders including border officials, Home Affairs officials, SAPS and SARS officials.
The Democratic Alliance has suggested that foreign embassies in South Africa must foot the bill for the treatment patients from their countries. This comes after a video depicting pregnant women sleeping on the floor at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in Johannesburg, was widely circulated on social media. We spoke to DA's Gauteng health spokesperson, Jack Bloom.
EFF supporters have gathered in an open field near Kayamandi township in Stellenbosch in support of the expropriation of land without compensation. They claim billionaire, Johann Rupert, is guilty of land dispossession as one of descendants of colonial settlers. Meanwhile, EFF says deputy president Floyd Shivhambo lead the Mpumalanga leg of the picket at the Leopard Creek in Malalane.
Investigative journalism organisation, amaBhunghane, has revealed that more than R89 million in cash was stolen through SASSA accounts from the state-owned Postbank between 16 and 28 October 2021. This is said to have been by unknown individuals either employed by Postbank or as contractors. The brazen fraud allegedly involved illicitly crediting grant beneficiary accounts with large sums and then emptying these accounts out at ATMs.This marks the second major security breach since the South African Post Office and its subsidiary, Postbank, took control of the bulk of the social grant system in 2018. We spoke to Dewald van Rensburg; an investigator at amBhunghane.
The South African Government is stepping up efforts to lure investors to the country. President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to make a case for investors to bring their money to South Africa. The President is leading a high-powered business delegation to the Dubai Expo...
The Roodepoort Magistrate's Court has granted the Operation Dudula leader Nhlanhla Lux Dlamini a R1 500 bail. Dlamini is facing charges of house breaking, theft and malicious damage to property. On Wednesday last week, an elderly man laid charges of breaking and entering, intimidation as well as assault against Dlamini at the Dobsonville police station, in Soweto.
The case against operation Dudula leader Nhlanhla Lux Dlamini will be heard on Monday at the Roodepoort Magistrate's Court. Dlamini is facing charges of house breaking, theft and malicious damage to property. On Wednesday an elderly man laid charges of breaking and entering, intimidation as well as assault against Dlamini at the Dobsonville police station, in Soweto. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Sashin Naidoo..
South Africa's biggest electricity users are going green and clean in a multi-faceted, all-inclusive manner. National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula urge the Parliaments of the World to act swiftly to reduce climate change, the planet's biggest threat. The big Anglo American mining company is securing its own clean, green electricity - as is South Africa's major mineral sands mining company, Tronox. Sakina Kamwendo presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says Government is looking at ways to mitigate the impact of the war in Ukraine on South Africa. The President says the country will be affected by the conflict -- with fuel and food prices expected to rise. Responding to questions from MPs earlier this week, Ramaphosa said Government has set up a Committee of Ministers to look at the impact of the conflict on South Africa's fuel and food prices. Meanwhile, data from the Central Energy Fund has predicted fuel to reach 24-rand-a-litre and 23-rand-60-cents-a-litre for petrol and diesel respectively. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Presidential Investment Envoy, Phumzile Langeni.
American-based subscription streaming service Netflix has committed 929-million-rand to the South African filming industry. The company made its commitment at the fourth South Africa investment conference at the Sandton Convenction Centre in Johannesburg. The conference which was inaugurated in 2018 is looking for one-point-two trillion rand in investment commitments for the next five years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Netflix public policy director for Sub- Saharan Africa, Shola Sanni.
This year's investment conference kicked off on a high note at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg with a strong focus on Intra-Africa trade and the importance of the Africa Free Continental Trade Area (AfCTA). The fourth edition of the gathering attracted potention investors from far and wide in an effort to set South Africa as a lucrative investment destination. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Industrial Development Corporation CEO, Tshokolo Petrus Nchocho
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) has condemned the murder of iNkosi Mandlakayise Nxumalo who was gunned down in the Nazareth area in Ladysmith. The killing comes after a number of Amakhosi and Izinduna were repordedly assassinated in the province in recent months. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KZN Cogta Deputy Director General, Sikhumbuzo Gumede.
The Democratic Alliance says it has submitted a written parliamentary question to the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, to establish what concerns National Treasury had with the SAA Takatso consortium transaction. This after the National Treasury revealed that it was not part of the process of the disposing of the 51% of the government's shareholding in SAA to a strategic equity partner last year. Treasury says it never gave any consent to the transaction nor could it vouch for the compliance of the process followed by the department of public enterprises in this regard. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chattered Accountant Khaya Sithole
Police are maintaining a strong presence outside the Dobsonville police station as EFF opens a case against leader of Operation Dudula, Nhlanhla Lux Dlamini. Dlamini is accused of allegedly breaking into a Soweto resident home during his organisation's march this past weekend. Operation Dudula members were allegedly searching for drugs and accused the homeowner of running a drug den. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Hasina Gori
ActionSA has terminated the membership of Dr Makhosi Khoza. The party says this was on the recommendations of its Ethics and Disciplinary Committee. In a statement, ActionSa says evidence brought against Khoza, who was the party's eThekwini Municipality councilor, included numerous public utterances and comments made to the media which were deemed to have been made with the intention of bringing the party into disrepute. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of Political Science and Deputy Dean of Research at the University of the Western Cape, by Professor Bheki Mngomezulu.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has told the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) that Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) had three thousand ghost workers in December 2021. Mbalula says their salaries were stopped and none have come forward to claim their salaries after what he has described as a "grand scam". Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Bulelani Phillips.
Electronic hailing services operators have embarked on a three-day nationwide shutdown starting today. The operators are calling on government to regulate the industry. They say this will help prevent their exploitation and promote safety within the e-hailing sector by rooting out criminal elements. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Eskom says an incident at Koeberg nuclear power station where a technician onsite accidentally cut a wrong valve had no impact on the running unit. The incident, where the technician is said to have cut a valve on the reactor known as Unit 1, instead of the same valve on Unit 2, was reported in an internal Koeberg newsletter to staff. In its response to the incident the power utility says Koeberg's high safety measures timeously identified the error and prevented any damage being caused. It says Unit 1 has now been safely online and running, without any interruptions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to by Programme Manager for nuclear power plants at the National Nuclear Regulator Peter Bester
Farmers near the Meul River in the Free State, have moved their livestock away from the river following a massive diesel spillage. The Meul River was contaminated after a diesel spill when a Transnet pipeline was tampered with and fuel stolen. Farmers are concerned that the contamination of the river will affect the livestock that drink from the water. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Niel Pienaar, Safey representative of Verkykerskop farmers union.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) has concluded the high-demand radio frequency spectrum auction involving six qualified bidders. The revenue collected from the auction totaled more than R14.4 billion, which will go to the national fiscus. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Icasa chairperson Dr Keabetswe Modimoeng
A Lenasia businessman has been rescued three days after he was kidnapped while on the way to work. Six suspects including a Mozambican national - believed to be the mastermind behind a number of kidnapping cases in Gauteng - have been arrested. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe.
Countries the world over can now achieve energy freedom - and South Africans should seize its energy sovereignty opportunity with both hands. Private companies have announced so many electricity projects that the equivalent of a Koeberg power station is achieved when you put all the projects together. Government, business and labour will meet next month to thrash out the rebirth of South Africa's metals engineering sector. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
AmaZulu Traditional Prime Minister - Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi - has welcomed the recognition of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini by President Cyril Ramaphosa as the new AmaZulu monarch. He says the announcement by Ramaphosa has lifted a burden off the shoulders of the royal family. For some analysis on these developments Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of African Languages at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Professor Sihawukele Ngubane.
A fire has broken out at ANC Mpumalanga provincial headquarters January Che Masilela. According to the ANC, the fire broke out at about 9am on Thursday and firefighters had to rush to the building to put out the blaze. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC spokesperson in Mpumalanga Sasekani Manzini
The accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder case are back in the Pretoria High Court today. The former Bafana Bafana captain was murdered in Vosloorus in the east Rand in October 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Hasina Gori.
Mpumalanga police have busted a suspected kingpin in an alleged human trafficking scandal. This comes after 42 illegal immigrants from Mozambique were arrested at R33 Road (Carolina-Amsterdam road) near Lothai en route to Durban in three mini busses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala.
The DA in Kwazulu-Natal has thanked former party member, Mbali Ntuli, for her contributions to the provincial legislature. Ntuli announced her resignation from the DA and as a member of the Legislature today. While Ntuli says she has left the party of her own accord, she joins a long line of black leaders that have left the party, most recently former Midvaal Mayor, Bongani Baloyi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst Lukhona Mnguni
The Competition Commission has warned airlines against price inflation after the South African Civil Aviation Authority grounded Comair, and its subsidiaries Kulula.com and British Airways. There are reports and complaints of large increases in the prices of flight tickets, some even quoting R5 000 for a one-way flight between Johannesburg and Cape Town. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Competition Commission chief economist James Hodge.
The African National Congress' failure to manage elite contestation within its ranks since 2007 has seen tensions spilling out, often as 'service delivery' protests. That's according to the study by the Institute for Security Studies and the Government and Public Policy think tank. It says President Cyril Ramaphosa lacks the authority within the ANC to contain growing civil unrest as its competing factions vie for influence, positions, state contracts and dwindling resources. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Ivor Chipkin who is the Director of the Government and Public Policy Think-Tank.
The Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian Nelson, is in South Africa where he has met with top government officials, discussing anti-corruption efforts, countering the financial of terrorism, and US recent sanctions actions in Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Naledi Ngcobo
The government has published a new code of practice which is set to replace the existing Covid workplace rules in South Africa when the state of disaster is expected to lift on 15 April 2022. The Code of Good Practice specifically provides for mandatory vaccinations in the workplace. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Labour and Employment Practice Director at Werksmans Attorneys, Bradley Workman-Davies.
The latest decision by government to extend the National State of Disaster to the 15th of April 2022, has been met with disapproval from some political parties and scientists. Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Doctor Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma confirmed the extension despite calls by some political parties and businesses for government to end the State of Disaster. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of Vaccinology at Wits University Professor, Shabir Madhi and DA Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Cilliers Brink.
The Automobile Association has called on government to review the current Road Accident Fund levy in an attempt to ease the financial burden of consumers as fuel prices hit record highs. This comes after the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced that it was considering a number of interventions to address the situation, including the possible introduction of fuel purchase limits. In a presentation to parliament on Tuesday, the department said high fuel prices are a global issue driven by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent rise in oil prices. It says increases of R2/litre should be expected over the coming period, with developing economies such as South Africa likely to see diminished economic growth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Automobile Association Spokesperson, Layton Beard.
Comair says it is unsure when it will start flying again. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) suspended Comair's operator's licence on Sunday due to a series of mid-air emergencies. Comair operates the airlines Kulula and a local British Airways franchise. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Aviation Economist Joachim Vermooten...
Legal representative Jabu Motepe says former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng did not secure private funding to pay artists as he had claimed. Motepe has been making submissions at the SIU's special tribunal, hearing a review application in the matter between Motsoeneng and the public broadcaster. The SABC and the SIU seek to recover 2.5 million rand paid in royalties to some music legends in 2016 by Motsoeneng and former executives. The two parties want the decision to award R50 000 each to about 50 musicians set aside and declared invalid. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU special tribunal spokesperson, Advocate Selby Makgotho
The revision of the Films and Publications Amendment Act demands that online content producers submit their content to the Film & Publications Board for classification, to determine whether such expression is permitted online or not. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Tech Journalist Sandile Hlangani
The National Bargaining Council for the Road Freight and Logistics Industry says it may be necessary to shutdown the Industry for a period of time, while they wait for government to resolve the issue of protests by truck drivers over the appointment of foreigners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Bargaining Council for the Road Freight and Logistics Industry National Secretary Musawenkhosi Ndlovu and All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied SA general secretary Sifiso Nyathi.
A globally-hosted mining webinar this week urged that South Africa advances towards green energy very rapidly. Commitment to green energy is crucial, according to top South African business leader Patrice Motsepe. Royal Bafokeng Platinum is leaving a magnificent legacy of worker housing and nearby schools for the children of its highly productive workforce. Sakina Kamwendo presents another update from the Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Hawks have seized documents belonging to National Lottery Commission officials in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The raid follows alleged corrupt activities at the commission's offices in the province. The SIU says it has uncovered a corrupt activity in which Lottery Commission officials allegedly approached Non Profit Organisations (NPOs) who were looking for funding and facilitated their applications. Once successful NPOs allegedly paid a 30 per cent gratification to officials. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago
The Gauteng Health Department says it is unable to renew all the eight-thousand Covid-19 temporary posts due to budgetary constraints. It says the initial Covid grant budget of 2.2 billion rand towards compensating these workers has since been reduced to 1.1 billion for the 2022/23 financial year. Therefore, the department will not be able to renew all the temporary contracts the end of this month. Healthcare workers at the Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital held a picket at the hospital in protest against this impending termination of the contracts. Sakina Kamwendo SABC reporter Tshepo Phagane
Sinkholes are getting worse in Khutsong in Merafong, West Rand Region. A number of houses in Khutsong on Gauteng's West Rand are on brink of collapse because of a big sinkhole that's developed in front of their homes. Some of the families in the township in Carletonville have allegedly been forced to abandon their houses, only coming during the day to check if their belongings and furniture have not been stolen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Khutsong resident Pule Lebitsa, and Chairperson of the Dolomite Risk Management Committee in the Merafong Municipality Jaun Schmidt
Sakina Kamwendo in concersation with Transnet Pipelines spokesperson Saret Knoetze on fuel theft on Transnet pipeline causes massive diesel spill.
Black African-headed households has the highest levels of subjective poverty across the poverty measures. According to Stats SA's study on poverty in the country, 30,5% of black African households perceived themselves as poor, while 57,4% reported a per capita household income not exceeding their desired minimum income required to meet the household's needs. Statistics SA released its study on poverty today. Sakina Kawendo spoke to Isobel Frye, Director of Studies in Poverty and Inequalities Institute.
Maverick Citizen Editor and investigative journalist Mark Heywood say the delays in reopening Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital in Gauteng could have consequences more dire than the Life Esidimeni scandal. It has been almost a year since a fire gutted a portion of the hospital with damage estimated to be around R40 million. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mark Heywood
The Public Works Department says it has completed most of the disciplinary hearings against employees implicated in the Beitbridge border fence scandal. This comes after Special Tribunal ordered contractors involved in the R40 million project to pay back their profits earned from the costly development to the department. The fence was put up as part of the COVID-19 emergency procurement in 2020, however, the Special Investigating Unit found that it was irregular. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Acting Director General of the Public Works Department, Imitiaz Fazel
According to Statistics SA; South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 1,2% in the fourth quarter of 2021. The personal services industry increased by 2,7%, contributing 0,4 of a percentage point to GDP growth. Increased economic activities were also reported for community and other producers.The manufacturing industry increased by 2,8% in the fourth quarter, contributing 0,3 of a percentage point to GDP growth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist and Founding Director at the Centre of Economic Development and Transformation, Duma Gqubule.
The Special Tribunal is today hearing the joinder application in the Digital Vibes cases. The respondents are opposing the application and have filed their Heads of Argument as per the outcomes of several case management meetings preceding the hearing of the joinder application. However, the SIU is said to have obtained evidence showing that the R150-million tender was awarded to Digital Vibes unlawfully, and that the respondents "are all recipients of monies deriving from the impugned transactions" between the health department and Digital Vibes. Sakina Advovate Selby Makgotho Spokesperson of the Special Tribunal..
Calm has been restored in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, after some residents blocked roads with rubble and burning tyres. The residents were calling for a total shutdown of the township following tensions yesterday between Dudula movement members and foreign national traders. Major General Max Masha says they have deployed more officers to control law and order in the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Pearl Magubane
The Independent Communications Authority (Icasa) has today begun the auctioning of the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT), also referred to as high demand spectrum. Six telecommunication operators including Telkom, Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Liquid and Rain are participating in the auction. This as Telkom has asked the high court in Pretoria to impose a "structural or supervisory" interdict on ICASA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke with SABC Tech reporter Sandile Hlangani
ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa is in Mpumalanga on Tuesday in a bid to quell widening tensions within the ANC structures ahead of the much anticipated provincial elective conference. However the conference has been postponed to a later date and not this coming weekend as was initially scheduled. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our SABC politics reporter, Abongile Dumako...
An organisation representing students and staff across South Africa will approach the Constitutional Court should institutions of higher learning not urgently abandon their COVID -19 vaccine mandates by Tuesday. The organisation, Universities Alliance South Africa, is against the vaccine mandates, which have been adopted by several institutions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Stephen May, Universities Alliance South Africa's attorney
Parents supported by activists are taking the Eastern Cape Department of Education to court for its failure to deliver books and stationery to over 3,000 schools in the province. The Khula Development Project is an organisation based in Peddie, which, along with concerned parents and some teachers, want the court to declare the department's inaction unlawful. Flo Letoaba spoke to Petrus Majola, Director at the Khula Development Project....
Western foreign ministers are gathering in Brussels to assess their response to the war in Ukraine. Earlier the International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA said essential equipment at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was unaffected and there is no change in radiation levels after a fire. The IAEA's statement followed assurances from Ukrainian regulatory authorities. Flo Letoaba spoke to Romeo Kokriatski, a Managing Editor, New Voice Of Ukraine and co-host of Hyper Ukraine
Removing carbon from the world is the greatest ever investment opportunity of our lifetime, according to our platinum miner Sibanye. Zimbabwe has stolen a march on South Africa by awarding a 185 MW solar power licence to South Africa-linked platinum miner Zimplats. Fears are being allayed that the Russia-Ukraine conflict will negatively impact South Africa's mining industry. Flo Letoaba presets another update from The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
A Pietermaritzburg primary school teacher is accused of raping a 12-year-old Grade 6 learner. He appeared at the Pietermaritzburg Magistrates court on Friday. Flo Letoaba spoke to SABC reporter Vusi Makhosini.
Several licensing centers in Gauteng have reportedly shut their operations after two weeks of protest action organised by the National Driving School Association of SA against the online booking system. Protests have flared up due to recent changes made by the Gauteng Provincial Government to driver's license and testing booking system which blocks third parties from booking services on behalf of individuals or groups. Flo Letoaba spoke to Thesigan Pillay- Attorney representing the National Driving School Association of SA..
The National Lotteries Commission has raised concerns over what it calls 'several inconsistencies' in the Special Investigation Unit's (SIU) presentation to parliament. The SIU presented its report with allegations of maladministration, fraud, and corruption at the NLC to Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition on Wednesday. A probe by the Special Investigating Unit (SUI) has uncovered money laundering and corruption at the National Lotteries Commission. SIU head Andy Mothibi outlines the findings and Flo Letoaba speaks to the National Lotteries Commission spokesperson Ndivhuwo Mafela
Pietermaritzburg High Court Judge Isaac Madondo has dismissed with costs the application for a declaratory order made by the wife of the late AmaZulu King - Queen Sibongile Zulu - about what she is entitled to in the will. Queen Sibongile had claimed half the king's estate based on the fact that they were married in a civil union and in community of property in 1969. She and her two daughters were challenging the validity of his will. Flo Letoaba spoke to SABC reporter Nonjabulo Makamu...
The third part of the state capture commission of inquiry's report has been handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa and made public. The report reveals that senior ruling party officials received illicit payments from Bosasa. These include Mineral and Energy Affairs minister Gwede Mantashe, and Nomvula Mokonyane, the former water minister. Witnesses previously testified before the Zondo Commission that the company gave money to former President Jacob Zuma, paid for home-security upgrades for Flo Letoaba spoke to Independent researcher and Author, Dr Dale McKinley...
Trade union Solidarity has drafted a parliamentary petition to pressure the government to deregulate the petrol price and to lower fuel prices. According to Solidarity, the government has a stranglehold on fuel prices which must be broken. In its petition Solidarity demands that the determination of fuel prices be left entirely to the market so that healthy competition can prevail for the benefit of consumers. Flo Letoaba spoke to Theuns du Buisson- Economics Researcher at the Solidarity's Research Institute
The Foreign Press Association Africa, has criticised western media's ‘skewed’ coverage of the war in Ukraine. The association faulted western media's narrative suggesting it was unthinkable to witness violence in white-dominated countries. Flo Letoaba spoke to the chairman of the Foreign Press Association Africa Kennedy Wandera
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has also bid farewell to Captain Kay Makhubele who retired after 37 years of service. Captain Makhubele also served as the spokesperson for the police here in Gauteng. He has been lauded for his dedication and excellent service to the police service and the community. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him.
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has hailed Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar as a diligent servant, as he retired from office after after 41 years of Service. Sakina Kamwendo had a chat with him.
South Africa risks becoming a failed state if the "lack of decisive, ethical, and courageous leadership" persists and no action is taken to bolster economic growth and address high levels of poverty, unemployment and inequality. This is according to the Institute of Risk Management South Africa. The institute says it is now particularly important for the government and private sector leaders to step up and make decisions that are right for the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Michael Davies, Risk Report Project Leader with Institute of Risk Management South Africa.
Public sector trade unions have lost their battle to force government to honour a wage agreement reached in 2018. The Constitutional Court has on Monday dismissed the bid by the unions, ruling that that the agreement was invalid and enforceable. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Secretary of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (NEHAWU), Zola Saphetha.
Sakina Kamwendo in conversation with the Head of Public Diplomacy at the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Clayson Monyela, as thousands of people in Ukraine evacuate to neighbouring countries following the Russian invasion.
South Africa’s biggest iron-ore miner is to deploy new technology that turns mine waste into wealth. Platinum miners are on the cusp of a big breakthrough into the use of platinum group metals in batteries. South Africa’s biggest miner, Anglo American, has produced its best-ever financial results. Sakina Kamwendo presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Truck drivers affiliated to the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South Africa will be embarking on a nationwide shutdown this weekend, with several demands, including that all foreign national truck drivers be removed from the freight industry. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to secretary-general of the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South Africa, Sifiso Nyathi and Road Freight Association chief executive officer Gavin Kelly
Hundreds of Ukrainians have arrived by train in Poland after fleeing a Russian assault on the country. Poland has set up nine reception points for Ukrainians crossing the border - where they can receive food, medical assistance, and information. A number of countries have imposed sanctions on Russia. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Romeo Kokriatski, Managing Editor of The New Voice of Ukraine and Co-host, Ukraine without Hype podcast
Ukrainian officials say at least eight people have been killed following explosions by Russian troops across the country. Russian forces have launched a major military assault on Ukraine, with reports of missile strikes and explosions near major cities. People have been trying to flee the capital Kyiv and there is a palpable sense of shock. Officials say at least eight people are known to have been killed in Russian attacks. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow's response will be "instant" if anyone tries to take on Russia. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Kari Odermann, a Political Scientist in Germany
The trial of Mackenzi Ratselane continues in the Bloemfontein magistrate's court. Ratselane is accused of stabbing his ex-wife, Lesedi FM Current Affairs Presenter Dimakatso Folotsi in February last year. He is facing five charges that include attempted murder, kidnapping, illegal possession of firearm, illegal possession of ammunition and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Sakina Spoke to SABC reporter Ismael Modiba.
All eyes on Finance Minister Enoch Godogwana 's maiden budget speech expected to be delivered in Parliament this afternoon. This as members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and party supporters hold a march in parliament ahead of the budget speech, opposed to the International Monetary Fund ( IMF) and World Bank loans to bailout the country's economy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Director at the Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute, Isobel Frye
Advocate Muzi Skihakhane SC says the assassination of the late SACP leader Chris Hani almost killed the democratic dream of the nation. He is representing the Hani family and the SACP in the application by Hani's killer Janusz Walusz to overturn Justice Minister Ronald Lamola's refusal to grant him parole. The matter is being heard virtually by the Constitutional Court. Earlier Walusz's lawyer Advcate Roelof Du Plessis said the minister refused his client parole because he was under pressure from his alliance partners. Sikhakhane rebutted, saying Hani's killing nearly shattered South Africa's dream of becoming a democracy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Ntebo Nokobo
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate(IPID) says it cannot confirm reports that two officers are on the run following the deadly shoot out between police and cash-in-transit robbers in Johannesburg on Monday. Eight members of the gang of cash- in-transit robbers were killed and another eight arrested. The shoot-out ensued after the robbers shot at a police helicopter and wounded the pilot's assistant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IPID spokesperson, Grace Langa...
Gauteng's Deputy Provincial police Commissioner Major-General Tommy Mthombeni has told the Human Rights Commission hearings into the July 2021 unrest, that resources had to be mobilised with speed to deal with the threat. Mthombeni is the second state witness to testify in the commission's Gauteng hearings in Sandton north of Johannesburg. Police Minister Bheki Cele testified on Monday. About 350 people died in the week-long spree of violence and looting that caused billions of rand in damages to businesses and infrastructure. Mthombeni says they had to seek back-up from Johannesburg's Metro Police. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Phanuel Shuma
Suspended secretary general of the ANC - Ace Magashule says he does not know anything about the 70 charges against him. This as the state says it is busy with Moroadi Cholota's extradition application. Cholota Magashule's former personal assistant while he was Free State premier. The prosecution told the high court in Bloemfontein that it has Cholota's email in which she assured them of her cooperation but has allegedly backtracked. The US-based Cholota will now also be criminally charged. The charges relate to the alleged irregular awarding of a 255-million-rand asbestos roof removal contract in 2014. Sakina kamwendo spoke to reporter Makgala Masiteng
Sakina Kamwendo in conversation with Chief Technology Officer at Netstar, Clifford de Wit, on the latest crime statistics which show a another steep increase in car hijackings across the country. The data, presented by the police, covers the period between October and December 2021. A total of 5,455 hijackings were reported over that period – a 13.8% increase from the same period the previous year.
Mining company DRDGold has launched 41 programmes to take its communities out of poverty. Cutting red tape will release R90-billion worth of mining projects out of their starting blocks. Yet another company has announced that it is taking steps to generate its own electricity. Sakina Kamwendo presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Mid-month fuel price data supplied by East Cape Fuels shows that South African motorists can expect steep fuel price hikes in March. The Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa has warned the government against any planned fuel tax increases in its 23 February budget, which it says will be particularly damaging following record-high increases. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Jeff Schultz- Senior Economist at BNP Paribas SA
The City of Tshwane says that it has been too lenient on defaulting government departments and businesses, while focusing on debts accrued by residential customers. The City says that it was owed more than R17 billion in rates, taxes, water, and electricity bills- and because of the debt, the City was unable to fulfil its service delivery obligations. Jon Gericke spoke to City of Tshwane spokesperson Selby Bokaba..
EFF Leader, Julius Malema has testified that the singing of the song "Kill the Boer" represents the rejection of the apartheid system. Malema has also dismissed allegations that he has sung the song. He is testifying before the Johannesburg High Court. The court is hearing the matter between Afriforum and the EFF regarding the singing of the "Kill the Boer" song. The lobby group is asking the court to declare that the singing of the song, "Dubula iBhunu" or "Kill the Boer" by the EFF, Malema and party MP, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi hate speech. It's also calling on the court to impose a sanction and a fine. Afriforum is asking the court to refer the matter to the NPA for prosecution on a contempt of court charge. Malema has testified that "struggle" songs are to be looked at into context. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter Zoleka Qodashe
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) will on Wednesday deliberate over leaked audio of President Cyril Ramaphosa's comments about public funds being used to fund ANC factions. ANC MP Mervyn Dirks wrote to SCOPA and wanted Ramaphosa to appear before the committee to account for his remarks. Dirks was suspended from his parliamentary duties by ANC Chief Whip Pemmy Majodina for failing to withdraw his letter to SCOPA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst with the Nelson Mandela University Ongama Mtimka
The United States continues to promise swift and decisive measures were Russia to invade Ukraine. President Joe Biden spoke telephonically with both his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts over the weekend achieving no immediate breakthroughs. Washington believes an attack could happen at any time this week, ordering most of its Embassy staff to leave the Ukrainian capital Kiev while the Pentagon withdrew about 150 military trainers from the country. But Russia's Foreign Minister appears to still be pushing for diplomacy within his government to obtain concessions from the West over Moscow's security concerns in Eastern Europe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political scientist who lived in Ukraine, Dr Kari Odermann
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has met with the leadership and learners of Hoerskool Jan Viljoen in Randfontein west of Johannesburg to determine the cause of last Friday's alleged racially-motivated incident. Earlier, police used rubber bullets to disperse some parents and learners who accuse the provincial government of not listening to them following the incident. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Department of Education acting spokesperson Oupa Bodibe
The troubled Enoch Mgijima Municipality in the Eastern Cape is under the scrutiny again after it allegedly issued a tender of nearly 100-million rand for the construction of a 6.7 km road. The tender was approved late last year and awarded to Makali Plant and Construction to upgrade the 6.7 km Fikile Gwadana Road in Ezibeleni, at a tender value of R98.5 million. The project is allegedly expected to be completed next year January. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Paul Mahlasela , Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Enoch Mgijima Municipality
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) says President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address this evening needs to provide a frank assessment of what needs to be done and clear interventions to turn the nation around. Cosatu says government needs to acknowledge that the deepening socioeconomic crises in South Africa come from the misguided macroeconomic policy framework that has been implemented over the years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu Parliamentary Coordinator Matthews Parks
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to end of the National State of Disaster when he delivers the State of the Nation Address this evening. The State of Disaster was declared by Ramaphosa in March 2020, after the first Covid-19 cases were reported in South Africa. The party has also called for the sale or closure of all non-performing state-owned companies and the review of the fuel pricing model, among other things. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA leader John Steenhuisen
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to National Assembly House Chairperson, Cedric Frolick on Parliament's state of readiness for the 2022 State Of the Nation Address (SONA).
Parliament's Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence continues to interview candidates shortlisted for the position of the Inspector General of Intelligence Services. On Tuesday during his interview process; Reverend Frank Chikane said that the revival of the suicide incident of former president Jacob Zuma's wife Kate - is both sensitive and painful. Chikane reiterated that he did not leak the suicide note of Zuma's late wife. EFF Member of the Committee Mbuyiseni Ndlozi asked Chikani about the leak during an interview for the position of Inspector-General of Intelligence last night. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC parliamentary correspondent Mercedes Besent..
A group of advocates has come out in support of Advocate Dali Mpofu following a strongly-worded opinion piece, penned by Editor-in-Chief of News 24, Adriaan Basson, saying it is offensive. Basson refers to what he calls Mpofu's 'thuggish behaviour' at the Judicial Service Commission's interviews for a new Chief Justice last week, in particular his questions to Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo regarding allegations of sexual harassment. The advocates say the article is not only an insult to Mpofu, but also racist towards non-white advocates in the legal fraternity. Basson says he will not be responding to the advocates, saying they are entitled to their views. SAfm's Jon Gericke spoke to Advocate Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere SC
Sakina Kamwendo in conversation with Bheki Myende, a recovered drug addict about the increase in drug abuse among South Africans...
Sakina Kamwendo in conversation with Thembekile Msane, the National Spokesperson for the South African National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence (SANCA) and Shaun Kelly, Director and Co-founder of the Network of People who Use Drugs (SANPUD) about the alarming rise of drug abuse in South Africa.
A woman has been arrested after being caught red-handed breaking into the City of Johannesburg's Metro Centre in the early hours of Monday morning. It is believed the woman previously broke into the offices, but evaded authorities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Wayne Minnaar
Serial killer, Julius Mndawe is back at the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court for sentencing on Monday. Mndawe was found guilty on counts of murder and defeating the ends of justice. He was arrested for killing and burying five women in his yard at Numbi village near Hazyview in 2019. The women aged between 15 and 24 were killed between 2018 and 2019. Police arrested him after a cellular phone of one of the victims was found in his possession in 2019. He pleaded guilty to the murder but told the court that the murders were not premeditated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi
The father who is a suspect in the brutal rape of his two-year old daughter has appeared in court on Monday. He is facing a charge of rape and additional one of murder after the toddler succumbed to her injuries in hospital. The incident has left Eastern Cape villagers from Ntsimbini village in rural Port St Johns in shock. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nomzwanele Mngoma..
South Africa’s Hydrogen Roadmap just released bodes well for economic growth and social well-being. South Africa’s coal exports last year plummeted to their lowest level in 26 years. Green iron can help South Africa offset its fall in coal export revenue. Sakina Kamwendo presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News andMining Weekly.
The sale of scrap metal remains a huge challenge not only in South Africa but in other parts of the African continent. Last week Kenya's president UHURU Kenyatta,banned the sale of scrap metal due to vandalism of key infrastructure. This includes theft of power cables which led to three days of national blackouts at the beginning of the year. Back home the sale of metal scrap continues to threaten railway, electricity and other key infrastructures. To find out its impact and how the City of Johannesburg is dealing with it, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Michael Sun Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for the Department of Environment Infrastructure Services in the City of Johannesburg....
Strong winds and heavy rainfall caused by Tropical Storm Ana have disrupted the lives of thousands of children in four countries in Eastern and Southern Africa. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) says the situation in some locations remains dire for children and families on the ground. Latest reports indicate that parts of Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe have been hit by the first seasonal cyclone in the region. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa region, Chief of Communication, Malene Kamp Jensen
The kidnapping and murder case of suspected serial killer, 36-year-old Themba Dube, has been postponed for further investigations in the Seshego Magistrate's Court near Polokwane in Limpopo. Dube is accused of the gruesome murders of seven women in and around Polokwane last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Plokwane Katlego Nyoni...
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has confirmed that it has lodged a criminal case against National Police Commissioner Khehla Sitole. It says this is because he has failed to co-operate with the investigation into the murder of Charl Kinnear an Anti-Gang Unit detective who was gunned down in Cape Town in 2020. A court has already found Sitole guilty of breaching his duties. In October last year President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his intention to suspend him. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Consultant with the Institute of Security Studies' Justice and Prevention Programme, Johan Burger
The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group says consumers need to brace for a flurry of price hikes in 2022 - including food items that have already climbed far above headline inflation. The group's monthly Household Affordability Index shows that food prices are up 9% over the last 12 months, with a significant jump between December 2021 and January 2022. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to programme coordinator for the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group Mervyn Abrahams
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment have officially signed off on an emergency permit, which allows a Chinese ship to dump its reactive cargo at St. Helena Bay in the Western Cape. The dump is being supervised by The South African Maritime Authority (SAMSA). Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Captain Vernon Keller who is the Deputy COO of the South African Maritime Safety Authority...
The Pentagon is putting 8500 U.S troops on heightened alert for possible deployment to support NATO forces in Eastern Europe amid tensions over a possible invasion of Russian forces into neighbouring Ukraine. However Pentagon Spokesperson John Kirby clarified that no final decision had been made about a deployment yet. He referred to the action as ensuring U.S. troops were ready as part of Washington's efforts to reassure their NATO allies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Scientist in Ukraine Kyiv, Dr Kari Oderman
The CCMA has ruled in favour of a business that fired its worker for refusing to get the Covid-19 vaccine. The employee refused the vaccine on the basis that it was against her human rights. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johan Botes, Baker McKenzie Partner and Head of the Employment and Compensation Practice in Johannesburg...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a proclamation directing the Special Investing Unit (SIU) to probe various dealings that took place at Telkom; going as far back as June 2006. The SIU has been ordered to investigate the unlawful appropriation of expenditure of public money, among other things. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Editor at TechCentral.co.za Duncan Mcleod
Transparency International's 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) has revealed that South Africa, has reached a virtual standstill in its efforts to curb corruption, as human rights abuses and the erosion of democracy flourish. The CPI ranks 180 countries by their perceived levels of public sector corruption. Sakina Kamwendo spoke with executive director of Corruption Watch, Karam Singh
Labour and Employment Minister Thulas Nxesi together with a team of departmental inspectors are in Cape Town today in a week-long mega blitz inspections targeting the hospitality sector including hotels, bed and breakfast facilities, and restaurants. The department says this is to ensure the enforcement of the labour legislation within the hospitality sector. The officials are testing compliance with the minimum wage, safety and employment conditions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi
Eleven schools in KwaNyavu in the uMkhambathini Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands have now opened for teaching and learning. Last week, the schools were prevented from opening due to a dispute over traditional leadership in the area. The issue first arose during the municipal election last November. Alpheus Mzolo is a traditional leader in KwaNyavu. He says they have held a meeting with the community that reached a resolution that schools should open. It is believed that the feud relates to calls from the community for the reinstatement of Inkosi Sikhosiphi Mdluli. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MEC of Education in KZN Kwazi Mshengu...
Dairy giant Clover says it is shocked and appalled after a Fidelity security guard died while protecting a Clover delivery vehicle from striking workers in Olifantsfontein on Saturday. Clover says the guard was in an escort vehicle assigned to protect a Clover delivery vehicle from attack by striking workers. SAFTU affiliated unions - General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) and Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU) have been on strike since November last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) Trevor Shaku and Clover spokesperson Steven Velthuysen
Parents of pupils at John Marubini Primary School at Phiphidi village outside Thohoyandou, in Limpopo, have expelled a Grade 7 pupil accused of bullying. Learning and teaching was disrupted at the school learner allegedly threatened to stab his teachers and fellow learners, demanding to be progressed to Grade 8. Mulalo Rasila allegedly held teachers hostage several times since the re-opening of schools, blaming them for his failure to progress to the next Grade. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Michael Makungo who visited the school..
The standing committee on public accounts (Scopa) says it has concluded due process, with regards to the urgings of ANC MP Mervyn Dirks, to call President Cyril Ramaphosa to appear before it, after his comments to the party's top structure on the misuse of public funds in campaigns. The committee is expected to meet, as early as next week, to chart a way forward on the matter. Dirks, has since been suspended by the ANC regarding this matter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Scopa chairperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa
Sakina kamwendo speaks to SABC senior politics reporter Ntebo Mokobo about illegal activities in landfill sites in some areas in Gauteng; Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu's statement, clarifying the outcome of her meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa and an update on African National Congress (ANC) employees who have not been paid for three months.
South Africa can achieve “superpower” energy status by focusing on our world-beating solar, wind and storage opportunity. Australians are the main investors in projects that are bringing dormant gold and copper assets back to life. Soweto-born Sam Molefi has clinched promising business for his impressive contract mining business. Sakina Kamwendo presents another update from the Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
KwaZulu Natal MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Sipho Hlomuka has commended disaster management teams and non-governmental organisations for swiftly leading the evacuation of more than 100 residents from flooded areas in Ladysmith. Hlomuka says the estimated cost of the damages stands at R3.3-billion. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Durban Fanele Mhlongo
Gauteng Police Commissioner Elias Mawela has visited Freedom Park on Thursday following the murders of five men who were gunned down and their bodies discovered along the Golden Highway near Eldorado Park in Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Commissioner Elias Mawela
Coastal schools have reopened on Wednesday for the 2022 academic year. Some schools have been affected by severe thunderstorms resulting in flooding, while others were looted and stripped of school infrastructure and technological gadgets, adding to already existing challenges of learner materials, school transport and infrastructure, in provinces like the Eastern Cape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Basic Education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga and the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) General Secretary Mugwena Maluleke..
SASSA says it is experiencing delays processing reconsiderations for the COVID-19 SRD Grant. An applicant is required to request reconsideration of the decision to decline his/her application, if the applicant is sure that the decision made was incorrect, and that he/she does meet the qualifying criteria for the grant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SASSA's spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi.
The Department and Water and Sanitation has warned downstream communities of imminent overflow due to the on-going rains across the country but mainly in the Vaal-Orange River System. The department says there are huge increases expected into System over the next few days. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to department's spokesperson Sputnik Ratau
The battle between party loyalty and the oath of office of a Member of Parliament has reignited a constitutional debate. This as ANC MP and member of SCOPA Mervyn Dirks wrote a letter to SCOPA for President Cyril Ramaphosa to appear before the committee. This led to ANC Chief Whip Pemmy Majodina instructing Dirks to withdraw the letter following an ANC Strategy meeting with Dirks on Monday night. Dirks was instructed to withdraw by 9AM on Tuesday morning. But he wants reasons arguing that he sent the letter to SCOPA in his capacity as an MP and someone who has taken an oath of office. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in Parliament Mercedes Besent
Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station will be taken offline from Monday for regular refueling and maintenance that is scheduled for five months. This will be the 25th refueling outage on Unit two since commissioning and will also see the replacement of the unit's three steam generators. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Nuclear Officer at Eskom Riedewaan Bakardien
On Tuesday, South Africa will launch a R75-billion project aimed at combating climate change. Countries that transition to clean energy are more likely to attract foreign direct investment. South Africa did very well at COP26 and now is the time to deploy the $8.5-billion concessional finance. Martin Creamer is publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly. He’ll be back At The Coal-Face at the same time next Friday. Sakina Kamwendo presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News andMining Weekly.
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt after six inmates escaped while being transported to court in Vosloorus on the East Rand.. Police spokesperson Brenda Muridili says the police truck transporting the prisoners was ambushed by three armed men driving a silver vehicle at the corner of Barry Marais and Rondebult streets. She says the suspects face charges of business robbery, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and shoplifting. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili
The Gauteng Department of Education says it has dispatched it's psycho-social team to the Lesiba Secondary School in Daveyton, east of Johannesburg. This is to conduct counselling after two learners died on Wednesday. It's believed a grade 10 learner allegedly shot dead another learner before taking his own life. Police are investigating the incident. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng education MEC Panyaza Lesufi
The High Court in Pretoria has declared the AARTO Amendment Act, on which the planned demerit system for traffic offences is based, unconstitutional and invalid. The court delivered the ruling a short while ago. This after the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) challenged the constitutional validity of the Act. In October last year the organisation asked the court to declare both the main Act and the amendment Act unconstitutional. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to OUTA Chief Executive Officer Wayne Duvenage
The death toll in a head-on collision between a minibus and another vehicle on the N1 near Mookgophong in Limpopo, has risen to 17. Transport Department spokesperson Mike Maringa says five more bodies have been discovered inside the burnt bus. Eleven bodies were recovered on Tuesday night. The driver of the other vehicle is among those killed. Eight other people who were passengers on the minibus were killed. Investigations into the cause of the collision are under way. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Katlego Nyoni.
Pietermaritzburg High Court Judge Isaac Madondo has dismissed an application by the first wife and widow of AmaZulu King Goodwill Zwelithini to amend her founding affidavit. Queen Sibongile Dlamini-Zulu and her two daughters Princesses Ntandoyenkosi Zulu and Ntombizosuthu Zulu-Duma are challenging the validity of his will. Yesterday, Queen Sibingile Zulu's legal team, led by Advocate Nigel Redman, told the court that Zwelithini was precluded from marrying other Queens. Handing down his judgment for the amendment of her affidavit, Madondo said that the applicant had not indicated that she might amend the document. He further told the court that allowing an amendment would have far-reaching consequences even for the children of the other Queens and widows. Dlamini-Zulu is asking the court to assert her right to 50 per cent of the late amaZulu King's estate based on her civil marriage to him. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mpumelelo Zikalala of Zikalala Attorneys
The Competition Commission has asked schools and parents to report suppliers who appear to unfairly price school uniforms. Schools are also no longer allowed to force parents to buy uniforms from specific suppliers. The commission says schools should appoint more than one supplier to give parents more options. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Competition Commission's Head of Communications Sipho Mgwema
Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula has unveiled a once-off relief fund to the value of 1.135 billion rand allocated for the benefit of the taxi industry. Mbalula says the Relief Funding is intended to mitigate the negative financial impact of Covid-19 on the taxi industry, without compensating for the loss of income, but rather based on the principle of an ex gratia payment. The minister says relief is intended for all minibus-taxi operators, metered taxis and e-hailing partners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) spokesperson Thabisho Molelekwa
The case of a 36-year-old man who was arrested for allegedly breaking windows at the Constitutional Court in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, has been postponed to March the 25th. The suspect was arrested on Wednesday after he was caught smashing the windows of the highest court in the land with a hammer. Meanwhile,the case against two suspects accused of kidnapping an 11 year old from her school in Mayfair, Johannesburg, has been postponed to the 22nd of February at the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court. The grade 5 pupil was abducted outside the school in November last year, after being dropped off by her mother. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
The City of Cape Town has found that the sprinkler at the National Assembly was last serviced in 2017. It has just released a report on the fire that engulfed Parliament. The City says the valve appeared to have been closed making it impossible to function during fire incidents. The report further reveals that the fire doors were latched open which assisted in the spread of the fire. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in parliament Mercedes Besent
The Road Traffic Infringement Agency - RTIA - says it is on track with the national roll-out of the AARTO Amendment Act. One of AARTO's key features is the Points Demerit system - expected to come into effect from the 1st of July. This will see drivers accrue demerit points for each transgression. When drivers exceed the 15 point threshold, their licenses will be suspended. However, critics of the AARTO system want its roll-out halted. They cite delays in the setting up of an Appeals Tribunal and the recent axing of RTIA CEO, Jeph Chuwe, and other senior officials over alleged maladministration. SABC reporter Tshepo Phagane filed this report
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa-ICASA has lambasted telecommunications company, TELKOM for trying to stop the much-anticipated licensing of the country's International Mobile Telecommunications spectrum which is scheduled for March this year. The licensing via auction is aimed at bringing about universal access to cheaper data and high-speed broadband connectivity in the country. ICASA says it's been served with court papers by TELKOM to try and interdict the process from proceeding on the 7th of March as planned. ICASA has accused TELKOM of pursuing narrow and selfish commercial interests, and has vowed to go ahead with the auctioning of the spectrum because it is in the public interest. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Tshepo Mongoai
Several Zimbabwean nationals are feared dead after a makeshift boat carrying about eight of them reportedly capsized. The occupants were reportedly attempting to cross the crocodile-infested Limpopo River into South Africa. South African police say they are assisting the Zimbabwean authorities to retrieve the bodies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Limpopo Rudzani Tshivhase.
The handing over of the National Assembly Building by the Fire Department to the SAPS is expected to take place once the temperature of the building has cooled off, to ensure safety in entering the building for investigation. This as the DA has called for an independent forensic investigation into the fire that has destroyed several Parliamentary buildings. The roads leading to Parliament have meanwhile been opened. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in parliament, Mercedes Bessent
The Democratic Alliance has called on law enforcement agencies to immediately act following the release of the first of the three-part State Capture report. The DA says now the information is available, recommendations from the report can executed. The report was officially handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa by Acting Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Open Secrets, Hennie van Vuuren.
The High Court in Johannesburg has struck off the roll the application of lobby group Democracy In Action to stop President Cyril Ramaphosa from receiving the first leg of the State Capture report from Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. It believes that it is in conflict of interest as the President was implicated in testimony before the State Capture Commission. The applicants wanted the matter to heard on an urgent basis and for the court to grant an interdict. Flo Letoaba spoke to founder of Democracy In Action, Thabo Mtsweni
A preliminary investigation by the National Consumer Commission (NCCC) has found that Howe Noodles did not cause the deaths of at least three children. The NCCC had earlier revealed that it was probing two noodle brands, one of them Howe Noodles, in connection with the deaths of the children. Two siblings and their cousin, from Motherwell, in the Eastern Cape, died in November 2021 after eating 2-minute noodles, which had been purchased at a local spaza shop. Flo Letoaba spoke to attorney for Howe noodles Hennie Huisamen
The bail application of the 49-year-old man implicated in the the burning of Parliament has been postponed to Tuesday next week by the Cape Town Magistrate's Court. Chris Mafe was arrested in connection with Sunday's fire at Parliament which destroyed offices and led to the collapse of some ceilings. The Hawks say the suspect will be charged under the National Key Point Act. Flo Letoaba spoke to SABC reporter Corbin August
The Economic Freedom Fighters is calling for parliament to be moved to Tshwane. The EFF says any funds allocated for repairs to what appears to be "irreversible damage" to the National Assembly building should be spent on relocating parliament to Tshwane instead. We spoke to EFF's National Chairperson, Veronica Mente..
Civil society organisation, Democracy in Action says it is heading to court on an urgent basis in a bid to stop the State Capture Commission from releasing its final report to President Cyril Ramaphosa. Democracy in Action says Ramaphosa is conflicted as he has been implicated by some of the witnesses. Elvis Presslins spoke to Democracy in Action chairperson, Thabo Mtshweni.
As 2021 draws to a close, it is time to look into the proverbial crystal ball of South Africa's economy. As a small open economy SA is vulnerable to volatility both at a local and global level. The new year represents another inflection point for the SA economy that have been grappling with the deadly coronavirus, rising inequality and rocketing unemployment.. Economist Prof Raymond parsons says - After a likely 5% rebound in GDP growth in 2021, the growth forecasts for 2022 and beyond are conservative - and too low, given SA's immense socioeconomic challenges. Elvis Presslin spoke to Author and Economist Professor Raymond Parson at the North West University School of Business and Governance.
Political analyst, Dr Ralph Mathekga has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to release the long awaited state capture report as soon as possible after it is handed to him. This comes after United Democratic Movement leader, Bantu Holomisa criticised Ramaphosa's request to be given time to consider the report. Holomisa has also suggested that Acting Chief Justice Raymond Zondo present the report to parliament, instead of handing it to Ramaphosa. Elvis Presslin spoke to political analyst, Dr Ralph Mathekga.
Mourners have flocked in to the St George's Cathedral in Cape Town to view the remains of the late Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, where he is lying in state. Public viewing begin this morning and will conclude tomorrow ahead of Tutu's burial on Saturday. The 90-year-old died on Sunday morning at his home in Cape Town. The Anglican Church says Tutu wanted to be buried within a week. Tutu has been granted a category one funeral service by the state. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Lulama Matya
Eastern Cape Police are continuing with their investigations after five family members were brutally murdered at Shisane locality outside Tsolo. Police say the family members were attacked while sleeping by gunmen. The motive for the murders is not known yet. Police spokesperson Thembinkosi Kinana says accordirng to information at their disposal, a family of five people aged between 18 and 82 years of age were sleeping in their home, when unidentified suspects entered their different rooms and shot all of them with firearm. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi.
Minister of Communications and Digital Technology, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has celebrated her first 100 days in office. Ntshavheni says among her biggest achievements so far, she counts the revival of the broadcast digital migration process and her success in reducing the number of court cases against her department. She says some of her priorities for 2022 include the corporatisation of the Post Bank and helping the SABC to be exempted from the Public Finance Management Act which currently prevents the public broadcaster to compete with private companies. SABC News reporter, Tshepo Mongoai reports...
The Department of Health's decision to recall a recent circular on revised COVID-19 Contact Tracing, Quarantine and Isolation protocols, has been met with mixed reactions. In a statement, the Department on Tuesday that the reason for the revision was based on a number of scientific factors including the fact that, most people have vaccinated with at least one dose and developed some level of immunity. This has contributed to the current low hospitalisation and high recovery rates. The department says it has been inundated with inquiries and comments since the release of the revised protocols. Elvis Presslin spoke Media Liaison Officer to the Minister of Health, Doctor Tshwale and South African Medical Association Chairperson, Dr Angelique Coetzee.
Power utility Eskom Spokesperson, Skonathi Mantshantsha has confirmed a transformer explosion at its Camden Power Station in Mpumalanga. Elvis Presslin spoke Mantshantsha on the details.
Security is tight at the Malamulele magistrate court in Limpopo where a 52-year-old suspect is appearing for allegedly shooting and killing seven of his family members at Jimmy Jones village on Christmas Day. A group of residents is protesting at the main entrance, holding placards calling for the suspect not to be granted bail. The violence started after a family feud over the ownership of the home left behind by the late father of the suspect. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC News reporter, Rudzani Tshivhase.
The Grahamstown High Court in Makhanda has ruled that Shell must halt its Seismic survey, planned along the Wild coast, until a second part of an interdict is heard. The application was brought by a number of coastal communities including the Amadiba Crisis Committee after an urgent application was dismissed by the same court two weeks ago. Environmental groups are arguing that the blasting will cause significant and irreparable harm to marine life in the affected area, while Shell has denied this. Elvis spoke to Spokesperson for the Amadiba Crisis Commitee, Nontle Mbuthuma, SABC News reporter Lerato Thipa and Hloniphizwe Mtolo, Country chairperson for Shell
The National Department of Health is expanding its vaccination drive to offer a third booster shot to South Africans who have had two Pfizer vaccinations. The boosters are being administered six months after eligible recipients received their second primary shots. The third booster jabs come in the wake of the rapid spread of the latest Covid 19 variant, Omicron, which has the ability to evade vaccine and infection-induced immunity. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr Lesley Bamford, a specialist and acting Chief Director in the National Department of Health.
Tributes are continuing to pour in following the death of human rights activist and Anglican Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu yesterday. Tutu has been describes as a pillar in the fight against the apartheid system in the country. Tributes to the Nobel Laureate and his devotion to speaking truth to power have been flooding in from all across the world. The 90-year-old died t his Cape Town home on Boxing Day. The country will observe a week of events to mark the his passing, including two days of lying in state before his official state funeral on 1 January in Cape Town. Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent Political Analyst, Sandile Swana
A family in the North West province is still trying to come to terms with the arrest of their 20 year relative who allegedly hired hitmen to kill her parents and siblings in December 2016. The woman appeared in the Brits Magistrates' Court earlier this week . She is facing five charges of murder, together with the two alleged hitmen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to family spokesperson Peter Ratlhagane
A massive new $4-billion green ammonia/hydrogen export project is planned for Nelson Mandela Bay. Construction of the world’s greenest platinum group metals plant is under way in North West province. The mining industry this week backed Eskom’s plans to lease land for renewable energy generation. Sakina Kamwendo presents another update from The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Eskom might plunge the nation into darkness this festive season over compliance with emissions standards. The power utility may be facing an energy crisis as a result of being forced to take power plants offline. That is after the environment department rejected Eskom's application to allow it to continue with current status quo. Eskom is battling to meet the required Minimum Emission Standards regulations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom's spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha...
The Gauteng High Court has ruled that former National Commissioner of Correctional Services Arthur Fraser's decision to place former president Jacob Zuma on medical parole was unlawful. This follows Zuma's 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court, after he refused to continue to appear before the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to legal journalist at Media24, Karyn Maughan and Legal Counselor at the Helen Suzman Foundation, Anton van Dalsen
A UN envoy this week urged South Africa to make use of the funding available for energy transition. Mining companies this week committed themselves to full contract and tax openness to combat corruption. Exploration geologists this week urged South Africa to unlock its amazing jewel box of mineral deposits. Sakina Kamwendo presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly...
The manufacturer of Howe Instant Noodles has denied allegations that their products are unsafe for consumption. This after the National Consumer Commission (NCC) said that it has reasonable suspicion to believe that Grandisync CC, the supplier of Howe Instant Noodles, supplied goods that posed a potential risk to the public following the deaths of three children in the Eastern cape. Sakina Kamwend spoke to Attorney for Grandisync CC, Hennie Huismen
A family in the North West Province, near Vryburg is in agony following the rape of their 10 year old daughter. The family says that they opened a case of rape at the Vryburg police station last month; on the 7th of November however the known suspect has not been arrested and there has been no developments or feedback on the case. The police have allegedly told the family that this is not the case they are dealing with so the family must be patient. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the 10 year old's aunt who could not be named her to protect the victim.
Public service and administration minister Ayanda Dlodlo has urged South Africans to commit to fight corruption as a country. Ayanda Dlodlo delivered the keynote address at the commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day. The day provides an opportunity for political leaders, governments, legal bodies and lobby groups to join forces against corruption. For a look at what the impact of rampant corruption has been on the country, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to researcher at the Public Service Commission and lecturer at the Tshwane University of Technology, Kgabo Morifi.
Eskom chief financial officer Calib Cassim has confirmed that the state -owend power utility has applied for an electricity price increase of 20.5% for its 2023 financial year, set to take effect from 1st April 2022. The company confirmed the information following a press statement from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (nersa), which Eskom it says misrepresented its statement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Energy thought leader CEO and Energy analyst Mike Rossou
National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Shamila Batohi has reiterated that the National Prosecuting Authority is not in a crisis. Batohi is appearing before Parliament to answer questions about the resignation of the head of the Investigating Directorate Hermione Cronje. She has also provided reasons for the NPA missing its own December 2 deadline regarding the prosecution of those implicated in the murder of the Cradock four in the Eastern Cape in 1985. For some analysis Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of Open Secrets Hennie van Vuuren and Lukhanyo Calata; spokesperson for the Fort Calata Foundation and the son of Fort Calata, one of the Cradock 4 assassinated during apartheid
A group of disgruntled fathers has marched to the head office of the Social Development Department in Pretoria, to demand unlimited access to their children. Most of them say the law has restricted them from accessing or spending time with their children. They are demanding changes to the country's Children's Act. Organisers of the march want the law to enforce the rights of children and fathers in divorce processes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Castro Musinyali; the Founder and Chairperson of " We are fathers- We are parents"
Police in Mpumalanga have tracked down a young woman who was reportedly kidnapped as a newborn baby, in Ermelo in 2001. Police say the mother who was 16 at the time gave birth to a baby girl, and was later discharged from the Ermelo Provincial Hospital. She was on her way home when the alleged kidnapper; offered to assist by holding the baby as her mom was experiencing pain. The alleged kidnapper then disappeared with the newborn; according to the police. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala
The Democratic Alliance (DA) says it is confident that the Constitution 18th Amendment Bill will not achieve a two-thirds majority vote in the National Assembly. The party says however that if it does, they will challenge the Bill in court. The Bill is before parliament on Monday for final approval after the Ad Hoc Committee adopted it in September. The Bill seeks to amend Section 25 of the Constitution to facilitate the expropriation of land without compensation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC parliamentary correspondent Mercedes Besent
A 28 year old man accused in the rape and murder of a six year old girl has appeared in the Praktiseer magistrate's court outside Burgersfort in Limpopo. The accused, Levy Nangoma had his case postponed to February first next year. He allegedly lured the girl into his house, raped and strangled her to death. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Jabulani Baloi
National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Shamila Batohi is adamant that the National Prosecuting Authority has the capacity to prosecute complex crimes that involve high-profile people. Batohi briefed the media virtually amid growing public impatience that no major arrests have been following the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture hearings. The briefing also comes after the resignation of Investigating Directorate head, Advocate Hermione Cronje who will officially vacate office in March next year. Cronje was appointed in 2019, to lead the newly established Investigative Directorate which is aimed at fighting corruption. Parliament has called on Batohi and Justice Minister, Ronald Lamola to explain Cronje's departure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to director of Accountability Now Advocate Paul Hoffman
The South African Cargo Transport Drivers Association claims that truck drivers who have blocked the N3 at Van Reenen's Pass between KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, are protesting against the employment of foreign drivers. Trucks closed off the highway in both directions since the early hours of Friday morning, forcing a lengthy traffic backlog. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Daniel Mofokeng, the President of the South African Cargo Transport Drivers Association; and the CEO of the Road Freight Assosiation, Gavin Kelly
The Amadiba Crisis Committee says it has brought a second application for an urgent interdict against oil petroleum giant Shell, which will be heard on December 14th. This; as the organisation prepares to hold a march against Shell this weekend. Meanwhile Shell has welcomed the dismissal of the urgent application to interdict its seismic survey operat ion on the wild coast of the Eastern Cape. Acting Judge Avinash Govindjee dismissed the application with costs. The matter was heard in the Makhanda High Court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the Amadiba Crisis Committee Nonhle Mbuthuma
South Deep gold mine is now planning 50 MW of sun energy with an equal volume of wind energy. Glencore this week promised to institute just transition measures at all the coal mines it closes. Sakina Kamwendo brings you another update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly. He’ll be back At The Coal-Face at the same time next Friday.
Police say Gauteng and Mpumalanga are under siege by blue light robbers who are responsible for a spate of vehicle hijackings in these areas. They are armed gangs who impersonate police and travel in vehicles fitted with blue lights and sirens. Pretending to be police officers, they force motorists to pull over, before hijacking them. Since April 2020, there have been about 300 such cases reported with 40 suspects arrested. A few days ago, a young man whose identity has been concealed for his protection, was hijacked by armed robbers on Gauteng's West Rand using similar tactics. He was also kidnapped and held for 10 hours. Tshepo Phagane has more.
The Kannaland Municipality in Ladismith in the Little Karoo hangs in the balance after the ANC broke ties with its coalition partner, the Independent Civic Organisation of South Africa (ICOSA), over the current mayor's rape conviction. The ANC was put under pressure to review its coalition agreement following gender-based violence activists' calls, upon hearing that they supported a partnership with Kannaland Mayor, Jeffrey Donson. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ICOSA spokesperson, Dawid Kamfer
A victim of a group of criminals, known as the blue light robbers has spoken to the SABC about his horrific ordeal. The experience which lasted more than 10-hours involved other victims, gang rape, and stabbings. The man whose identity has been concealed for his protection has been given the pseudonym - Motsamai. Blue Light robbers impersonate police officers and travel in vehicles fitted with police sirens and blue lights. They stop motorists on the road, pretending to be law enforcers before hijacking or kidnapping their victims. Tshepo Phagane has more….
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) says 85 percent of women now have access to ARV treatment compared to 25 years ago. However, UNICEF says children living with HIV are facing difficulties in accessing HIV-related health services. They have released their annual global HIV and AIDS Statistical Update in Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to UNICEF RepresentativeAnurita Bains
Today is World AIDS Day and scientists have sounded the alarm over thousands of young African girls who continue to bear the brunt of the AIDS and HIV scourge. New research shows that over 4-thousand people are infected daily with 25% of them being young African women. This comes as NGOs say more and more HIV patients have defaulted on their medication during the Covid-19 pandemic. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Executive Officer at NGO HOPE Cape Town, Dr Izane Reyneke
Namibia’s entry into the export of green hydrogen is expected to create 200 000 jobs. South Africa is currently benefiting from the very strong export of platinum into China. The 4 000 MW electricity that the mining industry is planning to generate will be a great boost for Eskom. Sakina Kamwendo brings you another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News andMining Weekly.
First council meeting in the Vhembe District in Limpopo collapsed on Thursday. This after the ANC requested for a break but did not resume the proceedings. SABC specialist researcher Maswele Ralebona talks to Sakina Kamwendo
Activist organisation Ritshidze, has launched a detailed report into the state of public healthcare systems in Gauteng. The report has found that clinics are plagued by unfriendly service and disorganised filling systems. The report is based on the results of data collected through Ritshidze's community-led monitoring of the 118 clinics in Gauteng will be presented to the Gauteng Department of Health and other duty bearers at a community meeting in Katlehong . Sakina kamwendo spoke to Ritshidze's Project Manager Bellinda Setshogelo....
Businessman, Sipho Pityana, has been removed as an ABSA Board Director with immediate effect. According to a statement from the Absa Group, their decision to remove him is due to his alleged recent conduct, which amounts to dereliction of duty. It says Pityana had pursued his own personal interests to the detriment of the bank - causing sustained and irresoluble conflict. Last month, Pityana served court papers on the Prudential Authority of the Reserve Bank - claiming that his nomination to become the Bank's Chairman was unfairly blocked. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sipho Pityana
The High Court in Pretoria has heard a case of the Democratic Alliance, lobby group Afriform and that of the Helen Suzman Foundation to challenge the granting of former president Zuma 's medical parole. They want the parole reviewed and set aside. Zuma was granted medical parole in September for his 15-month contempt sentence. Jon Gericke spoke to reporter Prabashini Moodley
Metros across the country held their inaugural council meetings to elect their new mayors. This, as most municipalities will be serving through coalitions following the 2021 local government elections. The DA's Doctor Mpho Phalatse was elected the new Mayor of the City of Johannesburg yesterday. Phalatse's appointment marked the second major blow to the ANC, which also lost the City of Ekurhuleni, where the DA's Tania Campbell, beat the ANC's outgoing city mayor Mzwandile Masina. In Ethekwini, the inaugural council meeting was postponed after police had into interveen after a group of alleged ANC supporters disrupted the meeting. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter Abongile Dumako
The Department of Health is continuing its investigations into possible food poisoning in Mpumalanga, the Eastern Cape and Gauteng. This follows the deaths of children who allegedly died after consuming noodles. The department earlier says the remainder of the food products have been collected from affected households and sent to laboratories for testing. Jon Gericke spoke to department of health's director for environmental health Murdock Ramathuba
The first council meetings after the election have been the major focus on Monday, specifically at key metros across the country. The deadline to form municipal governments is on Tuesday. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporters: Vusi Makhosini in Ethekwini, Abogile Dumako in the City of Johannesburg, Mcebisi Ngqina in Nelson Mandela Bay and Tshepo Phagane in Ekurhuleni about the developments in these metros...
Police have launched a manhunt after a group of armed men robbed the Malamulele Police Station, in Limpopo, of firearms and ammunition. The criminals also reportedly robbed businesses near the police station. It's reported that police were bundled into a van while the robbery took place. This is a second police station to be robbed in the area in a week. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter in Limpopo Mahlatsi Phaladi
It’s that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News andMining Weekly. Zambia is showing huge enthusiasm to go green and attract investment in its huge copper endowment. Glencore is ‘justly transitioning’ from coal by growing wheat in the coalfields of Mpumalanga. South Africa is now attracting less than 1% of global investment in exploration.
Massmart workers affiliated to the South African Commercial Catering and Allied Workers (SACCAWU) will embark on a strike. The strike will affect Massmart owed stores including Makro, Game, Builders Warehouse, Cambridge and Jumbo. Unions are demanding a ten percent salary increase for workers at Builders. Massmart owns more than 400 stores in thirteen sub- Saharan countries. Jon Gericke spoke to Saccawu deputy general secretary Mduduzi Mbongwe
The Department of Basic Education is developing new legislation to address the high number of dropouts at South Africa's schools. South Africa's Basic Education Act currently compels parents to ensure that their kids attend schools. Those parents who fail to do so would be found guilty of an offence and can be fined or be imprisoned to a sentence not exceeding six months. However, Basic Education Department says new bill would introduce additional measures to hold principals, parents and governing bodies accountable for non-attendance. Jon Gericke spoke to spokesperson of the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga...
Police are investigating the deaths of two more children who died allegedly after eating noodles in Mpumalanga. This as police in the Eastern Cape await a toxicology report following the deaths of three children who allegedly died after eating packet noodles they had bought from a local shop. Jon Gericke spoke to Embalenhle police spokesperson Constable Busisiwe Mthethwa
Eskom says it will implement stage two rolling blackouts with effect from two o'clock this afternoon to five o'clock on Saturday morning. The move is aimed at preserving emergency reserves after five generating units failed at the power utility's different power stations. Eskom chief executive officer André de Ruyter says the rolling blackouts are inevitable. Jon Gericke spoke to Independent Energy Thought Leaders' CEO Mike Rossouw..
This week on the The Coal-Face with publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, Martin Creamer looks at the Bafokeng taking the lead in going green by doing a spectacular deal with Northam Platinum; Green hydrogen presents a huge opportunity for the African continent, says Minister Gwede Mantashe and Global cooperation is essential in moving the needle against climate change, COP26 has emphasised.
Several officials have been arrested at Lebombo Border Post. Law enforcement agency, the Hawks arrested eight officials for alleged corruption at the Border Post. This follow an almost two year investigation following a tip off from a whistleblower. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi
Former President FW De Klerk has died in Cape Town at the age of 85-years-old. His foundation says De Klerk died peacefully this morning at home in Frennaye. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairperson of the FW De Klerk Foundation, Dave Steward
The Ethiopian community in South Africa remains cautiously optimistic that a solution will be found that will end the conflict in the Tigray region. More than 900-thousand people face famine in the north of the country as the de facto humanitarian blockade remains in place. The year long conflict between the government of Ethiopia and the Tigray people Liberation Front and its affiliate groups has been running for over a year. This as the Human Rights Watch says the Ethiopian government’s blocking of aid and essential services, with health facilities in Tigray region destroyed, is preventing survivors of sexual violence from obtaining essential post-rape care. SABC's Khayelihle Khumalo filed a report on this and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director in the Africa Division at Human Rights Watch, Laetitia Bader, in Italy Rome
The Hawks are investigating the theft of drugs worth 200 million rand from their offices in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal, over the weekend. At least 540 kilograms of cocaine with a street value of about R200m, were stolen from the building were stolen. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Nomthandazo Mbambo
Coalition are the buzz word after the recent local government elections after no party managed to get an outright majority in eight municipalities including the three metro's in Gauteng. To pave the way for coalition governance most of the political parties have set out strict non-negotiable coalition conditions as well as teams to negotiate the coalitions to ensure the future working environments run smoothly. SABC reporter Liela Magnus filed a report on this matter; and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to professor Susan Booysen, editor of the book Marriages of Inconvenience: The politics of coalitions in South Africa
The ANC in the Northern Cape has called for a recount of 24 ballots from the Siyancuma Municipality in a ward that the party lost to an independent candidate. The ballots were unstamped and previously thought to be spoilt. But the ANC lodged a dispute and the IEC is in Douglas for the recount. The municipality is currently one of the ten hung councils in the province. Independent candidate, Benjamin Makabe, has questioned the recount. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Ulrich Hendriks in the Northern Cape
An overall majority of 95 percent of voters believed that the 2021 local government elections were free and fair. This is according to the preliminary findings of the Human Sciences Research Council's Election Satisfaction Survey presented at the national results operations centre in Pretoria on Wednesday. The survey, which interviewed over twelve thousand voters, also revealed that a majority of people with special needs indicated that voting procedures considered the needs of the elderly, persons with disabilities, the partially sighted and blind, pregnant women and women with babies. Sakina kamwendo spoke to Divisional Executive for Developmental, Capable and Ethical State at the Human Sciences Research Council, Professor Narnia Bohler-Muller and Political Analyst Aubrey Matshiqi
Political parties continue to monitor as the results of South Africa's sixth Local Government elections are steadily coming in at the IEC Results Operations Centre in Pretoria this morning. However, concerns over the lower voter turn-out have been raised by many across the political spectrum. Sakina Kamwendo chats to Political Analysts, Dr Collette Schulz-Herzenber and Aubrey Matshiqi
The IEC says that everything is on track to deliver the local government elections on the 1st of November. Approximately 26 million South Africans are eligible to vote in the polls, with over 95 thousand candidates running to capture about 10-thousand-500 seats in the country's 257 municipalities. Election Specialist and founder of Institute of Election Management Services in Africa (IEMSA) Terry Tselane weighs in...
Major global moves to convert to hydrogen energy is a big boost for South Africa's platinum metals; far-reaching steps were taken this week to consolidate South Africa's platinum mines; disadvantaged First Nation communities in Canada see green hydrogen as a reconciliation opportunity. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly about these issues...
Those who will not be able to make it to the voting stations on Election Day on Monday will have an opportunity to vote this weekend. These are people who may be sick, disabled or elderly and who may be working on 1st of November, who applied to the IEC for special voting. Special voting takes the form of home visits as well as making one's mark at voting stations. There are 1.1 million people who have applied for the special vote. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC General Manager for Electoral Operations, Granville Abrahams ...
The Independent Electoral Commission says everything is on track for the local government elections on Monday. Special voting will commence on Saturday and Sunday the 30th and 31st of October, with approximately 26-million eligible South African voters. Over 95 thousand candidates are contesting for 10-thousand-500 seats in the country's 257 municipalities. South Africa has 504 political parties currently registered with the Independent Electoral Comission, with 325 contesting LGE. To unpack this year's election stakes Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC specialist researcher, Maswele Ralebona and political analyst, Mcebisi Ndletyana
South African cricketer Quinton de Kock, has apologised to his team mates and all South Africans for withdrawing from the T20 World Cup match against the West Indies on Tuesday. This after he rejected a Cricket South Africa directive that players must 'take a knee' before their matches in show of anti-racism solidarity. De Kock issued a statement read here by SAfm senior producer Obriel Mpofu; and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Timeslive contributor and analyst Eusebius McKaiser
Gauteng police are investigating a shooting in which an alleged member of the Boko Haram gang was shot dead in Pretoria yesterday. Mamelodi, residents, believe that the alleged vigilante killer, who has named himself after a movie persona, John Wick is allegedly killing members of the so-called Boko Haram gang. Chairperson of the Community Policing Forum in Mamelodi West, Tebogo Mashigo....
Eskom has implemented stage 4 loadshedding as of noon up until 5 o'clock Friday morning, where the country will go back to stage 2 loadshedding. Energy analyst, Ted Blom weighs in on this development....
Striking truck drivers have been served with court papers, instructing them to remove the trucks blockading the N10 near Middleburg in the Eastern Cape. The drivers have been blockading the road since Sunday. They are demanding the immediate removal of truck drivers of foreign origin from the country's roads and the verification of their documents. This happens as there are reports that South Africa is experiencing a shortage of experienced truck drivers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Lwando Nomoyi and Arnoux Mare, Managing Director of Innovative Staffing Solutions
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it is ready for whatever avenue former president Jacob Zuma's legal team wants to pursue following Tuesday's judgment in the High Court in Pietermaritzburg. Judge Piet Koen dismissed Zuma's special plea application for the recusal of State prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer. The application was part of the special plea Zuma had entered in the corruption case against him. Zuma and French arms company Thales are facing charges of corruption, racketeering and money laundering in connection with South Africa's multi-billion-rand arms deal in the 90's. Judge Piet Koen 's delivers the judgement and Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC reporter Vusi Makhosini
The Bhisho High court has granted Eastern Cape premier, Oscar Mabuyane and public works MEC, Babalo Madikizela an interim interdict to stay Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's remedial action. This is related to the public protector's report implicating Mabuyane and Madikizela on misappropriation of funds during the memorial service for Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mabuyane's lawyer Ngido Sakhela
The Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation says no approval has been granted for the demolition of the iconic Eyethu Cinema in Soweto in Johannesburg. This comes after contradicting reports that the structure will be demolished to make way for the erection of a mall in its place. Situated in Mofolo, the cinema was opened in 1969 by businessman and former mayor of Soweto, Ephraim "Mshengu" Tshabalala. The department says an application was submitted to the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority of Gauteng for the demolishing of the structure but a decision has not be made. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Nomazwe Nhlokwana...
The small end of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange is in danger of collapsing unless something is done to incentivise it; shareholders unhappy with a director’s pay level this week voted out one of South Africa’s biggest names in international mining; South Africans need to take drastic and urgent action to eliminate our huge mining applications backlog. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Martin Creamer about these issues ...
The Road Freight Association has raised some concerns over the introduction of toll fees on trucks by the Zimbabwean government at the Beitbridge border post. Trucks are being charged more than $200. There have been reports of chaos and delays in the past few days following the introduction of these new toll fees. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Road Freight Association CEO Gavin Kelly
Former minister, Jeff Radebe says he hopes the SADeC deployment to Eswatini resolve the unrest in that country. Radebe is part of the envoys appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to meet with King Mswati III amid ongoing protest. This comes as violence and allegations of human rights violations continue. Social media has been abuzz with video's showing security forces shooting at civilians. There are reports that one person has been killed and at least 80 people wounded in the latest round of protests. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a civilian in Eswatini who wished to remain anonymous. He says he has very little hope that the SADeC will resolve the issue...
The search for four siblings who were kidnapped on the outskirts of Polokwane on Wednesday is continuing. Six year-old Zidan, 11-year-old Zayyad, 13-year-old Alaan and 15-year-old Zia Moti were allegedly kidnapped by seven heavily armed men while being transported to school. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Anti crime activist Yusuf Abramjee about this and other recent incidents across the country
A case of kidnapping involving girls has been reported in a village outside Louis Trichardt in Limpopo. Police say two girls, aged 13 and 15, were allegedly abducted and gang-raped in Tshitunitshafhasi village. They were found in a house rented out to some people; mostly construction workers after the community members searched the area. Police say the teenagers were kept in the house for four days. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter in Limpopo, Rudzani Tshivhase
The High Court sitting in Palm Right in Ekurhuleni has heard of that one of the accused in the Nathaniel Julies murder trial, Caylen Whiteboy did not follow any of her firearm training the night Julies was murdered. The cross-examination has resumed after it was adjourned for one day. The 16-year Eldorado Park boy was shot and killed in August last year allegedly by the police. Three officers are standing trial for their alleged involvement in the murder. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Horisani Sithole
Prices for potatoes in South Africa have seen a huge increase over the past year, setting a new record high for the staple vegetable. Earlier this October, a bag of 10kg potatoes increased by 13%. The high demand and extremely low volumes have resulted in the potato price increasing sharply. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting information manager at Potatoes South Africa, Jano Bezuidenhout
The former Zambian and Orlando Pirates coach, Milutin "Micho" Sredojevic, has been handed a three year suspended prison sentence in the regional court in Gqeberha. The sentence is suspended for five years. The case against 51-year old stems from the 2020 Cosafa Cup in Gqeberha where Sredojevic inappropriately touched a 39-year old woman at the Wolfson Stadium. The court also granted him leave to appeal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter in Gqeberha Lwando Nomoyi
It’s that time again on a Friday whenUpdate@Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News andMining Weekly.This week, South Africa was urged to mine the critical metals and minerals that combat climate change; steps are being taken to generate clean electricity from South Africa’s many disused mineshafts; the mining boom is papering over many structural issues that are threatening the industry’s future.
Taxi drivers at Korsten in Gqeberha say they're scared to operate again hence they opted to move their taxis to a different location. Korsten was the scene of violent attacks yesterday afternoon where about eight minibus taxis were set alight and a number of small cars. Taxi operators have accused foreign nationals of anarchy, saying they're the ones that who protected their businesses during the looting spree in July. Three shops belonging to Somali nationals were petrol bombed at KwaZakhele and Zwide overnight. The incident followed a collision between a taxi and a car on Durban Road. Police are patrolling the area. Elvis Preslin interviewed SABC reporter, Zolani Moya and independent analyst, Izak Khomo
Police have opened a missing person's report following the disappearance of a 15-year old girl. Rasetja Mothoa went missing last week Tuesday at a Kalkspruit village outside Polokwane, Limpopo. Police say Mothoa was seen in the company of self proclaimed prophet, Paul Madubanya. One of Madubanya's congregants, 17-year-old Neo Setena, died a month ago after consuming brake fluid at his home. SABC reporter Pimani Baloyi has been investigating this story and spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Mangaung Metro police officers who embarked on protest action which lead to the cordoning off of the municipality headquarters in Bloemfontein on Wednesday will face disciplinary action. The officers brought operations to a standstill shutting all staff outside the building demanding appointment letters. The Mangaung metro police appointments have been clouded with allegations of irregular appointment processes. SABC reporter Konelo Makhafola compiled a report on this matter and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting City Manager of Mangaung, Sello More
The decision by SAPS management to halt the intake of new police recruits has been received with mixed reactions. Some say this will exacerbate the crime situation in the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Johan Burger, Consultant, Justice and Violence Prevention at the Institute for Security Studies...
Tax payers will cough up about R5 million to fix Homu sports centre in Mopani District, Limpopo that was built six years ago and never used. The centre was instead its been vandalised and left for goats and cattle to roam around. The original contract was for 6-point-5 million rand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Giyani Municipality spokesperson, Steven Mabunda...
Two thousand fans will for the first time be allowed in the FNB stadium since March last year, for Bafana Bafana's World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia. Fans were prohibited from attending sports event as part of measures to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. Stadium Management CEO Bertie Grobbelaar says all safety measures were in place to see the safe return of fans to the FNB Stadium. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Bertie Grobbelaar...
The South African Airways says it is confident that all new agreements reached with all stakeholders; following the business rescue process, were negotiated fairly and equitably. This as workers represented by the South African Cabin Crew Association and NUMSA are picketing outside SAA's Airways Park office in Kempton Park east of Johannesburg. The picket relates to what they consider to be unfair working conditions. SAA spokesperson Vimla Maistry responds to the protest and Sakina Kamwendo interviews Deputy President of the South African Cabin Crew Association, Christopher Shabangu
Three police officers are back in the High Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court in Ekurhuleni on Monday in connection with their alleged involvement in the murder of teenager, Nathaniel Julies. Last week the court heard a recording that the police officers implicated in the death of the boy - who had Down Syndrome - may have been drinking on the job. The recording also revealed their alleged plot to cover up the murder. The secret recording was taken by a constable who was present when the incident took place. Julies' mother Bridget Harries says the recording is an indication that police need better training. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Horisani Sithole
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng's term ends at midnight,on Monday, October 11th. He became a Constitutional Court judge in 2009 and was nominated for the position of Chief Justice by former President Jacob Zuma in 2011. His career was not without controversy - especially around his religious views, as SABC Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports...
It’s that time again on a Friday when Update@Noon presents another update from The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly. This week we saw, investment in mineral exploration sink to its lowest level since the start of our democracy in 1994, South Africans hurt by companies of significance not being open to public scrutiny and major mining licence backlogs are delaying job creation. Update@Noon presenter, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him about these latest developments.
Cross-examination in the Nathaniel Julies murder trial has continued in the High Court sitting in Palm Ridge in Ekurhuleni. On Wednesday, a damming audio recording implicated one of the accused Caylene Whiteboy. State witness, Constable Mandla Sithole who was with the two of the accused officers at the time of the crime was cross-examined. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Horisani Sithole
The Presidency has confirmed that the National Commissioner of Police, Khehla Sitole, has been served with a notice of suspension. In a statement the acting spokesperson in the Presidency, Tyrone Seale, says the President has decided to institute an inquiry into Sitole's alleged misconduct and fitness to hold office. Seale says the President wrote to the commissioner last month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to crime analyst and former head of police crime information analysis centre, Dr Chris de Kock
The Komani-based Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape has sought to clarify the controversy surrounding its recently opened multi-million-rand stadium and sports field in Lesseyton. Images of the official opening of the facility on the municipality's Facebook page have sparked public outrage. The social media posting with pictures of the opening has since been deleted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Municipal Manager, Nokuthula Zondani
DA leader John Steenhuisen says the party will not apologise or remove the posters put up in Phoenix in north of Durban. The DA in KwaZulu-Natal has come under fire on social media the controversial posters. The posters, placed on top of each other, read: "The ANC called you racists" and "The DA calls you heroes." The party is being accused of fueling racial divisions in the community of black and Indian residents. At the height of the unrest that ravaged parts of KZN and Gauteng in July, the area was mired in racial tensions that resulted in the deaths of 36 people. The killings sparked a countrywide outcry over racism in the area. Steenhuisen was engaging journalists during the parties water interruptions picket outside Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. Sakina Kamwendo also spoke to political analyst Angelo Fick
Workers at the Durban & Coastal Mental Health facility in the Durban suburb of Sherwood, have prevented management from entering the premises. The workers workers downed tools on Tuesday, calling for the board to step down. On placards protesting workers have urged government to step in at the facility. This after allegations in recent years of abuse of patients and poor conditions. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter in Durban Nonkululeko Hlophe
The IEC says it is unlikely that it will be able to add the names of 15 parties whose names are omitted from the local government elections ballot paper. These parties, which include Herman Mashaba's ActionSA did not, according to the Electoral Commission, provide an abbreviated name or acronym when registering their parties with the institution and thus will only have their logo and names of the ward candidate featured on the November 1 ballot paper. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ActionSA spokesperson Lerato Ngobeni and Prof Barry Hanyane, Associate Professor at the School of Governance at North-West University
Young people are a critical constituency for any politician hoping to win votes in an election. In their manifestos and during their campaigns, political parties and candidates make a wide range of promises - from job opportunities to improved services - to attract voters. But do they really understand young people's needs... and do their messages resonate with them? Reporter Tshepo Phagane spoke to several young people in Gauteng about the upcoming municipal elections and discovered a vocal youth that wants to be heard.
The murder trial of Mugiyo Mabunda has begun at the Mpumalanga High Court. Mabunda is accused of killing his wife last year. Mabunda is alleged to have shot his wife 10 times outside their home in Mbombela during an argument. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi...
Three policemen accused of killing 16-year old Nathaniel Julies in Eldorado park in 2020, have appeared in the Johannesburg High Court. The teen was gunned down just meters away from his home. Two of the accused was granted one-thousand rand bail each while the third was granted 10-thousand rand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reportHorisani Sithole...
Friday, 1st of October, is the last day for the public to make submissions on who they think the next Chief Justice should be. This, as the term of the incumbent, Mogoeng Mogoeng, ends in just 10 days. Despite the fact that President Cyril Ramaphosa has the Constitutional prerogative to pick the next Chief Justice -- he has invited the public to submit their nominations by close of business on Friday. This, he says, is to ensure transparency and public participation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Zikhona Ndlebe, research and advocacy officer at Judges Matter
New incumbent Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana says it'll take public and private sector investment to achieve an infrastructure-led economic recovery. Godongwana says government will need to remove any perceived barriers to investment, while formulating instruments through which the private sector can invest in public infrastructure. Godogwana was delivering a virtual keynote address at an Investment Dialogue hosted by the Sunday Times newspaper in collaboration with ABSA bank. Naledi Ngcobo filed this report
The Justice Department has invited comments regarding the revised Regulations aimed at providing financial assistance to declared Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) victims and their relatives and dependents. The new regulations will be implemented for a period of 13 years starting next year. The department has also invited persons TRC identified victims to apply for Basic and Higher Education Study Assistance programmes. Some activists who have been assisting TRC victims say they are in the dark about these developments and have raised concerns about the lack of engagement by government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Natinal Director of the Khulumani Support group Dr Marjorie Jobson
Murder accused, and ex-convict, Gwanqa Brian Somfako is appearing in the Nigel magistrate's court on a charge of murder. Somfako is accused of killing 27-year old, Duduza resident, Samantha Zungu who was pregnant at the time. It's alleged that Somfako was demanding a share of their two children's grant. Last month the accused abandoned his bail application. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter on Sashin Naidoo...
A high-ranking Eastern Cape education department official has been arrested by the Hawks special investigation unit on tender fraud related allegations. The arrest comes after fraud investigations worth millions of rand. The official was reportedly taken in at the Zwelitsha Police Station. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter in the Eastern Cape Xolani Sitshinga
The Special Investigating Unit report into the Digital Vibes Covid-19 communication contract has revealed damning findings against a number of people including former health minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize. President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the publication of the final report n Wednesday. The company was awarded 150-million-rand to provide communication during the Covid19 pandemic last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Ntebo Mokobo, the Democratic Alliance shadow minister of health, Siviwe Gwarube and political analylist, Sanusha Naidu...
Traditional leaders organisation, CONTRALESA has expressed concern at what it calls moral decay amongst young people in the country. Contralesa president, Kgosi Larmeck Mokoena says this year's heritage celebrations should be dedicated to teaching young people the African way of doing things. Vusi Shongwe reports
Many Traditional Healers or Sangomas are using online platforms like Zoom and WhatsApp video call to consult with patients. But it does not sit well with those who view this as undermining African heritage and making this traditional practice fashionable. As part of the Heritage month focus - Tshepo Phagane spoke to some traditional healers and the public to get their views about Sangomas using technology to consult and market themselves to potential clients...
The University of the Free State has condemned the attacks on students at the University of the Free State and the Maluti TVET College. The victims were shot and killed during an attack at their off campus residence. Police say the attackers, wearing balaclavas, demanded cash, laptops and cellphones from the students. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Ismael Modiba and first asked him the developments at the scene...
The movement #Paythegrants is picketing at the Department of Social Development and SASSA, unhappy with all the glitches in the grant system, especially the R350 Covid relief grant. The movement wants SASSA to improve the system to ensure all beneficiaries get their monthly payments without hiccups. The say the system failures are compromising millions of desperate South Africans, especially unemployed youth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the #Paythegrants movement Israel Nkuna
The new South African Airways flights have returned to the skies after being grounded since last year. This as, the Takatso Consortium, SAA's preferred strategic equity partner has made it clear that it is not yet involved in the management, funding, or relaunch of the airline. The consortium says it is still negotiating with the government around the share purchase agreement for 51% of SAA, which is subject to various approvals and pre-conditions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the department of Public Enterprises Director General Kgathatso Tlhakudi
Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe's request for his matter to be heard by a judge in another division has been dismissed by Deputy Judge President of the High Court in Johannesburg Roland Sutherland. The court briefly heard the first part of Hlophe's urgent review application. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Mercedes Besent...
The Limpopo High Court has on Friday ruled in favour of the late Michael Komape's family to compels the provincial education department to provide a detailed list of schools with pit toilets along with plans to eradicate them. Michael drowned in a pit toilet in 2014 at the age of 5. The case has thrown a spotlight on pit toilets across the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Basic Department of Education spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga and first asked him about the progress the department has made in eradicating pit toilets in the country
An investigation by the Maverick Citizen has uncovered that a small, unknown company, operating under two names has scored contracts worth hundreds of millions of rand from the South African Police Service (SAPS). According the report, Red Roses Africa, has no traceable history of supplying personal protective equipment (PPE) products; but managed to get more that 500-million rand paid for supplying masks, hand sanitiser and disinfectant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Maverick Citizen editor Mark Heywood
The Judicial Service Commission is meeting on Monday on whether or not to recommend the suspension of Judge Hlophe or not. Hlophe has given the JSC, speaker of the national assembly President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Justice minister until end of business today to file their replying affidavits whether or not they intend to oppose his interdict to stop the president from suspending him. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Mercedes Besent.
Former Tembisa police officer, Nomia Ndlovu, has testified that she didn't kill her niece, Zanele Motha, but had tried to save her life by rushing her to hospital on the night of her death. Ndlovu is being cross examined at the High Court in Johannesburg where she's standing trial for the killing of her boyfriend and five of her family members. She is also alleged to have fraudulently benefited from insurance claims amounting to over 1.4 million rand. Ndlovu was arrested in 2018 after an alleged hitman informed the police that she had recruited him to kill her sister and five children. The police set up a sting operation and captured Ndlovu giving such instructions on camera. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Sashin Naidoo and first asked him the latest coming out of court...
The Inkatha Freedom Party says despite it accepting the Constitutional Court's latest decision on the upcoming local government elections, the party believes the apex court may have erred in its judgment. This after the ConCourt upheld a decision of the Electoral Commission to re-open the candidate nomination process. The Court on Monday dismissed the Democratic Alliance's application to have the IEC's decision declared unlawful. The DA was opposed to the Commission reopening the process to allow the elections to go ahead by November. It believes the decision privileged parties such as the ANC and UDM that were unable to submit its candidates before the deadline closed in August. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IFP Spokesperson, Mkhuleko Hlengwa...
Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says there are tens of thousands of uncollected Identity Documents in their officers throughout the country. The minister has briefed the media on the state of readiness to offer Home Affairs services during the voter registration weekend. Home Affairs offices are expected to be open to issue identity cards. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi
The community of Enkovukeni at KwaMhlabuyalingana in northern KwaZulu-Natal has threatened not to vote in the upcoming local government elections. The island community is still without access to basic services like water and electricity. Community members who have been living here all their lives, say that every election, they are promised a better life but nothing changes. SABC's Khalesakhe Mbhense reports…
The department of Basic Education has announced that matric examinations will now be written from October 27th in order to accommodate the municipal elections on the 1st of November. Matric learners were scheduled to sit for their first exam on the same date as the municipal elections. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Department of Basic Education spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga...
A former police officer accused of plotting to murder six family members continues her testimony in her own defence in the Palm Ridge Magistrate's court. Nomia Ndlovu has pleaded not guilty to the charges against her. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Horisani Sithole for an update on the court proceedings
The bodies of two minor girls who were went missing from their home at Marobjane village in Senwabarwana, Limpopo over three weeks ago have been discovered in the bushes of a nearby village. Fiver year old Lesego Raphasha and her seven year old sister, Kamogelo, left their home in the company of a female relative who is said to suffer from a mental condition on the afternoon of the 23rd of August. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter in Limpopo Rudzani Tshivhase
Over 50 families in Orange Farm south of Johannesburg are still waiting to move into their new RDP houses, five years after construction began. Last year all 53 were demolished due to poor workmanship. A new contractor was appointed but has only erected 20 structures with no roofs, doors or windows. Gauteng's Human Settlements Department has more than 1300 houses across the province that are incomplete, some were abandoned due to shoddy workmanship. Tshepo Phagane has more…
The ANC has expressed concern that some of its gatherings have been hijacked by criminals and gangsters. At least three people were killed at an ANC meeting to finalise the nomination of a ward councilor at Inanda north of Durban, at the weekend. And its headquarters, Luthuli House in Johannesburg, has been a protest site with unhappy branches protesting over imposed candidates for the November 1 local government elections. Ntebo Mokobo reports...
Government says it has received nearly 13 million applications since the reopening claims for the special Social Relief of Distress grant in the first week of August. During his address last night, President Cyril Ramaphsa has committed that government will continue to implement measures to assist households that have been affected by the pandemic. We have, however, been inundated with queries from our listeners who have encountered challenges with the process and to answer some of your questions, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Paseka Letsatsi
Violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to cost lives and drive people from their homes. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has recorded more than 1-thousand-200 deaths and 1-thousand-100 rapes this year in North Kivu and Ituri. The UNHCR says millions of people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to UNHCR representative, Liz Kpam Ahua, and first asked her to give some background into the matter...
Lawyers representing the families of the Marikana Massacre have asked Judge Colin Lamont to recuse himself from the class suit because he is conflicted. Judge Lamont who is presiding over the lawsuit, was found to actually own shares worth R225-thousand in Sibanye Stillwater, the new owners after Lonmin. Advocate Dali Mpofu, says he has learnt this morning that the judge sold his shares. At least 34 mineworkers were killed during the Marikana Massacre in August 2012 and several others were seriously injured. They were demanding a salary of R12,500 and improved living conditions.
The Director-General for the Department of Public Enterprises, Kgathatso Tlhakudi says by 2030, South Africa needs to be serviced by a set of efficient, financially sound, and well-governed SOEs. He was briefing the Select committee on Public enterprises and communications on measures its taken to improve other state-owned enterprises. This follows the collapse of SAA and others. Our reporter in parliament, Joseph Mosia. And the Director-General for the Department of Public Enterprises, Kgathatso Tlhakudi
The Ad Hoc Committee to Amend Section 25 of the Constitution to Expropriate Land Without Compensation has considered and adopted its draft report on the Constitution's 18th Amendment Bill. The committee's lifespan was extended by another two weeks to conclude its work and report back to the National Assembly. More than 148-thousand submissions were received during the consultation process on the Bill. For more on this here is our correspondent in parliament, Mercedes Besent...
The Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke, has painted a gloomy picture of municipalities whose audit outcomes remained poor. She was briefing the Select Committee on Appropriations and Select Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Water and Sanitation and Human Settlements in the NCOP on the local government audit outcomes for the 2019/20 financial year. Jay Kruuse, Director at Public Service Accountability Monitor gives us some analysis on this...
ANC veteran Bushy Maape has officially taken over as North West premier following his election by the provincial legislature this morning. 67-year-old Maape, replaces Job Mokgoro who was recalled from the top post by the ANC's North West interim provincial committee (IPC) last month. Our reporter in Mahikeng Patrick Dintwa gives us the details...
The South African economy has recorded its fourth consecutive quarter of growth, expanding by 1-point-2 percent between April and June. Despite this, the economy is 1-point-4 percent smaller than what it was prior to the covid-19 pandemic. Stats SA says the economic impact of the economic disruption, protest action, and violence in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, which took place in July, will reflect in the third quarter GDP results that are due for release in December. Chief economist at Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt....
Police have resumed their search for the bodies of four youths in Driftsand in Delft on the Cape Flats. They are allegedly victims of mob justice. Police say they have recovered two bodies so far, however these are not part of the missing four. Police Spokesperson, Brigadier Novela Potelwa....
The City of Cape Town's Safety and Security Portfolio Committee has defended its approval of a by-law that will see homeless people fined if they refuse offered shelter. Chairperson, Mzwakhe Nqavashe, says their recommendation will be sent to the Mayoral Committee and then Council for final approval. Nqavashe says the by-law will only be enforced once all processes have been completed. For more on this Mzwakhe Nqavashe
The IEC is expected to hold a media briefing later today on Friday's Constitutional Court ruling regarding the Municipal Elections. The Electoral Commission (IEC) lost its application to have the vote postponed to February next year. Former IEC commissioner, Terry Tselane gives us a preview of what we could see happen...
The South African Human Rights Commission has been granted leave to intervene in Olympic gold medalist Caster Semenya's challenge to regulations that prevent her from competing internationally. The decision was made by the European Court of Human Rights after the SAHRC applied to be recognized as a third party in the matter. Human Rights Commissioner Adv. Andre Hurtley Gaum...
Companies in South Africa who are wanting to implement a mandatory Covid-19 vaccination policy would need to meet several legal obligations in order to fire an employee for refusing to take the jab. This comes as Financial Services Group, Discovery announced that it would institute a mandatory vaccination policy for its employees and suppliers effective from January 2022. Unions have come out against the plan calling it a 'slippery slope' for workers. Founder of Labourwise, Jan Truter elaborates...
A group of protesting mining community, mostly women at Ga Mampa village near the old Sefateng Chrome Mine outside Burgersfort in Limpopo, have spent another night camping outside the mine. They are trying to stop trucks laden with chrome from leaving the mine. They're accusing the mine of failing to plough back to the community as per the social labour plan since 2014. They accuse the mine for failing to compensate them for loss of land and relocating the cemetery. A contingent of police has been deployed to the area. SABC Reporter, Rudzani tshivhase has more.
As the inquest into the deaths of 144 Life Esidimeni mentally-ill patients continues today, there have been reports of another tragedy at the Kairos Centre psychiatric facility in Cullinan, Gauteng. Five patients have reportedly died at the centre in less than two months. There have been claims that patients are being neglected and starved among other concerns. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Christian Jordaan whose' brother Shane, was found dead after he disappeared from the facility.
The trial of three people accused of allegedly killing a mother of 2 for insurance payouts comes to a conclusion in the Circuit High Court in George in the Southern Cape. The three face charges of fraud and murder of 25-year-old Hlompo Mohapi from Thembalethu in July 2018. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sagree Chetty.
Telecom operators, licensees that were assigned temporary radio frequency spectrum have until the end of November 2021 to return it to ICASA. The temporary radio frequency spectrum was first assigned during April 2020 on the initial declaration of the National State of Disaster to allow mobile operators to meet the spike in demand. However, MTN has warned that the decision by ICASA could lead to digital load-shedding. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive for Corporate Affairs at MTN SA, Jacqui O'Sullivan and ICASA spokesperson, Paseka Maleka.
The African National Congress has withdrawn its court application to the electoral court. This came just hours after it filed papers to the court. The ANC says the withdrawal of the application depends on the conclusion of the Constitutional Court application. The IEC approached the court to ask it to postpone the elections from October to February next year. Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance federal council, Helen Zille claims there is more to the ruling party's application withdrawal and ANC spokesperson, Pule Mabe gives reasons as to the withdrawal...
KwaZulu-Natal police say they are investigating five more cases of murder after five more people have been shot and killed at uMlazi Township south of Durban - making it a total of eleven people killed in a space of three days in this township. On Saturday six people were shot and killed at Zamani informal settlement in U-section. Last night five people were shot and killed and three seriously injured at W section. KZN police spokesperson Brigadier Jay Naicker...
Former managing director of the Life Esidimeni group, Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa is back on the stand at the inquest into the tragic deaths of 144 mental health patients. The inquest resumed this morning in the High Court in Pretoria following a four-week break. At least 144 patients died between March and December 2016 after they were moved by the Gauteng health government to various ill-equipped NGOs. Life Esidimeni charged the department at least 250-million-rand per annum for just over 2-thousand patients. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Phumzile Mlangeni.
Three suspects are appearing in court following the murder of a 66 year old woman. The body of Iris Portgieter was found dumped on an open field outside Riverside township near Dewetsdorp in the Free State on Wednesday. Police spokesperson - Motantsi Makhele says 72 hour activation plan was executed and since then police continued with investigation following intelligence drive information from different sources. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Ishmael Modiba.
A 36-year old woman is expected to appear in the Germiston Magistrates court today on charges of inciting public violence related to last month's lootings in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Hawks' Crime Against the State unit arrested the the woman and a 35-year-old co-accused in Leondale in Johannesburg over the weekend. She is alleged to have been operating the Sphithiphithi Evaluator Twitter account. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Reporter, Pearl Magubane
The Vereeniging Magistrate's Court has granted bail of R40-000 to ANC regional organiser in Sedibeng, Themba Mnisi. Mnisi appeared in the Vereeniging Magistrate's Court last Monday, where the State argued in opposition of bail. He is alleged to have been involved in the incitement of violence in recent unrest which resulted in the deaths of 350 people across Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
The North West Legislature says that although Professor Job Mokgoro resigned as the Premier, he is yet to resign as a Member of the Legislature. The Office of the Speaker earlier confirmed receipt of the resignation letter of premier Job Mokgoro. Mokgoro was expected to have resigned as both the Premier and Member of the Provincial Legislature to give way to 67-year-old Bushy Maape. Jon Gericke spoke to Professor Andre Duvenage who is with the University of the North West...
The African National Congress has vowed to approach the Electoral Court to ask for the re-opening of the registration of election candidates for a day. The party says it couldn't register some of its candidates for the upcoming local elections due to problems beyond its control. All political parties had until Monday at 9pm to submit their candidates list to the IEC but the ANC says it encountered problems beyond its control with the IEC portal freezing and data already in the system being voided. Jon Gericke spoke to Independent Political Analyst, Theo Venter
Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula, has announced that the renewal grace period for learners' and drivers' licenses has been extended to the 31st of March 2022. This after several motorists - whose licenses expired between March and December last year - complained that they have been unable to making renewal bookings, with an August the 31st deadline looming.
Unemployment is at its highest since 2008. Statistics South Africa's quarterly labour force survey shows that unemployment increased to 34,4% in the second quarter of 2021, from 32.6% in the first quarter. The survey shows that the number of employed persons decreased by 54 000 in the second to 14,9 million. It further indicates that the number of unemployed persons increased by 584 000. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist at L H research Equity Partners, Ndumiso Radebe...
A 33-year old man is expected to appear the Nigel Magistrate's Court allegedly killing his nine-month pregnant girlfriend. It's believed the 27-year old Samantha Zungu was hit over the head with an iron poker by her ex-convict boyfriend in Duduza, on the East Rand. The suspect had allegedly been demanding a share of their two children's grant money. Update@Noon presenter, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Maageketla Mohlabe...
Gauteng Health MEC Dr Nomathemba Mokgethi has expressed shock at the death of senior finance officer in the Department, Babita Deokaran. Deokaran was shot outside her home in the south of Johannesburg yesterday, just moments after dropping her child off at school. The 53-year-old later died in hospital. Mokgethi has called on law enforcement to leave no stone un-turned in investigating the shooting. Deokaran was reportedly one of 300 witnesses in Special Investigating Unit probe into PPE purchase irregularities in the department. Sakina Kamwendo spoke tp SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago....
The community of Cata Village in Keiskammahoek in the Eastern Cape says it has been left reeling after an elderly woman was stabbed multiple times and left for dead last Wednesday. She later died as locals waited for authorities. Earlier in the week, two other elderly women were allegedly raped and attacked by intruders in their homes. This comes two months after a 91-year-old woman was killed after she and a 75-year-old friend were attacked in Tsomo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to member of the Cata Village community, Sizwe Ndlazulwana
The accused in the murder case of Nosicelo Mtebeni has abandoned his application for bail. The 25 year old will remain in custody. The accused briefly appeared in the East London Magistrate's court after his arrest for the gruesome murder of his alleged girlfriend, last week. Parts of her body were found in a suitcase in Quigney in East London, while the rest of her body was found in the house she shared with the accused. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Lubabalo Dada and Producer of Emasisweni, Dr Mamphuthi Khasu.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation has warned motorists that the deadline for the renewal of licences which expired between 26 March to 31 December 2020 is fast approaching. The national lockdown imposed on the country last year forced licensing centres to close, resulting in a backlog of expired licences. The Minister of Transport then announced an extension for all learner licences, driving licence cards, temporary driving licences and professional driving licences until the end of August this year. Elvis Preslin spoe to RTMC spokesperson, Simon Zwane
Low-cost airline Mango has now appointed Sipho Sono as the business rescue practitioner and said it would soon be back in the air. The airline was finally placed into business rescue, with a high court judge backdating the process to 28 July, effectively immediately protecting it against claims from creditors. The unions remain opposed to the move, the board is calling for cooperation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SA Cabin Crew Association's Zazi Nsibanyoni-Mugambi,
The final results of Zambia's presidential election are in and opposition leader, Hakainde Hichileme has emerged victorious after scoring over 2-point-3-million votes. Incumbent, President Edgar Lungu - who has trailed since the results started trickling out - secured nearly one-and-half-million votes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke with Zambian journalist, Newton Sibanda
Department of Public Enterprises director-general, Kgathatso Tlhakudi says eight Eskom employees have been suspended following an explosion at the newly completed Medupi Power station. Tlhakudi is briefing the committee on a range of governance and financial challenges relating to state-owned companies. This comes as worker Union NUMSA has cautioned ESKOM to stop what it called, pre-empting the outcome of an investigation on what led to the explosion in Lephalale in Limpopo. Update@Noon presenter, Sakina Kamwendo spoke with SABC News reporter, Lulama Matya.
The South Durban Community Environmental Alliance says the extent of pollution along the Umhlanga River is still unkown. The public is warned not to fish or collect any dead fish along the beaches north of the Umgeni River following a chemical spill in KwaZulu-Natal. The United Phosphorus Limited (UPL) chemical plant was set alight on 12 July during the public violence. The alliance is demanding the chemical company to reveal what chemicals spilled into the nearby Ohlanga River and the Umhlanga Lagoon. The Alliance's Coordinator Desmond D'Sa tells Sakina Kamwendo that government has failed to send mobile clinics to the area to help people suffering from respiratory and other ailments.
Eskom has announced that Unit 4 at the Medupi powerstation in Lephalale, Limpopo exploded last night. The power utility says no injuries have been reported and all employees at the plant have been accounted for, however emergency services have attended to seven employees for shock. In a statement, Eskom says Unit 4 has been on a short term outage when the incident occurred and all the work on the unit has been suspended with immediate effect. The incident has also caused Unit 5 to trip, and work to return the unit to service is underway. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha...
Zimbabwean police say they are investigating the circumstances arround the death of a 14-year-old girl who lost her life while giving birth at a church shrine in Marange, east of the country. Activists have accused government of turning a blind eye to the alleged child abuse practiced in the country's Apostolic Church, which the late Memory Machaya belonged to. It is alleged church leaders forced Memory to give birth in the shrine last month, despite having complications during her pregnancy. Her family was reportedly denied access to the girl during the birth and were not allowed at her burial. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Secretary General of Young Women Christian Association, Muchanyara Cynthia Mukamuri....
Motorists are urged to renew their licences before the grace period deadline at the end of August.The national lock down imposed on the country last year forced licencing centres to close, resulting in a backlog of expired licences. All learner licences, driving licence cards, temporary driving licences and professional driving licences that expired between 26 March 2020 and 31 December 2020 were made valid for a grace period ending 31 August 2021. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage
The latest cabinet reshuffle by President Cyril Ramaphosa has been met with mixed reactions. On Thursday night, Ramaphosa announced, among other changes, that he had appointed the chair of the Development Bank of South Africa, Enoch Godongwana, as the new finance minister and collapsed the State Security department into the Presidency. Deputy Health Minister, Joe Phaahla has been promoted to lead the health ministry, following the resignation of Zweli Mkhize amid corruption allegations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Governance and Risk Specialist, Sandile Swana.
Members of Section 27, Equal Education and Michael Komape's father, James Komape, have gathered outside the High Court in Polokwane. This as proceedings get under way after Section 27 brought the case against the Basic Education Department. The case relates to the department's plan to eradicate pit latrines at schools. Equal Education and Section 27 are challenging the department's plan to completely eradicate pit toilets by 2030. In 2018, the court ruled in favour of the Komape family after Michael died in a pit toilet at school in 2014. The court also provided a structural order compelling the department to improve sanitation at schools. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Katlego Nyoni.
The EFF is currently marching to Phoenix police station north of Durban. Security has been beefed up on the route around the Ghandi Luthuli Park where the march is expected to start. The march is said to be aimed at addressing the racial attacks that led to the death of 36 people in the area at the time of the unrest. KZN EFF chairperson Vusi Khoza says they are puzzled by the large number of police deployed to monitor their march. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe
The Good Party says it has approached the Hawks with 26 names and evidence of people who are alleged instigators of the recent violence seen in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The civil unrest left 330 dead and thousands of businesses looted or destroyed in both province. The party's secretary-general, Brett Herron tells Sakina Kamwendo that the evidence was gathered from three WhatsApp groups which were central to organising the unrest.
The Electoral Commission has reiterated that it will file an application this afternoon for the Constitutional Court to allow the local government elections to be held by the end of February 2022. The polls were scheduled for the 27th of October - however, the Moseneke Inquiry has recommended that the date be postponed to February next year due to the Covid19 pandemic. IEC Chairperson Glen Mashinini says the date will remain until and if the Constitutional Court rules otherwise. Sakina Kamwenco also spokes to Executive Chairperson of the Institute of Election Management Services in Africa, Terry Tselane..
Many unemployed South Africans have reached out to the Update@Noon team for clarity on the latest round of government's R350 social relief grant which is expected resume soon. Government had introduced the grant for all unemployed citizens last year in an effort to fight the economic impact of Covid-19. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Social Development minister, Lindiwe Zulu...
Many schools report that they are unable to comply, as classes are overcrowded. Primay school learners have returned to full-time attendance, but the major condition to returning to school which is the ability to social distance seems to a huge challenge for many schools. As many as 500 township schools could not open yesterday because they could not comply. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Director of The National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa) Basil Manuel
The matter involving Trade unions at Mango has been adjourned to Friday by the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg for heads of arguments to be heard. This after unions fight for the low-cost airline company to be placed under business rescue. The Mango Pilots' Association says it is optimistic that the court will rule in favour of the airline's workers. Much of the South African aviation industry's current volatility has to do with the coronavirus lockdown restrictions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to The Mango Pilots' Association, chairperson Captain Jordan Butler.
The South African Association of Freight Forwarders says disruptions to the country's supply chains over recent weeks has resulted in the loss of trust, reputation damage, decreasing investor confidence, companies choosing to avoid using South Africa's ports. SAAFF says a recent cyber-attack on Transnet resulted in a virtual standstill for 12 days and has affected the jobs of many. This comes after Transnet announced that it has lifted the force majeur at its container terminals at ports in Cape Town, Durban, Ngqura and Gqaberha following last month's cyber-attack. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Western Cape SAAFF director, Mike Walwyn
Basic Education Department says it will not force educators to be vaccinated against their will. This comes as the department announces the start of the third school term with all primary school learners allowed back to class today. But in some schools there are capacity challenges. According to the Basic Education all provinces have reported that they will not be able to accommodate primary school learners at the same time due to difficulty in adhering to social distancing. This morning Basic Education officials visited the Kabelo primary school in Katlehong east of Johannesburg where they monitored the first day of the full-time return of primary school learners. Five-hundred-and-17-thousand educators out of 582-thousand have received their jabs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke with the minister who maintains that vaccinations are voluntary
Eskom says the Medupi power plant project has finally been completed. This 14 years after construction started on the Medupi power plant. Eskom says the last unit at Medupi has achieved commercial operation, marking the completion of the project. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom's Spokesperson Sikonathi Manthantsha..
A WhatsApp group has emerged as the focal point for the eight days of riots and looting that claimed more than 300 lives and ripped R50bn out of a struggling economy.Two prominent suspended ANC members are part of the main WhatsApp group formed to plan protests when former president Jacob Zuma was jailed. We spoke to Ferial Haffajee - associate editor of the Daily Maverick.
Street trade should not be regulated. This according to Free Market Foundation (FMF) Founder and President, Leon Louw, in his submission to the City of Johannesburg (COJ) on its latest Draft Informal Trading Policy. The Submission proposes a Public Space Management Bylaw. The Free Market Foundation has offered to assist COJ with this adaptation. We spoke to FMF president, Leon Louw.
Leader of the DA in Mpumalanga, Jane Sithole says they are concerned about the continuing culture of pouring millions into projects that never come to fruition. She says the DA in the province is concerned about the construction of the Mpumalanga Parliamentary Village which began in November 2017 and had an estimated completion date of April 2020.The project has been plagued by delays and is not completed as yet. Its construction budget is also said to have ballooned from 300 million to 550 million. We spoke to Jane Sithole, leader of the DA in Mpumalanga and Dave Awogu, Chief Director: Building Infrastructure and Maintenance @ the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport.
The Apartheid-era Victims Family Group (AVFG) has welcomed a decision by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Directorate for Priority Crimes to collaborate efforts in the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes. This follows the recent decision by the Supreme Court of Appeal to refuse former apartheid policeman, Joao Rodrigues' application for a stay of prosecution for his role in the murder of anti-apartheid activist, Ahmed Timol. This means Rodrigues will finally stand trial for Timol's murder, nearly 50 years since it happened. The families have, however, expressed disappointment that it took the SCA's decision for the law enforcement agencies to finally act….Let's play you an interview I had yesterday on our sister show Morning Live where I spoke to Imtiaz Cajee - nephew to former anti-apartheid activist, Ahmed Timol. We spoke to national spokesperson of the NPA, Sipho Ngwema.
While the health ministry pushes for vaccination of the elderly, those behind bars are not left behind. The department of correctional services (DCS) says its vaccination processes for prisoners who are sixty and above is going according to plan with more than 500 prisoners vaccinated to date. The prisoners are receiving their jabs alongside prison healthcare workers and guards. We spoke to Logan Maistry, Deputy Commissioner for Communications @ the Department of Correctional Services.
Despite not securing the environmental green light for its gas-to-power ships to operate in three of the country's major industrial ports, Karpowership South Africa says it remains fully committed to South African projects. The company says it strongly disagrees with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)'s decision not to approve its projects and will take appropriate recourse. We spoke to the spokesperson for Karpowership South Africa, Kay Sexwale.
The Basic Education Department says those who plan to disrupt the vaccine rollout which kicks off today, will face the full might of the law. Over the weekend, Minister Angie Motshekga announced that all employees of the department, across the country, including teachers, admin staff and cleaners will receive the Johnson and Johnson single-dose jab, over the next two weeks. Motshekga and Gauteng Education MEC, Panyaza Lesufi, earlier launched the programme at the Rabasotho Community Hall in Tembisa, in Johannesburg's East Rand...with the latest update; we are now joined on the line by our reporters in different provinces
The financial state of municipalities in South Africa has continued to deteriorate as a lack of accountability and poor governance continues to dog the country at a local government level. Presenting to parliament's standing committee on public accounts yesterday, auditor-general Tsakani Maluleke said that the country was effectively facing two main issues: there is not much money going around and yet the right hands are not at the till. We spoke to Chairman of the standing committee on the Auditor-General, Sakhumzi Somyo & Zukiswa Kota, head of monitoring and advocacy @ the Public Service Accountability Monitor (PSAM)
The family of Leigh Matthews, who was killed in July 2004 held a press conference in Johannesburg earlier today after allegations that her killer; Donovan Moodley may be eligible for parole consideration. The family says it was called by Correctional Services for mediation ahead of a parole hearing with a possibility of an early release for Donovan Moodley. The Department of Correctional Services says there will be no parole hearing today to determine if Leigh Matthews' murderer can be released. We spoke to Leigh Mathews' father Rob Mathews…
Gift of the Givers says it's overwhelmed with calls for oxygen concertrators in Gauteng hospitals. It says Covid-19 infections are ripping through the population at an unprecedented rate. The NGO says it is inundated with calls of desperation from medical professionals, families and patients for oxygen concentrators, oxygen cylinders and oxygen, or bed availability at hospitals. Both private and public hospitals are filled to capacity.We spoke to the Founder of Gif of the Givers Foundation, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman.
The Minister of Mineral Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has raised concern about the impact of illegal mining on communities. He says it is an attack on the country's economy and must be dealt with decisively. Mantashe was speaking during his visit to the China Africa Precious Metals (CAPM) mine in Orkney in the North West. This follows the discovery of 20 bodies believed to be those of illegal miners. The badly burned and decomposed bodies were found in grain bags on the surface near the mine. ..we spoke to our reporter Mpho Lepedi and David van Wyk, Chief Researcher at Bench Marks Foundation.
The City of Joburg is facing a deepening power crisis, with electricity problems leading to more blackouts that take days to repair. The problems extend beyond just outages, with delayed maintenance, tampering and illegal connections now putting lives at risk. Newlyweds Zaheer Sarang and Nabeela Khanwere buried in a joint funeral on Monday after being electrocuted in their Crosby, Johannesburg, over the weekend. The couple's family says last week they experienced slight shocks when they used the taps and reported the problem to City Power several times. We spoke to City Power's spokesperson Isaac Mangena..
The Gauteng government wants stricter restrictions imposed on the province to curb the rising number of Covid-19 cases. Some hospitals have had to divert patients to other facilities due to constrained bed capacity. One Gauteng public hospital say it may have to re-purpose more wards for Covid-19 patients to accommodate the rising number of admissions. Nurses are also feeling the pressure due to the increased workload. Tshepo Phagane visited Kalafong hospital in Pretoria and filed this report...
The CCMA has issued Public Servants Association (PSA) with non-resolution certificates. This means the union could embark on a protected strike after giving an employer 48-hours notice. The PSA, representing more than 235 000 public-sector employees, says despite having declared a dispute, it had made every effort to engage with Government as the employer during the conciliation process regarding the salary proposal tabled to other unions. We spoke to Astrid Al-Anani , Manager Labour Relations: Collective Bargaining at Public Servants Association…
The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (Saapa) says the introduction of stronger alcohol laws in South Africa will help reduce crime in South Africa, especially the maltreatment of children. The lobby group is calling for the passing of the Liquor Amendment Bill, which it says will help change the country's drinking culture. We spoke to Maurice Smithers, director for The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (Saapa) and got some reaction from Lucky Ntimane, convener of the liquor traders council.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that private investors and companies will be allowed to generate (and sell) up to 100 MW in electricity. The move, which includes the ability to sell excess capacity into the grid, is expected to take pressure off state-owned electricity utility Eskom, However not immediately. Energy experts have weighed in on the president's move to allow up to 100MW of private power production. We spoke to Energy Economist Lungile Mashele…
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gorhdan has announced Takatso Consortium as the new strategic equity partner for SAA. Takatso will own 51% of the restructured airline while government will hold a 49% stake into the new SAA. Government says it will not be putting any money into the new consortium. Gordhan says Takatso will invest just over 3 billion rand into the new airline. Gordhan says after the conclusion of all business rescue process the purchase agreement will be signed with Takatso consortium. We spoke to Adv. Melanchton Makobe, Acting Director General at the Department of Public Entreprises & Independent Analyst Khaya Sithole.
Soweto residents protest outside Eskom's Megawatt Park. Residents complain of electricity problems and poor service delivery by the power utility. They say they have been without electricity for a about year now. We spoke to our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe, some of the protesting residents and energy expert,Ted Blom.
The Free Basotho Movement wants South Africa- Lesotho borders to be removed. The movement is calling for an election referendum to allow citizens to vote on the removal of the borders separating Lesotho and South Africa. The Free Basotho Movement says it has written to SADC to intervene. We spoke to the President of the Free Basotho Movement DR Letsema Morolong and got more context from Senior Research Fellow at research and policy advocacy think tank - Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko.
South Africa is DITCHING the 'herd immunity Covid 19 vaccination plan, because herd immunity is no longer practical in the country. South Africa was aiming to immunise 41-million people by the end of this year in order to reach herd immunity. Health experts working for Bhekisisa confirmed that the government is now rethinking its plan and moving towards a containment strategy to reduce strain on the country's health system. We spoke to Bhekisisa's Senior Health Reporter, Aisha Abdool Karim.
Further investigations into the Department of Health's irregular Digital Vibes contract have revealed that minister Zweli Mkhize's son scored a Land Cruiser bakkie from the Digital Vibes. Previous investigations found that the minister's son also had money paid to his company, while the maintenance work on the minister's house was also paid for by the group. Digital Vibes is owned by Mkhize's long-serving personal spokesperson Tahera Mather and former personal assistant Naadira Mitha. For more on this we are joined on the line by Political Analyst- Sanusha Naidu... We reached out to Tareha Mather of Digital Vibes and offered her an interview to chat to us about the allegations levelled against her company- She says she is not feeling well and will not be able to do the interview.
Independent business community Sakeliga has instituted court proceedings to reverse municipal decline throughout South Africa, proposing a new form of municipal administration, with independent control over electricity and other service charges. In court papers served, Sakeliga has asked a judge to appoint a special master to handle payments for water, electricity and repairs in two of the failing municipalities in the North West province. It is asking a judge to ring-fence municipal rates in two of the North West province's struggling municipalities and appoint a special master to make payments to Eskom and for water and repair services before giving "what is left" to the municipality. We spoke to Piet le Roux, CEO of Sakeliga.
Housing activist organisation Ndifuna Ukwazi has condemned the City of Cape Town for attempting to compile complaints from the public against homeless people. A document that recently surfaced on social platforms, urges members of the public in the City of Cape Town to "add their voice" about how homeless people ("street people" as referred to in their document) impact them, and to send these to JP Smith, Mayco Member for Safety and Security...We spoke to Jonty Cogger, an attorney with Housing Activist organisation, Ndifuna Ukwazi, they are legally representing some homeless people in court. We also spoke to P Smith, Mayco Member for Safety and Security, in the City of Cape Town.
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) is currently being briefed by the National Treasury and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) on allegations of maladministration, mismanagement and corruption. These were brought by the President of the United Democratic Movement, Bantu Holomisa. Last year. Scopa resolved to develop a framework that would guide investigations into allegations of corruption at DBSA. Our Reporter Zalene Merrington spoke to us...
In line with the approved the Self Sufficiency and Sustainability Strategic Framework, Correctional Services is today launching a prison project at Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo. The vision is for the inmates to produce their own food for government to save money. Inmates will also gain practical skills and qualifications through the project. We spoke to our reporter Sagree Chetty.
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) says it has assessed the extent of vandalism of its infrastructure across the country and has instituted a recovery plan, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has joined PRASA Management in visiting some of the damaged stations in and around Johannesburg and to provide details of the recovery plan. We also spoke to Prof. Jackie Walters, Director for the Institute for Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS) Africa @ the University of Johannesburg
The ANC has retained 27 of the 40 wards it contested in yesterday's by-elections. The governing party has also lost one ward and won three new wards. The DA which contested ten wards, has retained six wards but lost four, while the Patriotic Alliance has won two new wards. The IFP has retained one ward and won another. The Better Residents Association in Mpumalanga has lost a ward. According to the IEC the average turnout of the by-elections was 31-point-94 per cent. We spoke to Wayne Sussman an elections analyst.
At least sixty seven Palestinian including children have been killed since Monday. Heavy Israeli air strike and Palestinian rocket fire have continued through the night. The Israeli military says it is targeting Gaza including intelligence buildings, a bank and the Hamas navy squad. Palestinian militants have launched ways of rockets towards Israeli cities. Suhair Zakkout is the Spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza and she gives us this update from Gaza
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign in Cape Town says it is formulating a Parliamentary Bill to force the South African government to implement sanctions against Israel. This as conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate.Meanwhile, the Pro-Palestine protest is continuing in Cape Town against the continued clashes in the Middle East. The Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) is leading the march with various other organisations and some political parties to mark the end of Ramadaan. We spoke to our reporter Vanessa Poonah and Dr Sikwani Ncube Senior Lecturer at the Department of Public Law at the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
The Modjadji Royal Council in Limpopo has veered off from the long held history of matrilineal lineage by appointing a male leader. The Balobedu nation has not had a male monarch in 200 years. Balobedu are known to be led by Modjadji queens who are famous for rainmaking customs. The royal council has appointed the late Queen Makobo Modjadji's son, Lekukela, as the king of Balobedu people. It was anticipated that Masalanabo, currently aged 16, would be ascend the queenship when she reaches 18. We spoke to Advocate Ngoako Moropene of the Lembede Tambo Pitjie Chambers…
Meanwhile The Modjadji Royal Council says it has never stated that the late Queen Makobo Modjadji's sixth daughter, princess Masalanabo Modjadji, would be the next Rain Queen to rule over the Balobedu nation. The council announced that Masalanabo's brother, prince Lekukela, has been appointed as the next leader to ascend the throne. A regent has been on the throne since 2006, following Queen Makobo's death in 2005.
We also spoke to the Modjadji Royal Council’s spokesperons, Phetole Mampeule….
National police commissioner General Khehla Sitole received a tongue lashing from police minister Bheki Cele yesterday. In a letter demanding a retraction of appointments of senior managers by Sitole, Cele was critical of the commissioner for effectively defying him and going over his head. The commissioner was given until 4pm yesterday to retract the appointments.We spoke to Head of Justice and Violence Prevention @ The Institute for Security Studies, Gareth Newham.
It has emerged in the Auditor General's findings on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme's (NSFAS) annual report that the entity allegedly incurred R50.1 billion in irregular expenditure and that "ghost students" had allegedly received funding. According to the NSFAS 2019/20 annual report there were some 440-thousand "irregular" student records that had been picked up and an undisclosed number of "ghost students" had been funded. We spoke to NSFAS Spokesperson, Kagisho Mamabolo
The Head of ANC Presidency, Sibongile Besani, says the suspension of the ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule is a decision of the party's national executive committee (NEC) to fight corruption and also unite it. On the other hand suspended Magashule wrote a letter to party President Cyril Ramaphosa, suspending him. In a letter circulating on social media last night, Magashule says he used powers vested in him to subsequently suspend the president. We spoke to Political Analyst, Sanusha Naidu.
DNG Power, a South African company to develop liquefied natural gas facilities is objecting to its disqualification in South Africa's emergency power tender. It's alleging wrongdoing, following government decision to award to eight companies to alleviate power shortages. DNG Power has taken legal action to have the government's award of emergency power generation contracts halted….We spoke to Aldworth Mbalati, the founder and chief executive of DNG Power Holdings.
Following SABC's expose' of families of rape survivors complaining that backlogs in the processing of DNA evidence samples are preventing justice from taking its course, the police have now come forth to respond. South African Police Service’s spokesperson, Brigadier Vish Naidoo says there is light at the end of the tunnel regarding DNA backlogs
It's an issue that cannot be taken lightly. Bullying and prejudice have damaging effects on victims and their families. An adult who has suffered humiliation has made an impassioned plea to authorities to urgently deal with the scourge. Primary school teacher Mpho Mawela is, what she calls herself, a plus-size mother. The 32-year was bullied as a child, and she's still being body-shamed. Our repoerter Molebogeng Gulwako has more …
Families of rape survivors say backlogs in the processing of DNA evidence samples are preventing justice from taking its course. Police management told Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police recently that backlogs at the National Forensic Science Laboratory stood at over 173-thousand cases. Experts say this poses a serious challenge for the administration of justice. Our reporter Tshepo Phagane filed this report.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) says it has noted an upsurge in Covid-19 cases in the Northern Cape, North West and Free State Provinces. Senior Epidemiologist at the NICD, Dr Harry Moultrie says NICD is working with the respective provinces to ascertain whether the rise in cases can be attributed to cluster outbreaks.
The National Development Plan 2030 emphasizes that the use of digital communications has the ability to change society and is a powerful means of fostering social inclusion. But, in recent times - it is in this particular space that government seems to experience challenges. Some of these include questionable procurement of ICT services by government departments to long queues at government departments, like the Home Affairs - caused at most by failing and crashing computer systems. We spoke to Luvuyo Keyise, Executive Caretaker for the State Information Technology Agency, SITA.
South Africa has struck a R218 billion energy deal with Turkish company Karpowership to provide South Africa with power from Ships. The three floating power stations - which use Liquefied Natural Gas to produce electricity - are expected to dock at Saldanha, Richards Bay and Gqeberha towards the second half of next year. The Dept. of Mineral Resources and Energy has however acknowledged that Karpowership, which will supply 450 megawatts of electricity from gas, does not meet the local content requirement for the ships it will use. Deputy Director General Jacob Mbele told parliament that the final agreements are yet to be signed .
Meanwhile, Energy Analyst Clyde Mallinson says the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (RMIPPPP) is expensive and should be replaced by a materially larger, cost-effective, procurement programme based primarily on renewables and storage, rather than power ships. Mallinson has written to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the Independent Power Producer (IPP) Office to highlight these expensive shortcomings of the RMIPPPP.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says it has encountered payment delays for March and April COVID-19 grant. SASSA says this due to the transition in government financial years. The end of March is the end of the financial year for government and various administrative tasks are required before any payments which relate to the previous financial year can be made. We spoke to Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA Spokesperson.
Power utility Eskom is urgently seeking new providers of technical support after Oracle Corp.'s South African unit withdrew its services over a payment dispute. The state power utility has been in a disagreement with Oracle, which initially claimed Eskom underpaid it by about R7.3 billion, before reducing the amount to R380 million. Eskom is only prepared to pay R166 million. Eskom earlier this month lost a court bid to compel Oracle to continue providing services until April 2022. We spoke to Eskom's spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha.
Former VBS Mutual Bank retail account holders have until July 8 to collect up to R100,000 at any Nedbank branch. 8TH July 2021 is the date when the agreement between the liquidator, the Prudential Authority and Nedbank is due to end. In terms of the agreement which was concluded in 2018, depositors were guaranteed up to R100 000 per depositor and had three years to collect their money. Retail depositors include individuals, burial societies, stokvels and saving clubs’ deposits in VBS. The guarantee does not cover municipal or corporate deposits. We spoke to Anoosh Rooplal, VBS Mutual Bank liquidator.
The Communications Worker's Union (CWU) says issues facing the South African Post Office (SAPO) include Structural Organisation, Industry regulation and Governance. The union also says that it is very strange top executives at SAPO do not last very long in their positions. Just recently (in January this year) the union says it was shocked and disturbed by the resignation of the Post Office's CFO just three months into the job. Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts is also concerned by the report of the Auditor General on the South African Post Office. SAPO obtained a disclaimer of audit opinion and Auditor General Tsakani Maluleke which found that SAPO is commercially insolvent. The group incurred irregular expenditure of over 200 million rand as well as fruitless and wasteful expenditure exceeding 26 million rand. We spoke to CWU's Aubrey Tshabalala and SAPO CEO, Nomkhitha Mona
A Soweto family is still traumatized after the horrific death of their mother, Jostina Sangweni who had dementia. She was attacked and burnt by community members on Friday while she was apparently on her way to consult with her spiritual healer. A video of the attack in which the voices of men insulting her can be heard, went viral on social media over the weekend. The family says she was attacked because she was wearing a traditional healer's attire and the community believed she was a witch. We spoke to Brigadier Mathapelo Peters, the Gauteng SAPS Spokesperson.
Several families in KwaZulu-Natal say their lives are in limbo due to a backlog at the forensic laboratory of the South African Police Services. They say they have been unable to bury their loved ones because of the delays. The Ngcobo family in Hammersdale outside Durban has been waiting for the positive identification of a burnt body that was found last year. The family believes the body belongs to a relative, Nomvuselelo Ngcobo. Yesterday we spoke the deceased's sister, Nkosingphile who says they are still waiting for DNA results. We today we speak to SAPS National Police Spokesperson, Brenda Muridili
A forensic investigation by legal firm Bowman has found that an oil blending and storage company, Econ Oil & Energy allegedly secured deals to supply Eskom with fuel oil worth more than R15 billion at inflated prices by paying inducements, including donations to the ANC. Bloomberg reports that according to the forensic report, Econ Oil & Energy allegedly won the contracts with the help of Thandi Marah, then senior manager of business enablement at Eskom, who allegedly interfered in the tender processes. We spoke to Eskom's spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha.
Several families in KwaZulu-Natal say their lives are in limbo due to a backlog at the forensic laboratory of the South African Police Services. They say they have been unable to bury their loved ones because of the delays. The Ngcobo family in Hammersdale outside Durban has been waiting for the positive identification of a burnt body that was found last year. The family believes the body belongs to a relative, Nomvuselelo Ngcobo. The deceased's sister, Nkosingphile says they are still waiting for DNA results ...
Government Food Banks aim to provide for the immediate and basic needs of the most vulnerable in our society and the indigent. They rely on donors in order to fulfill their mandate. Some of the donors who give generously include the farmers, market agents, exporters and retailers. The market's own food technicians determine which of the donated food is fit for human consumption. We spoke to our reporter Nozintombi Miya.
Eskom's technical services provider Oracle, is threatening to withdraw their services to Eskom due to non-payment. Eskom approached the high court to compel Oracle to continue providing the services for the duration of the agreement until April 2022, however its bid failed in court...Eskom has warned that South Africa can be plunged into total darkness if the company is not stopped from withdrawing its services. Oracle technical services are crucial to its operations. We spoke to Eskom's spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha
South African artists want to know what happened to the millions of rands that were meant to help them when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. They have staged a sit-in at the National Arts Council offices. They've vowed to continue occupying the offices of the arts council until they are paid out monies promised to them. The impasse is over a 300 million rand presidential employment stimulus programme, meant to be disbursed via the National Arts Council and the National Film and Video Foundation. It's aimed at assisting people in the sector, suffering losses due to Covid-19. We spoke to Tshepo Mashiane- Spokesperson for the National Arts Council.
Home Affairs Department will this weekend be doing a follow-up to a pilot they started last weekend where they are availed officials at all health facilities with maternity wards. This is in order to fast track registration of new-born babies at medical facilities where the child is born. A family has up to 30 days to register a birth. Registration of birth after 30 days is considered to be a late registration and additional requirements apply. We spoke to the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Mr. Njabulo Nzuza.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) have called for an investigation into some 40-thousand public service employees who applied for the SASSA SRD grant since February. This was revealed by the minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu, in a written response to a parliamentary question posed by the Democratic Alliance (DA). We spoke to DA shadow deputy minister of social development, Dr Mimmy Gondwe.
An independent review panel in the United States has raised concerns around the information released by AstraZeneca yesterday showing its COVID-19 vaccine was 79 percent effective in preventing symptomatic illness. A statement released in the early hours of Tuesday by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases -- or NIAID -- pointed to concern expressed by an independent panel of experts that AstraZeneca may have included outdated information from a trial conducted in the US, Chile and Peru. The NIAID has now urged AstraZeneca to work with the Data and Safety Monitoring Board to review the efficacy data and ensure the most accurate, up-to date efficacy data is made public as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, Anxiety is rising again over concern of an impending third wave of Covid-19 infections and the slowness of the vaccination rollout plan. Thus far, less than 200-thousand of the 1,2-million healthcare workers in the country have received their jabs. We spoke to senior health reporter at Bhekisisa, Aisha Abdool Karim.
The Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has described as 'completely unacceptable' the conduct of a teacher who was seen forcibly running a comb through a learner's hair, in a video that has gone viral on social media. In the video the teacher has other learners lined up to get their hair combed. The incident has drawn condemnation and has reignited conversation on socially acceptable conditions of black hair.We spoke to Gauteng Education MEC, Panyaza Lesufi.
Wrestled to the ground, handcuffed, and allegedly shot in the back. This is the disturbing detail of yet another murder, allegedly at the hands of police. 22-year-old Musa Magasela was shot and killed in an apparent case of mistaken identity in Olifantsfontein's Clayville East on Thursday. It's believed police mistook him for a hijacker. But there are conflicting reports. Our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe compiled this report for us.
Authorities at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) have a plan to allow for a smooth registration process. This follows threats of widespread protests at universities against financial exclusion. We spoke to UWC spokesperson, Gasant Abarder...
The 8th Amazulu King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu has passed away at the age of 72. The news was confirmed in a statement from the royal house this morning. King Zwelithini had been in hospital for weeks for more than a month for diabetes treatment. The royal house says his health took a turn for the worst and he passed away in the early hours of this morning. King Zwelithini made history as the longest serving monarch of the Zulu Kingdom - with a reign spanning over five decades. We spoke to our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe and Zulu Cultural Activist and historian, Siboniso KaMabaso.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) says they have gathered important evidence to proceed with its investigations into the circumstances that led to the death of 35-year-old Mthokizisi Ntumba. We spoke to IPID spokesperson Ndileka Cola.
Police Minister Bheki Cele says that he cannot explain what happened at Wits University yesterday. He says it doesn't make sense. Cele says somebody just went crazy. Cele says this mater must be resolved speedily, while fully supporting the family. 35-year-old Mthokozisi Ntumba who was killed allegedly by the police yesterday during Wits University students' protest in Braamfontein. It's alleged that Ntumba had just visited a local clinic when police allegedly shot him dead. Two student journalists were also shot and wounded and have been admitted to the Milpark Hospital. Students are demanding that those with historical debt be allowed to register....
One person has died after police fired rubber bullets at Wits University's protesting students at the Braamfontein campus. Wits students are unhappy with debt of over 150-thousand have been prevented from registering for the new academic year. They also claim that many students who've been accepted to study at Wits are not given accommodation and are forced to sleep in libraries on campus. Wits management says that they've made 20-million rand available to help students experiencing financial hardships. We spoke to our reporter Tshepo Phagane…
In a notice issued to South African motorists via its website, the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) says that new licence discs can be withheld from vehicle owners and drivers until they settle their e-toll bill. The notice states that road users will be able to renew their licences, but the disc itself will be withheld until the outstanding toll-related infringements have been settled. We spoke to CEO of OUTA (Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse), Wayne Duvenage.
Today is the eighth day of the sit by various SA artists at the offices of the National Arts Council in Newtown, Johannesburg. At the heart of the matter is the funding agency's alleged inability or unwillingness to avail relief funds to artists, and to answer questions about how the funds were disbursed, specifically how much of the R300 million has been disbursed so far. The artists say that this is a legitimate fight against the corruption and unfairness that has been going on at the NAC for years; more specifically now with the R300 million presidential stimulus for artists.We spoke to Acting Chairperson of the National Arts Council, Princess Celenhle Dlamini and Opera Singer, Sibongile Mngoma.
Various artists have staged a sit-in at the offices of the National Arts Council in Newtown, Johannesburg. At the heart of the matter is the funding agency's alleged inability or unwillingness to avail relief funds to artists. About twelve of the artists have been sleeping in the building for a few days now. The sit-in was initiated by opera singer Sibongile Mngoma. The artists say that this is a legitimate fight against the corruption and unfairness that has been going on in government institutions such as the NAC. The new council appointed by the minister has proven to be a monumental disaster. We spoke to opera singer Sibongile Mngoma...
The case against five men accused of the murder of Senzo Meyiwa will go on trial in the Palm Ridge regional court in October. The case has been set down from the the 25th of October to the 12 of November. The five appeared in the Boksburg magistrates court in Ekurhuleni this morning. The former Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper was shot dead at the home of his girlfriend Kelly Khumalo in Voslroorus in 2014. The five face charges of face charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.We spoke to Advocate Gerrie Nel,Head of Afriforum's Private Prosecution Unit, as he is representing the Meyiwa family
Journalist and broadcaster and analyst Karima Brown has died. Brown succumbed to COVID-19 early this morning. Brown had been admitted to hospital last month where she was receiving treatment for the corona virus. Brown hosted a number of broadcasting shows, most recently The Fix on eNCA, on Sundays. She was a former 702 talk show host aswell as CNBC Africa. Brown was also a political commentator. We spoke to John Perlman, Brown's friend and long time broadcasting colleague
A 60 year old pensioner who alleges to be raped by her own son has now been taken to a place of safety. She says her son has raped her on several occasions at a shack where they both stayed. Irate community members are expected to help her open a case at a nearby police station. They're also appealing for her to be moved in an old age for her safety as she has indicated that her son has threatened her. We spoke to our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe…
The Special Investigating Unit has launched as investigation into a tender which the national Department of Health awarded to a small company that is allegedly linked to close associates of Health Minister Zweli Mkhize. The department appointed Digital Vibes, a small KwaZulu-Natal- based communications company, in late 2019 through a contentious closed tender to provide communications services for the government's National Health Insurance (NHI) roll-out. The scope of work was extended in March 2020 to include communications services for Covid-19. To date, the firm obtained orders from the department for Covid-19 projects valued at more than R82-million. We spoke to investigative Journalist at the Daily Maverick, Pieter-Louis Myburgh, who broke the story.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) through a circular notice sent to university registrars on 12 February, announced that financial aid for certain university qualifications in teaching and nursing will no longer be available for first-year students. A final list of funded qualifications is still being devised in consultation with the Department of Higher Education and Training. We spoke to Ishmael Mnisi, spokesperson for the Department of Higher Education.
The CRL Rights Commission is currently holding investigative hearings into alleged abuse at the Universal Church. Some of the alleged violations include, forced male sterilization, denial of rights to attend family funerals, young people forced to leave school and women pressured to commit abortions. A number of the victims are presenting their testimonies at the investigative hearings.We spoke to our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe.
Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane, has announced that the former superintendent general of the provincial Health Department, Dr Thobile Mbengashe, will face disciplinary action - following the SIU's findings relating to last year's procurement of ambulance scooters intended to assist Covid19 patients. Speaking during a media briefing in Bisho, Mabuyane also announced that Health MEC Sindiswa Gomba has been relieved of her duties - after she was charged with corruption and fraud linked to the Nelson Mandela Funeral scandal. The alleged fraud amounts to 10-million rand that was siphoned from the Buffalo City Municipality, by flouting tender processes during the Mandela funeral in 2013. Mabuyane says Gomba will remain a member of the provincial legislature.
Residents in Breipaal, Douglas in the Northern Cape are living in fear and are under victimization following forced removals in the area. Some have been staying in Breipaal for over 20 years and say they are being kicked out like dogs from their places by those in power who are involved in dodgy dealings.We spoke to one of the Residents there and got reaction from Mr Martin Fillis, the Municipal Manager of Siyancuma Local Municipality in the Northen Cape.
The Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises, is outraged and dismayed by the fruitless and wasteful expenditure by Eskom, which was incurred in the building of accommodation for Eskom employees at Kusile power station. Power Utility Eskom has allegedly spent R840 million on a housing project for its Kusile Power Station staff, But the project of 336 units has been abandoned and still remains unfinished. The state-owned entity has allegedly spent more than R1-billion to date on renting accommodation for the same employees it had planned to house in the 336 units in the Wilge Residential Development project. In July 2012, Eskom entered into a contract with the Liviero Group to construct the Wilge flats. The group has since gone under voluntary business rescue, and one of its companies has been liquidated. The indebted Eskom has been struggling to keep the lights on over the past few years. We spoke to Eskom's Spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha...
M5 Medigroup, a traditional healer's company, alleges it has found a remedy that treats the deadly Covid-19 virus. The results from the concoction, a mixture of various herbs, produced by M5 Medigroup, have shown a remarkable recovery time of a day or two, the maximum being three. We spoke to Director of M5 Medigroup, Mr Mohale Mohale.
North West Premier, Job Mokgoro, insists that he has not yet receive a letter of suspension from the ANC's Interim Provincial Committee ( IPC). The IPC says Mokgoro and four other members of the provincial legislature, colluded with opposition parties during the election of a new Chair of Chairs in the legislature. We spoke to political analyst, Prof. Andre Duvenhage.
SAfm Update At Noon is in possession of disturbing correspondence from inside one of South Africa's prisons; Mangaung prison. The message comes from an inmate who fears for his life because of the escalating gang violence. We spoke to Singabakho Nxumalo, Spokesperson - Correctional Services Department
Shonisani Lethole's mother Patricia Lethole says she is happy that Justice for her son is near. She has thanked the Health Ombudsman for his work into this matter. This after Health Ombudsman, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba's investigations revealed medical negligence at the Tembisa Tertiary Hospital following the death of Lethole. He was admitted to hospital in July last year with breathing difficulties. Here is Patricia Lethole speaking at the virtual briefing. We also received a very sad and worrying voice note. We also spoke to Gauteng Health MEC Nomathemba Mokgethi..
Health Ombud, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba, has found evidence of medical negligence at the Tembisa Tertiary Hospital following the death of businessman Shonisani Lethole. Lethole was admitted to hospital in July last year with breathing difficulties and died before he received his results, which showed he had tested positive for Covid-19. He took to social media to reach out to Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize about the deplorable conditions at the hospital saying he was being starved and mistreated by staff.Professor Makgoba has just released a report on the investigations which reveal substandard care, medical negligence including Lethole not being fed for 100 hours and 54 minutes in total. Lets take a listen to what the Health Ombud, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba revealed earlier.....
Sakina Kamwendo pays tribute to Minister Jackson Mthembu. Mthembu died yesterday, due to Covid-19 related complications. He was admitted to hospital last week, following abdominal pains and tested positive Coronavirus. He was 62 years old.
Learners at Mugoidwa Secondary School in Vuwani have been attending lessons despite the start of the school calendar being postponed due to high cases of Corona virus in the country. We spoke to our reporter Pimani Baloyi to find out what exactly is going on there...
The Covid- 19 pandemic taking a heavy toll on front-line workers in Kwa Zulu Natal. The province is losing too many health workers in a short space of time due to Covid 19. At least 10 experienced medical practitioners are reported to have died in Kwa Zulu Natal in a single week. And least ten nurses are also reported to have died in one hospital in Pitermaritzburg also within a week. Also, yesterday a pilot and four health workers died when a Netcare helicopter crashed from Johannesburg in KZN. It was en-route to airlift a critically ill patient in KZN. We spoke to Denosa's Secretary in KZN Mandla Shabangu....
The Western Cape Social Development Committee today held a meeting to discuss the latest SASSA developments. This comes after more than 53 thousand disability grants have lapsed in the province.This caused thousands disability grant recipients to flock to the SASSA offices to re-apply as they were told that they need to apply in person. This caused major concerns regarding the long queues and covid 19 as social distancing was not observed. Various stakeholders including Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu and SASSA CEO Busisiwe Memela travelled to the Western Cape to remedy the situation.We spoke to Chairperson of the standing committee on social development in the Western Cape, Gillion Bosman...
The CRL Rights Commission today holds investigative hearings on alleged abuse at the Inter Heaven Fellowship Church. The hearings are as a result of allegations and abuses that are said to have taken place at the Church. The alleged victims are scheduled to give testimony over two days from today. We spoke to our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe who is currently attending the hearings…
A harmful algal bloom, better known as a red tide, has been building up at Elands Bay on the West Coast, about 220km north of Cape Town, and has resulted in several marine species washing up on the beach. The washed up marine species include, rock lobsters, octopus, white mussels and some fish species. Poisoning may either take place through the consumption of contaminated seafood or by toxic aerosols or water-bound compounds that cause respiratory and skin irritation. We spoke to Dr Grant Pitcher- specialist scientist on aquaculture research at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF).
Voting is under way in Uganda, in a tense presidential election pitting long-time President Yoweri Museveni against opposition frontrunner Bobi Wine. The run-up to today's vote has been plagued by the worst political violence in years, with more than 50 people killed by security forces amid crackdowns on opposition rallies, as well as the repeated intimidation and arrest of opposition figures. Internet access has been cut off, and there are fears of unrest as security forces try to stop supporters of leading opposition challenger Bobi Wine from monitoring polling stations. We spoke to Ugandan Journalist, Raymond Qatahar.
A Northern Cape mother is struggling to enroll her grade 3 daughter in a public school because she is currently in a private school. The Northern Cape Department of Education is allegedly refusing to accept former private school children to public schools this year. They say this school hopping. The department says they will only consider it if a child comes from another Province or parents relocated from one area to another for job opportunities. The department also says they have a limited number of available space for Grade R, and therefore a number of parents will have to make use of Early Childhood Development(ECD) Community Based Centres for the 2021 school academic. We spoke to Mabel Tsiolo and Geoffrey van der Merwe- Spokesperson for the department of Education in the Northen Cape...
Rights groups have warned that the Home Affairs Department's plans to photograph and fingerprint every baby born in South Africa for a digital register could lead to data leaks and identity theft without robust safeguards. The department's new draft policy aims to capture detailed biometrics - unique physical traits - of every child born in South Africa. It will link this data to parents' identity numbers, which are printed on all ID documents. We spoke Home Affairs minister, Aaron Motsoaledi.
South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) says it has now reviewed again, the available data from clinical studies. The authority says it encourages the submission of clinical trial applications designed to establish the safety and efficacy of ivermectin in the management of Covid-19 infections for both treatment and prophylaxis and commits to expediting their review….We spoke to Professor Helen Rees- Executive Director of the Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute and Chairman of the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority…
The Limpopo Health Department says 104 travellers have tested positive for the Coronavirus at the Beitbridge border post between South Africa and Zimbabwe in the past four days. This comes as scores of Zimbabweans including those who are considered to be economic migrants make their way back to South Africa following the festive season holidays. We spoke to Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba....
The United States Congress has today certified US President-elect Joe Biden's win. This after Pro-Trump supporters stormed Capitol Hill yesterday while Congress was in session confirming the November election votes.Biden, has appealed for an end to the violence on Capitol Hill - At least four people have died in the protest - with over 50 arrested. Biden says the chaos does not represent the entirety of the American population. We spoke to Professor John Stremlau- Honorary Professor of International Relations at Wits University...
Education departments are scrambling to find replacements for hundreds of matric exam markers who've pulled out at the last minute. The second wave of the corona virus pandemic has resulted in markers withdrawing because they're ill, have been exposed to a positive person or have cited fear of exposure. In Gauteng alone, close to 900 markers didn't show up and it's estimated that the figure for the Eastern Cape is around 265. Angela Bolowana filed this report. We also spoke to Mugwena Maluleke, General Secretary of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU)
A male suspect in his 40s has been arrested at the King Shaka International Airport in Durban after he was found in possession of Ivermectin drug earlier today. He was found in possession of over 2 100 tablets of Ivermectin. The Pakistan national is appearing in court today. South African Health Products Regulatory Authority communications manager Yuven Gounden says they have established that the drugs came from Pakistan. Gounden says the accused first said the tablets were for personal use and later said he was running a business. We spoke to our reporter Fanele Mhlongo who is at the King Shaka International Airport and was present during the drug bust....
The National Freedom Party has served Health Minister Zweli Mkhize and the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority, with a legal letter which threatens court action if they do not approve the use and manufacture of the drug Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID19. NFP member of Parliament, Ahmed Shaik-Emam, says they have given government by the close of business today ( Wednesday 6 Jan) to respond….
Thousands of Zimbabweans continue to queue at the Beitbridge border post in the hope of crossing back to South Africa. Home Affairs Minister has warned of a humanitarian crisis as numbers on South African border posts increase daily. We spoke to our reporter Pimani Baloi and Home Affairs Spokesperson Siya Qoza
Basic Education Department has warned all personnel employed to mark the Matric Examinations not to conceal information on testing positive for the Coronavirus or face charges of misconduct. The department has compiled a list of reserve markers who would be used in case any markers test positive. The marking starts today and strict screening and hygiene protocols have reportedly been implemented at all marking venues across the country. We spoke to Basic Education Spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
Government has been widely criticized for its approach in the race to procure a vaccine. Health Minister Zweli Mkhize says structures have been set up to expedite procurement of the COVID-19 vaccine. More than 40 million South Africans, are targeted to receive the COVID-19 vaccine by the end of the year. He further says so far government has only secured enough dosages to immunise 10% of the population. We spoke to Prof. Shabir Madhi, Professor of Vaccinology at Wits University.
History is made today as the first goods begin to flow under Africa-wide free-trade pact, the culmination of more than five years of negotiations on cutting cross-border tariffs. Africa could be the world's biggest free-trade zone by area when its treaty becomes fully operational by 2030. In his New year's message, President Cyril Ramaphosa in his capacity as African Union Chairperson said the agreement would fundamentally change the economic fortunes of the continent. We spoke to Victor Kgomoesoana, Author and Director of "Africa is open for business" AND Sophie Mokoena, SABC's Foreign Editor.
Adjusted Level 3 lockdown regulations have again outlawed alcohol, extended curfew, and made listening to law enforcement orders to put on a mask mandatory. Breaking any of these decrees could result in a fine or term of imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both…but are South Africans complying with these regulations? We spoke to Brigadier Vish Naidoo, the national South African Police Service spokesperson, who gave us a picture of how South Africans are coping and behaving under these regulations.
Funeral parlous in the Eastern Cape are struggling to keep up with the demand for coffins as the number of Covid related deaths continues to rise amid the second wave. The new, more infectious variant of coronavirus is driving the second wave of the pandemic. The Eastern Cape now accounts for over 50 percent of new Covid 19 related deaths, and funeral parlours in the province are running out of coffins.We spoke to the secretary of National Funeral Practitioners of South Africa, Odwa Duru.
The Department of Health says traffic congestion at the Beitbridge border post that recently led to the death of eight people waiting to cross, was caused by travellers arriving at the border without negative Covid-19 test certificates and opting to do the test at the border. Health MEC Doctor Phophi Ramathuba and the Human Rights Commission conducted a fact-finding mission at the border post. Rudzani Tshivhase compiled a report for us then we spoke to Victor Mavhindula, the Provincial Manager at the South African Human Rights Commission in Limpopo.
South Africa expects the first delivery of Covid-19 vaccines only after March 2021, while Discovery Health says funding has been set aside for 2- million of its members to get the vaccine as it throws its weight behind a national effort to source a cost-effective supplier. We spoke to Dr Ronald Whelan- Chief Commercial Officer at Discovery Health.
The latest lockdown regulations are irresponsible and unacceptable, when considering the balance of risks to life and livelihoods in South Africa. It focuses all the country's depleted resources into dubious measures combating one relatively small contributor to death rates in South Africa, Covid-19, at the expense of all other causes of death and risk, so says Legal analyst at Sakeliga Daniel du Plessis...he spoke to us.
Queues of vehicles at the congested Beitbridge border post into Zimbabwe now stretch to the town of Musina about 14 kilometres from the border post. Chairperson of the Beitbridge Transport and Clearing Agency Association, Eugene Khoza, attributes the congestion to the curfew to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus as many travellers arrive at the border at almost the same time. The Zimbabwean side of the border closes at 18h00 due to the curfew forcing travellers to spent hours waiting. They often sleep in their vehicles waiting for the border to open. We spoke to the spokesperson for the Department of Transport in Limpopo, Matome Moremi-Taueastoala.
A Cape Town health doctor on Covid-19 frontline has written a moving open letter to Cape Town residents pleading with them to help support health workers at the coalface of the coronavirus pandemic. In the letter, Dr Andrea Mendelsohn (Senior medical officer - Western Cape community health centre) shares the challenges she and her colleagues are facing during the current second wave....she spoke to us...
We continue with the conversation that we started yesterday here on the show where some students at the University of South Africa (Unisa) are unhappy with their final year marks, citing that the online exams and marking systems put in place by the university were not properly organised. Unisa students wrote online examinations due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Among other grievances the students say the university has withheld their exams marks, however they were only allocated year marks which were too low. We spoke to chairperson for online examination steering committee at UNISA, Phindile Kamolane.
There is traffic disruption and congestion at the Beitbridge border and outside on the N1 in Musina, Limpopo, as travellers head to various destinations for the festive season holidays. Traffic volumes started increasing on Sunday 20 and continued today. Traffic officials appear unable to control traffic as trucks and small vehicles heading north towards Zimbabwe occupy both lanes. Some motorists say they have been in the queue for several days. A woman has also been reported to have died after collapsing near the border. She had been travelling on a bus since Monday afternoon. Queues at the troubled border are reportedly up to 15km long. Also, smugglers in Zimbabwe, assisted by South Africans are using inflatable boats to carry people and contraband across the crocodile infested Limpopo River. It is reported that people are paying anything between R100 and R500 for a one-way trip. We spoke to our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase, Dumisani Muleya, the managing editor of The News Hawks, a new investigative journalism centre in Harare AND had reaction from Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi.
Some students at the University of South Africa (Unisa) have voiced out their frustration over their final year marks. Unisa students wrote online examinations due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Among other grievances the students say the university has withheld their exams marks, however they were only allocated year marks which were too low. We spoke to a current CTA programme student at Unisa (whose identity had to be concealed) and got a response from acting vice- principal for teaching, learning, community engagement and student support, Prof Veronica McKay.
A family in Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal, is thrilled after they were reunited with their son who went missing nine years ago. The boy was kidnapped when he was only six days old. He was traced to Daveyton in Gauteng following police investigations. A woman has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping. We spoke to our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe.
Westbury is under siege...yet again. It's a deadly game of drugs and gangsterism. Residents are doubtful if the guns will ever fall silent. In a recent incident, a 7-year old girl was lucky to have survived stray bullets. One hit her in the stomach though. Our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe spoke to us.
During his latest address to the nation providing further details on COVID 19 restrictions, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the curfew now begins at 11PM until 4AM. This will also be in effect on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Questions have arisen that if a motorist is involved in a car accident during the curfew period, where technically they are breaking the law by being on the road without the necessary permit. Will that be sufficient reason for an insurer to reject a claim? We speak to chairperson of the Justice Project South Africa, Howard Dembovsky
A Mthatha woman is desperately looking for her two children after they were allegedly taken from her by the social development to a place of safety in February this year.The children were allegedly under the care of a neighbour, when a woman from social development department allegedly accompanied by police officials took the children. The woman who recycles cardboard for a living says she has been sent from pillar to post by officials when she tried to get her children back.We spoke to Eastern Cape Department of Social Development Spokesperson, Mzukisi Solani..
Yesterday former president Zuma's lawyers issued a statement indicating that he will not be participating in the state capture inquiry's urgent Constitutional Court case compelling him to abide by summons to appear before the commission next year. His snub of the ConCourt case means that when the application is heard on December 29, it will be unopposed by Zuma's lawyers. However, the commission will still have to persuade the highest court that it should hear its application directly and to find in its favour on the merits .We spoke to Tyrone Maseko, an attorney and legal analyst…
The ANC's Integrity Commission has recommended that the party's secretary-general, Ace Magashule, step aside. This after Magashule appeared before the party's Integrity Commission at Luthuli house in Johannesburg at the weekend. Magashule is out on 200-thousand-rand bail for criminal charges relating to a multi-million rand asbestos project while he was premier in the Free State. We spoke to our political reporter Samkele Maseko and Political analyst, Ongama Mtinka.
The CRL Commission has warned a witness that they could be jailed for not showing up at its hearings into the Rivers of Living Water Ministries and its leader Archbishop Stephen Zondo. The Commission is considering its options after Desiree Malesa didn't honor a scheduled appearance before them today. We spoke to our reporter Angela Bolowana.
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng has defended his stance on the coronavirus vaccine debate. Mogoeng says people must be able to express themselve freely about the vaccine. He was responding to criticism of his controversial prayer against any COVID-19 vaccine that could be infused with the mark of the devil. Mogoeng was tabling the Judiciary Annual Report for the 2019/20 financial year at his office in Midrand. He says he will not beg for permission to pray
BlindSA is leading a march to the Union Building demanding that President Cyril Ramaphosa ratify the Copy Write Amendment Act that will allow them to convert books into brail or other accessible formats without the consent of the publishing houses. Ntshavheni Netshituni, president of BlindSA, says their demands are two fold. First they want to Copy Write Amendment Act discussed and adopted at the first parliamentary session next year and secondly they want South Africa to ratify the Marrakesh treaty. The Treaty makes the production and international transfer of specially-adapted books for people with blindness or visual impairments easier. It does this by establishing a set of limitations and exceptions to traditional copyright law. Netshituni, says the Copy Write Amendment Act will also allow print disabled people to convert books, handbooks and learning material without the permission of the publishing houses to give them access to the material. Netshinutni says they have been trying to get the Amended Bill passed for 7 years now. We spoke to our very own colleague Rhulani Baloyi...
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize says South Africa is officially in the second wave of the coronavirus. He says the country has breached the six-thousand mark in new cases in the last reporting period, for the first time since the pandemic began. The death toll has risen to 22-thousand-574 after COVID -19 related fatalities were recorded…To better understand where we are as country, we spoke to Professor Thumbi Ndung'u, Deputy Director at the African Health Research Institute
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize says South Africa is officially in the second wave of the coronavirus. He says the country has breached the six-thousand mark in new cases in the last reporting period, for the first time since the pandemic began. The death toll has risen to 22-thousand-574 after COVID -19 related fatalities were recorded…To better understand where we are as country, we spoke to Professor Thumbi Ndung'u, Deputy Director at the African Health Research Institute.
The controversial PPE tender awarded to Ledla Structural Development has been cancelled, in a ruling by the Special Tribunal of South Africa. The matter was brought to the tribunal by the Special Investigating Unit which also requested that the 38 million Rand paid out to the company and then distributed to six other entities, be frozen. The tender was clouded with allegations of nepotism and corruption earlier this year and cost Health MEC Bandile Masuku his job. Judge Billy Motlhe also upheld the application to freeze the pension payout of former Health Department Chief Financial Officer Mantsu Lehloenya. We spoke to Advocate Selby Makgatho, spokesperson for the Special Tribunal of South Africa.
The families of two businesswomen who were shot and killed execution style at the industrial site of Polokwane in Limpopo two months ago say they are happy with police evidence that has transpired at the local magistrate court so far. Police say 46 year old Makwena Mabisela Leshabane and her friend 35 year old Tebogo Mphuthi were followed from Gauteng by four hitmen who subsequently cornered them and shot them while sitting inside their car. Five suspects including the husband of Makwena, Stanley Leshabane were arrested and are applying for bail. Police say the shooting incident was positively captured in a syvilence camera, and cellphone and car trackor network evidence directly put the suspects at the scene of crime. The suspects also alleged confessed that they were hired by Stanley Leshabane (the husband of one of the deceased women) to commit the hit. Two of the suspects are taxi drivers, one is taxi queue marshal while one is an UBER driver in Germiston and Katlegong. We spoke to our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase.
A Hammanskraal businessman has appeared in the Pretoria Specialized Commercial Crimes court on allegations of fraud and bribery in connection with the Department of Labour's UIF Covid-19 relief fund amounting to R110-million rand. Thabo Simbini claimed to have terminated more than 6-thousand employees from their employment during lockdown. However, his company, Impossible Services , did not have any employees other than himself. Simbini allegedly fraudulently used people's IDs to claim for UIF and relief benefits without their knowledge. The company was paid more than R110-million based on the fraudulent claims. Meanwhile, Simbini's bank accounts had been frozen by the Assets Forfeiture Unit. The case has been postponed to January 29th. We spoke to our reporter Maluti Obuseng.
The civil rights organisation AfriForum today published a report: Serial Rape in South Africa, on the rape crisis in South Africa using news reports, available data, research performed by various institutions, court cases and other sources. The report identifies rape and sexual assault trends, the main motives and beliefs behind the high numbers, and lists the most prolific serial rapists in the country's history. Afroforum says the report unpacks how the South African justice system has dealt with the matter, highlighting in particular the justice system's failings in this regard. We spoke to Monique Taute, head of campains at Afriforum.
Teachers Union, SADTU, says it will head to court on today to seek an urgent interdict to challenge the Basic Education Department's decision that matric learners must rewrite the leaked exam papers. Minister Angie Motshekga announced on Friday that learners would rewrite Mathematics paper two and Physical Science paper two on December 15 and 17, respectively. We spoke to Tshegofatso Bathobotlhe, a matric learner at Golfview Park High in Mafikeng, she says the decision to have everyone rewrite maths and physical science papers is unfair on them as students who did not cheat the system; Vanishaa Gordhan, Project Manager at the South African Anxiety and Depression Group (SADAG) AND Professor Ahmed Bawa (CEO: Universities South Africa).
An explosion has occurred at the Engen Oil refinery at Merebank south of Durban. The cause of the explosion is unknown at this stage. Seven people have been injured. Emergency services say the seven sustained mild injuries and have been treated on the scene. Community members from Wentworth and surrounding areas are challenging the Engine Oil Refinery to upgrade infrastructure to ensure proper operations. We spoke to Frank Alexander, who is an activist with the South Durban Basin Community Development Trust.
Meanwhile Engen Oil Refinery says they will launch an investigation following this morning's explosion at their Wentworth plant south of Durban. We also spoke to Engen's Public Affairs Manager, Thandeka Cele…
The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) says the occurrence of the December 1st results generated in a Powerball draw, while uncommon, are not impossible. The results generated, have since received public scrutiny. The NLC says it would like to assure all South Africans that all National Lottery games and methods used to conduct draws undergo a rigorous process of review prior to approval by the NLC. We spoke to spokesperson for the NLC Ndivhuho Mafela.
South Africa is currently experiencing outbreaks of locusts in the Free State, Northern Cape and Western Cape. Several countries in East Africa - namely Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda and South Sudan - are still trying to contain the worst desert locust invasion the region has experienced in over 70 years. The locusts have destroyed vegetation - especially staple cereal crops, legumes and pastures - resulting in huge economic losses….to help us better understand the severity and impact this outbreak could have of food security, we spoke to Agriculture, land reform and rural development minister Thoko Didiza.
The Labour Appeals Court will hear the matter of the public servants salary increase. Unions are demanding that government honours its three-year wage agreement of 8%. Government has offered to enter into last-minute settlement talks with public sector unions over salary increases after it had previous said it does not have the money for the increases. Labour unions have accused government of operating in bad faith and only wanting to negotiate now at the eleventh hour. We spoke to our reporter Tshepo Mongoai and had analysis from mining and labour analyst, Mamokgethi Molopyane.
The spokesperson for the Mkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans Association (MKMVA) in KwaZulu-Natal , Dumisani Thango, says they have been misrepresented in the media about their efforts when it comes to how foreign shop owners should be handled. This follows the recent protest where veterans took to the streets to target foreign-owned shops and stalls, demanding their immediate closure.He says they as an association have been engaging leadership in the province to pronounce their stance on undocumented and illegal foreign nationals but nothing has been done about their cry.
A man has been arrested in connection with the brutal slaying of six family members in the Elliotdale area earlier this week. The arrest of the man late on Thursday night was confirmed the by Eastern Cape police this morning. We spoke to Eastern Cape provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Thembinkosi Kinana
The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa) is not happy with continued suspension of initiations . Traditional leaders and surgeons in the Eastern Cape have expressed disappointment at yet another suspension of the circumcision custom by government. The suspension is due to an increase in coronavirus infections in the province. Contralesa Chairperson in the Eastern Cape , Chief Mwelo Nonkonyana, 'says government's delay in opening the summer initiation season has led to the mushrooming of illegal initiation schools in the province. He also says there is no scientific proof that the second wave of COVID-19 will be caused by initiation schools. He spoke to us.
Foreign truck drivers have been given an ultimatum to vacate their jobs at the beginning of December or face mass disruptions. This ultimatum was issued by the All Truck Drivers Foundation (ATDF), a group of local truck drivers advocating for 100% employment of local truck drivers. At least 20 trucks were torched last Thursday and five trucks on Saturday night, more trucks were set alight on Monday night through to the early hours of Tuesday morning. Trucks were reportedly set alight in Leondale, Germiston, and Vosloorus, with a truck driver shot before being burnt in his truck, according to SA Long Distance Truckers. We spoke to Doreen Van Rooyen, Spokesperson for the South African Long Distance Truckers AND Eastern Cape spokesperson for All Truck Drivers Forum, Michael Masimini.
The Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is investigating allegations of racism at Brackenfell High School in Cape Town. The Commission held a media briefing this morning as result of allegations of racism that emerged in relation to the convening of a matric function for a number of Brackenfell High learners. These allegations have led to protest action outside the school, resulting in well documented incidences of violence on several occasions. We spoke to Commissioner Andre Gaum of the South African Human Rights Commission.
South Africa has sunk deeper into junk status after Moody's Investors Service and Fitch Ratings in lowered the country's credit ratings this weekend. Moody's cut the nation's foreign and local-currency ratings to Ba2, two levels below investment grade, from Ba1 while Fitch cut the nation's foreign and local-currency ratings to BB-, three levels below investment grade, from BB, also with a negative outlook. What does this mean for the average South African? We spoke to Economist Duma Gqubule.
Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is to lay criminal charges with the police against former president Jacob Zuma after he walked out of the commission last week. Zuma and his legal team walked out of the commission in Johannesburg last week in defiance of the summons it had issued against the former president, after he failed in his bid to get Zondo to recuse himself from hearing his testimony. Zondo's response comes as calls mount from civil society organisations for him to deal decisively with Zuma. Zondo says no one is above the law. We got analysis from Prof. Lesiba Teffo, Political Analyst.
Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has turned down former President Jacob Zuma's application for his recusal. Zondo says Zuma's lawyers have failed to prove that their client will not get a fair hearing. Zuma had alleged that the historical relations between himself and Zondo, the commission's selection of witnesses and the Deputy Chief Justice's comments to earlier witnesses were reasonable grounds for him to recuse himself. Zondo however disagreed
Meanwhile former president Jacob Zuma then left the State Capture Inquiry without permission. Zondo says this is the serious matter,as Zuma was supposed to take the witness stand. We also spoke to Political Analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni
SABC board deputy chairperson Mamodupi Mohlala-Mulaudzi says five of the members are against retrenchments at the public broadcasters. The SABC board has three executive members and 11 non-executive members. Meanwhile, SABC management is adamant that it's continuing with the retrenchment of 400 permanent staff. In an email to staff, SABC management and the board have apologised for what they've called the confusion that yesterday's stand-off with news staff created. Group Executive of News, Phathiswa Magopeni, said she couldn't continue issuing letters of redundancy to affected staff. The SABC is set to appear before Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Communications later today. For more clarity we are joined on the line by Deputy Chairperson of the SABC Board, Mamodupi Mohlala-Mulaudzi to explain why she and some of her colleagues are against the retrenchments ...
Meanwhile, Communications Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams says she's been in talks with her other colleagues in government to try and find a solution to the SABC impasse
Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, has assured members of Parliament that self proclaimed Malawian prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary, did not leave the country with a delegation of Malawian President, Lazarus Chakwera, while on a state visit last week. Motsoaledi is appearing before Parliament's portfolio committee to explain issues around the Bushiri couple permanent residency. They have violated their bail conditions and fled to Malawi. They are charged with theft, fraud and money laundering involving over 100-million rand. Motsoaledi has explained to MPs that the planes of the presidential team last week, was searched twice to ensure the Bushiri couple was not on the flight. He added that all persons from that delegatioin leaving the country was processed using legitimate identity documents on the Home Affairs electronic movement control system.
Meanwhile,The Hawks have applied for a Red Notice with Interpol to provisionally arrest the Bushiri-couple. A Red Notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action.
Police have their hands full in controlling scores of ANC supporters who are demanding to be allowed inside the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court ahead of the appearance of party secretary-general Ace Magashule. NPA spokesperson, Sipho Ngwema, believes they have a watertight case against all the accused. Sixty-one-year-old Magashule handed himself over to the Hawks and is currently appear in the Bloemfontein magistrates court. Magashule is among those accused in the alleged irregular awarding of the 255-million-rand asbetos roofing assessment tender. We spoke to Political Analyst, Ongama Mtimka.
The SABC has announced it is ready to implement Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act despite months of talks between employer and unions. The number of staff affected by the move however, has gone down from 600 to 400. There are about 170 vacant positions that will be available for employees to apply for, which provides the potential of further reducing the number of affected employees to 230. The SABC also intends implementing and considering other cost cutting alternatives. We spoke to Aubrey Tshabalala, Communication Workers' Union spokesperson.
South Africa's unemployment rate has increased by 7.5% to 30.8% in the third quarter of 2020. Statistics South Africa has just released the unemployment figure for the third quarter, announcing that the unemployment rose to 30-point-8 percent from 23-point-3 percent in the second quarter. However, the unemployment rate was artificially low in the second quarter because Statistics South Africa only classifies people as unemployed if they are actively looking for work, which many people were unable to do in the second quarter because of the strict coronavirus lockdown. There were 6-point-5 million people unemployed in the third quarter, compared with 4-point-3 million unemployed people in the second quarter. We spoke to Statistician general Risenga Maluleke.
The EFF has vowed to intensify its campaign against alleged racism at Brackenfell High School in the Western Cape. EFF members and parents of the school clashed over a private matric celebration organised by some parents which allegedly excluded black students. Western Cape Education Minister Debbie Schafer has warned that if the EFF continues its protest action she will approach the courts to interdict them from disrupting the Grade 12 examinations. Meanwhile President Cyril Ramaphosa has also condemned the incident and has called for an urgent investigation into allegations of racism at the school. He says all parties involved should exercise restraint and resolved the matter peacefully and through dialogue. We spoke to our reporter, Berenice Moss and Kerry Mauchline, spokesperson for the Western Cape Education MEC, Debbie Schäfer.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says it is prepared to run free, fair and safe by-elections cross country on Wednesday. It will conduct By- elections in 96 wards in 56 municipalities. The commission has been unable to hold elections since March this year due to the coronavirus lockdown and plans to clear the backlog of all outstanding by-elections simultaneously this week. IEC CEO Sy Mamabolo and Deputy CEO Masego Sheburi explain what measures have been put in place at voting stations .
Democratic Presidential nominee Joe Biden is six electoral college delegates shy of winning the United States Presidency after he was projected winner of both key Midwestern states of Wisconsin and Michigan. With the magic number of 270 delegates required to win the White House, Biden could seal his victory with a win in Nevada, where he holds a slight lead over incumbent President Donald Trump, whose campaign is seeking to challenge the voting process in several states, citing mail-in-ballot fraud -- without any evidence -- as the prospect increases of him becoming one-term President. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports... We also spoke to Dr. Michelle Small, Lecturer in the Department of International Relations at the University of the Witwatersrand…
US President Donald Trump has declared an unsupported victory in a speech from the White House. Millions of votes in the 2020 election are yet to be counted. Trump says his administration will head to the Supreme Court to stop all voting and ensure the integrity of the polls.Meanwhile, Democratic challenger Joe Biden has expressed optimism with the United States Presidential Election, saying his team is on the right track to win the poll. He addressed supporters earlier at his hometown in Wilmington Delaware, calling for patience as vote counting continues. We got further analysis from Prof. John Stremlau, Honorary Professor of International Relations at Wits University.
Pastor Timothy Omotoso has been denied bail by the High Court in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. Omotoso and co-accused are facing over 90 charges related to sexual offences. This is the third time Omotoso has been denied bail since his arrest in 2017. Our reporter Veronica Fourie gave us the latest update.
Enlightened Christian Gathering Church leader Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary have been granted bail of R200- thousand each. They have been in custody for almost three weeks. The Bushiri's and four other accused are facing fraud, corruption and money laundering charges. Here is the Pretoria Magistrate's Thandi Theledi outlining the Bushiri's bail conditions. We also got an update from our reporter, Phanuel Shuma.
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has just granted former BOSASA COO Angelo Agrizzi. bail at the High Court in Johannesburg. Agrizzi has been in jail since the 14th of this month after the Specialized Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court refused to grant him bail. He is facing a corruption charge which relates to the payments made to former ANC MP Vincent Smith who is also on bail for fraud and corruption. Here is Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng handing down that judgement.
Former state security minister Bongani Bongo's has been granted R10 000 bail. He faces new charges of corruption, fraud, theft and money laundering related to three dodgy land deals worth 124 million rands in Mpumalanga. Bongo is today among 14 other co-accused appearearing before the Nelspruit regional court for his alleged role in the said deals where prices were supposedly inflated. The deals happened during his tenure as a senior government official in Mpumalanga. Warrant of arrest for him and his co-accused was issued on Tuesday. We spoke to our reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi.
There's a heavy police AND SUPPORTER presence at the Randburg Magistrates Court today, as EFF leader Julius Malema and MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi's appear in court. Police officer, Johannes Venter laid a charge of assault against Malema and Ndlozi, after they allegedly assaulted him during the funeral of struggle icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in 2018. We got an update from our reporter, Abongile Dumako.
The murder case of former Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates captain Senzo Meyiwa has been postponed to the 27th of next month in the Boksburg Magistrate's Court east of Johannesburg. At the start of the appearance the five accused refused to enter the dock in the Boksburg Magistrates court saying they did not kill the soccer star. The accused have been identified as Themba Sibiya, Bongani Ntanzi, Mthobisi Ncube, Mthokozisi Maphisa and Sifiso Ntuli. The five suspects refused to apply for bail saying that they do not know what they have been arrested for.We spoke to our reporter Tshepo Phagane.
Kliptown residents in Soweto say if they had swimming pools in their area the death of two kids aged 13 and 14 could have been avoided. The teenagers were cooling off in the stream over, amid high temperatures being experienced in parts of the country yesterday. We spoke to our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe.
More than 53% of the population is vulnerable to trafficking and the reality is that less than 1% of victims are ever rescued. This is according to anti-human trafficking non-profit organisation, A21. South Africa is known as a source, transit, and destination country, with an estimated 155 000 people enslaved. The beauty and perception of economic prosperity lure people from all over Africa and Asia with the promise of a better life. As we continue with our Human Trafficking feature, today we learn more about how perpetrators operate, the types of human trafficking that exist and how victims are tracked down. We spoke to International Consultant and Human Trafficking and Organized Crime Scholar @ Unisa's Department of Police Practice, Marcel van der Watt.
EFF's Sinawo Tambo explains why the party is not happy with Ranjeni Munusamy’s appointment as Political Secretary for Finance Minister Tito Mboweni
We are still continuing with our feature this month where we put the spotlight on human trafficking. East Africa, especially Kenya, remains the exit point for smugglers transporting Africans to the Middle-Eastern countries to be exploited in ways described as equivalent to modern day slavery. This emerged during a webinar hosted by organised crime programme -- ENACT -- and the Institute for Security Studies. The latest organised crime research, based on interviews with some of the people smuggled out of Africa to work in the Gulf-states, has revealed how many of them were forced to work long hours, without any medical attention. Some were physically and sexually harassed by their employers. This report was compiled by our reporter Tshepo Phagane. We also spoke to Tershia de Klerk- Chief Operations Officer of Stop Trafficking Of People (STOP)
The Special Investigating Unit has withdrawn its application to freeze the accounts of the two companies awarded the contract to erect the Beitbridge border post fence. Public Works and Infrastructure department paid Caledon River Properties Limited and Profteam over R21.8 million in advance for the erection of the 40 kilometre barrier, which separates South Africa and Zimbabwe. The fence was procured in terms of the COVID-19 prevention measures to stop the inflow of people from neighbouring countries.We spoke to our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe
Police have managed to prevent a scuffle between the EFF supporters and farmers in Senekal in the Free State. They continue to monitor the situation. The Human Rights Commission in the Free State is calling for calm. Different groups of protesters have ascended to Senekal for bail application of two men accused of the murder of the farm manager, Brandin Horner. For more what is happening outside of court we spoke our political reporter Abongile Dumako and Thabiso Radebe inside the courtroom
Today the world marks International Day of Rural Women with a special focus on building rural women's resilience in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic. The United Nation says many Rural Women Suffer From Discrimination. The department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is appealing to South Africans to Use #ruralwomen on social media to show the world that you stand in solidarity with rural women and their organizations everywhere as they seek to influence the decisions that shape their lives. We spoke to the minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza.
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Draft Bill has been gazetted by the provincial Department of Economic Development. It proposes to revitalize and reserve certain sectors of township economies exclusively for South African citizens or naturalized citizens in Gauteng. The bill gives due consideration to the empowerment of township enterprises by seeking to include them in state procurement and devising appropriate funding models for the benefit of citizens in the informal sector and labour markets.We spoke to Gauteng government spokesperson Thabo Masebe and got analysis from Labour Analyst, Terry Bell.
The ANC Youth League in Fezile Dabi Region is offering their members military training. An advert making rounds on social media platforms says this training is for all members of the ANCYL committed to defending the revolution. Activities listed include: Basic military training, hiking, gun handling, guerrilla tactics and political education. However the acting Regional Secretary of the ANC in the Fezile Dabi Region, Brutus Mahlaku, says they are not aware of this initiative from their ANC Youth League in the region. We spoke to Thabo Baleni, Spokesperson for the ANCYL in Fezile Dabi Region.
While recent crime stats for 2019/20 revealed an overall decline when compared to the prior year, only contact crimes for this period were up. We ask- how is South African crime compared to our neighbouring countries? We do a comparative study looking at Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe amd Botswana - questioning where and why we are high in certain areas compared to those countries? Where we can improve based on how those countries are handling crime and issues around policing and law enforcement? We also look at lessons we can learn from those countries. We spoke to Lizette Lancaster, Manager of the Crime and Justice Information and Analysis Hub at the Institute for Security Studies.
The council of the Fetakgomo-Tubatse local municipality has taken a resolution to purchase a privately owned civic centre building at a cost of 135 million rand. The property in Burgersfort is owned by Tubatse Properties. The municipality will pay 50 million rand deposit and a monthly instalment of nearly three-million rand for a period of three years. Meanwhile political parties and community structures are concerned about the high price of the building as they believe that the sales price has been inflated. We spoke to our reporter, Michael Makungo.
The Senekal Magistrate's Court in the Free State has denied bail to 51-year-old Andre Pienaar who's facing charges of attempted murder, malicious damage to property and public violence. The matter has been remanded until the 20th of next month for further investigations. Pienaar was arrested last week following violence in which a group of farmers stormed the court building to demand that two suspects charged with the murder of 21-year-old farm manager Brendin Horner be handed over to them. Magistrate Buti Mlangeni says the accused did not make a suffficient case to be released on bail among other reasons. We got our reporter Makgala Masiteng, to give us the latest update.
Sporadic reports recently of young people, especially females, being allegedly lured away from their homes on the promise of lucrative jobs only to find themselves being trafficked for sex- has caused mass panic and paranoia in the country. While cases of kidnappings, abductions and missing persons are also on the rise, a Social Development Trafficking in Person's Indaba last year revealed that at least more than one person is trafficked in South Africa per month. This number includes children and adults lured in or out of the country under false pretences. As we start a new series looking at Human Trafficking, today we bring you a story of Grizelda Grootboom, a survivor who has seen it all: from being homeless, living in shelters and being gang raped, to being hooked on drugs and prostitution…today she is still standing and fighting for the rights of prostitutes and the homeless...she shares her story...
The Mayor of Sol Plaatje municipality, Patrick Mabilo has appealed to workers to return to work as it is residents who are bearing the brunt of their protests. On Thursday the municipality asked workers to give them seven days to attend to their grievances, but workers had in response vowed to protest for seven days until their demands are met. The South African Municipal Workers Union has embarked on a protest over what it referred to as outstanding labour issues in the municipality since 2011. We spoke to Executive Mayor of the Sol Plaatje Municipality, Patrick Mabilo.
Operations have been disrupted in the Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. This is because the South African Municipal Workers Union has embarked on a protest over what it referred to as outstanding labour issues in the municipality since 2011. Workers are picketing outside the municipal offices while the police are monitoring the situation. We spoke to SAMWU's regional secretary Nomathamsanqa Banda who says no services will be rendered in the municipality until their demands are met.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura has fired Dr. Bandile Masuku from his position as Health MEC following allegations of corruption. Presidential spokesperson, Khusela Diko, health MEC Bandile Masuku and his wife - Johannesburg MMC, Loyiso Masuku - were placed on leave in July following a controversial multi-million rand PPE tender scandal. An SIU investigation has found that Masuku had failed to execute his function in compliance with the constitution and public financial act. Makhura addressed the media in Johannesburg...
Meanwhile The State Capture Commission evidence leader, Advocate Paul Pretorius says there are compelling reasons for former President Jacob Zuma to appear before the Commission. The Commission is hearing an application by its legal team for an order authorizing the Secretary of the Commission to issue a summons for Zuma. Earlier Zuma said his appearance before the Commission set for next month will be an incovience. He has also called for its Chairperson Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo to recuse himself citing he is bias. But Pretorius says it is not unusual to issue summons to a witness. He says many people have been summoned and that over 30 witnesses have also implicated Zuma.
The Special Investigations Unit says it has referred four criminal matters to the NPA with regard to the procurement of a border fence by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure at the border between South Africa and Zimbabwe. SIU Head Advocate, Andy Mothibi says this is with regard to two department officials, as well as two service providers. DPWI Director General Sam Vukela, Ministerial Advisor Melissa White and 11 other officials, are on suspension pending disciplinary measures. Joseph Mosia reports…
Meanwhile, The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has set the date for the hearing into the Beitbridge Border fence contract to next week Friday. The Special Tribunal, sitting at the Booysens Magistrates Court, wants to freeze the assets of contractors involved in the multi million Rand Beitbridge Border fence contract. This relates to an advance payment of 21 point 8 million rand by the Department of Public Works to two contractors. The contract was for the erection of the 40 km Beitbridge border fence. The tribunal will hear the urgent application today. We also spoke to our reporter, Angela Bolowana…
The former VBS Chief Financial Officer, Phillip Truter, has been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment, 3 year suspended. He appeared before the Palm Ridge Specialized Commercial Crimes Court on charges of corruption, money laundering, fraud, racketeering and theft. He is accused of facilitating the looting of VBS, and receiving R5.8 million. Truter pleaded guilty on various charges linked to the looting at the Mutual Bank and has now turned state witness.
ANC has denied media reports that a warrant of arrest has been issued out for its Secretary General, Ace Magashule. Last night media was abuzz with reports that the party's secretary general will be served with an arrest warrant for his alleged involvement in the Vrede Dairy Farm corruption matter. ANC Pule Mabe says Magashule has instructed his lawyers to write to the NPA to confirm whether there is truth to the reports. We also spoke to political analyst, Prof Tinyiko Maluleke.
In the past few weeks, we have been speaking to various stakeholders in the railway industry. Looking to understand the challenges of the railway industry holistically. We spoke to commuter organisations, anti-crime campaigners, metal scrap yard organisations and today we speak to Prasa to find out what is being done to restore services, are they winning the fight against theft and vandalism of the infrastructure? and how have they improved on security/ protecting their infrastructure going forward? We spoke to Nosipho Damasane- CEO of the PRASA Rail Division.
The seven accused in the R255m asbestos corruption matter have been release on bail ranging between one-hundred thousand and five-hundred thousand rand in the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court.We spoke to our reporter, Ishmael Modiba.
ANC senior member and former MP, Vincent Smith, appeared in court earlier this morning over alleged charges of fraud and corruption for his beneficial relationship with BOSASA when he was the chairperson of the Correctional Services Portfolio Committee. He was granted bail. Smith handed himself over at the Alberton Police Station this morning, following evidence presented at the State capture Commission of Inquiry around his relationship with African Global Operations, formerly known as BOSASA. We spoke to our reporter Ntebo Mokobo, followed up on the latest with Hawks arrests with our reporter Sashin Naidoo and got analysis from Dr. Somadoda Fikeni, Policy and Political Analyst.
SASSA says it has plans to reduce SRD Grant rejection rates. SASSA says it has experienced a rise in the number of rejection rates for the COVID-19 grant applications. This can be attributed to several factors such a mismatch between details provided by beneficiaries and reliance on the information derived from data sets obtained from institutions such as UIF and SARS databases among others. In August there was a significant increase in the number of rejections, as SASSA implemented an additional step of means testing applications against banks. However SASSA tonot sue the means test through the banks as a criteria to determine eligibility. This will affect the approximately 1,9 million people who have been receiving the grant to date, but who were declined in August.We spoke to Paseka Letsatsi- SASSA's spokesperson.
The Hawks have arrested several officials and businessmen in Gauteng, Free State and Kwazulu-Natal - following evidence at the State Capture Commission relating to the 2014 Free State Asbestos Project. More arrests are expected in various parts of the province today. The suspects are expected to face charges - including fraud, corruption, theft and money laundering - in relation to an over 200-million-rand asbestos audit deal.
2.2 million people have lost their jobs in South Africa in the 2nd quarter of 2020. The number of employed people has decreased to 14,1 million compared to the first quarter of 2020. Stats SA has just released the much anticipated job numbers for the second quarter of 2020 after more than a month of postponements. The unemployment figure also reflects the worst impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on the economy following the hard-lockdown -- which halted most economic activities from March till June. We spoke to economic reporter Mbongeni Muthwa and got reaction from Cosatu's spokesperson Sizwe Pamla.
Sibusiso Matshaya has been sentenced to five life terms and an additional 25 years for raping raping four school girls and two women in and around Vereeniging in the Vaal. Matshaya who is dubbed the Vereeniging serial rapist appeared in the High Court sitting in Palm Ridge east of Johannesburg. The court also ordered that Matshaya's name be added to the sexual offenders' register. Between 2016 and 2019, Matshaya waited in the open veld where he targeted women and young girls walking alone. He accosted them, threaten them with a firearm or a knife and dragged them into the bush before raping them. Horisani Sithole reports ...
The pointing of fingers by three police officials implicated in the killing of Eldorado Park teenager Nathaniel Julies continues in court.The bail hearing is currently under way in the Protea Magistrate's Court in Soweto. Simon "Scorpion" Ndyalvane, Caylene Whiteboy have been charged with murder, defeating the ends of justice and being in possession of prohibited ammunition and discharging a firearm in public. Voster Netshiongolo however, has been charged with being an accessory to murder. The 16-year-old boy who had Down Syndrome, was shot and killed in Eldorado Park south of Johannesburg last month. We spoke to our reporter Prabashni Naicker..
Action SA leader Herman Mashaba says his legal team has began implementing a legal strategy that will force government to retrieve the container trapped underground 4 years ago at Lilly Mine in Mpumalanga with mine workers: Yvonne Mnisi, Pretty Nkambule, and, Solomon Nyerende inside. Mashaba held a media briefing earlier today in Sandton Johannesburg. He was joined by family members of the 3 trapped mine workers.....
The ANC in Gauteng has decided not to release its Provincial Integrity Commission (PIC) report on PPE corruption scandal. The Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) met for two days deliberating on the report which it felt had inconsistencies, contradictions and lacked adequate information. The PEC resolved to extend leave of absence for Health MEC Bandile Masuku, his wife Loyiso who is an MMC in the City of Johannesburg and Presidency spokesperson Khusela Diko by two weeks. The trio took leave of absence as they were being probed by the PIC after they were implicated in the awarding of R2 billion PPE tenders by the provincial Health Department. Nomalizo Mandela filed this report
The total number of reports on corruption has increased. In 2020 there were 1-thousand-995 corruption cases reported to civil society organisation Corruption Watch compared to 1-thousand-591 cases last year. This is an increase of over 400 cases. The anti-corruption body says 55 percent of the bulk of corruption cases reported to them were gathered after the national state of disaster was declared from mid-March. Corruption Watch released its annual report of corruption trends for 2020 today *(Tuesday-22/09) . Whistleblower allegations of corruption in the South African Police Service, municipal offices, schools, traffic and licensing centres, and the health sector - accounted for a third of the reports of corruption. Amina Accram reports... We also spoke Kavisha Pillay, Head of Legal and Investigations at Corruption Watch…
SALGA in Mpumalanga is calling for the dissolution of the Lekwa Municipality. The municipality has seen a spate of protests action by residents and also the workers of the municipality. The workers were calling for the removal of the municipal manager while workers are concerned about lack of service delivery. We spoke to Muzi Chirwa, SALGA provincial spokesperson in Mpumalanga…
Meanwhile The handing over of land by Free State Matjhabeng municipality to Eskom has left many unanswered questions about how much land government really owns. This follows Eskom's announcement, earlier this week, that the municipality (which includes Welkom) had "agreed to hand over … 139 farms" as security for its R3.4 billion debt. Eskom values the farms at R2,5 billion, or R18 million each on average. We spoke to Betrus Maritz, Legal Adviser to Matjhabeng Municipality..
SAA's creditors are meeting today to possibly discuss liquidation, should government fail to provide the airlines business rescue practitioners with the necessary confirmation. Government has until today to indicate if it's managed to secure the required funds to save South African Airways from possible liquidation.We spoke to our reporter Amina Accram. We also spoke to our reporter, Mbali Mthethwa about The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) and South African Airways (SAA) staff picketing outside Airways Park to demand funding for SAA today.
Eastern Cape Health MEC Sindiswa Gomba is answering questions before the Special Tribunal today. This follows allegations of financial irregularities involving her department's controversial R10 million scooter project. The Special Investigative Unit (SIU) alleges that the contract was "awarded in an unusual and unexplained haste". We spoke to Adv. Selby Makgotho- Spokesperson for the Special Tribunal.
SA Express employees are bidding to buy the state-owned airline in an attempt to save jobs and to prevent the carrier's final liquidation. A bid for the airline's assets would be backed by private investors and Fly SAX, with the employees as the owner. Last week the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria granted an extension for SA Express's final liquidation to the 28th of October. Fly SAX Spokesperson, Thabsile Sikhakhane says employees who have not been paid salaries since February want total ownership of the airline. She spoke to us.
Former Prasa security guards are demanding their jobs back. This follows the appointment & insourcing of 3 100 PRASA security personnel as part of the plan. A protest ensued just before the launch of the Ministerial Security Plan started by Minister of Transport, Fikile Mbalula. Angry security guards say PRASA needs to respect the court order which says service providers must go back work. We spoke to Andries Potsane, national organizer of the South African Cleaners, Security and Allied Workers Union (SACSAWU).
Eskom has submitted a R5.4 billion supplementary tariff application to energy regulator Nersa, and for the first time it has also included interest – to the tune of R1.3 billion – in the application. This is over and above the R27 billion application Eskom made for its Regulatory Clearing Account. Eskom won a court case against Nersa after the regulator unlawfully and irrationally truncated Eskom's application to R13 billion We spoke to Hasha Tlhotlhalemaje, General Manager of Regulations at Eskom.
The Health Department says it will take legal action against funeral undertakers who contravene the law as undertakers started a three-day strike action yesterday. Government mortuaries are starting to take strain as the strike gains momentum. Undertakers are currently protesting over their working conditions and remuneration. They are also demanding the out-sourcing of mortuary facilities. The strike has affected the movement of dead bodies between homes, hospitals and mortuaries nationwide. We spoke to Murdock Ramathuba, National Director responsible for Environmental Health at the Department of Health.
More than 3000 funeral industry employees are on strike, saying all members of 17 black funeral associations and forums are non-operational in all provinces from today. This after they and the National Health Department failed to reach an agreement on the outsourcing of mortuary facilities owned by black funeral undertakers to be recognized and legalized amid the Covid-19 lockdown. We crossed live to our reporters is various provinces.
Economists and transport experts warn that cable theft and vandalism of Metrorail's commuter rail network is economic sabotage. Stations are bricked up, hacked-off cables dangle over the lines, and the tracks are just open land for people 's makeshift homes. Just seven of Metrorail's 34 commuter lines are currently operating countrywide with only reduced services. As The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) grapples with the results of large-scale looting by cable thieves, we look at the criminal activity behind this destruction and what the modus operadi of these thieves is. We spoke to anti-crime campaigner, Yusuf Abramjee.
The current decline of Growth Domestic Product (GDP) is at 17.1% instead of the 51% proclaimed by Stats SA. That's according to an economist, Dr. Roelof Botha, who is an economic advisor at Optimum Investment Group. Botha has lambasted Stats SA and says the figure given by Stats SA is woefully misleading, and is not reflective of the state of the economy at all. He spokes to us.
Tributes continue to pour in for Human Rights Lawyer Advocate George Bizos who passed on yesterday. George Bizos, died at the age of 92 in Johannesburg. From a teenager forced to flee war in Greece, Bizos became a South African lawyer of international standing. Let me take you down memory lane when I hosted him on the 16th of March 2018 on the Forum at 8 .
South Africa is now ranking 90th out of 162 in the Economic Freedom of the World annual report of 2020. An improvement from previous years. In 2000 South Africa ranked 58th. Free Market Foundation has just released the report. Leon Louw, CEO, Free Market Foundation says South Africa can achieve more economic freedom if it wants to and is serious about it....he spoke to us.
City Power claims that only 4% of residents are paying for electricity in Alexandra. The utility has been in the township since morning with police, the JMPD and SANDF members to clamp down on illegal connections which cost around R2 billion per year. Our reporter Maageketla Mohlabe gave us the latest update.
Santaco's chief strategic manager - Bafana Magagula says fighting over positions and money are the main reasons for the cause of fights in many associations. He is currently giving testimony at the Commission of Inquiry into Taxi Violence. The president of the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) Phillip Taaibosch told the commission that taxi violence is the worst in Gauteng, with conflict lesser in other provinces. Our reporter Wisani Makhubele gave us that report.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs minister, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, says the Covid-19 pandemic will most likely lead to more local government entities to become unavailable. She is today addressing the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on the challenges and opportunities in local government. Our reporter Zalene Merrington gave us an update.
Clicks Group CEO Vikesh Ramsunder responds to the whole hair advert saying that he was deeply disappointed that the company allowed insensitive and offensive images to be published on its website.
The Passenger rail Agency South Africa (PRASA) says they are experiencing unprecedented levels of vandalism across all regional Metrorail and Shosholoza Meyl services resulting in massive disruption to services. In Gauteng alone, over 672,000 daily train commuters are left stranded by the collapse of train services, while 1,833 incidents of train stations have been vandalised over the past three years at a replacement cost in excess of R2 billion. We spoke to Paul Soto, Chairman of the United Commuters Voice.
John Moodey has resigned as leader of the DA in Gauteng and as member of the party. Moodey has been a member of the party since 1998. He joins a string of prominent members who have left the DA since last October. Former city of Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba and former party leader, Mmusi Maimane led the exodus from the party. Moodey says he cannot be part of an organization which is comfortable with being the main opposition in the country. We also spoke to DA's National Spokesperson, Refiloe Nt'sekhe and Political Analyst, Professor Somadoda Fikeni
Rostec Techinal College (High School) students in Gauteng are up in arms after the received notice from the institution that an additional amount of R2700 needs to be paid for them write their final exams and to pay for the invigilator. Most students fees are allegedly already in arrears. The students say school management informed them that they will need to be that additional R2700 to pay for the invigilator. They say were not given formal notice of this - instead the notification sent out to parents says that the extra fee charged is as a result of the lockdown. Prior to this, students say they didn't not have to pay for to write their exams. Those who do not pay by the end of August are told they will not be able to sit in the exams. We spoke to our reporter Nosipho Mncube.
Large amounts of copper cables belonging to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has been recovered at New Canada rail station, West of Johannesburg. Early this month we reported about criminals continuing to targeting Gauteng rail infrastructure stripping it bare. Metal railway lines, overhead cables, and other items are being taken from local stations and lines. Vandalism of the network had forced rail agency Prasa to use diesel locomotives along certian lines in the Gauteng. We spoke to Makhosini Mgitywa, PRASA Spokesperson.
Mayhem has erupted in Eldorado Park, where residents clashed with police and several police cars were torched. This follows the death of a teen with a disability was allegedly shot by the police yesterday. The teen has since been identified as Nathaniel Julius and his family says they want justice for his death. Our reporter Wisani Makhubele gave us an update and we also spoke to Eldorado Park Ward Councillor, Peter Rafferty.
Government has allegedly revoked permission for powerships to provide electricity to South Africa. The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) says it has revoked directive granted to Karpowership for activities linked to the emergency generation of electricity. The department verbally approved the request on 26 June 2020. Following receipt of confirmation that all environmental requirements would be met, the directive was confirmed in writing on 6 July 2020. We spoke to Albi Modise- spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries.
SABC Reporter Samkele Maseko interviews ANC'S Deputy Secretary General Jessie Duarte about the outcomes of the ANC's national working committee meeting and other issues affecting the party currently.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has "strongly reprimanded" finance minister Tito Mboweni for his tweets at the weekend criticizing the removal of Zambian Central Bank governor Denny Kalyalya by President Edgar Lungu. Reacting to the news, Mboweni criticized the move and threatened to "mobilize" if not given reasons why Kalyalya had been fired, saying "hell was on its way. We spoke to Dr. Somadoda Fikeni, Political and Policy Analyst.
The Special Tribunal of South Africa has granted an urgent order freezing R38, 7 million held in the bank accounts of 40 Gauteng-based companies involved in the implementation of the contract for the supply and delivery of various Covid-19 Personal Protection Equipment. We spoke to Selby Makgotho, spokesperson for the Special Tribunal of South Africa…
Afriforum's s Private Prosecution Unit has brought a mandamus application against Justice Minister Ronald Lamola to force the Department of Justice to take steps to facilitate mutual legal assistance in the money-laundering & fraud case in which Bridgette Motsepe-Radebe is implicated. Afriforum also gave an update on the Rwanda and the Grace Mugabe cases. Advocate Gerrie Nel says the department of justice has not bothered at all to respond to anything relating to the Botswana money laundering matter. We spoke to Advocate Gerrie Nel and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Justice; Chrispin Phiri.
Former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede has been sworn in as an ANC MPL in the KwaZulu-Natal provincial legislature in Pietermaritzburg despite her ongoing corruption case. This comes months after she was demoted to be an ordinary councillor in eThekwini. Her appointment comes after the corruption case against her and several co-accused was postponed to September. She appeared in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court on charges linked to tender irregularities, valued at R400 million dating back to 2016. Gumede is accused of using her political status to influence the appointment of senior eThekwini personnel responsible for supply chain management, as well as legal matters and human resources. We spoke to Nhlakanipho Ntombela ANC's KZN spokesperson
The organisation; Africa 55 States Forum,has opened a corruption case against the NPA at the Brooklyn police station in pretoria today. The organisation says this is regarding the 9.5 million rand pledged donation by a German Government to the National Directorate of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). The funds are supposedly intended for South Africans to lodge their grievances against misconduct of NPA staff. We spoke to President of the Africa 55 States Forum Dr Charles Sinkala
Chaos erupted at the uMzumbe Magistrate's Court where the two men due to appear today in connection with the murders of at least five women in the uMthwalume on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast. One of the two men has committed suicide in police custody. Police Minister Bheki Cele told a large crowd outside court that it appeared there was insufficient evidence to charge the remaining suspect . We also spoke to our reporter Fanele Mhlongo
The Mangaung Metro is expected to make an announcement over the fate of executive mayor Olly Mlamleli. The metro will hold a special council meeting this afternoon. Mlamleli was voted out last week Friday during a motion of no confidence. Some ANC Councillors voted with opposition parties to oust Mlamleli through a secret vote. Speaker Mxolisi Siyonzana is expected to officially announce the results at about 14h00 this afternoon. The motion comes after the municipality was downgraded twice by Rating Agency Moody's. The municipality was also placed under administration last year. We got an update from our reporter, Ishmael Modiba.
The SABC News has been reliably informed that, the interim provincial committee of the ANC, has resolved to remove mayors, speakers and chief whips in five of the province's municipalities. It is reported that their removal is linked to their failure to carry-out the party's mandate as required. We spoke to our reporter, Parick Dintwa and also got analysis from Prof. Andre Duvenhage, Political Scientist and Professor at the University of the North West.
South Africa could experience load shedding for the next two to three years if urgent steps are not taken to mitigate against energy shortages. This is according to research presented by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The CSIR says load shedding experienced in 2020 has already overtaken 2019 levels. The research group said that heavy load shedding will persist through to 2022, and worse yet, it will likely be three times worse than the load shedding experienced in 2019. We spoke to Dr Jarrad Wright from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research.
City of Johannesburg Housing MMC Mlungisi Mabaso says the City will not tolerate lawlessness. He was responding to the situation that is playing out in Fleurhof, south west of Johannesburg where scores of people have forcefully moved into RDP houses. They say the structures were completed about four years ago but have not been allocated since then....he spoke to us.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) says reports about planes at South African airports forced to perform landings without essential guidance system are misguided and inaccurate. This comes after media reports that Planes at South African airports are forced to perform landings without essential guidance system. SACAA says the ILS is just one of the few landing and take-off techniques that are used- which means that a plane can still land without an ILS. We spoke to Poppy Khoza- CEO of the South African Civil Aviation Authority.
South Africa is in the grip of two pandemics - COVID-19 and gender-based violence. This was the lament from President Cyril Ramaphosa during his virtual address to the nation on Women's Day. Ramaphosa said that the reality for millions of South African women is at odds with the promises contained in the constitution. President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Womens Day that opportunity exists to build a country where women's rights are not negotiable.This year's Women's month commemoration comes at a time when the country is fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 lockdown has witnessed an increase in domestic violence and abuse, leaving women vulnerable and in danger. The impact of the pandemic on society has the potential to reverse progress made on women empowerment and eradicating poverty. We spoke to John Jeffery , the Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Service.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says it has recently been targeted by criminal syndicates and various attempts were made to defraud its system. Its anti-fraud strategy has been continuously tested over the years by criminals. A number of suspects have been arrested in various provinces and their cases are before the courts.We spoke to SASSA spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi.
As the country works towards overcoming the social and economic fallout of COVID-19, government has put in place a comprehensive package of interventions to mitigate the expected impact of COVID-19. It includes measures to support and protect women in our society during these challenging times. We spoke to John Jeffery , the Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Service…
Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality says it has met with Eskom, to discuss the municipality's debt to the power utility. Last month, Eskom attached the bank account of the municipality which owes it more than R5-billion. But later agreed to release some of the money so the Maluti-a-Phofung can meet some of its running costs. We spoke to the municipal manager, Tseko Mothamaha
South Africa has recorded just over 5,000 new infections over the past 24-hour cycle, which brought the number of known cases since March to over 516-thousand. The national death toll stand at 8, 539 after 173 more people have died. The data indicates that the rate at which Covid-19 cases are increasing daily in the country since the beginning of the outbreak in March, is beginning to decline. The number of recoveries currently stands at 358 037 which translates to a recovery rate of 69%.We spoke to Prof. Salim Abdool Karim, Chairperson of the Covid-19 ministerial advisory committee.
Over 100 government cattle belonging to the state were stolen and looted since the start of Covid 19 lockdown at the department of Agriculture's Mara Research Station outside Louis Trichardt. Over 1000 cattles are kept there for research purposes. We spoke to our Reporter, Rudzani Tshivhase.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development has opened criminal cases and suspended a number of high-ranking officials over the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as blankets and soup. We spoke to KZN Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza.
Power Utility Eskom has taken radical steps to recover its money from owing municipalities. Eskom has recently attached the bank account of Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality in the Free State. The Municipality's account is now frozen, funds in the account will be directly transferred to Eskom. Eskom says this is to help them recover a portion of the R5.3 billion owed by the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality, and this step is a result of the repeated failures by the municipality to adhere to its payment obligations to Eskom.We spoke to Eskom's Group Chief Executive- Andre de Ruyter.
Police Minister Bheki Cele released the crime statistics for the last financial year (1/04/2019 - 31/03/2020) "virtually" from Pretoria earlier this morning. Cele says cash-in-transit heists, bank and house robberies have decreased, while violent crimes including murder, rape and robbery increased. The murder rate increased by 1.4-percent, while rape increased by 1.7-percent...We spoke to Dr. Johan Burger, Policing expert at the Institute for Security Studies.
Amabhaca King , Madzikane Diko says that he didn't consult his wife Khusela Diko, who is the spokesperson to president Cyril Ramaphosa when bidding for the Gauteng PPE tender. He says he only informed his wife after he was awarded the tender, and she then expressed discomfort in the matter. He also says that he doesn't regret bidding for the tender. He was speaking to our colleague Blain Herman in response to this matter.
The South African Local Government Association (Salga) in KZN is calling for a review in municipal funding models. Currently urban municipalities with good revenue base (collection) get more funding (in the form of equitable share and infrastructure grants) from the National Treasury compared to rural municipalities who cannot collect rates. This according to rural municipalities exacerbates a gap between urban and rural communities and also makes it difficult for rural municipalities to deal with backlog in the provision of service delivery. We spoke to Sabelo Gwala, Salga's provincial executive officer in KZN.
Throughout bab' Mlangeni's funeral proceedings, we noticed that there has been instances where COVID-19 public gathering regulations were flouted...CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sello Hatang speaks out!
Parliament has called on Finance Minister Tito Mboweni to account for the looting of coronavirus relief funds. The procurement of PPE's is at the centre of corruption allegations - where some companies being used as suppliers are brand new start-ups with no track record. We spoke to Chairperson of Standing Commitee on Finance, Joe Maswanganyi.
Various organisations, political parties and economist say the government has made a massive mistake by seeking the R70 billion Covid-19 emergency funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) . The IMF board yesterday approved the R70 billion support package to help the country weather the economic storm brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.The loan comes with an interest rate of around 1% and much less stringent condition than the IMF usually attaches to its financing, But Duma Gqubule,Economist and founding director at the Centre for Economic Development, says it is huge mistake.
Various organisations, political parties and economists say the government has made a massive mistake by seeking the R70 billion Covid-19 emergency funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) . The IMF board yesterday approved the R70 billion support package to help the country weather the economic storm brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.The loan comes with an interest rate of around 1% and much less stringent condition than the IMF usually attaches to its financing, But the EFF is convinced that this is a huge mistake... we spoke to EFF's Head of presidency- Sinawo Tambo and Economist and founding director at the Centre for Economic Development Duma Gqubule.
KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC, Kwazi Mshengu, says grade 4 learners don’t need sanitary towels. Mshengu was releasing a report of the provincial forensic investigation where over 100-million rand was spent on the supply of sanitary towels. Implicated officials in corrupt activities over the surplus supply of sanitary towels at the KZN schools have been suspended.
KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC, Kwazi Mshengu, says officials - implicated in corrupt activities over a surplus supply of sanitary towels at schools - have been suspended. Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, ordered the forensic investigation in 2018 after two teacher unions raised red flags that over 100-million rand was spent on the supply of sanitary towels. Mshengu was providing a report of the provincial forensic investigation - during a media briefing in Durban. Mshengu also says that he doesn't understand why the sanitary pads were procured for grade 4s as well. According to him, grade 4 learners dont need sanitary towels.
Tribute continue to pour in for Struggle stalwart and the last surviving Rivonia Trialist Andrew Mlangeni. This after the struggle veteran passed away overnight at the age of 95. He was admitted to 1 Military Hospital in Pretoria last night following an abdominal complaint. Mlangeni was the last surviving Rivonia Trialist - who spent more than 20 years on Robben Island after his conviction at the Treason Trial in 1964. As we remember Mlangeni, our reporter Zinziswa Mani, takes a look at his journey.
The World Health Organisation has warned that the high number of COVID-19 cases in South Africa must be taken seriously. WHO's Emergencies Chief, Dr Mike Ryan earlier this week said he is very concerned that there is an acceleration covid-19 in South Africa, he says until recently, South Africa had remained relatively unscathed by the pandemic compared to the rising numbers seen in other parts of the world.Chairperson of the COVID-19 Ministerial Advisory Committee,Professor Salim Abdool Karim shares his views on the rising number of infections in South Africa
A 21-year old mother who was seen on a social media video feeding her two-year old son alcohol and dagga is today appearing before the Dzanani Magistrate's court. The woman was arrested on Saturday with another woman who cheers the child on in the video. The video - which shows two women giving the child a bottle of cider and urging him to finish it, as well as giving him dagga, went viral over the weekend. Police spokesperson Motlafelo Mojapelo says the pair will be charged with contravening the Children's Act. We spoke to our reporter Pimani Baloyi…
The Department of Social Development is discussing a possibility of a universal basic income grant for South Africa's poor. Speaking during a government social cluster briefing on Monday, Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, says the Covid-19 pandemic, had spurred discussions on how the poor will continue accessing support once the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is discontinued. The grant will cover people between the ages of 18-59 and who are falling in-between the cracks. We spoke to the Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu.
The Democratic Alliance has filed an urgent application to interdict Finance Minister Tito Mboweni's authorization of funds for South African Airways' (SAA) restructure using his emergency powers under Section 16 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). This comes after the Department of Public Enterprises confirmed that the government had met the business rescue practitioner's July 15 deadline to provide a letter committing to "support and source funding" for the airline's restructuring needs. The DA's Shadow Minister of Finance, Geordin Hill-Lewis has asked the court for an interim interdict to stop the minister's emergency authorization to use public funds to fully or partly fund the rescue plan pending a review of the decision...he spoke to us.
Students' organisation COSAS in Mpumalanga will today embark on a process to shut down all public schools in the province. This as teachers' unions intensify their call for schools to close down in order to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The Congress of South African Students in Limpopo says it also plans to shut down schools at Seshego outside Polokwane on today. COSAS says it is not satisfied with interventions by the Department of Education in the province at schools. We spoke to our reporters is Mpumalanga and Polokwane, Motsebi Monareng and Katlego Nyoni, respectively.
The Human Rights Commission has come out in support of South African schools staying open and more children returning, saying it supports findings from Unicef that more damage is done to children by not returning. The commission says it had become aware of studies that showed children were suffering more while at home, having lost between 20% and 50% of their scheduled schooling since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. We spoke to Commissioner Andre Gaum, of the South Africa Human Rights Commission.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions says it intends to submit a Section 77 application at Nedlac following the decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa to allow the taxi operators to fill their taxis to full capacity. The Federation is pursuing the Section 77 of the Labour Relations Act which covers a viable protest action to promote or defend socio-economic interests of workers. We spoke to Cosatu's National Spokesperson Sizwe Pamla.
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) has welcomed the commitment by National Treasury that government will support and source funding for a business rescue plan for South African Airways (SAA), which will result in the emergence of a new viable, sustainable, competitive national airline. On Tuesday, 86% of SAA creditors voted in favour of the proposed business rescue plan. A 75% vote was needed for the business rescue plan to be adopted in order to save SAA from going to liquidation. We spoke to Aviation Expert, Linden Birns.
More and more teacher unions are calling for schools to close. They want schooling suspended until after the COVID-19 peak has passed. Over 1,500 pupils and teachers have contracted COVID-19 since schooling resumed. The World Health Organisation has also warned against the re-opening of schools while local transmissions of the coronavirus are on the rise.However,The Council of Education Ministers has hit back, saying only the Cabinet can decide whether schools will stay closed or not. The council said groups and individuals who are not empowered by law do not have the authority to close schools. We spoke to Allen Thomspon, President of the National Teacher's Union (NATU) and got reaction from Elijah Mhlanga, Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education.
SAA and its associated business rescue practitioners are today in a meeting with creditors and employees as the debate surrounding liberation versus liquidation rages on. In the lead-up to today's meeting, the Department of Public Enterprises, led by Minister Pravin Gordhan, has called on both unions and creditors to support the creation of a new national carrier. Today, the business rescue plan - which could cost the South African taxpayer anywhere been R16 billion and R30 billion to save SAA - will be voted on by the national carrier's creditors. If less than 75% of stakeholders vote in favour of the business rescue plan, SAA will be face liquidation, which, if finalised, will result in diminished severance pay-outs…To help us better understand the significance of today's vote, we spoke to Aviation Analyst, Desmond Latham.
Zindzi Mandela, the youngest daughter of South Africa's first black president Nelson Mandela and anti-apartheid activist Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, has died at the age of 59...we spoke to ANC veterant Tokyo Sexwale who pays tribute to her.
Corruption continues to contaminate the Sekhukhune district municipality. In the latest supply chain scandal, some of its employees are under investigation. This is after eight companies were irregularly awarded contracts worth 26 million rand. According to an internal memo seen by SABC News, the service providers were given appointment letters for Covid-19 related water and sanitation projects. We spoke to SABC reporter Mahlako Komane and Spokesperson of Sekhukhune District Municipality Moloko Moloto
Mpumalanga Health Department has suspended two men arrested for being possession of human parts in Elukwatini. They were found with a placenta, leg and knee. It is not clear where the body parts came from. One of the accused is employed at the Ermelo Hospital and the other at Lothair Clinic.We spoke to our reporter Motsebi Monareng ..
INTRO: Parents are de-registering their children from school to avoid paying school fees. While on the other hand, some schools are reporting that parents are defaulting on paying fees because they have lost their jobs. Others are refusing to pay because their children have not been going to school. The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in most learners losing half of the school year and parents questioning why they should continue paying fees. Angela Bolowana compiled this report...
Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga says she is surprised that parents are not rushing to register for home schooling. The minister says she expected that parents would take up this option following the outrage against the decision to open schools. Thousands of learners have gone back to school and more are expected to do so at the end of the month. But parents say home schooling is not viable and provincial departments have also not been helpful. Angela Bolowana reports...
The South African media fraternity is the latest industry to suffer the results of the COVID-19 pandemic with the looming threats of widespread job losses and the closure of a number of publications. Yesterday publisher Media24 announced plans to lay off more than 500 staff members and shut down some of its newspapers and magazines. This comes in the wake of the SABCs planned retrenchment of 600 permanent staff and 1-thousand-200 freelancers as advertising sales plunge and the economic crisis worsens. More than 80 small commercial media houses have already closed shop citing reduced revenue. Sashin Naidoo has the details...
A KZN primary school learner was allegedly raped after she was sent home from school for not wearing a face mask. The incident allegedly occurred on the way home in the Bulwer area. Our Reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe went to the area...
Code 14 qualified truck drivers are calling for the total shutdown of the country, saying government must intervene in the employment of foreign nationals in most sectors for a lower wage. In Eastern Cape alone, there are over 500 qualified truck drivers who are currently unemployed while the industry employs over 90% of foreign truck drivers. Over 1000 truck drivers nationally have downed tools from today in solidarity with the unemployed. We spoke to Eastern Cape Spokesperson from All Trucker Drivers Forum, Michael Masimini and President of Emerging Truckers Association of South Africa (Tasa), Mary Phadi
Hundreds JMPD trainees are disgruntled with the ANC-led government in Joburg and are speaking out against the alleged continued ill-treatment by Public Safety MMC Mally Mokoena. This is after they were allegedly recalled by the MMC stating that they are poorly trained and have been back to the police academy to be retrained. Some see this as the consequence of the ANCs on-going strategy to purge the JMPD of all appointments made during the DA government, replacing them with politically-aligned comrades. These new recruits had been enlisted during the DA's tenure in government and were due to conclude training at the end of 2019. We spoke one of the disgruntled JMPD trainees and one of the new graduates, who asked to remain anonymous. We also spoke to Superintendent Wayne Minnaar, Spokesperson for the Johannesburg Metro Police.
There has been an outcry over an incident in Khayelitsha yesterday where law enforcement officers manhandled a naked man during an anti land invasion operation. We spoke to our Reporter, Thandiswa Mawu and Yonela Diko, head of communications for the Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation who gave more details on the story.
The urgent case brought by Equal Education (EE) and two Limpopo schools to ensure that meals are provided to all nine million learners who would ordinarily benefit from the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), will be heard in the North Gauteng High Court tomorrow. Equal Education and the schools are asking the court for a declaratory order that there is a duty on government to ensure that all learners who qualify to benefit from the National School Nutrition Programme continue to receive these meals, regardless of whether their grades returned to schools….We spoke to Noncedo Madubedube- General Secretary @ Equal Education & Elijah Mhlanga, Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education.
Westbury residents in Johannesburg have called for the deployment of the military after three people were shot and killed in the area in renewed gang violence this past week. They fear for the safety of their children. In the latest incident, Kirsten May, a popular barber in the area, was shot and killed while on his way home with a friend. Maagaketla Mohlabe and Thabile Mbhele compiled this report…
More than 180 learners at the Makaula Senior Secondary School in Mount Frere in the Eastern Cape have tested positive for the corona virus. Teacher Union Sadtu in the Eastern Cape has called on the Provincial Basic Education Department to close all schools in the province saying they're not prepared to deal with corona virus pandemic. We spoke to Eastern Cape's Health Department's spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo...
Thousands of taxi commuters are without transport this morning, following a total shutdown by the SA National Taxi Council - SANTACO. This is in protest against the Covid-19 relief package as announced by Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula on Friday. Mbalula says government has allocated more than one-billion rand to the taxi industry to mitigate the devastating economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The taxi industry says the funding is not enough.Meanwhile, SANTACO Western Cape says it will leave that decision to individual taxi associations and will not be advocating for fare increases as a Provincial Structure. We spoke to Gershwin Geyer, Provincial Spokesperson for SANTACO (South African National Taxi Council) in the Western Cape
The department of public enterprises says it will oppose a court application to have SA Airways placed under provisional liquidation. The department said it was notified of a court application by SA Airlink aimed at interdicting the business rescue practitioners of SAA from convening a creditors' meeting to vote on a business rescue plan for SAA. The application by SA Airlink also seeks to have SAA placed under provisional liquidation….we are now joined by Acting DG @ the Department of Public Enterprises, Kgathatso Thlakudi:
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says it is working on an appeal system for the aggrieved applicants of the R350 social grant. This follows complaints of lack of clarity in the criteria followed by the agency in approving or rejecting applications. Frustrated unemployed South Africans took to social media complaining that they have been declined the grant despite meeting the requirements to qualify. While some applications are still pending - a month after applying, others have been rejected on claims of other sources of income.We spoke to SASSA CEO, Busisiwe Memela-Khambule.
Proceedings are under way in the Palm Ridge Regional Court in Gauteng where seven of the eight suspects arrested for their alleged involvement in the Venda Building Social VBS) Mutual Bank scandal are appearing. One of the suspects remains in quarantine due to the Corona Virus. The arrests were made yesterday nearly two years after after the theft of more than two-billion-rand from the bank was exposed.We got an update from SABC Reporter, Prabashini Naicker
Amid reports of companies stealing Covid-19 payouts meant for workers, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has appointed auditors to "follow the money trail"…we spoke to Makhosonke Buthelezi - Director of Communications and Marketing @ UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund)
Yesterday we covered a story of a Johannesburg mother who gave birth to triplets at the Rahima Moosa hospital who is questioning the alleged mysterious death of 1 of her children . Hilda Mpofu gave birth to triplets (2 girls and 1 boy) at the hospital last week. She was then discharged without her children because they needed extra care. She was later she was told that 1 of her babies had died. Then, a shortwhile later she was told that it is the little boy who didn't make it. To add to her confusion, the hospital later told her that she in fact gave birth to 2 boys and 1 girl, NOT the other way around, and that is it the boy who died, even though according to Hilda's knowledge and initial birth papers she gave birth to 2 girls and 1 boy. She is confused and refuses to accept the body of the baby boy until the hospital explains and proves what exactly transpired.We spoke to Rahima Moosa Hospital CEO. Dr Frew Benson
The Western Cape Education Department says 202 staff members at schools across the province have tested positive for COVID-19 between the 29th of May until the 11th of June. It says 49 learners have also tested positive for the virus since schools reopened on the first of this month. 25 out of one-thousand-500 schools have also been temporarily closed recently due to positive cases.We spoke to Western cape MEC for Education Debbie Schafer.
A Johannesburg mother who gave birth to triplets at the Raheema Moosa hospitals is questioning the death of child at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child hospital. Hilda Mpofu gave birth to triplets (2 girls and 1 boy) at the hospital last week. She was then discharged without her children because they needed extra care. She was later told that it was in fact the baby boy who didn't make it.We spoke to the mother's sister Bongani Mpofu.
As we remember the 44th anniversary of June 16th 1976 today, we reflect on the dangers of diluting the message behind this historical day and caution against telling events of the day from a single narrative…to help us reflect on events of the day, we spoke to Seth Mazibuko, Former Robben Island prisoner and June 16 student uprisings leader.
Despite wide consensus that a nuclear energy build for South Africa is not affordable, the energy department is moving ahead with issuing a request for information for goods and services involved in such a program. South Africa said last month that it plans to expand nuclear capacity within the next five years. The country currently has a single nuclear plant. We spoke to Zizamele Mbambo, Deputy Director General responsible for Nuclear Energy in the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.
The DA's Shadow Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Kevin Mileham, has issued yet another stark warning about the severity of the fuel and diesel shortage currently affecting South Africa. Numerous wholesalers in both Gauteng and the inland regions of South Africa are likely to suffer from the shortage.
The Congress of South African Students in the Western Cape is marching to Khayelitsha to close down schools. The student body is demanding that there should be not learning and teaching until all students and teachers are tested for Covid19. Earlier this morning COSAS Western Cape clashed with the police at Rhodes High School where it claims that there are positive cases. In Free State, COSAS carried out it's theats to continue with the disruption of schools in the province. This is despite the national leadership of COSAS saying they will cease to disrupt schools but will instead meet with the Department of Basic Education to iron out their differences...We spoke to COSAS's Acting Provincial Secretary in the Western Cape Mphumzi Giwu, Tsietsi Mbolekwa, COSAS's Provincial Secretary in the Free State, COSAS National secretary General, Teboho Magafane AND Elijah Mhlanga, Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education.
The Constitutional Court has declared the Electoral Act unconstitutional - meaning independent candidates are allowed to contest for national and provincial elections without being member of a political party. The case was brought by civil society organisation the New Nation Movement and others. Parliament has 24 months to remedy the Electoral Act. Judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga handed down the judgement…
We also spoke to Teresa Conradie, Attorney for the New Nation Movement, Sy Mamabolo, Chief Electoral Officer at the Independent Electoral Commission and Political Analyst, Professor Somadoda Fikeni
There has been a resurgence of gang related violence in some communities around Johannesburg. This is despite a temporary ceasefire that was agreed to by local gangs across the country at the start of the lockdown. In Westbury, Newclare and Riverlea - areas notoriously known for 'gangsterism' and drug peddling - community members say over the last few weeks there has been a number of gang related shooting incidents. Sashin Naidoo visited these communities and complied this report...
South Africans need to adopt a serious behavioral change with regards to the consumption of alcohol, as the world is still grappling with the threat of COVID-19. That's government's message as the country enters the second week after the ban on the sale of alcohol was lifted. This comes amid concerns over the abuse of alcohol last week, which resulted in multiple fatal road crashes. There was also a spike in people admitted to various hospitals' trauma units. Some people were stabbed or shot and assaulted in alcohol-related fights. As Wisani Makhuebele reports, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has warned that the decision to allow the sale of alcohol could be reversed if things get out of control.....
A 14-year-old girl has sustained serious burn wounds on her body, after her mother allegedly poured her with boiling water at Ga-Maja outside Lebowakgomo, Limpopo. It is alleged that the woman who was angry that her daughter had come home late, boiled water in a kettle as she slept then poured it over the girl. She sustained wounds on the chest, stomach, thighs and back. A case has been opened, but it's alleged the woman is on the run. We spoke to our reporter in Limpopo, Shibu Mamokgere....
Afriforum is taking the department of public works to court over sub-standard quarantine sites. Among other things, AfriForum argues that people returning from abroad should have the right to self-isolate however, the state insists that people returning from abroad have to stay in state facilities and there are recurring problems with facilities that do not meet quarantine standards, as well as other issues such as unsatisfactory meals and difficulty for those returning to obtain medical assistance...We spoke to our reporter Prabashini Naicker and Alana Bailey, Head of Cultural Affairs at AfriForum
76 taxi associations in Johannesburg are set to hike fares amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has urged taxi associations to be mindful of the poor when increasing taxi fares. Mbalula has threatened to refer a decision by some Gauteng taxi operators to hike fares by over 100% to the Competition Commission. We spoke to Thabisho Molelekwa - South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) National Spokesperson
A group of SA Express workers this morning marched from Kempton Park to the Union Buildings in Pretoria - to submit a memorandum of requests over the non-payment of their salaries. SA Express employees have not received salaries for March, April and May - and are relying on temporary relief money from the Unemployment Insurance Fund to survive. The state-owned regional airline was placed in provisional liquidation at the end of April. We spoke to our reporter, Amina Accram.
A tailor from the Vaal says she was was asked to produce 25-thousand masks at R13 each in two days- while another procurer asked her to do 100 000 masks for R6. In a message, the tailor raises concerns about the quality of masks that are being procured for schools. For more on this we are joined by the tailor- who has asked to remain anonymous.
8 police officers, including 3 brigadiers and a retired General arrested for alleged fraud and corruption relating to the marking of police vehicles. National police spokesperson Brigadier Vish Naidoo says since 2017 a task team has been conducting a widespread intensive investigation into tender fraud.
The Constitutional Court has dismissed applications for direct leave to appeal against the judgment and order by the High Court in Pretoria. Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) wanted to appeal against the judgment and order by the High Court, interdicting her from enforcing her remedial action contained in a report published by the Public Protector known as the Rogue Unit Report. We spoke to our political reporter, Nomalizo Mandela and Professor Pierre De Vos;Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Constitutional Governance at the University of Cape Town and author of the Blog, Constitutionally Speaking
It's that time again on a Friday when Update At Noon presents another Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, Publishing Editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Sassa CEO Busisiwe Memela- Khambula confirms that only 10 people have been paid the R350 social relief grant so far. She says they are waiting for more than 100 000 others to confirm their banking details so that they can be paid immediately. Memela- Khambula says those with no bank accounts will be paid via their phones.More than 3.5 million people have applied for the new special Covid19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant- within three days of the system going live…
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga's 's optimism regarding the reopening of schools on the 1st of June must be questioned. This is according to a survey by various teacher unions in the country. The unions collectively conducted a survey earlier this week in 9365 schools across the country. The survey reveals that 79% of the respondents report that they have not received regulations on how to deal with health and safety issues, 60% report that their circuit manager has not yet been in touch with them and 92% of respondents report that offices have not yet been cleaned and sanitized. We spoke to SADTU's spokesperson Nomusa Cembi..
Foundation for Human Rights says its extremely concerned about a rising number of human trafficking cases. The Foundation for Human Rights (FHR) says it has received alerts of potential human trafficking incidents during the COVID-19 lock down. South Africa's anti-human trafficking hotline has already revealed that they have received a total of 588 calls at the end of March 2020, compared to the 245 calls during the same period last year. For more details on this story, We spoke to Vulnerable Groups Manager @ the Foundation for Human Rights Sarah Motha,
Since the start of the lockdown, the mortality rate has been on a decline- this is according to the department of Home Affairs. Briefing the parliament's portfolio committee on Home Affairs, the department indicated that they have recorded over 50,000 deaths that are not related to Covid-19 since the lockdown was announced, the lowest in two years. We spoke to Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi...
School Management Teams and teachers are preparing to return to classrooms next week. This comes after Minister Motshekga revealed that schools would re-open to Grade 7 and 12 pupils on first of June. In line with the new directives issued via the Standard Operating Procedures booklet, schools will need to ensure that classrooms are sanitised and daily screening protocols are in place. We spoke to National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa (NAPTOSA)'s Executive Director, Basil Manuel...
The Coronavirus pandemic could claim as many as 40 000 lives when it reaches its peak in South Africa later this year, new modelling data shows. The data was presented by a team of scientific experts and the Department of Health in a closed media briefing last night (19 May). We spoke to Research Associate Professor at the Center for Global Health and Development of the Boston University School of Public Health: Dr Gesine Meyer-Rath,
According to a survey by the Door of Hope, there has been an increase in a number of babies and children who have been abandoned since the start of the nation lockdown. A total of 30 abandoned children were received by different organisations since the start of the lockdown on March 27. We spoke to Operations Manager at the Door of Hope, Nadene Gabham...
Nine Lindela guards arrested in connection with their involvement in the escape of illegal immigrants from Lindela Repatriation Centre are appearing in the Krugersdorp magistrate's court today.They face charges of aiding an escape, 37 people awaiting deportation at the centre escaped when the security guards abandoned their post and knocked off early due to frustration with their management.We spoke to our reporter Chriselda Lewis...
Embattled Lesotho Prime Minister, Thomas Thabane has resigned from office. Finance Minister, Moeketsi Majoro will replace Thabane. The Council of State, the body that advises His Majesty, King Letsie the 3rd approved the proposed changes to parliament. Thabane has been under pressure to resign over a court case in which he and his current wife are suspects in the murder of his former wife, nearly three years ago. For more we are joined on the line by Thabo Thakalekwala, Senior Private Secretary to the now former Prime Minister of Lesotho, Thomas Thabane
Many employees are complaining about not receiving UIF pay-outs due to them by their employers. Despite efforts by the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) which claims to haves processed and paid out corona virus (Covid-19) relief payments of over R8-billion, benefiting about 200-thousand workers, to date. But this is not the situation for employees at a fast food outlet in Park Meadow. He claims his company received UIF Coid19 pay-out but that money has not been passed down to them as employees… We also spoke to Makhosonke Buthelezi, Unemployment Insurance Fund Director: Communications at the Department of Labour,
The Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) says the Social Housing Landlords will continue to provide a housing service, however the non-payment of rentals, will undermine the financial sustainability of the Social Housing Institutions (SHIs). The Communicare Tenants Beneficiary Spokesperson, Neville Peterson, told us about abuses tenants face after from landlords for unable to pay rent. To discuss this matter we spoke to the CEO of Social Housing Regulatory Authority, Rory Gallocher.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that all the members of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department - who were present when a 40-year-old resident of Alexandra in Johannesburg, Collins Khosa was assaulted and died, should be suspended for misconduct. The incident happened last month. Khosa's family had earlier approached the Constitutional Court which dismissed the case because of insufficient evidence. The family then approached the High Court to lodge an urgent application to force the government to intervene and reign in law enforcement's heavy-handedness during the lockdown.
The Electoral Court has postponed by-elections scheduled for June 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The court ruled that the by-elections could be held beyond the 90 day legislated period for the filling of councillor vacancies but not beyond 120 days from the date of the order.We spoke to the Independent Electoral Commission's Deputy Chief Executive, Masego Shiburi
Eskom says it will be restricting electricity supply on a rotational basis in high density areas of the Gauteng province. The power utility says it will target areas, which are overloading and damaging infrastructure through illegal connections. The power utility says it has continued to record a "substantially high" trend of energy demand during peak periods in the mornings and evenings in certain areas of the province. Speaking to my colleage Francis Herd Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha insists that their decision to restrict electricity supply does not amount to load shedding. We also spoke to Energy Analyst and Managing Director at EE Publisher, Chris Yelland,
There have been concerns about the non-responsive of the new SASSA whatsapp number for the special Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress grant. People are venting their frustration on social media that the whatsapp number is not working. Yesterday the Social Development Department launched the special Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress grant for unemployed South Africans. To engage us on few teething problems and to address all your concerns and questions is the CEO of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Busisiwe Memela - Khambula
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has scrapped proof or residence as one of the required documents for the application of the special Covid-19 social relief of distress grant. The portal which will allow unemployed South Africans to apply for the 350- rand relief will go live at midday. Students on NSFAS and those already receiving grants from SASSA, are among those who will not qualify for the grant. The applications will only be through online. SASSA CEO -Busisiwe Memela - Khambula says they've scrapped proof of residence as a requirement because an Identity Number can be linked to a person's proof of address.SASSA has also changed the application WhatsApp number to 082 046 8553. SASSA's Chief Information Officer Abraham Mahlangu explains the application process...
According to research done by University of Stellenbosch , children under 10 are least susceptible to COVID-19 and they should go back to school first. We spoke to Dr. Nic Spaull- Senior Research Fellow at the Research on Socioeconomic Policy (RESEP) group at Stellenbosch University
The SA Democratic Teachers' Union (Sadtu) says it won't allow any of its members to report for duty today because the Department of Basic Education has failed to meet the minimum requirements to ensure level 4 safety during the Covid-19 pandemic. School management teams (SMT) are expected to report for duty at schools across the country to prepare for the proposed return of grade 7 and 12 pupils on 1 June. We spoke to Nkosana Dolopi- Deputy General Secretary for SADTU
Business for SA (B4SA) called for an urgent reopening of SA's economy as it warned that as many as 4-million jobs could be lost due to the Covid-19 crisis, with economic activity taking three to five years before returning to pre-crisis levels. It estimates that between 1-million and 4-million could be lost, with economic activity only reaching pre-lockdown levels in three to five years' time. Even before the Covid-19 outbreak closed down most of the economy, SA was struggling with an unemployment rate of nearly 30%. We spoke to EFF Member of Parliament Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, and Jordan Hill-Lewis, DA Shadow Minister of Finance
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan says government does not want a fire sale of the assets of troubled national airline SAA nor for the carrier to be liquidated.
He told a parliamentary committee that the government was in talks with rescue specialists in charge of state-owned South African Airways (SAA) on how best to save the airline, which entered a form of bankruptcy protection in December. He says government will be meeting with the Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) in the next two days on the restructuring of the airline. LINK: Gordhan has lauded the role played by South African Airways (SAA) staff in efforts to rescue the airline. Gordhan says in discussions with trade unions, they have agreed to take salary cuts of up to 40% to ensure SAA's survival. The Minister briefed the joint Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises and the Select Committee on Public Enterprises and Communications during a virtual joint meeting yesterday evening. We spoke to Chartered accountant and Commentator, Khaya Sithole, SACCA President and Zazi Nsibanyoni-Mugambi
The Basic Education Department has argued that the Polokwane High Court has no jurisdiction to rule over the constitutionality of its Covid-19 Academic Recovery Plan. The Tebeila Institute of Leadership is applying to have the plan declared unconstitutional as it could expose children to contracting the Coronavirus. The department has also argued that the matter should not be heard as an urgent matter, as the plan outlines that learners may only return to school in June. The Institute has counter argued that although the plan was unveiled in Pretoria, the Polokwane High court can rule on it as its implications will affect all South Africans. The Institute also insists that the matter should be ruled upon as urgent. The hearing continues. We spoke to our reporter Pimani Baloyi
The family of a man allegedly killed by the soldiers during the lockdown in Alexander has turned to the High Court in Pretoria after their application for direct access to the constitutional court was dismissed. Collins Khoza died on the 10th of April after SANDF soldiers allegedly assaulted, chocked and slammed his head against the cement wall. Now the family demand financial compensation for the loss of support, trauma, shock and psycological assistance. We spoke to our reporter Phumzile Mlangeni who is in court ....
South African Airways' administrators extended a deadline for workers to agree to severance packages- this comes after, the minister for Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan indicated that he needs time to explore funding options for the bankrupt state-owned carrier. The business-rescue team led by Les Matuson and Siviwe Dongwana are trying to persuade labour groups to sign off on retrenchment deals as a possible alternative to liquidation proceedings, which could see the near 5,000-strong workforce without employment. Meanwhile, Justine Hoppe, Director at Mazars Recovery and Restructuring says being denied the additional R10 billion in funding by the Department of Public Enterprises, made it hard for the SAA's business rescue process to succeed. And she now joins us on the line....
Queues for old age and disability grants formed as earl as 4am this morning . The SA Social Security Agency (SASSA) calls on other beneficiaries not rush to cash their grants today as only old age and disability grants will be paid out tomorrow, while child grants will be paid on Wednesday.Last month President Cyril Ramaphosa announced an increase in grants, and a R350 unemployment grant to alleviate the plight of the vulnerable during the lockdown. We spoke to our reporter Ntebo Mokobo and SASSA CEO Busisiwe Memela...
The National Command Council (NCC) is facing a legal challenge over the role of the country's covid 19. A group of attorneys are arguing that the NCC has effectively displaced constitutional and statutory bodies is overreaching in establishing restrictions for the country...they say clarity is needed around the legality and powers the NCC. We spoke to one of the attorneys challenging the role of the NCC, Advocate Erin Richards...
Managing Executive for Cloud, Hosting & Security at Vodacom Business, Kabelo Makwane says almost as soon as Covid-19 appeared, so did the increase in related cyber-attacks and email scams. Since the WHO declared coronavirus a pandemic, Kaspersky Lab has reported a spike in devices affected by cyber-attacks, from the norm of under 30 000 daily to 310 000 on 18 March in South Africa alone. Makwane says with the financial pressures, many might be tempted to use of pirated software or "free" internet applications and these pirated software carry the risk of hidden malware which might compromise your personal information. We spoke to Managing Executive for Cloud, Hosting & Security at Vodacom Business, Kabelo Makwane...
Department of Basic Education's Director-General Mathanzima Mweli says they are working with the Department of Water and Sanitation to ensure schools have provision of water and sanitation facilities. Mweli says learners and teacher will be provided with personal protective equipment (PPEs) and he further added that social distancing and sanitizing measures will be put in place when learners return to school.
Meanwhile, National Teachers Union (Natu) president Allen Thompson says he does not foresee schools opening in early May, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, as eThekwini district is a "red zone" as a result of the virus was spreading at an alarming rate. We spoke to National Teachers Union (Natu)'s president, Allen Thompson...
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) and the South African Cabin Crew Association say the next 48 hours are crucial to observe regarding SAA. The unions had a meeting with Minister Pravin Gordhan, Labour and Government to try and avoid the liquidation of South African Airways (SAA) and the liquidation of SA Express (SAX) as well as to find the most optimum solution to SAA and SAX's current challenges, ensuring their continued existence and no job losses. We spoke to SACCA President, Zazi Nsibanyoni-Mugambi and Accountant and Commentator Khaya Sithole
The Competition Commission has started to crack down on excessive pricing on essential items during the coronavirus pandemic. Yesterday, the commission yesterday laid charges of excessive pricing against Dis-Chem, with the Competition Tribunal for a maximum penalty after saying that its investigation found that Dis-Chem charged customers excessively for essential hygiene goods during the State of National Disaster. Babelegi Workwear Overall Manufacturers & Industrial Supplies was accused of overcharging for facial masks, by nearly 1 000%. We spoke to Head of Communication at the Competition Commission, Sipho Ngwema....
Minister of Labour and Employment, Thulasi Nxesi, says some companies are not complying with the lockdown legislation and paying their workers government's contributions from the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). Nxesi was briefing the Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour and the Select Committee on Trade and Industry. He says the department has already paid UIF benefits to the tune of one-point-six billion rand, and over 600-thousand workers have benefited. The Minister says about 40-billion rand has been set aside for the scheme. For more on this we're now joined on the line by the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Commissioner, Teboho Maruping
The City of Cape Town's law enforcement officials are monitoring sporadic incidents of looting on the Cape Flats. At least two food truck drivers were injured following sporadic incidents of looting on Monday. There have been over 40 arrests. The city has asked the SANDF to help them deal with the looting incidents. We spoke to Cape Town's mayoral committee member for Safety and Security, JP Smith....
Department of Social Development is currently briefing a joint meeting of the committees dealing with social issues to assess its performance in responding to the challenges brought about by the Covid 19 pandemic as well as the work of SASSA. The briefing is to highlight the programmes put in place, successes and challenges experienced in their implementations. These include food security programmes, gender based violence programmes and services for homeless people. We spoke to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu..
The move to online learning by institutions of higher learning has been met with skepticism especially among students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The University of Free State and the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein alongside other universities are faced with adapting to the new conditions following the nationwide lockdown. Makgala Masiteng reports ...
North West premier Job Mokgoro is visiting Boikhutso and Lydeville Towships near Lichtenburg following the eruption of violent protests. Residents of Lichtenburg torched two vehicles including a police van after they ran over two children to death yesterday.
The Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) yesterday called on the government to give South Africans above 18 years a once-off "universal basic income" of R4 500 as part of an emergency rescue package in response to the economic impact of COVID-19. The institute says President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration needs to unveil a R310 billion rescue package. This was just before President Cyril Ramaphosa announced Covid 19 social relief measures for the unemployed and increases for grant beneficiaries. We spoke to Co-Director at the Institute for Economic Justice and School of Economics and Finance, University of the Witwatersrand, Dr Gilad Isaacs...
ANC councillors in Thaba-Nchu in the Free State have criticized the quality of food parcels distributed in the area. The councillors have expressed their disappointment against Mangaung Metro executive mayor, Olly Mlamleli. They say the food parcels distributed amongst residents are of poor quality. But, Mlamleli has defended herself, and believes the councillors want to tarnish her image. Ishmael Modiba reports...
We also spoke to Administrator of Mangaung Metro Municipality Advocate Mzwake Mofokeng...
Statistics SA says the Covid 19 pandemic has created profound disruptions to our economy and society. Stats SA released survey results on the impact of Covid 19 on South African Businesses, today. It says many South African industries are experiencing an adverse impact from the pandemic. According to the survey; Four in ten businesses feel that they cannot continue to operate. We spoke to Statistician General Risenga Maluleke..
SA Express employees have been without an income for the past four weeks of the lockdown- this comes after the airline failed to pay their salaries for the month of March. The financial situation at the airline, whose flight routes typically service South Africa's smaller cities and neighbouring countries, has deteriorated further as it has suspended flight operations due to the shutdown. SA Express is in business rescue and there are speculations that the rescue practitioners want to liquidate the airline because it has no reasonable prospects of being restructured.We spoke to an employee at SA Express, Papa Mollo...
City of Cape Town has been ordered by the High Court to return building material to community evicted over Easter. The High Court in Cape Town has ruled that the eviction of informal dwellers at Empolweni informal settlement in Khayelitsha was unlawful.This after over a hundred dwellers were evicted from the settlement over the Easter weekend.We spoke to Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements in the City of Cape Town, Malusi Booi....
Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel has asked business group Sakeliga for more time to get legal advice. This comes as business group Sakeliga is threatening court action over the ban on the sale of prepared and cooked food. The organisation gave gave the minister Patel until 9am this morning to respond, but the minister has now asked to be given at least until Wednesday. Minister Patel said that no one was allowed to sell these types of prepared foods during the lockdown. However, the organisation says this is illegal. We spoke to Sakeliga's legal analyst Daniel du Plessis...
The South African Sentence and Awaiting Trial Prisoners Organisation (SASAPO) has confirmed that prisoners have embarked on a hunger strike, following the alleged contravention of their rights during the lockdown. The organisation says the inmates are very frustrated, with certain rules and fear that their safety have been compromised. This comes after, some officials at East London Correctional Centre tested positive for the COVID19. We spoke to South African Sentence and Awaiting Trial Prisoners Organisation (SASAPO) president, Phindile Zweni and Department of Correctional Services Spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo.
A new 40km fence that has been partially erected at the Beitbridge border post as one of the emergency measures that the government is implementing to mitigate the spread of corona virus in SA was vandalised over the Easter weekend and metal poles stolen. The 1.8m-high fence which will span 20km on each side of the border post, separating SA from Zimbabwe is said to cost 37.2 million rand. Public works minister Patricia de Lille has confirmed that there will be an investigation...
The Democratic Alliance (DA) says if the the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is unable to cope with processing and paying out a high volume of Covid-19 Ters benefit applications, then this function should be handed over to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). This comes as number of people took to twitter and other platforms to voice their frustrations over the process and red tape involved in claiming from the UIF's Covid-19 Temporary Employer-Employee Scheme (Ters). We spoke to DA Shadow Minister of Employment and Labour, Dr Michael Cardo..
Business for South Africa's Health Workgroup estimates that the country has about a month's worth of sterile gloves, surgical masks and other personal protective equipment left. Head of Business for South Africa's Health Workgroup Stavros Nicolaou, has warned that the country has about four weeks' worth of stock left for front line medical staff and other essential health workers.
The South African Cemeteries Association (SACA) says municipalities need to prepare for a possible increase in the demand for burials and cremations - should there be a spike in the number of COVID-19 deaths. The association says ideally remains should be cremated as is advised by the health authorities locally and internationally, however SACA says this may pose a challenge as South Africa has very few crematorium facilities. We spoke to South African Cemeteries Association (SACA)'s chairperson, Pepe Dass.
Education Expert Professor Jonathan Jansen says that the 2020 academic year is over due to Covid 19 . Professor Jansen suggests that schools must pass scholars from grade 1 to grade 11 with catch up plan in place. For Matric, schools need to work with universities and colleges to bridge the gap.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says it has a solution to temporary disability grants which lapsed or expired in March 2020. The agency says it will provide social relief in the form of food parcels to the affected beneficiaries. We spoke to SASSA CEO, Busisiwe Memela...
South Africa has urged China to investigate reports that African nationals in the country have been subject to forced corona virus testing, forced quarantine measures and other forms of ill-treatment. Last night our colleague, Chriselda Lewis spoke to a South African in Guangzhou, China, who is affected by this. She says she is one of those who has been kicked out of her apartment. We also spoke to a journalist based in China, Zanele Buthelezi
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the South African Reserve Bank has decided to cut the repo rate by 100 basis points. This follows calls that the Reserve Bank needs to do more to support the economy. We spoke to Dr Azar Jammine, Director and Chief Economist at Econometrix...
The Department of Basic Education says it is considering a number of options to help salvage the 2020 schooling year. South Africa's schools were closed on 18th of March as part of the measures to try and stop the spread of the coronavirus before the lockdown and schools were to resume again on the 14th of April 2020. Here is the Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga and Africa Teen Geeks Founder, Lindiwe Matlali on the online reading campaign run by Africa Teen Geeks.
Some villages in the Collins Chabane municipality have been without water for years. Residents at Masakona village are contributing money to resuscitate a borehole that has not been operating for years. The local chief has warned that those who do not contribute to the fund will not be allowed to draw water from the borehole. Earlier Collins Chabane Local municipality Spokesperson, Isaack Nokeri says the municipality is not obliged to provide water ...
A father and his three year old child have died in a fire at the Good Hope informal settlement near Germiston, East of Johannesburg. Firefighters of the Ekurhuleni Emergency Services managed to contain the blaze, whereafter the two bodies were found. Meanwhile in a fifty-year-old man has also died after his flat caught fire on Durban's North Beach. One other person who was also in the flat sustained injuries. SABC reporters Ditaba Tsotsetsi and Mlondi Radebe elaborate respectively...
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has opened a case against TV and radio personality Somizi Mhlongo at the Sandton police station North of Johannesburg. Minister Mbalula says this is in contravention of the government lockdown regulations regarding misinformation and name dropping. In an Instagram Live video by Metro FM radio host Deneo Ranaka, Mhlongo was heard saying the lockdown would be extended and that Mbalula told him it would. The video of the conversation is currently doing the rounds on social media. It was shared widely just a few hours before President Cyril Ramaphosa officially announced the two-week extension of the national lockdown...
A Brakfontein community outside Delmas in Mpumalanga is devastated following the non delivery of water to their village for the past three weeks. The community relies on the municipality to supply them with water through water tankers. Residents says they had to survive by harvesting rain water in that period which has also ran out. The Covid - 19 Lockdown has also added to their misery as their movements are restricted. For more we are joined on the line by Thabitha Matladi, Municipal Manager at the Victor Khanye Local Municipality
The South African Local Government Association (Salga) says it is disappointed about the reports of some Councillors are acting in direct contravention of the Regulations issued in terms of the Disaster Management Act. Salga says it condemns the unlawful and criminal behaviour and has called upon the municipalities to urgently initiate proceedings against the said Councillors, who are found to be in breach of the Code of Conduct for Councillors. We spoke to Polokwane Executive Mayor and President of the South African Local Government Association (Salga), Thembi Nkadimeng....
Yet another school has been set alight in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria; Soshanguve High school. Four schools have been burnt in the area in the past three weeks. The Gauteng Education Department said that the administration block had been razed to the ground after the roof caved in. Police are still investigating what caused Wednesday morning's blaze. We spoke to Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi...
The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has apologized for breaking lock-down regulations. This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa placed her on special leave for two months - one month of which will be unpaid. The presidency issued a statement earlier today saying the President has accepted her apology for the violation but was unmoved by mitigating factors she tendered.
Researchers from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and the University of the Western Cape's (UWC) South African National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI) have sequenced the first SARS-COV-2 genome, which could help contain the spread of corona virus. SANBI researcher and co-author of the new report presenting the sequence Peter van Heusden says finding the "fingerprint" of a virus could allow one to understand how it spreads.
Some members of the public are unwilling or refusing to be tested for the corona virus because of fake news reports that the swabs are contaminated. According to the Gauteng Health Department, this has hampered the country's efforts to curb the spread of the fatal respiratory illness. We spoke to Gauteng Health MEC Dr Bandile Masuku...
Police Minister Bheki Cele says there's been a decrease in serious crimes. He says incidents of murder, rape, assault, hijackings, business and house robberies have gone down compared to the same time last year. Murder cases have dropped from 326 to 94; rape cases from 699 to 101; cases of assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm dropped from 2 673 to 456; and business and house robberies dropped from 8 853 to 2 098.
Some refugees who are still living on the streets around the Central Police Station and the District Six Museum say they are pleading with the authorities to take them to a safe and humane space during the lock-down. They are currently sheltering in makeshift plastic tents, as Cape Town experiences rain. Mercedes Besent has more...
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has accused the Limpopo Health Department of not adhering to the conditions of the national protocol for those who test positive for the corona virus. SAMA is expected to approach the High Court in Polokwane today, to make an urgent application against the Department - following the isolation of the two doctors at a medical facility, allegedly against their will. The two were asymptomatic and had been self-isolating at home after testing positive. However, the doctors were taken to a hospital last Thursday, allegedly on the instruction of MEC, Phophi Ramathuba. We spoke to Chairperson of the South African Medical Association Dr Angelique Coetzee
The SA Drug Policy Initiative (SADPI) says the decision to ban the sale alcohol and tobacco during the national lock-down should be reversed as soon as possible. SADPI says although the decision to ban the sale of alcohol and tobacco during the lock-down period was made with the best intentions, there are reasons why it is not a good idea. We spoke to the founder of the SA Drug Policy Initiative, Dr Keith Scott…
South Africans are concerned about health workers who will be deployed to do home testing for Covid 19. South Africans fear that criminals will also use this as an opportunity to enter their homes. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Monday that provinces that have been identified as coronavirus hotspots will be prioritised as the government ramps up its fight against the virus.More than 10,000 health workers who will be deployed by the government to do screening and testing in people's homes will mostly be deployed in townships in Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. We spoke to Dr Yogan Pillay - Deputy Director-General at Department of Health...
The National Taxi Alliance says it waiting for more clarity on the taxi industry's role during the lock-down period. They are also worried about loss of income due to social distancing regulations which will reduce passenger capacity. The taxi alliance also says that they should be considered for a 3 month holiday payment like other businesses. We spoke to spokesperson of the National Taxi Alliance Theo Malele...
Traffic volumes are expected to increase on the N1 to Limpopo today with motorists planning to escape the lock-down in Gauteng. Most people prefer to be home before Thursday fearing that they will be restricted from being with families during the Easter holidays. This, despite the warning by the MEC of Health in Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba that should the virus reach remote villages, it will be difficult to contain. We spoke to MEC of Health in Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba...
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) says it supports the measures announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to contain the spread of corona virus in the country. SAMA says in addition to the strategies already announced, two additional steps are needed. Firstly, the Association says it is imperative that the areas - not just the provinces - of the identified cases be made known. And secondly, additional strategy is to give priority consideration to telemedicine. We spoke to Chairperson of the South African Medical Association Dr Angelique Coetzee
Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi says workers can apply for leave using the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Nxesi says they are negotiating for special leave conditions for those who fall ill during work......
Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane says tourists who entered the country since the 09th of March have been place under quarantine for 14 days...
Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza says the department has set aside 1.2 billion to address the effects of the corona virus, post the pandemic. Didiza says the country has sufficient food supply- hence there is no need to panic buy.....
Trade and Industry minister, Ebrahim Patel has highlighted various financial relief plans to assist South African citizens and business owners during this time. Patel says the Competition Commission is investigating eleven companies for allegedly hiking the prices of products - such as face masks, gloves and hand sanitizes - amid the corona virus outbreak. Patel says those who take advantage of the public by raising the prices of items will be issued fines, penalties and even jail time. The National Consumer Commission has also established a toll free hotline ( 0800 014 880 ) for consumers to continue reporting unjustified price increases for basic goods.
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize says South Africa is learning from countries such as China in dealing with the virus. He also says many people may be tempted to travel home to rural areas in the next 24 hours before the lock-down, but he is confident that many South Africans will adhere to the lock-down regulations....
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize has announced that the number of corona virus cases in South Africa has risen to 554. President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a three week national lock-down, starting at midnight on Thursday, to help stem the spread of the corona virus. There are over 370-thousand confirmed Covid 19 cases across the globe - with over 16-thousand deaths linked to the virus. Addressing the media in Pretoria, Mkhize says the number of infections are expected to rise in the country...
As churches scale down services due to the corona virus, some are taking advantage of technology to reach their members. Government has issued guidelines prohibiting public gatherings of more than 100 people at a time. Tshepo Phagane visited Soweto to check how churches are dealing with the new regulations, what measures they've put in place to deal with the virus, and how they ensure they keep worshiping with the cancellation of some services. Vice-president of the National Funeral Directors' Association, Lawrence Konyana says they are treating each body as a potential case of COVID19. Konyana says they are also trying to discourage families from coming into the funeral parlous to wash the body of the deceased person as is common practice in most traditions and cultures.
A group of South Africans who are stranded in Morocco following the global outbreak of Covid-19 and the subsequent banning of all international flights to and from Morocco last week are appealing for assistance from the South African Government. Unlike other countries who gave tourists more time to make alternative arrangements, the complete airspace closure in Morocco was immediate. We spoke to the Spokesperson of the group in Morocco, James De Wet and Spokesperson of the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Lunga Ngqengelele
MTN South Africa has announced that it will reduce the tariffs of its monthly data bundles of 1GB and below by between 25-50 per cent while the 1GB monthly bundle will decrease by 33 per cent to R99 with effect from next month. MTN made the announcement at a briefing held at its headquarters in Johannesburg, joined by minister of communications and digital technologies Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams. After two year of investigation, the Competition Commission released its data services market inquiry report in December last year. The report said MTN and Vodacom had to independently reach an agreement with the regulator on substantially reducing data prices within two months of the release of the report.We spoke to MTN SA's Executive for Corporate Affairs, Jacqui O'Sullivan….
The South African Music Rights organisation "SAMRO is appealing to financial institutions and landlords to save local artists amid Covid 19. SAMRO says most of its members have two major income streams including royalties collected by SAMRO and also rely on income from events which are now all being cancelled. SAMRO says many artist will instinctively turn to them for financial bail outs. The financial pressure that it cannot bear. call upon all the broadcasters to go beyond their mandates and play more locally produced music which will help, in some way, to offset lost earnings from shows and events. We spoke to Samro's Chairperson Nicholas Maweni...
Events Planners in the country are some of the hardest affected by the gathering restrictions since the president's speech declaring Covid 19 a national disaster, many of them have received cancellations of their services after clients have had to cancel events, We spoke to a young entrepreneur and events planner in Johannesburg Lesego Dibodu...
The South African Airways (SAA) has cancelled a total of 162 flights. Of these, 38 are international and 124 are regional (destinations on the African continent) flights. This will be in place between 17th of March until 31st March 2020. We spoke to SAA spokesperson, Tlali Tlali...
The number of corona virus cases in South Africa have risen to 116.There's an increase of local transmissions. To date at least 14 people with no travel history have tested positive with the viral infection. To implement social distancing measures and help curb the spread of the virus within the country, social gatherings of more than 100 people have been prohibited. Large-scale celebrations of national days have also been cancelled. For more on how social gatherings such as upcoming funerals and weddings will be controlled, We spoke to Minister of Sports Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa…
Emfuleni municipality will pay Eskom R 50 million before end of business day today. MEC for Human Settlements, Urban Planning and CoGTA Lebogang Maile, and Mayors from all municipalities in Gauteng, held bilateral meeting with Eskom's CEO André de Ruyter to discuss electricity challenges experienced by municipalities and debts owed to Eskom by municipalities among other issues. We spoke to Eskom's CEO André de Ruyter....
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says safety measures have been greatly intensified at airlines.
Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi says the closure of some of the ports of entry in the country will have no impact on commerce. He says controls are being placed on human movement and not goods entry. He also says the Beitbridge border post will remain open because it is the only border to Zimbabwe and is the gateway for South Africa to the rest of the continent.
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma says the declaration of a National State of Disaster due to COVID 19 will have huge implications for the Independent Electoral System. Dlamini-Zuma says the way which we are currently dealing with elections needs to change.
Minister of Trade and Industry, Ebrahim Patel says they are meeting with business and labour later today to chart a way forward....
Finance Minister, Tito Mboweni says funds have been set aside to deal with the virus, and we will have to spend more going forward....
The Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga says they will be losing 10 schooling days and that should the closures continue beyond the stipulated time- the dapartment might have to extend the schooling year...
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Blade Nzimande says there is an agreement in place that contact lectures have to be limited at the institutions of higher learning. However, they are yet issued a directive for universities to shutdown...
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize has retracted earlier reports of a corona virus case in the Free State reducing the number of people infected in the country from 17 to 16. He has also announced that the 14 Limpopo students who returned from China recently have all tested negative for the virus. Mkhize was speaking at the Ranch Hotel and Resort during a joint media briefing of the inter-ministerial team on the coronavirus . He also announced the Ranch Hotel and Resort as an official quarantine area for 121 South African who are been repatriated from China by the SANDF. Rudzani Tshivhase reports.We also spoke to our reporter Katlego Nyoni
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has filed an urgent application to the North Gauteng High Court to review the dissolution of the Tshwane Council. This follows a decision by the Premier of Gauteng, David Makhura to dissolve the Tshwane Council and place the Capital City under administration. We spoke to DA's Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, Mike Moriarty...
The Goodall family from Eldorado Park in the south of Johannesburg, says they are devastated after losing three young children. The children, aged between six and eleven all from one family, died on their way to school on Wednesday morning when the vehicle they were travelling in collided with a minibus taxi. The accident on the Golden Highway claimed twelve lives and left ten others seriously injured. An emotional memorial service was held at the scene of the accident. Prabashini Moodley reports...
King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo has been arrested at the Bumbane Great Place outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. This after an alleged attack on the palace in the early hours of today. His son and acting king, Prince Azenathi is believed to be among those assaulted. The king was put in a police van in full view of his subjects who had responded to the alarm. King Dalindyebo was released on parole in December last year after spending four years at the East London correctional facility. We spoke to our reporter in the Eastern Cape Nkululeko Nyembezi...
Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu has reassured South Africans that government is doing everything they can to ensure the safety of South Africans regarding the corona virus. Mthembu has also sent wishes to the South African repatriation team sent to Wuhan city, China, to repatriate more than 100 South Africans who want to return home, that team is expected to arrive back in the country tomorrow, Friday 13 March 2020. Here is Minister Mthembu briefing the media…
The DA in Gauteng is calling on Gauteng COGTA MEC Lebogang Maile to dissolve the Emfuleni local municipality in the Vaal. Municipal property including vehicles and furniture have been attached, as it owes Eskom 2.3 billion rand. In 2018 Gauteng Premier David Makhura announced that the municipality would be placed under administration but then Emfuleni mayor Jacob Khawe disputed this. Maile says the seizure of assets will have a serious effect on service delivery and he is planning to meet both Eskom and municipality management on this. We spoke to MEC Maile
The High Court in Pretoria has found that President Cyril Ramaphosa was not obliged to disclose to parliament donations to his CR17 campaign donations. As there was no evidence that Ramaphosa financially benefited from campaign in his personal capacity. The case was brought before the court by President Cyril Ramaphosa, for a judicial review of Mkhwebane's report into the funding of his 2017 ANC presidential election campaign. We spoke to Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Constitutional Governance at the University of Cape Town, Professor Pierre De Vos and Political Analyst, Lukhono Mguni...
Some of the 16 Capricorn TVET students who returned from China on Friday have denied being tested for the Coronavirus and quarantined prior to flying back to South Africa. The Limpopo Health Department earlier said the students had tested negative for COVID-19 and that there was no need to quarantine them in a state facility. The 16 are among the 29 students from three TVET colleges across the country who have completed a two-year construction internship in China. One of them who has opted to remain anonymous however says she's worried that they might have been exposed to the virus while they were travelling through three busy airports.We spoke to our reporter in Limpopo, Pimani Baloyi and Health MEC in Limpopo on the line, Dr Phophi Ramathuba
Tracing teams searching for people who may have come into contact with South Africa's first officially diagnosed COVID-19 patient are expected to have arrived in KwaZulu-Natal. The man is in self isolation with his family in Durban. The health department, with the help of home affairs, is tracking down travellers who went through the Beit Bridge border post without being screened. We spoke to Deputy Director responsible for procurement of medicines in the public health sector, Dr Anban Pillay..
There are reports that the members of the South African Defence Force (SANDF) are refusing to be deployed on a mission to repatriate South Africans from the Chinese city of Wuhan following the outbreak of the Coronavirus. The SANDF has been tasked with returning the 184 South Africans from Wuhan city which is the epicentre of the outbreak of the Coronavirus. We spoke to the Spokesperson for the Department of Defence and Military Veterans, Simpiwe Dlamini...
The Gauteng government has placed the City of Tshwane under administration. Premier David Makhura made the announcement this morning (Thursday 5 March) at the provincial legislature in Johannesburg. The decision comes as the City of Tshwane is currently facing a leadership crisis following the resignation of Mayor Stevens Mokgalapa last month. The entire executive which served under Mayor Mokgalapa was also dissolved during his resignation. Sashin Naidoo reports...
The University of Fort Hare has instructed students o leave campus and vacate their rooms in all university-owned and leased residences with all their belongings and return home. This follows a two week long protest over students who are not able to register due to historic debt.We spoke to SRC premier at Fort Hare university's Alice Campus, Zenathi Mbenya and Spokesperson for the university of Fort Hare, Khotso Moabi.
Learners in Tlakgameng village near Ganyesa in North West have not been to school since the opening of schools in January. Community members in the area have been restricting learners from attending school, in order to pressure government to address their service delivery needs, particulalry roads. We spoke to our reporter Mpho Lepedi who visited the area...
A Grade 3 learner from the Tsholetsang Primary School in Bloemfontein has died after allegedly eating a poisonous substance at the school. The eight-year-old died at a local clinic. Six learners have been admitted to the Pelonomi Hospital. Two of the learners are in the ICU and four are in the general ward. We spoke to Howard Ndaba, spokesperson of the Department of Education in the Free State..
Members of Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts, SCOPA, have heard that the Public Works and Infrastructure Department had resorted to getting cleaning staff to process invoices by service providers. Officials from the department briefed MPs on their 2018/19 annual report. The report states that that 11-thousand invoices were not paid within the stipulated 30 days. The Cape Town office has the highest number of unpaid invoices because the department relied on cleaning staff for invoices. Zalene Merrington has more ...
President of Black Business Council (BBC) Sandile Zungu says South Africa is in a crisis and turbulent times. Speaking at the opening of the 2020 Black Business Council Summit underway in Midrand, Johannesburg. He says the current political leadership should be honest and decisive. Zungu also lashed out at the notion that Black economic ownership equals corruption in the minds of many South Africans. We spoke to President of Black Business Council Sandile Zungu
The inter-ministerial task team, chaired by Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma appeared before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) for a briefing on the Eskom Debt. Following the briefing by the committee, SCOPA resolved to call Eskom, the Minister of Finance, Salga and other stakeholders who owe Eskom in order to come up with a solution on how they will go about settling the Eskom debt. We spoke to Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) Chairperson, Mkhuleko Hlengwa....
A private security in KwaZulu Natal, Reaction Unit South Africa says in the past ten days they found at least eight bodies in and around Verulam, north of Durban. Reaction Unit South Africa says yesterday an unidentified body of a man with multiple gunshot wounds was discovered at Ndwedwe, while the remains of a severely burnt body was found along the M25, near KwaMashu. The private security company says most of the victims were found with gunshot wounds, bound, gagged and burnt. We spoke to Prem Balram, spokesperson for Reaction Unit South Africa...
Statistics South Africa has just revealed that South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 1.4% in the fourth quarter of 2019, following a revised 0.8% contraction in the third quarter. The impact of load shedding, which the power utility says is likely to remain for approximately the next year and a half is suspected to have severely impacted productivity in the already ailing economy among other issues. We spoke to Dr Azar Jammine- Economist at Econometrix
The World Health Organisation in Africa has called on communities to look out for information on how to deal with the outbreak of corona virus in their areas. It says they should be well informed on the virus in order to curb misinformation. The United Nations health agency says it has been assessing the continent's preparedness to deal with the virus and making public awareness its priority. Cases have been confirmed in Egypt, Nigeria and Algeria. Zandile Myeza compiled this report ...
Tax Justice South Africa addresses what they call the devastating impact of illicit trade on South Africa's economy. Experts from the South African revenue Services, Tax Justice South Africa and the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa have joined hands to combat illicit trade in the country- We spoke to Gwarega Mangozhe, CEO of the Consumer Goods Council of SA.
The Estate Agency Affairs Board of South Africa (EAAB) has launched a full-scale investigation into one of South Africa's top estate agencies (Pam Golding). The Estate Agency Affairs Board says the estate agency contravened financial regulatory laws when facilitating the sale of property to the children of former Mozambican President Armando Guebuza without following legal requirements and thus allegedly aided money laundering. We spoke to Estate Agency Affairs Board of South Africa's CEO, Mamodupi Mohlala...
The trial of Pastor Timothy Omotoso continues at the Port Elizabeth High Court. Defence advocate, Peter Daubermann has highlighted what he calls a significant number of inconsistencies, in the written testimony of first witness, Andisiwe Dike. He asked to consult with the police officer who took the statement, saying he wouldn't be able to cross examine Dike till that happens. We spoke to our reporter Veronica Fourie...
The murder trial of a man accused of killing University of Johannesburg student Palesa Madiba six years ago has been transferred to the Gauteng High Court. The case was transferred from the Protea Regional Court in Soweto. Dumisani Mkhwanazi, 36, is expected to face charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice in the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg. Mkhwanazi was arrested on July 29 following the discovery of Madiba's skeletal remains in a shallow grave in his parents' yard.Her remains were found on December 16, 2015, after the police received an anonymous tip-off. Mkhwanazi was allegedly in hiding in Protea after he had learned the police were looking for him. We spoke to our reporter Horisani Sithole...
About 15 people have died so far and many others injured after a bus transporting passengers from Centane to Butterworth in the Eastern Cape crashed near Thafalofefe Hospital earlier today. The passengers, mostly pensioners, were on their way to shop in Butterwoth. The bus was travelling from the Mazeppa Bay area. We spoke to Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson, Unathi Binqose...
A large number of EFF members and the party's leaders are continuing to converge at the Innesfree Park, Sandton in preparation for the march to Eskom headquarters in SunningHill later this afternoon. The march is against loadshedding and privatisation. Sakina Kamwendo's Update at Noon spoke to our reporter Abongile Dumako
Two South African citizens working on a Japanese cruise ship have tested positive for the Covid-19 virus, known as the coronavirus. The health ministry says government has been made aware by Japanese authorities through the South African embassy in Tokyo, that there were 12 South African crew members working on board the Diamond Princess Cruise Ship when it was affected by the virus. Update at Noon's Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Health Department's spokesperson, Dr Lwazi Manzi...
Sakina Kamwendo broadcasting live from Cape Town ahead of Finance Minister Tito Mboweni’s Budget Speech
The small town of Herbertsdale, near Mossel Ba,y in the Southern Cape has over the last couple of years seen a disturbing increase in drug abuse among its youth. To pay for the drugs, the addicts have started stealing from houses, businesses and farms. Tanya Krause reports...
Lesotho's Prime Minister Tom Thabane is appearing before the Maseru Magistrate's Court to face murder charges. Thabane is being accused, alongside his wife Maesaiah - of plotting to kill his then estranged wife Lipolelo in 2017. The Prime minister was scheduled to be in court on Friday but skipped the appearance to see a doctor in Pretoria. We speak to our correspondent in Lesotho, Rapelang Radebe...
The East London Magistrate's Court has issued a warrant of arrest for EFF leader Julius Malema for failing to appear in court. Malema and co-accused Adrian Snyman were a no show in court today where they were due to appear on five counts of discharging a firearm in public. Malema allegedly discharged a rifle during the EFF's fifth anniversary celebrations at the Sisa Dukashe stadium in Mdantsane in 2018. The execution of the warrant has been stayed until the 8th of May, when Malema is due to appear in court again. We speak to our reporter in East London, Xolani Sitshinga...
Murder accused Yolanda Nogemane is today appearing at the Alice Magsitrates Court, for the alleged murder of another student Yonela Boli. The case was postponed last week to give investigating officer time to verify the accused's second address. University of Fort Hare students are expected to picket outside court calling for justice. We spoke to our reporter Abongile Jantjies...
A car-safety organisation Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) has revealed a double-standards when it comes to car safety levels in Africa. This follows a shocking crash test that proved an SA-made bakkie's safety performance is vastly inferior to that of a five-year-old European version of the vehicle. In this instancea a locally built 2018 Nissan NP300 Hardbodyhad failed in a crash test against a second-hand 2015 Euro-spec Nissan Navara NP300. The global safety authority says the difference in safety performance between the two bakkies "is a matter of life and death".We spoke to the spokesperson of Automobile Association of SA, Lyton Beard
Former South African Airways (SAA) board chairperson, Dudu Myeni is back at the High court in Pretoria. Myeni is on the stand to give testimony in a case that was brought before the court by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) and South African Airways Pilots' Association (SAAPA) asking the court to declare her unfit, citing that Myeni had put the airliner into financial chaos during her six year term as board chairperson. We spoke to our reporter, Leila Magnus..
Chaos broke out earlier at the Goodwood Magistrate's Court in Cape Town, ahead of an appearance by a 54-year-old man in connection with the murder of 8-year-old Tazne van Wyk. The man was arrested on Tuesday in Cradock in the Eastern Cape- when he was being transported back to Cape Town, he led the police to Van Wyk's body in a storm water pipe on the N1 near Worcester. We spoke to our reporter Thandiswa Mawu...
About 50 learners from the Lofentse Girls High School in Soweto have been hospitalized. The learners complained of stomach cramps and vomited after eating cakes suspected to contain a poisonous substance. Other learners were hospitalized today. Police are investigating an incident. Parents have been arriving at the school this morning to demand an explanation. We spoke our reporter Tshepo Phagane who visited the Soweto school
Eskom says its going ahead with its plan to switch off power to the cash-strapped Letsemeng Municipality in the Free State. The power utility says the municipality which incorporates towns such as Oppermansgronde, Koffiefontein, Petrusburg, Jacobsdal and Luckhoff, has failed to honour its payment arrangement of 5.4 million rand. Thabiso Radebe reports.. We also speak to Letsemeng local Municipality's Municipal Manager, Lucas Mkhwane...
EFF leader Julius Malema's wife Mantoa Matlala is suing ANC MP, Boy Mamabolo an amout of one million rand following his utterances about her during the State of the Nation Address last week. In a letter sent to Mamabolo by Matlala's lawyers, it's stated that he made defamatory statements against her - where Mamabolo claimed that Malema abused his wife. We spoke to our reporter, Abongile Dumako..
Six weeks into the 2020 academic year- learners at Reitumetse High School at Kgobokwane village in Limpopo are still to start schooling. Learners who were doing Grade 11 in 2019, are demanding to be promoted to grade 12 after they all failed last year. They say it's not their fault that they did not have teachers in four subjects. We spoke to our reporter, Rudzani Tshivhase...
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa-Prasa says it's working on restoring some of its networks that had to be closed due to vandalism and theft. This includes the rail lines between Mabopane and Pretoria and the central line in Cape Town. PRASA Administrator Bongisizwe Mpondo says they hope to be back in service by April next year. Prasa executive was engaging with passengers in Dube, Soweto about their train Service. Horisani Sithole reports....
The Shosholoza Meyl, a long-distance train service operated by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), has been ordered to stop operating with immediate effect. This follows a fatal train crash on February 12, which left one man dead and several others injured when a goods and passenger train collided on the tracks near Bonny Doone Road in Horizon View, west of Johannesburg. The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) yesterday said it had concluded its preliminary investigation into the collision of the trains to determine the facts which contributed to the accident. We spoke to Public Transport Analyst Paul Browning...
Eskom says it will stop supplying Letsemeng Local Municipality with electricity. The power utility says this was as a result of the Municipality's contravention of the payment conditions with them. Eskom says despite numerous demands the Municipality has failed to honour payment of its electricity accounts. We spoke to Senior Manager for Customer Service in the Free State, Bibi Bedir...
Women and Men Against Child Abuse are today at the Oberholzer Magistrates Court, for the case against Nelli Senwametsi, who was captured in a series of videos that went viral in April 2019 severely assaulting 3 young children. It is now almost a year and as Women and Men Against Child Abuse we are deeply disappointed by the absolute lack of progress in this case, as well as an apparent lack of effort by the SAPS to contact parents for the supposed outstanding further evidence. We spoke to Miranda Jordan, Founding Director of Women and Men Against Child Abuse...
A 14-year-old rape survivor is testifying in the Upington Magistrate court in the case against her alleged rapist. The teenager is suffering from cerebral palsy and has problems talking and she will be testifying through a tablet device - with programs similar to those being used by people suffering from Motor Neuron Disease. The alleged rape took place 7 years ago, when the teenager was 7 years old. We spoke to our reporter, Neo Bodumela.
The man who allegedly kidnapped an 18-month-old baby in Shawela outside Giyani has been found dead, in police cells this morning. Circumstances around his death are not yet clear. Moses Mongwe disappeared with the child after he met her mother on social media two weeks ago. He appeared at the Giyani Magistrate's Court yesterday and was due appear again today. We spoke to our reporter in Limpopo Michael Makungo
Former President Thabo Mbeki has joined South Africans in condemning utterances made by former President FW de Klerk when he said apartheid was not a crime against humanity. Mbeki was speaking on the side-lines of the ANC KZN PEC political school in Durban. Meanwhile the former president says he will avail himself to campaign for the ANC during next year's municipal elections. Vusi Makhosini reports. We also speak to Mayor of Polokwane and Nokuthula Simelane's Sister, Thembi Nkadimeng...
The high court in Pretoria has formally withdrawn charges against three former SARS employees - citing lack of successful prospects to prosecute. Former acting Commissioner Ivan Pillay, Andries Janse van Rensburg and Johan van Loggerenberg were charged with various counts of corruption and were accused of setting up the so-called rogue unit at SARS. We speak to our reporter, Phanuel Shuma...
An interim court order has been granted by Western Cape high court acting judge, Daniel Thulare, to the City of Cape Town, to have the refugees and asylum seekers removed from the Central Methodist church and surrounding areas. More than 700 Cape Town refugees have been living in and around the Central Methodist Church on Greenmarket Square for nearly four months. They refugees were forcefully removed from the United Nations Refugee Agency offices. They are demanding to be moved and resettled to other countries. We speak to our reporter Chris Mabuya at the Western Cape High Court...
National Assembly Speaker Thandi Modise has been asked to investigate the office of the Public Protector for alleged financial mismanagement. In a letter, the Public Protector's representative in the Free State Sphelo Samuel says he has no other recourse but the speaker's office. Among the allegations is that staff members are unable to perform their duties as they are not provided with resources. Joseph Mosia reports
The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development Thoko Didiza has lifted a national ban on livestock auctions in South Africa since the outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth three months ago in the Molemole District in Limpopo. However there are preconditions for the resumption of auctions. Didiza made the announcement at a media briefing in Cape Town today. We spoke to the Director for Animal Health at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Dr Mpho Maja
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) and the South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) say they condemn the Business Rescue Practitioner's decision to cancel 11 domestic routes. From the 29th of February domestic destinations such as Durban, East London and Port Elizabeth, will cease to be operated by SAA. NUMSA and SACCA say this will obviously result in job losses in those regions where SAA no longer flies to. The unions also say that no consultation whatsoever took place with labour as required by law, Instead of consultation, labour was merely informed of this decision. We spoke to Numsa's National Spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola…
The Gauteng Education Department has changed the policy on school outings following the death of 13-year old Enock Mpianzi. The Parktown Boys High School learner drowned last week in the Crocodile River in Brits. He was attending a Grade 8 Orientation Camp at the Nyati Bush camp site. Schools are now expected to seek authorization from the department if learners are going to embark on physical activities. Lona Zawula reports...
Parents from Mthwane High School in Umzimkhulu on the KZN south coast are calling for the provincial education department to build a new school, after they found a newly installed tombstone in one of the classrooms. They believe it has been erected on top of an old grave spot by a family who believe the school was built on their family land. We spoke to the HOD of Department of Education in KZN, Dr Vusimuzi Nzama...
KZN's Education HOD Dr Vusimuzi Nzama explains why about 20 employees of the department have been housed in Zimbali Resort since October 2019 finalizing a national school feeding scheme tender.
Concerned South Africans and parents have been protesting outside of Parktown Boys High School in Johannesburg. They have been protesting since the news of a Grade 8 learner Enock Mpianzi who drowned and died in a river during a school camp orientation activity at the Nyati Bush and River Breakaway in Brits, North West on Wednesday 15 January We spoke to Vanita Daniels who is a concerned citizen- She and other concerned people and parents have been protesting outside Parktown Boys High School since the tragedy...
Parents from Mthwane High School in Umzimkhulu on the KZN south coast are calling for the provincial education department to build a new school, after they found a newly installed tombstone in one of the classrooms. They believe it has been erected on top of an old grave spot by a family who believe the school was built on their family land. We spoke to our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe who visited the school today....
The South African Airways (SAA) has cancelled some of its local and international flights. The cash-strapped airline was placed under business rescue in December, requiring R4-billion to kick start the process, led by practitioner Les Matuson. We spoke to the President of the South Africa Cabin Crew Association, Zazi Nsibanyoni-Mugambi and Accountant and commentator, Khaya Sithole
The body of a Johannesburg learner who went missing while on a school camp has been found. The Grade 8 learner, from Parktown Boys was participating in an Orientation Camp. Police Search and Rescue teams have been tirelessly searching the river since yesterday where the boy went missing. The camp has been cancelled and all learners will return home today. We speak to Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi
While others got off to a good start of their schooling- the same cannot be said to some learners at Copeville Combined School in Pietermaritzburg. Some learners were denied an entry into the school as they did not have proper documentation. We spoke to one of the parents at the school, Thobile Ngubo. We also spoke to MEC of Education in KwaZulu Natal, Kwazi Mshengu on this matter
Earlier this week we spoke to Melissa (pseudo name) regarding her unhappiness with the Standerton Magistrate’s court granting the man who allegedly raped and impregnated her 12 year old daughter R1 000 bail. Here is a short clip of how that conversation went…
Melissa also joined us again for an update on this matter.
We also spoke to The Association of Regional Magistrates Southern Africa (ARMSA) responding to reports that magistrates do not know the law when it comes to rape and gender based violence. Magistrate Vincent Ratshibvumo, Spokesperson for the Association of Regional Magistrates Southern Africa joins us on the line to set the record straight. We also probed him to educate us on what conditions/ considerations are taken in granting or refusing bail in such cases as Melissa and her 12 year old daughter
Friends, former colleagues and family of the late businessman icon Richard Maponya gathered at the Rosebank Union Church in Rosebank for his memorial service. Maponya died on Monday morning at a hospital in Johannesburg after a short illness at the age of 99. He started his business empire in Soweto in the 1950's. Maponya's business interests included retail stores, car dealerships and property development. Here is how his nephew William Maponya remembers him....
Iranian General Qasem Soleimani was buried in his hometown of Kerman earlier today, just hours after Iran attacked two Iraqi military bases that house US troops in retaliation for the US airstrike that killed him. Soleimani was killed by a drone strike in Baghdad on Friday in a dramatic escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. We spoke to Na'eem Jeenah, Executive Director of the Afro- Middle East Centre in Johannesburg, He is currently in Iran.
eNCA Statement:
eNCA has parted company with its Director of News Kanthan Pillay with immediate effect. This follows outrage and condemnation after a tweet he posted.
The tweet does not represent the views of e-Media Investments and the channel.
After intense overnight investigation and consultation, the channel decided it had no alternative but to end its relationship with him. Although he was acting in an individual capacity and his posting was unsolicited, he was nonetheless a senior member of staff and the channel believes there was no room for any other outcome and that damage control was imperative.
Serious allegations have also been levelled at eNCA about Pillay’s censorship of stories and his management style. The channel takes the allegations of censorship very seriously. To that end eNCA is co-operating fully with the SA National Editors Forum that has requested clarity. The channel will be appointing an external expert to investigate these claims.
Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Maggs says: “All news organisations have one currency and that is credibility. It is clear this negative attention has adversely affected eNCA’s reputation and credibility. However with the talented and dedicated staff we have, I believe the channel can recover. Right now our immediate priorities are to mend strained relationships and to rebuild credibility with its audience and other stakeholders as soon as possible.”
We speak to eNCA's former Political Journalist Samkele Maseko on Update At Noon
Eastern Cape Traditional Affairs MEC Xolile Nqatha has expressed shock at the CRL Rights Commission's declaration to shut down 15 initiation schools in four regions of the province. CRL Rights Commission Chairperson David Mosoma has called on communities to help put an end to non-compliant initiation schools. 24 initiates have already died in the current summer season. We speak to MEC Nqatha
Former Lily Mine workers near Barberton in Mpumalanga, who went underground to search for the bodies of the three workers who remain trapped, say it will take them at least about four months to retrieve their bodies. Pretty Nkambule, Solomon Nyarenda and Yvonne Mnisi were trapped underground when the mine collapsed three years ago. Families of the workers have been camping near the mine in an attempt to push government to assist in the situation. We speak to our Reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi….
Eskom is implementing Stage 4 rotational load shedding which is expected to continue until 11pm tonight. This follows Eskom implementing Stage 6 load shedding last night after power supply to the incline conveyors feeding coal to the silos at Medupi power station failed. This resulted in a loss of a number of units while flooding at both Kriel mine and the power station located in Mpumalanga led to no coal deliveries via the conveyor belt. We speak to Director General for the Department of Public Enterprises, Kgathatso Tlhakudi..
Meanwhile The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, John Steenhuisen says there is more to the issue of loadshedding than what meets the eye.
However, Eskom’s Chief Operations Officer Jan Oberholzer says there is no need for the country to panic. He says Eskom has to reduce the demand of the country when it is required because Eskom has to protect the integrity of the electrical network at all times in order to avoid bigger problems in the future. Our economic reporter Liabo Setho spoke to him
Interestingly, The South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) has called for an immediate release of available wind power into the national grid. Wind Energy Association CEO, Ntombifuthi Ntuli says operational wind energy plants have excess capacity of about 500Mega Watts which is available immediately.
Founder and Chief Executive of Pan-African Investment and Research, Dr Iraj Abedian says the longer government focuses on rescuing Eskom the more the economy will weaken, more jobs will be lost and brand SA will suffer.
ANC veteran and former parliamentarian Ben Turok has passed away at the age of 92 this morning. His family has just confirmed the news. We speak to Turok's son, Professor Ivan Turok
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has dissolved Railway Agency Prasa's board. Announcing his decision Mbalula said he has put the institution under administration. He has announced Bongisizwe Mpondo as the administrator for 12 months. We speak to Commentator, Khaya Sithole
The Gauteng provincial government says they will be placing the City of Tshwane under administration. This was announced today by MEC for Human Settlements and CoGTA Lebogang Maile in Johannesburg earlier today. Maile says among the reasons for placing the City under administration is as a result of it's frequency of unauthorized and irregular expenditure as per the Auditor General's report as well as the current financial crisis the City is faced with. Yesterday, the DA mayor, Stevens Mokgalapa and speaker, Katlego Mathebe were ousted in motions of no confidence. Maile says his department is finalizing plans to move forward with placing the City of Tshwane under administration.
Eskom has JUST announced stage four load-shedding from two o clock, this afternoon. Earlier this morning it had announced that stage two load-shedding will continue today and tomorrow from nine-AM to six-PM but things have just suddenly gotten worse. In a statement, the power utility says this is due to a shortage of capacity and a highly constrained system. Power cuts began yesterday, but were suspended at 5 o'clock this morning. Eskom's chief operating officer Jan Oberholzer explains...
TV reporter, Gillian Pillay has been following a number of stories as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence- One story is of a horrific ordeal of a young Soweto minor who was violated multiple times by three different perpetrators. The second is two Nyaope men in their twenties. The first one had numerous accusations levelled against him relating to violating minor girls in the area. Gillian Pillay has more
The community of Olifantshoek village outside Giyani in Limpopo is still shocked after a 67 year old father was chopped to death allegedly by his 31 year old daughter and her 15 year old son. The suspects who has since been arrested allegedly killed him for his social grant money. Rudzani Tshivhase reports....
President Cyril Ramaphosa has instructed the government to urgently implement the process of putting the struggling South African Airways (SAA) under business rescue. The airline, suffered a crippling strike last month and was forced to cancel a number of flights and this pushed it to the brink of collapse. In a statement, the minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Grodhan says placing the airline on a business rescue is an optimal mechanism to restore confidence in SAA and to safeguard it's good assets. SAA has not made a profit since 2011 and is dependent on government bailouts to remain solvent. We speak to economics reporter, Amina Accram and accountant/commentator Khaya Sithole
Debates on the EFF's next leadership are raging within the party although all seems calm to the public eye. The party will hold its second National People's Assembly in Nasrec, Soweto from the 13th to the 16th of December to elect new leadership and discuss policy. Busi Chimombe spoke to the EFF's Commander In Chief Julius Malema in the run-up to the NPA....
Johannesburg mayor Geoff Makhubo says negotiations are under way with other parties to form a new executive of the City. Makhubo was speaking during a media briefing in Johannesburg this morning where he outlined his vision for the City. He was elected Joburg mayor yesterday after winning by 137 votes. Makhubo beat the DA's Funzela Ngobeni who got 101 votes and the EFF's Musa Novela who scored 30 votes. Makhubo says the new executive is expected to be announced this weekend . Makhubo also called on the city manager to explain late payments of suppliers by government..
Cricket South Africa president Chris Nenzani has called a news conference for 6 o'clock this evening, in the wake of continued criticism of it's handling of the media. CSA revoked the accreditations of five journalists on Sunday, a move they admit was in response to those journalists writing stories critical of the administration. CSA has since re-instated the five affected writers, and CSA CEO Thabang Moroe has apologised to them for the actions. But the damage done to CSA and South Africans cricket in the past few days might be tough to return from. Amongst those who's been strong in his criticism is advocate Norman Arendse, a former CSA board member. He has written an open letter to CSA's employees, and the board, calling for an urgent meeting to discuss what he describes as a dereliction of duty- We spoke to advocate Norman Arendse, a former CSA board member
Fritz Joubert's friend has described him assomebody who always wanted to be right and did not handle confrontations very well. Forty year-old Anele Hoyana succumbed to injuries inflicted allegedly by Joubert using a rifle in a video that went viral on social media. Joubert was later killed by a police officer during a scuffle following Hoyana's murder. Joubert's friend Zwelihle Mathe who was also a DJ at many of the events that Joubert hosted says things got uncomfortable when Jourbert started behaving strangely which promted them to leave the party leaving Hoyana, his wife and children behind as they were temporarily staying with Joubert- We spoke to Joubert's friend Zwelihle Mathe
Eskom has announced that it will suspend the switching off of electricity in three municipalities in the Free State for now. This follows a meeting on Thursday involving local government department, Eskom and representatives from three municipalities. The power utility announced on Monday saying it will cut power due to breach in payments. Still on our focus on Mafube Local Municipality- We spoke to Moses Moremi, Chief Director of the Free State Provincial Treasury and Rural Maintenance’s Area Manager for Mafube Local Municipality, Gugu Mokoena...
The Sebokeng community, on Gauteng's Vaal Rand, have been left in shock following the murder of a mother and her daughter. A 22-year-old man allegedly killed his mother, his four-year-old sister and injured his two siblings by stabbing them in Zone 13 Sebokeng in the early hours of this morning. The suspect has been arrested and two cases of murder and two of attempted murder have been opened. We speak to police spokesperson Captain Tebogo Lephoto...
Soweto ANC councillor Mpho Sesedinyane believes a proposal for a R150 monthly flat rate for electricity could be a starting point to address the country's non-payment woes. The flat-rate proposal was the brainchild of the South African National Civic Organisation - a non-political organisation which advocates on behalf of communities in engagements with government and other service providers. Soweto owes Eskom almost R20bn - almost half of the total local municipal debt owed to the electricity utility. Eskom has started disconnecting power to thousands of Soweto households as a consequence.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has launched government's annual campaign of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children at the Witpoort Police Station in Lephalale, Limpopo. Ramaphosa says there is no place for men who abuse women and children in this society...
Former Gauteng Housing MEC Nomvula Mokonyane says there was no 1.3 billion rand allocated for the Alexandra Urban Renewal Project. She says although there was a business plan which costed the project at this amount, however no such money was set aside. Mokonyane was testifying at the hearings focusing on Alexandra township led by the Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Public Protector in Johannesburg. The project was launched by the government in 2001 with the aim of transforming the infrastructure of Alexandra. Mokonyane's testimony ties up with that of former Gauteng Premier Mbazima Shilowa who testified at the same hearings this week...
INTRO: Police have destroyed a massive arms cache and dagga laboratory in Wierda Park in Centurion, Pretoria. Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi and National Commissioner of Police Khehla Sitole briefed the media about the discovery of the arms and drugs. Forensic experts with sniffer dogs raided a private property following a tip off about drugs being manufactured in the house. A couple believed to be the owners of the property were questioned by investigators. Police also discovered an arms cache and ammunition inside the house. Motsoaledi elaborates.....
The controversy around the appointment of the new Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter has spilt over to Parliament. EFF MP Nazier Paulsen blames Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan- accusing him of being anti transformation. Paulsen was ruled out of order for not bringing a substantive motion for the allegations against Gordhan. He was kicked out of the National Assembly after he refused to withdraw. This came after International Relations and Co-operation Minister Naledi Pandor came to Gordhan's defence. Meanwhile The South African Energy Forum, comprised of experts from Energy, Civil Society and Business Community, has called on Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan to make public all documents and video interviews related to the interview and assessment process regarding the appointment of the new Eskom CEO. In an open letter to the Minister the forum has described the process, which ended in the appointment of Andre De Ruyter, as flawed and questionable. We spoke to The South African Energy Forum's spokesperson Lufuno Ratsiku...
South African raised politician and former British Labour MP, Lord Peter Hain has told the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in Johannesburg that international companies have assisted individuals to loot billions of rands from South Africa. Hain, a former anti-apartheid activist, has been at the helm of having international companies - alleged to be involved in state capture - investigated by international governments including Britain. Hain is testifying at the inquiry on how he believes alleged corrupt individuals moved money from the country. He says international banks have been heavily involved
South African Airways says it's considering various options presented by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) to resolve the ongoing strike at the company. SAA management and striking unions met under CCMA mediation over the weekend to end the crippling wage strike. Briefing the media at its headquarters in Kempton Park, the airline assured passengers of its commitment to safety and demanded the unions retract statements alleging that passenger safety could be compromised during the strike.
Eskom has warned South Africans that the national electricity grid is severely constrained due to the unexpected loss of power generation units. Eskom stated that load-shedding is not expected, but it may be implemented at short notice in the event of additional units being unexpectedly lost. We spoke to Eskom's COO Jan Oberholzer
Head of AfriForum's Private Prosecution Unit, Advocate Gerrie Nel has been appointed as the Meyiwa family's advocate in the murder investigation into the death of former goalkeeper and captain of Bafana Bafana, Senzo Meyiwa. AfriForum says they took the case as it's their duty to prevent the criminal justice system from collapsing. Meyiwa was shot and killed in a house in Vosloorus five years ago at the age of 27, and no prosecution has been instituted by the National Prosecuting Authority to date.
Herman Mashaba has announced his resignation as the Mayor of Johannesburg - and as a member of the Democratic Alliance. It follows the election of Helen Zille as the party's Federal Council Chairperson yesterday. Mashaba has previously indicated that he would call it quits, should - what he calls - the 'right wing aligned DA faction' win. He took office as the Johannesburg Mayor in 2016. Speaking during a media briefing in Johannesburg, Mashaba says he is deeply concerned about the politics of the Democratic Alliance. He says he will cease serving as Mayor from the 27th of November. We spoke to DA's Gauteng Provincial Leader John Moodey, ANC Johannesburg spokesperson, Jolidee Matongo and Dr Petrus "Piet" Abraham Croucamp
Convicted child rapist Nicholas Ninow has told the North Gauteng High Court that he was 13 when he started using drugs and that he was on anti-depression medication his whole life. Ninow is testifying - today as the court begins with pre-sentencing proceedings. Ninow was found guilty of raping a seven-year old girl in the toilet cubicle at a Dros Restaurant in Pretoria in September last year. The court rejected is version that he acted impulsively when he raped the child. His legal team will have to prove substantial and compelling circumstances on why the court should deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life in prison. Ninow says life in prison has been very tough on him and he has been using drugs to numb his pain. Asked by court where he gets the drugs in prison Ninow said drugs are everywhere and accessible in prison...
Eskom has announced that it will be to implementing stage two rotational load-shedding from 09:00 until 23:00. The power utility says this is in order to protect the power system from a total collapse. In a statement, Eskom says the power supply constraint is caused by five generating units that are unavailable due to boiler tube leaks among other things. We spoke to energy expert Ted Blom and DA Shadow Minister of Public Enterprises, Natasha Mazzone...
The 2019 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed. He is the 100th winner of the prize - which was awarded for his efforts to achieve peace and international cooperation. Ethiopia reached a peace deal with Eritrea last year, ending a 20-year military stalemate following their 1998-2000 border war. A total of 301 candidates had been nominated for the prestigious award. We speak to our Foreign Editor Sophie Mokoena
Chairperson of Sekunjalo Investment Holdings, Dr Iqbal Survé says the recent raids at his offices are aimed at intimidating him and discrediting his companies, because certain politicians say he cannot “control” his journalists. Dr Iqbal Survé says there is nothing untoward in the business of Sekunjalo Investment Holdings and the raid was uncalled for. He says he has been put under enormous pressure by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan over the past few months. Dr Survé says Gordhan confronted him on 2 occasions regarding Independent Media journalists "not towing the line. " We also spoke to Gordhan's Attorney, Tebogo Malatji
The Constitutional Court has ruled that Stellenbosch University's language policy which stipulates using English and Afrikaans inter-changeably as mediums of instruction is constitutionally justifiable. The former Afrikaans university says the aim of its language policy is to ensure equal access, multilingualism and integration. Pressure group, Gelyke Kanse (Equal Opportunities) is opposed to the policy. Take a listen to Justice Johan Froneman reading out the judgment
South African Airways (SAA) says it believes that it had in the past been infiltrated by an international crime syndicate which looted hundreds of millions of rands through corrupt tenders in the procurement of aircraft parts. SAA says some of this dates as far back as 2015/ 2016 . The airline says it has launched an investigation to look into whether it had been supplied with dodgy parts that failed to meet industry standards. We spoke to Aviation Expert and SA Flyer Magazine Managing Editor Guy Leitch. We also spoke to Numsa's National Spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi- Majola regarding SAA managing to interdict the planned strike by Air Chefs staff members. The court says NUMSA may return at the end of November to argue why the interim order should not be made permanent. Air Chefs employees are not happy because the anniversary bonus was unilaterally withdrawn by management.
Business owners in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality say they may have to shut their doors as a result of the persistent drought. Companies in the metro say they would be forced to shed thousands jobs leaving breadwinners without their sources of income. The municipality is experiencing a devastating drought as five of its dams run critically low. The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber has accused the municipality of failing to implement water saving measures or bring in additional water supply to communities. We spoke to Business Chamber CEO, Nomkhita Mona
An investigation looking into whether there was nothing irregular in the final Fellowship of the College of Surgeons (FCS) exam will be launched. This comes after only fifteen of the 46 candidates from eight universities who sat for the FCS exams passed. Candidates from Wits University, University of Cape Town (UCT), University of Pretoria, Walter Sisulu University and University of the Free State who sat for the Fellowship of the College of Surgeons (FCS) exam results a week ago failed. We spoke to the President of Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), Dr Flavia Senkubuge and Vice-Chairperson of South African Registrars' Association (SARA), Dr Lucky Kambule
During an address at the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU)'s elective conference, the minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga announced that the department is looking into introducing a General Education Certificate (GCE). Motshekga says the planned introduction of the GCE forms part of the initiative to deal with the quality and efficiency through the implementation of standardized assessments. We speak to Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga and Dean of Faculty of Humanities for the Central University of Technology, Free State , Professor Nosisi Nellie Feza
The Labour Court in Johannesburg has interdicted South African Society of Banking Officials (SASBO) 's planned nationwide protest. Judge Hilary Rabkin-Naicker says the unions failed to comply with section 77 of the Labour Relations Act. She says that COSATU and its affiliate SASBO should not entice workers to participate in the strike as it is deemed unlawful. The matter comes after Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) applied for an urgent interdict to stop the protest action by COSATU and SASBO. BUSA argued that the period between the notice to the National Economic Development Labour Council and the protest action did not satisfy the requirements of a protected action. SASBO's Deputy General Secretary Ben Venter says they are very disappointed at the ruling and they will review the full judgement and consider their legal options going forward.
Operation #OkaeMolao by Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) stopped Chinese nationals who they suspect are in the country illegally. While being interrogated on the spot they confirmed to have paid R5000 for the documents they had in their possession. Operation Okae Molao has uncovered corruption at some testing stations around the city of Joburg. Here is an audio recorded at one of the road blocks....
The Constitutional Court has ruled that the President does not have to provide reasons nor a record of his decision to hire and fire ministers. In a judgement today the court found that rule 53 that regulates the review of applications before the courts does not apply to the president. The matter had been brought to the High Court by the DA after the dismissal of then Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan in March 2017 by President Jacob Zuma. The apex court also declared the matter moot as there was a new president and a new cabinet. Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng delivered the judgement... We also spoke to our Senior Political Reporter, Busi Chimombe and Democratic Alliance Federal Executive Chairperson, James Selfe.
The Constitution court has ruled that the common law defense of reasonable & moderate parental chastisement of children is unconstitutional. This comes after a man convicted for assaulting his 13-year-old son argued in his defence before court that he administered moderate and reasonable chastisement under common law. The case was brought before the apex court by Freedom For Religion South Africa. Here is Chief Justice, Mogoeng Mogoeng reading the judgement... We also spoke to Freedom For Religion South Africa legal advisor Daniela Ellerbeck
Businessman Adam Catzavelos has agreed to pay a 150-thousand rand fine and issue a public apology over his racial outbursts in August last year. He has reached a settlement agreement with the Human Rights Commission in the Equality court sitting in the Randburg Magistrates court north of Johannesburg. The Human Rights Commission brought the application after a self-recorded video of Catzavelos emerged in which he allegedly utters the K-word while on holiday in Greece in August last year. Here is what came out of court a few minutes ago. Catzavelos also publicly apologised during the court proceedings.
The SABC's Chief Financial Officer Yolande van Biljon says the organisation is technically insolvent. She says its dire financial position has made it difficult to produce content that people want. This in turn is driving away audiences and with them potential advertisers. She says several of the SABC's content suppliers have ceased production because they have not been paid. She had told the NCOP's Public Enterprises and Communications Committee that the Corporation is likely to be found to be trading recklessly as it is trading while insolvent. The SABC is briefing the Committee on it financial situation and some of the human resources issues that impact on its sustainability.
The premier of the North West, Professor Job Mokgoro has released a report by Maluleke Commission of Inquiry into the Bakgatla Ba Kgafela traditional leadership. In 2016, the provincial government instituted a commission to determine who is the rightful heir and also look into the flow of financial benefits in any transactions conducted by the traditional leadership. We spoke to spokesperson of the premier of the North West, Vuyisile Ngesi...
Transformation in the workplace is still NOT improving. This is according to the Commission for employment equity (CEE). The commission's report reveals that white males still occupy a big chunk of the pie in managerial positions. Chairperson of the Commission Tabea Kabinde says companies have many excuses why they are failing to comply with workplace transformation. The Commission for Employment Equity today presented the 19th CEE annual report and public register for all designated employers on the status of workplace transformation. We spoke to Chairperson of the Commission for Employment Equity Tabea Kabinde and started by asking her what is the role of the Commission for Employment Equity...
Insurer Old Mutual has again fired its Chief Executive Peter Moyo. This is despite a court ruling last month that he should be reinstated. The insurer fired Moyo in June over an alleged conflict of interest. We speak to Old Mutual spokesperson Tabby Tsengiwe and Eric Mabuza; Peter Moyo's lawyer.
The Equality Court has declared the gratuitous display of the Apartheid flag as hate speech, unfair discrimination and harassment. The Nelson Mandela Foundation brought the matter to court - stating that the display of the flag amounts to hate speech and unfair discrimination against black South Africans. Lobby group, AfriForum, challenged the move - saying it will violate freedom of speech. South Gauteng Deputy Judge President Phineas Mojapelo says those who display the apartheid flag, deliberately choose to reject reconciliation and their intention is to propagate hateful feelings. We speak to AfriForum's Head of Policy and Action, Ernst Roets
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has reviewed and set aside the findings of Seriti commission. The commission cost the tax payer about R140 million. Civil organisations, Right2Know and Corruption Watch argued that Judge Willie Seriti's 2016 findings misled the public by exonerating politicians and public servants in wrongdoing during the arms deal saga. R2K says it believes the commission was selective in choosing who would testify or present evidence. Handing down judgement, Judge President Dunstan Mlambo said that the commission failed to probe certain pieces of crucial evidence. We speak to Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services spokesperson Chrispin Phiri, Corruption Watch's lawyer Caroline James and Independent writer and Researcher and Political Activist,Dr Dale Mckinley
It has been over three months since the floods that left over 71 people died in Kwa-Zulu Natal, and the people who were dispalced are still living in the temporary shelter. National treasury allocated over 150 million rand releif fund to assist victims and their families.
Thousands of mine-workers are trickling in at the infamous Koppie in Marikana - the shooting scene of 34 miners on August 16th in 2012. They are attending the commemoration event marking 7 years since the massacre happened. Members of different political formations, the clergy, social activists and families of the victims have also arrived. The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) president Joseph Mathunjwa says The lives and conditions have still not changed....
Investors are reportedly dumping South African government bonds at a rate of almost R2 billion a day. The sales have wiped out inflows at a time when the country needs foreign investment to close a current-account deficit that was equivalent to 2.9% of gross domestic product in the first quarter.
The New Nation Movement wants to convince the Constitutional Court to change the current electoral system to allow for a more accountable system of government where eligible South Africans can stand for election to the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures other than through party list. The former IEC chairperson Advocate Pansy Tlakula says it's important to carefully examine any electoral system if the country wants accountability.
The Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane says she will seek leave to appeal the cost order against her. This come after the High Court in Pretoria ruled that Mkhwebane should pay seven-point-five per cent of the costs in her personal capacity and her office 85 per cent, in the case which relates to her Vrede dairy farm report which was previously set aside as unconstitutional. The Council for the Advancement South African Constitution and the Democratic Alliance approached the High Court to have the report set aside and they also requested that Mkhwebane pay the costs in her personal capacity.
Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa) boss Dr Nkosinathi Sishi is allegedly on the verge of signing a controversial multi billion dollar deal. This according to a Daily maverick article. Sishi allegedly unilaterally and secretly negotiated a multi billion rand deal agreement that allows the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) to extract management fees in excess of R400-million for proposing and developing infrastructure projects for Prasa.
Supporters of the axed eThekwini Mayor - Zandile Gumede say the decision by the KwaZulu-Natal ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) to recall Gumede without clear terms of reference in terms of what they are looking for, shows that the former mayor is being persecuted. Their comments, came after the PEC took a decision to recall Gumede and the rest of the Durban metro's executive committee, citing concerns about a lack of service delivery.
A landmark sexual offence case dating back to the 1970's is to be heard at the Wynburg magistrate's Court in Cape Town. Childhood rape survivors Lisa van der Merwe (56) and her sister Claudine Shiels (60) are seeking justice from the courts. Between 1974 and 1979, both sisters were allegedly molested by relatives. The accused, who are sais to be from prominent Constantia family, will appear in the Wynberg Court tomorrow. The sisters say they want an open trial to expose the perpetrators' lack of remorse and give strength to those in similar situations who are scared to speak out. This is the oldest sex abuse case to go to trial in South Africa.
The African Centre for Migration and Society says foreigners are likely to make their way back into the Johannesburg CBD in hopes of earning a living. This after the Johannesburg Magistrates Court ordered the deportation of dozens of foreign nationals who were arrested during a counterfeit goods raid in the city centre last week. The court says those scheduled for deportation within 30-days will, in the meantime, be moved to the Lindela Repatriation Centre in Krugersdorp.
The Msunduzi Municipality's Executive Mayor, Themba Njilo and his executive have been asked to step down by the ANC KwaZulu-Natal PEC.This, as we wait for a press briefing by the party where they are going to annouce the decision in regard to the future of eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede and mayors of other poor performing municipalities in the province. Meanwhile, he DA in eThekwini has also welcomed the reports that the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal is recalling mayor Zandile Gumede. While, the EFF says it is not surprised that the ANC in the province has finally taken a decision to recall some mayors in the province. And the IFP says ANC has missed the opportunity to take a stand and fight corruption in the eThekwini municipality
There are crime syndicates targeting industrial batteries powering the country's cellphone towers. An increasing number of thefts of batteries from cellphone towers in Gauteng has left some Soweto residents battling with network problems. According to mobile network provider MTN, there were 125 incidents of battery theft last week.
Military court proceedings against a major in the SA National Defence Force has been postponed until November. Major Fatima Isaacs faces two charges of wilful defiance and disobeying lawful demand for refusing to remove her headscarf. Isaacs works as a clinical forensic pathologist at 2 Military Hospital in Wynberg. She allegedly refused to take an insutruction from a senior officer not to wear the scarf.
South African Police Services (SAPS) are back in the Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD) to conduct raids for counterfeit goods. This is near the same spot where chaos broke out. Last week, police officers were attacked while conducting a raid on counterfeit goods in the city centre. Four police vehicles were damaged in the process to conduct raid in the Joburg CBD.
The family of the late Sam Meyiwa (father of late Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper - Senzo Meyiwa) says they will continue to call for justice and ensure that Sam's dream of having his son's killers behind bars is realised. The family says Meyiwa had not been well since the death of Senzo in 2014. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to family spokesperson, Nathi Ngwenya..
South Africa's population continues to grow significantly. Stats SA has estimated the 2019 mid-year population at 58.78 million, in comparison to 2018's 57.73 million population estimations. The Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke has today released the 2019 Mid-year population estimates. The report provides estimates on the population of South Africa and includes current indicators of fertility, mortality and migration among others. Gauteng remains the largest share of the population, with approximately 15.2 million people (25.8%) living in this province, while Northern Cape remains the province with the smallest share of the population of approximately 1.26 million people (2.2%). Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke
The High Court in Pretoria has suspended the Public Protector's remedial action against Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan - pending a judicial review. Judge Sulet Potterill says it defies all logic to implement the remedial action as, while the report is being taken on judicial review. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Claude Leon Foundation Chairperson in Constitutional Governance at the University of Cape Town, Professor Pierre De Vos...
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala has announced a budget of R66,719 Million for the Royal Household for the 2019/2020 financial year. This is a R1 million increment from the previous allocation of R65 million. Zikalala announces his office budget of R714,004 in the KZN Legislature. Krivani Pillay spoke to KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Sihle Zikalala...
The community of Wedela near Carletonvile, west of Gauteng are living in fear as learners at the local high school are being prevented from attending classes for three weeks now. The Wedela Technical school decided to close the school down because of low resources.Residents claim that illegal miners are terrorising both parents and children The have invaded the school and stolen school infrastructure, including computers.There is no electricity at the school due to cable theft by the Zama Zama's. A concerned parent, Sinawo Mbiko says that ther concerns has fallen on deaf ears as the police has done nothing to assist them. Krivani Pillay spoke to Sinawo Mbiko, a parent from Wedela Technical School, in Carletonvile west of Gauteng....
The family of a 54-year-old ANC councillor who was shot and killed in Mokopane in Limpopo on Tuesday have turned away a delegation from the Mogalakwena Local Municipality offering condolences. Mayor Andrina Matsemela, councillors and municipal managers wanted to pay their condolences to the family of slain councillor, Valtyn Kekana, in Moshate outside Mokopane. The family believed that Kekana had been killed for leading a fight against corruption in the municipality. Krivani Pillay spoke to Spokesperson for Mogalakwena Local Municipality, Malesela Selokela and Limpopo Premier, Stanley Mathabatha Spokesperson, Kenny Mathivha...
Former President Jacob Zuma has taken to twitter to respond to the latest utterances by EFF leader Julius Malema about ANC NEC member Derek Hanekom. Zuma says this confirms his testimony at the state capture commission of inquiry that Hanekom is a known agent. This follows EFF president Julius Malema revealing that Hanekom provided the EFF with a list of ANC members that would vote against former president Jacob Zuma in his 2017 vote of no confidence. Krivani Pillay spoke to political analyst Sanusha Naidu...
Giselle Dariele Chetty from Deccan Rooad Primary School in Pietermaritzburg was buried on Monday after contracting the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu. The KwaZulu- Natal Health department said there was no confirmation yet that 9-year-old Pietermaritzburg girl died from swine flu. Since then, there have been two cases of swine flu from pupils at the school which has resulted in the suspension of lessons to conduct a "deep sanitisation" of its classrooms. Following the news of the death of Giselle Chetty, only 350 pupils out of 1,097 have attended school since Monday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Rumen Maistry on the cases of swine flu at Deccan Road Primary School in Pietermaritzburg.
Some disgruntled ANC members in the Waterberg region have vowed to shut down the Mogalakwena municipality. They're demanding that the party's provincial chair, Stan Mathabatha, address their challenges. ANC councillor, 54-year old Valtyn Kekana and sub-regional secretary 32-year-old Ralph Kanyane were shot and killed Yesterday afternoon *(23/07) outside a supermarket in Mokopane. It's believed that their deaths are linked to ANC factional battles within Waterberg.
The Constitutional Court says the personal costs orders constitute an essential, constitutionally-infused mechanism to ensure that the conduct of public representatives does not fall egregiously short of what is required of them. This was said during a judgement by the court following an application by the public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane to have the Constitutional Court to reverse the Pretoria high court personal costs order against her for an estimated R900,000
The Chairperson of the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology, at the Stellenbosch University, Professor Lindy Heinecken says the deployment of the army to deal with the gang violence to the Cape Flats in Cape Town is not a good idea. Professor Heinecken says the SANDF intervention in the area could have long term consequences. Her comments come after government announced a joint venture between the SANDF and SAPS. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairperson of the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology, at the Stellenbosch University, Professor Lindy Heinecken.
A massive joint operation between the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Services (SAPS) is set to get under way in the gang-infested Cape Flats, Western Cape. This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa approved a request for the deployment of the SANDF following a sharp increase in murders in the city of Cape Town. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ur reporter, Carmel Roberts, Deputy Chairperson of the Mitchell's Plein Resident Association, Michael Jacobs and Spokesperson of the Department of Defence, Siphiwe Dlamini...
The house of an alleged fraudster has been set alight by a mob in Ladysmith, Kwa-Zulu Natal. This comes after the alleged fraudster, who apparently ran a bitcoin scam, was taken into protective custody when a mob threatened him after they heard he was about to flee the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter, Hafsa Mkhize...
Eskom has appealed to communities to stop illegal connections. There is an increasing number of repeated equipment failures in some areas, particularly in Gauteng. These illegal connections have resulted in failure of transformers and mini-substations which has been increased by meter tampering, electricity theft and vandalism of infrastructure. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dikatso Mothae, Eskom spokesperson...
A group supporting Ethekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede earlier blocked Doctor Pixley KaSeme Street - formerly West Street - in front of the Durban City Hall demanding that Gumede resumes her duties as mayor. Some of the protesters were arrested after the police used stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Mzo Dube - the spokesperson for ANC members supporting Ethekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede - is among the people who have been arrested on charges of public violence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mzo Dube - the spokesperson for ANC members supporting Ethekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede and our reporter, Vusi Makhosini..
National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi has withdrawn racketeering charges against former Hawks General Johan Booysen and several current and former officers. Batohi took the decision after appointing a panel to review the racketeering authorisations and provide her with a legal opinion. Booysen had been charged by former NPA bosses Nomgcobo Jiba and Shaun Abrahams. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Bulelwa Makeke, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson
A decisive plan to address the ongoing murders in Cape Town is expected to be discussed during meeting with Police Minister Bheki Cele and ministers in the justice cluster today. Western Cape murder rate has risen by 23% compared to this time last year. Over the weekend 11 people were murdered in Philippi East. Two others were also murdered in Hanover Park on the Cape Flats. Cele visited Philippi East yesterday following the bloodshed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Albert Fritz, the Western Cape provincial Minister of Community Safety
The KwaZulu-Natal Health department is investigating a case of gross negligence at the R K Khan Hospital in Chatsworth, south of Durban. This after a video showing a patient, who was admitted in hospital having live maggots in his mouth went viral on social networks. The patient died on Tuesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to R K Khan Hospital board chairperson, Cyril Pillay
A 21-year-old woman has given birth on the street with the help of some residents after being turned away at the Ngwaabe clinic outside Jane Furse in Limpopo. The incident happened on Saturday morning after the woman, whose identity is being protected, was told by security guards that the clinic does not operate on weekends. Meanwhile, a homeless man died on the steps of theTshwane District Hospital on Tuesday night, after he was allegedly refused emergency services as he was dirty and stank. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA's Gauteng Spokesperson on Social Development, Crezane Bosch and Gauteng District Health Chief Director, Mothomone Pitsi
TALKING POINTS: President Ramaphosa’s SONA commitment to look into the development of a hydrogen economy is of great significance. Transnet’s latest plans to rail manganese to the ports is an important boost for South Africa’s export potential. *** South Africa should follow Australia’s example of allowing mining companies to generate their own solar power.
Economists say President Cyril Ramaphosa should be judged by how well he coordinate and implement plans announced in his state of the nation address. President Ramaphosa's SONA speech emphasised the need for economic growth and job creation, good governance and the importance to address Eskom's crisis. Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to ensure the speed up of the release of the 230 billion-rand of support for the ailing power utility Eskom. Will throwing money at Eskom, solve the utililty crisis and the country's energy problems. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to energy analyst and managing director at EE Publishers Chris Yelland...
Health workers union, the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) has raised concerns about overcrowing at hospitals in Gauteng. The Union has called on it's members not to care for more than the number of patients that they can manage, as this could lead to litigation. Tembisa and Kopanong hospitals have since admitted that their facilities are overcrowded due to the increasing demand for healthcare services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairperson of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA), Simpiwe Gada and Gauteng Health Department HOD, Professor Mkhululi Lukhele
The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed former President, Jacob Zuma's request to appeal against the finding that he was not entitiled to state funding. The high court has now instructed the state attorney to take steps and recover the money. The Democratic Alliance says that they have always felt that Zuma 'Should be held liable to pay his legal fees', and they feel that justice has been served. Krivani Pillay spoke to James Selfe, Da's federal executive chairperson
Police say they're working around the clock to find the person or people behind the murders of homeless people in Pretoria. The body of the fifth homeless person was discovered at a bus terminal not far from the UNISA campus in Muckleneuk *yesterday. Criminologist and former head of the police's psychological investigating unit, Gerard Labuschagne, says because of the intimate nature of the crimes it is possible the killer knows the victims. He added that the police will make a big mistake if they don't investigate the deaths as a serial killer. Krivani Pillay spoke Gerald Labuschangne, Criminologist and former head of the police's psychological investigating unit...
Security is tight in and around the Parliamentary Precinct ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address this evening. Ramaphosa will deliver his second state of the Nation Address this year. The Presiding Officers of Parliament Thandi Modise and Amos Masondo say they are ready for the official opening of Parliament *this evening. Modise who is the Speaker of the National Assembly says she believes that this evening's proceeding will go well. Krivani Pillay spoke to Cas Coovadia, President of the Business Unity South Africa
Organised crime flourished under Jacob Zuma's presidency as South Africa's criminal justice agencies were manipulated for political and personal gain. This statement was contained in the joint submission from the Institute for Security Studies and Corruption Watch to the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture. The submission claims that manipulation of the criminal justice system also took place under former president Thabo Mbeki, but mostly thrived under Zuma, at the expense of the country's safety and economic wellbeing. Krivani Pillay spoke to Head of the Justice and Violence Prevention Programme at the ISS, Gareth Newham
The families of apartheid security force victims have written a letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa to request a commission of inquiry to investigate the suppression of the Truth Reconciliation and Commission (TRC) cases. The families say they been appalled at the manner in which the unfinished business of the TRC was handled by the previous administrations. They want the president to appoint a commission of inquiry into the political interference that has stopped the investigation and prosecution of all the cases referred by the TRC to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Joburg residents will be without water for two and a half days next week. Rand water is planning a major water shut down for 54 hours from Monday 24th. Joburg Water says Rand Water, which is the main bulk water supplier is planning a major water shutdown that will affect ALL its reservoirs and towers. Nico de Jager, MMC for environment and infrastructure services says this would result in the limited water supply to all Rand Water customers.
Residents of Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, are marching to the City of Johannesburg's offices in Sandton to demand better services. Residents took to the streets this morning in protest over Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba's promises to rebuild about 80 illegal properties that were demolished by the Red Ants last month. In April residents embarked on a similar march to the same offices to raise concerns over poor service delivery issues and the continued mushrooming of illegal dwellings in the township.
43 years after the Soweto Uprising -- young people still find themselves at the centre of the country's struggles. Today's youth have taken the baton from the class of 1976 and continue to be trailblazers in the fight for social and economic transformation. As South Africa commemorates Youth Day, whose theme this year is: "25 Years of Democracy: A celebration of Youth Activism," our reporter Nomalizo Mandela takes a deeper look at how youth activism is standing up to challenges in the country. Sakina Kawendo spoke to Sam Lekalakala, the Shumelyte Creation Director
Sudan's protest leaders have called for nighttime demonstrations and marches in the capital, Khartoum. The renew night-time rallies is aimed at putting pressure to the Transitional Military Council (TMC) to hand over power to civilians and condemn the crackdown on a sit-in camp earlier this month. Gunmen in military fatigues, violently dispersed thousands of demonstrators who had camped outside the army headquarters in the capital, leaving dozens dead and hundreds wounded early this month (June 3). Jon Gericke spoke to Dr Asha Alkarib Sudanes Civil society activist.
The family of a 78-year old woman, Ntobizodwa Toto-Madikizela who was hacked to death with an axe, have left their home after it was torched last Friday. The family which includes 13 children have been left homeless and pleading for shelter. There are a number of people that have been allegedly killed in the area for accusations of witchcraft. Jon Gericke spoke to SABC reporter, Nkululeko Nyembezi
Former UEFA president Michel Platini has been arrested as part of an investigation into alleged corruption relating to the decision to award Qatar the 2022 World Cup. Platini becomes a second prominent football administrator to be arrested this month after CAF president, Ahmad Ahmad's arrest earlier this month in France. Jon Gericke spoke to Soccer Analyst, Kudjio Amankwa
KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC Kwazi Mshengu says there is an urgent need for police deployment at public schools to help fight the increasing levels of violence. Mshengu was speaking at Umlazi Township south of Durban during the funeral service of a 48 year old teacher who was shot dead within school premises last week. Meanwhile, the South African Police Services, teacher's unions and Equal Education are meeting in Pretoria. to discuss the recent spate of violence at schools. This comes after a Grade 8 pupil was stabbed to death at Forest High School in Turffontein, south of Johannesburg. Jon Gericke spoke to Ntsiki Dlulani, Western Cape, Equal Education leader
Old Mutual has fired its CEO, Peter Moyo. This comes after he was suspended in May 2019 over conflict of interest. In a statement, the company says the board gave Moyo a notice of termination of employment yesterday. The board says after lengthy discussions it has resolved that there is a material breakdown in trust and confidence in Moyo. Jon Gericke spoke to ttorney at TGR Attorneys, Matodzi Ratshimbilani...
The department of Communications says the government guarantee application by the public broadcaster SABC is still being considered. SABC's Chief Financial Officer, Yolande van Biljon, has warned of the possibility of a communication blackout amid the public broadcaster's dire financial situation. Biljon says the cash-strapped SABC is stuck with large debts. Jon Gericke spoke to Acting Director General for the department of Communications, Nomvuyiso Batyi...
TALKING POINTS South Africa’s first electricity-from-the-sea project is under way in the Western Cape South Africa is being urged to champion the electric car – to put an end the vast sums of money that leave the country to pay for imported petroleum *** Mineral exploration in the Northern Cape is putting smiles on the faces of geologists
The City of Joburg is calling on the residents who have debt that they could not pay for a long time to come forward. The city council has approved a debt relief programme to write of debts on customers who can not pay their municipal rates and services. The City will now be able to ensure that defaulting customers are brought back into good standing on their municipal accounts. MMC of Finance in the city of Joburg Funzela Ngobeni says there is a procedure that needs to be followed before a resident can be assisted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MMC of Finance in the city of Joburg Funzela Ngobeni...
Although unemployed, some young people remain hopeful that one day they will join the country's working class. Clement Tefu and Zanele Mthombeni, both 22, from Alexandra, are graduates but without jobs. Meanwhile, Student organisation , the South African Student Congress, (SASCO) is marching against youth unemployment. They are calling for the creation of an unemployment database and the scrapping of experience requirements for entry level jobs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Buthanani Goba, the SASCO Gauteng Secretary...
A group of undocumented migrants has escaped from police custody. The group was being transported from court to holding cells where they were to be processed by the department of Home Affairs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police Spokesperson, Colonel Lungelo Dlamini...
Corruption is rampant within the South African Police Service. That's according to Corruption Watch's new report, Corruption in Uniform. Corruption Watch says the most implicated police officials are detectives and investigating officers, who are frequently aided by other colleagues. It highlighted bribery, abuse of power and dereliction of duty as leading categories of corruption in the police services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Melusi Ncela, Corruption Watch reseacher.
The police have launched a manhunt following the discovery of two bodies in Magnolia Park, Pretoria, over the weekend. Police spokesperson, Captain Daniel Mavimbela says the two bodies were found over the weekend and two weeks ago they also found a body in a veld near the Mears Park Train Station. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sunnyside Police Station spokesperson, Captain Daniel Mavimbela and Tebogo Mpufane is the spokesperson of Kopano Manyano centre
Pan-Africanist Congress president Narius Moloto says he is not receiving support from other party members in planning the August PAC National Conference. The party which appeared to be united leading to the May National Elections seems to be having factional problems again. The PAC has dissolved its party executive and placed the party under administration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Prof Somadoda Fikeni
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) is today picketing together with South African Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) at all the country's major airports to protest against a number of issues at SAA and SAA Technical. The issues include the recent resignation of the GCEO Vuyani Jarana, corruption of SAAT management; problems in the maintenance department; allegations of nepotism tribalism and corruption to name a few. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Numsa's National Spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi- Majola...
Sugar giant Tongaat Hulett has suspended its share trading on the JSE. Tongaat asked that its listings be suspended because of accounting irregularities. The company is currently impelmenting a turnaround strategey that has resulted in over 5,000 employees receiving retrenchment letters. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU)'s National Organisor in the Sugar Industry, Nkosikhona Nzama..
TALKING POINT Great news for South Africa is that manganese, which we host in such abundance, is edging its way into the growing electric vehicle (EV) market. This week’s packed Junior Indaba pleaded with the government to kickstart junior mining or face significant decline in mining as a whole. *** A South African company has raised R160-million in for investment in a new gas project in the Free State.
The Alexandra Shutdown Committee say they are opposed to the rebuilding of structures which were demolished last Friday in the township, north of Johannesburg. The Committee says should the city of Johannesburg fail to address the mushrooming of illegal dwellings in Alexandra, there will be another massive shutdown of the township. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Alexandra Shutdown Committee Convenor, Sandile Mavundla.
South African Airways has appointed SAA group executive for operations, Zuks Ramasia, as the carrier's acting CEO. This follows the recent resignation of SAA CEO, Vuyani Jarana. Jarana cited uncertainty around funding and slow decision making processes - delaying the airline's turnaround strategy - as key reasons for his departure. SAA employees have also threatned to go on strike demanding that Jarana be reinstated to his position. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SATAWU'S sapokesperson Zanele Sabela...
The National Prosecuting Authority has withdrawn the charges against Fita Khupe... Khupe was implicated in the murder of the seven Vlakfontein family members. In his previous appearance he was denied bail as the magistrate felt that he could influence witnesses, and that there was sufficient evidence linking him to the killings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC TV reporter, Gillian Pillay and Gauteng NPA Spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane
It's apparently harmful for companies to refer to themselves as smaller, boutique, enterprises. This is according to Dermot Latimer who is the Founder and Owner of the Iconic Media Group. Latimer says being labelled as a small and boutique enterprise is a negative stigma, can be damaging and gives the bigger players an upper hand. Krivani Pillay spoke to Dermot Latimer who is the Founder and Owner of the Iconic Media Group advertising agency
The African National Congress' economic transformation head, Enoch Godongwana says a National Executive Committee Lekgotla is not a decision making body. His remarks come after ANC Secretary-General Ace Magshule told the media at a post-lekgotla briefing in Pretoria that the ruling party wants the mandate of South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to be expanded to focus on development and job creation. Speaking to my colleague Stephen Grootes this morning, Mr Godongwana says Magashule's statement was inaccurate. Krivani Pillay spoke to ANC National Spokesperson, Pule Mabe...
The Mayor of Johannesburg, Herman Mashaba has promised to provide more information on the city's investigation into the demolition of illegal structures in the Marlboro informal settelment in Alexandra. This, after eighty structures were demolished by the Red Ants on Friday following a court order. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg Mayor, Herman Mashaba ....
Africa is taking a giant step towards strengthening its economic position. 52 of the continent's countries have signed a free trade aggreement that forms the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA). This will make Africa the largest free trade network in the world by population. The African Union and Ministers of Trade must now finalize work on fascilitating the operational phase of this trade network. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Andrew Skipper, the Head of Africa at Hogan Lovells.
Yesterday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) management appeared before the Commission for Gender Equality over SAPS' handling of gender-based related cases. The commission says it is concerned by the lengthy delays by police to investigate cases gender discrimination cases. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Acting Chairperson for the Commission for Gender Equality, Tamara Mathebula...
Panyaza Lesufi returns to his former post as Education MEC. Gauteng Premier David Makhura has just made the announcement. Makhura says he has received complaints following his appointed of Lesufi as MEC for Finance and e-Government. MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko who had been elected Education MEC will now be the new MEC for Finance and e-Government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng government spokesperson Thabo Masebe...
The Red Ants have demolished about eighty illegal structures in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg. The City of Johannesburg together with the law enforcement agencies are part of the operation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburg Metro Police spokesperson, Wayne Minnaar....
TALKING POINTS:
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Mr Gwede Mantashe must take his new energy portfolio seriously by boosting renewable energy, which is cheaper and jobs-rich.
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South Africa's new carbon tax, which comes into effect tomorrow, aims at curtailing our colossal dependence on coal-based electricity
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A feather in South Africa's cap is that it remains the world's biggest exporter of manganese, a metal found in great quantities in the Northern Cape.
A group of teens is set to make aviation history when they plan to fly a light aircraft from Cape Town to Cairo in Egypt. The group of 20 plans to fly over 10-thousand km next month 12 in a plane they have assembled themselves. The will share knowledge with other young people. They will also fly to other countries. Megan Werner, says the aim is to inspire their peers to dream big and believe in themselves. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Megan Werner
Medscheme employees are from today embarking on a nationwide strike. They are demanding to be paid perfomance bonuses. Worker's Union Nehawu says they reached an agreement with Medscheme that all employees would receive bonuses the beginning of last month but they have not yet received it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nehawu spokesperson Khaya Xaba and Head of Industrial Relations at Medscheme, Advocate Patric Sota...
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) say they are going to appeal the ruling by the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg about the comments they made that the former finance minister, Trevor Manuel had a corrupt relationship with SARS commissioner Edward Kieswetter are defamatory and false. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy President of the EFF, Floyd Shivambu...
As Africa Month draws to the end, the Department of Arts and Culture held a colloquium at the Soweto Theatre under the theme 'Celebrating literary heroes' the event saw the likes of Linton Kwesi-Johnson, Don Mattera, James Matthews and Sindiwe Magona delivering pieces of their work before the packed theatre. Last week South Africans celebrated Africa Day, which coincided with President Cyril Ramaphosa's inauguration. Zoleka Qodashe compiled this report
President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria earlier took an oath of office at Eagles Square in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. This is Buhari's second and final term in office. He was re-elected on February 23 this year, having secured over 15-million votes against main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar's with about 11-million votes. Take a listen to the inauguration ceremony...
The announcement of the Malawi's Presidential election results, have been delayed until ballots from a third of the voting districts have been recounted. The country's High court ordered the recount after the Malawi Congress Party filed complaints alleging intimidation and tampering by President Peter Mutharika's ruling Democratic Progressive Party. With 75% of the vote counted, Mutharika has taken 40.44% of votes cast in the May 21 presidential election. Meanwhile, Former Botswana president Ian Khama quitting the ruling party, the Botswana Democratic Party - BDP - in a row with his hand-picked successor, current president Mokgweetsi Masisi. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent in Malawi, George Mhango and Foreign desk Editor, Sophie Mokoena.
As we commemorate World Telecommunications and Information Society Day; Communication Minister, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams says government has a responsibility to provide digital access and literacy to all South Africans. She says one of the reasons that there are delays in implementing digital migration or DTT is that a few people have registered to receive the set top boxes. Ndabeni-Abrahams says the Free State will be the first province to switch to digital television this year. She's also says that she optimistic that the SABC will be ready for the migration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to World Wide Worx's Managing Director technology analyst Arthur Goldstuck
Sudanese military and protest leaders have agreed on a three-year transition period for transferring power to a full civilian administration. The Transitional Military Council (TMC) says the alliance would have two-thirds of the seats on a legislative council. However, the two sides are yet to agree on a sovereign council - the top tier of power, where both want a majority. The protest movement is demanding a civilian-led transition following 30 years of iron-fisted rule by now deposed president Omar al-Bashir, but the generals who toppled him have been holding onto a leadership role. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Asha Alkarib, Sudanese Civil society activist ...
Over 80 families are living at the Luyolo Community Centre, in Gugulethu. They have been living in the hall since June 2018. This, after they were evicted from an open piece of land next to the hall. Yesterday, I spoke to the chairman of the Gugulethu Seven, Phindile Nazo who says they have an arrangement with the HOD of the department of Human Settlements in the provinvce to occupy the hall until they are move into temporary shelter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Western Cape Human Settlements MEC, Bonginkosi Madikizela...
The UN Security Council will hold its first meeting today to discuss Cameroon's separatist conflict. The separatist conflict has forced more than 530-thousand people to flee their homes and thousands killed. The English-speaking separatists of Cameroon, are campaigning for the creation of an independent state in the North-West and South-West regions. Majority of the displaced are women and children. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Southern Cameroonian Activist, Goddy Go
The Basic Education department has dismissed reports that it intends to introduce a new life orientation curriculum that will focus on masturbation, sexual consent, gender nonconformity and single-parent families. According to reports, grade 5 pupils as young as nine years old were going to taught about masturbation when new life orientation textbooks are rolled out next year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Basic Education department spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga
Voting is reportedly proceeding well in Vuwani following a threat by the Pro Makhado group to disrupt it. Police from Limpopo and Gauteng have been deployed in the area after some residents vowed not to take part in the elections. Meanwhile, National Police Commisioner General, Khehla Sitole has arrived in Vuwani to assess election hot spot areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter Rudzani Tshivhase...
Over 775-thousand South Africans who have applied to cast a special vote are marking their ballot papers today and tomorrow. The IEC says the elderly, sick, disabled and pregnant voters who are unable to make their way to voting stations are being visited at their homes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IEC's Deputy Chief Electoral Masego Shiburi..
A fifteen member syndicate involved in fraud using people's forged personal details to purchase items is appearing in the Nigel Regional court on Gauteng's Eastrand facing more than 84-thousand charges. The charges range from fraud, forgery and Contravention of the Identification Act. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Spokesperson, Colonel Lungelo Dlamini...
The Equality Court has ruled that Black First Land First (BLF) political slogan "Land or Death" is hate speech. The court has also instructed BLF to remove the slogan from its social media accounts, website and other places within a month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter, Busisiwe Jemsana...
The KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Willies Mchunu says the Ethekwini Municipality has confirmed the alleged salary increases for some municipal employees. Striking workers gridlocked the city after demanding salary increases similar to those promised to uMmkhonto weSizwe veterans. The eThekwini Municipality has now decided to halt this process. Premier Mchunu says they have launched an investigation into the matter.
Four people have been shot dead this morning in Hout Bay in Cape Town. It is alleged that the shooting is linked to taxi violence over routes. Last week a taxi driver was shot and killed in the area. Crime scene experts are on the scene combing for clues. We spoke to Hout Bay Ward Councillor Roberto Miguel Quintas
The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) says its concerned about the spread of mafia and gang-related activities in the construction industry. ASAQS says a major intervention is needed to protect infrastructure projects, investor confidence, and the safety of professionals in the built environment who are working on project sites. According to ASAQS, construction projects worth more than R25.5 billion were being violently disrupted and halted by these gangs. The Delangokubona Business Forum and the Federation for Radical Economic Transformation, both KwaZulu-Natal-based groups are claiming to advocate for local business and community interests, have been repeatedly accused of sending armed men to demand a stake in the projects from professionals on construction sites. We spoke to the President of Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) Yunus Bayat, Chief Executive of SA Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors (Safcec) Webster Mfebe and Secretary General of the Radical Economic Transformation Robert Ndlela
The top ANC leader in KwaZulu-Natal arrested in connection with the death of former ANC Youth League secretary-general Sindiso Magaqa is appearing in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate's Court. Magaqa's family has expressed shock and disappointment following this arrest. Meanwhile, the ANC yesterday confirmed that a senior party leader in the province and a mayor in one of the municipalities in southern KZN had been arrested together with four others and are appearing in court today. Yesterday KZN ANC member Thabiso Zulu expressed his frustration regarding not receiving state protection for his part in blowing the whistle on corruption in the province as well as political deaths
Disgruntled prosecutors say they have tried numerous times to have a meeting with the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi but she could not avail herself. They say hence today they decided to march to NDPP's offices in Pretoria to hand over their memorandum of grievances. Representatives from each province were chosen to take the memorandum to the NDPP, and the memorandum will deal with salary increases, promotions and other issues.
Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan has apologised to South Africans for the inconvenience caused by the current load shedding incidents and says it will take some time to solve the crisis. Gordhan says more technicians have also been assigned to Mozambique to manage the cut in power supply to South Africa. Gordhan has acknowledged that Eskom has not communicated sufficiently with the public. Gordhan, was speaking at a media breifing in Rosebank.
What was meant to be a campaign trail with commuters by President Cyril Ramaphosa ended up being a disaster when he got stuck for almost 3 hours on a journey that was meant to be 45 minutes. President Ramaphosa was on his way to Tshwane to interact with commuters during a train ride from Mabopane to Pretoria City centre.
An ANC mayor from one of the municipalities in southern KwaZulu-Natal will appear in court tomorrow . The ANC mayor was arrested yesterday by the police's national task team investigating political killings in the province. The senior party leader in the province is believed to be linked to the murder of former ANCYL Secretary General - Sindiso Magaqa - in 2017. Meanwhile, the ANC in the province has denied not following up on information given by whistle blowers and also not providing security for the whistle blowers especially in the Sindiso Magaqa case and other corruption cases. ANC member in KZN and friend of Sindiso Magaqa Thabiso Zulu says he is living in fear of his life because he is not protected after blowing the whistle.
British MPs will vote today on a No Deal Brexit after they again rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal last night.May was again heavily defeated with MPs rejecting her Brexit plans by 391 to 242. If MPs vote against no deal, they would then go on to a further vote tomorrow on a Brexit delay. Meanwhile South Africa may bear the brunt economically if the United Kingdom (UK) leaves the European Union (EU). The UK will cease to be party to the EU's free trade and investment agreements with some 70 countries and SA stands to be affected by this. For more clarity we spoke to John Forrest, a former regional and multi-lateral union trade negotiator for the UK government with the World Trade Organisation, who now heads up International Trade at DLA Piper
A grade 11 learner has been stabbed to death at a school in Mondeor south of Johannesburg. Sashin Naidoo gives us the latest
A child-headed family from Boitumelo township in the Vaal has accused the police of not doing enough to bring to justice the man, who allegedly murdered their sister, Palesa Mokhele. They say 24-year-old Mokhele was allegedly killed by her boyfriend in May last year -- around the same time Karabo Mokoena was brutally murdered by her boyfriend -- Sandile Mantsoe. The Mokhele's says the suspect is known to them and still roams the streets of Boitumelo township.
In the wake of the so-called resurrection there are fresh allegations against Prophet Alph Lukau's Alleluia Ministries International in Sandton north of Johannesburg. It's emerged that some congregants are being used to fake illnesses and disability during sermons to stage miracles.
SABC CEO Madoda Mxakwe says cash flow is depleted at the public broadcaster and they have been engaging with the Department of Communications. He says figures shows that SABC will be in factual solvency by end of March. At the end of February creditor's were owed R1.4 billion including Supersport, SAMRO and Sentech. SABC Executives are appearing in Parliament before the Communications Committee over its turnaround strategy.
Aviation authorities are continuing their investigations into yesterday's Ethiopian Airlines plane crash. The Boeing 737 Max-8 - en route from Addis Ababa to the Kenyan capital, Nairobi crashed six minutes after take-off, killing all 157 people on board.
Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi addressed teachers, learners and parents at Crystal Park High following a video footage depicting some girl learners assaulting another girl learner. The video went viral on social media.
The government of the Bahamas has agreed to release the body of 29-year-old South African woman who died in the country. Nobuhle Bhengu from Umlazi south of Durban, was working on a cruise ship when she fell ill and was admitted to a hospital in the Bahamas. The government has been refusing to release her body since she died in February and planned to cremate it over concerns that her unexplained illness could be contagious.
:There is victory for people in same sex relationships and are members of the Dutch Reformed Church. The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria this morning overturned the church's decision not to recognise same-sex unions within the church. Same sex marriages have been legal in South Africa since 2006. We spoke to Laurie Gaum who is a Minister of the Dutch Reformed Church working in the field of gender equity and reconciliation...
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Michael Masutha approved the parole of Ferdinand Barnard with effect from April 2, this year. Barnard was sentenced to life imprisonment in June 1998 after being convicted on numerous charges including, murder, attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice and unlawful possession of firearms. One of the two murder charges was in connection with the killing of anti-apartheid activists and Wits University academic Dr David Webster in 1989. Webster was shot and killed at the behest of the apartheid police's security branch, the Civil Co-operation Bureau (CCB).
In reaching the decision to grant parole, Minister Masutha says that Mr Barnard has met all requirements for parole
Protest action by students at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in the Eastern Cape, continues today. Students are protesting over registration and accommodation problems at the institution. Students have barricaded various entrances to North and South campuses of the institution. Classes for the day have been postponed until further notice.
Meanwhile Academic activities also remain suspended at the Tshwane University of Technology. The university resolved yesterday to close all academic programmes for students with immediate effect, until further notice. Student are protesting over unpaid meal allowances and insufficient residences. TUT has instructed students at all nine campuses to clear their residences as soon as possible, for their own safety.
There is a new SASSA scam, preying and ripping off pensioners of their garnts. A 77 year Hleziphi Thwala has allegedly been defrauded of her SASSA money for about three months. She alleges that when she went to withdraw at the end of January, there was no money.
EFF leader Julius Malema has accused eNCA journalist Karima Brown of being a state security spy. This after Brown accidentally wrote an editorial note on the EFF's WhatsApp media group last night which was directed to her media house. In it, Brown directs the group to monitor Malema's event on the East Rand where he met with the elderly to hear their grievances ahead of the May 8 polls. The EFF leader says Brown is out to destroy the political party.
The challenges the country's educators are facing are under the spotlight today as the South African Council for Educators (SACE) launches a campaign on teachers' rights, responsibilities and safety. This comes after a spike in what the council says are attacks directed at teachers from both learners and parents. The aim is to create awareness on the rights and responsibilities of teachers. Recently there have been incidents involving learners and teachers at schools.
Update at noon has exclusively learnt that Mandla Maphumulo (MAMPINTSHA) has spent at least one night at the Onomo hotel in Durban and checked out this morning. Earlier today National Police Commissioner General Khehle Sitole gave the assurance that the arrest of musician Mandla Maphumulo, who is known as Mampintsha is imminent. Our producer Aphiwe Honono called the hotel and was transferred to Mampintsha's room and briefly spoke to him. 10 minutes later the hotel confirmed that he has checked out of the hotel. Mampintsha was arrested a short while later.
Brigadier Vish Naidoo; Spokesperson for the National Police Commissioner, General Kehla Sitole says anybody can open a case on behalf of Babes Wodumo, however a statement from her is preferable. This after a video went viral showing the popular Wololo hit maker being beaten by musician Mampintsha. Naidoo adds that a senior police officer has been assigned to investigate.
says the National Commissioner has ordered police to trace the whereabouts of Babes Wodumo so that statement can be obtained from her and a case opened. Brigadier Naidoo also says that anyone can open a case but a statement from Babes Wodumo is preferred.
The sister of Bongekile Simelane, whose known as Babes Wodumo - Nondumiso Simelane has confirmed that her Boyfriend and Manager Mandla Maphumulo - AKA Mampintsha did indeed assualt the artist. The video which has since gone viral on social media show Mampintsha slappng Babes Wodumo during what appears to be an argument between the two. Babes Wodumo appears to have strategically placed her mobile phone in her bedroom to record the abuse. She is seen crying after being slapped. Our Producer Aphiwe Honono Spoke to Nondumiso earlier and this is what she had to say..
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Khehla John Sitole, has instructed the Limpopo provincial police to mobilize the 72-Hour Activation Plan in the brutal killing of 27 year old Thoriso Themane. Themane was beaten up by a group of teenagers, aged between 15 &16 at a park in Flora Park suburb in Polokwane on Saturday. The perpetrators took a video of the incident and posted it on social media. Five learners from different schools in Polokwane have since been arrested. We spoke to the Spokesperson for the National Commissioner of Police Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo...
Former property mogul, Jason Rohde, has been sentenced to 18 years in jail for the murder of his wife, Susan, in the High Court in Cape Town. She was murdered at the Spier Wine Estate near Stellenbosch in July 2016. Judge Gayaat Salie-Hlophe also sentenced Rohde to five years for obstructing the ends of justice.
Kwa Zulu Natal premier Willis Mchunu has been rushed off stage after taking ill while delivering his state of the province address. Mchunu had just taken to the podium but was rushed out of the venue.
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane says Finance Minister Tito Mboweni was incorrect in defending Treasury DG Dondo Mogajane, by saying that he merely failed to disclose a traffic fine when applying for the DG post. Mboweni was speaking at a media briefing ahead of his 2019 budget speech. He said his department supported Mogajane and that he would take Mkhwebane's report on judicial review. However the Public Protector said in a statement that Mogajane was convicted in a court of law and had failed to disclose this in his application. We speak to the Public Protector spokesperson Oupa Segalwe.
Ajay Gupta is no longer a fugitive from justice. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed his arrest warrant against him for corruption has been cancelled. This means he can return to SA without fear of arrest. We reached out to both the NPA and the Hawks for further clarity on this matter but they have both passed the buck to each other. The hawks have referred us to the NPA while the NPA has also done the same. We spoke to Forensic Investigator and Founder of Forensics for Justice Paul O'Sullivan for his reaction.
Over 80-million Nigerians are expected to vote for a new president, national assembly and state legislators this weekend. President Muhammadu Buhari is one of 73 presidential candidates! But over-shadowing the general elections is fact that Nigeria overtook India last year as the country with the most people living in extreme poverty - on less than R30 a day. And that's despite the fact that India's population is more than six times bigger than Nigeria's. The BBC's James Copnall visited a shanty town in Lagos to speak to some Nigerians struggling to make a living. We also spoke to Executive Director Youth Africa Rotimo Olawole regarding tomorrow’s elections.
Some South African are still shocked this afternoon following accusations by COPE leader Mosiuoa Lekota that president Cyril Ramaphosa gave information to the apartheid special branch about his comrades and that he was in turn rewarded by spending less time in prison. He said this happened during their arrest in 1976 as young anti-apartheid activists. Lekota made the claim during the debate on Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address in Parliament.
The bodies of seven more illegal miners have been recovered at the Gloria Coal Mine in Middelburg. This brings the number of miners killed after being trapped under ground to 12. Bad weather conditions have hampered recovery operations. Mine rescue practitioner, Mike Elliot, says the process of pumping fresh air into the mine shafts will continue throughout the day. Fifteen more people are still believed to be trapped underground.
The National Union of Mineworkers says its shocked at the news of the unbundling of Eskom by President Ramaphosa. The unon, says the unbundling of Eskom will be an expensive exercise which will push Eskom further into debt. NUM further called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to dissolve the current ESKOM Board. NUM General Secretary David Siphunzi says their members are angry and they no longer guarantee that they will vote for the ruling party ANC.
We speak to Thembi Nkadimeng, who sought to compel the NPA to make a prosecutorial decision in the 1983 murder of her sister, Nokuthula Simelane, by Security Branch officers reacts to TRC writing to President Cyril Ramaphosa urging him to institute Inquiry into "the political interference that has stopped the investigation and prosecution of virtually all the cases referred by the TRC to the NPA".
Former members of Truth & Reconciliation Commission have written to President Cyril Ramaphosa, urging him to institute Inquiry into "the political interference that has stopped the investigation and prosecution of virtually all the cases referred by the TRC to the NPA". They want President Ramaphosa to apologise to apartheid victims who have been denied justice. We speak to the Executive Director Foundation for Human Rights South Africa and former TRC commissioner, Yasmeen Sooka.
The ANC says it will study the recent High Court judgment that has reinstated the North West Provincial Executive Committee before it deals with the matter internally. Last year, the National Executive Committee deemed the PEC led by Chairperson Supra Mahumapelo unlawful and disbanded it. However, this morning Judge Fayeeza Kathree-Setiloane found that the ANC had been procedurally unfair in reaching its decision to disband the North West PEC and had flouted its own constitution. In a statement - the ANC says it will take action in due course but in the meantime called for North West members to focus on mobilising support for the upcoming elections.
Former ANC North West Chairperson is due to be reinstated to the helm of that province's Provincial Executive Committee in the next two days. This follows a judgement in the High Court in Johannesburg today that declared that the decision by the ANC's NEC in August last year to disband the provincial structure was unlawful. Judge Fayeeza Kathree-Setiloane found that the ANC had been procedurally unfair in reaching its decision to disband the North West PEC and had flouted its own constitution....
The SRC at DUT is calling on management to attend to students' issues, including financial aid, accommodation and transport. Classes at UKZN, Mangosuthu University of Technology and the University of Zululand were also disrupted. Meanwhile, in Gauteng, the Wits University's students' representative council has condemned management for its use of private security. They say private security officials on campus are victimizing and intimidating students who are protesting over accommodation and registration-related issues.
Structural engineers are expected to brief the Department of Education on their assessment following the collapse of a walkway at Hoërskool Driehoek in Vanderbijlpark. A large cement walkway at the school caved in on Friday, killing three teenagers instantly and leaving more than 20 injured. Another pupil died in hospital on Saturday. The Department's Spokesperson Steve Mabona spoke to Leeanne Mannes on Morning live this morning and said engineers visited the school on Sunday to determine which areas are safe to use in terms of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act.
The 10AM deadline has come and passed for Vodacom to respond to the #PleaseCallMe Movement's demands - for the telecommunications giant to resolve the stalemate with Nkosana Makate. Vodacom has been embroiled in a protracted legal battle with Makate, who was an employee of the firm when he thought of the 'Please call Me' idea. Meanwhile, the South African Police Service has blocked protestors from entering VodaWorld in Midrand, Johannesburg. Vodacom spokesperson, Byron Kennedy, says they have suspended operations for the day amid the protests
Former BOSASA employee, Richard Le Roux continues to spill the beans at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in Parktown, Johannesburg. ANC Chairperson and Mineral Resources Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has for the first time been implicated in the BOSASA scandal which is unfolding before the commission. He has been named in the 'Special Projects' box - along with ANC MP Vincent Smith and former SAA Chair, Dudu Myeni. Environmental Affairs Minister Nomvula Mokonyane’s name also continues to be mentioned.
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Trade union AMCU says its workers remain resolute even though mining company Sibanye Stillwater is refusing to accede to their demand of a wage increase. Workers in the gold sector have been on a two month strike following a deadlock between the parties. Members of AMCU working in the platinum belt have been given the go-ahead to embark on a sympathy strike which starts next week Tuesday. Their number stands at a strong 12 thousand with the union being the majority in the company's platinum sector. We spoke to AMCU president Joseph Mathunjwa and spokesperson of Sibanye Stillwater, James Wellsted.
Social media and phone lines have been closed down in Zimbabwe as the national shutdown enters its second day. Three people have so far reportedly died after police allegedly used live ammunition while scores more have been injured. 200 others have been arrested. The protest has been sparked by a sharp rise in the price of petrol which in rand terms amount to R43/liter. Zimbabweans took to the streets yesterday demanding that president Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently out of the country leave office.
Thousands of black homeownwers have allegedly been overcharged by First National Bank (FNB). This is according to a Financial Investigator Emerald Van Zyl. Van Zyl insists that the home loan accounts were inherited by FNB when it took over the bond book of failed finance provider Saambou in 2002. He says he's been fighting these overcharges since he discovered his own bond had been miscalculated and that thousands of his clients had been overcharged by the bank too, He says black home buyers suffered far more excessively than whites.
Protests have erupted in the Zimbabwean capital, Harare, following the staggering increases in the price of fuel this weekend. President Emmerson Mnangagwa says the increases are aimed at addressing a shortfall caused by increased gasoline demands and rampant illegal trade. In Rand terms, it costs over 43-rand to buy a litre of petrol. These Zimbabweans have expressed outrage, and are calling for government to step down
Twenty-three members of two rival groups of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church arrested for various charges including public violence and assault will appear in the Mokerong Magistrate's Court in Limpopo today. They were arrested in Danisani village in Mapela at the weekend after a fight broke out between the two rival groups during a church service. Police officers confiscated more than 20 petrol bombs and a knife when they arrested the suspects. We speak to our reporter, Michael Makungo...
Four men are expected to appear in the Tembisa Magistrates Court in Ekurhuleni today, for their alleged involvement in a jobs scam. They allegedly posed as metro police officials and sold jobs to over one hundred people for fifteen thousand rand each. The suspects were arrested in Tembisa on Friday during a sting by the Joburg Metro Police Department. The students who paid to get jobs are from different provinces. We speak to JMPD spokesperson Waynne Minaar.
Several learners from the Stilfontein Hoërskool outside Klersdorp in the North west stayed at home today after Friday's protests at the school over alleged racism against black learners. Some black learners accuse management of only progressing white learners to the next grades despite both groups performing relatively poor last year. However, for those that reported for school, learning is continuing. we speak to our reporter in the North west, Lucas Mothibedi...
The battle between Nkosana Makate who has sued network provider Vodacom over his "please call me" idea continues. Makate has denied the company's claim this past weekend, that the two parties have reached an agreement on the settlement amount, saying they are only waiting for his banking details. Makate says he has not agreed to what he says is a shocking and insulting offer. Vodacom claims that the agreement was reached in October last year. We speak to Nkosana Makate....
The ANC top leadership is wrapping up its interaction with various communities in KwaZulu-Natal ahead of the party's election manifesto launch in Durban tomorrow. Meanwhile, The ANC Moses Mabhida Region has taken the mother body to court. They are demanding the disbandment of the Regional Task Team. It was formed after the dissolution of the Regional Executive Committee in 2018.
The Enlightened Christian Gathering church of Prophet Shepherd Bushiri has just briefed the media about the unfortunate incident that claimed three lives during a stampede in December. The church also highlighted internal investigations and mechanisms put in place to avoid a repeat of a similar incident in the future. This here is the update from the church's spokesperson Manyard manyowa.....
The Women in Ministry Consultation of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa says it can no longer be business as usual in the church with men continuing to practice patriarchy. The women have addressed the media in Bruma in the East rand. They marched to the Methodist Connexional Office this morning saying women are still treated as lesser beings by men in the church and that this is reflected in the senior leadership. This march follows comments by one of the Methodist Church leaders, Reverend Vukile Mehana in a recording which has since gone viral. Minister Libuseng Lebaka-Ketshabile says Mehana is yet to apologise to the women of the church directly, a week after he issued an apology on social media.
A learner has committed suicide due to alleged bullying by a teacher at Vorentoe high school . Nicole Mnguni took her life Tuesday after returning from school to fetch her report which the school refused to give her. Mnguni is said to have been a victim of harassment and bullying by her Mathematics teacher the school is aware of the case but had not taken any action to address. It has also emerged that Mnguni is not the only victim of this teacher, as many other learnes have since spoken out about the ill treatment they've experienced from the same teacher.
Parents of learners at the Schweizer Reneke Laer Skool in the North West have fetched their children from the school in panic following allegations of racism against it. Education MEC Sello Lehare visited the school to investigate the allegations. Aaron Motswana, the mayor of the Mamusa Local Municipality in which the school is situated says people must not rush to conclusion after seeing the photo that is circulating on social media. The photo, which has gone viral, shows a group of black grade R learners separated from their white classmates.
The leader of the Engagement for Citizenship and Development party Martin Fayulu, has questioned the legitimacy of the results of the November 30 elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Election authorities in that country announced Felix Tshisekedi, who is a veteran politician and has been Joseph Kabila's rival for years, as the provisional winner. The Constitutional Court is yet to endorse the results. Fayulu says he does not believe that Tshisekedi managed to secure 7 million votes. The DRC's former coloniser France is also doubting the outcome. However, Congolese nationals living in Joburg, South Africa, are happy about the results.
The Independent Electoral Commission says it has obtained residential addresses of over 21-million voters. CEO Sy Mamabolo says 83 per cent of the names on the voters' roll have full address details. The issue has been before the Constitutional Court which recently extended the deadline to update the address details of voters. Mamabolo says they have until November to collect this information and can do so even on voting day. Mamabolo explains some of the progessses made in preparation for this year's elections
There has been several interesting developments in both Africa and the world, from the DRC elections, to the attempted coup in Gabon and developments in America and the UN. The SABC's UN Correspondent Sherwin Bryce-Pease and SABC Foreign Desk Editor Sophie Mokoena tell us more
Civic organisation SANCO will meet with the City of Tshwane to discuss the future of prophet Shepherd Bushiri's Enlightened Christian Gathering Ministry in Pretoria. SANCO Tshwane regional chairperson, Abraham Mashishi, says they will also ask the Hawks, the City of Tshwane and chapter nine institutions to investigate the finances and legality of the church. Members of SANCO have been protesting outside the church at the Tshwane Events Centre since the weekend after three women died and nine others were injured during a stampede on December 28th. We speak to Chaiperson of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CLR) Thoko Mkwanazi- Xaluva.
Learning and teaching has been disrupted by parents at Tikhontele Secondary School in Matsulu east of Mbombela in Mpumalanga. The parents are demanding that the school curriculum be changed. The Maths and Science school obtained 45% matric pass rate last year. An urgent meeting with the parents and the Department of Education was called to resolve the impulse.
The re-opening of schools for Grade 12 learners at Letshega-Molokwane High School at Ga-Matlala in Limpopo has started on a low note. The school obtained a zero percent pass rate after the twelve learners, who sat for final matric exams, failed. Low learner enrollment is said to have been the biggest contributor to the dismal performance.
The Eastern Cape Health Department has received a boost for health care delivery. This follows the appointment of 1 240 newly qualified health professionals from the national department. These include 179 medical interns; 130 Community Service Doctors and 654 Community Service Nurses. This comes at a time when the province battles with major staff shortages in the public health service. The province has employed over 9 000 nurses and more than 1 000 doctors to service an estimated seven million people in the province. Aphiwe Honono presents this report which was compiled by Makhaya Komisa.
The funeral service of the four children who were allegedly killed by their mother in Klarinet at Emalahleni, Mpumalanga on boxing day, took place this morning at Pretoria Memorial Park graveyard in Emalahleni. The children aged between 11 months and 8 years were found wrapped in blankets inside her house. The Maditla family says it has forgiven the mother 24-year old Zintle Maditla who appeared in court yesterday. Our reporter Sibongile Mkani- Mpolweni filed this report earlier during the funeral proceedings.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged church leaders to help the ANC and show it the way when it stumbles. He was addressing the candle-light ceremony to mark the ANC's 107th birthday at the Central Methodist Church in the Durban CBD earlier this morning. In his address, the president said the ANC belongs to the church and it must humble itself at all times.
Officials from the Department of Higher Education are expected to meet with the leadership of the South African Union of Student to discuss among other issues, threats by the student body, of disruptions. SAUS says there will be chaos should the National Student Financial Aid Scheme not extend the deadline for applications. So far it has received over 400 000 applications. Krivani Pillay spoke to the Department of Higher Education's Lunga Ngqengelele.
Metrorail has confirmed that three people have died following a train accident in Mountain View, Pretoria. More than three hundred others have been injured. A train is said to have collided into the back of another. Charles Mabaso from the Emergency Services gave update on the accident.
A Mpumalanga woman who has been charged with murdering her four children in Klarinet in Emalahleni, Mpumalamga has appeared briefly in court in Witbank. She handed herself over to the police after allegedly killing the children aged between 11 months and 8 years old last month. 24-year-old Zintle Maditla will be back in court next week. Our reporter Eric Lubisi was in court.
The University of South Africa UNISA, has blamed a computer systems error for offering course which are not accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority. Students who had registered for certain programmes gathered outside the institution's Pretoria offices earlier today to get clarity about this. The institution says it working on the problem. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to UNISA's Martin Ramotshela.
Trade union NUM says the people who have been tasked with handling the process of putting the Gupta-owned Optimum Coal Mine have been ignoring their attempts to engage and understand where the process is currently. Affected workers and union leaders met in Middleburg, Mpumalanga today after they did not receive their salaries again at the end of last month. They staged a protest in November as they faced a bleak holiday seasons but were still not paid. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Richard Mguzulu.
The IEC has started counting votes following a list conference of ANC members in the North West. There has been delays after violence broke out on Saturday. More than 400 delegates from four regions voted. Our reporter Bafedile Moerane is there and she spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
In what is considered uncommon in South African courts, an 8-year old girl is asking to address the Durban High Court in a custody battle between her parents. Currently her father has full custody, but she does not want to live with him anymore. A video filmed at the Durban High Court in which she demands to live with her mother, has received a great deal of attention on social media. Prabashini Moodley reports.
Energy expert Ted Blom says the government must stop interfering in the operations of Eskom. Blom says that the power utility will start implementing load shedding later this month. He says the company is using poor quality coal and is not mantaining its systems. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Trade union SADTU says parents, teachers and training institutions need to do more to ensure an improved foundation phase education. This follows the release of the 2018 matric results last night. Yesterday, Minister for Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, announced the overall pass rate was seventy-eight-point-two-percent with the best performing province being Gauteng. She was joined by stakeholders in the education sector as well as some of the country's top learners at a function in Midand.
During a surprise raid at the Leeuwkop Prison in Johannesburg, Correctional Services officials have discovered that an inmate was sewing prison warders' uniforms in his cell. They also found other banned objects in various cells during the unannounced visit. Deputy Minister, Thabang Makwetla, says this is part of their festive season safety campaign to rid prisons of contraband. Ditaba Tsotetsi was there..
The quality assurance body, Umalusi says it is satisfied with the 2018 matric final exams despite slight irregularities reported in Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. The body briefed the media on it's preparedness to approve the release of the 2018 matric results. Almost eight hundred thousand learners sat for the final schooling year examinations this year. Umalusi CEO Dr Mafu Rakometsi briefed the media in Pretoria on their readiness to release the results
The City of Cape town says it will not allow the slaughter of any animal at its Clifton Beach during the sunset protest this evening. This follows a declaration by the Black People's National Crisis Committee that a cow will be slaughtered during their protest in order to cleanse the beach of what they call racist spirits. The demonstration is in response to the removal of beach-goers from the area over the weekend, allegedly by private security company PPA. PPA has denied the accusation and says it was the City's law enforcement officials who actually closed the beach. the Deputy Minister of Police, Bongani Mkongi, will visit the area later today to determine the exact circumstances. Richard Bosman is the Executive Director for safety and security in the City of Cape Town
The Black People's National Crisis Committee says it will stage a protest march at Cliftin Beach today even though it does not have permission to do so. The march follows allegations that security guards from Professional Protection Alternatives, or PPA instructed beachgoers and vendors to leave the beach on Sunday evening citing crime. Those who were at the beach say they were being targeted because they were black. The company which is being contracted by the local residents association says beachgoers were not forced to leave but merely advised that there were criminals in the area. There were allegations that a rape had taken place but the police say no complaint was registered with them. I earlier spoke to Ncedisa Mpemnyama from the Black People's National Crisis Committee on Morning Live who says no one has the right to bar others from accessing public spaces.
Security company PPA has denied allegations that its officers instructed beach-goers and vendors to leave Clifton Beach in Cape Town on Sunday evening. Picknickers raised the alarm this week saying they were told they should leave the beach because of crime in the area and that they could not access it after 8pm. Concerned citizens have now organised protests for tomorrow and Saturday. PPA is contracted by the local residents association to patrol the area. For more on this we are joined on the line by the company's legal representative Bruce Hendricks.
A blind albino woman from Garankuwa north of Pretoria, says she fears for her life. She says her neighbour is intolerant of people living with albinism, and threatens her. The mother of two alleges that he had on numerous occassions threatened to kill her, and use her body parts for muti purposes. She says the man is ignoring a protection order issued against him by police. Maluti Obuseng reports.
Local and international hair brands are diversifying their product range in the wake of an increase in the number of consumer that have resorted to natural hair. According to new research by market intelligence Mintel relaxer sales have dropped by almost forty percent internationally. In South Africa the sales have dropped by twenty percent. Cosmetic and hair retailers, including hair saloon owners have noted a decrease in the use of relaxers as more and more black consumers-especially women choose natural hair. Amina Accram reports.
A historic moment for South Africa and Its Space Programme, as the satelite named ZaCube-2 was successfully launched in the early hours of this morning. According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, ZACube-2 is regarded as the continent's most advanced cube satelite and is expected to provide cutting-edge remote sensing and communication services to South Africa and the region. Weighing just 4kg, the ZACube-2 is South Africa's second nanosatellite to be launched into space and three times the size of its predecessor, TshepisoSat. To tell us more aobut the launch and the satelite, we are joined on the line by the Deputy Director General for Technology Innovation, at the Science and Technology department, Mmboneni Muofhe.
The Gauteng government says it's working on ensuring that former MEC Khabisi Mosunkuthu is granted a special official provincial funeral. Mosunkuthu died on Christmas eve at the age of 69. He had not been well after suffering a stroke last year. A high-level ANC delegation comprising of treasurer-general Paul Mashatile and provincial deputy chairperson and acting premier Panyaza Lesufi visited Mosunkuthu's family in Kibler Park, south of Johannesburg today (Wednesday) to pay their respects. Zoleka Qodashe compiled this report.
The Johannesburg Emergency Services Department has called on residents to use firecrackers responsibly. This comes as the year draws to a close and firecracker sales are expected to increase ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations. The department says it wants to ensure that children and animals are protected. Elvis Presslin spoke to Joburg EMS' Robert Mulaudzi.
A private security company operating at Clifton's Fourth Beach in Cape Town has raised the ire of beach-goers and vendors alike. Beach-goers were allegedly instructed to leave the beach on Sunday evening. The City of Cape Town says the company does not have the power to close beaches or restrict access. Mlamli Maneli reports.
The Alfred Nzo Municipality says it views the incident in which an elderly woman was burnt to death at Brooksneck village in the Eastern Cape, as the abuse of vulnerable women in vIllages. It's alleged that the 75-year-old woman was accused of practicing witchcraft. This is the second incident in the area, in the recent weeks. At the beginning of this month, two sisters, also accused of practicing witchcraft, were set alight and later died. Elvis Presslin spoke to Alfred Nzo Municipality spokesperson Lubabalo Majenge.
The National Sea Rescue Institute has urged members of the public to swim where there are lifeguards. This follows the drowning of a man at Buffalo Bay in Kynsna in the Western Cape yesterday afternoon. This was one of several such incidents which also saw the death of a child. Elvis Presslin spoke to the NSRI’s Craig Lambinon.
Emergency officials have warned the public to take extra caution today as the heatwave continues in most provinces today. Gauteng, western Mpumalanga, Free State, North West province, the Northern Cape and the north-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal are the wosrt affected. Officials have warned that children and the elderly are the most vulnerable. Elvis Presslin spoke to ER24's Russel Meiring.
Former senior ANC official in Gauteng, Khabisi Mosunkuthu, has died at the age of 69. The cause of death has not yet been released, but he had suffered a stroke last year. Mosunkutu resigned from the Gauteng provincial legislature in 2011 after more than a decade as a member of the executive in various portfolios. He served as an MEC for community safety, for public transport, roads and works and for the department of agriculture, conservation and environment. Wisani Makhubele has more.
The Khoisan six who undertook a long walk from Port Elizabeth to Pretoria are demanding recognition of their culture and language. They are staging a sit-in protest at the Union Buildings for 26 days since 30th November and are willing to wait as long as it takes to meet the President Cyril Ramaphosa to get feedback of their memorandum of demands that was delivered in December 2017. The groups leader Chief Khoisan SA, says their demands have yet to receive attention from the President. Yesterday they were planning to hand over the list of demands to the front desk of the Union Buildings.
Former President Jacob Zuma has accused the state of being inconsistent by paying legal fees for apartheid era generals while refusing to fund his legal battles. Earlier this month, a full bench of the Pretoria High Court, led by deputy judge president Aubrey Ledwaba, ruled that Zuma is not entitled to state funding in his legal battle. The court upheld the application by the DA and EFF to set aside an earlier agreement by the Presidency authorising state funding for Zuma's defence in criminal cases. But Zuma says it is strange that apartheid-era killers were assisted by state, but the very same state is refusing to help him. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Transnet has been left to count millions of rand as losses after its railway line was cut at eLubana in Nseleni outside Richard's Bay in northern Kwazulu-Natal. This caused a 200 wagon coal train to derail, damaging 51 carriers. Fanele Mhlongo reports.
Some political parties and various leaders in Parliaments have extended their best wishes to South Africans and Christians who observe Christmas Day. Among them are the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, NFP, ACDP, UDM and the Freedom Front Plus, we also spoke to Chief Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela about the Mvezo annual Christmas party and our reporter Mcebisi Nqina was at the Dora Ngiza hospital's paediatric unit where Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World brought gifts and food for hospitalised children.
This festive season, the bulk of bargains and sales took place in large markets on the edges of the city of Johannesburg. SABC News set out to see what the economic geography of Johannesburg can teach us about low prices and large markets. Naledi Ngcobo reports.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) says there are high traffic volumes on roads leading towards the country's borders. This is expected as more holidaymakers head to their various destinations in time for Christmas celebrations. Motorists have once again been advised to drive with cautious as the death tolls continues to rise currently sitting at more 760. Traffic authorities say they are ensuring more police visibility as a way to curb the road deaths. Elvis Presslin spoke to the RTMC's Simon Zwane.
Deputy President, David Mabuza, says people should close this year with optimism that 2019 will be a good year for the country. He made the call in his Christmas message to South Africans. Mabuza has urged people to make the most of this festive season.
The owner of David Frost Safety, David Frost says the new Evidential breath Alcotest Machine which has been launched by the Joburg Metro Police Department has to comply with the required scientific standards. The device will provide a printout containing information about the driver's level of sobriety which will be used in court. The 2018 road death toll has risen by 16% so far when compared to last year's figures at this time of the festive season with the numbers currently sitting at 767.
The legal representative of former SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane says their legal battle is important in order to clear up issues around the challenges against the president's powers to fire SARS bosses. Moyane filed an application at the Constitutional Court to appeal the High Court ruling this morning. This came a week after the North Gauteng High Court dismissed with costs Moyane's application to appeal his removal from office following a damning Nugent report. Judge Hans Fabricius said President Cyril Ramaphosa was within his rights to fire Moyane. However Moyane's lawyer Eric Mabuza felt that Fabricius made errors and committed mistakes when he delivered that judgement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Moyane's lawyer Eric Mabuza.
The Man and Boy Foundation says the increase in initiate deaths is a result of excluding traditional leaders from the process. This comes after the arrest of twelve traditional surgeons in the Eastern Cape as the death tolls stands at 24. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mamkeli Ngam who is the Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department spokesperson.
The 26-year old man who has been arrested for raping his friend's 15-year old daughter is expected to apply for bail tomorrow. He was arrested in Baberton, Mpumalanga on Monday after being on the run for two days. He was also sought in connection with the assault of the child's father which took place four days before the rape. Our reporter Motsebi wa Monareng is following the story.
An asylum seeker who has entered illegally and fails to apply without delay is still entitled to apply for asylum under the Refugees Act. This is according to a constitutional court ruling, made in the case of Ruta vs Minister of Home Affairs. Alex Ruta is a Rwandan national who worked for the Rwanda National Security Services. He was sent to South Africa by his superiors in 2014 but he had to enter the country illegally because he did not have a visa. Once in South Africa, Ruta learned that his task from Security Services was to assassinate members of the exiled opposition party, the Rwanda National Congress. He said he immediately reported this to the Hawks who put him under witness protection while an investigation was opened. Ruta said he told the Hawks that he wanted to apply for an asylum permit, but he was never given an opportunity to apply. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Wayne Ncube who is an Attorney with Lawyers for Human Rights.
Three senior managers have resigned from waste management company Pikitup. They are the Managing Director, the Chief Operations Officer and the board chairperson. Tshepo Phagane is on the story.
The landlord of the Soweto woman who allegedly poisoned herself and her three children has told Update At Noon that he ccanot say for certain that she had financial problems as claimed. The woman and her two children are being treated at different hospitals after rat posion was found in their home. The elder child who was 13-years old died on the way to hospital.
In the latest leadership battle facing the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), the Narias Moloto faction has shot down the elective congress outcome held in Kimberley, Northern Cape where new leader Mzwanele Nyhontso was elected. The leaders of the two faction came to the SABC's Agenda programme to each state their case. Speaking to the Shows anchor, Desiree Chauke, Narius Moloto argued that the recent conference is illegitimate and illegal.
The South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) says it has laid a complaint against the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) at the Equality Court for comments that its leaders and supporters have been making against journalists. SANEF says although criticism of the media is acceptable, the comments have been abusive, intimidating and amoun to hate speech. It says the EFF leadership is not interested in having a meeting to discuss this matter.
Airline CemAir insists that it did comply with the regulations of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SAACA) but claims that the organisation did not cooperate when it had questions around its reasons for grounding the airline. CemAir has been given until airline CemAir until 5pm today to give information regarding its safety measures regarding the weight of the plane and how it is calculated. This comes after a court order which lifted a temporary suspension by CAA which also stated that the parties must find a solution themselves after the company’s planes were grounded for failure to comply. The Aviation Authority discovered this when it conducted an audit of the company’s planes last week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SA Civil Aviation Authority’ s Executive: Corporate Services Phindiwe Gwebu.
Former PRASA acting CEO, Collins Letsoalo says the apology by the Sunday Times is not enough. Letsoalo has announced that he is suing the state-owned entity for unfairly dismissing him and that he will also be going after the DA for calling him a thief, former PRASA board chair, Popo Molefe in his personal capacity as well as Sunday Times Journalist, Caiphus Kgosana. The paper published an apology on Sunday, retracting the article after the Auditor-General revealed that a report the paper used was fake. Letsoalo has now called on the police to find the individual behind the fabricated Auditor General report. Letsoalo says his life is in danger because of his opposition to wrongdoing at the agency that also led to his dismissal following a now-retracted newspaper report. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Rand Water and the Tshwane metro have called on the community of Centurion in Pretoria to use water sparingly. The supply of water will be limited from this Thursday because of the low levels of water in reservoirs that are a result of too much consumption. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Rand Water Spokesperson, Justice Mohale.
Scores of shops selling fake goods have been closed down by Joburg Metro Police following several raids. This comes on the back of an announcement by the City of Joburg mayor Herman Mashaba that the municipality is making headway in its fight against crime. Mashaba has realeased the city's monthly crime stats for November in the city today. He says money derived from the sale of counterfeit goods is being used to fund other crimes.
Organisers of the first Cannabis Expo in Africa say the overwhelming response from the public pushes government into wholly legalising the plant. Sunday marked the fourth and last day of the expo, which has attracted over 15-thousand people. The expo held at Menlyn in Pretoria comes against the backdrop of the Constitutional Court's recent decriminalization of the use and cultivation of marijuana in private space. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
More court room battles are expected between rival PAC factions following an elective conference held in Kimberley in the Northern Cape this past weekend. Delegates at the three-day meeting voted Mzwanele Nyhontso as the party's new president. He garnered 176 votes. His contenders were Luthando Mbinda and Zamikhaya Gxabe. He beat them by 121 and 28 votes respectively. Nobelungu Nowapane reports.
Retail group Edcon says it is working on a recovery plan after the company faced huge financial problem which could lead to the loss of 140 000 jobs. It has denied a report that it will be closing down and says they are working on a plan. Edcon owns Edgars, Jet and CAN. Wisani Makhubela reports.
The ANC North West List conference is expected to go ahead following violent clashes among delegates in Potchefstroom early this week. The four ANC regions in the province, that include the Dr Ruth Segomosti Mompati region and Dr Kenneth Kaunda region, have been at loggerheads with the Provincial Task Team following the disbandment of the Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) led by former premier Supra Mahumapelo. However, according to former Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Secretary-General, Lopang Rothman, the national appeals committee, led by Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, informed them that the conference is postponed until further notice. To get clarity on the matter, we are joined on the line by the spokesperson for the PTT, Kabelo Mataboge
Eastern Cape police have opened a case of murder and arson after two women accused of witchcraft were burnt to death in Ngonyameni village in EmaXesibeni, formerly known as Mt. Ayliff. The children who were in the house at the time of the attack managed to escape. Their family says the act was carried out by a mob and that incident has left them devastated.
The police have denied allegations that they have failed to assist residents who have been illegally evicted from their homes in Alexandra north of Johanneburg. About two people have been forced from their houses by what has been described as a syndicate. The local Community Policing Forum says they have established that those behind the evictions claim that the victims are not the righful owners of the houses which are part of the Alexandra Renewal Project. Yesterday our reporter Nosipho Mncube spoke to one of the affected people who said that the police have not been helpful. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the police's Brigadier Mathapelo Peters for a response.
The woman dubbed "The Lion Mama" who stabbed three men she found raping her daughter says she is happy about the sentence meted out to the men found guilty of the attack. She was speaking outside the Mthatha High Court sitting at Lady Frere magistrate's court in the Eastern Cape where the men were given a 30 year imprisonment term each. Five years is suspended. Mncedisi Vuba and Xolisa Siyeka were on Tuesday convicted of gang-raping the woman at Qumbu village. Her mother was called to the scene and stabbed the three men who were taking turns raping her. Our reporter Yanga Funani was in court.
A criminal syndicate is allegedly forcing vulnerable families out of their homes, in Alexandra in Northern Johannesburg. So far about 20 families have been forcefully removed from their homes by the gangs, who want to sell their homes to third parties. It is alleged that the police are involved by turning a blind eye to this even after the incidents were reported. The criminals use violence and threaten to shoot those who resist. Ouer reporter Nosipho Mncube is on the story.
Police are hunting for suspects who have been kidnapping children around Gauteng. The provincial Community Safety Department says four cases have been reported in Ekurhuleni, and Pretoria this month with the last incident occurring earlier this week. In all the cases the suspects demanded a ransom and later released the children on receipt of the cash. Those kidnapped were between the ages of six and 17 years. Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane says parents should keep an eye on their children.
The Democratic Alliance says today’s ruling that former president Jacob Zuma should personally pay for his legal costs in his corruption case, is a victory for South Africans who have been footing the bill. The High Court in Pretoria has upheld the application by the DA and EFF to set aside an earlier agreement signed by the presidency, authorising state funding for Zuma's defence in criminal cases. Zuma faces 16 charges of fraud, corruption, money laundering and racketeering stemming from 783 alleged payments to him in relation to the 1990s arms deal. Gauteng Deputy judge president, Aubrey Ledwaba, delivered the judgment this morning.
Police are investigating numerous cases including murder and attempted murder following several attacks believed to be related to the ongoing plastic sector strike. Since the strike started in mid-October, some companies have reported incidences and posted photos on social media of injured workers as well as cars that have been vandalised and set alight. It's believed the attacks might be linked to the strike.
Civil society group Equal Education says both the Satchwell and Manjoo reports have helped them to reflect on what it should have and should do differently as it seeks to fight the scourge of sexual harassment within the organisation. Professor Rashida Manjoo, who was part of the initial investigating panel, but later distaced herself from its report, released her own this week which calls for a more victim-centred approach to dealing with the problem. The Satchwell report cleared former Treasurer Doron Issacs who was accused of sexual harrasment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the organisation's General-Secretary Noncedo Madubedube.
A sexual harassment complaint against the ANC's national spokesperson, Pule Mabe continues this afternoon in Johannesburg. This after Mabe's 26 year old assistant cited two incidents in which she says she resisted his advances. The matter is being heard by the ANC's Internal Grievance Pane. Our reporter Mbali Thethani is on the story.
The City of Mbombela has described as misleading claims made by the DA in Mpumalanga that 1 billion rand is being returned to the coffers of Treasury while there are service delivery problems. The party revealed this week that the municipality only spent 13 percent of its allocation for the 2017/18 financial year. It claims that the City underspent on amongst other things, its infrastructure and electrification programme budgets. The City says this is a misrepresentation of facts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Mbombela's Joseph Ngala.
Formers SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane says he will appeal today's decision by the High Court in Pretoria to dismiss his application to get his job back. Last week, Moyane attempted to have his dismissal overturned and prevent the appointment of of a new commissioner at SARS. President Cyril Ramaphosa fired Moyane following the recommendation of the Nugent commission. Judge Hans Fabricius dismissed Moyane's application with costs.
Judge Mandela Makaula will continue to preside over the rape and kidnapping trial of Ngerian pastor Timothy Omotoso. The Supreme Court of Appeal sitting in Bloemfontein dismissed Omotoso's application to have Judge Makaula of the High Court in Port Elizabeth recuse himself from the case citing bias on the judge's part as the main reason for his application. He and his two co-accused are facing numerous charges, ranging from sexual assault, rape and trafficking for sexual purposes to racketeering. Their case will be back in the High Court in February next year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Prosecuting Authority's Tsepo Ndwalaza.
The former Mayor of the Vhembe District Municipality Florence Radzilani has denied any involvement in the investment of municipal money into the coffers of the embattled VBS Mutual Bank. Radzilani resigned earlier today. Vhembe is one of the mucinipalities that were implicated in the VBS scandal where officials deposited money despite the law stating clearly that they should not do so. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Radzilani.
The Human Rights Commission says although there has been much improvement in the entrenchment of human rights in South Africa, there is still much inequality. This comment follows the release of the commission's annual report on trends in human rights violations in South Africa. The commission says equality rights violations as well as economic and social rights complaints are what dominated their work in the recent years. The commission says it is happy with the number of human rights cases it has been able to resolve in the past five years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to HRC Chairperso, Professor Bongani Majola.
Officials from the Gauteng government are expected to meet their counterparts from the Master of the High Court in order to seek assistance in establishing which family members have a right to receive compensation for the victims of the Esidimeni tragedy which saw 144 people die when the provincial health department moved mental patients to unfit NGOs in a drive to cut costs. The government says several people from the same family have been coming forward to claim for one person and that this has led to delays in payments. The relatives of the victims are staging a protest outside the premier’s office today because they want payments to be made speedily. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Christine Nxumalo who is member of the Life Esidimeni Committee for families.
The Heart and Soul Foundation is urging the business sector to assist people living in informal settlements - by contributing towards painting their dwellings with a fire retardant. This as people continue to donate supplies to a community in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, after a fire swept through hundreds of informal settlements last night. It's alleged that a man started the fire after having a fight with his girlfriend. He was allegedly attacked by community members - and later died in hospital after succumbing to his injuries. NPO's are appealing for donations to help the displaced families. The Heart and Soul Foundation's Managing Director, Welcome Witbooi, says they need financial support to help protect informal settlements - such as the one that was recently burned down...
Uber is calling all local citizens to band together, to help those affected by the Alexandra fires through uberCOMMUNITY. They have made available temporary vehicles called uberCOMMUNITY which will allow Johannesburg locals to request a car that will collect donations for the people of Alex currently trying to rebuild their lives.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura has arrived in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, following a fire that swept through hundreds of informal settlements. It's alleged that a man started the fire after having a fight with his girlfriend. He was allegedly attacked by community members - and later died in hospital after succumbing to his injuries. Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. NPO's are appealing for donations to help the displaced families. Makhura addressed the community members…
The seven ANC mayors in the North West Province who have been recalled by the party's provincial task team, are intending to challenge the move in court. The provincial task team recalled the mayors this week. Four of them are from municipalities implicated in depositing municipal funds in VBS Mutual bank. The other three mayors, have been recalled as their municipalities are said to have collapsed and are unable to provide basic services to the community. The sacked mayors say this is a politically-motivated decision.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has visited Lewisham Primary school on Gauteng's Westrand after a video surfaced of a learner insulting an educator went viral. In the video; the learner can be seen insulting his teacher and refusing to be restrained
A representative of a group of people, who lost their belongings which they had kept in safety deposit boxes at two FNB branches during a robbery, says the bank has been treating them with arrogance. The bank has apparently offered to pay back as little as 5% of the value of their goods after the heists in Randburg and Parktown, in Gauteng. The group's spokesperson Kelly Fraser spoke to Sakina Kamwendo and says there wasn't much consultation.
The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) says it has not written off any money. It reported on its financial results for the year ended 31 March 2018 this morning in Johannesburg, saying its investments portfolio has grown by 8.3% from R 1.6 trillion in 2017 to R1.8 trillion despite the sluggish economy. This follows reports that the fund wrote-off R7.4 billion in investments in Steinhoff. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Abel Sithole, Principal Executive Officer at Government Employees Pension Fund.
Farmers Association Agri SA says it is not necessary to change the Constitution in order to address the issue of land expropriation. The organisation held a media briefing this morning in Centurion, Pretoria. Executive Director Ombri van Zyl says expropriating land without compensation will threaten food security and adds that they will not allow the Constitution to be amended.
The residents of Westbury in Johannesburg say they will intensify their protest action if two community leaders arrested on charges public violence and incitement, are not released. They are currently at Sophiatown police station. The community took to the streets after the release of two suspects arrested in connection with the murder of Heather Peterson in what is suspected to be gang violence. Our reporter Sashin Naidoo was in the area.
The ANC has joined the family of the struggle stalwart, Mendi Msimang, in mourning his passing. Msimang succumbed to cancer, five days before his 90th birthday. The former ANC treasurer-general joined the then liberation movement in exile in 1961. Mbali Thethani reports.
Both parties involved in the Tom Moyane court case will make representations in the North Gauteng High Court tomorrow. This after Judge Hans Fabricius rejected the claim that advocate Wim Trengove has a conflict of interest, as claimed by former SARS boss Tom Moyane's legal defence. The former SARS Commissioner wants to reinstatated seeks to interdict the appointment of his successor. Moyane was fired by President Cyril Ramaphosa last month on the recommendation of Retired Judge Robert Nugent's interim report. Nugent, who chairs the SARS commission of inquiry found that Moyane's tenure at the tax agency had been damaging and advised that Moyane be removed. Advocate Dali Mpofu, who's representing Moyane has complained that Trengove who's representing retired Judge Robert Nugent is in conflict of interest because he is now representing the judge.
A witness in the rape trial of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso, says the public should stop expecting victims of sexual abuse to walk around feeling sorry for themselves. Cheryl Zondi who herself was abused, allegedly by Omotoso, was speaking in Johannesburg during the launch of her foundation. Her initiative has received support from other organisations seeking to end violence against women and children as well the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL).
The Department of Higher Education says it is happy with the progress made in addressing problems in the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. This comes as it prepares for the 2019 funding cycle. The department held a media briefing this morning in Cape Town. Minister Naledi Pandor says the scheme has received more than 400 000 applications for funding for next year. She says a high percentage of the applications came from females with a 63%, while males made up 36% of the total number. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy Director-General in the Department of Higher Dr. Diane Parker.
Discussions about journalism and the media continue today at the Highway Africa conference in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape. This is the 22nd year of the annual meeting of minds. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to various speakers including Siyabonga Africa who is programme officer at the South African Media Innovation Programme, who talked about entrepreneurial journalism.
The EFF says it is considering legal action against the Investigative Journalism Centre, AmaBhungane. This relates to a story that a fleet company that won the City's of Joburg's one-billion-rand contract made payments to a company linked to EFF leader Julius Malema. Ntebo Mokobo reports.
Parties in Parliament have welcomed today’s ruling by the high court in Cape Town which dismissed Afriforum’s application to urgently halt next week’s sitting of the National Assembly and the NCOP to start the process of amending Section 25 of the Constituin which deals with the expropriation of land without compensation. The lobby group went to court to argue that close to 180 000 written submissions were excluded from the process. It says it will pursue the matter because the court did not rule on the merits of its case. Parliament will proceed with the process to amend section 25 of the constitution next week. Our parliamentary correspondent Mercedes Bessent has more.
One of the topics that speaks to this year's theme at Highway Africa Conference currently underway in Makanda is - Radio and the digital Sphere. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the moderator, Kwami Ahiebenu;Executive Director at PenPlusBytes and one of the panelist, Alette Schoon who is the researcher documenting the daily mobile practices..
This year, The Highway Africa Conference taking place at the Rhodes University, Makhanda focuses on focuses on the impact of digital technologies on journalism and the media and, by extension, society. The theme for 2018 is Digital Citizenship: the changing relationship of media and society. We spoke to the organizer of the event Tatenda Chatiboko...
Former South African Airways Board Chair, Cheryl Carolus, has taken the stand at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in Parktown, Johannesburg. Carolus and other board members resigned as board members of SAA in 2012. Carolus said at the time that her relationship with the then Public Enterprises Minister, Malusi Gigaba, had broken down irretrievably. In her testimony today, Carolus says she is disturbed by the events that have occurred in South Africa over the past 10 years. Carolus' evidence is led by advocate Kate Hofmeyr.
11 million children in South Africa are at risk of developing a condition known as stunting because of poor nutrition. Stunting is when children do not develop at the same pace or level as their peers do. The high rate of child poverty and stunting has prompted the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to raise this as a priority for government. One of the ways in which government is trying to remedy this problem is through the child support grant. But as Krivani Pillay asks, is this enough to save the country's children?
Disability rights organisations have called on the government to do more to root out the problem of sexual abuse of children with mental disabilities. An investigation by the SABC 1 Current Affairs programme, Cutting Edge, has uncovered widespread sexual abuse of children with disabilities in special schools in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal. Parents that Cutting Edge spoke to, say their children are emotionally destroyed and their development hampered. Sexual abuse cases involving children with disabilities are often difficult to investigate as the victims are unable to tell police their story. Zimkhita Manqinana filed this report.
ANC national chairperson Gwede Mantashe has started testifying before the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in Parktown, Johannesburg. This after GCIS head Mzwanele Manyi concluded his testimony by saying that his dismantling of the bid adjudication committee at government communication did not flout any regulations. Manyi previously testified that upon arriving at GCIS he found a "mini VBS" taking place. Manyi says all his changes were above board. He earlier requested that evidence leader advocate Vincent Maleka recuse himself saying he is biased against him. Meanwhile commission chairperson and Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has warned against the intimidation of witnesses.
The Special Investigating Unit says it has found that there were irregularities in the awarding of several contracts by the SABC. The SIU briefed Parliament this morning on its probe into public broadcaster's unlawful payments. SIU Head Andy Mothibi has outlined the progress of some of the investigations.
It has emerged at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry that former Finance Minister Des Van Rooyen and his advisor Mohamed Bobat only exchanged contact details shortly before Van Rooyen was sworn-in at the Union Buildings in 2015. This after Nhlanhla Nene was unexpectedly dismissed. Former Director of Communications at Treasury Phumza Macanda has told the commission that this happened in the waiting room where she met both Van Rooyen and Bobat for the first time.
The Global Citizen Festival heads to our shores next week with an all-star concert headlined by Beyoncé & Jay Z, Cassper Nyovest, D'banj, Ed Sheeran, Eddie Vedder, Femi Kuti, Pharrell Williams, Chris Martin, Sho Madjozi, Tiwa Savage, Usher, and Wizkid at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg. Tittled "Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100", the festival will also be in celebration and honour of former president Nelson Mandela's 100th anniversary of his birth. Presented and hosted by the Motsepe Foundation, Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 is a free-ticketed concert. Sakina caught up with founder and CEO of the festival Hugh Evans and business woman Dr Precious Motsepe.
Communications and Broadcast media workers unions CWU and BEMAWU have welcomed the appointment of Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams as new Minister of Communications, Telecommunications and Postal Services. CWU wants her to stand firmly against retrenchments at the SABC and Telkom. BEMAWU also wants her urgent intervention at the SABC. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports.
There has been a low turn out again as members of political parties, religious and traditional leaders well as community members supporting AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Zwelibanzi Dalindyebo marched in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape demanding that he be released. The ''Free the King'' march started at the eNkululekweni to the Freedom Square in the city centre, where a petition will be handed over to a delegation from the Presidency. Dalindyebo was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment in 2015 for arson, attempted murder and defeating the ends of justice. Our reporter Fundiswa Mhlekude is at the march.
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng says the judiciary must receive funding and other support if it is to function optimally. Mogoeng presented the annual report on Judicial Functions for the 2017/18 financial year, at the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg this morning. This is the first time the judiciary is taking the lead in accounting for its work.
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has ruled in favour of the Xolobeni Crisis Committee which represents the people of Umgungundlovu in Xolobeni in the Eastern Cape, who do not want mining in their area. Australian based Mineral Commodities has for years been making attempts to mine the titanium rich land saying there will be economic benefits for the community which some residents claim is not true. The group that is opposed to mining has also raised concerns about damage to the environment and possible displacement from their homes and farms. The group shouted in celebration inside court when the ruling was made. The Department of Mineral Resources, which was the first respondent, has been barred from issuing an operating licence to the company without the consent of the community.
Safety and security at schools is again under the spotlight after a grade one learner was stabbed to death allegedly by a grade eleven learner.The incident occurred at the toilets of the Dikeledi Makapan primary school in Makapanstad north of Pretoria on Wednesday. North West Education MEC Sello Lehari is at this hour meeting with the school authorities and other stakeholders to find out what really happened. The incident has left the locals reeling with shock.
KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC Mthandeni Dlungwana has called for an urgent forensic investigation, after it emerged that the teacher accused of impregnating five learners at a high school in Manguzi was dismissed last year, for another case of sexual relationship with a learner. According to Dlungwana the teacher was dismissed after being found guilty by the department during a disciplinary hearing. The teacher has now impregnated more learners.
North West health workers are allegedly not impressed with the reinstatement of head of department Dr Thabo Lekalakala. Lekalakala was placed on special leave after he was accused of benefiting from the Gupta-linked Mediosa company. The Public Health and Social Development Sectoral Bargaining Council ruled that Lekalakala must be reinstated. Some health workers say they will only go back to work once Lekalakala has been fired.
Former National Treasury director-general Lungisa Fuzile on his 2nd day of testimony, has told the Commission of inquiry in State Capture that Des Van Rooyen "broke tradition" by not attending a formal handover with his predecessor, Nhlanhla Nene. Fuzile was relating how events unfolded during the short period that Van Rooyen was the Finance Minister.....
Civil Society groups have come under severe criticism for the way they deal with sexual harassment, abuse and discrimination of its employees. They've been accused of protecting perpetrators of sexual abuse and gender based violence over the victims. This emerged during a discussion on Confronting Abuse and Gender based violence in the civil society sector organised by Action Aid South Africa in Johannesburg
Lobby group Afriforum has filed court papers to interdict National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete over the process of the Constitutional Review Committee on the expropriation of land without compensation. This comes almost a week after the committee adopted the report which recommends that section 25 of the constitution be amended to facilitate the expropriation of land.
Economist Issac Mashego says South Africa should expect a good trade deal with the UK event after the Brexit deal has been finalised. This comes as EU Ambassadors meet in Brussels, Belgium today to consider the withdrawal plan, which British Prime Minister Theresa May is confident will work. Yesterday three British ministers and Brexit secretary Dominic Raab resigned. Some MPs have made a formal request for a vote of no confidence against May. The exit plan seeks to ensure that Britain leaves the EU by March next year. She spoke to a local radio station in London earlier today. Sound courtesy of the BBC.
Former Cape Town Mayor Patricia De Lille remains cagey about whether she did send an SMS to DA councillor Xanthea Limberg suggesting that processes be bypassed during the appointment of a city manager two years ago. De Lille allegedly wanted Achmat Ebrahim to be given the job. Limberg has laid criminal charges against De Lille at the local police station, but the former mayor who has left the DA, says she is doing so at the instruction of the party. Limberg has denied this.
South Africans should brace themselves for possible load shedding during the festive season. Eskom CEO, Phakamani Hadebe briefed the media on the state of the power system at the utility's head office in Megawatt Park in Johannesburg earlier today saying they're trying to minimise the risk of load shedding but urged consumers to use energy sparingly.
The National Treasury's forensic report has outlined corruption at Transnet and Eskom over the last six years. It pointed former Eskom executives Matshela Koko, Anoj Singh and Suzanne Daniels in wrongdoing at Eskom. The report also looking into the procurement of locomotives at Transnet has recommended that criminal charges be laid against a number of people including former CEOs Siyabonga Gama and Brian Molefe. Pieter du Toit is a journalst with NEWS 24 and he spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The process to find the next National Director of Public Prosecutions is underway at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. In August, it was ruled that the appointment of Shaun Abrahams was unconstitutional and invalid. Acting NDPP, Silas Ramaite, is the first person being interviewed, and was asked about values that need to be upheld at the NPA. Meanwhile, DA MP Glynnis Breytenbach explains reasons why she decided to withdraw from the process for the hunt of the next National Director of Public Prosecutions.
The SABC Board and senior executives are back in Parliament to re-appear before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, SCOPA. The Board was sent back by the financial watchdog last week after presenting what Scopa found to be an ill-prepared presentation which lacked detail. The committee wants to question the board about multi-billion-rand irregular expenditure at the public broadcaster, including more than half a billion rand wasted under the current SABC Board.
There is still no schooling in Koffiefontein since protests that took place last month. Community members are allegedly still preventing learners from attending schools until their demands are met. They demand the mayor to step down. Some of their demands include: high rate of unemployment, that the mine and municipality hire people from outside, bad water quality, road conditions and demand title deeds. More than 72 people were arrested following violent protests.
Former Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan has told the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture that she first learned that South African Airways would be cancelling its Johannesburg-Mumbai route while on a trip to India in June 2010 - at a time when she was minister . Hogan says she immediately contacted then SAA chairperson Cheryl Carolus, to verify the rumours.
Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo says he has granted an order that Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan's evidence be heard on Monday November the 19th. Justice Zondo made the announcement at the commission's hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg, where former Public Enterprises minister Barbara Hogan has resumed her testimony. Justice Zondo did not give any reasons for the postponement of Gordhan's testimony.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that the Reserve Bank can liquidate the assets of VBS Mutual Bank. The bank had made the application last month saying there is no hope of saving the bank following massive looting and fraud amounting to 1.2 billion rand. "The Great Bank Heist" report by advocate Terry Motau also recommended that the bank's operations be wound down. It lists 53 people as having received money from the bank under questionable circumstances. Last week MPs raised questions about why the Reserve Bank was not prepared to put in place a rescue plan for VBS.
Eskom has warned of possible loadshedding due to a constrained power supply system. The power utility says there's insufficient coal supply at its eleven power stations. Eskom says they're currently transporting coal from the Medupi power station in Limpopo to affected power stations in Mpumalanga.
Former president Jacob Zuma wanted Siyabonga Gama appointed as Transnet CEO. Gama was fired by the board last month following allegations that he may have acted unlawfully in the deal involving the purchase of locomotives. This has come out at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry where former Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan has been testifying.
The two suspects facing charges of murdering seven family members in Valkfontein south of Johannesburg last month, will be detained at different facilities after one of them 27-year old Ernest Mabaso alleged that his co-accused 61-year old Fifita Khupe, was threatening him. They pair appeared in the Lenasia Magistrates Court earlier today and their case has been postponed to next Tuesday. Mabaso has also been charged with three counts of rape. Our reporter Gillian Pillay spoke to some neighbours of the deceased.
The Gauteng Education Department is considering suspending the school principal of the Mpontsheng Secondary School in Katlehong in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, following allegations that he gave an answer sheet to learners who were writing the Geography 1 exam paper recently. The alarm was raised by a concerned parents who reported the matter to exam quality body Umalusi. The Department of Basic Education says the principal has been removed as chief invigilator and that the provincial department may suspend him while the probe takes place. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the national department’s Elijah Mhlanga.
The bail application of the two men arrested in connection with the gruesome murder of a Vlakfontein family near Lenasia south of Johannesburg has been adjourned to the 20th of this month. Twenty seven-year-old Ernest Mabaso and 61-year-year-old Fifita Khupe appeared in the Lenasia Magistrate's Court. They are facing seven counts of murder in connection with the murder of seven relatives two weeks ago. Mabaso is facing three additional rape charges
Hundreds of ANC members from the North West are attending the High Court in Johannesburg where Mahumapelo is challenging the NEC's decision to disband their PEC. The members want the NEC's decision to be overturned, claiming it was invalid and irrational. Mahumapela was forced to resign as premier after violent protests erupted to show their dissatisfaction with his leadership. Advocate William Mkhari acting on behalf of the ANC has the following to say in court:
The SABC has distanced itself from a list circulating on social media revealing the names of those who allegedly benefitted from irregular appointments, promotions and salary increases. The organisation is seeking to review the employment contracts that were not enter into legally. This comes as SABC employees embark on lunch-time pickets across the country to protest against the proposed retrenchments. More than 2000 permanent and freelance employees are to lose their jobs if the retrenchments go ahead. SABC COO Chris Maruleng has warned workers that the protest action is not legal.
MyCiti employees who are contracted through labour brokers say conditions under labour brokers are bad for workers. They now want to be employed directly by the City of Cape Town. The workers have been on strike for four weeks now over this demand. Two MyCiti buses were set alight this week, one in Milnerton and another in Khayelitsha. Last month, another bus was stoned and petrol bombed, also in Khayelitsha. Security has since been beefed up on the buses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to one of the striking workers Patrick Mabindisa.
The Eastern Cape Health Department says it will be taking disciplinary action against the emergency services workers who embarked on an illegal strike since Monday. The workers were protesting over unpaid overtime due to some of them from as far back as 2003. An agreement was reached yesterday, to pay some of the money and to refer other cases to for mediation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the department’s Lwandile Sicwetsha, who says not taking action against the workers will set a bad precedence.
Former North West Premier and former ANC Provincial Chairperson, Supra Mahumapelo has, for the first time, responded publicly to allegations of a plot to oust President Cyril Ramaphosa. A Sunday newspaper reported in September that former President, Jacob Zuma, held a clandestine meeting with top ANC officials in this regard. Patrick Dintwa reports.
Workers at the Tswaing Local Municipality in the North West who are affiliated to trade union SAMWU have emabrked on a protest action. They are raising concern about the municipality's failure to pay statutory deductions of their employees. According to the union over 8 000 of their members have been affected. Some workers say they have been warned that their policies will lapse due to non-payment of premiums. Tswaing is one of eight municipalities that have been placed under administration by the provincial government. Zebilon Maine reports.
Arguments in mitigation and aggravation of sentence in the case against businessman and property mogul Jason Rohde will be heard on the 21st of November. Rohde has been found guilty of killing his wife Susan in July 2016 at the Spier Wine Estate. Judge Gayaat Salie-Hlophe of the High Court in Cape Town says the evidence proved beyond reasonable doubt that Rohde murdered his wife and then staged her death as a suicide. Our reporter Berenice Moss was in court.
Former Cape Town Mayor Patricia De Lille says she is taking legal action against four DA leaders as a matter of principle. She laid charges of fraud and crimen injuria against Mike Waters MP, Bronwynne Engelbrecht MP, Shehana Kajee and Henk Hugo at the Cape Town police station earlier today. This relates to a post that they circulated on social media alleging that she had a hand in tender irregularities in the municipal bus service MiCiti. The document was purported to be from the Auditor-General’s office but the AG denied this. Our reporter Abongile Kobokana was at the Cape Town police station.
US president Donald Trump's Republican party has lost control of the House of Representatives during the mid-term elections. This was a first win for the Democracts in eight years and will make it difficult for Trump to push his programme through Congress. The much anticipated polls, seen as an indicator of what is to come in the next elections, took place yesterday. Leader of the Democrats in the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, has thanked supporters saying tomorrow will be a new day in America. Meanwhile the party's Jacky Rosen who has secured the Senate seat in Nevada says women are taking their country back.
The Capricorn District Municipality executive mayor, John Mpe, says his predecessor, Gilbert Kganyago, was allegedly directly involved in investing public funds in the troubled VBS Mutual Bank. Mpe says that records indicate that Kganyago chaired the mayoral committee meetings which took a decision to invest 60 million rand in VBS between 2015 and 2016. The money was later withdrawn. Jabulani Baloi reports.
More details are yet to come to light on the meeting between House Chairperson Thoko Didiza who has been meeting with political party chief whips to discuss how to deal with unruly behavior by some to the MP. Chaos broke out in Parliament yesterday during President Cyril Ramaphosa's last oral reply session in the house this year. Steenhuisen referred to EFF MPs as VBS looters. Our Parliamentary Corresspondent Mercedes Besent is on the story.
A group of parents at the Rustenburg Girls' Junior School in Cape Town who identify themselves as Parents for Change say they want their children to be taught in a school environment that prepares them to live and work in a diverse community. They believe that the school refuses to transform after it made headlines following the resignation of a grade five teacher who was the first Black class teacher to be appointed in the school's history. Nozipho Mthembu left her job in September this year after just nine months of employment following accusations by learners, parents and the school that her performance did not meet the required standard. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the group’s spokesperson Nuraan Davids.
The SABC's inquiry into sexual harassment has found that the leadership at its KwaZulu Natal offices failed to correctly handle allegations of inappropriate workplace behaviour and has urged the public broadcaster to deal with the matter. The commission, which was established in June this year, says it received the majority of its complaints from the SABC's radio division. The inquiry's Barba Watson and Mfana Shozi addressed the media in Johannesburg.
51-year old Sibusiso Tshabalala who is facing a charge of murder for shooting his 16-year old son dead outside his school in Ennerdale in June, will be back in court on December 11. He appeared briefly in the Lenasia Magistrates Court this morning. It is understood that he wants to plead guitly to a lesser charge of culpable homicide and the postponement will give both the defence and state time to finalise the plea agreement. Tshabalala says he accidentally shot his son Luyanda Themba Tshabalala after mistaking him for a hijacker. He had been sleeping in his car waiting for his son to finish his lessons that night. Our reporter Wisani Makhubele was in court.
It is reported that HHP's family intends to challenge the order handed down by the Johannesburg High Court on Friday. Publicist Lerato Sengadi emerged victorious after being lawfully named the customary wife of deceased rapper Jabulani 'HHP' Tsambo. Her application to halt the muso's funeral was however, denied by Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng on the grounds of Ubuntu, and because HHP was a public figure. In his judgement, jugde Mokgoatlheng said that the law recognises three requirements for a customary marriage: age(18) & consent, lobola must be fixed and there must be a celebration. Director of Icamagu Heritage Institute, Dr Nokuzola Mndende explains customary marriage in his views
The case against two suspects, arrested in connection with the gruesome murder of a Vlakfontein family near Lenasia in the south of Johannesburg, has been postponed to Monday next week in the Lenasia Magistrate's court. They are facing seven charges of murder, while three charges of rape have been added for one of them. Both accused are allegedly foreign nationals. Seven people were killed at Vlakfontein, including women and children early last week. The victims were laid to rest in a mass funeral yesterday in Pietermaritzburg, Kwazulu Natal. Magistrate Maggie van der Merwe says evidence needs to be heard on why one of the accused deserves bail.
Women at the Gender Summit being held in Centurion Pretoria, say the corporate sector is also responsible for the oppression of women. They have been speaking about ways to end gender based violence in a first such gathering in the country. Yesterday women told their individual stories about sexual abuse and rape. Fatima Shabodiem who is one of the commission coordinators at the summit, says it is interesting to note that the National Development Plan does not say much about the economic development of women. She says capitalism requires black women who are disempowered.
President has filed an answering affidavit after former SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane’s notice that he is challenging amongst other things, his dismissal in the Constitutional Court. Moyane is also questioning the validity of the Nugent Commission set up to probe governance issues at SARS. Ramaphosa sacked Moyane based on a draft report by Judge Robert Nugent. The Presidency had defended Ramaphosa's saying the situation had become untenable. Presidential spokesperson Khusela Diko says Ramaphosa did not wait for Nugent's final report before because he did not expect to be it to be that different from the interim one. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Moyane's lawyer, Eric Mabuza.
The court is expected to make a decision this afternoon on the validity of a marriage between the late hip hop star, Jabulani “HHP” Tsambo also known as Jabba. His partner Lerato Sengadi insists that they were married and that he had told her that he wants to buried in Johannesburg and not in the North wet where his family is based and where he grew up. Sengadi says her court battle with the family is not about money but about fulfilling Jabba’s wishes. Here is a clip of what Jabba himself said when asked by Anele Mdoda on SABC’s Real Talk earlier this year, whether the pair are married. Sengadi was also presen
Members of the ruling ANC, trade union federation COSATU, the SACP and the NGO OUTA, have once again called for the controversial e-tolls to be scrapped. They have marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria this afternoon. The protest was sparked by Finance Minister Tito Mboweni’s comments who, during his maiden mid-term budget speech last week, insisted that the people of Gauteng have to pay for e-tolls. Our reporter Phumzile Mlangeni is at the march.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured the community of Hanover Park in the Western Cape that the newly launched the anti-gang unit will protect residents. The 95-member strong team has been in operation for a month now. Members of the unit will be deployed to other crime-ridden areas such as Nyanga, Bonteheuwel and Bishop Lavis. Ramaphosa says both the national and provincial governments as well as the police have heard the pleas of communities of gang-affected areas.
Leaked reports are detailing why train security has collapsed in South Africa. A commuter activist group #UniteBehind is in possesion of a report of an investigation by Werksmans Attorneys on mismanagement at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) for the 2014/15 financial year, which has raised more red flags about security at PRASA. The reports reveal that hundreds of millions of rands have been spent by PRASA on dodgy security contracts. These reports, come on the backdrop of the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) report that security-related incidents on South Africa's rail network are at a seven-year high. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to #UniteBehind member and Secretariat Zelda Holtznam.
Associate Professor and Head the Department of Law at Monash South Africa Tshepo Mongalo, says there may be merit in the argument that the SABC took the easy way out by first announcing retrenchments and not explore other ways of cutting costs or bringing in revenue. The public broadcaster has announced that it is technically insolvent and will be shedding over 2000 permanent and freelance jobs. The company held a media briefing at its head office in Auckland Park yesterday.
Nicholas Ninow, the man dubbed the Dros rapist is expected back in court at the end of November after his appearance in the Pretoria Magistrates Court this morning. He was referred to Weskoppies Hospital for mental evaluation after it emerged that he has a history of bipolar. He is accused of raping a seven year old girl inside the Dros restaurant's male toilets in Silverton two months ago. He had allegedly been watching the child while she was in the play area before following her to the toilet. The mother found him with bloodied clothes when she went looking for her daughter after failing to locate her in the play area. Our reporter Neo Makwiting was in court.
Gender Base Violence activists have called the government in particular the presidency, to consider reviewing some laws in order to protect victims of gender based violence. In a first in South Africa, activists were given a platform to relate to delegates at the Gender Summit, their harrowing stories of abuse ranging from incidents of gang rape, assault by partners and ill treatment by police as well as hospitals and clinics. They have told government to do more to the help victims of abuse.
Police are yet to make an arrest after one person was shot and wounded during clashes between factions at the International Pentecostal Holiness Church (also known as Modise Church) in Zuurbekom on Gauteng’s West rand this morning. Members say two brothers are fighting over who should lead the church, which is one of the largest in Africa with 3.5 million members. Police have managed to confiscate several firearms while cars were trashed and now the road is littered with debris. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Sashin Naidoo who is on the scene.
Cape Town Mayor, Patricia de Lille, has announced her resignation as of 7PM today. She is also resigning as a DA member. There was uncertainty earlier today whether De Lille will vacate office as per agreement with the party. Two months ago, she announced her resignation during a media conference with DA leader, Mmusi Maimane. De Lille says says she's turned down various offers, including being a minister. Signing her resignation letter outside the Western Cape High Court, she's also said she will make an announcement regarding her next career move in two weeks time. Meanwhile, former DA leader Toni Leon has commented on the recent battle between De Lille and the the party.
SABC CEO, Madoda Mxakwe, says the public broadcaster is technically insolvent and unable to fulfill its financial obligations. He was speaking on the financial state of the SABC at its headquarters in Auckland Park this afternoon. On Monday, the SABC notified staff that it intended to embark on the retrenchment of 981 permanent staff and not renew the contracts of 1200 freelancers. Mxakwe says freelancers cost the company over R500-million, while managers' and junior manager's wage bill costs the broadcaster over a billion rand.
Hip Hop music lovers and fans are paying their respect to Hip Hop artist Jabulani Tsambo affectionately known as HHP. A memorial service in his honour is currently underway at Newtown Music Factory in Johannesburg. Another memorial to celebrate his life will be held at the Mmabatho Convention centre in Mahikeng in North West on Thursday, with his funeral service scheduled for this Saturday, also in the North West. Tsambo also known as Jabba, was found dead at his home in Randpark Ridge in Johannesburg last Wednesday. Here is how some of the mourners remember him.
Cape Town police are on a manhunt for those responsible for the murder of prominent criminal lawyer, Peter Mihalik, who was shot outside the Reddam High School in Green Point this morning. Mihalik had just dropped off his child at the school when he was attacked. Police are at the scene looking for clues that may help find his killers. Our reporter Corbin August is on the story.
The Africa Attractiveness report has revealed that despite weak economic growth foreign direct investment on the continent increased by 6 percent in 2017. The report also shows that South Africa still attracts more investors, sharing the top with Morocco. It is the first time that South Africa was matched by another country in terms of being the most preferred investment destination. Ethiopia also showed an improvement jumping seven places to become the fifth-largest FDI recipient, its highest ranking. Elvis Presslin spoek to Africa Knowledge team leader at Ernst and Young, Graham Thomson.
The Father’s Rights Movement with the assistance of the Justice and Reconciliation Centre say it will file papers in the Constitutional Court next year in order to get the law changed so that fathers can have equal access to their children during and after divorces are finalised. The group marched to the SABC's Auckland park offices in Johannesburg to raise awareness about challenges some fathers face on this matter. They say the state is depriving them their parental rights. They want divorced or separated fathers to know their rights as contained in the Constitution as well as the Children's Act. They say their rights go beyond visiting their children only on weekends and paying child support. One of these fathers, Orrock Robertson, says his ex-wife has kept him away from his son for almost a year.
The legal team of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso is taking to the Supreme Court of Appeal to petition the court directly after Judge Mandela Makaula of the High Court in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, denied them leave to appeal his ruling that there are no good grounds for him to recuse himself. The defence has accused Makaula of being biased towards the first witness Cheryl Zondi who was allegedly raped by Omotoso. The trial will now continue on the 10th of December 2018. Our reporter Anda Nqonji was in court.
Police are looking for a man whom they believe can help them in their probe into the death of seven people discovered at a house in Vlakfontein, South of Johannesburg yesterday. Authorities say Sibusiso Enerst Khoza was staying at the house and that neighbours have spotted him recently. Police responded to a complaint after a community member complained of a stench that came from a nearby house. Upon arrival police found the bodies buried under a pile of sand in the bedroom. Another man has been taken in for questioning. Elvis Presslin spoke to police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa will continue to welcome potential investors from across the world in order to have a growing and vibrant economic development. He was speaking at the official opening of the inaugural South Africa Investment Conference in Sandton, north of Johannesburg. Ramaphosa says government has worked hard to reduce policy uncertainty, regulatory barriers and red tape in order to improve the ease of doing business.
The United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, Leilani Farha, has presented a report that found that informal settlements represent a "systemic human rights violation" that arises as a result of state action. Her report urges states to adopt a human rights-based approach to informal settlements by urgently upgrading informal settlements and avoiding relocations or evictions. Nearly a quarter of the world's urban population lives in informal settlements where residents often live without water and sanitation and are in constant fear of eviction. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Researcher at the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa, Michael Clark
The Tshwane University of Technology Centre for Tissue Engineering, says religious and cultural beliefs are barriers to skin and organ donations. The Centre has called on the public to donate skin which is harvested upon an individual's death so as to help burn victims recover quickly. It says the demand is particularly high during winter when a number of fires start at informal settlements.
Outgoing Mayor Patricia De Lille is alleging that councillor JP Smith and her deputy Ian Neilsen , are behind attempts to smear her name. She says national leadership has not done anything despite her raising the matter a number of times. De Lille is facing possible criminal charges after the DA-led city council adopted a report yesterday implicating De Lille in alleged corruption dealings with a transport tender. Five councillors resigned in solidarity with her yesterday saying the DA is racist. De Lille says she is seeking legal action on how to proceed.
Learners, parents, community members and stakeholders from the Education Department in the Eastern Cape are currently meeting after the Ndaliso Secondary School in Lusikisiki was torched allegedly by angry learners late yesterday. This comes after they boycotted matric examinations demanding that progressed learners be allowed to write all their examinations this year when the policy dictates otherwise. The meeting is aimed at resolving the issue and mapping a way forward and to prevent further disruptions of exam sessions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Department's Malibongwe Mtima.
Economists expect Finance Minister Tito Mboweni to make some announcements on expenditure rather than tax increases when he delivers the mid-term budget this afternoon. Economists say there is no more room for VAT increases. Also revenue collection needs to be more efficient by increasing tax compliance measures and fixing tax administration and governance challenges at SARS. Amina Accram reports
The normalization of exclusion is one of the main impediments to the progress of women leadership and gender equality around the world. That's the sentiment expressed by the head of UNWOMEN who also welcomed the recent gender parity achieved in the cabinets of Ethiopia, Rwanda and the Seychelles. Speaking exclusively with SABCNEWS on women's leadership in Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka warned that while progress was being made on the continent, women's leadership in Africa is yet to be seen as the success story that it should be. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
The #TotalShutdown movement has called on leaders not to politicise the Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso’s rape trial and the fight against women abuse. This after the ANC Women’s League held a media briefing in Port Elizabeth on Monday to speak out against the abuse of women. The comment also comes as the Eastern Cape Transport Safety and Liaison MEC, Weziwe Tikana, in the company of her Health and Social Development counterparts, MECs, Helen Sauls-August and Dr. Phumeza Dyantyi, lead a march of largely women, against gender based violence. Member of the movement’s steering committee Loyiso Saliso says the party and other government officials have not been protesting since the case started more than a year and a half ago and that ANCWL president and minister of Women, Children and people with disabilities, Bathabile Dlamini, was being opportunistic and is selective in her support for women causes. She spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
A police officer has been granted bail by the Ventersdorp magistrates court in the North West Province in connection with the rape of a 14-year old girl. The rape allegedly took place at gun point following the kidnapping of the girl and her friend. Our reporter Zebilion Maine was in court.
Judge Mandela Makaula who is presiding over the Timothy Omotoso, has refused to recuse himself. This follows an application by the defence this afternoon. Omotoso’s lawyer advocate Peter Daubermann says judge Makaula is biased against his clients. He told the court earlier this morning that he does not believe that his client will receive a fair trial because he and his clients are being intimidated, citing an incident in which he was chased by a group of protestors who threw water on him when he left court last week. He says this is a direct attack on the judiciary.
Security forces in Cameroon are on high alert, following a chaotic weekend that was characterised by botched protests, house arrests of opposition politicians, harassment of journalists and restriction of internet access. The results of the October 7 presidential election are expected to be announced today, according to the information minister Issa Tchiroma. While the opposition has protested the outcome of the election, arguing that there was massive and systematic fraud, the Constitutional Council dismissed all 18 petitions calling for the partial and total cancellation of the vote. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a Journalist in Cameroon, Arison Tamfu.
Commuters in East Londo will have to find alternative transport this afternoon after violence broke out between taxi operators some of whom have been injured. There are reports of shooting at some ranks and some shops in Oxford street have closed due to the violence. It is alleged that the fight is between Uncedo and Border Alliance taxi associations who are fighting over routes. Our reporter Xolani Sitshinga is there.
The Northern Cape Health Department says TB tracer teams have been disbanded because of financial constraints. It hsa emerged that about 4000 tuberculosis patients in the Northern Cape are unaccounted for and cannot be traced by the provincial health department. There are reportedly more than 80 000 missing TB patients in South Africa, of which 4189 are missing in that province. The numbers were reflected in the department's first quarterly report for 2018/19. After HIV and Aids, TB is the second biggest killer in the province and the two infectious diseases have close ties. Neo Bodumela reports
Acting SARS commissioner Mark Kingon has offered an apology to South African citizens, and to President Cyril Ramaphosa for the failures that have happened at the revenue services. Kingon is appearing before the SARS Commission of Inquiry under way in Pretoria. The commission is expected to submit its final report in December. Kingon says he is confident that the organisation can be turned around in order to make it great again.
A new magistrate will hear the pre-trial proceedings of student activist Mcebo Dlamini’s case when it resumes in April next year. Efforts to avoid a trial were unsuccessful after Dlamini was charged with violating a court order, theft, public violence and assaulting a police officer in 2016 in relation to the Fees Must Fall protests at Wits University in Johannesburg. Our reporter Lopang Alamu was in court.
Communications Minister Nomvula Mokonyane says the switching from the analogue system to the digital broadcasting will not be an easy process. She was briefing the media earlier today on the progress made by the Broadcasting Digital Migration Advisory Council on the country's digital terrestrial television (DTT) plan. She says they aim to have switched by 2020 but that if effective systems and interventions are made this can be achieved sooner.
Police says not clear if there is a link between a threat made against ANC councillor Sbu Maphumulo who was gunned down in Umlazi, Durban last night and his murder. The ward 88 councillor and a number of colleagues were heading home after a meeting. The ANC in KwaZulu Natal says a group of residents had earlier marched to Maphumulo's home and threatened to set it alight. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Colonel Thembeka Mbhele for an update.
Network provider Vodacom has raised operational and regulatory as some of the reasons for high data costs. Company CEO Shameel Joosub is appearing before the Competition Commission Data Services Market Inquiry underway in Pretoria. The four major providers, known as 'Telco's' in the industry, are appearing today. The aim of the inquiry is to better understand the general state of competition in the data services sector. Our reporter Naledi Ngcobo is attending hearings.
A social worker in Plaatfontein in the Northern Cape says the lack of parental supervision and an increased number of shebeens in the area are among reasons that children start drinking alcohol at a young age. Kgomotso Bessie,who works in that community, says children as young as 12-year old are already consuming alcohol. She says they are working towards curbing the problem and empowering parents. She spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The Department of Justice and Correctional Services says it is doing all it can to minimise the impact of cuts to the Legal Aid SA budget which provides free legal representation to the poor. The allocation will be reduced by a whopping R503m over the next three years. Legal Aid spokesperson Mfanafuthi Shabangu says they may have to shed jobs and that 5100 people may not be able to get a service from the organisation.
Limpopo government says it cannot act on forensic report, will commission its own investigation into the matter. It held a media briefing this morning. Several municipal officials are among 50 people that allegedly received monies from the bank. Our reporter Jabulani Baloyi attended the briefing.
Police and the community members of Witsand in Atlantis in the Western Cape have engaged in clashes as the residents protest demanding that seven members of the Cape Town Metro Council resign. They are being accused of being corruption and slowing down developmental projects. One person has been being rushed to hospital after sustaining injuries when police fired rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the protestors who were blocking roads with burning tyres. Our reporter Mlamli Maneli is on the scene.
South Africa is experiencing a nationwide shortage of certain antiretrovirals. According to The Stop Stockouts Project (SSP), the crisis has been developing over the past two months, South Africa has the biggest HIV programme in the world at 4.2 million people. The country hopes to initiate an additional 2 million people on treatment in the next 24 months. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy Director General responsible for procurement of medicine in the public health sector Dr Anban Pillay.
The End Times Disciples Ministries has confirmed that its pastor has fed his congregants dog meat with the aim to heal them from diseases such as cancer and HIV. The church says God commanded that the worshippers be fed dog stew. There has been an outcry about the video posted on the pastor's Facebook website with him showing the slaughtered dog. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has spoken out against this. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the church's Thembi Phanuel.
The first witness in the trial of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso, says her family took her to a therapist after realising that she was not behaving like herself. 22-year old Cheryl Zondi who has been on the stand for four days now, has told the high court in Port Elizabeth that Omotoso raped her several times during trips to Israel, Nigeria and Durban while the church band was touring. Omotoso, who leads the Jesus's Dominion International Church and his two co-accused, is facing 97 charges of a sexual nature. Zondi says Omotoso started raping her when she was 14-years old.
18 protestors have been arrested on charges of public violence in Mlungisi township in Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. One person was earlier killed and IPID is investigating the incident. State vehicles have been stoned and it's alleged that another municipal building has been set alight in the township. Yesterday, residents torched the main municipal building in Stutterheim as well as a clinic. They're protesting over alleged nepotism by the municipality and other issues. Our reporter Lubabalo Dada is the story.
EFF leader Julius Malema says the party has scrutinised his deputy Floyd Shivambu's bank statement and no money from VBS mutal bank or Sgameka was located. Malema briefed the media at the party's headquarters in Braamfontein in Johannesburg. The party has dismissed claims that it received money from VBS, while at the same time says it has no reason to doubt Shivambu. He has distanced himself from his brother who has been named as one of the people who received money from the mutual bank in a Reserve Bank forensic report. The report says Brian Shivambu received 16-million-rand, ten-million of which a newspaper claims was paid into Floyd's bank account. Malema says if Floyd Shivambu is found to have been implicated in the looting of VBS bank he will be dealt with accordingly.
South Africa has announced R10 million in humanitarian assistance to refugees in Tindouf, in South Western Algeria. SA also urged the international community not to lose sight of the immense needs of more than 170-thousand refugees in the camps. International Red Crescent officials in the camps say donor fatigue and competing humanitarian crises has seen reduced international aid to the camps and as a result, the refugees face serious risks to their health and nutritional needs. Meanwhile, families of victims of mass killings, torture and enforced disappearances in the occupied Western Sahara have called on international human rights organizations to help them secure justice against Moroccan troops, whom they accuse of human rights abuses. Sarah Kimani reports.
The search continues this afternoon for the two bodies seen being swept away by flood water at the Apies River in Pretoria at the weekend. The search and rescue team from the Tshwane Emergency Service says it will continue to search for at least a week before deciding together with the police on how to proceed. Heavy rains in the city and the surrounding areas of Hammanskraal, Temba, Pretoria West and Pretoria North, have damaged properties and trees were uprooted since the thunderstorm and and hail began on Saturday. Here is what the eyewitness who alerted authorities had to say:
Cheryl Zondi who is the first witness in the case against controversial Nigerian pastor, Timothy Omotoso, says she never reported him to anyone because he had told her that if she did, God would either punish her by death or that she would go mad. Zondi is testisying in the high court in Port Elizabeth today where Omotoso and his two co-accused are facing charges of sexual assault, racketeering, trafficking for sexual assault and rape. Zondi hsa told the court that the vibrancy and youthfulness of the Jesus Dominion International church is what attracted her to join it but things later changed. Our reporter Veronica Fourie isfollowing the story.
Security company 24/7 says there has been a noticeable increase in the number of attacks on their officers where criminals target them for their firearms. Two guards working for 24/7 were shot and killed at the Nancefield hostel in Soweto last week and a video of the gruesome attack has since gone viral but the company has requested the public to stop circulating it. Police are yet to arrest the suspects whose faces are clearly visible in the footage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to 24/7 security operations officer, Geoff Shapiro.
Vha-Venda King Toni Mphephu-Ramabulana says he is willing to pay back the R17 million he received from VBS Mutual Bank as a gift. He has released a statement this afternoon saying he did not know that it was proceeds from fraudulent activities. This comes after a report titled "The Great Bank Heist" which revealed how more than 50 people looted R2billion's worth of depositors' money. The King's name is also mentioned in the scathing report which recommends that those implicated be criminally prosecuted. They include senior bank managers, politicians and business people. Meanwhile..the employees of VBS Mutual Bank say they knew about the corruption taking place at the bank and reported the activities to authorities but that nothing was done. A worker who has been with the company for three years, has told SABC News he became aware after a year in service that money was being embezzled. This comes after 100 workers received retrenchment letters last week. The notices indicate that their employment will end on November the 12th. The Reserve Bank placed VBS under curatorship in March after the mutual bank started experiencing financial difficulties following evidence of widespread looting.
As the furore surrounding the unsafe buildings in the City of Johannesburg continues, residents of Newclare and Westbury west of the city, have spoken out about the dilapidated state of their flats. They say many residents have been injured due to the unstable structure and falling bricks. The flats have not been maintained for years and some of them look like they could collapse any time. Chantal Thompson reports.
A Johannesburg workshop on Obesity Prevention has heard how non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure are killing more South Africans than HIV. These diseases are as a result of a poor diet and lack of exercises and have been linked to obesity. This comes as the world observes Obesity Day today. The workshop has also heard that one in five children are overweight and obese. Thabile Mbhele reports.
The Cancer Association of South Africa ,CANSA, has expressed frustration over the continued shortage of life-saving drugs at public hospitals. The association says it keeps receiving complaints from patients who have not been receiving their chronic medicines, despite repeatedly raising the matter with hospital managers and health officials. This week, a Gauteng breast cancer patient described to SABC News how she collapsed at home, two days after the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Johannesburg, failed to provide her with chemotherapy medication. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has confirmed the shortage of certain life-saving drugs countrywide. Wisani Makhubele reports
As the date for the start of the final matric exams nears, principals of various high schools in Eldorado Park in Johannesburg, have organised a motivational session for learners in the area to encourage the to do their best. Pastor Ashley Sauls says they have to support their children because they are future hope for their communities.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura says government is willing to work with communities in order to fight drugs and other crimes. He was speaking outside the provincial legislature this afternoon after receiving memoranda from members of the coloured communities from areas including Ennerdale, Daveyton and Riverlea as part of Blood Friday. This in rememberence of those who have died due to crimes that involved drugs and gangsterism. Our reporter Angela Bolowana is following the story.
Tributes honouring the late SAFM presenter Rowena Baird are pouring in at the SABC. Rowena passed away peacefully at her home last week surrounded by her loved ones. She was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2014 and courageously spent the rest of her life fighting it. A memorial service was held at the SABC studios today. She is greatly remembered by her colleagues and friends at the SABC
A 51-year-old cancer patient has described to SABC News how her life was compromised resulting in her collapsing at her home after the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Johannesburg failed to provide her with Chemotherapy medication. The woman who is from Kagiso, west of Johannesburg has breast cancer. She says she and a number of other cancer patients were made to wait the entire day at the hospital last Thursday only to be sent home with pain killers because the hospital had run out of chemotherapy drugs. This comes as South Africa mark Breast Cancer Awareness month. Wisani Makhubele spoke to the patient who wishes to remain anonymous.
The police ministry says it will not be releasing too much information about the role of two police officers stationed at the Sophiatown police station west of Johannesburg, who have been arrested in connection with the murder of 21 year old Bradley Sauls who was gunned down in Westbury in July. The officers are facing charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice. This brings to seven the number of people arrested for Saul's death. The latest breakthrough follows the deployment of a multi-disciplinary task team in Westbury as part of efforts to stabilise the area. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the police's Brigadier Vish Naidoo.
The EFF remains mum about the involvement of its deputy president's brother in the looting of VBS mutual bank. The Reserve Bank has released a report written by advocate Terry Motau in which he details how Floyd Shivambu's sibling Brianand received R16 million from the bank hose doors are now closed. It is unclear why he received the money. The total amount looted amounts to R1.8 billion. Details in a forensic accountant report shows the money was gratuitously received from VBS by about 53 people between March 2015 and June 2018. The Provincial Treasurer of the ANC in Limpopo Danny Msiza, is alleged to be central in this heist. Motau has provided more details about the scheme.
The Home Affairs Portfolio Committe is to meet during Parliament's recess time in December, to accommodate a key witness, Ashu Chawla, in the inquiry who's currently in India. This has emerged during the committee's hearing into the naturalisation of the Gupta family, which resumed today. Chawla is the former COO of Sahara Computers, a Gupta-owned company which has now closed. The committee has learnt that Chawla is currently in New Delhi, but is expected to come to South Africa by the end of November. Chairperson Hlomani Chauke says Chawla has sent a a list of demands, including a business class flight ticket. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Zalene Merrington.
The Constitutional Court says there should not be a blanket approach when dealing with the issue of the Immigration Directive 21 of 2015. This relates to a case of four asylum seekers who sought to apply for temporary residence after their applications were rejected by the Department of Home Affairs. The applicants wanted the Immigration Directive of 2015 to be declared invalid and unlawful. The matter was taken to the apex court after the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the Department of Home Affairs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Strategic Litigation at Lawyers for Human Rights, Waynne Mncube.
Financial services provider Net1 Mobile Solutions says t is not violating a Constitutional Court ruling that cancelled its subsidiary, CPS's social grant payment contract with SASSA. Net1 has been visiting several villages across the country with mobile ATMs and disbursing social grants to SASSA beneficiaries. The Concourt earlier ruled that SASSA's contract with CPS was invalid and that it should be cancelled by the end of September. The South African Post Office has taken over social grant payments. However, CPS, through its banking services wings Grindrod Bank and Net1 Mobile has been paying social grants to beneficiaries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Net1 CEO Herman Kotze.
The United National Transport Union (UNTU) says it is shocked that the Railway Safety Regulator's decision to revoke the safety permit of the Passenger Rail Agency PRASA is being challenged in court. The matter was brought by PRASA and will be heared in the high court in Pretoria on Thursday. The court had to provide temporary relief to PRASA after the regulator refused to issue a safety permit last week following an accident in Kempton Park on Friday. The regulator's decision would have affected 2 million train commuters. This is the second time since August this year, that the regulator has threatened not to issue PRASA with a permit due to serious safety concerns. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General-Secretary of the United National Transport Union Steve Harris.
Employees of the South African Social Security Agency SASSA that are affiliated to trade union NEHAWU will be taking to the streets on Wednesday. They say problems with the biometric system are presenting challenges for them especially in rural areas. The union's General-Secretary, Zola Saphetha addressed the media in Braamfontein, Johannesburg this morning.
Circumstances around the plane crash that killed two people in Midrand Johannesburg are still unclear. Police have opened an inquest docketafter a plane crashed into the backyard of a residence killing the pilot and a gardner who was working at the time. Aviation authorities are on the scene. Our reporter Jamaine Krige is there.
Political analyst Dr. Sithembele Mbete says she believes that president Cyril Ramaphosa should fire Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene. The minister has reporteedly requested the president to relieve him of his duties following public pressure over his testimony at the commission of inquiry into state capture at which he admitted to several meetings with the Gupta family. Some political parties have rejected his apology for previously failing to disclose that he had meetings with them at their Saxonwold home and their business premises in Midrand Johannesburg between 2009 and 2014, when he served as deputy minister and minister of finance respectively. Nene testified last week that he visited the Guptas six times at their home. He has previously denied having what he called engagements with them and told eNCA in May 2016 that he only "bumped" into them at government functions. In his apology, Nene says he owes South Africans conduct that is "beyond reproach" because of the faith the public places in him. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Mbete who is a Politics Lecturer at the University of Pretoria.
Former Gauteng Hawks Head, Shadrack Sibiya has once again denied that he had any knowledge about the rendition of Zimbabwean nationals in 2010. Sibiya was speaking after charges against him and former Head of the Hawks, Anwar Dramat,were withdrwan by the state. Sibiya's advocate, George Baloyi, says the charges were provisionally withdrawn based on the representations they have made to the state. The charges against the third accused captain Lesley Maluleka, were however not withdrawn. He is now facing 16 charges of kidnapping, contravention of the immigration act and defeating the ends of justice. The case has been postponed to next month to allow Maluleka to also make representations why he should not be prosecuted.
The South African Council for Educators (SACE) has called on teachers to continue to develop their skills even after receiving their qualification. This comes as educators celebrate World Teachers' Day today under the theme "The right to education means the right to a qualified teacher". A report by the Centre for Development and Enterprises revealed last year that the Department of Basic Education has more than five thousand underqualified and unqualified teachers. These included those educators who only have a matric and the ones who received on-the-job training for less than three years. Many such educators entered the profession during the apartheid era. A study released earlier this year shows that only five of 22 teachers could pass basic English and Maths tests well.
The community of Ennerdale, south of Johannesburg says it will continue to protest until the government listens. There is a strong police presence in the area where residents are protesting against crime, drug dealings and gangsterism which are plaquing the community. Police are, once again, been accused of aiding criminals. Residents say they have been reporting these concerns to authorities but that nothing is being done. They have called on government to take their plight seriously. This is part of a series of protests by the so-called coloured communities in Gauteng and the Western Cape who say they are being marginalised. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to community leader Ingrid Jefferies.
Former SAfm presenter on Morning Talk, Rowena Baird, has passed away. Her sister, Michelle Baird, has confirmed that she died this morning after a long battle with colon cancer. Rowena started her broadcasting in the 1980s at Radio Bop in Mahikeng in the former Bophuthatswana, now North West. She spent time at a variety of radio stations over the years. They include Radio 2000, Channel Africa and Metro FM. Her sister Michelle has told Sakina Kamwendo that she will be missed.
Social Security Angency SASSA says its legal team is investigating whether Cash Paymaster Services, CPS, is violating the Constitutional Court ruling barring it from distributing social grants. This after community members in Limpopo and the Free State's rural villages reported that they still receive their money from the company. CPS, through its subsidiary Net1 Mobile, has been visiting villages in the Giyani area with mobile ATMs. However, the company denies contravening the court order, saying it is making banking services available in the areas. Pimani Baloyi investigated and SASSA speaks on the matter.
Robots replacing human workers in the manufacturing was at the top of the agenda at the Manufacturing Indaba in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. The annual Indaba seeks to find solutions to the challenges faced by the sector. Speakers at the Indaba believe the use of robots is the future. The Indaba comes at the time the manufacturing sector continues to shrink. In the first quarter results released by Statistics South Africa, manufacturing production fell by 6.4 percent. Mcebisi Ngqina reports.
The Economic Freedom Fighters has accussed the energy minister Jeff Radebe of attempting to conceal planned looting by the Independent Power Producers. It says that it has submitted questions to the minister, but minister Radebe has failed to answer most of them. The EFF says it will write to the speaker of Parliament and the Presidency to demand immediate full disclosure of all companies that were awarded IPP contracts. The IPPs are expected to add 2,300 megawatts of electricity to the national grid over the next five years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the EFF member of Parliament Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.
The Unemployed People Movement says it is unfortunate that government has decided to bar them from taking part in the Jobs Summit which aims to discuss challenges around lack of jobs and the economy. The organisation says government is refusing to listen to the people who are directly affected by joblessness but chooses instead to engage with business and labour. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the much anticipated gathering in Midrand this afternoon. The dire jobs situation is reflected in the Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa for the second quarter of 2018.
The community of Westbury in Johannesburg has welcome the deployment of the Tactical Response Team by Police Minister, Bheki Cele this morning. Cele says his members have identified at least 20 top priority criminals in that community. He addressed residents at the launch and reinforcement of the TRT which will help fight the scourge of drugs and gang-related violence. Cele also urged the community to assist the police in identifying alleged drug lords while promising to guarantee their safety through the witness protection programme.
Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene says he refused to sign the guarantee for the Nuclear build Programme because it would have had lasting financial implications for the country for decades. Nene is giving testimony at the state capture commission of inquiry in Parktwon Johannesburg. He says it didn't seem wise to approve such a commitment in the absence of a proposed financial model and feasibility study. There Nuclear built Programme was estimated to cost over a trillion rand. He says he was criticised by former President Jacob Zuma and other colleagues for refusing to approve the Nuclear build Programme:
The government of Lesotho is adamant that it wants to protect the country's economy by introducing legislation that forces the producers of wool and mohair to sell to one broker who happens to be Chinese. The producers have been selling their wool and mohair to brokers in South Africa including BKB at the Port Elizabeth Wool Exhange in the Eastern Cape. But now there are government legislated regulations that ban individuals from exporting their own produce. Krivani Pillay spoke to a representative of the Lesotho Wool and Mohair Growers Association Rantelali Shea.
Data contained in hard drives carrying Gupta-linked emails will be used as evidence in the State Capture commission. Chairperson of the Commission, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo made the ruling at the inquiry in Parktown in Johannesburg. An application was brought forward by the commission's legal team asking Justice Zondo to allow it to submit hard drives as evidence. The hard drives, obtained by two whistleblowers, contained emails and communication between the Guptas and representatives of government and state owned enterprises. Here's Justice Zondo handing down judgment
Ekurhuleni Mayor Mzwandile Masina insists that the city will expropriate land without compensation. Masina made the announcement yesterday saying the decision is aimed at serving the public interest and that this is their way of dealing with problems around the issue of housing. Parliament has held public hearings all around the country to hear the public's contributions on the expropriation of land without compensation and is yet to make a final decision on this. This, with the view of possibly amending Section 25 of the Constitution which will allow land to be taken. Krivani Pillay spoke to Masina.
The residents of Westbury in Johannesburg are accusing all police officers at the Sophiatown police station and they want all of them to be moved. They alleged that officers are colluding with criminals. At least two people have been injured after police fired rubber bullets outside the station in an attempt to disperse protesting residents. The protest follows widespread community outrage after a mother was killed and her child critically injured. They were caught in crossfire during an alleged gang shootout. Krivani Pillay spoke to our reporter Jamaine Krige
Human Rights lawyer Brian Currin has told the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture that before a decision was taken to release the data on the hard drives which has since been dubbed "the Gupta emails", Stan who was in possession of the information, needed to be assisted to first leave the country with his family. This was because they were concerned about their safety. Currin is currently testifying before the commission in Parktown, Johannesburg, on two whistleblowers, Stan and John who were in the possession of the hard drives containing emails and communications between the Guptas and representatives of government and state owned enterprises. Currin says he cannot shed light on how the two whistleblowers obtained the data, as it may jeopardise their safety.
The constitutional court has ruled that former Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini is personally liable for 20 percent of the legal costs in the court case linked to the SASSA grants debacle. The court says the Ngoepe Inquiry into the payment of social grants by CPS found that Dlamini had misled them in an attempt to avoid paying legal costs. The apex court also ruled that the NPA must look into whether Dlamini should be prosecuted for perjury in this regard. Justice Johan Froneman handed down the judgment earlier today.
Employment in South Africa has dropped by 69 000 between March and June 2018. Statistics South Africa announced its latest Quarterly Employment Statistics this morning, which show that there has been a decrease in the non-agricultural formal sector largely due to decreases in community services, manufacturing, mining and quarrying as well as transport. Krivani Pillay spoke to Stats SA's Matlapane Mashupye from Stats SA..
Stakeholders have agreed in their submissions to the Human Rights Commission of Inquiry into the state of the Vaal River that the crisis could have been avoided if authourities had taken action. Various non-governmental and environmental rights groups have told the HRC that they have been warning those in power of an impending disaster for more than a decade. Jamaine Krige was there.
The newly- formed ANC Provincial Task Team in the North West says its major task is to forge unity amongst party members in the province. The task team led by Premier Job Mokgoro as the convener, was established last month following the disbandment of the provincial executive committee, led by former premier Supra Mahumapelo. The team is expected to rebuild party structures and also deal with factions and prepare for next year's general elections. Patrick Dintwa reports.
Following violent confrontations, between self confessed gangsters and residents at Boitumelong township in Bloemhof in the North West, the two opposing groups are now calling for a truce. Three lives have been lost and several people are hospitalised in a bloody fight that lasted several days. As fear continues to grip the area, minibus taxi drivers and some community members sleep in groups at a local taxi rank, to defend each other against possible attacks. Lucas Mothibedi reports.
The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department says it is doing the best it can with the resources available to it. It says the situation in Reigerpark is now calm following violent protesting in the area this morning. The residents took to the streets to highlight their anger over issues of lack of services delivery, the high crime unemployment rates. This follows a similar action by residents of Cape Town townships yesterday where police had to use stun grenades and water cannons to disperse protesting residents. Today, a large police contingency has been monitoring protesting residents who had blocked off entrances and exits in Ekhuruleni. Krivani Pillay spoke to Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department spokesperson, Kobedi Mokheseng.
A police officer on duty in Parliament at the time that a staff member entered the premises with a firearm he later killed himself, has been suspended. The South African Police Service says due process was not followed by the officer. The man committed suicide two weeks ago, and in a note cited bullying as the reason for the act. He said that he had been subjected to this for nearly two years and that there was no help available for him even though he had raised this matter to his seniors. The South African Police Service's Major General Leon Rabie told the media in Cape Town earlier today that an inquest has been undertaken.
Hundreds of commuters using Passenger rail agency PRASA'S Metrorail were left stranded and forced to seek alternative transport this morning. Some commuters were seen going to their nearest taxi ranks to try and get transport to their various destinations. This after Metrorail suspended all its train services in KwaZulu-Natal because of an attack on train drivers. Nonjabulo mntungwa reports
South Africa will ease some immigration restrictions, in an effort to boost investment and tourism but the South African Tourism Association says it's a litle too late. The changes to immigration rules are part of a broader economic turnaround programme announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa last week. Home Affairs Minister, Malusi Gigaba, says minors travelling in and out of South Africa will be required to prove both parents' consent. Gigaba was briefing the media in Pretoria on the amendments to the visa regulations. In June 2015 new rules required parents to carry an unabridged birth certificate for accompanying children and consent letters from parents who were not traveling.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has re-assured the international community that his administration is working around the clock to put South Africa's economy back on track. President Ramaphosa addressed the council on foreign relations in New York on the side-lines of the 73rd UN General Assembly. The meeting was attended by academics and people with international business interests amongst others. The president says despite the sluggish economic growth and perceived policy uncertainties plans are in place to turn this situation around. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
SABC Chairman Bongumusa Makhathini says the public broadcaster's turnaround strategy is being guided by what is best for the corporation. Makhathini was speaking in Parliament this morning where the SABC is presenting a plan that will see the organisation become viable again. He says the salary bill has been increasing over the past five years and currently stands at 42 percent of the revenue. He says the company has been engaging with employees and unions on possible retrenchments. SABC CEO Madoda Mxakwe has also told the Portfolio Commitee on Communications that improving on the commercial aspect of public broadcaster is important if the other key operational factors are to be addressed successfully.
A group of protestors are demanding the release of eight fellow protestors who were arrested this morning in Bonteheuwel in Cape Town. They have gathered at the Bishop Lavis police station. Earlier police used stun grenades to disperse those blockading the roads and arrested others. Residents are demanding among others, an end to gang violence, poverty and unemployment. Community members of Hanover Park have dispersed peacefully after this morning's shut down of main roads in the area. Our reporter, Chris Mabuya is following the story.
The community of Mamelodi west in Pretoria says it seems one of the country's iconic historic figure Dr. Fabian Ribeiro is forgotten. Dr Ribeiro played a pivotal role during struggle for liberation. He is accredited for treating patients who were injured during stand-offs with apartheid police but couldn't go to the hospital. It is this role that turned him and his family enemy of the apartheid regime. Dr. Ribeiro was shot dead in 1986 after an earlier attempts on his life failed. He and his wife survived a bomb thrown at their house years before he was killed. Maluti Obuseng reports.
As part of celebrating South Africa's heritage and preserving its history through stone and metal, Social activist and artist Professor Pitika Ntuli has unveiled his latest sculpture in Johannesburg. The 19-ton statue dubbed: QUANTUM PEOPLE took four years to complete and commemorates our heritage as a people and it is one of the 23 life sized statues by the same artist that depicts the 300 years of colonialism. During this month of September - South Africa celebrates Heritage month. Zoleka Qodashe attended the sculpture's unveiling and compiled this report..
Police Minister Bheki Cele says people who commit crimes against women and children should not pardoned. He was addressing the Phoenix community, north of Durban, that is still reeling with shock, following the discovery of the bodies of a mother and her two daughters. The bodies of 44-year-old Janelle Govindsamy and her daughters Rackelle and Denisha were found at their flat in Phoenix on Friday. A 45-year old suspect who is known to the family has been arrested for the murders. Minoshni Pillay reports.
Deputy President David Mabuza has admitted that the indigenous Griqua community, Khoisans and the San communities have not been rightfully recognised. Mabuza was speaking at the unveiling of the statue of the 19th-century Griqua leader, Adam Kok the Third, located at the entrance of the Greater Kokstad municipal offices in Southern KwaZulu-Natal. Adam Kok the Third led the group of Griquas who moved from the present-day Northern Cape and settled in the Kokstad area in 1863, becoming the eastern Griquas. The Kokstad municipality has also renamed its municipal building after him.
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa PRASA, says it will do all it can to protect its workers. The Metrorail has suspeded its services in KwaZulu-Natal until further notice, following a violent unrest at the Umlazi station on Friday. Four cars were set alight and station buildings vandalised, when hundreds of frustrtaed commuters ran riots because trains were running late. Today the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mxolisi Kaunda is meeting with the management of PRASA in Durban and the community of uMlazi to find a solution to the problem. Krivani Pillay spoke to PRASA KwaZulu Natal's Zama Nomnganga.
The Commissiong for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural and Linguistic communities (CRL), has highlighted the lack of accountability amongst religious and traditional leaders as a major concern. The commission is in dialogue with both traditional and religious leaders in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. It is believed that there are more than 200 000 traditional healers across the country and some are of the view that government's proposed regulations are unrealistic and unworkable.Krivani Pillay spoke to Phephsile Maseko who is the National Coordinator of the Traditional Healer's Organization.
Media Monitoring Africa says today’s ruling of the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa which is in favour of the SABC, shows that the system is working. This comes after the DA claimed that the public broadcaster had contravened the broadcasting Act by allowing president Cyril Ramaphosa, to address the country in his capacity as ANC leader. Ramaphosa was giving an update on his party's position on land. The DA insisted that its own leader should have been given same platform during prime time. It was not satisfied with being afforded a change to do an interview on another SABC prime time show. In a statement, the public broadcaster says ruling has upheld the editorial independence of its news division and affirms its independence and impartiality. Krivani Pillay spoke to William Bird from Media Monitoring Africa.
Senior Lecturer at School of Economics and Business Science of the University of the Witwatersrand, Lumkile Mondi, says president Cyril Ramaphosa's recovery plan annouced earlier today, brings hope that the economy will be revived. However, Mondi has warned that the ANC government will have to implement the plan successfully and not do as it has done with other failed ones before. Ramaphosa highlighted the five measures of the stimulus package which focus on youth, women, small business, infrastructure and local government during a media briefing at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. He says the aim of the plan is to stimulate various sectors of the economy with the intention of creating more jobs.
The Chairperson of the Commission Inquiry into State Capture, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, has dismissed the application by former Public Enterprises Minister, Lynne Brown, for leave to cross-examine witnesses. In his testimony before the Commission last month, former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas said he was told by Ajay Gupta that the controversial family had worked closely with a number of people, including Brown and Brian Molefe...Here is an extract from an exchange between Justice Zondo and Brown's Lawyer Simmy Lebala
Zingiswa Losi speaks about her appointment as Cosatu's 1st female president and the way forward
The South African Communist Party (SACP) has described COSATU's 13th national congress as a success and says the election of Zingiswa Losi as the first female president of the trade union federation is a progressive step. COSATU has been meeting over the past four days to elect new leadership and to reflect on its direction. The SACP's First Deputy General-Secretary Solly Mapaila says the congress, which concludes today, not only focused on worker issues but also on ways of strenghtening the federation and the alliance. Mapaila has told Krivani Pillay that they will not be taking part in next year's national elections but that the alliance must ensure that its is strong as it moves towards 2019.
The DA in the Eastern Cape says it has resigned itself to being an opposition party after its application seeking to nullify the council meeting which ousted its member Athol Trollip as mayor, was dismissed by the high court in Port Elizabeth. The party says it will not be appealing the decision unless the national office decides otherwise. The DA took to court claiming that last month’s meeting, which saw the UDM’s Mongameli Bobani become mayor, following a motion of no-confidence against Trollip, was invalid because proper processes were not followed. But the court found otherwise. Our reporter Mcebisi Nqina was in court.
Senior UN officials have warned that there are legitimate questions and concerns about the commitment of the parties to peace agreement signed by the leaders of South Sudan less than a week ago. A previous deal, signed in 2015, fell apart and fighting between government forces and rebels have killed at least 50 000 people and displaced 2 million. The UN's Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping pointed out that within days of the latest signing in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, there have already been reports of fighting in several regions of the country. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Nedbank CEO, Mike Brown, says the bank decision to end its business relations with the Gupta family was motivated by the family’s continued negative media reporting about its activities. Brown is testifying at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture led by Deputy Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo. Brown has told the commission that he did not feel pressured by the ANC to re-open the Gupta’s business bank accounts. Senior officials of other banks have testified that they were threatened by ANC officials after they closed the bank accounts.
Confusion persists as two factions of trade union SAMWU continue to butt heads. Simon Mathe who claims to be the genuine General-Secretary of the union, says they have been meeting with COSATU leadership to ensure unity but this has been disputed by a group led by Chebeitsine Mokoto who says Mathe and his group refused to go to a mediated meeting earlier this week.
Trade union NEHAWU says the new COSATU president Zingiswa Losi, together with her new leadership should focus on economic growth and job creation as a matter of urgency. The union’s General-Secretary, Zola Saphethe, who is attending the trade union federation’s 13th congress in Midrand, north of Johannesburg, says Losi will help to unite COSATU. The union, it is understood, had nominated a second person but later withdrew the name.
The Eastern Cape Transport Department says it is awaiting treasury to confirm whether it will comply with a request for an increased budget for scholar transport in the province. It says it only received part of what they requested last year. Members of taxi association SANTACO have shut down main roads in the areas of Port Elizabeth, East London, King William’s Town and Uitenhage, demanding an increase in their subsidy. But the province’s MEC for Transport Weziwe Tikana, says their budget is constrained and she's not happy that SANTACO failed to inform the department about today’s strike.
The Constitutional Court has ruled that the private use of cannabis is decriminalized. In a unanimous landmark judgment the court found that the private use of cannabis is a constitutional right and that it can be cultivated in a private space for private consumption. Last year the Western Cape High Court found certain sections of the Drugs Act and the Medicines Act which criminalised the use and possession of cannabis to be inconsistent with the Constitution as they prohibited the use of cannabis by an adult in a private home for personal consumption. The Constitutional Court has however not decriminalized the possession of cannabis by adult and children in public. In delivering the judgment, Justice Raymond Zondo gave Parliament 24 months to correct the constitutional defect...
Labour union, BEMAWU is considering taking legal action against the SABC - after the public broadcaster confirmed that it will embark on a process to retrench hundreds of workers. The Communications Workers Union is also rejecting any retrenchments.
The government of Zimbabwe has declared a state of emergency in the capital Harare after 20 people died from cholera. There are fears of this outbreak infiltrating South Africa. The Limpopo Health Department is currently working contingency plans to deal this with the outbreak if it enters the country.
The Congress of South African Students (COSAS) marches to the Union Buildings and the national offices of the Education Department in Pretoria to protest over the lack of proper infrastructure such as ablution facilities and the number of schools available for learners. The organisation has called on all learners to stay away from school but the department says learners should remain in class
Learners and teachers could not control their emotions during the morning devotion session at Ramotshere High School in North-West. 24-year-old Gadimang Mokolobate, a teacher from Ramatlabama village in Mahikeng, was stabbed to death allegedly by a 17-year-old learner yesterday while he was invigilating.
The widow of the late fomer Secretary-General Kofi Annan, Nane Maria Annan has paid tribute to him today during his state funeral service which is being held at the Accra International Conference Centre in Ghana. Annan passed away last month at the age of 80 after a short illness. His body lay in state for two days where the public paid its last respect. His wife's message was read by one of the mourners.
Home Affairs minister, Malusi Gigaba, is expected to appear before Parliament's inquiry into the naturalisation of the Gupta family today. The chairperson of Parliament's Home Affairs inquiry, Hlomani Chauke, says it has been brought to his attention that a witness in this matter, Ashu Chawla, is out of the country. The committee is in its second phase of the inquiry, to clear up some questions it still has. Chawla is the former Chief Operating Officer of Sahara computers. This is what former home affairs official Richard Skhakhane responded to questions from MPs...
Four babies died last week at Christiana Hospital in the North West during a night shift allegedly due to a shortage of oxygen. Fortunately the fifth baby was transported to a hospital in Klerksdorp and survived. A few staff members have allegedly been suspended or had their employment terminated after raising alarm about the tragedy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a whitsleblower.
Ratings agency Moody's says due to the country's stable outlook, there is little chance of credit rating downgrade later this year. The rating agency is hosting its Sub-Saharan Africa summit in Sandton, Johannesburg and it is the only ratings agency still holding South Africa above junk status. Responding to questions from the media, Moody's Senior Credit Officer Lucie Villa cautioned that a commitment to fiscal consolidation at the October budget would be key to maintaining the positive rating.
Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo says the Gupta brothers have no lawful reason to fear prosecution and ultimately refuse to personally appear before the commission. Zondo was giving judgement on applications brought forward by the brothers for leave to cross examine witnesses that had implicated them in allegations state capture, corruption and fraud. Zondo says the brothers should trust in the judicial processes of the country.
According to MTN, the Nigerian Attorney General's office exceeded its powers when it demanded the cellphone network giant pay about $2bn (R30.2bn at current exchange rates) in back taxes. MTN Group has been rocked twice in the past two weeks in its biggest market, with the central bank and the attorney general accusing it of illegally repatriating funds and failing to pay the back taxes, making combined claims of $10bn (about R151bn at current exchange rates). MTN denies the allegations and is seeking a court order to halt the process. One of the people who have been following this story is Adetunji Omotola who is an Africa Analyst.
The Human Rights Commission is holding an inquiry following allegations of the sale of fake and expired goods at shops operated by foreign nationals. The allegations led to incidents of looting and unrest in Soweto and surrounding townships. The commission says after assessing reports and conducting site visits to the affected areas it has decided to hold a two-day inquiry.
Home Affairs Parliament Committee members have questioned the authenticity of the e-mails and how Rudie Heyneke from Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, (OUTA) gained access to them. Heyneke testified that e-mail evidence shows that Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba had a close relationship with the Gupta Family. The Committee is currently holding it second phase of a inquiry into the naturalisation of the Gupta family. Heyneke told the committee that OUTA made its own investigation on leaked e-mails to show that Gigaba was allegedly involved in the naturalisation process.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has established a team to investigate the death of two learners at the Kumalo Primary School in Katlehong on the east rand. The siblings had earlier complained of stomach cramps and nausea. The grade one and grade four learners were rushed to hospital by their teachers but were certified dead on arrival. An educator who went to the pair's home to report their death to their parents, found another sick five year old who is now being treated at the Thelle Mogoerane hospital in Vosloorus. For more on this we are joined on the line by the Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi who visited the family of the deceased this morning.
Water restrictions in Cape Town are set to be lowered from level 6b to level 5 from next month. This means residents are now limited to using 70 litres of water per person per day, instead of 50. Capetonians are also set to pay less for municipal water. Mlamli Maneli reports.
National treasury employee Jan Gilliland has revealed how 11 bank accounts related to Gupta owned companies received million of rands from government. Gilliland has been testifying at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry sitting in Parktown Johannesburg. This week, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo who chairs the commission, will also deliver judgement on whether those who have applied to cross examine witnesses that have incriminated them, will be granted their request. More names of witnesses are set to be announced in the coming weeks. Gilliland had the following to say.
The Thelle Mogoerane hospital in Vosloorus on Gauteng's east rand says three babies who had contracted klebsiella have been discharged while four others are still being treated. Five babies died between July and August this year following an outbreak. The DA claimed yesterday that the department had reported that only two babies died during the said period. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the hospital's Acting CEO Dr. Jatin Martin Canda who says they are doing all they can to stop the spread of the bacteria which often leads to other illnesses.
The Sunday Times says it stands by its story that former president Jacob Zuma and other senior ANC officials are plotting to overthrow president Cyril Ramaphosa. This after the ANC called on the newspaper to retract its report which claimed that a number of the party's leaders attended a secret meeting to discuss ways in which they could overturn the results of last year's Nasrec conference. The report, by Qaanitah Hunter and Jeff Wicks, states that the meeting was led by former president Jacob Zuma and that those attending it included the party's secretary-general Ace Magashule, former North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo and ANC Youth League Secretary in KZN, Thanduxolo Sabelo as well as the ANC Women's League secretary-general Meokgo Matuba. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hunter and started by asking her whether they will retract the story.
The Centre for Child Law is challenging a High Court ruling which dismissed their application which called for the extension of identity protection of minors turning 18 during or after criminal proceedings. The court said this protection would not be indefinite as media houses can name child victims‚ witnesses or crime accused once they turn 18. The Centre for Child Law brought the application following the controversial Zephany Nurse court case. Zephany Nurse came to prominence after it was discovered she was kidnapped as a baby in 1997. Her kidnapper‚ who raised her as her own child‚ was convicted for the kidnapping in August 2016. During the case Nurse‚ who uses another name‚ and the centre were concerned that the media would reveal her true identity once she turns 18‚ leading to emotional trauma and public scrutiny.
Public Works Minister, Thulas Nxesi says the torching of government buildings is too much of a coincidence. Minister, Nxesi and the Ministers of Health Aaron Motsoaledi were briefing the media on an attempted burning down of Civitas Building which house the National Department of Health. They are suggesting that the fire could be linked to the state capture investigations.
The Banking Association of South Africa has warned of serious consequences of changing constitution to expropriate land. The association is making oral presentations on possible expropriation of land without compensation in Parliament. The Constitutional Review Committee is expected to wrap up its hearings of oral submissions on the possible amendment of the constitution to facilitate the expropriation.
Property owners renting out buildings used as spaza shops to foreigners in Soweto, are living in fear as threats of violence against them intensify. Last week chaos broke out in several parts of the township as locals clashed with foreign shop owners. Three people were killed. The violence follows allegations that foreign-owned shops were selling fake or expired goods. There has also been reports that this particular outbreak of violence was sparked by the killing of a teenage boy allegedly by a foreign shop owner. Sashin Naidoo visited the area and compiled this report.
Legal representative for Ajay Gupta, Mike Hellens, has submitted a request to the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, that seeks to bar witnesses from seeing Ajay Gupta's response to their statements implicating him. Advocate Hellens is seeking to cross examine both former ANC MP Vytjie Mentor and former GCIS head Themba Maseko. Here is part of the interaction between Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo who chair the commission and Advocate Hellens.
Western Cape Forensic Pathology Services have confirmed that they have retrieved all the remains of the victims who died in Monday's explosion at the Rheinmetall Denel Munitions plant In Somerset West. It says teams are currently conducting DNA matching to identify the victims. Initial indications are that 8 people died in the blast, however the company is refuting this figure saying they cannot confirm the number of fatalities. Berenice Moss reports.
The fire at the Bank of Lisbon Building in the Johannesburg CBD continues to rage on this afternoon. Three fire fighters died yesterday as they attempted to douse the flames, which have since spread to other floors today. Eight of their colleagues are currently in hospital with two in critical condition. Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba, says structures that are not compliant with safety standards, must be demolished and rebuilt.
China's richest man and founding Director of the Alibaba Group, Jack Ma says his investment attractions in Africa are focused towards young people, women and entrepreneurs in rural areas. Ma has been in dialogue with President Cyril Ramaphosa in Hangzhou where Ramaphosa hopes to raise 1.3 trillion rands in the hope to spurring economic growth and creating jobs.
The South African economy has suffered a mighty blow as it slips into its first recession since 2009. The grim announcement from Statistics South Africa comes on the back of news that the price of petrol will increase by four-point-nine cents a litre next week. The SABC's Economics Editor Thandeka Qqubule spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Former CEO of retail giant Steinhoff International Holdings, Markus Jooste, says he lost 3 billion rand after the company’s share price fell as the accounting scandal emerged last year. Jooste resigned last December as the company’s advisory board decided that a new probe should be instituted into allegations of fraud. He says he was not willing to go through another probe when there had been an independent investigation by German authorities. He says the delay in the release of the financial results would have reflected badly on him as CEO. Meanwhile chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio on Finance Yunus Carrim has warned Jooste that his reluctance to come clean about what transpired at the company may work against him in future.
Joburg Emergency Services have confirmed that one firefighter has died after falling from the Gauteng Health and Human Settlements building in the city center where he was part of a team that was exhinguishing a blaze. Three emergency workers are currently trapped inside the building. Joburg Emergency spokesperson Nana Hadebe says it is unclear at this stage what caused the fire.
DNA test are yet to be conducted on the body of a child found dumped in Phoenix north of Durban in KwaZulu Natal. It is suspected that it may belong to nine year old Miguel Louw who disapeared in July but police have cautioned against any speculation. Prabashni Naicker reports.
Leaders of the Liberated Metalworkers Union in the Western Cape, say they want union members to be part of the safety team appointed by Rheinmetal Denel Munition. This follows an explosion which has resulted in the death of at least eight workers. The employees were conducting blending operations of propellants at the time of the accident. Chief Executive Officer of Rheinmetal Denel Munition, Norbert Schulze held a media briefing today.
The National Forum on the Legal Profession has welcomed the new South African Legal Practice Council which comes into effect in November this year. The Council will regulate all lawyers and advocates and will replace the four societies across the country. Jutice minister Michael Masutha says the process for nominating members to serve on the council open tonight. Deputy Chairperson of the National Forum on the Legal Profession, Max Boqwana says this body will look after the interests of the public and not those of lawyers.
Metrorail says a human error may be to blame for the collision of two trains in Selby Johannesburg this morning. 112 people were injured, seven of those sustained serious injuries. The trains were coming from opposite ends. Our reporter Pearl Magubane is at the scene of the accident.
Senior Lecturer at the Wits University’s School of Economics and Business Science, Lumkile Mondi says the private sector must play its part in order to help lift South Africa out of the current recession. Statistics SA has released figures showing that the country has sunk into a recession. The economy contracted by 0.7 percent in the second quarter while the number was at 2,2 percent in the first quarter. Contributing factors include a slump in agriculture production, the transport industry, and manufacturing. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mondi.
GCIS Acting Director-General Phumla Williams broke down during her testimony at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry today. Williams has told the commission about the abuse that she was allegedly subjected to by former Communications minister Faith Muthambi who bullied her. She says she had to seek medical help as she continued to work under stressful conditions which triggered panic attacks that she had experienced after being tortured for being involved in the struggle against apartheid in 1988. Our reporter Mbali Thethani is at the Commission and we also crossed live to the proceedings.
The Hawks says they will not pity anyone implicated during the State Capture Commission of Inquiry. This follows the suspension of the head of the Hawks Anti-Corruption task team, Major-General Zinhle Mnonopi. She was accused of having tried to influence former deputy finance minister, Mcebisi Jonas, to quash a case involving Ajay Gupta, during the height of state capture. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hawks Spokesperson Brigader Hangwani Mulaudzi.
Our weekly feature Coalface with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Acting Director-General at the Government Communications and Information Systems (GCIS) Phumla Williams has told of how she was bullied and demoted by Minister Faith Muthambi while she was on leave. She is testifying at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry. She earlier told of how former head of GCIS Mzwanele Jimmy Manyi manipulated reporting structures so that employees in key roles could report to him directly. Williams received an sms during the tea break at the commission from Manyi saying she should say that he was not responsible for signing off on the controversial TNA/SABC Breakfasts.
The ANC says the fragile coalitions inthe DA-led metros in Port Elizabeth and Tshwane were bound to collapse. Head of the ANC's election campaign, Fikile Mbalula, says the nature of bullying in the DA will always be a challenge for the party. He says the ANC is ready to take over the metros and deliver services to South Africans. Mbalula addressed the media in Johannesburg earlier today, following the recent ousting of Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Mayor, Athol Trollip. He says what is currently happening in the metros is a result of failed coalitions and not the ANC's inability to govern.
Community leaders at the Sol Plaatjie Municipality in the Northern Cape have urged residents not to take to the streets following the reinstatement of mayor Mangaliso Matika, by the high court in Kimberely yesterday. A community meeting has been scheduled for this afternoon at five where a way forward will be decided on. Matika was removed during a council meeting last month, which the court has ruled was illegal. Unhappy residents had been protesting for days in the run up to Matika’s removal because of a tariff hike he and his officials implemented. There were also allegations of corruption. Our reporter Puleng Modupi is on the story.
Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, Deputy Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo has called on ministers who were summoned to the Gupta residence in Saxonwold Johannesburg, to discuss government business to come forward. Former GCIS CEO Themba Maseko has told the commission that Ajay had revealed during their meeting in 2010 that if ministers did not cooperate they were called to the home or that Zuma was instructed to deal with them. Maseko says he was given orders during that meeting to inform ministers to transfer their advertising spend to the coffers of the GCIS so that the money could be channelled to the now defunct New Age newspaper and ANN7 TV station. He says Zuma has phoned him during his drive to the Gupta home telling him to assist what he described as his “brothers”.
The Somali Community Board in South Africa has denied that spaza shop owners intentionally sell expired and fake products. It says its members buy their goods from reputable wholesalers. This comes after some communities around country decided to remove counterfeit products and those that have reached their sell-by-date. Three people died in Soweto yesterday following what police have described as an act of criminality that is not related to the campaign of confiscating goods from shops owned by foreign nationals. Secretary-General of The Somali Community Board in South Africa, Adirizak Osman, has told Sakina Kamwendo that there is no way that its members can manufacture fake goods in the small backyards which they operate from.
Danielle de Bruyn a teacher at Westville Girls High School, resigned on Monday following an incident last week in which she is accused of calling black people the k-word. It is understood that de Bruyn was embroiled in a heated debate with her English class over drawing similarities between a set book‚ Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird'‚ with the South African political landscape and farm killings. The school has since issued a statement condemning her racist remarks‚ insisting that her "loss of control and bigoted view" was not congruent with the ethos of the school.
Former Government Communication and Information System head Themba Maseko has taken the stand at the Zondo Commission currently on-going at Parktown in Johanneburg. Maseko is the fourth witness to come forward with testimony of how the Guptas, with former President Jacob Zuma's assistance, allegedly tried to force him to redirect R600-million of government advertising to the New Age newspaper.
Retail giant Steinhoff is under pressure from Parliament's joint sitting committees seeking to find answers to the reasons which led to the crash of its shares to give times frames on investigations into the matter. The company's board chairperson Heather Sonn is briefing the committee on the latest regarding their investigations.
Former ANC MP, Vytjie Mentor says it was shocking for her to hear that Ajay Gupta was privy to top secret government information. Mentor has been giving testimony for the second day, at the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in Johannesburg. She says Ajay Gupta revealed the information while they were at the Gupta residence in Saxonwold before offering her a ministerial post.
British Prime Minister, Theresa May, says Britain supports South Africa's land reform programme, provided it's carried out legally. She was addressing a business meeting in Cape Town earlier today ahead of bilateral discussions with the South Africa government. May arrived in the country this morning. Last week United States President Donald Trump caused a stir when he tweeted that he had called on his Secretary of State to study South African land and farm seizures and the killing of farmers.
The DA says voters will not forget that their wishes for change have been undermined by the new coalition that took over yesterday. Athol Trollip was outsted as the mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro after opposition parties that include the EFF, the UDM and the ANC voted him out. A DA councillor who abstained during the vote has had his membership terminated by the party. The coalition has been shaky since the local government elections in 2016. DA leader Mmusi Maimane says they will be going to court to challenge the process that led to Trollip's removal.
EFF Leader Julius Malema says there is something untoward about the deal between MultiChoice and Newzroom Afrika, which is the winning bidder for the 24-hour news channel to be broadcast on DSTV next year. MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela says the company is black-owned and that half of the shareholders are women. He says it met all the criteria, but Malema says he has evidence to prove otherwise. MultiChoice made the announcement at a media briefing this morning and our reporter Amina Accram was there.
Former ANC MP Vytjie Mentor has revealed to the State Capture Commission of Inquiry how she received a call while on a trip in China from one of the Gupta brothers, who told her that former President Jacob Zuma would like to meet her. Mentor began giving testimony at the commission in Johannesburg this morning. She says she was called from reception in her hotel room, by the Guptas who told her that they wanted to drive her to Zuma.
The Pan African Student Movement of Azania (PASMA), has confirmed that the person killed during last night's violence at the Tshwane University of Technology's Soshanguve campus in Pretoria, was its member. The commotion started after allegations emerged that SRC elections at the campus were rigged. Police were called in and it's alleged that the SAPS members are responsible for the death. University spokesperson Willa de Ryter says the Independent Police Investigative Directorate is investigating this matter.
Former chairperson of the ANC in the Northern Cape, John Block, and businessman businessman Christo Scholtz are expected to apply for bail on Monday. It was earlier reported that they have been declared fugitives for failing to hand themselves over to start their 15-year sentences for fraud and corruption relating to lease agreements between 2006 and 2008 with state entities. The pair's appeal case was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeals yesterday. There is an indication that they will now approach the Constitutional Court. The Hawks' Hangwani Mulaudzi has clarified the issue when speaking to Sakina Kamwendo.
Former Deputy Finance Minister, Mcebisi Jonas has revealed that Ajay Gupta had allegedly threatened to kill him if he spoke about a meeting where he was offered 600-Million rands and the position of Finance Minister. Jonas has been giving his testimony at the Zondo Commission into State Capture currently underway in Parktown, Johannesburg. Jonas says former president Jacob Zuma' son Duduzani Zuma and businessman, Fana Hlongwana had arranged and were present at this meeting with Ajay Gupta
The Social Justice Coalition has argued that it's unjustifiable that its activists cannot find employment because they have criminal records for engaging in a peaceful demonstraton. The Constitutional Court on Tuesday heard the matter of 10 activists who were convicted for protesting at the Cape Town Civic Centre in 2013, over poor sanitation in Khayelitsha, without giving notice. The Western Cape High Court has since overturned the convictions and declared Section 12(1)(a) of the Regulation of Gatherings Act unconstitutional. Wisani Makhubele reports.
This Women's Month, the taboo subject of women perpetrating violence against each other, came under the spotlight. A young female DJ was allegedly attacked by an older female patron at a restaurant in Umhlanga, north of Durban. Carly Bernadette Oosthuizen, popularly known as DJ Carly O, took to social media after her alleged attack. She says she wanted to speak out against women-on-women violence. In a security video that has since surfaced, the elderly female is seen hurling ice and verbally abusing Oosthuizen. Rachel Vadi reports.
Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe is considering withdrawing the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) Amendment Bill. The minister says the current act can govern the mining sector, and the petroleum sector can have its own legislative framework. This follows several delays in Parliament. Elvis Presslin spoke to Department of Mineral Resources spokesperson Ayanda Shezi.
The DA has asked the High Court in Kimberely in the Northern Cape, to declare a meeting that saw former Mayor of the Sol Plaatje Municipality, Mangaliso Matika ousted, as legal. Matika was removed during a special council meeting last month and Pule Thabane was elected as the new mayor. Other opposition parties including the ANC and the EFF are also in court. The DA says should the court find that the meeting was illegal it should rule that a special council meeting be held within five days of the ruling. Our reporter Refilwe Mekoa is in court.
Companies doing business with St. George's Fine Foods have distanced themselves from one of the shareholders, Adam Catzavelos, and the comments he made regarding black people. There has been an outrage after a video emerged in which Catzavelos calls black people the "k" word and expresses that he is happy that there are none at the beach he was at in Greece at the time. His family has also dismissed him from the company. Elvis Presslin spoke to our producer Aphiwe Honono who has been following the story.
Opposition parties in Zimbabwe that wanted to make submissions to the Constitutional Court regarding the MDC Alliance's legal challenge against last month's elections have been dismissed. The court says the documents were not handed in on time. Senior Counsel for the MDC Alliance, Thabani Mpofu is currently in court arguing that the July elections should be nullify because of alleged rigging on ZANU-PF's part. The party' won both the parliamentary and presidential elections. Earlier this morning the MDC Alliance's legal representatives were barred from entering the court. This team includes heavy weights, advocates Thembeka Ngcukaitobi and Dali Mpofu. Our correspondent in Zimbabwe is Ephert Musekiwa and he spoke to Elvis Presslin.
The Chief Financial Officer of the SABC has told Parliament that the public broadcaster is in a dire financial situation. Yolande van Biljon says the organisation will only have R26 million at the end of this month. The SABC together with the Communications Minister are appearing before the Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Communications today. Our Parliamentary correspondent Mercedes Besent is following the story.
Procument issues have come under the spotlight during the first day of testimonies at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry. Acting National Treasury Chief Procurement Officer, Ndleleni Mathubula is the first witness and he has told the commission that the bidding process must be more open and competitive. His was answering questions from the commission's evidence leader, Advocate Leah Gcabashe.
Scores of residents have started to gather at the offices of the local municipality in Matatiele in the Eastern Cape where the MEC for Roads and Transport Weziwe Tikana, is expected to address them. The community has shut down the the rural town over a demand for proper roads. There was a violent protest last week during which the residents were raising issues of poor service delivery. Three state vehicles as well as the Public Works office were torched, destroying important documents. Our reporter Fundiswa Mhlekude is following the story.
The Department of Water and Sanitation says it has so far issued 11 notices to the Emfuleni instructing it to stop the pollution in the Vaal River but it has not been cooperating. Raw sewerage has been spilling into the river and is having a dire effect on many business owners who have built their lives and livelihoods there. Guesthouse owners, adventure tour companies and fishing expeditions who all rely on the river to attract tourists say people are hesitant to visit the area as they fear for their health and safety. The SABC's Jamaine Krige is following the story and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the regional head of the Department of Water and Sanitation, Sbusiso Mthembu
The South African rail, port and pipeline company, Transnet, has seen an 11.3% rise in revenue for the year ended March 2018. It's revenue is now at R72,9 billion. The company has had negative results with irregular expenditure running into millions. It is also one of the state-owned enterprises embroiled in the state capture scandal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Transnet CEO Siyabonga Gama about the Transnet financial results.
The High Court in Cape Town has dismissed Henri van Breda's application for leave to appeal his conviction and sentence. He was found guilty of murdering his parents and his brother at their home in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape. His sister was severely injured during the attack. He hacked his family with an axe in 2015. Van Breda was sentenced to life for the murders and an additional 15 years for attempted murder.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), has called on the public to make donations so that it can continue to provide assistance to people who have mental illnesses. The NGO is running out of funds and this may force it to cut down on some services it provides. The organisation says some of the individuals who call the helpline are suicidal. SADAG's Operations Manager Cassey Chambers says the number of people who have been calling has shot up to 600 per day since Professor Bongani Mayosi who was a Dean of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town, committed suicide three weeks ago. He suffered from depression. Statistics show that a third of South Africans have some form of mental health problem. This number excludes childen and teenagers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chambers.
Deputy Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo, who is chairing the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, says the State Security Agency and the National Treasury should have provided assistance ahead of the start of the inquiry. He was speaking on day one of the hearings held in Parktown Johannesburg. The commission was set up to investigate, among others, the alleged influence of the Gupta family in the appointments of senior officials at government departments and state-owned enterprises. Zondo says the first challenge they encountered was regarding issues of fo security clearance.
Fans around the world are mourning the death of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. It emerged earlier this week that the 76-year-old was gravely ill and receiving hospice care at her home in Detroit. She died of advanced pancreatic cancer. Executive Producer Krivani Pillay takes a look at Aretha Franklin's her life through her music
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane has strongly criticized South African Police Services for failure to provide security for the whistle-blowers in the murder of former ANC youth league secretary-general and PR Councillor at uMzimkhulu Municipality, Sindiso Magaqa. Thabiso Zulu, an ANC member, anti-corruption activist and friend of Magaqa, and Les Stuta, an official at Harry Gwala Municipality, were responsible for blowing the lid on the alleged reasons behind the assassination of Magaqa which resulted in them receiving death threats. After approaching the police for assistance and being pushed from pillar to post, Zulu eventually approached the public protector.
Two community members have been arrested in connection with an incident of mob justice which left one person dead in the eastrand on Wednesday. The pair were part of a group that assaulted, stabbed and shot a boy outside his house. Another boy was attacked outside a school in the area and set alight. He is currently in hospital. The community accused the two of being part of a gang that is terrorising residents in the area. Meanwhile Gateng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi is in Daveyton to engage with the school, the police and thecommunity. A local community leader Bishop Sandile Sivungu spoke out against taking the law into their own hands.
The motion of no confidence again the DA Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Athol Trollip has been postponed after the opposition parties seeking to remove him walked out of a council meeting this morning. They raised issues around the legality of the meeting. This was to be the fourth attempt to remove Trollip from office. It was unclear before the meeting whether the Patriotic Alliance would vote with the DA. The party is the kingmaker. The parties in coalition with the DA lambasted the EFF, the ANC and the other smaller parties supporting the motion.
Hundreds of residents around Marikana in the North West have gathered at the Koppie where 34 mineworkers were killed six years ago. This ahead of an AMCU organised programme to commemorate the Marikana tragedy. AMCU president Joseph Mathunjwa is expected to give the keynote address this afternoon. Ten other people died in the days leading up to the massacre as the workers continued to strike. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter in Marikana Itumeleng Kgajane.
Media Monitoring Africa says the government of Mozambique should be helping journalists to do their jobs better instead of trying to impede them. It is being alleged that authorities in that country are introducing exorbitant media accreditation fees for journalists working there. Many have called this an assault on freedom of the press and a clear attempt to clamp down on journalists. Under new regulations, foreign correspondents living in Mozambique will be expected to pay more than R120 000 per year to report in the country while local freelance journalists will have to pay about R7 000 in accreditation fees. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to researcher from Media Monitoring Africa's Researcher Ntsako Manganyi.
Some residents in Marikana in the North West, say they are disappointed that president Cyril Ramaphosa has not yet visited the area, despite promises he made publicly. Some still blame Ramaphosa for the manner in which police handled the 2012 strike that resulted in the deaths of 34 miners on August 16 and ten other people including security guards and police officers in the preceeding week. Ramaphosa was a non-executive board member at the platinum giant at the time. He was further criticised for his email to the then police minister Nathi Mthethwa, which was calling for action to end the strike. Itumeleng Kgajane has the story.
The death of Mark Minnie, co-author of the controversial book "The Lost Boys of Bird Island", has shocked many South Africans. It implicates a prominent businessman and two former National Party ministers, including Magnus Malan, as central figures in an alleged paedophilia ring that operated during the apartheid era. The book alleges the trio molested and raped minors at Bird Island off the coast of Port Elizabeth. Minnie's body was found at a friend's home in Theescombe outside Port Elizabeth. New information from police however, says the gun found did not belong to Minnie and a suicide note was found. Kim Daniels reports.
The African Independent Congress (AIC) which is in a coalition with the ANC at at least two key municipalities, is once again threatening to pull out of the partnership. It has given the ANC 30 days to mend relations or face losing the Ekurhuleni and Rustenburg municipalities. The AIC gave the ANC numbers at the municipalities following the 2016 local government elections on condition that the ANC-led government re-incorporates Matatiele back to KwaZulu-Natal. But the AIC claims the ANC has shown no commitment to honour the agreement. Ntebo Mokobo reports.
Tributes have been pouring in for struggle stalwart Zondeni Veronica Sobukwe, who was affectionately known as Mother of Azania. Sobukwe died in the early hours of this morning at the age of 91. Remembered as a strong anti-apartheid activist, she was also the wife of the late Pan Africanist Congress leader, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe. Our executive Producer Krivani Pillay takes a look at the life of Zondeni Veronica Sobukwe.
Mining company Goldfields has denied that it failed to follow legal processes before announcing that it plans to cut 1 560 jobs at its Deep South Mine in Johannesburg. The company is responding to Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe's statement that the business is breaching laws that govern the sector. The company has for years been operating at a loss running into millions each month. It says shedding jobs has become unavoidable. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Goldfields spokesperson Sven Lunsche.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says current models of sanitation are expensive, they require large scale networks of infrastructure and use high energy budgets. Ramaphosa was speaking at the launch of the Sanitation Appropriation for Education Initiative in Pretoria. The initiative seeks to eradicate pit latrines in the country's schools and save lives following a series of deaths involving children using these latrines. Ramaphosa says innovative measures and new technologies should be at the centre of abolishing these latrines. Meanwhile NGO Equal Education says it is disappointing and ironic that government is wasting taxpayers' money appealing the #FixTheNorms judgement that set the deadline for government to fix school infrastructure, including toilets. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the organisation's General-Secretary Noncedo Madubedube.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education is investigating an incident which has allegedly led to the suicide of a 17-year old learner at a school in Chartworths, near Durban. Matthew David was allegedly confronted and verbally attacked by his school principal and a member of the school governing body about his sexual orientation. He was found dead at his home in Westcliff. His brother Joshua David explains what happened.
The co-author of explosive book, The Lost Boys of Bird Island, has been found dead in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. Mark Minnie, a former policeman, together with reporter, Chris Steyn, details in the book how former National Party defence minister, Magnus Malan and other National Party ministers allegedly had sex with young boys during fishing excursions, on Bird Island near PE. Executive producer of the actuality TV show Focus, Alet Van Rensburgh Wright, who has been investigating the kidnappings of girls in the 1980s by paedophile, Gert Van Rooyen, spoke to our presenter Sakina Kamwendo.
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Michael Masutha says corruption within the State Attorney's office is costing government billions of rands. Masutha together with the ministers of police and health, briefed the media this morning in Pretoria about an investigation that the Special Investigative Unit has launched into unethical and corrupt activities. The minister says they have to pursue legal practitioners who have been colluding with their counterparts in private practise in order to defraud government. Masutha says this probe comes after a consulation process with stakeholders in the legal fraternity.
Tributes continue to pour in for hip-hop artist ProKid. The 37-year-old Soweto-born musician, whose real name is Linda Mkhize, died on Wednesday night after suffering a seizure. Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa joined scores of fans who took to social media to pay tribute to the musician. Political parties have also expressed their condolences. ProKid is regarded as one of the pioneers of local hip hop and has inspired a lot of local rappers. Wisani Makhubele compiled this report.
The children of the late legendary actor and playwright Dr. Wintson Ntshona say he was a loving and humble father. Ntshona has been accorded a Special Official Provincial funeral. The service was held in his home town of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape earlier today. He passed away last week at the age of 77 after a long illness. The eldest daughter of the Tony award winner and recepient of the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, Nomfundo Sonjici, had the following to say.
The legal representative of controversial senior National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) officials, Nomgcobo Jiba and Lawrence Mrwebi, says they will submit a letter to the president by the end of the day explaining why the pair should not be suspended. President Cyril Ramaphosa has given them until today to do so, as he plans to establish a commission of inquiry into their fitness to hold office. He says he is concerned about how their actions are impacting on the credibility of the NPA. Liela Magnus reports.
The National Union of Mineworkers NUM, says power utility Eskom, is provoking its members by announcing that there will be disciplinary action against those who allegedly sabotaged the supply of electricity. Unions at the company have been on strike for weeks now over wages and other issues such as bonuses. The union says the employer wants to blame workers for acts committed by other strikers and that they are not happy with how Eskom is approaching this matter. The unions have, in principle, accepted the latest offer but the deals still hangs in the balance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Chief Negotiator at Eskom, Helen Diatile.
About 200 people have gathered outside the offices of the Sephaku Cement factory in Lichtenburg in the North West, to handover a memorandum of demands. The group comprises of employees of the company who are complaining about their working conditions, EFF supporters and community members. The company has been operating in the area for four years. Our reporter Bafedile Moerane is following the story.
Rail company Metrorail says it will provide buses to help commuters connect from Naledi train station to New Canada. Trains could not operate between Naledi in Soweto and Johannesburg because of a power outage caused by cable theft. Angry commuters attempted to set alight coaches but failed to do so. They instead stormed the offices and caused damage to property. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Metrorail's Lillian Mofokeng.
Today marks Women's Day in South Africa. It has been 62 years since the historic march to the Union Buildings by 20 000 women. Despite improvements in some areas, women continue to face rape and other forms of violence on a daily basis. This is main issue that was raised by speakers. The main event is taking place in Paarl in the Western Cape.
Thousands of residents in the mining areas of Brits in the North West have marched to the offices of companies that are mining in their areas. They are complaining that the businesses do not employ locals and are not abiding by the social responsibility plans, part of which is to develop the areas they mine in. The march is being led by a group called VTSD Chamber of Commerce. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane.
The Gauteng MEC of Education, Panyaza Lesufi says during the online registration period they received close to 300 000 applications. Lesufi says to date, the department has made 193 587 offers of placement to applicants and only about 75 000 offers were accepted. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lesufi to find out how far the department is in placing learners for the 2019 academic year.
After last week's ANC lekgotla, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the party directed government to implement a stimulus package to ignite growth. At the same Stats SA last week revealed that South Africa's unemployment rate rose to 27.2% of the labour force in the second quarter from 26.7% in the first three months of this year. Now South Africans await the details of what Ramaphosa's stimulus package will look like. We posed this question to Economic Editors at SABC News Thandeka Gqubule.
Rhodes University law student Khensani Maseko's funeral will take place in Johannesburg tomorrow. She reportedly committed suicide at the weekend after accusing her boyfriend of raping her in May this year. Yesterday, the university's Vice-Chancellor, Sizwe Mabizela stressed the importance of educating young men to respect women and their rights. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Iviwe Poti.
The search continues this afternoon for one worker of the KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board who is feared to have drowned in Richards Bay. He was part of a five member team that was conducting a routine inspection of sharks nets at the time their boat capsized this morning. For more on this we are joined on the line by the spokesperson for the National Sea Rescue Institute, Craig Lambinon.
Tendai Biti's Lawyer, Nqobizitha Mlilo says the Zimbabwean opposition figure is seeking political asylum in Zambia because he fears for his life. Biti was arrested at the border post between that country and Zimbabwe earlier today. Police in his home country say they want to question Biti following the country's disputed elections which took place last week. Violence broke out as thousands of opposition supporters protested against the announcement of a two-thirds majority for President Emmerson Magagwa's Zanu-PF party. The SABC's foreign editor spoke to Biti's lawyer.
The Department of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs has appointed 81 new town planners and engineers who will help improve the infrastructure of municipalities. Sixty percent of municipalities in the country have collapsed or are near collapsing due ot issues of governance, infrastructure and financial mismanagement. This has led to failure in providing adequate service delivery. Municipal IQ which collects data on local municipalities says there has been nearly 150 protests since the beginning of 2018. For more on this we are joined on the line by the Deputy Minister for the Department of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs Andries Nel.
The community of Alexandra in Johannesburg says it has been forgotten by the government. Residents are staging a protest outside the ANC's headquarters at Luthuli House, over title deeds that have not been issued. Alex as the area is popularly known, is one of the oldest townships in the country. Community leader Tony Mtibi has told Sakina Kamwendo that they are not asking for RDP houses but documents that confirm ownership of their houses.
Nonhlanhla Khumalo-Mayosi, wife of the late Professor, Bongani Mayosi, says the University of Cape Town used his high sense of duty to keep him at the institution despite his clear indications that he wanted to resign as Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. She says Mayosi's attempts to resign from his position were denied by UCT on two occasions. Last week, he committed suicide after battling depression for almost two years. Mayosi's funeral was held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. He was granted a special provincial official funeral by President Cyril Ramaphosa. He was 51-years-old. Corbin August reports.
The Management of Rhodes University says it wants the police to conduct an inquest into the death of 23-year old student Khensani Maseko who committed suicide last week. She was apparently suffering from depression after being allegedly raped by her boyfriend. Meanwhile students at Nelson Mandela University are up in arms over allegations that a student was raped over the weekend.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs is cracking down on traders who sell food prepared under unhealthy conditions as well as those who are not registered. MEC Sihle Zikalala says consumers must be protected. He spoke to our presenter Sakina Kamwendo.
The situation is calm in Harare, Zimbabwe today following that country's electoral commission's announcement that ZANU-PF candidate Emmerson Mnangagwa won the presidential seat in Monday's poll. Six people died during a protest in the city on Wednesday when police and soldiers opened fire. The MDC Alliance supporters took to the streets following an announcement by party leader and presidential candidate Nelson Chamisa that he had won. He has since threatened to take legal action. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our Acting Deputy Political Editor, Busi Chimombe.
Students at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape will finally write their mid-year exams after an eight week delay due to a strike by Nehawu members. The students have been meeting with the university management to find ways that would allow students to sit for their summative assessments. The university will be tightening security at its all its three campuses.
Political Analyst and lecturer at the Nelson Mandela University Ongama Mtimka says it will be difficult to form an alliance not led by the DA or ANC in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. This comes as opposition parties in the Metro prepare to hand in a petition for another motion of no-confidence against Mayor Athol Trollip next week. The DA also briefed the media this morning about its successes at the Johannebsurg, Tshwane and Nelson Mandela Bay Metros since taking over two years but it shied away from addressing questions about the motion of no-confidence against Trollip. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mtika about this.
Police Minister, Bheki Cele says police have arrested 43 suspects linked to cash-in-transit heists and recovered millions of rands in the month of June alone. Cele was addressing the media in Tembisa on Gauteng's Eastrand where he announced a 63 percent drop in the number of heists since the launch of the aggravated robbery stabilisation campaign.
Residents of Potchefstroom are currently protesting against Mayor Kgotso Khumalo whom they want to resign. Our reporter Bafedile Moerane is at the scene of the protest.
MDC Alliance leader Tendai Biti is expected to hand himself over to the Zimbabwean police this afternoon. He is accused of inciting violence while speaking to his party supporters yesterday by insisting that his organisation had won the parliamentary elections even though the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission had announced otherswise. Three people died shortly thereafter during clashes with the police and soldiers. Biti's lawyer, Nqobizitha Mlilo has confirmed that his client will go to the police.
The Missing Childrens Organisation says 124 children have been reported missing in the year ending April 2018. Many of them were kidnapped and trafficked, while some ran away from home. Fortunately, most of those who go missing are found, but the emotional trauma remains. Two young women who were recently abducted, drugged and used as sex slaves, bravely shared their story with the SABC's Chantal Gouws. Their names have been changed to protect their identity.
Former DA MP, Lindiwe Mazibuko, has called for an active citizenry to take up the matter of electoral reform, even if it means going to the Constitutional Court. Mazibuko was addressing the Cape Town Press Club. Zalene Merrington reports.
SADeC observers say they have noted with concern the role of traditional leaders and state media in influencing voters to cast their ballots in favour of the ruling ZANU-PF in Monday's poll. Addressing the media in Harare, head of SADeC's Electoral Observation Mission, Manuel Domingos Augusto says although the voting process was largely peaceful and orderly, anyone with any objections should desist from violence and use available channels to raise their grievances.
Hundreds of women and people identifying themselves as non-gender conforming have marched across the country today, to highlight the plight of women who have been subjected to violence. The #TotalShutDown movement organisers say the campaign started on social media but has now been extended beyond that platform. Levels of various kinds of abuse directed at women are very high in the country. Our reporter Leila Magnus is in Pretoria.
The ranger that was killed by poachers at the Kruger National Park last week, Respect Mathebula, has been honoured for his contribution in the fight against poaching at the park. This comes as the park marks World Rangers Day today. Mathebula was buried over the weekend and is the first ranger to be killed by poachers in 50 years at the Kruger Park. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Ranger at the Park, Nicholas Funda.
The community of a settlement outside White River in Mpumalanga is up in arms as the sheriff demolishes their homes after the owners of the land secured an eviction order. The land is owned by the Mathafeni Trust. Police are monitoring the situation closely. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Motsebi Monareng.
Commuters will wake up to another taxi fare increase tomorrow. The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) made the announcement this via social media this morning. Fuel prices have been escalating over the past few months. Meanwhile, the DA staged a picket outside the office of the the Treasury Department in Johannesburg this morning over the fuel increases. Leader of the party, Mmusi Maimane says government should privatize the national carrier, SAA and cut its bloated cabinet in order to curb the recent increases in both fuel and food price hikes. He was joined by various organizations which include the Organisation for the Undoing of Tax Abuse and political parties including the ACDP, COPE and the Freedom Front Plus.
Zimbabwean Electoral Commission chairperson, Priscilla Chigumba says vote counting in most provinces has been completed and some results will be announced this afternoon. Chigumba was addressing the media earlier today where she also warned against premature announcements of the results by both the media and politicians. Chigumba also noted that at least over a percentage of the registered voters could not cast their votes for various reasons.
Statistics SA says the official unemployment rate in the country has increased by 0,5% to 27,2%. It released its quarterly labour force survey for the second quarter of 2018 earlier today. In the first quarter, South Africa's unemployment rate was at 26.7%. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mining and Labour Analyst Mamokgethi Molopyane.
Today is the last day of the 10th BRICS Summit in Sandton. Leaders from across the world met to discuss issues of the economy and other ways of strengthening their partnerships to the benefit of their nations. Journalists from across the world also flocked to the conference and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to some of them.
EFF leader Julius Malema has once again made a call for land to be expropriated. He was speaking outside the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court where he is facing charges of contravening of the 1956 Riotous Assemblies Act after allegedly inciting his supporters to invade land during the party's inaugural conference in 2014. The case has been postponed to the June 21st next year. Malema says they are also determined to challenge the constitutionality of the Act...Meanwhile the EFF will be celebrating its fifth birthday tomorrow at Sisa Dukashe in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.
The case of former president Jacob Zuma has been postponed to November the 30th of this year 2018. Zuma appeared in the High Court in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal this morning facing 16 charges of fraud, corruption and racketeering stemming from a multi-billion-rand arms deal. This after both the defence and the prosecution agreed on the postponement. Zuma's new legal teams requested more time to familiarise itself with the case. Judge President Mjabuliseni Madondo has the following to say about today's proceedings.
Today's Constitutional Court ruling on labour brokering is being hailed as a victory for labour. The judgment means that workers may only be in the employ of both a labour broker and a main employer for three months. After that period, they no longer fall under the umbrella of the labour broker, but only the main employer. The Concourt has dismissed with costs TES labour brokering firm's appeal against an earlier Labour Appeal Court judgment in favour of Numsa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Numsa's Ntional Spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola.
More people are going to die of AIDS-related deaths globally, due to insufficient funding from donors. This is a warning issued at the 22nd International AIDS Conference in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Intenational advocacy organisation, Health Gap, says while HIV prevention and treatment tools have been proven to work, millions of people will continue to die unnecessarily. Thabile Mbhele reports
The South African Heath Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has issued a recall on blood pressure and heart condition drug, Dynaval Co, due to cancer fears. This follows findings that one of Dynaval Co's ingredients has been contaminated with chemicals that can possibly cause the disease. The contamination was found in Valsartan, which is imported from China. Similar recalls were recently made in Europe and the United States. akina Kmwendo spoke to SAHPRA's representative, Florah Matlala
World leaders and business people are meeting in Johannesburg to discuss issue of trade amongst BRICS nations. The 10th Business Summit kicked yesterday with South Africa's Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies calling for more cooperation. We broadcast live from the Sandton where we spoke to variouys role players and analysts.
DA leader Mmusi Maimane has called on government to urgently reduce the fuel levy by 20 cent per litre. He made the appeal at a media briefing in Pretoria as the petrol price in South Africa reaches record highs. Several organisations including the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, taxi and transport associations were represented at the media briefing. Maimane announced planned action in relation to the increasing and unaffordable fuel prices that the government has imposed.
Sibusiso Tshabalala who shot his teenage son to death at Fred Norman Secondary School in Ennerdale last month, has appeared briefly in the Lenasia Magistrates Court on a charge of murder. He says he accidentally shot Luyanda after mistaking him for a criminal who wanted to hijack him. Tshabalala was sleeping in his car when his son knocked on the window on his return from his evening classes. His case has been postponed. Our reporter Wisani Makhubele was in court.
It has emerged that the taxi shooting near Colenso in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands relates to taxi wars in the areas of Matimatolo and Ngulwane which have been ongoing for years. 11 people were killed while returning from a funeral of a taxi boss who is said to have been constantly on the run because he feared for his life. 4 people were injured and two were unharmed. Most of those killed were drivers whose owners were affiliated to the Ivory Park Taxi Association operating in Gauteng. The association's chairman, Johannes Mkhonza has told our reporter Ditaba Tsotetsi that the ambush was a case of mistaken identity.
ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa has told delegates at the party's provincial elective conference in Gauteng that candidates contesting for positions should not view each other as enemies. He was delivering a keynote address at St George Hotel, Irene in Tshwane ahead of the start of the conference. An attempt by a group from Ekhurhuleni to stop the conference from taking place, failed yesterday. The High in Johannesburg ruled that the case was not urgent. Ramaphosa has also called for unit.
Researchers at the University of Cape Town have developed a groundbreaking rapid test which diagnoses TB embedded outside the lungs. This TB test kit is known as IRISA-TB. Clinical trials have been completed successfully. Thandiswa Mawu reports
The circumstances around the shooting of a 17-year old boy at Makgolokwe Secondary School in Batlharos Village in the Northern Cape, are still unclear. The boy died after being allegedly shot by a 38-year old man who was standing outside of the school premises. The suspect handed himself over to the police on Wednesday and is appearing in the local court today. Our reporter Refilwe Makoe is on the story.
A Khoisan group led by King Khoebaha Calvin Cornelius the 3rd, has given Parliament and government until today to vacate the premises. An eviction notice was placed at the visitors centre of Parliament on Monday but was later removed by the police. Cornelius gave parliament official notice that the Khoisan people have seceded from South Africa to establish the Sovereign State of Good Hope. But the Khomani San have distanced themselves from Cornelius and the secession. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more.
Registration proceedings for the much-anticipated ANC KwaZulu-Natal elective conference at the Moses Mabhida Stadium are running smoothly despite an earlier delay. The conference was halted last month by the Pietermaritzburg High Court as some party members claimed that there was undue interference in some regions of the province which include the Lowe South, Harry Gwala and Moses Mabhida. The court also ruled last year that the results of the November 2015 elective conference has been unlawful and as this led to the formation of an interim leadership structure known as the Provincial Task Team. Leader of the structure, Sihle Zikalala spoke to our presenter Sakina Kamwendo.
The Department of Basic Education says it will use details coming out of today's court judgment to improve infrastructure at schools around the country. This comes after the Bhisho High Court in the Eastern Cape ordered government earlier today, to ensure that every school has water, electricity, functioning toilets, internet and safe classrooms amongst others. The matter was taken to court by the NGO Equal Education. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Daniel Linde from the organisation's Law Centre.
Businessman and former Steinhoff chairman Christo Wiese says facts around allegations that he is involved in tax invasion have been misinterpreted. The amaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism misinterpreted is reporting that Wiese and several companies and individuals are being pursued by SARS for tax running up to billions of rand. Wiese spoke to our presenter Sakina Kamwendo this afternoon. He says when he bought a company from ENS Africa he was not aware it owed tax.
City of Tshwane mayor Solly Msimanga and his city manager Moeketse Mosola have been summoned to appear before the Human Rights Commission within 48 hours following allegations of contaminated water in the Hammanskraal area north of Pretoria. The HRC has also launched a probe into the local Jubilee district hospital following reports of poor service delivery. Solly Salang Motsepe and Maluti Obuseng filed this report.
Security is tight at the Emmet Cecil Hall at Vryheid in northern KwaZulu-Natal, where public hearings on the proposed amendment of Section 25 of the constitution are taking place. The amendment will give or allow government to expropriate land without compensation. Police have been deployed to do a security check on everyone who enters the hall. Hundreds of community members have turned up to make their voice heard on the issue. Organisations that are fighting for the rights of farm dwellers, commercial farmers and business people are also attending. Our reporter Khalesakhe Mbhense is at the hearings.
Police in the Western Cape are investigating the murder of a 37-year-old woman from the small town of Ashton in the Boland. The woman's body was discovered in her shack. She had been stabbed to death. The incident follows only days after the body of 16-year-old Berodine Boyce, was found in Laingville at St Helena Bay, after she was reported missing. Berenice Moss reports.
The International community is celebrating Nelson Mandela centenary today. His birth place at Mvezo village, outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, is abuzz with activities, with former presidents and Miss World gracing the occasion. It's set to host the biggest celebration, attended by president Cyril Ramaphosa, who will give the keynote address. Former presidents from South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania as well as Kenyan legal expert, Professor Patrick Lumumba, who delivered the Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture in Mthatha last night, will also be in attendance. Mandela's grandson who is also the Chief of Mvezo, Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, has explained some of the festivities that will be taking place during the celebrations.
Former US president, Barack Obama says Africa's young people can effect change in many ways but warns against the idea that politics do not matter. Obama has been engaging with young people from across the continent at the African Leadership Academy in Honeydew, Johannesburg. He says young people should not shy away from politics.
Consumers will start paying a little more at the till following a jump in inflation. Statistics South Africa has reported that inflation increased by 0-point-2 percentage points taking inflation to 4-point-6 percent in June 2018, from 4-point-4 in May 2018. Sakina has unpacked these figures SABC economic editor Thandeka Gcubule.
Former First Lady Graça Machel says the planting of one hundred trees in Johannesburg ahead of the 16th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture this afternoon encapsulates the spirit of Madiba. Machel together with former US Secretary General Kofi Annan are among a group of prominent Elders involved in seeking peace, health and security across the globe. They have been joined by scores of NGO's in the one hundred sparks of hope tree planting initiative.
A report by the Human Sciences Research Council shows that the number of new infections is increasing among young people between the ages of 15 and 24. It has also revealed that incidence of HIV have dropped significantly by 44 percent when compared to the numbers in 2012. The organisation addressed the media this morning in Pretoria where it unveiled the 2017 HIV Prevalence, Incidence, Behaviour and Communication Survey. The study shows that 4.4 million people living with HIV are on treatment. One of the main focus areas was attitudes and knowledge. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Khangelani Zuma, who is the principal investigator of the study.
City of Tshwane Members of the Mayoral Committee says it will conduct an inspection tour of the Rooiwal sewage plant, north of Pretoria, later this week in an effort to deal with the contaminated water supply. Hammanskraal residents protested last week against the failure by of the Tshwane Metro to respond to the problem. Metro authorities recently had to close the Rooiwal sewage plant when it overflowed. Residents say the contaminated water is yellowish in colour and is causing diarrhoea among them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the City of Tshwane's member of the Mayoral Committee on Utilities Darrel Moss.
The Consumer Goods Council of South Africa says the counterfeit goods market has become a trillion dollar industry across G20 countries. The organisation was commenting after the arrest of six people in the Northern Cape last week on charges relating to producing fake food. The suspects were allegedly producing well-known counterfeit branded household and food items worth about R77 million. Police also confiscated the machinery allegedly used for manufacturing and packaging of the goods. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Programme Manager for Barcodes at the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa, Tarryn Daniels
Former First Lady, Graça Machel has challenged young people to redesign systems inherited from the colonial times. Machel was speaking at the Mandela Centenary Dialogue in Johannesburg. This is among multiple events to mark the 100th anniversary of former president Nelson Mandela's birth on Wednesday. Machel says young people should shape their own future
The Mayor of the Sol Plaatjie Municipality in Kimberely in the Northern Cape and the province's Premier are yet to meet to discuss issues raised by protesting residents who are accusing the Municipal Manager and the Chief Financial Officer of corruption. The agrrieved community is now also calling for the Mayor Mangaliso Matika's head. The protests started last week and since then nearly 200 people have been arrested for public violence and looting. They are appearing in court today. Our reporter in Kimberly Refilwe Mekoa is following the story.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that UDM leader, Bantu Holomisa should desist from making or repeating allegations of corruption at the Public Investment Corporation against a major BEE investment firm and prominent business figures. Holomisa, through an open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the scope of the state capture investigation to be widened to include alleged corruption at the PIC. Lebashe Investment Group, also cited by Holomisa for alleged corruption, has threatened to sue him for defamation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the UDM leader.
Conquering a famed summit is on many people's bucket lists. For some, it's all about the physical and mental challenge. For others, it's for personal reasons and causes. Gillian Pillay and Thabo Madilola, who are summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania again this weekend, have spoken to Mrs South Africa, Nicole Capper, about her trials and tribulations. Capper was airlifted from Mount Everest in Nepal about three months ago after having reached base camp in Kathmandu.
The largest radio telescope in the southern hemisphere has been launched in the Northern Cape today. The 4.4 billion telescope will enable scientists to have a clearer view and deeper understanding of the Milky Way Galaxies. This instrument will later form part of the Square Kilometre Array, which will be the largest scientific instrument ever. Deputy President David Mabuza says this will change the course of history.
Business leadership South Africa has dismissed claims by Viceroy Research that a damning report by Intellidex into short-selling in South Africa, was sponsored by a third party. Short selling is defined as the sale of an asset in the belief that the asset's price will decline. This enables it to be bought back at a lower price to make a profit. Viceroy has over the past year published negative reports on prominent South African companies, including Steinhoff and Capitec bank. BLSA CEO, Bonang Mohale says this is not an anti-short selling research project.
SA Express is readying itself for take-off. In its statement, the airline, says the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has reinstated its Aircraft Maintenance Organisation (AMO) certification. In May, the CAA announced the suspension of the company's operating licence. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SA express' Acting CEO Matsietsi Mokholo.
Kimberley in the Nothern Cape is still under under a tota shutdown this afternoon. Hundreds of residents from surrounding areas have taken to the streets again today to protest against alleged corruption on the part of the Sol Plaatjie Municipality's Chief Financial Officer and the Municipal Manager. They are accused of irregularly granting a 1.2 million rand tender to a PR company. Some people were stranded this morning and could not go to work. Our reporter Neo Bodumela is monitoring the situation in Galeshewe.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says meeting his Nigerian counterpart, Muhammadu Buhari, has opened up a new page of improved relations between the two countries. Frosty relations between South Africa and Nigeria have been blamed for lack of full implementation of more than 30 bilateral agreements signed between the two countries. President Ramaphosa undertook a one-day working trip to Abuja to rekindle relations dating back to the early 1960s when Nigeria supported liberation movements to end apartheid. Political Reporter Ntebo Mokobo elaborates.
Former president, Kgalema Motlanthe says those opposed to the expropriation of land without compensation are driven by their class interests. Montlanthe was speaking on our sister programme, Morning Live where he also addressed criticisms labelled against him and the recommendations made by the high-level panel on land reform. Meanwhile, IFP leader, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, also weighed in on the debate during an interview on the SAFM Sunrise breakfast show. This is what Montlanthe says on the issue...
Net1, which is the parent company of Cash Paymaster Services (CPS), has denied that it is doing all it can to ensure that it continues to benefit from the distribution of social grants. CEO Herman Kotze says they are in fact looking forward to cutting ties with SASSA in September this year, when the contract comes to an end. This was in response to statements made by the Inter-ministerial Committee on Social Security Services, during a media briefing earlier today. Communication Minister Nomvula Mokonyane has also revealed that legal action is being taken against some CPS employees for allegedly trying to persuade grant beneficiaries to continue using its services. She says the South African Post office has so far migrated more than one point eight million beneficiaries to the new gold SASSA card and plans to migrate all of them by the end of August.
There is a strong police presence in the Kimberley CBD as residents protest against two Sol Plaatjie Municipality employees. Chief Financial Officer Lydia Mahloko and Municipal Manager Goolam Akhawaray, are accused of paying a communications company 1.2 million rand for a campaign that was notifying residents that tariff hikes would be implemented this month. Violence broke out earlier and police fired rubber bullets. Our reporter Neo Bodumela is on the story.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has applauded the Nigerian government for consulting widely before signing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. Currently, 49 countries including South Africa have signed the agreement which seeks to allow the free movement of goods and people across the continent. It was adopted at the recent African Union Summit. This is seen as an important step to realise regional economic integration and increased intra-Africa trade. Ramaphosa says Nigeria joining other countries will help realise Africa's potential.
One of the founding members and minority shareholder of the VBS, Mr Madambi Muvhulawa say they are going to court to challenge what they call "A likely intention" to shut the mutual bank down. This after the South African Reserve Bank announced that it will prioritise the bank's retail depositors as the Venda-based mutual bank faces an uncertain future. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Madambi Muvhulawa.
One of the people injured in yesterday's plane crash at Kameeldrift outside Pretoria has died in hospital. This brings to two the number of deceased. The Civil Aviation Authority is in the meantime continuing with investigations into the crash. The passengers are said to be foreigners from Australia and the Netherlands. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Peter Mashaba who is Executive: Accident and Inident Investigations at the Civil Aviation Authority.
An SABC team which will take part in the Trek-4-Mandela Centenary Climb this weekend at Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, got a heart warming surprise when they received a R10 000 donation from Nedbank live on SAfm this afternoon. The money will help to buy sanitary pads for girls who have no financial means to do so. Hundreds of girls across the country miss school because they have no sanitary wear. SABC journalists Gillian Pillay and Thabo Madilola will be among the group known as "Kili Conquerers" who will again push the boundaries. Pillay has compiled the following report.
The General Council of the Bar which registers advocates in the country, is meeting this weekend in order to thoroughly consider yesterday's court ruling by the Supreme Court of Appeal. The court ruled that the suspended Deputy National Director of Public prosecutions Nomgcobo Jiba, and National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) specialised commercial crimes head Lawrence Mrwebi, not be struck of the roll of advocates. The ruling being overturned had been made by the Pretoria High Court in 2016. The Appeal Court has ruled that Mrwebi be suspended for only six months starting on Friday, while Jiba will not be struck off. The court said Mrwebi's misconduct relating to the court case of Richard Mdluli, did not justify the decision by the GCB. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the General Council of the Bar Advocate Vuyani Ngalwana SC.
Banks will no longer be able to throw their hands up in the air on the issue of illegal debit orders. Consumers have been up in arms over the years regarding deductions made from their accounts without authorisation. These transactions have been going undetected because banks only notify their clients if a payment of more than R100 is made. A new system known as DebiCheck will compel the banks to seek permission from their clients everytime a company wants to effect a debit order. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the CEO of the Payment Association of South Africa, Walter Volker.
Spend money on a humble meal or sanitary pads? That's the dilemma confronting many poverty-stricken homes in the country and on the continent. More often than not, the grumbling stomach wins. The SABC's Gillian Pillay and Thabo Madilola have been to the village of Luphisi in Mpumalanga to retrace the steps of the Trek4Mandela campaign that's changing young lives.
Thousands of men and some women have embarked on a 100 Men March to the Union Building in Pretoria, to raise awareness about violence against women and children. Several Ministers, representatives of SARS, the police, the Tshwane Metro Police, NGOs and government departments have taken part. The campaign seeks to get more men involved in the fight against this scourge. Here are some of the people who were there.
The Supreme Court of Appeal has dismissed the counter appeal by the General Council of the Bar of SA (GCB) and overturned a high court ruling that called for Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions Nomgcobo Jiba and Special Director of Public Prosecutions Lawrence Mrwebi to be struck off the roll of advocates. Jiba and Mrwebi were struck off the roll on September 15, 2016, by Judge Francis Legodi who agreed with the General Council of the Bar of SA that they were "not fit and proper" for their jobs. The ruling came after their decision to drop charges against former Crime Intelligence head Richard Mdluli, who was facing a number of charges, which included defrauding a secret slush fund. Here is Justice Connie Mocumie delivering the judgement.
Due to signal problems our listeners in some parts of the country were unable to listen to the show. So we have a podcast of the whole show for you.
Allegations continue to mount against one of South Africa's largest institutions for mentally and physically challenged people. Durban Coastal and Mental Health was earlier implicated in a rape case and claims of exploiting patients. It has now emerged that the mental institution uses some mental patients as security guards. Nonjabulo Mntungwa reports
North West MEC for Health, Dr. Magome Masike, says they are beginning to see some improvement since measures were put in place following national government's decision to place the department under administration. Masike briefed the media this morning. The province's health system was plagued by serious problems including allegations of corruption, a shortage of staff and equipment, poor service and a long NEHAWU strike that started in February. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MEC Masike.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says it does not foresee any problems in the next payment cycle. Grant beneficiaries stood in long queues this week as the agency experienced technical problems mostly at Post Office pay points. Frustrated beneficiaries had to be compensated with food parcels while they waited for their payments. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SASSA's Kgomotso Diseko.
Trade unions at power utility Eskom have rejected the company's revised offer of a 6.5% wage increase. The unions are currently in talks with the employer. The unions wants 9 percent. Eskom had initially offered a zero percent increase. NUMSA spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola gave us an update.
British police say a man and a woman found unconscious near Salisbury in the UK, where a former Russian spy and his daughter were attacked with a nerve agent in March, - were exposed to the same substance, known as Novichok. The couple are in a critical condition in the same hospital that treated the Russian pair and a huge police operation has now been launched to find the source of the nerve agent. Catherine Drew reports from London
The Board of Healthcare Funders has admitted that its members structure products in a way that does not afford consumers to make good comparisons of what is being offered. The organisation was speaking following revelations by the Competition Commission's Health Market Inquiry into private healthcare funding. The Commission released its provisional report during a media briefing in Sandton, Johannesburg this morning. There have been numerous complaints from consumers over the years that medical aid schemes are charging exorbitant fees making it difficult for some to access quality healthcare. Chairperson of the Inquiry Justice Sandile Ngcobo delivered the report.
The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa has thrown its weight behind the EFF on the land debate. Contralesa says they agree that Section 25 of the constitution, which deals with the right of property ownership, should be amended and that the government should be the custodian of expropriated land. This comes as Parliament's Constitutional Review Committee holds countrywide public hearings into the matter. However, King of Amazulu, Goodwill Zwelithini said yesterday that government should back off from the land issue. Contralesa made the announcement during a joint media briefing with the EFF in Braamfontein, Johannesburg today. Contralesa Secretary-General, Zolani Mkiva, addressed the media.
The Home Affairs office in Mangaung in Bloemfontein has been reopened following a cash in transit heist and a bomb scare. An undisclosed amount of cash was stolen at the Mangaung Municipality Metro in Bloemfontein. The police's bomb squad unit and forensic investigators are still on the scene to gather evidence. It is believed the robbery took place in the early hours of the morning. It was earlier reported that the robbers took security guards hostage. Our reporter following this story, Ishmael Modiba.
The Congress of South African Students (COSAS) says it wants learner transport to be subsidized. The student body held a media briefing at the Chief Albert Luthuli House to discuss challenges faced by learners in schools. These include sexual assault, violence and the pass rate. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to COSAS President General, John Macheke.
A new video has been released of the 12 boys and their football coach trapped in a Thai cave, in which they say they are in good health. Smiling and at times laughing, they each introduce themselves one by one. They were found on Monday after nine days trapped deep in the cave by rising water, and have since received food and medical treatment. But their rescue might take months, as they must either be taught to dive or wait for the water to recede. BBC's Lebo Diseko reports.
The ANC is calling for more coverage from the SABC, ahead of next year's general elections. This was part of the party's submission to the SABC's Commission of Inquiry into political interference at the public broadcaster, which kicked off this week. As the public broadcaster, the SABC has the largest broadcast footprint across the country. The ANC says it wants airtime to be allocated according to its share of the vote. Busi Chimombe reports.
The Minister of Communication Nomvula Mokonyane has announced in the government gazette the commencement of a process to review the public broadcasting policy. Members of the public and industry players have been invited to submit their written proposals on issues which will be considered during the process. Joining us on the line is the Minister's Spokesperson, Mlimandlela Ndamase
Grants beneficiaries in the Eastern Cape say they know nothing about government plans to give vouchers to those who have not been able to access their payments. Long queues have been forming at the Mthatha Post Office and at Port Saint John's. Hundreds of people are desperately trying to access their social grants after the new payments system failed. Most, including the elderly, woke up as early as 3 o'clock this morning in order to get their grants despite the freezing temperatures. Here is what some had to say...
A group of initiates have been rescued from three illegal initiation schools in the Sekhukhune and Mopani area in Limpopo. Its reported that more than 400 initiation schools are currently operating in the province since the start of the initiation season last month. Sakina Kamwendo mspoke to the Chairperson of the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders, Chief Malesela Dikgale.
The residents of Welkom in the Free State have started making submissions before Parliament's Constitutional Review Committee, which is holding public hearings on the expropriation of land without compensation. The Commercial farmers' union, Free State Agriculture maintained during its presentation yesterday, that the expropriation of land without compensation will plunge the country into an economic crisis. Our reporter Thabiso Radebe is there.
The Gauteng Sports Department's employee who called for the persecution of white people, Velaphi Khumalo wants the Equality Court to dismiss the case against him. Khumalo is arguing that he has already been punished for his comments on Facebook calling for Whites to be treated the same way Hitler treated the Jews. He said this after news of Penny Sparrow spread on social media. Khumalo was given a R30 thousand fine and a final written warning by the ANC. Our reporter following this story is Angela Bolowana.
Protesting drivers of hailing taxi services Uber and Taxify say the managers of Uber are refusing to come out and accept their memorandum and instead want only two representatives of the strikers to come into the building in Sandton north of Johannesburg to hand over the document. The drivers gathered at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg this morning to demand better working conditions. They've allegedly been stopping their non-striking colleagues at Zoo Lake, Gautrain stations and at OR Tambo Airport, forcing them to join the protest. The spokesperson for the General Task Team Coordinating the strike, Vhatuka Mbelengwa gave us more details on the strike.
The office of the Auditor-General will hold a media conference on Thursday on the audit outcomes of municipalities in the Limpopo province. Most municipalities in the province lack capacity to provide services and to manage funds. Some of them battle to pay salaries. A number of them have been found to have violated the Municipal Public Finance Act by investing hundreds of millions rand in VBS mutual Bank which has been placed under curatorship. Our reporter in Limpopo, Rudzani Tshivhase is following the story.
Heavy rains and snow have continued to fall over the Western Cape with some places, like Grabouw in the Overberg, getting up to 60 millimetres of rain. Heavy downpours and gale force winds have resulted in flash flooding across large parts of the Cape Peninsula. Meanwhile a number of passes run the risk of being closed due to the extreme weather conditions. Meteorologist, Siphesihle Kunene gave us an update.
The legal representatives of independent candidates in the former Tlokwe local municipality in Potchefstroom in the North West, have filed opposing papers in the Constitutional Court against the Independent Electoral Commission. The IEC has applied for the extension of the court's suspension order that declared the commission's failure to maintain the voters' roll constitutional. The order relates to the IEC ensuring that it has the residential addresses of all those who are on the voters' roll. If the IEC's application succeeds, it will pave the way for the 2019 general elections. Mpho Lepedi
The DA in Gauteng is picketing outside what it calls the "Gauteng Nkandla", which is the multimillion rand home of ANC Gauteng Chief Whip Brian Hlongwa, in Bryanston north of Johannesburg. The house, which was bought for seven million rand, was allegedly acquired with the financial assistance of companies and individuals who benefitted from corrupt activities with the Gauteng Health Department, when Hlongwa was still MEC between 2006 and 2009. Last week, Hlongwa survived a motion by the EFF and DA in the legislature for him to step down. Our reporter Horisani Sithole was at that picket.
Disgruntled ANC members who successfully interdicted the KwaZulu-Natal election conference last month, are back in the Pietermaritburg high court today. On the court papers the respondents are the ANC mother-body and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Task Team. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is on the story.
The Departmemt of Energy has confirmed the upcoming fuel increases of 23 cents a litre for 95 Octane petrol and 26 cents a litre for 93 Octane petrol. Gas will increase by 37 cents a litre while illuminating paraffin will see an increase of 22 centre a litre. This as some motorists are reported to have heeded the call by People Against Petrol and Paraffin Price Increase, PAPPI, to bring busy roads across the country to a standstill in protest against the increases. The organisation called on motorists to switch off the engines of their vehicles for 10 minutes between seven and eight o'clock this morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Convenor of PAPPI Visvin Reddy
Temperatures in the SARS inquiry were simmering as commissioner judge Robert Nugent broke down Advocate Dali Mpofu's presentation at the commission. Mpofu, representing suspended SARS commissioner, Tom Moyane led today's proceedings by calling for the inquiry to be suspended on the basis that it is biased and unfair towards his client.
The Snow Report has predicted that a major cold front‚on July 1‚ is "likely to bring a blanket of snow" across the country. Snow report says by Sunday night‚ some snow is expected to fall over the peaks of the majority of Cape mountains. The SA Weather Service has also issued a warning about the snowy conditions.
Some Swazis have distanced themselves from the 1st ever gay pride celebrations taking place this weekend in the Capital of Mbabane. An event of such scale and nature has never been held in the Kingdom of eSwatini, and If all goes to plan, the 30th of June 2018 may be a date to remember in Eswatini's history.
The Rock of Hope, a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex organisation could make history by hosting Eswatini's first LGBTI Pride celebrations in Mbabane this weekend; Saturday 30t). An event of such magnitude has never been held in the Kingdom of Eswatini. The history-making event will coincide with other Pride marches worldwide this month. Molebogeng Sebidi spoke Communications & Advocacy Officer, Melusi Simelane, ahead of the event
Thousands of artists and visitors are flocking to the 44th National Arts Festival which has officially opened its doors in Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape. Festival goers will certainly be spoilt for choice as organisers have arranged a line-up of 2400 performances covering artistic performances including theatre, poetry readings, comedy to jazz and classical music. The festival is also an economic booster as it contributes R94 million to the economy of the City of Saints and much more to the economy of the province. The festival's CEO, Tony Lankester spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Long queues and prolonged waiting at Home Affairs offices will soon be a thing of the past. Home Affairs, minister Malusi Gigaba has met all senior managers across the country to come up with solutions. Never-ending queues, constant crashing of the online system have been plagueing the department. Minister Gigaba's spokesperson Mayihlome Tshwete provided more information on the meeting.
The investigation into the controversial appointment of Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga's former chief of staff Marietha Aucamp, has found that her appointment was irregular. Aucamp resigned from her job in May after it emerged that she lied about her qualifications. City Manager Moeketsi Mosola released the findings which cleared Mayor Solly Msimanga of any wrongdoing saying it's clear that the human resources department did not follow correct procedures. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Selby Bokaba who speaks on behalf of the City of Tshwane. .
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that the decision to classify the controversial film, Inxeba - The wound, as X18, be set aside because the movie is not hardcore porn. Judge Joseph Railinga found that the Film and Publications Appeals Tribunal flagrantly disregarded the rules of PAJA - an Act of Parliament that states that both parties must have a fair opportunity to make representations to a tribunal. He said the Man and Boy Foundation had no grounds to appeal the initial classification of 16 and that the appeals tribunal had no jurisdiction to hear the appeal and therefore set the decision aside. Our reporterLiela Magnus was in court.
More witnesses at the SARS Commission of Inquiry have told of how they worked in fear and under intimidation, after Tom Moyane took over as the revenue collector's Commissioner in 2014. Some say they were marginalised because they were seen as being aligned to Moyane's predecessor Pravin Gordhan. Moyane suspended eight senior executives shortly after taking over, following revelations by a KMPG that a so-called rogue unit had been operating illegally. That report has since been discredited. President Cyril Ramaphosa established the inquiry this year to probe administrative and governance issues at SARS. Former head of Tax and Customs Enforcement Gene Ravele has told the commission that the unit was legal but that some divisions were closed down.
The Eastern Cape Roads and Transport department has vowed to uncover the cause of the delay in the completion of a 224 million rand road construction project, between Coffee Bay and Hole in the Wall at Mqanduli. Motorists complain that they are forced to pay thousands of rands evey year as their tyres wear out quicker, due to the pothole-ridden 26 kilometres stretch of road. Nkululeko Nyembezi visited the Wild Coast villages and filed this report.
Various unions have called for the Sibanye-Stillwater Mine in Drefontein to be shut down. This follows the death of yet another mine worker yesterday. According to mine management the mine worker died after he entered a scraper path and was caught by the scraper. Two weeks ago, Five mine workers died at Sibanye's Kloof Ikamva Mine near Westonaria, making that incident the seventh tragedy at a Sibanye operations since the start of this year. Management says investigations into the latest incident are underway. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sibanye-Stillwater's James Wellsted.
The City of Johannesburg has warned it's running out of space for rubbish and it risks hitting an ultimate disaster point in six years if nothing is done. The city is concerned that if drastic measures are not taken, household refuse will have to be transported by train to a landfill site in Mpumalanga and ratepayers will have to shoulder the costs. From July 1st, Joburg residents will be compelled to separate garbage from recyclable material. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Muzi Mkhwanazi from the City of Johannesburg.
The DA says it will be appealing the judgement handed down at the High Court in Cape Town, which ruled in favour of Mayor Patricia de Lille in her application to have the DA's decision to strip her of her membership and remove her as Mayor, set aside. The court found that the DA's Federal Legal Council acted illegaly, according to the party's own constitution, because the FLC, the legal body within the DA that terminated her membership, was improperly constituted. DA Federal Executive Deputy Chairperson, Natasha Mazzone, says they are appealing because they feel the court misinterpreted the rules of the FLC in the party's constitution
Now during the World Cup the likes of Sadio Mane, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi might be grabbing your attention, but a new team has arrived in Moscow, keen to show that football is for everyone. And their team line up might just surprise you, as SABC's Dan Ashby found out.
As we commemorate youth month, this afternoon we feature 31-year-old Munene Khoza, who wants to lead the pack of strategic communicators across all industries in South Africa. This feisty and creative young woman has used her love for languages to start her own communications consultancy company, which already plays in the space of established agencies. Our Executive Producer, Krivani Pillay, caught up with Munene to chat about her growing business and the importance of entrepreneurship…
European Union leaders are reportedlly preparing to take more steps to keep migrants out of their countries. According to the reports, talks planned for the next week, EU leaders will affirm their intention to stop migrants leaving north African shores by paying countries like Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia to hold people until their eligibility for asylum can be established. This comes after yet another boat carrying an estimated 200 migrants was turned away by Italy with its interior minister, Matteo Salvini saying "they will only see Italy on the map". Last Sunday, Italy once again turned away another boat (The Aquarius boat) operated by the aid groups SOS Mediterranee Sea and Doctors Without Borders. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr David Beversluis, an MSF doctor who was on board the Aquarius and took care of health needs of more than 600 migrants on the boat.
Three initiates have died at Libode in the Eastern Cape - a week after the official opening of the winter initiation season. The initiates were allegedly underage and were at an illegal initiation school, known as 'amabhuma'. Libode is one of the areas that is known to have illegal initiations schools and where initiates die in numbers. Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance spokesperson Mamkeli Ngam says the three victims died at Jamani, Mhlakulo and Mthombe villages. Our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi is on that story.
This weekend's ANC provincial conference may not go ahead. A group of the party's members are seeking an urgent court interdict that will prevent the conference from taking place. The complainants argue that processes as stipulated by the ANC's Constitution, were not followed. Yesterday the party's Secretary-General Ace Magashule told the media during a press briefing that it was all systems go after the party engaged the aggrieved members. Our reporter Jabulani Baloyi is following the story.
The new premier of North West province, Professor Job Mokgoro, has committed him to getting rid of the province's ills. The 70-year old Mokgoro has been sworn in as a member of the provincial legislature and elected premier of the province. He succeeds Supra Mahumapelo, who resigned last month following violent protests in the province.
What will South African society look like in 2030? Will we have moved towards a cohesive nation or will existing fault lines grow into wider chasms? This is the questions that is currently being discussed by various thought leaders including President Cyril Ramaphosa. For the past year a diverse group of researchers, thought leaders and representatives from all spheres of society participated in the Indlulamithi South Africa Scenarios 2030 project. This multi-stakeholder initiative comprised Dr Somadoda Fikeni, Febe Potgieter-Gqubule, Pali Lehohla, amongst others. Along with a group of young people from different socio-economic backgrounds and geographical regions, the Indlulamithi team investigated issues relating to social cohesion in South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vuma Ngcobo who is one of the steering committee members of the Indlulamithi SA Scenarios 2030.
Constitutional Court Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng has ruled that political parties are obliged to disclose to the public who their funders are. The "My Vote Counts" organisation initially approached the Western Cape high court in Cape Town on the basis that certain provisions of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) should be declared constitutionally invalid. Chief Justice Mogoeng also ruled that Parliament must amend PAIA.
The police are investigating a case of attempted murder after the son of a Durban petrol station owner allegedly poured petrol on an employee and set her alight, causing severe burn wounds. The 31-year old woman, who is the breadwinner in her family, has not been able to return to work due to the injuries she sustained a month ago. Fanele Mhlongo reports.
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is today expected to unveil far-reaching proposals aimed at bringing about universal health coverage in the country. Motsoaledi is set to spell out details of the National Health Insurance Bill and the Medical Schemes Amendment Bill at a media briefing in Pretoria. On the back drop of that, A group of general practitioners tasked with overseeing the National Health Insurance Pilot project at the Vhembe district in Limpopo, say the pilot phase has collapsed. This follows the termination of their contracts for the first phase of the NHI project. MEC of Health Phophi Ramathuba says the general practitioners were employed by the national Health Department and the Foundation for Professional Development, which no longer has funds for their program. She says the NHI project has not collapsed. Katlego Nyoni compiled this report.
The ANC has confirmed Professor Job Mokgoro as the new premier of the North West rovince. This comes after a special NEC meeting as well as an NWC meeting this past week. Supra Mahumapelo resigned from the position last month. 70-year old Mokgoro was the North West Director-General. ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule made the announcement.
Today marks World Refugee Day. The United Nations says more than 60 million people have been forced to leave their countries due to war, fear of persecution and natural disasters. The UN says those displaced are mostly from poor countries. It has urged people of the world to treat refugees with compassion. My colleague Anita Visser spoke to Darius Kwigomba from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who now has official refugee status. He came to South Africa in the year 2000.
A website and a Facebook page have been launched to assist former mine workers and their dependents who may be entitled to compensation if they worked at one of the six gold mining companies that have made provisions for a trust to pay workers who contracted silicosis and/ or TB at work. The historic settlement was made last month after 3 years of extensive negotiations. The gold mine companies in question are; African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American, Anglo Gold Ashanti , Gold Fields Harmony and Sibanye -stillwater. Richard Spoor, who is one of the attorney's representing the affected former mine workers, spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Service delivery protests have spilled over to neighbouring areas of Thembalethu in George (in the Southern Cape). Residents of Lawaaikamp, Borcherds and Parkdene have joined in on the action, and are being kept at bay by police. Earlier, two trucks were set alight and looted on the N2 between the Garden Route Mall and Pacaltsdorp. The road remains closed to traffic. Our reporter in Cape Town, Tanya Krause is on the story.
The embattled South African Weather Services has failed to appear before the Environmental Committee to explain the appointment of Julia Mphafudi as Executive of Corporate and Regulatory Services. This follows an anonymous tip-off about alleged irregulaties. 18 months ago former CEO Linda Makuleni was fired, leaving behind allegations of corruption and tender fraud in the organisation. Our parliamentary correspondent Zalene Merrington is following the story.
Fears that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission will not be able to run free and fair elections next month are mounting. Candidates who should have received the voters' roll allegedly still don't have access to it. The country's Electoral Commission says it is facing administrative challenges in availing it to candidates as required by law. But it says the election will go ahead despite any grievances parties may have.
Eastern Cape ANC chairman Oscar Mabuyane has dismissed the Sbu Ndebele Report as flawed. In the report, Ndebele, calls for the party to set aside the outcome of the conference. The report was the subject of a hearing at the South Gauteng High Court yesterday. Mabuyane says only a court of law will decide on what is right.
The Information Regulator SA has requested an urgent meeting with Liberty Holdings CEO David Munro, to understand how its data became compromised. The company's system was hacked and those responsible are demanding a ransom. The regulator has requested information about the extent and contents of the data breach, as well as the interim measures put in place to prevent further breaches. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the South African Information Regulator, Advocate Pansy Tlakula.
Workers at airline SA Express may not get paid come month end. Trade union Fedusa is calling on government to intervene and provide funding to the state-owned entity. The company was grounded last month after failing to comply with safety regulations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SA Express spokesperson Refilwe Masemola and asked if the c ompany had issued notices to workers about the possibility that they may not receive their salaries.
Queues are getting longer at VBS Mutual Bank in Thohoyandou in Limpopo as clients withdraw their money and close their accounts. The mutual bank was placed under curatorship by the SA Reserve Bank in March following reports that it was facing a liquidity crisis. This after Treasury instructed municipalities to stop investing with the bank. A number of councils withdrew more than R1 billion from the bank since the order issued was last year. The bank first rose to prominence when it loaned former president Jacob Zuma R7.8 million in 2016 to repay state money improperly spent on his private home. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere is at bank.
The ANC's National Executive Committee is meeting today at the St Georges Hotel in Irene outside Pretoria to discuss burning issues plaguing the ruling party. Top of the agenda will be issues around North West, Kwa-Zulu Natal, Free State and Gauteng's upcoming elective conference. Meanwhile, the Johannesburg High Court is expected to hear a case by four ANC members from Eastern Cape who want to compel the NEC to take a clear stand about a report that called for last year's Provincial Conference to be nullified. Their lawyer, Wikus Van Rensburg spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
A KwaZulu-Natal minority rights group is considering opening a case against EFF leader Julius Malema for his statement that Indians are racist. Malema was speaking during his party's Youth Day commemoration event in Klerksdorp in the North West Province this past weekend. Chairperson of the South African Minority Rights Equality Movement (samrem), Daleep Lutchman, says they will be meeting soon to decide what charges to press against Malema for what they say is his use of an apartheid system of classifying people by race. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Police are combing the scene of a cash-in-transit-heist on Jakes Gerwel Drive near Philippi on the Cape Flats. Two G4S cash vans have been targeted in the latest heist on the corner of Weltreveden and Turfhall Roads in Cape Town. The road has been closed where a large police presence is visible. More than 150 cash-in-transit heists have taken place this year. National Police Commissioner Kehla Sitole last week briefed Parliament on a five-point plan to deal with the issue. Our reporter Mlamli Maneli is on Jakes Gerwel Drive
Power utility Eskom says wage talks with trade unions will resume tomorrow. The company had told unions that it could not afford to increase the income of workers at all because it is cash strapped. But now it has changed its tune after a meeting with trade unions Numsa, NUM and Solidarity, which Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan facilitated on Friday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom's Khulu Phasiwe.
Although Bafana Bafana did not qualify for this world tournament; a few South Africans are there anyway having the time of their life. The 2018 World Cup kicked off yesterday with Russia launching the World Cup by thrashing Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the tournament's opening match. This has been called the best world cup opening game. Fhatuwani Mpfuni from Johannesburg is currently in Russia with friends and he spoke to Elvis Presslin.
Tempers have flared during the cross examination of former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng at the CCMA where he is challenging his dismissal. Motsoeneng told the SABC's legal representative Anton Myburg SC, that he does not like his attitude towards him. The hearing had to be adjourned briefly to allow the parties to calm down. Earlier Motsoeneng questioned the reasons for his dismissal, saying he thinks there was a sinister motive for the action against him. Our reporter Angela Bolowana is attending the hearing.
Police have been combing a crime scene for clues following the killing of two people at a mosque in Malmesbury, Cape Town, during the early hours of this morning. Police were called out to a local mosque and found two people stabbed to death and several injured. The suspect, armed with a knife, was still on the scene. He charged at the police who tried to persuade him to hand himself over. They then shot and killed him when he failed to cooperate with them. Our reporter Carmel Roberts is on this story.
Disgruntled workers belonging to the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and the National Union of Metalworkers (Numsa) are today picketing at Eskom's Sunninghill head offices in Johannesburg. Wage negotiations between the financially distressed power utility and labour unions deadlocked resulting in the rolling out of mass action by the NUM and Numsa. Eskom's spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe tweeted this morning that the power supply to Eskom's head office in Suninghill had "mysteriously" been cut off. Our economics reporter Naledi Ngcobo is following the story.
The suspended SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane's lawyers are preparing for legal battle against President Cyril Ramaphosa. This after Ramaphosa failed to meet yet another deadline to submit an affidavit detailing disciplinary charges against Moyane. President Ramaphosa's lawyers undertook to submit his affidavit substantiating the allegations of misconduct against Moyane by June 8th but failed to meet the deadline. The second one on was Wednesday at five o'clock and the third one at twelve midnight. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Moyane's Lawyer, Eric Mabuza.
Former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng says claims that local content programmes don't generate revenue are false. During his time as COO- Motsoeneng implemented the controversial 90% local content quota on all SABC platforms. He says the SABC is now in financial difficulties because he's no longer at the public broadcaster. Motsoeneng has been testifying at the CCMA in Johannesburg where he's challenging his dismissal from the SABC. Our reporter Angela Bolowana was there.
The South African Police Service has been briefing Parliament's Portfolio committee on Police, on plans to curb cash in transit heists. According to the South African Banking Risk Information Centre, cash in transits heists have risen in the 1st quater of 2018 compared to last year. There has been a series of such robberies in recent weeks in some parts of the country.
It's now almost a year since a group of about 70 families who were evicted from an inhabitable building in Johannesburg, has been living in tents at Wembley Sports Stadium. The City of Johannesburg had reportedly promised them that they will be moved into new housing structures by Friday last week. The owners of the building filed for an eviction order on the basis that the residents were occupying the building unlawfully and that it was not safe for occupation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to The City of Johannesburg's Acting Director of Housing Thabo Maisela.
The man responsible for blowing the lid on the alleged reasons behind the assassination of Sindiso Magaqa, has lashed out at the KwaZulu-Natal Premier and the Moerane Commission of Inquiry. Thabiso Zulu says the KZN provincial government is playing with their lives. Zulu says he and others are still not getting the protection they were promised for testifying at the Moerane Commission.
Members of Parliament have told Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane that they feel she direspected them when she missed last week's meeting. Mkhwebane sent a letter of apology to Parliament a day before she was due to appear before the MPs, citing a family emergency. MPs tried to probe about the nature of the emergency and the details contained in the letter, however, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice Mathole Motshekga said he would make the letter available at a later stage. Mkhwebane has since apologised for her absence.
Over a million football fans are expected in Russia for the Fifa World Cup. The opening ceremony will be held in Moscow tomorrow at about half-past-four South African time. In preparation for all those visitors and the beautiful game, the Russians have been practising how to smile. That's because smiling doesn't come naturally to them. It's a cultural thing, reports the BBC's Moscow correspondent, Steve Rosenberg.
A local Rate Payers' association in Koster has been granted permission to take control of the municipality's water and refuse systems "for as long as necessary". The landmark ruling puts control of key services in the hands of its citizens. Koster, together with the neighbouring towns of Derby and Swartruggens, is part of the Kgetlengrivier municipality in the North West, a province that is under administration. The interdict is the second granted to residents within a month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kobus Snyman of the Koster, Derby and Swartruggens tax payer's association.
The UDM leadership in the Eastern Cape has set up a team to investigate corruption and gate keeping in the party. This after the national leadership halted the regional elective conference of the OR Tambo this weekend. The leadership has established that some branch members were paid to vote for particular candidates and that party processes were not followed during branch meetings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the UDM's Eastern Cape provincial spokesperson Mabandla Gogo.
Former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng wants his job back as Group Corporate Affairs executive. This emerged at his CCMA hearing in Joburg where he is challenging the SABC's decision to remove him from his position as Chief Operations Officer. SABC board member Krish Naidoo has told the hearing that Motsoeneng has no place at the public broadcaster in either capacity because the COO position has been filled and the Corporate Affairs position was made redundant by the courts. Angela Bolowana is following the story.
US President Donald Trump and the North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, have signed a joint agreement after their unprecedented talks in Singapore. While briefing the media, Trump said the process of full denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula will begin 'very soon' but that the sanctions will remain.
A specialised task team from the Hawks have raided the offices of the Bank of Baroda in Johannesburg and Durban. This follows several allegations of money laundering and corruption against the Bank. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Hawks' Hangwani Mulaudzi.
It's reported that struggling state airline SAA is splurging millions on executives and consulting firms in a spending frenzy that has been described as "worrying". According to these reports, SAA''s recently appointed Chief Executive, Vuyani Jarana, said the increased expenditure is necessary to address a severe skills shortage. Its also reported that, just last week, SAA received yet another R5-billion bailout from the treasury. SAA CEO, Vuyanin Jarana has responded to these allegations.
The Vhembe district in Limpopo is experiencing a high rate of physical and sexual abuse of children. About 200 physical and sexual child abuse cases have been reported in this district alone since the beginning of the year. The Thohoyandou Victim Empowerment Programme says 60% of those affected are children under the age of 13. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of the programme Tshilidzi Masikhwa.
South Africa is preparing to join the United Nations world body for peace and security for the third time in just over a decade. It's expected to be voted onto the UN Security Council today. It would become one of five countries to win a non-permanent seat on the 15 member Council. But South Africa, a long-time campaigner for UN reform, is asking for more than just another two year term. Nick Harper reports from New York.
Former president Jacob Zuma has once again warned his detractors against portraying themselves as 'innocent' while labelling him 'guilty of corruption'. Zuma addressed a group of his supporters outside the Durban High Court where they came out in their numbers after holding a night vigil at Albert Park in Durban. His fraud and corruption case has now been postponed to the 27th of July at the Pietermaritzburg High Court.
Patients reliant on cancer and heart medication may struggle to get the treatment they need after the Pelindaba nuclear facility halted production this week. This after abnormally-high level on hydrogen gas were detected at the facility last week forcing production to be halted. Pelindaba is a key producer of molybdenum-99 (known as "Molly"). This radiochemical is essential for helping patients with heart problems or cancer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Necsa's Group CEO and Nuclear Physist Phumzile Tshelane.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has withdrawn its corruption and fraud case against former acting National Police Commissioner, General Khomotso Phahlane and his co-accused at the Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria. The charges relates to Phahlane and his wife allegedly accepting cars from a car dealer as a form of gratuity. Our reporter Phanuel Shuma was in court.
Triple axe murderer Henri van Breda says he will appeal his three life sentences and an additional 15 years for attempted murder. He was found guilty of the murder of his father, mother, brother and the attempted murder of his sister at the De Zalze Estate in Stellenbosch in 2015. Van Breda was also sentenced to 12 months for obstructing the course of justice. Judge Siraj Desai handed down the sentence at the High Court in Cape Town.
Another court challenge is looming ahead of the upcoming KZN Provincial Elective conference this weekend. A group of disgruntled ANC members from the Moses Mabida Region, has briefed the media this morning, where it raised concerns regarding the alleged flouting of ANC processes during their Branch General Meeting. The group's representative, Msizi Ngcobo spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
The competition Commision is today holding public hearings to determine the competitiveness of the transport industry. The commission says it has reason to believe that there features in the sector that may prevent, distort or restrict competition. Several transport organisations and unions are expected to make submissions. The Competition Commission's Sipho Ngwema spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Transport Minister Blade Nzimande faced tough questions from Members of Parliament when he appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Transport this morning. He was tabling the PRASA 2016/17 Annual Report. PRASA is being plaqued by problems. Chief amongst those is corruption, irregular expenditure and the running of trains which sees many commuters waiting for hours. An interim board was appointed last month. Our reporter Lulama Matya was in Parliament.
The Polokwane High Court has granted leave to appeal in the Michael Komape civil case, in respect of the R2 million claim for constitutional damages. Last month the court ruled against the family's claim for general and constitutional damages for the death of their son, who drowned in a pit latrine in 2014. Judge Gerrit Muller instead ordered that two of Komape's siblings be paid R6 000 each for general medical expenses. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere was in court.
The health care system continues to spiral out of control as more evidence of human rights abuses continue to surface. The latest incident was uncovered at Tower Hospital in Fort Beaufort in the Eastern Cape. An investigations by the South African Society of Psychiatrists has found instances of human rights violations. President of SASOP, Professor Bernard Janse van Rensburg says upon visiting the hospital, together with the SA Federation of Mental Health and NGO, Section 27, they found instances of abuse of patients rights and failure to uphold the constitution in the treatment of mental health patients.
It's emerged that convicted murderer Henri van Breda sustained minor injuries in a scuffle with another inmate at Cape Town's Pollsmoor prison. He suffered scratches and bruises and injured his foot. This was revealed during sentencing procedures underway in the High Court in Cape Town in the trial of the axe murderer. Both the defence and State denied reports that he tried to commit suicide. Twenty three year old Van Breda has been found guilty of the murder of his father, mother and older brother at their Stellenbosch home in May 2015. Our reporter Bereniece Moss is in court.
Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle has assigned education MEC Mandla Makupula to investigate how members of a school choir were allowed to sing on stage naked when the department hosted an eisteddfod in Mthatha on Friday. A video showing choristers singing and dancing with their buttocks and breasts exposed has sparked a public outcry. The nudity occurred during a segment referencing a Xhosa tradition. The choir master was quoted as saying they stood by their decision for some of the lead singers to take off their traditional blankets and dance with only small aprons. The Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Education MEC, Malibongwe Mtima gave us the latest on the matter.
The case against the man allegedly involved in the hijacking incident which left 9-year-old Sadia Shukraj from Chatsworth outside Durban, killed, has been postponed until tomorrow. 39-year old Sibonelo Mkhize appeared in the Durban magistrate's court today. Our reporter Nhlanhla Nxele was in court.
Zimbabwe's Constitutional Court has ruled that citizens who are not in that country on 30 July 2018 will not be able to vote. The election date was announced by President Emmerson Mgangagwa today. This will be the first election since the ousting of former President Robert Mugabe. Around five-and-a-half million Zimbabweans are registered to vote. Our Acting Political Editor, Sophie Mokoena gave us an update
The girl who was kidnapped from the Siyabuswa Primary School in Mpumalanga yesterday, has been found. It's alleged that she was abducted by two men whom she knows. She is currently in police custody after being dropped at a police station by a taxi driver. This is a third kidnapping incident this month. Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Leonard Hlathi gave us the latest.
Today marks Africa Day. It is the day on which the Organisation for African Unity was formed in 1963 in Ethiopia. The organisation aimed to bring Africans together and to develop the continent and it's people after hundreds of years of colonization and oppression. It also sought to help liberate other countroies who were still under the control of colonisers. We spoke to Senior Research Fellow and Political Economist at Trade Collective Lebohang Pheko about being an African.
Convicted ANC councillor Andile Lungisa has been granted ten thousand rand bail, by the Port Elizabeth Magistrates court, pending his petition to the Judge President at the Grahamstown High Court. Lungisa was sentenced to three years imprisonment, of which one year was suspended. His defence has filed a petition to the Judge President on both his conviction and sentence. Olwethu Matsipane reports.
Labour Federation, COSATU says it will take to the streets to oppose the power purchase agreements (PPAs) that government has signed with 27 independent power producers (IPPs). The Federation, says government misled South Africans by saying the procurement would lead to the creation of 58,000 jobs. We spoke to COSATU President Sdumo Dlamini.
Workers and councillors at the Modimolle Mookgopong Municipality in Limpopo have not been paid their salaries. They received text messages on Yesterday, informing them that they will be paid by next week Friday. This is the third time workers have not been not paid since the DA and EFF took over the running of the municipality in a coalition in 2016. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere is on the story.
Tensions continue to simmer at Thubelisha township in Welkom in the Free State. This follows the killing of a 22-year old gang member belonging to the IJP at the weekend. Two gang groups clashed following the incident. This also disrupted teaching and learning in some schools in Thabong. Ishmael Modiba is following the story.
Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga has delivered his budget speech today in the city. This comes a day after the Auditor-General revealed that the Metro was third on a list of municipalities who incurred irregular expenditure in the 2016/2017 financial year. Mayor Msimanga says plans are afoot to address this challenge. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances leading to the deaths of the three people in the cave system on a small holding near Vlakplaas on Schurveberg road, west of Pretoria. The bodies of the two men were found on Tuesday whilst another was discovered yesterday. Police spokesperson, Augustinah Selepe spoke to our presenter Sakina Kamwendo about the latest.
The National Union of Mineworkers says its concerned by Anglo Gold Ashanti's announcement that at least two thousand jobs are now on the line. The gold mining company is warning retrenchments may be necessary as it plans to restructure operations. For more on this we are joined on the line by NUM Deputy President, Joseph Montisetse
Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan, has confirmed Phakamani Hadebe's permanent appointment as Eskom CEO. Minister Gordhan was briefing the media on changes at the boards of state-owned enterprises in Cape Town. Gordhan said Hadebe's experience at National Treasury made him a favourable candidate
Judge Bert Bam has sentenced the biological mother and stepfather of Poppie van der Merwe to life in prison at the Pretoria High Court. Louisa Koekemoer, Poppie's biological mother, and Kobus Koekemoer, her stepfather, were found guilty of murdering Poppie and abusing a 5-year-old boy back in October 2016. The pair have also been sentenced to 10 years on top of the life sentence for abusing the 5-year-old child. Louisa's lawyer Adrian Nell has asked Judge Bam that Louisa Koekemoer not be sent to prison for life, but the request was denied by Bam. Our reporter Liela Magnus was at the Pretoria High court.
Four taxi owners have been killed following a shooting in the Brakpan CBD East of Johannesburg this morning. They were allegedly shot by the occupants of a private security vehicle. Police say the taxi owners had just finished meeting in Tsakane and were on their way to a taxi association office when they were attacked. Police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo gave us the latest information on these murders.
North West Premier, Supra Mahumapelo, says he has decided to take early retirement amid allegations of widespread corruption in the province. Mahumapelo made the announcement at the ANC's headquarters, Luthuli House, in Johannesburg earlier today. The North West was rocked by violent protests recently with a faction of the ANC and community members calling for his resignation. Mahumapelo has outlined what he claims was long term issues of corruption in the province that preceded his administration. He also says he does not want to be accused of cracking down on counter-revolutionaries.
Social media is in a frenzy in attempting to assist rescue and help save two lives. This follows the kidnapping of a heavily pregnant woman last week in Voslorus in the East Rand. Police have confirmed that 24-year old Mbali Jiyane was reported missing by her family last week Friday. Her capturers have since sent the family a picture which has been widely shared on social media where she is in tears and her mouth tied with what appears to be a cloth. Police spokesperson at the Voslorus police station, Piet Rossouw gave an update on their investigation.
Health Workers in the north-west of the DRC are being vaccinated today, following an Ebola outbreak which has claimed 25 lives so far. Ebola causes internal bleeding and is spread quickly through bodily fluids and initially presents itself as flu. More than 11 000 people died from the disease between 2014 and 2016 in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia before it was contained. The BBC's Rebecca Kesby gave us the latest.
Parliament has described the incident that occurred during a Supersport television broadcast which involved former Springbok winger, Ashwin Willemse and rugby panelists Naas Botha and Nick Mallet as unfortunate and has called for a speedy resolution. Willemse walked off a live broadcast after expressing disdain for what he descibed as being "patronised by two individuals who played in an apartheid/segregated era". Chairperson of the committee, Beauty Dlulane says the incident has invoked much emotion and calls for investigations into the parties involved to be given space as opinions about the matter lack details. We broadcast the clip of what transpired during a live Supersport television broadcast and also spoke to former Springbok player, sports commentator and author of "Being A Black Springbok", Thando Manana.
Judge Seraj Desai of the Cape High Court, is still delivering judgment in the case of triple murder accused Henri Van Breda. Earlier the judge said it is highly unlikely that an intruder would have been able to enter the De Zalze Estate just outside Stellebosch, where Van Breda's family was hacked to death in January 2015. Only the accused and his sister Marli, survived the attack but she could not testify as she had not regained her memory fully during the trial. She sustained serious head injuries. Security personnel testified that there was no evidence at all that an intruder had been in the property. Judge Desai says the defence was unable to prove that someone had broken into the Van Breda home.
The ANC says it has decided not to amend or change section 25 of the Constitution. The party says it will instead use it in its current form to test the argument that it allows expropriation without compensation. ANC NEC member Ronald Lamola was addressing the media following the party's Land Summit over the weekend.
The son of South Africa's number Andile Ramaphosa will be marrying soon. A delegation is expected to descend on Ghana this afternoon for wedding negotiations with the family of Bridget Rwakairu who is former Ugandan prime minister and presidential candidate Amama Mbabazi's niece.
The Minister of State Security Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba says her department is working on giving more support to the Inspector-General and to do away with any grey areas that make it difficult for him to do his job. She was speaking during a media briefing in Cape Town today following her budget vote. The department has been dogged by many scandals which included a court battle between the Inspector-General and and the former Director-General Arthur Fraser who has since been transferred to the Correctional Services Ministry.
The ANC's Free State elective conference, which is due to start this weekend, remains under threat as a faction of the party seeks to take legal action over credentials of delegates. Provincial Task Team coordinator, William Bulwane has vowed that the conference will go ahead despite attempts by a disgruntled faction to stop it from happening. The faction contesting the legitimacy of the conference says branch delegates need to be audited before the conference commences. Our presenter Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gregory Nthakisi.
Higher Education Minister, Naledi Pandor and her deputy, Buti Manamela, have embarked on a career advice and guidance campaign at the train and bus terminus in Cape Town ahead of the department's budget vote in Parliament. They're also distributing education material on how to access the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Pandor has also encouraged students to apply on time for placings at tertiary institutions for next year. Chris Mabuya reports
Judge Dayalin Chetty has dismissed the leave to appeal the conviction of Christopher Panayiotou, and his co-accused, Sinethemba Nenembe, and Zolani Sibeko at the Port Elizabeth High Court. Panayiotou was found guilty of the murder of his wife Jayed Panayiotou who was killed in April 2015, and sentenced to life imprisonment with co accused Sinethemba Nenembe. Zolani Sibeko got a 15 years jail term for conspiracy to commit murder. Olwethu Matsipane reports
Growing disputes among traders at the Fragrance Street Market in Durban have spilled over into court matters where some traders are claiming their right to trade is being violated by other traders. Dozens of traders gathered outside the Chatsworth Magistrate Court, south of Durban in support of traders who alleged that they are being harassed and intimidated. Protestors carried placards that read "big bizz crushing small bizz", and "they threw me out" and sang songs of protest as they awaited the court outcome. Rachel Vadi was in court
Some residents of the North West province, led by the ANC, have embarked on what they call a peace march in Mmabatho aimed at creating reconciliation and the renewal of the province. The march comes after the community in the province embarked on a violent protest last month demanding Premier Supra Mahumapelo to step down from his position because of the alleged corruption surrounding him. Our reporter Zebilon Maine is with the marchers.
Two cash-in-transit vehicles have been bombed during a heist on Atlas road in Boksburg‚ Ekurhuleni today. The scene was littered with debris and the cash vans torn apart by the force of the blasts. Bullet shells were also scattered across the road which has now been closed off by police. We spoke to Anti-Crime activist, Yusuf Abramjee.
Eskom board chairperson Jabulani Mabuza has once again reiterated that the risk of load shedding is not likely to occur this winter. He was briefing the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (scopa) in Parliament, on the debt burden created by defaulting municipalities
Many South Africa football fans believe Mamelodi Sundowns can beat Spanish giants, Barcelona. The two teams meet tomorrow (Wednesday) evening at the FNB Stadium, as part of the Nelson Mandela Centenary Celebrations. Themba Shiba reports
Port Elizabeth police are investigating a case of attempted murder after shots were fired at the whistleblower in the case against controversial Nigerian Pastor, Timothy Omotoso. The incident happened outside her house at KwaZakhele. Olwethu Matsipane reports.
EFF leader Julius Malema has slammed African governments which were part of the ceremony for the inauguration of the US embassy in Jerusalem. The ceremony, which was endorsed by more than two-dozen African countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Angola, and Zambia, marked the official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital city of Israel. The move has been met with fierce criticism by some western powers and pro-Palestine human rights groups, with South Africa also withdrawing its ambassador to Israel. This follows the killing of at least 60 Palestinian protesters and the wounding of about 2000 more along the the Gaza-Israel border. Our Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports.
The Inter-Ministerial task team appointed to probe governance issues in the North West will soon release its report on their preliminary findings. The team, led by Minister in the presidency Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, has tabled its report before Cabinet. The team was appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa following violent protests in the province over calls for Supra Mahumapelo to be removed as premier.
The situation at Tshepong Hospital in the North West province is becoming dire as the strike by NEHAWU members intensifies. The hospital, which is biggest in the province, is now only attending to patients requiring urgent medical help. The strikers have been intimidating doctors and other staff members and they even hauled some of them from operating theatres last week. The strike has been going on since February this year and workers are demanding an increased number of medical staff and an end to corruption in the sector.
The Minister for the Department of Mineral Resources Gwede Mantashe, has emphasized once again the importance of adhering to strict health and safety standards at mines. He was speaking during the memorial service of the seven miners who died last week during a seismic event at Sibanye Still-Water Mine in Driefontein, west of Johannesburg.. In a statement released following these deaths, the department revealed that there has been an increase in the number of fatalities within the gold sector so far this year. It says Sibanye Still-Water is one of the main contributors. Mantashe says stakeholders in this sector must come up with ways to end deaths at mines
Former Western Cape Police Commissioner Arno Lamoer will serve an effective six-year jail term on corruption charges. This after the High Court in Cape Town sentenced him to eight years in prison, two of which were suspended for five years. The three co accused tow truck company owner Salim Dawjee, and police officers Darius van der Ross and Colin Governder will also serve jail terms.
The DA has allegedly offered Cape Town Mayor, Patricial De Lille a new deal to keep the position of mayor and Councillor open for the next three months. This as the two are expected to lock horns at the Cape Town High Court on Friday as De Lille is challenging the party's decision to strip her of her membership. De Lille is believed to have refused the offer by the DA and recently announced on twitter that Advocate Dali Mpofu will be joining her legal team in preparation of the showdown tomorrow.
ANC councillor Andile Lungisa has been sentenced to two years imprisonment and one year suspended sentence by the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court in the Eastern Cape. Lungisa has been found guilty of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm after hitting a DA councillor Rano Kayser with a jug during a squabble at the council meeting in October 2016. Our reporter Olwethu Matsipane was in court.
The ANC Youth League has called on the controversial Member of Parliament and former Deputy Higher Education Minister Mduduzi Manana to resign. This after a recording of him allegedly offering to pay 100-thousand rand to his domestic worker Christine Wiro, emerged. This was in exchange for dropping the assault charges against him. Manana allegedly pushed Wiro down the stairs of his Fourways home after she reportedly opened the gate for someone Manana was not expecting. Manana was convicted last year for assualting women outside a Joburg nightclub. Listen to the audio from that conversation where he allegedly offers money.
A researcher says parents in South Africa are not doing enough to protect their children. This comes after a couple from Phoenix north of Durbanwas arrested on charges of attempting to murder their four-year-old daughter. A video of the woman assaulting the little girl went viral on social media in March this year. It's also alleged her boyfriend also punched the child before throwing her against a cabinet. He can be heard in the video encouraging the woman to hit the child. The couple had initially been charged with assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm but the charge was changed to attempted murder after the video surfaced. The boyfriend handed himself over to police after his car was torched by angry protesters. The four-year-old developed a blood clot on her brain and was also left with bruises to her body and swollen legs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to researcher at the Children's Institute at the University of Cape Town, Lucy Jamieson.
Civil society group "not In My Name" has marched to Mamelodi police station to voice their anger about how the officers there dealt with the case of the late 10-year old Katlego Joja, who was found dead in a river near her home at the weekend. It is unclear how she died. Police told her family to wait for 24-hours before the case could be taken up officially. Gauteng Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane visited the family yesterday, and announced that some police officials have been suspended pending a disciplinary process. She apologised to the family. However, the NGO says government must ensure that the police do their job, instead of dealing with the situation after such incidents have occurred. Our reporter Phumzile Mlangeni attended the march and spoke to our presenter Sakina Kamwendo.
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has made an about turn regarding his resignation and now says it is up to the Provincial Executive Committee to decide his fate. Mahumapelo told SABC News last night that he'll also meet with the provincial government over his decision to quit. Talk of his resignation follows weeks of unrest in the North West with communities calling for him to vacate office. Here's what he had to say to his supporters who disrupted the PEC Meeting today.
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has told the provincial legislature that he will hand over a letter to the speaker on Friday. Mahumapelo, who was delivering his budget speech on Tuesday, did not say what the letter would include, but indicated it would be in line with the Constitution.
A six-month-old baby has been killed, allegedly by her own father, at Hlala-Mpja near Mookgopong. The 27-year-old man accused the child's mother of cheating. The 19-year-old mother had ended the relationship after accusing the suspect Lesiba Motsai, of abuse. The child's aunt and grandmother allegedly witnessed the incident at the suspect's home. Motsai has already appeared in court on a charge of murder and it is reported that he intends to plead guilty. The case has been postponed to 31 May for bail application. In another incident, A 10-year-old girl has been found hanging from a tree at her home at Saselamani outside Malamulele in Limpopo. The police say Ntwisiso Chablalala who is a grade 4 learner was discovered by a friend.
Classes have been suspended at the University of the Free State Qwaqwa campus. This follows students protest that led to the shutdown of the institution. Students embarked on a protest after a number of students received SMSes that they were being de-registered.
The DA has rescinded Cape Town mayor Patricia De Lille's membership. The party's Federal Executive Committee has announced the decision at a media briefing.The DA says it expects Deputy Cape Town Mayor Ian Neilson to take over as acting mayor after the DA rescinded Patricia De Lille's membership. It's not clear, however, whether De Lille will cease to be mayor unless she resigns or the city council passes a vote of no confidence in her. The DA's Federal Executive Committee says De Lille's membership ceased on the 26th of April when she publicly stated on a radio station that she would resign at the end of her legal battle with the DA. Last week, she indicated that she would go to court if the Fedex did not rule in her favour.
The missing ten-year-old girl from Mamelodi, East of Pretoria, has been found dead. Katlego Joja went missing last Thursday morning while playing at her Mamelodi West home. Her mother thought she was in the outside room with her grandmother, while the grandmother thought she was in the main house.
Home owners in Protea Glen, south of Johannesburg have vowed to stop any in attempts by group of Land invaders to occupy vacant land in the area. In what could be seen as a "face off" between Protea Glen residents and those trying to occupying the land, saw the blockading of several roads to stop those who are erecting shacks in the area. According to authorities, the group has been trying to illegally grab land for the past week, claiming they wanted the space to build their homes.
NEHAWU Shopstewards, whose members are striking at hospitals and clinics in the North West province, are meeting in Mafikeng to discuss allegations that their members are blockading entrances to hospitals in order to prevent doctors and other non-striking workers from working.
Doctors were removed from wards and theatres while conducting their duties last week.Desperate doctors in the NW province wrote a letter to provincial authorities last week calling on them to intervene.
The fate of embattled North West premier, Supra Mahumapelo remains in the balance as talks of his future by the ANC top 6 continue at Luthuli House. President Cyril Ramaphosa and the other five officials are discussing the decision by the party's national working committee which recommended that Mahumapelo be recalled. This follows numerous allegations against Mahumapelo and the violent service delivery protests.
Clashes between rival gangs in Pollsmoor Prison have left an inmate dead. Another has been seriously wounded. About two weeks ago, two correctional officers were stabbed at the Goodwood Correctional Facility during gang fights. Western Cape Provincial Correctional Services spokesperson, Simphiwe Xako gave us an update on this and other issues of safety.
Challenges currently faced by SABC employees and changes made on certain radio stations were discussed at a meeting between the Parliament's Communications Committee and three SABC unions. The Communication Workers' Union of South Africa (CWU), the Media Workers' Association of SA (Mwasa) and the Broadcasting‚ Electronic Media and Allied Workers Union (Bemawu) made a presentation to the committee in Sandton this morning. The employees at the SABC have over time, raised various concerns about the running and general working conditions at the institution. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the General-Secretary of trade union MWASA Tuwani Gumani.
The Department of Mineral Resources has called on mining companies to prioritise the health and safety of their workers. This comes as rescuers continue to search for 3 missing miners at Sibanye-Stillwater's Masakhane mine in Gauteng this afternoon. Four have died following a seismic event yesterday afternoon, while six are still recovering in hospital. Mine management has denied that lack of proper safety measures has caused the incident saying they have been adhering to stringent safety standards because they are aware that the area is prone to rockfalls. The department set up a team of experts earlier this year which will come up with solutions to minimise deaths due to rockfalls. It says 30 percent of mining fatalities are due to the rockfall. There was seismic event at Kloof Ikamva in Gauteng this year, a worker was crushed to death after a box of gold ore fell on him when blasting. 955 miners were trapped undergound at the company's mine in Welkom but all workers were rescued. Our reporter Candice Nolan is on the story.
A mother of a student at the Nelson Mandela University in Port Elizabeth says she is stressed and frustrated due to NSFAS non-payment of her son's fees
The Nelson Mandela University in Port Elizabeth has been shut down by students who are protesting over the lack of funding from the student financial aid scheme NSFAS.
Power utility ESKOM has assured South Africans that there will be no power outages this winter. There have been reports that ESKOM's coal stockpiles are running low.
A large group of Mangosuthu University of Technology students have stormed the Durban magistrate court carrying placards denouncing bail to a suspect arrested for killing a student. They want the court to deny bail to the former student who allegedly killed his ex-girlfriend Zolile Khumalo.
Sandile Mantsoe has been sentenced to an effective 32 years in prison. Mantsoe was found guilty yesterday in the High Court in Johannesburg on three charges, including the murder of his ex-lover Karabo Mokoena. Handing down sentence, Acting Judge Peet Johnson has said the sentence will send a strong warning that abusive conduct towards women will not be tolerated in society.
Our Workers' Day show includes interviews with Labour Analyst Terry Bell and AMCU president Joseph Mathunjwa.
Police in KwaZulu Natal are monitoring the situation on the N3 in Mooi River in the Midlands closely this afternoon, after violent protests broke out. The protestors are accusing foreign nationals in the trucking industry of taking their jobs. More than twenty trucks were burnt down and over fifty protestors have been arrested. The MEC for Transport has condemned the violence. This was the second incident in three weeks. Sakina Kamwendo started by speaking to KZN Police Spokesperson Thembeka Mbhele.
Police in the North West are urging parents to monitor their children's movements during the violence-marred protests. Police say children are illegally blocking roads with objects and demanding cash from motorists. About three hundred and fourty people have been arrested after violent protests which were accompanied by looting, broke out last week. North West police spokesperson Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone provided Sakina Kamwendo with more information.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has slammed the Grindrod Bank for distributing what is says are misleading pamphlets which depict the bank's green card as one of SASSA's banking accounts of choice. SASSA says it has not been endorsed the card. The agency has given Grindrod Bank and Net1 five days to retract the pamphlet. SASSA accounts have for the last six years been held at the bank on behalf of Cash Paymaster Services (CPS), which used to pay out all the social grants. Sakina Kamwendo interviewed Nandi Mosia who is SASSA Gauteng Spokesperson.
Trade union involved in the bus strike are meeting today. The nation wide strike is now in its 14th day. Talks between the unions and employers are still deadlocked even after a meeting with the Transport and Labour Department Ministers last week. SATAWU says the ministers did not help them at all. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to John Dammert from employer organisation the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Counc
As South Africa celebrates Freedom Day, incidents of racism appear to be on the rise, raising concern about just how far the country has come in eradicating this scourge. This week, a group of white people were photographed hanging a life-size doll dressed in an ANC T-shirt and a picture of Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi, on a tree outside the offices of the Basic Education Department in Pretoria. And last month, the Randburg Magistrate's Court sentenced former Real Estate Agent, Vicki Momberg, to an effective two years in prison for her racist tirade in 2016. Abongile Dumako takes a look at the extent to which racism remains prevalent in South Africa.
Freedom Day was marked a day early in New York City with South African diplomats expressing their appreciation for the support the international community played in defeating Apartheid and for their continued support during the last 24 years of democracy. Around 200 people gathered to mark the day under the theme "The year of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela: towards the full realization of our freedom through radical socio-economic transformation". Sherwin Bryce-Pease was there.
A first ever Land summit has called for people to take up arms to return the land to its rightful owners. The summit held in Johannesburg was hosted by organisations claiming to represent Khoi-San people. Those in attendance included Professor Ruth Hall, Kallie Kriel from Afriforum and Andile Mngxitama of the Black First Land First movement. Candice Nolan has the details on that.
At least seven people have died in a collision between a train and a bakkie early this morning at the Buttskop level crossing, outside Cape Town. Metrorail has blamed the crash in Blackheath on human error, saying the bakkie driver ignored boom signals. Residents have called for urgent interventions at the crossing, following numerous deaths there. Berenice Moss reports.
The IAAF maintains that its new regulation for female classification is to ensure a level playing field for athletes. The new law prohibits athletes with a set testosterone level from competing in international events. The federation says research shows that high testosterone circulation, either naturally produced or artificially inserted into the body provides significant performance advantages in female athletes. The new regulation, approved by the IAAF council will take effect from November.
The North West Health Department has been placed under administration. Cabinet has announced that a team from Treasury and the National Health Department will be sent to the province to assist as the state of the department deteriorates with poor service delivery issues being worsened by the current workers' strike.
ICASA says from now on consumers will no longer be billed out of data bundle rates. It also says consumers will be allowed to carry over their data to the next month. Data will no longer expire and be forfeited if not used up at the end of 30 days. This as high cost of data & expiry of data bundles and out-of-bundle business rules applied by network service providers is on the spotlight today.
Senior public servants who often resign to avoid consequences when facing corruption and maladministration charges, will now find it hard to evade prosecution. The Special Investigating Unit is determined to clamp down on these officials. Some of them later emerge in other provinces where they are appointed to government departments or public entities. This emerged during a consultative meeting between the SIU and the Gauteng provincial government in which they pledge to work together to fight corruption, malpractice and maladministration. Wisani Makhubele reports...
The Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) and the National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa (NUMSA), want a meeting with Transport Minister Blade Nzimande to discuss the deadlock with employers over a wage increase. The workers have been striking for a week now leaving commuters stranded, forcing them to use taxis which are expensive for many of them. The unions have come down from a demand of 12% wage increase to a now revised 9.5 percent increase in the first year and 8.5 percent in the second, but employers are digging in their heels with an offer of 9 percent and 8 percent for that period. The parties failed to reach a resolution during a meeting last night. SATAWU's Zanele Sabela spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Thousands of members affiliated to labour federation SAFTU are marching across the country to highlight their dissatisfaction with government's proposed 20-rand per hour minimum wage and amendments to the labour laws. The marchers have been making their way through the streets of major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Bloemfontein and Durban amongst others. The EFF and Right2Know have also expressed solidarity with the march, encouraging members to join the march. We started by speaking to our reporter in Johannesburg Amina Accram.
Three of the four ANC regional structures in the North West say premier Supra Mahumapelo should not resign because he has done an excellent in his position as leader of government in the province. The organisation is currently briefing the media after violent protests broke out last week across the province, with communities calling on Mahumapelo to leave office for poor performance. Dr Kenneth Kaunda regional secretary, Lopang Rothman says Mahumapelo is being targeted because he has been fighting corruption.
The Helen Suzman Foundation launched the court challenge in 2013 after Advocate Jeremy Gauntlett SC failed to make it onto the list of recommended candidates for a position as a judge in the Western Cape High Court.
The foundation says the interviews for judges are to be appointed by the president take place in public, however, the discussions happen in secret. The JSC consists of judges, members of Parliament, legal experts and government officials.
The Public Servants Association of South Africa, which represents more than 230 000 public service workers is threatening a nationwide shut down of government departments if the state fails to come back to the negotiating table by 3pm this afternoon. This follows the request for more time for further consultation made by the Public Service and Administration department. Menawhile, Numsa has called on all its members in the auto sector, steel-making, metals and engineering companies to join tomorrow's national strike action by SAFTU
The District Six Working Committee says it is seeking a court interdict against the state for failing to provide adequate restitution since being forcibly removed from the area. The committee which represents over two-thousand families says they want to know when those who opted for financial compensation will be paid, and specific timelines for land restoration.
The high court in Pretoria has heard that the granting of an Australian company a licence to mine at Xolobeni in the Eastern Cape without the consent of the villagers would result in economic displacement for about 600 people. Xolobeni villagers are seeking declaratory relief to prohibit the Mineral Resources department from granting the company a licence to mine without the consent of the community.
Premier Soccer League chairperson Irvin Khoza has condemned the violence by Kaizer Chiefs fans at Durban's Moses Mabhida stadium on Saturday, in which 18 people were injured and a security guard badly beaten. Khoza has been addressing a media conference:
The man who was caught on video flinging his baby from the top of the roof of his shack, has been released on a warning by the Port Elizabeth Magistrates court where he appeared earlier today on charges of child abuse. The one-year old was caught by a metro police officer and was unharmed. The man climbed onto the roof with the child as their homes at Joe Slovo informal settlement were being demolished by the municipality because they had been built illegally. Our reporter Jayed-Leigh Paulse attended court court proceedings.
The High Court in Polokwane has dismissed a claim for damages by the parents of five-year-old learner Michael Komape, who drowned in a pit toilet in 2014. The family, with the assistance of civil rights groups Section 27, launched a civil case against both the national and provincial education departments. Komape was a learner at Mahlodumela Primary School in Chebeng Village outside Polokwane. His parent wanted compensation of R3 million for their suffering. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere was in court.
It's day two of the murder trial of Sandile Mantsoe who is accused of killing his 22-year old girlfriend Karabo Mokoena last year. Today Mokoena's younger sister gave her testimony.
ANC Councillor in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Andile Lungisa, has been found guilty of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm. Lungisa who appeared in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court was convicted of the assault of DA councillor, Rayno Kayser, with a glass jug during a brawl in the first council meeting in October 2016. His co-accused, another ANC Councillor Gamelihle Maqula was acquitted due to insufficient evidence. Magistrate Morne Cannon described Lungisa as an unreliable witness.
Coal supply challenges at Eskom could potentially be 'as serious, if not worse' than those experienced before the load shedding of 2008. Reports suggest that 7 of Eskom's power stations don't have adequate coal supply at the moment. The power utility says it's doing its best to avoid load shedding and insists the situation is not an emergency as yet.
Residents of Windsor East have accused the red ants of theft, following evictions in over ten flats and townhouse complexes. The raid seems to be targeting particular units in the buildings. Many residents had begun to move their belongings onto the streets, before the Red Ants arrived.
The State Security Agency has announced that its Director- General Arthur Fraser has been moved to the Correctional Services Department. The agency's spokesperson Brian Dube says the transfer follows consultations between President Cyril Ramaphosa, State Security Minister Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba and Fraser. Loyiso Jafta has been appointed to act as the agency's Director-General until the appointment process for the post is finalised. The move comes ahead of Inspector-General of Intelligence Setlhomamaru Dintwe's case in the High Court in Pretoria on Thursday, asking it to bar Fraser from interfering with his duties.
The DA in the Eastern Cape has lambasted the father who tossed his baby from a roof while resisting the demolishing of his shack in Joe Slovo informal settlement in KwaDwesi, Port Elizabeth. This as the 38 year old man makes his first appearance today at the New Brighton Magistrate's court on charges of attempted murder. DA leader in the province and Nelson Mandela Bay mayoral committee member for human settlements, Nqaba Bhanga says the policeman that caught the one year old toddler should be applauded while the father's actions amount to 'gross domestic violence
Former Safety and Security minister Sydney Mufamadi has dismissed allegations made in the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela documentary. The documentary alleged that Mufamadi ordered a re-investigation into Stompie Sepei's murder and was involved in discrediting late struggle icon.
The pre-trial of the terror accused twins Brandon-Lee and Tony-Lee Thulsie was again postponed to May 30th in the High Court in Johannesburg today. They were arrested two years ago on allegations that they were plotting to attack institutions and sites that are important to Jews. They are also accused of planning attacks on the US embassy and have been linked to ISIS.
The first witness in the trial of 28-year old Sandile Mantsoe, who is accused of murdering his 22-year girlfriend Karabo Mokoena has taken the stand in the High Court in Johannesburg today. Mantsoe was arrested last year in May after Mokoena's burnt body was discovered in Lyndhurst north of Johannesburg. He has denied killing her but admits that he disposed of her body after finding allegedly finding Mokoena dead in his flat.
Workers and students at UNISA have launched a protest today against Professor Peter Havenga, who is the Executive Director: Academic Planner at the institution. They are accusing him of making the working environment unbearable for black women in his department. They are demanding that he leaves the university. The Secretary-General of the Black Forum, an organisation representing women who are allegedly being abused, Kgagudi Morota says this abuse has been going on for years.
The mother of one of the three children who died after a wall collapsed in Doornfontein, Johannesburg says she's battling to come to terms with the death of her son. The children, aged between three and 10-years were playing next to the wall of a derelict building when it fell on them yesterday. The children were staying in the disused building with their parents
The families who have lost their relatives during petrol bomb disaster at Driekop near Burgersfort are living in anguish - as the remains of the deceased haven't been released. The families remain in mourning but don't know when will the burials be conducted. The deceased were burnt inside a bus which was petrol bombed. Five of the victims are locals and the other is a Lesotho national.
DA leader in the Free State, Patricia Kopane lead the party's delegation for an oversight visit of a housing project involving ANC Secretary General, Ace Magashule and his daughter. The DA says it intends on laying charges against Magashule for allegedly meddling in a housing project in order to ensure that a company linked to his daughter secured a housing contract worth 150 Million rands.
The ANC today unveiled a Wall of Remembrance for Mama Winnie Madikizela Mandela outside its headquarters in Johannesburg later this morning. The wall will allow members of the public to sign their own messages of condolences and support to Mam Winnie. This is part of the ongoing ten-day mourning. A national memorial service for the struggle icon will be held at the Orlando Stadion in Soweto on Wednesday and she will be laid to rest during a special official funeral on Saturday.
The case against three former SARS officials has been postponed until June this year. They appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates Court today on charges of corruption and contravention of the RICA Act. These relate to the so-called rogue unit at the revenue service which was alleged to have taken part in illegal spying. Ivan Pillay, Johann van Loggerenberg and Andries van Rensburg were served with summonses last week.
Six inmates are still on the run after they escaped from Joburg Prison, also known as Sun City, in the early hours of this morning. The suspects were awaiting trial prisoners.
Five days since the VAT increase, some consumers are already feeling the pinch while others say they are coping. Government increased VAT which is charged on goods and services, from 14 to 15 percent on the 1st of April. The hike has resulted in an increase in general prices. Hilda Kasa reports
More than 100 residents of Brandwag flats in Bloemfontein have been left homeless after they were evicted from their flats. The eviction comes after their failed appeal at the Supreme Court of Appeal. The company which manages the block of flats got a court order for residents to be evicted so that it can start renovating the flats. Thabiso Radebe reports..
The Eastern Cape continues to mourn the passing of the fearless anti-apartheid heroine Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. The Western Pondoland kingdom and ANC veterans have paid tribute to her, calling her a beacon of hope. They say this liberation giant has left an indelible mark in the liberation struggle. Fundiswa Mhlekude reports.....
More dignitaries and prominent personalities continue to visit the home of the anti-Apartheid icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in Orlando Township in SOWETO. The fiery freedom fighter passed on Monday after short illness aged 81. President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a special official funeral to honour the woman who became the face of anti-Apartheid resistance for a period spanning three decades. Our Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports.
A three-day meeting of Southern African Development Community defence and security chiefs aimed at curbing rhino poaching is underway at the Kruger National Park. Among other things the countries in the SADC region are working on standardising their laws in dealing with rhino poaching. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports
Former President Jacob Zuma has called on churches to pray for peaceful elections ahead of next year's general elections. Zuma joined the Covenant Fellowship Church International on the last day of the Easter Passover church service held in Esikhaleni outside Mpangeni on the northern KwaZulu-Natal. On Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa also attended the service at the same church - something Zuma said was just a coincidence. Vusi Makhosini reports…
The multitudes of Zion Christian Church (ZCC) pilgrims and thousands of holiday-makers are back on the N1 south from Limpopo TODAY as the Easter weekend ends. The two ZCC churches, represented by the star or dove insignia, were in Moria for their respective Easter pilgrimages from Friday to YESTERDAY (sunday). The pilgrims, who started leaving last night, are sharing the roads with a throng of motorists who visited the province and neighbouring countries to celebrate the Easter holidays with their loved ones and families. For an update on the country's busiest highway this holiday, we are joined on the line by Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC, Makoma Makhurupetje
The director or port of entry at the Department of Home Affairs, Stephen van Neel says the number of people crossing the Beit bridge border has drastically increased, with more than twenty-two thousand people having crossed into Zimbabwe at the border post in Musina in Limpopo in the last twenty-four hours. He spoke to Ike Phaahla
R55 road users in Laudium, west of Pretoria CBD, have been warned to avoid the road following the development of a sinkhole on Sunday morning. This is the third sinkhole to hit Pretoria recently. The road has been partialy closed as technicians and geologists assess the situation. The wall of a nearby house has also collapsed. Maluti Obuseng reports
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) is anticipating an increase in malaria cases during the Easter holidays. The Instituted is warning travelers who will be going to high transmission areas in the country and outside, to take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Communicable Diseases Expert at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Professor Lucille Blumberg
Despite warnings of the deadly listeriosis outbreak, some tuck shops are still selling kotas with polony. This is according to news services, Healthy Living Alliance. Listeriosis has so far killed 183 people, with fears of more possible deaths. Sakina Kamwendo looked at the ramifications of still eating processed food, with Executive Director of Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA), Sbongile Nkosi.
George Glynos, Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics (Pty) Ltd looks at South African markets as quarterly employment stats are expected ,expect a recovery, SA has been caught up in Trump's import duties on Steel and Aluminium and all the good news SA has received recently as ZAR has performed well
SABC Senior Economics Reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at Asian markets as seemingly a turnaround in market sentiment , tour local equity market in the doldrums and Numsa / RSA action against the proposed signing of IPP agreements
The Eastern Cape Aids Council and the NGO responsible for HIV screening in schools, Khethimpilo have refuted allegations that they breached HIV/AIDS testing guidelines or infringed on the rights of pupils during an HIV screening of pupils in Alfonso Arries Primary School in Port Elizabeth. This emerged during a meeting attended by the council, Khethimpilo, the Basic Department of Education and parents at the school following an outcry by parents claiming there was neither parental consent nor counselling during the HIV screening. Parent also allege the status of some children who tested positive was made public during the HIV screening. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of non-profit organization, Khula Development Project, Petros Majola.
Police in Mpumalanga have launched a manhunt for a suspect, who allegedly shot and killed two people at Kabokweniar White River. neThe suspect allegedly shot his wife and mother-in-law. Eric Lubisi filed this report and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Karen Pillay who is an Independent Development Practitioner who focuses on the rights of women and children
SABC Senior Economics Reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at Asian markets as they experience seemingly a turnaround in market sentiment, tour local equity market in the doldrums yesterday and Numsa / RSA action against the proposed signing of IPP agreements
The National Education Department is expected to meet with Khethimpilo, a non-governmental organisation, which has been accused of conducting HIV tests on primary school learners in Port Elizabeth. Parents of children are fuming following the HIV testing without their consent. Some parents allege some of the children tested positive and the results were given in front of the other learners. The angry parents say there was no counselling provided for the children. SABC reporter, Mcebisi Ngqina visited the community. Sakina Kanwendo spoke to an anonymous mother of a school learner that was tested from HIV without her consent and spokesperson for the department of basic education, Elijah Mhlanga
George Glynos, Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics (Pty) Ltd looks at South African markets as Moody’s gave SA a reprieve much to the relief of SA politicians and the economy at large, next major event for SA and shortened week thanks to the Easter holidays
The PAC struggle veteran Kenny Motsamai's parole has been revoked. Mootsamai is said to have failed to adhere to his parole conditions. Early last month, there was confusion about the rearrest of Motsamai. This is after he served just over 27 years behind bars as a political prisoner. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to PAC President, Narius Moloto
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has sent legal officers and investigators to probe the reported cases of sexual exploitation and abuse by its members serving as United Nations peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This comes after five new cases of sexual exploitation and abuse are being investigated against five members of the South African National Defense Force serving as UN peacekeepers in the DRC. The new allegations surfaced just a month after four similar cases, which included three of sexual exploitation, were reported against South African troops serving in the MONUSCO mission bringing the total number in 2018 to 9. The incidents are said to have taken place between 2014 and 2016 in North and South Kivu in the country's east. Sherwin Bryce-Pease this report and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of communications at the SANDF, Brigadier General Mafi Mgobhozi.
The Basic education department says it has made great strides in putting sanitation in schools despite budgetary challenges. The department says a seven Billion rand budget for infrastructure is set aside annually however they need an extra three Billion rands to eradicate pit toilets in schools. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Mohamed Surty.
Nadir Thokan of 27four Investment Managers looks at South African markets ahead of the latest escalation of Trump in the trade war, South African inflation numbers and Naspers decision to sell 2% of its Tencent stake
Wayne Mccurrie, Ashburton Investments Senior Portfolio Manager talks Asian markets as USA federal reserve bank increased interest rates last night and expect another two expected this year
There are no human rights without land, justice and dignity. That's the view of Economic Freedom Fighters' Leader - Julius Malema. Malema, who was addressing the Human Rights Day commemoration in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, focused his address on the topical debate
African leaders have signed an agreement to set up a single continental market that is expected to boost trade and speed up integration. 44 of 55 African Union Member states signed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTFTA) at an extraordinary summit of the continental body in Kigali, Rwanda. President Muhamadu Buhari of Nigeria, one of Africa's biggest economies, cancelled his trip to Rwanda saying his country needed more time to consult. President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the declaration on the establishment of the African Continental Free trade area and termed it the dawn of a new era for Africa. Sarah Kimani reports from Kigali.
The majority of the 110 Nigerian schoolgirls kidnapped by militants in the town of Dapchi last month have been released. Authorities say 101 schoolgirls were dropped back in the town in the early hours of Wednesday. However, reports suggest at least five girls died during their kidnapping and that a Christian girl remains captive. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in Abuja, Kunle Babs.....
African leaders have signed an agreement to set up a single continental market that is expected to boost trade and speed up integration. 44 of 55 African Union Member states signed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTFTA) at an extraordinary summit of the continental body in Kigali, Rwanda. President Muhamadu Buhari of Nigeria, one of Africa's biggest economies, cancelled his trip to Rwanda saying his country needed more tume to consult. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Author of 'Africa Is Open for Business' , Victor Kgomoeswana
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan talks South African markets as Tencent earnings, South African inflation numbers and the Federal Reserve’s decision to increase interest rates.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has recommended that government should remove the 'forceful categorisation' of Khoi and San people as 'Coloured'. SAHRC released their long-awaited report into the alleged abuse of the Khoi and San communities in Eastern, Western, Northern Cape and Gauteng. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Khoisan Revolutionary Party president, Stanley Peterson and Chris Nisses from the South African Human Rights Commission...
An inquiry set up by the Constitutional Court to help it to determine whether or not former Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini should be held personally liable for the grants crisis, is at liberty to make credibility findings against her. Dlamini's lawyer, Ishmael Semenya SC, tried to argue that it was not open to inquiry chair, Judge Bernard Ngeope, to determine whether the minister was lying. Candice Nolan has the details….
Deputy President David Mabuza will be in the National Assembly for his maiden oral reply session on Tuesday. The SABC will also be in Parliament to present its quarterly financial report and respond to current issues that have surfaced in the media while the rescue of Limpopo based VBS Mutual Bank will also come under the spotlight. These are just some of the events taking place in Parliament tomorrow as our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more...
Commuters in Ekurhuleni are advised to find alternative transport as no Taxi will be operating in the area on Tuesday. OR Tambo International Airport has also advised travellers to expect delays due to the strike which will affect the R21 and R24 roads which lead to the airport.. In a tweet, the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) stipulated issues with the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) as the part of the strike. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Secretary of Santaco Ekurhuleni, Buti Mahlangu....
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he's determined to keep his commitment to establish a commission of inqury into governance matters at SARS. Ramaphosa's statement comes after confirming his decision to suspend SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane. National Treasury has announced that Mark Kingon will act in Moyane's position. Kingon was the acting chief officer of business and individual tax after Jonas Makwakwa announced his resignation from the position last week. Ramaphosa says the urgent restoration of confidence in SARS is in the public interest. Presidential spokesperson Khuseli Diko spoke to Sakina Kamwendo...
The disciplinary hearing of Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille is scheduled to begin this morning. De Lille is facing charges of misconduct relating to her role as the leader of the DA cuacus in the City of Cape Town. The DA is accusing her of covering up acts of maladministration in the council. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to her...
Families of the Life Esidimeni tragedy have called on law enforcement agencies to now fast track criminal procedures faced by those implicated in the death of a hundred and forty-four four mentally-ill patients. This follows a call by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke for police to 'do their work' and investigate criminal charges arising from the facts of the arbitration hearing. The hearing concluded yesterday with Moseneke's scathing orders which included a million rand award for the affected families. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Umunyana Rugege from human rights group, Section 27 who are one of the parties representing the families...
On the Forum@8 we shine a spotlight on violence against teachers. A week ago, a video showing a pupil throwing what appears to be an exercise book at a teacher in the classroom went viral. In the video the teacher walks out of the classroom. Teachers unions say incidents similar to this one are common in our schools and that teachers are being attacked by learners daily with very little being down to stop this violence. In another incident, A group of teachers is undergoing trauma counselling after being assaulted by learners at Rearabilwe Secondary School in Lehurutse in the North West. Two grade 10 learners, aged 18 and 20, assaulted five teachers after being reprimanded for disrupting teaching by playing loud music on their cellphones. The South African Council of Educators suggest that cameras be installed in schools to curb the violence and learners organisation- COSAS calls for workshops to equip both pupils and teachers on dispute management. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to President of Congress Of South African Students (COSAS), John Macheke,Spokesperson of the South African Council of Educators (SACE), Themba Ndlovu; Secretary of Governors' Alliance, Kathy Callaghan; Spokesperson for the department of basic education,Elijah Mhlanga
The Hawks have given the clearest indication that they know where the Gupta brothers are. Last month, the Hawks issued a warrant of arrest for Ajay Gupta in connection to the failed multi-million Rand Estina Dairy Farm Project in the Free State. The Gupta brothers have subsequently failed to appear before Parliament's inquiry into corporate governance at Eskom. The family is also facing citizenship disputes between India and South Africa.
Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba says he did not interfere in the tender processes during the time he was Public Enterprises Minister from 2010 to 2014. Gigaba YESTERDAY appeared before the Eskom parliamentary inquiry into alleged state capture. He was responding to various allegations levelled against him by some of the witnesses who testified in the inquiry
A Police Forensic Investigator is embroiled in allegations of sexual abuse of two learners at AB Xuma Primary school in Soweto. Gauteng's Education Department says the accused police officer is part of a team investigating a case of sexual abuse at the same school. These shocking revelations emerge amidst the school trying to get to the bottom of a recent case of sexual abuse levelled against the school patroller, to the same girls. We speak to Gauteng MEC for Education Panyaza Lesufi
Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba says he did not interfere in the tender processes during the time he was Public Enterprises Minister from 2010 to 2014. Gigaba YESTERDAY appeared before the Eskom parliamentary inquiry into alleged state capture. He was responding to various allegations levelled against him by some of the witnesses who testified in the inquiry. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports.
Police Minister Bheki Cele says police will take ownership of the streets away from criminals and they will be visible 24/7, especially in crime hotspots. He was addressing residents at Lower Crossroads near Gugulethu on the Cape Flats during an imbizo with community members. Earlier, Cele, accompanied by police top brass in the province also interacted with community members from Gugulethu at the local police station. There have been several violent incidents of land grabs in the area, including Gugulethu, in the past week in demand of land and housing. Mlamli Maneli reports...
The community of Eldorado Park, South of ts that Johannesburg will embark on a protest this morning. Reports are that the community plans to shut down the area, demanding that problems at a local school be resolved. To get clarity on what is really going on, we are now joined on the line by Community activist, Keith Duarte
Metalworkers union- NUMSA and civil organasation- Transform SA have won an urgent court interdict to prevent Energy Minister Jeff Radebe from signing deals with 27 renewable energy producers. Minister Radebe was due to sign the agreements with the independent power producers, or IPP's, in a move expected to shift South Africa's energy mix towards greater use of renewable sources like solar energy. we speak to NUMSA Acting Spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola...
It remains to be seen if indeed Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba will attend the Eskom State capture Inquiry happening in parliament today. Gigaba bunked parliament last week and submitted an unsigned sick note. While we are at it, there are reports that the Former SAA Board Chairperson Dudu Myeni, the Gupta brothers and Duduzane Zuma, who are central to this Eskom inquiry, won't be attending today. Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises, Zukiswa Rantho says Myeni excused herself from today's meeting sighting an illness, while the Gupta brothers, through their Attorney, said they won't be attending because they are out of the country. We speak to Parliament's Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises, Zukiswa Rantho
Forensic investigator, Paul O'Sullivan says he intends opening up murder charges against Tiger Brands for the deaths of people due to the Listeriosis outbreak. O'Sullivan, who is also the founder of a non-profit organisation called Forensics for Justice, says it is shocking that Tiger Brands, in its recent annual report, placed product quality as number nine on the list of risks facing the company, when it should have been at number one. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, over 180 people have died from the Listeriosis outbreak, including babies and children under the age of 14 years old. O'Sullivan says the board of Tiger Brands should resign immediately.
-Will the Gupta's, Duduzane Zuma and Dudu Myeni ever appear before the Eskom Inquiry? - Nandos launches online database which will be used to generate a spellcheck update for common word processors. - Somalia wins #FinePeopleOfAfrica challenge
Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics, George Glynos, looks at key data releases both domestically and abroad, events that will be of interest that we can look forward to through the course of March and Britain’s Finance Minister to deliver his half-yearly update today
The IEC expects Gauteng and Kwazulu Natal to record the highest number of new voters on the voters' roll. The IEC says although it is still early to have the exact numbers, they are convinced that the two provinces will have the highest figures. IEC Vice chairperson, Terry Tselane has noted a few disruptions in areas such as Katlehong in Gauteng, Makhaza in the Western Cape, Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga and Vuwani in Limpopo. Tselane says generally the turn-out was commendable...We speak to the IEC Vice chairperson, Terry Tselane
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba look at Asian markets all in the green today, the Political scandal in Japan and Chinese FDI in SA's oil sector.
China has removed presidential term limits from its constitution giving President Xi Jinping the right to remain in office indefinitely. The constitutional changes were passed by China's annual sitting of the National People's Congress YESTERDAY. The amendments also include inserting Xi's political theory into the constitution, something that was already added to the party charter in October at the end of a party congress, a feat no other leader since Chairman Mao had managed while in office.
- South African reserve Bank has places #VBSBank under curatorship.
- ANC Leaders call on Malema to return to the ANC
- Cardi B, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift win BIG at iheartradio awards
The police in the Eastern Cape have established a task team to investigate the murders related to taxi violence in the Mthatha area. Five people which include one passenger, have been gunned down over the weekend. A number of people were also wounded in the shootings. Nkululeko Nyembezi has filed this report.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he is humbled by interest shown by ordinary South Africans to check and confirm their registration details during voter registration drive at the weekend. He spent the last two days in Soweto and Tshwane encouraging people to register ahead of the 2019 national elections. The president was accompanied by Gauteng Premier David Makhura and other ANC officials in the province. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo went along and filed this report.
North West Premier, Supra Mahumapelo, says there is a political onslaught in the province aimed at unseating him from his position. He was reacting after the Hawks raided his offices and those of the provincial Finance Department in search of documents related to alleged irregularities. Mahumapelo, who is also the North West ANC Chairperson, says the party leadership in the province has discussed this matter, and will inform the public soon. Patrick Dintwa has the details .
The Independent Electoral Commission, IEC, says preparations are in place for this weekend's voter registration and verification drive. The commission says it will open its more than 22 - thousand stations throughout the country from eight am to five pm on Saturday and Sunday. This is in a bid to allow eligible voters to either register or update their details in preparation for the 2019 elections. We speak to the IEC's Vice Chairperson, Terry Tselane...
The long-awaited renewable power purchase agreements with 27 independent power projects will be signed on Tuesday next week. Energy Minister Jeff Radebe made the announcement in Parliment YESTERDAY. The decision will feed more renewable energy into the national grid with the 27 projects expected to account for investment of about R56bn in the next two to three years. For their reaction to this new dawn in the country's power supply chain. We speak to Terrence Govender, Chairperson of the South African Renewable Energy Council.
Striking workers at the Gupta owned Optimum coal mine in Mpumalanga have gone back to work. National Union of Mineworkers - NUM - Regional Secretary in Mpumalanga, Tshilidzi Mathavha, says they are pleased with the outcome of the meeting they had with the Minister of Mineral Resources Gwede Mantashe YESTERDAY over unpaid salaries.
Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics George Glynos looks at SA markets seemingly ignoring most of the political noise, President Trump implementing tariff increases of 25% on Steel and 10% on Aluminum and ECB left rates unchanged yesterday, today the BoJ did the same, two major central banks that are far from hiking.
Ashburton Investments Senior Portfolio Manager Wayne Mccurrie looks at Aspen Normalised earnings up 26% , Mtn and Sanlam good results but some small negatives
Atul and Rajeesh Gupta are South African citizens, however, their brother Ajay is not. Home Affairs Director-General, Mkhuseli Apleni, sought to clarify the statements that Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba made in Parliament yesterday. Gigaba had earlier said Atul Gupta was not a South African citizen. Atul was naturalised in 2002 and his brother Rajeesh in 2006.
Academic activities at Walter Sisulu University in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape continue to be disrupted as the Academic Professional Staff Association continues with its protest action. The association is calling for the in-sourcing of their members working for private companies at the institution. The institution has been marred by incidents of arson including clashes between a local private security company, the workers and students. Spokesperson of the Academic professional Staff Association, Thando Mxoli says at least one worker remains in a critical condition in hospital while a student was shot with a pellet gun in the leg..
One of the two suspects who appeared in the Ngcobo magistrate court on Monday afternoon will appear again today for rape, sexual exploitation and sexual grooming charges. Thirty year old Banele Mancoba, a senior member of the controversial Seven Angels Ministries church appeared in court on Monday afternoon alongside 29 year old Siphenathi Mafikwana for a charge of conspiracy to commit robbery with aggravating circumstances. The crime is alleged to have been committed last year. Fundiswa Mhlekude filed this report....
The repatriation of eight Zimbabwean children who've been kept at a place of safety in Rustenburg in the North West is set to take place today as scheduled. This follows the dismissal of an urgent application by the parents of the children who sought an order from the high court in Pretoria prohibiting officials from deporting the children back to the Zimbabwean capital, Harare. The children aged between 2 and 14 years were found undocumented in the back of a truck in Rustenburg last November. It is believed they were travelling to Cape Town to visit their parents for the Christmas holidays. Phumzile Mlangeni reports…
The School Governing Body at Eldorado Secondary School, south of Johannesburg has threatened a lockdown of the school if Gauteng Education MEC, Panyaza Lesufi, suspends the school's principal. This follows weeks of disruptions to learning and teaching as teachers aligned to SADTU have abandoned their posts since late last year. Its alleged the teachers staged a walk-out after the SGB of the school allegedly refused to let SADTU continue to hold unauthorised union meetings on school premises without its permission. We speak to Gauteng education MEC Panyaza Lesufi, report compiled by Jamaine Krige.
Civil Society group, Black Sash, is back in the Constitutional court today to argue the case for the uninterrupted payment of social grants next month. Black Sash will be represented in court by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS). In March 2017‚ the Concourt suspended invalidity of the contract between the current service provider‚ Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) and SASSA‚ for a second time until 31 March 2018 to allow for the continuation of the payment of grants and to give SASSA time to appoint a new paymaster. We speak to Wandisa Phama, the lawyer for Black Sash.
At least six SADeC countries have now confirmed their decision to suspend imports of processed meats from South Africa. Zimbabwe is the latest after Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Zambia announced their decision earlier. Pick 'n Pay and Shoprite-Checkers say they have offered full refunds on some Enterprise and Rainbow products.
Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics George Glynos, looks at Finance Minister Nhalnhla Nene's optimism that SA’s growth outlook will be revised higher and that SA may have done enough to avoid a downgrade in March, Parliament's debate whether to nationalize the SARB and what consequence this will have on investors and the financial markets and SA GDP stats for Q4 that will be released later this morning.
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at whether ramaphoria is over with the rand falling almost to 12 against us dollar, Mtn trading update released after trading and Enterprise products that have been recalled due to listeria break out.
Health minister Aaron Motsoaledi has urged the public to stop consuming ready to eat, processed food products, such as polony, viennas and chicken sausages. The minister revealed that the source of the Listerioris outbreak, which has claimed the lives of 180 people in the country so far, has been traced to an Enterprise food production factory in Polokwane, Limpopo. The confirmed number of listeriosis cases has risen to 948.
Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics George Glynos, looks at political developments in the US and EZ, Trump’s tweets about trade wars being a good thing, are we to take these views seriously and what expropriation without compensation might look like.
Students have been out of class at Eldorado Park high school for days as a stand off between the South African Democratic Teachers Union, the School Governing body and School Principal continues.
The shutdown at the Gupta linked Optimum Coal Mine in Mpumalanga is continuing on Friday because on non-payment of salaries to some mine workers. The National Union of Mine Workers says the mine only paid salaries to permanent employees while the contractors have not been paid, allegedly for three months now. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Regional Secretary in Mpumalanga, Tshilidzi Mathavha
The Right2Know Campaign is marching to the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in Bloemfontein on Friday morning, to challenge apartheid-era Intimidation Act. The non-profit advocacy organisation says it is doing this in solidarity with two cases of activists, General Alfred Moyo and former Marikana Women's Group leader Primrose Sonti, who is now a Member of Parliament. The Activists wants the court to declare a section of the Act unconstitutional because they say it violates freedom of expression. R2K Outreach Organiser, Bongani Xezwi spoke to Sakina Kamwendo....
President Cyril Ramaphosa is now expected to initiate the process of re-establishing the SADC Tribunal after the Pretoria High Court on Thursday declared that former president Jacob Zuma's participation in the suspension of the Tribunal in 2012 was unlawful, irrational and unconstitutional. The Tribunal was set up in 2005 as a judicial body to resolve disputes between Southern African states as well as between states and their citizens. In 2011 SADC leaders - including former president Zuma, suspended the tribunal and later removed the court's jurisdiction for individuals in 2014. Sakina Kamwendo to Ottilia Maunganidze, Head of Special Projects at the Institute for Security Studies...
Police Minister Bheki Cele says human trafficking needs the co-operation of a bigger crime prevention cluster and home affairs to nip it in the bud. SABC radio news spoke to Cele following shocking revelations of human trafficking that was revealed by the Hawks when they appeared before the Police Committee in Parliament earlier this week. Cele also says he wants to bring cash in transit heists to zero. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Bessent tells us more....
Controversial businessman Atul Gupta and the Bank of Baroda have vehemently denied wrongdoing in the alleged Estina dairy corruption scandal. They have taken their fight to the High court in Bloemfontein to oppose a court order to freeze their assets. The more than 220-million rand Vrede farm project was meant to benefit black farmers in the area. Ishmael Modiba reports..
Former senior prosecutor and current DA MP Glynnis Breytenbach and her former lawyer Gerhard Wagenaar have been found not guilty of contravening the NPA act and defeating the ends of justice. Magistrate Brian Nemavhidi delivered the judgment in the Pretoria North Magistrates Court. The state also withdrew fraud and perjury charges against Breytenbach. Maluti Obuseng reports...
The Constitutional court has reserved judgement in a case brought forward by Freedom Under Law, Corruption and Watch and others against the NPA boss Shaun Abrahams. The parties were seeking a confirmation order to the December 8th judgment by the High Court in Pretoria, which declared the appointment of Abrahams as the National Director of Public Persecutions as well as the removal of his predecessor Mxolisi Nxasana as unlawful. Senior political journalist Amos Phago and Abongile Dumako compiled us this report.
The human trafficking division of the Hawks have revealed shocking incidents of human trafficking in the country. The Hawks appeared before the Police committee in Parliament on Wednesday to brief it about progress made on high profile cases. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent was there .......
The newly appointed Police Minister Bheki Cele has warned members of parliament to be careful not to encourage a situation where the people are armed with guns as an excuse of fighting crime and self protection. Making his maiden speech in the National Assembly, Cele was responding to calls by some members of the House for the government to arm citizens in the wake of the spate of the shootings and killings of police officers at Engcobo in the Eastern Cape. Cele made references of the recent similar incidents in the United States of America where ordinary citezens had shot indiscriminately while carrying privately owned firearms. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report.
Market analyst, George Glynos of ETM Analytics (Pty) Ltd looks at South African markets as Rand has been weakening ever since the cabinet reshuffle,a sharp deterioration noted in the Jan trade numbers released yesterday and most important data released yesterday
People of gaModjaji in Limpopo will on Thursday hold celebrations for the recognition of their Queenship Status. This is the first Queenship in South Africa. In 2016, after a long campaign and succession dispute, the Balobedu queen, also known as Queen Modjadji or the Rain Queen, was officially recognised. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Balobedu Queenship spokesperson, Mampuele Phetole..
INTRO: The EFF's political schizophrenia will only harm the people of Nelson Mandela Bay Metro (NMB) in Port Elizabeth. These are the words of the Democratic Alliance responding to threats by the EFF to pass a motion of no confidence in the DA Mayor Athol Trollip. The Leader of the EFF, Julius Malema announced in Parliament on Monday that his party intends to pass this motion against the NMB Mayor, as a form punishment for not voting with them in parliament on the motion of land expropriation without compensation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA Eastern Cape Provincial Leader, Nqaba Bhanga
Investigative journalist, Jaques Pauw, says its absurd that his house in Riebeek Kasteel in the Swartland of the Western Cape was searched by the Hawks. He says members of the hawks linked to the Crimes Against the State Unit arrived at his home with a search warrant. Pauw's blockbuster book - "All the President's Keepers" - was published last year and alleged, among other things, that then President Jacob Zuma received a one million rand a month salary from a benefactor for a few months after becoming president in 2009. Pauw who is a highly respected investigative journalist says he cooperated fully with the Hawks officials. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Hawks spokesperson, Hangwani Mulaudzi
The National Assembly has passed a motion on land expropriation without compensation. It was tabled by the Economic Freedom Fighters for debate. The process will now be taken to the Constitutional Review Committee to look at possibly amending section 25 of the Constitution. Tabling the motion before the house, the EFF called for an urgent amendment of the Constitution to allow land expropriation for the majority of South Africans. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report.
Neglected buildings within the City of Johannesburg will soon be expropriated. The City says they are investigating reports of about 265 buildings alleged to have been hijacked. The Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Cllr Herman Mashaba spoke to Sakina Kamwendo and says it is important that they find new, innovative ways to address the crisis of derelict buildings in the inner city.
Invesment Analyst Nadir Thokan of 27-Four-Investments looks at South African markets as Shoprite results that were released yesterday, where the opportunities lie in the South African banking sector and the current conundrum facing US equities.
Eastern Cape Social Development Department has laid out a new road map in the aftermath of the Ncgobo tragedy. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mzukisi Solani, the spokesperson for the province's Social Development MEC, Nancy Sihlwayi.
The South African Police Service is expected to hold a memorial service for the five police officers killed in the line of duty last week including a defence force member. High profile politicians are expected to join the locals at Ngcobo Methodist Church to remember the fallen security force members. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports,
Market analyst, Analyst Nadir Thokan of 27-Four-Investments looks at South African markets following the cabinet reshuffle by president Cyril Ramaphosa last night ..
There have been mixed reactions from political parties and civil society. Let's now hear form Labour Federations The Congress of South African Trade Unions COSATU and The South African Federation of Trade Unions SAFTU. Elvis Preslin spoke to President of COSATU, Sdumo Dlamini and General Secretary of he South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU), Zwelinzima Vavi.
Analysts and the opposition say President Cyril Ramaphosa's cabinet reshuffle has exposed how fragile his support still is within the ranks of the ANC, or how unwilling he is to deal with corruption. Commentators say moving Bathabile Dlamini to Women in the Presidency and Nomvula Mokonyane to Communications, returning Thulas Nxesi to Public Works, and Malusi Gigaba to Home Affairs among others, are an indication of how much he had to compromise. Elvis Presslin spoke to SACP 1st deputy SG, Solly Maphaila; EFF's Godrich Gardee and Mavuso Msimang of Future SA
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at Asian markets as they rallying nice today, but new US Fed chair speaking later which could shake up equities, Christine Lagarde of the IMF and the ECB warning of more volatility to come and after Ramapostponement, finally we got clarity on the new cabinet.
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27four investments looks at South African as investment case for SA Banks, the announcement in the budget to increase the foreign investment allowance and what that means and what decision we likely to see from Moody’s on SA rating
SABC Senior economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at Asian Markets with some of the key factors that may drive Asian and broader markets this week, possibility of Zi Xingpin being a lifetime president may impact the way investors look at China and investing there and here at home, investors are still digesting the budget.
Over 1 700 out of a total workforce of 1 812 mine workers at Evander Gold Mine in Mpumalanga will soon lose their jobs. As the majority Union in the mine, the National Union Mineworkers (NUM) says it is shocked by these retrenchments at the Pan African Resources owned mine. The union is now calling for what it calls real transformation in the mining industry which emphasises human development, not profits. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Mpumalanga Highveld Regional Secretary, Tshilidzi Mathavha
Investigations into the murders of the five police officers and a retired soldier at eNgcobo Police station, in the Eastern Cape are intensifying. Police say, so far, more than 10 suspects have been arrested while those who managed to escape are currently being sought. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Spokesperson for the Hawks, Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi
The ANC's National Executive Committee on Sunday evening concluded the deployment of people to the party's sub-committees during its special meeting at Irene in Pretoria. More members, who include KZN"s Senzo Mchunu, have been deployed to Luthuli House on a permanent basis. ANC Secretary General Ace Magashule says the meeting didn't discuss the impending cabinet reshuffle nor the issue of the appointment of the deputy president. His comments put to nought speculation that South Africa would have a new cabinet and a new state deputy president by Monday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke political analyst, Ralph Mathekga
Izinduna in Gauteng say suggestions to do away with the Ingonyama Trust is an insult to Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini and the entire Zulu nation. They have threated to defend it and protect their land with all they have. IFP leader, Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi recently raised the issue during the State of the Nation debate in parliament. Izinduna gathered at Kwa Mai Mai in Johannesburg at the weekend to express their feelings about the land issue. SABC senior reporter, Thabile Mbhele reports...
Prosecutors involved in former president Jacob Zuma's corruption case have until Friday to finalize their decision as to whether or not to prosecute him. National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shaun Abrahams, gave prosecutors a Friday deadline to provide him with their recommendations on the long-standing matter. Zuma submitted his representations to the NPA last month as to why he should not be prosecuted. This follows a court ruling which set aside a 2009 decision by former acting NPA boss, Mokotedi Mpshe, to drop charges against him. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Criminal Law Lecturer at the School of Law of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Khulekani Khumalo.
Immigration officials on Thursday raided the offices of the former Gupta-owned ANN7 television station in Midrand. The Department of Home Affairs last night confirmed the raid saying they wanted to verify information brought to their attention relating to visas and work permits of certain ANN7 employees. The company was owned by the embattled Gupta family before former government spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi assumed ownership. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Home Affairs Director General, Mkuseli Apleni...
Market analyst, George Glynos of ETM Analytics looks at South African markets as ratings agencies have given SA a thumbs up, earlier in the week CPI fell to below the 4.5% midpoint of the inflation target range and reading into the weekend and whether in particular that the markets will be on the lookout for
Ashburton Investments Senior Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Asian markets as big day is behind us and we all survived, another commodity company that is generating massive cash and not so great news for JSE and challenges that they have had to face
Market analyst, George Glynos of ETM Analytics looks at South African markets as ETM does not seem pleased with the budget outcome, did the market respond as favourably as it did with the ZAR appreciating and bond yields dropping
Police Minister Fikile Mbalula has assured the community of Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape that their police station will be upgraded to ensure their safety. Mbalula has been addressing members of the SAPS and the community outside the police station following the killing of five police officers and a retired soldier by unknown gunmen wearing balaclavas on Wednesday morning. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Fundiswa Mhlekude
Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba says the revenue shortfall of R50bn came in marginally lower at R48 billion for 2017/18. Gigaba has added that the shortfall still reflects poor economic outlook and challenges at revenue organisation, SARS. The question many are asking is whether SARS will live up to the challenge of collecting an additional R36 billion in revenue from tax increases. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Group Executive for Research at SARS, Dr Randall Carolissen....
The contentious issue of labour brokers will now play out in the Constitutional Court. The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) is approaching to the Constitutional Court to argue against what they call slave traders. The Union says it wants to shutdown labour brokers accusing them systematically abusing vulnerable workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUMSA's National Spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola....
A 32 year old Sangoma, Thokozani Msibi believed to be from Swaziland, has appeared at Witbank Magistrate in Mpumalanga facing charges of murder, kidnapping and violation of a corpse. He was arrested early this week, in connection with the kidnapping of two children, one of then living with albinism at Kwaguqa near Emalahleni. It is suspected that the motive behind the killing was for muti purposes. SABC Reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi Reports.
Transnet will manufacture 500 passenger trains for Zimbabwe in Ekurhuleni, after it sourced the first 20 from Brazil Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Transport Minister Joe Maswanganyi have unveiled a 400million dollar revitalisation project between Transnet and the National Railways of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo . The rail infrastructure was one of the first projects that President Emmerson Mnangagwa hailed pleaded for investment in following his inauguration. Nthakoana Ngatane reports:
Political parties in Parliament have expressed mixed views on Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba's maiden budget speech. Many aren't happy with the one percent VAT increase as Mercedes Besent reports..
Consumers will face rising costs following a decision by government to introduce an increase in VAT and a hike in fuel levy from April. Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba announced an increase in VAT from 14 percent to 15 percent from the 1st of April. He says new tax measures to increase VAT and personal income tax will raise an additional 36 billion rand in 2018/19. Government will also introduce spending cuts amounting to 85 billion rand through re-allocations. Tshepo Mongoai reports.
Market analyst, Wayne Mccurrie of Ashburton Investments looks at Asian markets ahead of most important budget in the new south Africa, MMI group earnings down again and Adcock Ingram's very good results.
Market analyst, George Glynos of ETM Analytics looks at South African markets as ETM has scored the budgets over the past five years at no more than 4 or 5 out of 10, ultimately sort of stance do you expect from the budget and finally from the budget we have the latest CPI data to look forward to...
Portfolio Committee on Public Accounts SCOPA, has recommended the immediate suspension of HoD of Health in the North West, Dr. Thabo Lekalakala for making a pre-payment of 30 MILLION rand to a Gupta-linked company MEDIOSA. Lekalakala, who the Treasury found that he bended rules in awarding a 180 million rand to MEDIOSA company has also conceded that he enjoyed a 4 day all-expenses paid trip to INDIA which he admitted to have forget to declare to the MEC. He, and MEC flanked by senior managers appeared before SCOPA, where he admitted the trip were authorised by Premier Supra Mahumapelo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Lucas Mothibedi...
Political parties in Parliament expect Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba to strike a delicate balancing act between government's spending priorities and the burgeoning budget deficit. Gigaba is expected to table the budget speech in parliament at 2 o'clock on Wednesday. This comes as opposition parties have been calling for Gigaba's sacking accusing him of failing to ensure financial stability at State Owned Enterprises that fall under Treasury. Lulama Matya
President Cyril Ramphosa has described the Marikana tragedy as the darkest moment in South Africa's young democracy. He also says the Life Esdimeni tragedy is the most appalling dereliction by the state to its people. He was replying to the Joint SONA debate. He also told MPs that young White South Africans still have better opportunities than their young Black counterparts. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more.....
Police in the Eastern Cape have confirmed that at least 6 police officers have been killed after gunmen attacked the police station in the small town of Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape. Police say the alleged attackers came into the police station after 11 pm last night and locked some of the officers in a room. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Khaya Tonjeni
Market analyst, Wayne McCurrie looks at Asian Markets in the midst of Lunar New Year holiday and the day before finance minister, Malusi Gigaba's much anticipated budget speech
Market analyst, George Glynos of ETM Analytics looks at SA markets ahead of the budget Fitch has indicated that the improved growth outlook since Ramaphosa took control, the Budget due to be released on Wednesday and SARB's leading indicator for Dec released
This year's budget speech by Minister, Malusi Gigaba is expected to be one of the hardest he has yet had to address. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Faith Ngwenya, technical executive at the South African institute for professional accountants who says it is a daunting task for Gigaba to try and budget what we as the country have available to us
A man who has turned state witness in a murder case involving 14 men from Marikana near Rustenburg in the North West, has told the North West High Court sitting in Mogwase that there are many people who were involved in Petrus Sabata 's murder in 2016. The 14, including community activist Napoleon Webster, are facing murder charges. Sabata was hacked to death with knives and spears in Marikana four years ago, allegedly over the allocation of RDP houses. Bafedile Moerane reports
More ANC branches in KwaZulu-Natal have made their voices heard following the recall of Jacob Zuma as President of the country. Some branches from the KwaDukuza, Abaqulusi and Musa Dladla regions have condemned the manner in which the ANC NEC handled the recall. During the weekend NEC members were deployed to various regions of the province to communicate the decision to recall Zuma. Vusi Khumalo reports.
The interim Leader of Zimbabwe opposition MDC-T Nelson Chamisa has appealed for tolerance as the party bids farewell to its late founder Morgan Tsvangirai. Chamisa - one of three vice presidents who have been jostling for power since Tsvangirai fell ill, spoke at the memorial service at Freedom Square in Harare. Opposition leaders in South Africa also paid tribute. Nthakoana Ngatane reports
Interpol has been roped-in to track down Atul and Tony Gupta. Ajay Gupta has been declared a fugitive from justice.This after he failed to hand himself over, despite his lawyers confirming to the Hawks that he will do so.He has since disappeared. The Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula has also issued a warning discouraging people from offering a reward for the arrest of the Gupta brothers. At the same time, Forensic Fraud Examiner, Paul O'Sullivan, who is one of the people who made a reward offer, says he is in a process of suing the police and justice ministries for a hundred and ninety five million rand for what he calls the "Zupta deployees" in the police, the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Forensic Fraud Examiner, Paul O'Sullivan and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Police, Vuyo Mhaga...
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie Looks at Asia Markets following a watershed week for SA and some Asian markets remain closed for the Lunar new year
Police Minister Fikile Mbalula says Interpol has been asked to help track down three people who are being sought in connection with the Estina farm project in the Free State. Eight associates of the Gupta brothers appeared in court in Bloemfontein last week on charges that include fraud and money laundering for their part in the project. Mbalula says the three are being sought in China, Dubai China and India. Joseph Mosia reports...
Police in Mpumalanga have been called upon to intervene in gang wars in Barberton. Schools have been turned into battle grounds as rival gangs clash. Residents of Barberton and learners of KaMhola Secondary School on Sunday held a funeral service for a 17 year-old learner killed in a gang-related incident. Eric Lubisi compiled this report..
Director & Head of Analytics at ETM Analytics (Pty) Ltd, George Glynos looks at South African Markets following a watershed week for SA with an equally important week ahead for the economy, key releases in the form of CPI and the leading indicators and judicial review of the mining charter that was due to begin today on hold
The mother of the late Zimbabwe opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has reportedly threatened to commit suicide if Nelson Chamisa, the Movement for Democratic Change vice president who says he's taken over from her son, attends the funeral. Power struggles within the MDC are intensifying following Tsvangirai's death on Wednesday in Johannesburg after a two year struggle with colon cancer. A memorial service was held on Sunday for the late opposition leader. SABC reporter in Harare, Ephet Musekiwa
Former president, Thabo Mbeki has urged the newly inaugurated president, Cyril Ramaphosa to cleanse the ANC and reposition it not to be used for corrupt activities. Mbeki was speaking to the SABC on the sidelines of the swearing-in of Ramaphosa by Chief Justice Moegeng Moegeng on Thursday at the Cape Town Office of the Presidency, Tuynhuys. Ramaphosa is expected to deliver his maiden State of the Nation Address on Friday evening following his election by the National Assembly. Former president, Thabo Mbeki spoke to SABC journalist, Mbali Sibanyoni
Economists have expressed confidence that president Cyril Ramaphosa will be able to remove investor impediments and inspire economic growth. It's believed if the fight against corruption, clean governance and policy certainty are prioritised, the country could attract investments which could ease many socio economic challenges. Tshepo Mongoai reports .
Cyril Ramaphosa has been elected the President of South Africa after weeks of turmoil that saw former President Jacob Zuma resign his position on Wednesday night. In his acceptance speech Ramaphosa promised among other things to work with opposition parties as he had started to do as Deputy President. He has also committed himself to put South Africa's interests at the top of his agenda. Joseph Mosia reports...
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to outline his plan to fight corruption when he delivers the State-of-the-Nation-Address in the National Assembly this evening. For the first time in almost a decade someone other than former president Jacob Zuma will walk on the red carpet to the doors of the Parliament to deliver the address. Roads mostly in the Cape Town DBD will be closed from six o'clock this morning to accommodate the address. Zuma was due to deliver the address last Thursday. However, National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete postponed it because of increased opposition to Zuma's leadership and mounting calls for the ANC National Executive Committee to recall him. Elvis Presslin spoke to political analyst at University of Johannesburg's Confucius Institute, Dr David Monyae
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at Asian Markets as some Asian markets are down for the Lunar New Year, the JSE had an amazing roll and the euphoria is over and if there's a lot of work that needs to be done
City of Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille narrowly survived a motion of no-confidence against her held on Thursday. She earlier walked out of the council meeting in protest after the speaker ruled that voting would take place through an open ballot. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Western Cape Provincial Leader, Bonginkosi Madikizela
Nelson Chamisa was elected by an emergency meeting of the party's National Executive Council in Harare to lead the party for 6-months Chamisa is the interim President of Zimbabwe's opposition MDC-T following leader Morgan Tsvangirai's death on Wednesday. Meanwhile president Cyril Ramaphosa and former President Thabo Mbeki have also sent their condolences to the Tsvangirai family and the people of Zimbabwe. Nthakoana Ngatane reports
Political parties and civil society organisations are welcoming last night's resignation of former president Jacob Zuma. Announcing his resignation, Zuma maintained he has always been a good cadre of the ANC and was willingly resigning without the fear of losing presidential pecks and benefits. For reaction on some of the comments during his address on Wednesday night. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Future SA's Mavuso Msimang
Political parties across the spectrum have welcomed Jacob Zuma's resignation. The ruling ANC says Zuma's decision shows he's a dedicated member of the party. Opposition parties say they hope this marks the beginning a of a new era away from the corruption and state capture that came to characterise his tenure. Joseph Mosia reports.
The High Court in Cape Town has ordered the speaker of the City of Cape Town Council to exercise his discretion in deciding whether a vote of no confidence in Mayor Patricia de Lille should be held in secret. Judge Robert Henney says the speaker should also consider that not all councillors in the DA caucus support the motion. He says the speaker should note that all members are free to vote with their conscience. A motion in De Lille will be debated in council on Thursday. Chris Mabuya reports..
Political parties across the spectrum have welcomed Jacob Zuma's resignation. The ruling ANC says Zuma's decision shows he's a dedicated member of the party. Opposition parties say they hope this marks the beginning a of a new era away from the corruption and state capture that came to characterise his tenure. Sakin Kamwendo spoke to SABC senior journalist, Mercedes Bessent....
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba talks Asian markets as the eagerly anticipated US consumer inflation number came out, some of the Asians are doing the Lunar New Year and how has that affected trade in the region and markets react to resignation by president, Jacob Zuma
Political Analyst, Zamikhaya Maseti says former President Jacob Zuma's resignation speech was confusing and poorly planned.Maseti says Zuma's introduction sounded as somebody who was ready to challenge his party for recalling him but at the end it he announced his resignation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches, Bishop Malusi Mpumlwana
President, Jacob Zuma has announced in a televised statement that he is stepping down as the country's leader. Zuma's resignation comes hours after the ANC NEC earlier in the day said they would be tabling a vote of no confidence against him in parliament after he initially refused to heed their call to step down. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to lecturer at the University of Cape Town's School of Law Kgomotso Moshikaro who says the interim period between now and the next elections has no effect of the two terms due to be served by the new state president.
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at South African markets as investment case for Mondi, US inflation numbers coming out and Zuma's decision to decision
Opposition parties want the motion of no confidence in president Jacob Zuma brought forward or they will go to court. The parties also want parliament to be dissolved and a new election called. This is part of the agreement reached when the parties met in parliament on Monday. Joseph Mosia reports
The United Nations has expressed its grave concern over allegations against four SANDF peacekeepers who stand accused of sexual exploitation and abuse in addition to a separate case of physical violence perpetrated against a 17-year old boy in the DRC. The UN also welcomed a statement by the SANDF that a formal investigation has been instituted and that an investigating team has been dispatched the region. South Africa has in the region of 1200 troops serving in the UN's largest and long-running peacekeeping missions in the world. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
As Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille challenges her party in the High Court on Tuesday to allow the use of secret ballots in the motion of no-confidence in her, our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reflects on De Lille as a Member of Parliament, and what the future hold for her.
Illegal miners have caused about 800-million rand in damage to the sewerage network in the cash-strapped Matjhabeng Municipality in Welkom in the Free State. Mayor Nkosinjani Speelman says the illegal miners - known as Zama Zamas - use sewage water to separate gold from gold-bearing rocks. In order to get the water, they are destroying the sewerage system in Thabong. The community has also been living in fear as Zama Zamas have been engaging in gun battles in their quest for the most gold. Maryna van Wyk reports....
The State in the Henri van Breda axe murder case has submitted to the High Court in Cape Town that Van Breda be found guilty as charged. Susan Galloway argued that circumstantial evidence is so overwhelming that Van Breda is the one who attacked and killed his mother, father, brother and attempted to kill his sister at their Stellenbosch home in 2015. Galloway submitted to Judge Siraj Desai that Van Breda went further and misled the police during their investigation. Thandiswa Mawu reports...
Opposition parties want the motion of no confidence in president Jacob Zuma brought forward or they will go to court. The parties also want parliament to be dissolved and a new election called. This is part of the agreement reached when the parties met in parliament on Monday. Joseph Mosia reports...
The ANC will hold a media briefing at twelve noon, at which it's expected to formally announce the decisions taken by its NEC on President Jacob Zuma's future. The briefing follows the marathon meeting held by the party's National Executive committee in Irene outside Pretoria last night, where the NEC decided to call for a motion of no confidence in the president. Party president Cyril Ramaphosa and Secretary General Ace Magashule were sent to Zuma's official residence to ask him to step down. Some reports have said he asked for a further three months in office.
The ANC together with the SACP in Guateng have both distanced themselves from a group calling itself the #ZumaMustGoNow campaign which is pushing for a national shutdown today*. The group is urging all South Africans, including the police and the media, not to report for work today. It has also called on learners not to go to school. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National convener of the "ZumaMUSTGO march, Hangwi Maumela who says they are not afraid of any possible action taken against them. He says the ANC can't discipline them when it has failed to discipline Zuma.
The ANC together with the SACP in Gauteng have both distanced themselves from a group calling itself the #ZumaMustGoNow campaign which is pushing for a national shutdown today*. The group is urging all South Africans, including the police and the media, not to report for work today. It has also called on learners not to go to school. National convener of the "ZumaMUSTGO march, Hangwi Maumela says they are not afraid of any possible action taken against them. He says the ANC can't discipline them when it has failed to discipline Zuma. We get reaction from ANC
- A leaked recorded conversation between a Miway sales rep and King Goodwill Zwelithini has been doing the rounds on social media. -JusticeForNkosinathiNkomo
- Chicco Twala calls on speedy investigation into Senzo Meyiwa case
National Police Commissioner, General Kehla Sitole, says pronouncement on the imminent arrest of IPID Head, Robbert McBride are premature, as investigations against him are still underway. Sithole says they are aware of reports that McBride will be arrested this week. He says police are pushing concocted charges against McBride, this to protect former acting National Police Commissioner, Kgomotso Phahlane who last week was charged with corruption. Here's a report by Lucas Mothibedi...
ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa has appealed to the membership of his party to draw inspiration from the wisdom of late struggle icon, Nelson Mandela when they confront the issue of the future of president Jacob Zuma as head of state. Speaking outside the Grand Parade, from the same balcony where Nelson Mandela spoke, after his release from Victor Verster prison in 1990, Ramaphosa told thousands of the party faithful that Zuma's exit should be handled with care. Senior Political Reporter, Amos Phago reports.
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Asian markets as USA and world markets in free fall again in a possible continuation from last Friday, US government now officially shut down after Senate did not pass bill to allow expenditure and logistics company onelogic released results...
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at South African markets as the bleeding doesn't seem to be ending, the rand fairs and the budget speech expected to take place on 21 Feb and speculation is rife that Finance minister, Malusi Gigaba will fill the hole in government finances
The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) and the department of Social Development have come under fire for asking the Constitutional Court for a six month extension of its contract with Cash Paymasters Services (CPS). This, after the court ruled in 2014 that the contract Sassa signed with CPS in 2012 was illegal and invalid. COSATU has called on minister Bathabile Dlamini to be released from her responsibilities with immediate effect.The department of Social Development and the agency were given until March 31, 2018 to find a new provider to administer the grants. Sakina Kamwedo spoke to the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Zoleka Capa who says giving CPS an extension is not a good idea at all
Opposition parties in parliament are planning a meeting among themselves on Monday to discuss the possibility of bringing forward the date for the vote of no-confidence against President Jacob Zuma. Political analyst, Moeletsi Mbeki says if the ANC leadership followed what the Constitution of South Africa says about how to remove the President of the Republic of South Africa, it wouldn't have put itself in this current standoff. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Residents of Makeneng in Qwaqwa in the eastern Free State have taken to the streets again. They have barricaded roads with stones and burning tyres following the killing of a 22-year-old man yesterday. The deceased was hit by a stray bullet when police allegedly shot at the protesting crowd. Schools are still closed as learners have returned home. Listener, Lazurus told Sakina Kamwendo that the situation remains tense....
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Asian market as Sappi quarterly results releases, a tale of three countries but a good result overall for Spar sales figures, UK and brexit and Bitcoin price has collapsed and U.S. securities exchange commission announces that they are going to investigate regulating crypto currencies....
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at South African markets as the rand feels the effects of political limbo and good news in mining sector as miners to be paid off for silicosis
The Association for Rural Advancement says it supports recommendations made by a parliamentary High-Level Panel that wants 3 million hectares of land owned by the Ingonyama Trust Board to be transferred to the state. The panel chaired by former president Kgalema Motlanthe found that the Ingonyama Act of 1994 must be repealed or amended because the majority of people on that land do not benefit from revenue generated by leases. Cassandra Zungu compiled this report.
In an unprecedented move, the presiding officers of Parliament have postponed this year's State of the Nation Address - that was scheduled for Thursday. National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete says they took the decision because of concerns about the developments surrounding SONA and possible disruption of the event as it has happened over the past four years. Lulama Matya reports
National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete has announced that the State of the Nation Address, which was due to be delivered on Thursday, has been postponed. She says parliament concluded that it was unlikely that the speech would take place without any disruptions. Mbete indicated that as Parliament was preparing to write to President Jacob Zuma to request the postponement of his address, he was also requesting a postponement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo; EFF Chairperson, Advocate Dali Mpofu ,Constitutional law expert, Khomotso Moshikaro
A group of Grade-12 learners at Pitso-Letlhogile school at Phaposane village outside Vryburg in the North West were allegedly forced to take contraceptives last week. The learners SABC spoke to say nurses came into the school and administered pregnancy tests. Those who were not pregnant were forcefully injected with a contraceptive that lasts for eight weeks. Those who tried to protest against the injection were told they either behave as grown-up women or they are hiding something. Sisi Segalo compiled this report...
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at South African markets following market mayhem leading to the rebound in US and Asia stocks, market reaction to the SONA postponement, transformation in the banking sector as Fani Tito appointed a joint CEO and the January business confidence index...
ANC's National Working Committee has resolved to call for an urgent special NEC meeting on Wednesday, a day before the State of the Nation Address. This follows a meeting of the party's NWC with its top six officials discussing the future of President Jacob Zuma at Luthuli House last night. Zuma is reported to have declined requests for him to step down at another meeting that was help at residence, Mahlaba Ndlopfu in Pretoria on Sunday. Opposition parties have meanwhile been calling for the removal of Zuma before the State-of-the-Nation-Address scheduled on Thursday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC senior reporter, Tshepo Ikaneng and political analyst, Ralph Mathekga
The Public Servants Association (PSA) has expressed outrage saying they are shocked that an institution that is entangled in allegations of corruption and maladministration like ESKOM could be bailed out with worker's pensions. This follows yesterday's decision by the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) to help the beleaguered power utility with a R5 billion bridging facility. The PIC, on behalf of the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), advanced the loan to fund Eskom's operations for one month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Manager for PSA, Irvin Fredericks
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Asian Markets after big fall in share markets world wide was triggered by last Friday's wage inflation data out of USA, markets down between 3 to 5%. What can we expect and very good sea harvest maiden results
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at the SA markets in the wake of global market sells, can we enjoy lower fuel price on sustained basis and SACCI business confidence index is out today...
Contentious issues around the upcoming State of the Nation Address will come under the spotlight on Tuesday when the Presiding Officers of Parliament hold a meeting with political parties represented in the National Assembly. Some of the opposition parties are hoping that the meeting will resolve their concerns around who will deliver the State of the Nation Address on Thursday. However, Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo says the Speaker wants to brief them about SONA preparations. Lulama Matya reports..
Ten suspects have been shot dead and three others were injured in three separate shootouts with the police in KwaZulu-Natal. Six suspects were killed at Mpophomeni, outside Pietermaritzburg, in the Kwazulu Natal midlands. Three other suspects were killed on the N3 near Marianhill Toll Plaza, in Durban. One other suspect was shot dead at Mvuzane area in Clermont, West of Durban in an unrelated incident. Fanele Mhlongo reports..
Cape Town mayor Patricia de Lille is questioning the timing of allegations of bribery leveled against her. The Mayor has accused her own party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), of tainting her name by clutching at anything. This follows reports that the Party has opened a criminal case against The Mayor. Fresh allegations have emerged that she tried to solicit 5-million rand bribe from businessman, Anthony Faul, five years ago. Thandiswa Mawu reports....
SABC Senior Economics reporter, Nompumelelo Siziba looks at SA markets following good job numbers out in the US, global markets appearing to experience massive declines last Friday, particularly in the US, Bitcoin losing its shine and social and press articles continue to be abuzz with speculation about President Zuma...
The ANC's National Working Committee is expected to hold an urgent meeting today to discuss President Jacob Zuma's future. The meeting follows, last night's party top 6 meeting held at President Zuma's official home in Pretoria. It is understood that the top officials met with Zuma to discuss his departure from office. Reports this morning say, President Zuma has refused to resign. For more on this we are now joined by our reporter following this story, Noma Bolani..
African People's Convention has called on the National Executive Council of the ANC to pressurise President Jacob Zuma to resign from his positions as soon as possible for the sake of stability in the country. National Chairperson of the APC Enerst Hlathi said this yesterday at the memorial lecture of the late Robert Sobukwe held in Molorwe village outside Rustenburg in North West. The National Executive Commitee of the ANC is expected to meet President Jacob Zuma today to decide his fate...Zebilon Maine reports.
The Khoi and the San people will soon have a bible in their own language known as Xun in less than a decade to come. With the help of the Bible Society South Africa, a group of the Khoi and San from across the continent are currently translating the holy book. The translations are currently taking place at Platfontein near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report ....
Today, marks two years since the Lily mine disaster struck, leaving three mine workers trapped underground at Louville in Mpumalanga. Trade union, the Association for Mineworkers and Construction Union- AMCU- will hold a commemorative event at Lily mine in remembrance of that tragic day. Eric Lubisi has more...
Zulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini has warned that his people will vigorously defend their land against those who think they can easily expropriate it. His Majesty addressed the Democratic Alliance delegation led by party leader Mmusi Maimane at Osuthu palace in KwaNongoma north of KwaZulu-Natal. This was the maiden visit by the DA to his Majesty. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports...
Gauteng residents are being warned NOT to send bottled water to drought stricken CapeTown. The Water and Sanitation Department says the charitable act will put Gauteng's own water supply at risk. Various Gauteng communities have been donating water bottles and tanks that will be sent to Cape Town which faces running out of water entirely by 16th April. Meanwhile organisations helping Gauteng residents collect water supplies have called on residents not to stop donating despite the warning. We speak to Water and Sanitation department spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau.
The first part of the Life Esidimeni arbitration hearings have come to an end. Next week legal arguments and the deliberations by the arbitrator will take place. 144 mental patients died when Gauteng Health Department decided to terminate the contract they had with Life Esidimeni and move patients to illegal NGO's. Has this arbitration process given any meaning to the families of the deceased? We speak to Nomvula Nonjabe, She speaks on behalf of the Families of the deceased.
All Sibanye gold mineworkers who were trapped underground for more than a day following a power cut at the Sibanye Beatrix mine near Theunissen in the Free State have been rescued. The last group of almost a thousand miners were brought to surface just after 6 this morning. Earlier, angry family members of the trapped miners demanded answers. They claim the mine management has done little to inform them about the latest developments. At least 955 mineworkers have been trapped undergound since Wednesday evening following violent storm which caused power outage at four shafts.
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Absa manufacturing index up to 49 points from 44 in January. Glencore Production report, and SONA, Who will deliver and will it matter?
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has described the deaths of 144 mentally ill patients in the Life Esidimeni tragedy as one of the the most painful events in post-apartheid South Africa. Motsoaledi was overcome by emotions as he apologised to the affected families at the end of his testimony at the arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg yesterday. Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Health MEC Gwen Ramokgopa also apologised and committed to fix the health system during their testimony on Wednesday. As Wisani Makhubele reports, Minister Motsoaledi was the last witness to give evidence as the arbitration will now move to the next stage
Multichoice has announced that it will not be renewing its contract with news channel ANN7 when it expires in August this year. The announcement follows ICASA's confirmation that it is conducting an investigation into alleged payments made by Multichoice to the SABC and ANN7. The pay-TV provider faced criticism for questionable payments to the tune of 141-million rand annually to ANN7. Naledi Ngcobo reports
Eskom head of generation Matshela Koko says he's determined to clear his name. He's taken to Twitter, to confirm his suspension after receiving a letter with fresh charges last night. Last Friday Koko won a Labour Court application preventing Eskom from firing him. Since the new board took over about two weeks ago, several Eskom executives have resigned or are being suspended. Yesterday, Chief Information Officer, Sean Maritz, was suspended pending an investigation into his dealings with consulting firm McKinsey.
Communication Workers' Union (CWU), general-secretary Aubrey Tshabalala says pay TV giant MultiChoice's decision to dump ANN7 has a negative impact on staff of the 24-hour television news channel. MultiChoice announced yesterday that it would not renew ANN7's contract when it expired in August. The CWU, which represents more than half the employees at the channel formerly owned by the controversial Guptas, says there's anxiety among ANN7 employees. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CWU general secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala
President Jacob Zuma's lawyers have confirmed that their client has met the National Prosecuting Authority's deadline and submitted representations on why he should not be prosecuted for fraud and corruption. They say the representations were made late last night. The representations were initially supposed to be submitted in November 2017, but National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams extended the deadline to January the 31st, 2018. A ruling of the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the application of Zuma and the NPA to appeal a high court ruling that the decision of the then NPA boss Mokotedi Mpshe to drop the corruption charges against him was irrational. Abraham has given prosecutors two weeks in which to consider Zuma's representations. Thereafter he will decide whether to proceed with charging Zuma or not.
ETM Analytics Chief Economist, George Glynos looks at a R15.7bn surplus for Dec and record R80.6bn surplus for the year, the Fed left rates unchanged, NAAMSA vehicle sales and the Barclays Manufacturing PMI and Venezuela appears to be in the midst of another unfolding crisis, SA should pay attention to a good example of how NOT to manage an economy?
- Pres Jacob Zuma submitting representations on why he should not be prosecuted for fraud and corruption.
- Multichoice announces they will remove the ANN7 TV channel from the DStv bouquet. -Marvel superhero movie #BlackPanther, which has been dubbed as one of the most anticipated movies of 2018, Premiers in Los Angeles.
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has described the deaths of 144 mentally ill patients in the Life Esidimeni tragedy as one of the the most painful events in postapartheid South Africa. Motsoaledi was overcome by emotions as he apologised to the affected families at the end of his testimony at the arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg yesterday. Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Health MEC Gwen Ramokgopa also apologised and committed to fix the health system during their testimoneis yesterday. As Wisani Makhubele reports, Minister Motsoaledi was the last witness to give evidence as the arbitration will now move to the next stage......
Portfolio Manager at Ashburton Investments, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Asian Markets with massive cash flows and massive profit growth at Merafe resources and perfect storm and a tale of two halves for Spur....
Parliament's Standing Committee on Finance says it expects the various South African regulatory bodies to co-operate with other regulators in Germany and the Netherlands who are currently investigating Steinhoff. The German authorities are currently investigating Steinhoff for alleged accounting irregularities. The JSE, Reserve Bank and Financial Services Board are among the South African regulatory and statutory bodies that will appear before a joint parliamentary committee along with Steinhoff today. We speak to Finance Committee Chairperson Yunus Carrim.
Former Prasa CEO Lucky Montana has revealed damming evidence against various prominent people with business and political influence. Among those implicated are one of the Gupta brothers, President Jacob Zuma's son Duduzane, former Treasurer General Zweli Mkhize, Former Transport Minister Dipuo Peters and various prominent business people who allegedly had links with the Guptas. He also told the committee that Deputy Public Enterprises Minister Ben Martins was not telling the truth about a meeting with one of the Gupta brothers, Tony. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more.
Capitec CEO Gerrie Fourie has accused Viceroy Research Group of beng driven by profit motives in what the bank calls a one-sided and factually incorrect report. Viceroy released a report yesterday labelling Capitec a loan shark that must be placed under curatorship. Fourie has questioned the motive and timing of the Viceroy report. Capitec Bank has about nine milion active clients. Thandiswa Mawu reports ...
The Gauteng government says it's not true that the provincial Health Department was pressured by the provincial and national treasury to cut costs. Former Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and former HOD Barney Selebano told the arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg that the decision to terminate the long-standing contract with Life Esidimeni was necessitated by budgetary constraints. However, during their testimonies yesterday, both Gauteng Premier David Makhura and his Finance MEC Barbara Creecy disputed that version. They expressed their regret and also apologised for the deaths of 144 mentally ill patients, who lost their lives after they were transferred to unlicensed NGOs. Wisani Makhubele has more.....
Chief Economist at ETM Analytics, George Glynos looks at South African markets as blame games and crisis talk about Cape Town and Eskom continue and intra-day data in the form of money supply and the latest government finance figures
Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Gauteng Finance MEC Barbara Creecy are expected to take a stand at the Life Esidimeni inquiry. A few days ago, former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu allegedly implicated the Premier in being part of the decision to terminate the Life Esidimeni contract and move patients to NGO's. It was later found that those NGO's were illegal and that 144 patients died under the care of the NGO's. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to General Secretary of the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), Anele Yawa...
A construction worker was buried alive inside a trench he was digging when soil caved-in on top of him at a shopping mall under construction in Giyani, Limpopo on Monday afternoon. Two others suffered suspected multiple fractures and have been taken to Nkhensani hospital in Giyani. The workers were preparing a trench where sewerage pipes will be laid when the incident happened. The construction was closed after the incident. The bereaved family has been traumatised by the incident. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Senior Reporter, Jabulani Baloi for the latest
Officials from the Hawks have refuted media reports over the imminent arrest of the Gupta brothers and their associates. The crime busting unit is investigating at least seven cases which are now at an advanced stage. Some of these reported high profile cases include Atul Gupta's alleged offer of ministerial positions to former deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas and former ANC MP Vytjie Mentor. Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane is also alleged to be the number one accused for allegedly masterminding the diversion 220-million rand which was meant to benefit poor farmers at the Vrede Diary farm project in the Free State.
Water and Sanitation minister, Nomvula Mokonyane has applauded some of the farmers who have offered to avail water from their properties to help with the water crisis in Cape Town. Mokonyane spoke in Newlands where she was addressing the Cape Town Press Club. This comes as Day Zero is looming. SABC senior journalist, Mercedes Besent...
Two people have been fatally electrocuted along the Metrorail's central line between Khayelitsha and Cape Town in the Western Cape. This as operations along the line remain suspended following the death of a security guard three weeks ago. Metro-rail Western Cape spokesperson, Riana Scott warns that high-voltage cables remain active on the Khayelistha-Bishop Lavis line despite the suspension of train services. Meanwhile police have arrested three men in connection with alleged cable theft. Scott urges community members to continue to provide tip-offs to curb the on-going damage to infrastructure.
President Jacob Zuma is attending the African Union summit in Ethiopia. The meeting comes at a time when the continent is reviewing how it deals with external partners to ensure Africa's priorities are achieved. Coletta Wanjohi reports from Ethiopia:
ETM Analytics Chief Economist, George Glynos gives us an updated perspective on the SA economy, which are the main ones to look out for?
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Eskom will be publishing its delayed interim results with funders seemingly satisfied, is future at Eskom looking brighter?
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Noose closing in on corruption, will this offer a boost to sentiment?
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ZAR strength has characterized Jan 2018, is all the good news priced in yet?
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie. looks at Rand at 11.88, Net asset value up 5% in Euro. What is the discount to underlying investments and whether a downgrade can be avoided
Former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu says her resignation was an acknowldegement that things had gone horribly wrong in the hurried transfer of mentally ill patients to NGOs. Although Mahlangu says she takes political responsibility, she has accused senior departmental officials of misleading her. Mahlangu however came under fire for not taking heed of the red flags raised by experts and interest groups. The former MEC has been facing questions at the Life Esidimeni arbitration hearings in Johannesburg over the deaths of 143 psychiatric patients.Wisani Makhubele reports
Former Acting CEO and Group Executive for Generation at Eskom, Matshela Koko has told the Eskom Parliamentary inquiry that he has never met any of the Gupta brothers. He also refuted claims that his trip to Dubai in January 2016 was paid for by Gupta owned company- SAHARA Computers. During the Inquiry Koko had an opportunity to view a video by Carte Blanche which had interviewed him on the Optimum-Tegeta coal deal with Eskom. As our our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports, - Koko says he does not have any intention to resign........
Aphiwe Honono looks at the days trending topics.
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Nadir Thokan of Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at South African inflation numbers that came out yesterday, Richemont’s decision to buy Yoxx Net A Porter and the significant Rand strength that we’ve witnessed.
-Tributes continue to pour in for Jazz Legend, Bra Hugh Masekela. -Mbuyiseni Ndlozi named most Influential Young South African for 2017. -Mary J Blige gets two Oscar Nominations.
Brand South Africa CEO, Dr Kingsley Makhubela has called for Africa and emerging markets to shape their own future. Makhubela, together with a high powered delegation from different sectors of the economy are in Davos, Switzerland where Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa is promoting the country as being stable and open for business. This is hoped to attract foreign investment opportunities in order to boost the country's economic growth. Makhubela however says in order for Africa to secure its own share of global economic growth, it must trade and do business with itself.
Another Eskom Senior Executive has resigned. Prish Govender who worked as Eskom's acting HR Head, was under investigation relating to the Trillian and Mckinsey saga. Govender resigned a day after Anoj Singh, who was the Chief Financial Officer of Eskom quit under a cloud. Are we likely to see more resignations at Eskom? To help us answer that, we speak to the Managing Director at EE Publishing, Chris Yelland.
Parliament's Evidence Leader in the Eskom Inquiry Nthuthuzelo Vanara says former Eskom CFO Anoj Singh is not telling the committee the truth about who arranged and paid for his trip and accommodation to Dubai in December 2015. This comes as Singh's evidence contradicted the evidence presented by Vanara. Singh claims that the trip was paid for by an acquaintance from the United Arab Emirates while Vanara revealed the opposite. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent who has been monitoring the proceedings, - tells us that Singh also apologised towards the end of the inquiry which lasted until the early hours of this morning
The United States has joined global commemorations for the late Legendary jazz musician and activist Hugh Masekela. Masekela, who developed his musical talents in New York after being forced to flee South Africa in the 1960s also left his mark on the US Capital as our Washington correspondent Kevin McAleese reports..
Nadir Thokan of Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at the prospects for Sasol, what's driving the global equity market rally since the start of the year and how much legs are left and Richemont's decision to buy Yoxx Net A Porter
Former Gauteng MEC Qedani Mahlangu says the decision to terminate their contract with Life Esidimeni was not hers alone, but that of a collective. She says it was a cost cutting measure and in response to the Auditor-General's concerns that the contract did not follow normal tender processes. The contract has been in place since 1979. Mahlangu has been answering questions at the arbitration hearings in Parktown. Johannesburg about the decision to take mentally ill patients to NGOs, where 143 of them died. Wisani Makhubele reports....
Social Development Minister, Bathabile Dlamini returns to the hot seat at an inquiry to investigate her role in last year's social grants crisis - which saw the extension of an unlawful contract with Cash Paymaster Services. The minister oversaw work streams, which are alleged to operated as a parallel process and hampered the Social Security Agency (SASSA) in taking over the payment of grants. SABC senior journalist, Candice Nolan has the details…
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-Ghanian President, Nana Akufo-Addo goes undercover driving around the streets of Accra.
The business of Parliament officially resumes this week after the December recess. The Eskom inquiry will kick off today (tuesday 23 January), while the Sub Rules Review Committee will meet again later this week. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us that SCOPA has also subpoenaed the Transnet Board and executives to appear before it this morning
Social Development Minister, Bathabile Dlamini, returns to the hot seat at an inquiry to investigate her role in last year's social grants crisis - which saw the extension of an unlawful contract with Cash Paymaster Services. The minister oversaw workstreams, which, its alleged, operated as a parallel process and hampered the Social Security Agency (SASSA) in taking over the payment of grants. Candice Nolan has the details…..
The Life Esidimeni hearings will resume tomorrow following former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu's first appearance yesterday. Mahlangu told the hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg that the decision to terminate the contract with Life Esidimeni was not hers alone, but that of a collective. She said it was a cost cutting measure and also in response to the Auditor-General's concerns that the contract did not follow normal tender processes. Mahlangu however admitted that things went wrong and apologised to the families of the 143 psychiatric patients who lost their lives.
Nadir Thokan from Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at Lonmin's results, the impact of stronger than expected Chinese growth on the global economy and why the IMF cut South Africa's growth forecast for 2018.
Security is expected to be tight ahead of the much-anticipated appearance of former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg. Mahlangu is expected to be grilled over the department's decision to aburptly end the contract it had with Life Esidimeni for about 36 years, and take mentally-ill patients to NGOs who had neither the capacity nor the expertise to care for them. One-hundred-and-43 of them subsequently died. Civil society movements are also expected to march to Parktown, where Mahlangu is set to appear. Arbitrator Justice Dikgang Moseneke asked State Lawyer Advocate Tebogo Hutamo about security before proceedings adjourned on Friday...
As the ANC LEKGOTLA drew to a close and ANC PRESIDENT AND DEPUTY PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA gets ready to head for the World Economic Forum in Davos Switzerland, Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba says the transition in the ANC is part of the good story they will tell Issuing a stern warning to State Owned Enterprises, Gigaba said the decisions taken on Eskom and the Free State Dairy show that government will not tolerate corruption NTHAKOANA NGATANE REPORTS:
Residents of Kagiso township in Mogale City on the Westrand say they will continue their shutdown in the area unless their concerns are addressed. Burning tyres and rocks have blockaded roads as residents claim the township has become a haven for drug peddlers and prostitution. For more on this we speak to the community leader in Kagiso, Rev Joe Mabuela....
The North West government has applied to the Presidency for an official provincial funeral for former Bophuthatswana homeland leader, Lucas Mangope. The 94-year-old Mangope, died last week, at Lehurutshe hospital near Zeerust. He will be laid to rest on Saturday at his home village in Motswedi. Patrick Dintwa reports ...
The Treatment Action Campaign and the South African Federation of Trade Unions are planning to lead what has been termed "The People's March" to the venue of the hearings in Parktown this morning.
The Special Investigative Unit, SIU, has confirmed that President Jacob Zuma has signed a proclamation for the unit to investigate the North West Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport and its senior officials, for corruption. At least 150 companies are reported to have been awarded tenders irregularly. Other corrupt activities include the multi-million tenders for scholar transport and the Expanded Public Works Programme, EPWP amounting to millions of rands Here's a full report by Lucas M
-Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa takes the lead in addressing the challenges at Eskom by appointing a new board. -Cosatu says the City of Cape Town is not being honest about the water crisis in the metro. -Nicole Kidman receives award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a TV Movie or Limited Series at screen actors guild awards.
Nadir Thokan of Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at the changing political winds and impacts on the market, the impact of the government shutdown in the US and what it means and what better than expected Chinese economic growth means.
Just on the eve of seeing Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa appointing the new head of the NPA, President Jacob Zuma decides to go to court to appeal that ruling. Last year, the High Court ruled that the President is too conflicted to be the one to appoint the new NPA boss and that gave the Deputy President 60 days to make the appointment. We speak to the Executive Secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, Lawson Naidoo...
Deputy Director for Mental Health Services in Gauteng, Hannah Jacobus has conceded that proper procedures were not followed in issuing licences to NGOs that received mentally-ill patients from Life Esidmeni. Jacobus says former Mental Health Director Dr Makgabo Manamela instructed her to proceed with the compilation of licences without vetting or auditing them because of the imminent closure of Life Esidimeni. Jacobus also accused Manamela of lying under oath during her testimony at the arbitration hearings underway in Johannesburg. One hundred-and-43 psychiatric patients died after being transferred to ill-eqipped NGOs. This came after the department terminated its long-standing contract with Life Esidimeni. Wisani Makhubele reports....
Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has been selected to Chair the International Monetary and Financial Committee of the IMF for the next three years. Kganyago will succeed Mexico's Reserve Bank Governor, Agustin Carstens, who resigned from the position last December. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports...
Former Bophuthatswana homeland President, Lucas Mangope has died. Mangope died yesterday at his home in Motswedi at the age of 94 . He led the government of Bophuthatswana homeland for almost two decades, until 1994, when he was toppled ahead of the reincorporation of the region into South Africa.
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at The SARB delivered an unchanged policy decision at its first meeting for 2018, the risks going forward and how have the markets responded to recent developments, the rand in particular?
A leading expert in corporate crime has warned against giving criminals a heads up on their intended arrest as this could increase their chances of leaving the country or erasing existing evidence of their criminal activities. BERNARD HOTZ is Director and Head of Business crime at Werkmans Attorneys. He says the fact that media reports that Trillian - a Gupta-linked company - has been cleaned out, means that they were aware of the NPA's actions to freeze their assets. This week, the NPA confirmed that they intended to freeze McKinsey and Trillian assets worth one-point-six billion Rands in terms of the racketeering laws. Amina Accram reports
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has warned parents that he will not tolerate any disruptions as public schools re-open across the country for the new academic year today. At a media briefing yesterday Lesufi named a number of schools which he described as problematic. Their challenges range from infighting among members of the School Governing Body, coloured parents rejecting black principals and accusations of fraud and corruption against principals. Lesufi says he's been meeting with some of these schools...
A Judicial Conduct Tribunal for Judge Nkola Motata is set to get under way in Midrand in the north of Johannesburg today, six years after a complaint was lodged. The tribunal will deal with complaints after Motata's drunk driving case. Motata allegedly used racist language and breached judicial ethics by putting forward a false defence during his trial that he was not drunk when he crashed the wall of a Johannesburg property in 2007. Motata was convicted in 2009 and sentenced to a fine of 20-thousand-rand. He's since retired. Candice Nolan filed this report.
Bloomberg Economy Reporter, Ara Gumede looks at Japans Core machinery orders rise for a second consecutive month, Markets mostly in decline in China as investors focus on a govt shutdown in the U.S and Not a good day for crryptocurrencies as both Bitcoin and Ethereum drop over 25%.
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at the rand continuing to draw attention in yesterday's session as the local currency briefly traded to its best levels against the USD since mid-2015. November mining production numbers were released and came in stronger than expected. How will this impact on South Africa's GDP growth in Q4 and today the focus will shift to consumption dynamics as retail sales data for November will be released.
The Assets Forfeiture Unit is expected to serve summons today on Gupta linked Trillian and consultancy firm, McKinsey - for deals they had with Eskom and Transnet. The NPA last year applied for an order at the High Court in Pretoria to have the companies asserts worth about one-point-six billion rand preserved. New ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa at the weekend promised a crackdown on state capture and on families that had benefited through corrupt dealings - at the expense of ordinary South Africans. We speak to OUTA's Chief Operating Officer, Ben Theron.
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at South Africa's financially constrained state-owned Eskom was back in the spotlight yesterday as the JSE threatened to suspend the company's debt securities. Rumours are doing the round that the Gupta family assets worth over R1.6bn have been frozen and mining production data for November will be released today. What to expect the data to show.
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at the rand recovering materially through the course of December and trading in a narrow range against the USD since the start of the year, the outlook for the ZAR in the short to medium term and in international markets, we have seen a very strong rally on Brent crude and the market is flirting with the $70/bbl. mark. We find out what is driving Brent higher and how will developments in the ZAR and oil markets impact South African consumers in the near term.
-ANC January 8th Statement -EFF sorms H&M stores - Chicco Twala intends to stop Brenda Fassie Biopic production
The DA Federal Executive Council has resolved to charge City of Cape Town Mayor, Patricia De Lille with several counts including bringing the party into disrepute. DA leader, Mmusi Maimane addressed the media last night in Cape Town after a day of deliberations on De Lille's position in the party and the City. Maimane says De Lille has been invited to make submissions before a sub-committee which was probing division within the city, but she chose to address the matter through her lawyers.
Veteran anti-apartheid activist, recipient of the order of luthuli and late Walter Sisulu's former secretary, Rica Hodgson has dies at the age of 97. Hodgson was also a member of the South African Congress of Democrats and the Communist Party of South Africa (CPSA).We speak to her son, Spencer Hodgson...
ANC president, Cyril Ramaphosa, says the ANC has no room for corrupt leaders and those who are involved in corrupt activities must be dealt with. He was speaking during the pilgrimage visit to Bumbane Great Place outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. He says anyone who stands against the implementation of ANC policies will be removed. Nkululeko Nyembezi was there and filed this report…..
Foreign nationals at the embattled Rustenburg town in the North West, are pilling up at the local police stations to look for refuge. The men and women were attacked on Wednesday night, and their shops were set-alight. This as violence in the city heightened with at least six buildings suspected to be brothels and drug havens set alight. From Rustenburg here's a report by Lucas Mothibedi...
South Africa and Kenya want to boost cooperation and inter-trade relations between the two countries. President Jacob Zuma and his Kenyan counterpart Uhuru Kenyatta held bilateral talks at the President's Dr. John Dube residence in Durban. Trade between the two countries has over the years been favouring South Africa, and now the countries want levelled playing field. Vusi Makhosini reports…
-Trevor Noah handpicks up and coming Comedian Loyiso madinga to be the daily Show's african correspondent. - Prof Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial -Security at the Mandela home in Qunu blocked NEC members from going inside
Its all system go in East London in the Eastern Cape for the much anticipated ANC January 8th celebrations. Thousands of party members and supported are expected to fill the 16-thousand capacity ABSA cricket stadium and two extra fields next to it will be used as public viewing areas to accommodate the overflow of people. ANC president, Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for the party's objectives for the year and most likely reiterating the call for unity within its ranks. We speak to the ANC's Khusela Sangoni.
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Steinhoff Bond redemption of local debt for R15bn Redeeming early. S.A. listed property taking a massive smack earlier on yesterday with some shares falling 20% and Nepi rockcastle trading update.
Nadir Thokan, Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at the world bank's assessment of growth in South Africa compared to the rest of the world, business confidence numbers released for December and what to look out for with regards to the start of US earnings season.
Train services across the country continue to take a hit in disruptions with the latest being the Khayelitsha-Kapteinsklip-Bishop Lavis line in Cape Town. Services on this line have been suspended until further notice following a fatal shooting of a Metro-rail security guard at the Chris Hani station. In the past week, Metro-rail has experienced two accidents which claimed the lives of 19 people and injured dozens more. For the latest on the incident in Cape Town, We speak to Metrorail spokesperson in the Western Cape, Riana Scott...
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Rising Chinese inflation. Consumer inflation still subdued but producer inflation quite high at 4.9% and rising and USA long bond yield. Interest rate increased to above 2.5%. Investors have lost some capital.
- Ramaphosa happy socks set social media alight
- New Brenda Fassie Biopic in the works
- New Mandoza single out next week.
The Democratic Alliance says it is disappointed that some sections of the Party are ventilating their thoughts regarding City of Cape Town Executive Mayor, Patricia de Lille, through the media. De Lille has accused the DA's Cape Metro Executive of making decisions without consulting branches and members. She was reacting to a statement by the regional structure, calling for her removal as Cape Town mayor. This amid an investigation around issues of management and governance in the City. De Lille also faces allegations of irregular renovations to her private home, allegedly paid for by the City. we speak to Senior Research Specialist at the Human Science Council, Professor Joleen Steyn Kotze
Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane wants the Terms of Reference for the Commission of Inquiry into the State Capture to be expanded beyond the Guptas. Mkhwebane says this is to be done to avoid any further allegations of State Capture being lodged with the Office of the Public Protector. This follows an announcement yesterday by President Jacob Zuma to establish a Commission of Inquiry into State Capture headed by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. We speak to executive secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, Lawson Naidoo.
Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane wants the Terms of Reference for the Commission of Inquiry into the State Capture to be expanded beyond the Guptas. Mkhwebane says this is to be done to avoid any further allegations of State Capture being lodged with the Office of the Public Protector. This follows an announcement yesterday by President Jacob Zuma to establish a Commission of Inquiry into State Capture headed by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. we speak to Cleopatra Mosana, who speaks on behalf of Mkhwebane.
Nadir Thokan of Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at Aspen and if there's anything to worry about given the rumors and share price reaction, the Naspers problem on the JSE and US bond yields reaching a 10 month high.
Former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela has welcomed the appointment of the Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo as head of the commission of enquiry into State Capture. President Jacob Zuma announced last night that he will be appointing the commission citing the urgency of the matter. Zuma says any further delay into the matter will make the public doubt government's determination to dismantle all forms of corruption. We seek analysis from Political Analyst, Ralph Mathekga on the matter
Former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela says the State Capture Commission of Inquiry could face some challenges due to the delay in its establishment. President Jacob Zuma announced last night that he had appointed a Commission which would be headed by Deputy Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo. Madonsela released the State of Capture report last October and the President has since mounted several court bids to challenge it. Madonsela says too much time has been lost since the release of the report
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at Trump tax policies effect on corporate profits, British American tobacco announcement on effect and Aspen pharmacare rumoured expose by vanguard .
Nadir Thokan of Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at the strong support for emerging market bonds and why South Africa has benefited from this, Naspers latest investment in Swiggy and its plans there and the rumors circulating about Aspen and it's share price fall yesterday.
-Following her speech at the Golden Globe awards, it seems Americans want the talk show Queen Oprah Winfrey to run for Presidency. - Clothing Retailer H&M is under fire after running a product photo featuring a black boy in a hoodie with the words "coolest monkey in the jungle"
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed two factions in the KwaZulu-Natal to set aside their differences and work together for the sake of unity in the organisation. Ramaphosa was speaking at the grave sites of both the late ANC President, Dr. John Langalibalele Dube at Ohlange outside Durban and of Inkosi Albert Luthuli at Groutville north of Durban. Ramaphosa referred to Saturday's incident where party provincial chairperson Sihle Zikalala and his rival Senzo Mchunu shook hands as a step towards restoring unity in KwaZulu-Natal. Vusi Makhosini reports …..
The MKMVA has thrown its full weight behind the new ANC leader as elected at the governing party's 54th congress last month. MKMVA had publicly declared its support for former AU commission chairperson Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma on a ticket that the party is ready for a female leader. However deputy party president at the time Cyril Ramaphosa emerged victorious. Two factions created by contestation prior to the conference are each represented by three members in the top six of the ANC. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at the withdrawal of central bank quantative, world economic cycle recovery is long in the tooth and World inflation - the true danger to markets.
Five people have been arrested for failing to pay for services from the Johannesburg municipality. This follows a revenue collection blitz led by city mayor, Herman Mashaba. The city is owed just under one-billion rand for water and electricity. There are about 2 000 businesses which have also defaulted. We speak to Johannesburg executive Mayor, Herman Mashaba.
Nadir Thokan from Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at US jobs numbers for December, the Naspers problem on the JSE and just how serious the debt problem at Eskom is.
Reports of the eminent arrest of the sons of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe are picking up steam. The reports first surfaced through an independent Zimbabwean newspaper citing corruption and illegal gold trading as some of the allegations levelled against the duo. This comes as current President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government embarks on a major corruption crackdown, which has already claimed some senior government officials.
The Tshwane University of Technology has given the assurance that it has put measures in place to deal with any eventualities. It says although it has places in some fields of study, it will not allow any walk-in application on its campuses. The university says students who wants to apply to study should do so online. The EFF has urged prospective students to turn up at higher institutions of their choice to register. The move follows President Jacob Zuma's announcement on free higher education last month. we speak to TUT spokesperson Willa de Ruyter.
-Unisa has announced that some students can study for free in 2018. - Zimbabwe Cricket announced that the National Team Bowling Coach, Makhaya Ntini has tendered his resignation. -Talk show queen Oprah Winfrey takes home 2018 Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at Professor Keorapetse Kgositsile's funeral on the 16th. President Jacob Zuma has accorded him a special official funeral. In New York City on Saturday, friends and scholars of the late "Prof" Kgositsile gathered to commemorate his life through poetry. The event came as a last-minute memorial on the sidelines of a major literary conference. Nthakoana Ngatane reports
The family of a 14 year old boy who is still in hospital following a horrific train crash on Thursday says they are happy that all family members who were on the train are alive. Six members of the same family boarded the train from Theunissen town in the Free State. The Shosholoza Meyl train was travelling from Port Elizabeth to Gauteng when it collided with a truck at a level crossing between Hennenman and Kroonstad. Nineteen people died and more than hundred people were injured. The boy sustained multiple fractures. Aphumelele Mdlalane reports....
With just over a week before the start of the new school year on the 17th, 31-thousand Grade One and Eight applicants are yet to be placed in Gauteng schools. They include 14-thousand late applicants from a group of 22-thousand. The other 17-thousand applied on time, but have not accepted placement offers at their second or third choices because their first choice schools were full. Gauteng Education MEC, Panyaza Lesufi revealed this as he briefed the media on his department's readiness for the new school school year in Johannesburg (Sunday). Wisani Makhubele reports.
The ANC has turned 106 years old today and its president Cyril Ramaphosa together with other five officials will pay tribute to four former party presidents in KwaZulu-Natal later this morning. They include Josiah Gumede, Pixley Seme, Albert Luthuli and the party's founding president Langalibalele Dube. Last week the party's national chairperson Gwede Mantashe visited the grave of the longest serving ANC president Oliver Tambo in Wattville east of Johannesburg. Ntebo Mokobo reports...
Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments' Nadir Thokan looks at how the markets looking in the first few days of the new year, where to for Steinhoff now, what could happen to the JSE if foreign flows reverse and highlights from US jobs numbers that came out on Friday.
Ashburton Investments Portfolio Manager, Wayne Mccurrie looks at South African banks and whether the rally continue given the surge since ANC election, latest steinhoff disclosures about liquidity and time period of accounting fraud and are Global economic conditions still supportive of commodity shares.
Nontombi Gwam, the mother of a three year-old girl, Latoya, who died allegedly at Pastor Mboro's church last week is calling on the city of Ekurhuleni and government for assistance with travel costs to the Eastern Cape where the little girl is going to be laid to rest. The mother says she feel like she has been failed by both the police and the health department. She maintains that if there was no negligence from the paramedics and the clinic, her daughter's life would have been spared. She says she's also concerned about the way the police are handling the matter. Horisani Sithole reports...
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga will announce the 2017 matric results in Auckland Park, Johannesburg on Thursday evening. The previous year's overall pass rate stood at 72-point-five percent. That was a one-point-eight percent improvement from 2015's 70-point-seven percent. In recent years, matric exams have been marred by incidents of paper leaks and group copying, however the 2017 exams were declared incident free. As Wisani Makhubele reports, these learners express their feelings ahead of this evening's announcement...
National Poet Laureate and struggle icon, Professor Keorapetse Kgosietsile has died at the age 79. Professor Kgosietsile had been admitted to hospital shortly before the New Year and passed away around midday on Wednesday for complications related to blood circulation. Benjamin Moshatama spoke his fellow writer and close friend, Mandla Langa...
The Bushbuckridge Municipality says they have consolidated affected households following appeals for help from thousands of people whose properties were destroyed by hailstorms that hit parts of Mpumalanga on New Year's eve.Benjamin Moshatama spoke to Spokesperson for the Municipality, Aubrey Mnisi...
The United Nations Children's Agency, UNICEF, approximates that 48,000 babies will be born in the Eastern and Southern Africa region today, on New Year's Day, but estimates that close to 3000 children around the world will die within the first 24 hours. UNICEF says it's New Year resolution is to help give every child more than an hour, more than a day, more than a month - of survival.. For more Benjamin Moshatama spoke to Priscilla Ofori-Amanfo, Communication Specialist, responsible for Emergencies at UNICEF's Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office in Nairobi ......
Today will be one of the busiest days on the KZN coastline. Tens of thousands of people will this afternoon descend on the beaches around Durban as they celebrate the New Year. Benjamin Moshatama spoke to eThekwini Municipality's Festive Season Committee chair, MALCOLM CANHAM
Hundreds of families in Gauteng have been affected after a storm ripped through parts of the province at the weekend. Two people died and dozens of homes and shacks were damaged - mainly in Johannesburg and on the West Rand. Part of Leratong Hospital on the West Rand was also damaged. The Gauteng government has erected tents in the worst-affected areas. Meanwhile relief organisation Gift of the Givers are on the ground assisting affected families. For the latest Benjamin Moshatama spoke to Allaudin Sayed of Gift of the Givers.....
Police in Johannesburg were on high alert last night in various hotspots around the city as revellers were out and about celebrating the New Year. Every new year's eve places like Hilbrow and Berea become hotspots for disorderly behaviour while several townships are hotbeds for the abuse and misuse of fireworks. For an update Benjamin Moshatama spoke to JMPD spokesperson Edna Mamonyane
The Eskom enquiry, conducted by the oversight committee on Public Enterprises, has heard some shocking details, with certain witnesses implicating very high profile people, including President Jacob Zuma, and some of the members of the executive. The enquiry is part of a larger state capture probe by parliament. Lulama Matya looks back at some of the testimonies...
Shocking details of badly decomposed bodies and corpses with missing body parts were revealed at the Life Esidimeni arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg. The often emotionally-charged hearings which started in October also heard how unlicensed and ill-equipped NGOs, with no experience in caring for psychiatric patients were forced to take more patients than they could care for. And how procedures were flouted during the transfers that resulted in deaths of 143 patients. The hearings seek to provide closure and redress for families of mentally ill-patients who were affected when about one-thousand-700 of them were moved to NGOs across Gauteng. Wisani Makhubele has more...
The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver a ruling on whether Parliament should initiate impeachment proceedings against President Jacob Zuma over upgrades to his private home in Nkandla that were found to be unconstitutional. In September, the court reserved judgment in the case that the EFF and other parties had brought. This followed the 2016 Constitutional Court ruling that Zuma failed to uphold, defend and respect the constitution. Benjamin Moshatama spoke to senior lecturer in Public Law at the University of Cape Town, Dr Cathy Powell
Celebrations are continuing on the streets of the Liberian capital, Monrovia. They come after officials declared George Weah the winner of a presidential election. With almost all ballots counted, the former football start took a 61 per cent share of the vote, compared with 38 per cent for his rival, vice president Joseph Boakai. Benjamin Moshatama spoke to West Africa political commentator, Adama Gaye who joined us from Dakar, Senegal..
Just halfway through the festive season and there is a RED ALERT from traffic officials in Gauteng. The province's road fatalities have already exceeded last year's figure for the same period. 59 pedestrians among the dead. Law enforcement officers that had been deployed to other provinces are being recalled. Benjamin Moshatama spoke to Gauteng MEC for Community Safety Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane.
President Jacob Zuma has emphasised the importance of caring for and protecting elderly people. He was speaking at the annual Christmas party organised by the Jacob G. Zuma Foundation at Nkandla in the northern KwaZulu-Natal. Senior citizens - some as old as 107 - received their Christmas presents from the President. Vusi Makhosini reports…
Churches are not supposed to be hospitals; they are supposed to be places of worship. These are the words of the chairperson for the Commission for the Promotion of the Human Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva. This is in response to an incident where a toddler died after he was brought to Pastor Prophet Paseka Motsoeneng, who is commonly known as Pastor Mboro for healing. The Chairperson for the Commission spoke to Benjamin Moshatama...
It seems driver behaviour in places like the Western Cape and Limpopo has improved this festive season. The numbers of accidents and fatalities on the road has slightly gone down as compared to last year this time. Benjamin Momshatama spoke to Kenny Africa, who is a Provincial Traffic Chief for the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works.
It is that time of the year where most people feel that they have to reward themselves financially for the hard work they have put in the year. To some, that financial reward might mean getting into debt, while others have saved up for it. Which one are you? Benjamin Moshatama spoke to Lesiba Mashapa, the Company Secretary of the National Credit Regulator (NCR)
X-mas is a special day to some. It is a day to spend with family and friends and celebrate the year. To others this is a lonely, stressful day that perhaps brings bad memories. Benjamin Moshatama spoke to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)'s Dessy Tzoneva on tips for coping with Christmas blues.
Festivities comes with parties, food and free alcohol everywhere. This is when some who are struggling with to control their eating habits end up binging. Clinical Psychologist and Specialist in Addictions and Eating Disorders, Peter Powis spoke to Benjamin Moshatama about eating and drinking behaviour during these holidays.
Western Cape Traffic authorities have warned undisciplined motorists that they will face the might of the law. More than 100 people have died on the province's roads since the beginning of December. Carmel Loggenberg Roberts reports...
Stokvels remain a popular investment method for some South Africans to save money for the festive season. The Stokvels Association of South Africa says an estimated 49-billion rand is invested through stokvels every year. Banks and police are now warning members of stokvel social clubs to be vigilant with their money these December holidays. This is the time when stokvel clubs normally share and spend their hard earned savings. Katlego Nyoni reports...
Elderly folk in Chatsworth, Durban, left their responsibilities and hardships behind for some festive fun and cheer on Christmas Eve. Music and gifts were the order of the day. For most of the senior citizens, the day was a well-deserved escape from their daily struggles. And they were all smiles, when their occasion was also graced by President Jacob Zuma. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports...
Newly-elected ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to crack down on corruption and restore investor confidence in the quest to rescucitate the country's ailing economy. Ramaphosa was closing the five-day ANC national elective conference, where he was elected to succeed President Jacob Zuma at the leader of the governing party. Our Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report....
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) YESTERDAY filed papers in the Western Cape High Court against investigative journalist and author Jacques Pauw saying that he published confidential information in his book 'The President's Keepers'. SARS commissioner Tom Moyane argued in his affidavit that Pauw revealed in his book taxpayers' information, which was in contravention of the Tax Administration Act.
-Congress of South African Students has called for an end to matric results being published in newspapers -South African Actress Michelle Molatlou passes away - video of the Chairperson of the South African Editors Forum subcommittee on media freedom, Sam Mkhokeli being pushed around by security at the ANC conference in Nasrec has gone Viral.
Eldorado Park, in the south of Johannesburg, is on the brink of total destruction. It's a daily struggle to curb the social ills which have contributed to violent crimes in the area. Besides substance abuse, there's been a dramatic increase in shootings, attributed to gang turf wars. This week our reporter, Jamaine Krige, takes us through the trouble brewing in Eldorado Park…
The ANC's steering committee has called an emergency meeting which, it's believed, will deal with an alleged irregularity during yesterday's Top Six elections. There are allegations that 68 delegates who the electoral officals said were absent from the vote for Secretary-General, were actually there. These delegates were allegedly told they did not appear on the conference voters' roll.
An organisation representing Vice-Chancellors - Universities South Africa - has expressed concern that President Jacob Zuma's announcement of free higher education might cause chaos at universities at the beginning of the new academic year. Its CEO Ahmed Bawa, says they were taken aback that such a huge announcement could be made without consultation, and less than a month before the start of the new academic year. Zuma announced on Saturday that higher education will be fully-funded for students from poor and working-class families from next year.
ANC stalwart, Tokyo Sexwale says it is disingenous for ANC members to blame President Jacob Zuma for all the problems in the country. Sexwale was reacting to the election of Cyril Ramaphosa as ANC President. Sexwale says all those who have been leaders in the governing party should share the blame for what has gone wrong and humble themselves before the nation…..
- Social media reacts to new ANC President and Top 6.
- The Kathrada family disappointed that President Jacob Zuma would think the late struggle stalwart was manipulated into writing a letter calling on him to step down.
Delegates at the ANC's 54th National Conference will now vote for 80 members of the party's National Executive Committee, or NEC. It's Day Four of the conference, being held at Nasrec, south of Johannesburg. There'll be great interest in whether the same patterns emerge as with the election of the party's Top Six leadership last night.
Eldorado Park, in the south of Johannesburg, is on the brink of total destruction. It's a daily struggle to curb the social ills which have contributed to violent crimes in the area. Besides substance abuse, there's been a dramatic increase in shootings, attributed to gang turf wars. This week our reporter, Jamaine Krige, takes us through the trouble brewing in Eldorado Park…
The SA Commuinist party has challenged the newly elected ANC top-six to prioritise dealing with allegations of corruption in government and the party. Cyril Ramaphosa was last night elected as President of the ANC, succeeding Jacob Zuma who held the position for ten years. The SACP has been calling for action against those implicated in corruption and State Capture. SACP first Deputy Secretary, Soly Mapaila says the leadership must be decisive..
Eldorado Park, in the south of Johannesburg, is on the brink of total destruction. It's a daily struggle to curb the social ills which have contributed to violent crimes in the area. Besides substance abuse, there's been a dramatic increase in shootings, attributed to gang turf wars. This week our reporter, Jamaine Krige, takes us through the trouble brewing in Eldorado Park…
ANCConference2017 dominates social media the weekend.
Suspended Cape Town Mayor, Patricia De Lille says the DA does NOT have suffiecient reasons to suspend her.
Delegates from KwaZulu-Natal, the largest contingent, are currently voting for the Top Six at the ANC's national elective congress at Nasrec, south of Johannesburg. The delegates from Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and Limpopo still have to vote. The North West delegates were the last provincial group to finish voting. ANC spokesperson, Khusela Sangoni has an update:
According to the final nominations, deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa is leading with 1469 branch nominations in 6 branches while his main rival Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has support of 1094 branches inslo in six provinces. Both candidates have accepted nominations. Other members who made a cut include Lindiwe Sisulu and David Mabuza for the deputy president Gwede Mantashe and Nathi Mthethwa, senzo Mchunu and Ace Makgashule for the secretary general position, Jessie Duarte and Zingiswa Loso for the deputy secretary general while Maite Nkoana Mashabane and Paul Mashatile are vying for the treasurer general position. Last minute withdrawals from the top six officials included that of Naledi pandor, Zweli Mkhize and Nomvula Mokonyane.
The ANC's new leadership is expected to be announced this morning(monday). This follow intents nomination and voting process last night at the party's 54th national congress in Nasrec, south of Johannesburg. The race for the top job was reduced from seven candidates to a two horse race between Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma and deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa. There were also a several last minute with drawals from the race for other positions.
There have been mixed reactions from the parties involved in the ruling handed down by the Constitutional Court over the land claim of Salem Community. The Constitutional Court has ruled that both parties involved, the landowners, descendants of 1820 settlers and the claimants's descedants of AmaXhosa group that stayed in Salem, should share the land, and the landowners do not have exclusive rights to the land. The claimants own five farms from the 38 farms in Salem but wanted to claim all of them. The matter has been refered back to the Land Claim Court to determine a remedy and what the landowners are entitled to. Mcebisi Ngqina reports...
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court says the resolve of her office is unshakable and that they will continue in their efforts to bring those responsible for crimes in Sudan's Darfur region to justice. Fatou Bensouda was providing her 26th report on Darfur to the Security Council after it referred the situation there to the ICC in 2005, the first time the Council had handed any situation over to the Court despite Sudan being a non-state party to the Rome Statute. Bensouda also cited a July ruling by The Hague Court against South Africa arguing that it established there was no legal or factual justification for the country's failure to comply with its obligations in surrendering Sudan's President Omar Al Bashir to the Court. Sherwin Bryce Pease reports
Deputy Police Minister, Bongani Mkhongi has officially introduced Directorate For Priority Crime Investigation Judge Frans Diale Kgomo to the community of Khayelitsha, on the Cape Flats. The levels of crime in Khayelitsha prompted Premier Helen Zille to call for a commission of inquiry in 2012 - that concluded that there was a breakdown in relations between the community and police. Mkhongi says introducing the judge to the community will help fight crime in the area. Chris Mabuya reports...
-Former Paralympian Oscar Pistorius injured in a prison brawl over the use of a public phone. - On Friday travellers flying from Gauteng to Cape Town are encouraged to exchange five kilograms of their on-flight baggage for five litres of water. - Gayton McKenzie’s New Book Titled ‘Kill Zuma’ Sparks Controversy
Rhodes University maintains that it will not condone 'unlawful conduct' which serves to undermine just and noble struggles from any of its students. This follows an online campaign titled #RhodesWar in support of female student activists have been expelled from the institution for allegedly holding protests against sexual abuses. The female students claim sentences imposed upon them for common law crimes such as kidnapping and assault are harsher than those imposed on male students found guilty of sexual offences. we speak to Director of Communications at Rhodes University, Luzuko Jacobs.
Rhodes University maintains that it will not condone 'unlawful conduct' which serves to undermine just and noble struggles from any of its students. This follows an online campaign titled #RhodesWar in support of female student activists have been expelled from the institution for allegedly holding protests against sexual abuses. The female students claim sentences imposed upon them for common law crimes such as kidnapping and assault are harsher than those imposed on male students found guilty of sexual offences. we speak to the Director of Litigation at the Socio-Economic Rights Institute, Nomzamo Zondo. She represents one of the expelled female students
The police officer responsible for investigating a criminal case against the Author of "The President's Keepers", Jacques Pauw, has been removed. Colonel Reuben Govender, of the KwaZulu-Natal police was removed from the case before Pauw and investigative journalist Pieter-Louis Myburgh were to present themselves at his office to be charged. Jacques Pauw
Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle has failed to appear before the ANC' Special Provincial Executive Committee meeting held in King William's Town to discuss the report of the public protector. Masualle and four mayors of the affected municipalities were summoned to appear before this committee to account on the public protector's report . The damning findings by Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane say the provincial government has misappropriated 300-million rand during preparations for former president Nelson Mandela funeral in December 2013. However the four mayors attended the meeting while Masualle did not pitch up as he is still consulting his legal team on the report .Makhaya Komisa has more .
Metrorail says its central line services will remain suspended in Cape Town due to vandalism of critical infrastructure. Train services between Chris Hani, Kapteinsklip and Bishop Lavis have been affected and thousands of commuters stranded. A 25-Thousand rand reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest of the pepertrators. Chris Mabuya reports .....
Ace Magashule has been re-elected uncontested as the ANC Free State Chairperson. Magashule has occupied the position for the past 23 years Mbali Sibanyoni reports
The ANC has vowed to tighten the legislation on parole. This is part of its policy proposals as it goes to its national elective congress this weekend. The five day meeting will adopt this and other policy proposals discussed at the party's Policy Conference in June. Currently the Correctional Services Act stipulates that prisoners who have served half of their sentence are eligible for parole. But this has been strongly criticised as some of these offenders revert back to their old ways. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more.
The death toll from the outbreak of Listeriosis disease has risen to 37 following the death of a pregnant woman at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria over the weekend. The Department of Health says although listeriosis is serious, it is treatable and preventable. We speak to the Head of the Centre for Enteric Diseases at the National Institute For Communicable Diseases (NICD), Dr Juno Thomas.
Trade Union BEMAWU says if the SABC tables an improved offer, it is prepared to call off Thursday's strike. BEMAWU and CWU have rejected the SABC's four-point-five per cent salary increase, backdated to October this year. The increase would be paid next year. Both unions say they are now forging ahead with their strike at the public broadcaster. CWU says the salary increase should instead be back dated by nine months. BEMAWU on the other hand wants a ten per cent salary increase. We speak to BEMAWU president Hannes du Buisson...
The ANC in the Free State province has elected it's leadership amid divisions that saw some disgruntled members seeking to halt the provincial elective conference. Ace Magashule has retained his position as privincial Chairperson. We speak to a by member of the Free State CR17 campaign, Monnapule Ntamo.
-Two female students who have been banned for life at Rhodes University after they participated in an anti-rape protest in April 2016. -NPA head Shaun Abrahams extends President Jacob Zuma's deadline to explain why he should not face corruption charges. - Amanda Black and her team had a gun pulled on them at the Mapungubwe Music Festival
Labour unions BEMAWU and CWU have vowed to forge ahead with their strike at the SABC on Thursday. Both unions have rejected the SABC's 4-point 5 per cent salary increase, backdated to October this year. The increase would be paid next year. CWU says the salary increase should instead be back dated by nine months. BEMAWU on the other hand wants a 10% salary increase across the board. BEMAWU president Hannes du Buisson says they are prepared to call off the strike if the SABC tables an improved offer. We speak to the SABC Spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
Two female students have been banned from Rhodes University for life and may never complete their studies. This after they participated in an anti-rape protest at the institution in Grahamstown in April last year. Last month the Univerisity found the female students guilty of kidnapping, assault, defamation and insubordination after four male students were dragged out of their dorm rooms, spat on, assaulted with empty water bottles and tauted. The male students had been fingered as alleged rapists at the university. Senior Reporter Candice Nolan reports....
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets trading lower, failing to follow the positive close on Wall Street, Steinhoff and EOH started the new week on a positive note, with both Companies up 50% and 8.54% respectively and Bitcoin finally makes its debut on the Chicago Board of Exchange.
Labour Movement COSATU says the magnitude caused by the biggest corporate scandal involving Steinhoff International will have a serious impact on the clothing and textile workers in South Africa. And the South African Federation of Union SAFTU says it feels vindicated as it has proven that the controversial Gupta family and their alleged questionable dealing are not the only source of problem caused by capitalism in the country. This comes as more than 13 billion US dollars were wiped off when Steinhoff shares lost over 80 percent of their value.
President of the Communication Workers Union, Clyde Mervin has accused the interim SABC board of accepting 650 million rands in payments despite the public broadcaster's financial troubles we get reaction from SABC board member, Mathatha Tsedu
Wage negotiations between the SABC and its unions are expected to commence today. This follows the offer of four-point-five percent salary increase made by the public broadcaster to its staff. The SABC is running against the clock to reach a settlement as workers have threatened to go on strike on Thursday just ahead of the much anticipated ANC elective conference kicking off at the weekend. we speak to Worker union CWU (communication Workers Union) president, Clyde Mervin
The South African Post Office (Sapo) will now be the new distributor of social grants. This follows an agreement between the Post Office and SASSA announced by the Minister in the Presidency, responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Jeff Radebe. This follows the order by the constitutional court that SASSA and the Social Development Department must find an alternative service provider to Cash Paymaster Services (CPS). SAPO and SASSA will now work together to ensure that 17 million social grants recipients receive their grants from April next year.
Telecommunications and Postal Services Minister, Siyabonga Cwele, has moved to reassure social grants beneficiaries that the transition from CPS to the South African Post Office will be smooth. Yesterday, the Inter-Ministerial Committee on social grants announced that SASSA and the Post Office had signed an agreement which would see the Post Office taking over the grants distribution from April the first. In March the Constitutional Court ordered SASSA and the Social Development Department to find a new service provider to replace CPS. Minister Cwele says grants beneficiaries will benefit financially with the new payment system...
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets opening the week higher following a positive close on Wall Street, few Central Banks expected to hold their Policy Meetings and Steinhoff on the Spot Light last WEEK. EOH Shares have also come under immense pressure falling by 45% on Thursday.
-ANCWL President Bathabile Dlamini has reacted to Cyril Ramaphosa's comments on the Jacob Zuma's rape accuser, Khwezi. -University of cape Town Student Nkosinathi Nkomo who created a water-purification system dies. -The Hawks have released a statement saying found no evidence of the so-called zombie drug flakka being manufactured, sold or consumed in South Africa - R kelly's Atlanta home robbed.
Joining us for the last time we Sakina Kamwendo talks Eskom, corruption, Steinhoff, nuclear power with ETF Strategist & Advisor, Nerina Visser whose daughter says she is "exhaustipated"
There has been widespread condemnation from various business sectors and unions in the wake of international retailer Steinhoff revelations of accounting irregularities. Many business groups are calling for business organisations to distance themselves from corrupt companies. Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) says it is disappointed and disgruntled by Steinhoff's recent allegations. It says this makes big business look bad. It is calling on businesses to adhere to the codes of good corporate governance and ethics. Amina Accram reports
The ANC is proposing to establish what it calls an Electoral Revolutionary Council, to better screen it's members who want to occupy top leadership roles. This is contained in the ruling party's policy documents on organisational renewal, which will further be discussed at the National Conference in Nasrec next week. ANC President Jacob Zuma's term will come to an end, as the party gears up to elect new leadership. Mbali Sibanyoni reports...
Suspended head of the Gauteng Health Department, Dr Barney Selebano, has given contradicting answers on whether Premier David Makhura knew about the transfer of patients to NGOs. Selebano also said he will not resign over the bungled Esidimeni relocations, which resulted in the deaths of 143 mentally ill-patients. He maintaines that the decision to terminate the Life Esidimeni contract was a cost-cutting measure. But, he regrets not listening to warnings against the move. Wisani Makhubele reports..
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lenstoane looks at the Asian Pacific Region, the big Sell Off on Steinhoff, a 66% drop in one day and business confidence in South Africa's economy improving slightly.
Former Acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Khomotso Phahlane is being implicated in allegedly fabricating a case against IPID Boss, Robert McBride. This follows a raid by Police watchdog, Independent Police Investigative Directorate - IPID - at Phalane's properties and those of his alleged accomplices. Phahlane was suspended in June after he was accused of fraud and corruption for allegedly taking kickbacks to secure SAPS tenders
COSATU in KwaZulu-Natal has vowed to curb the ill-treatment of workers at Durban factories following an exposé by the SABC of female workers being stripped naked on suspicions of theft when they knock off duty. At least two companies have admitted to the practice of strip searching while the labour department has also found that workers in these factories are exploited and under paid. We speak to Cosatu's Provincial Secretary in KwaZulu-Natal, Edwin Mkhize
Jerusalem is a final status issue and must be resolved through direct negotiations between the two parties. That was the view expressed by the United Nations Secretary General just moments after President Donald Trump's announcement that he was moving the United States Embassy to Jerusalem. Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel has placed it in opposition to the international consensus that views the holy city as a final status issues that must be resolved by the parties themselves. We speak to visiting professor in the Department of International Relations at Wits University, Prof. John Stremlau
Suspended head of the Gauteng Health Department Dr Barney Selebano has told the Life Esidimeni hearings in Johannesburg that he was scared to stand up to then MEC Qedani Mahlangu. Selebano says he agreed with Chief Director Molefi Mosenogi that the move could have dire consequences if carrid out hurriedly. Mosenogi led the project to transfer the mentally-ill patients to ill-eqqipped and unlicensed NGOs. Before patients were moved, Mosenogi wrote a letter the then MEC requesting a minimum of six months' extension for the project, saying it could not be carried out in three months. Wisani Makhubele reports.....
EFT Strategist, Nerina Visser looks at expectation that tax revenues will improve without having to increase tax rates and •Corporate governance – or rather the lack thereof – becoming an alarming common thread of the stories that dominate our news headlines eg: whether it’s Eskom, or Naspers, or the Black Business Council or most recently, Steinhoff.
-EFF Spokesperson, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi graduates with a doctorate in political studies from Wits University - UDM Leader General Bantu Holomisa gives the Keynote address at the #RememberingMandela event. -
Road Traffic Management Cooperation CEO, Advocate Makhosini Msibi has committed to ensuring that law enforcement officers work throughout the night in order to tackle transgressions on the road that occur after sunset. Msibi together with transport minister, Joe Maswanganyi yesterday launched the holiday road safety campaign in Limpopo where the N1 has experienced a high number of accidents. In Gauteng, more than forty people have died on the roads since the start of December alone and many of those killed were pedestrians who were struck by cars.
The City of Cape Town Executive Mayor, Patricia de Lille wants Capetonians to pay a drought charge. This, she says, is to ensure that there is sufficient money available to spend on emergency water augmentation projects, when the need arise.
Acting Eskom board Chairperson Zethembe Khoza has faced a barrage of questions at the parliamentary inquiry about his role in the company. Evidence leader Ntuthuzelo Vanara spent more than three hours grilling Khoza on various issues. The company's Executive Support Manager Anton Minnaar was questioned on the pension payout to former CEO Brian Molefe and whether his contract was permanent or fixed term. Joseph Mosia reports...
Suspended Head of Gauteng Health Department Dr Barney Selebano says the decision to terminate the long-standing contract with Life Esidimeni was taken to save costs due to pressure from the national treasury. He says it was not done with any malicious intent. He admitted however admitted that there was no due diligence before the patients were moved to I'll-equipped NGOs. Selebano is being cross-examined about his role in the bungled relocations and the subsequent deaths of 143 mentally ill patients at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg.. Wisani Makhubele has more...
The ANC says it will welcome any probe into whether the pay-channel MULTICHOICE engaged in corrupt and unethical conduct to influence government policy over digital migration. This follows damning revelations that MULTICHOICE executives sought to pay the SABC 100 million rand and the GUPTA owned TV network ANN7 allegedly in exchange for its political influence over government's position on set-top boxes. Yesterday, the ANC sub-committee on Communications and Battles of Ideas presented an update on a discussion document focusing on media transformation ahead of the December 16th national elective conference. Our Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
ETF Strategist Nerina Visser looks at the third quarter GDP data released yesterday and when to expect decision by Nersa on their electricity tariff application.
Ghana's president, Nana Akufo-Addo has shocked his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron by calling for Africa to end its dependency on aid from the West. Macron is on an official visit at the Ghana's Presidential palace in the capital of Accra when Akufo-Addo told members of the media that Africa no longer continue to make policies on the basis of whatever support that the western world or France, or the European Union can give. The remarks have won Akufo-Addo heaping praises from young Africans on social media. Take a listen to his remarks...
Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane has found that the Eastern Cape provincial government improperly redirected about 300 million rand of public funds to pay for the funeral of former president Nelson Mandela. She found that some of the funds were meant for the provision of running water, electricity sanitation, ablution facilities, replacement of mud-schools and refurbishing hospitals. Mandela died on 5 December 2013 and was buried on 15 December at his home town in Qunu in the Eastern Cape. Liela Magnus reports...
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsaone looks at Asian markets trading mixed following a mixed session in the U.S. and European Union finance ministers to discuss the US plan to slash taxes at a meeting in Brussels today and whether the new plan violates international trade rules.
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has nominated Nkosaza Dlamini-Zuma as its preferred candidate for party president. The province's nominees for the other positions in the party's Top Six are: Deputy president - David Mabuza; National chairperson - Nathi Mthethwa; Secretay-general - Ace Magashule; Deputy SG - Jessie Duarte; Treasurer-general- Nomvula Mokonyane. The KZN PGC was held despite lingering questions about the Provincial Executive Committee whose validity will soon be determined in court. We speak to Sithembiso Mshengu, from an ANC group challenging the legality of the current PEC which oversaw the PGC..
Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle now has to respond to the damning Public Protector's report on the misappropriation of funds for former President Nelson Mandela's funeral in 2013. In the report released on Monday. Public Protector Busisiwe Mkwenane found that 300 million rand of public funds were misdirected and that civil action should be taken to recover the money from various Eastern Cape government agencies. Some of the funds were meant for the provision of running water, electricity sanitation, ablution facilities, replacement of mud-schools and refurbishing hospitals. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Provincial government spokesperson, Sonwabo Mbananga:
ETF Strategist Nerina Visser looks at why will we be paying close to R15 a litre for petrol from tomorrow, US equity markets and outlook on tax cuts come February.
- Public Protector finds widespread mismanagement of funds amounting to R300 millions of by the Eastern Cape provincial government in the funding of former president Nelson Mandela's funeral. -photographer, Shaun Earl Harris is suing the Soutrh African Government for R20million for the unauthorised use of an old photograph he took of late former president. -The ANC says they will lodge a complaint with the Electoral Commission over the colours and logo of former ANC MP Makhosi Khoza's new party, the African Democratic Change. -#ANCKZNPGC nominates Nkosaza Dlamini-Zuma as preferred candidate for party president. -
The Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, found that the Eastern Cape provincial government improperly redirected about 300 million rand of public funds to pay for the funeral of former president Nelson Mandela. She found that some of the funds were meant for the provision of running water, electricity sanitation, ablution facilities, replacement of mud-schools and refurbishing hospitals. Mandela died on 5 December 2013 and was buried on 15 December at his home town in Qunu in the Eastern Cape. Liela Magnus reports ...
Suspended head of the Gauteng Health Department Dr Barney Selebano is expected to make his much-anticipated appearance at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg today. This comes after the High Court in Johannesburg yesterday dismissed with costs his urgent application to set aside a subpoena ordering him to give evidence at the hearings. He then launched an urgent application for leave to appeal the judgment. It was also dismissed with costs. Selebano is expected to face questions over his role on relocations of mentally ill patients to unlicencsed and ill-equipped NGOs, in which 143 of them subsequently died. Wisani Makhubele has more......
Today marks 4 years since the passing of former President Nelson Mandela on 5 December 2013 - and the Nelson Mandela Foundation will mark the day with the opening of an exhibition titled UNTHREADING MANDELA. UDM Leader Bantu Holomisa is expected to deliver a key note address, and the day will also kick start the centenary of his birth, that will culminate on his birthday on July 18, 2018. Nthakoana Ngatane reports
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets openening the week mixed following a negative close on Wall Street on Friday and key economic data which could impact the markets this week?
The SACP has condemned the violence from an ANC faction in the Metsimaholo Municipality in the Free State following the recent by-election. The SACP is the kingmaker in the Metsimaholo district as it contested outside the alliance. Addressing the media earlier, SACP General Secretary Blade Nzimande, said their members have been intimidated and accused of running an anti-ANC campaign in the lead up to the re-run of the by-election. We speak to SACP first Deputy General Secretary, Solly Mapaila..
Political analyst Elvis Masoga says ANC nomination processes at branch general meetings in Limpopo have given an early indication that the province will support Cyril Ramaphosa for the party's presidency. The ANC is expected to hold its provincial general council in Limpopo today(Monday). Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and MP Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma featured prominently at branch general meetings held recently in regions. Our reporter Witness Tiva has filed this report.
The ANC in Gauteng has nominated Cyril Ramaphosa as its preferred candidate to lead the ruling party. Ramaphosa garnered 374 votes. The position of Deputy President went to Lindiwe Sisulu with 182 votes. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma garnered 64 of the votes for the position of president. Over 400 delegates from six regions in Gauteng convened at the Provincial General Council in Irene, Pretoria, to nominate their presidential candidates and to discuss policy ahead of the party's National Elective Conference later this month. Maluti Obuseng reports
As the world reflects on the numbers of HIV infected persons from last week's World Aids Day, there are more HIV prevention interventions available now than ever before. Thirty-seven million people have HIV across the world. Vaginal rings, condoms and PrEP, a one-a-day tablet that can prevent the contraction of HIV are just some of these. But, scientists remain hard at work for an HIV vaccine. Minoshni Pillay revisited the ground-breaking HIV vaccine trial- known as HVTN 702 - at the South African Medical Research Centre site in Verulam, and filed this report...
Cape Town Mayor, Patricia de Lille, has again appealed to residents to save water. She accompanied city officials to install water metres to restrict households with excessive water usage. Chris Mabuya reports......
EFT Strategist Nerina Visser looks at the ABSA Purchasing Managers’ Index for November, vehicle sales figures for November and the Napsers share price slump by almost 14% from its recent highs of over R4,000 a share.
-Whatsapp crashes - Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba and Neslon Mandela bay Mayor Athol trollip survice motions of no confidence. - Jay Z admits to cheating on beyonce - 1 day till cassper Nyvost Fill up FNB statdium.
As the results were trickling in last night in the Metsimaholo by-election, the ANC is said to have retained 15 wards, while the DA has 5. For the latest results. we speak to the IEC's Senior Manager for Electoral Matters, Granville Abrahams.
Research Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at PPI numbers that came out yesterday and Trade data numbers that came out yesterday and showed an improvement.
An administrator responsible for mortuary services at the Mamelodi Hospital has contradicted the evidence of his counterpart from Cullian Care and Rehabilitation Centre over a decomposed body of a mentally-ill patient. Nwagu Rasidzoga from Cullinan told the Life Esidimeni hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg over a week ago that the body of Joseph Gumede was transferred to the Mamelodi hospital in a good state. And had requested an emergency service because Cullian mortuary's fridge was overheating. However, Mamelodi Hospital Admin officer Daniel Buda says the corpse was already decomposed when they received it on the 16th of August last year. Wisani Makhubele compiled this report.....
South Africa is battling to contain the number of new HIV infections especially among young women. As the country commemorates World AIDS Day today, civil sector organisations believe there's nothing to celebrate considering the increasing numbers of people newly infected with HIV weekly. The main celebrations will be held in the OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape today under the theme "I have a right to know my status, prevention is my responsibility". Senior Health Journalist Thabile Mbhele reports...
Research Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at Private sector credit extension figures that came out yesterday and what is driving up the revised US GDP numbers and what can we expect going forward.
Suspended head of the Gauteng Health Department Dr Barney Selebano will know on Monday next week whether or not he will testify at the Life Esidimeni hearings. The High Court in Johannesburg is expected to deliver its judgment then after Selebano approached it to set aside a subpoena ordering him to appear before the hearing to testify. The state is opposing the application. Wisani Makhubele reports.
The High Court in Bloemfontein has ruled that the ANC's Free State provincial conference cannot go ahead as planned this weekend. A group of 26 members has contended that there were widespread irregularities at branch general meetings to nominate delegates. Ishmael Modiba reports...
Newly-appointed South African Airways CEO, Vuyani Jarana, says the airline has an outstanding debt of over 13-billion-rand. He says they expect to pay seven-billion of the 10-billion-rand capital injection to offset some of the debt. Jarana has told Parliament's Standing Committee on Finance that even after the payment of the bailout, the airline will still owe over nine-billion-rand. Parliamentarians have expressed hope that the new management and board will be able to turn the airline around.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Willies Mchunu and provincial ANC Chairperson Sihle Zikalala have paid tribute to the late leader of the Nazareth Baptist Church Vela Shembe. Shembe died at his home last week Friday after a short illness. Inkozi was just declared a rightful leader of the Shembe church by the Durban High court but Mduduzi Shembe is appealing the decision.
Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asia markets trading negative, the big losers are the Technology stocks and the British pound touching a two-month high versus the U.S. dollar on Wednesday as Britain and the European Union moved closer to a Brexit negotiation deal.
The ANC in Free State have officially backed Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma as their preferred candidate for the position of ANC President. This is the first time that Dlamini-Zuma has been officially selected by a province. Mbali Sibanyoni has more...
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is certainly going to be changing the way we live and work. But will our education system, in its current state, cope with the dramatic demands of educating and training students? We speak to the Founder and Vice-Chair of the ABN Group, Rakesh Wahi, who this morning is participating in the "Future of Education Summit' in JHB, aimed at finding solutions to the crisis in Africa's education systems.
Today's much-anticipated by-elections in the Metsimaholo Local Municipality in the Free State have been marred by allegations of vote rigging and the submission of special voters names belonging to deceased people. The SACP, which is locking horns through the contestation of elections with its alliance partner the ANC for the first time, alleges that special voters names of people that had relocated from the area and registered in other areas were submitted. Meanwhile, the EFF says it welcomes the dismissal of an IEC presiding officer in Ward 8, accused of not inking voters to avoid them voting more than once. For more on this and the IEC's readiness for these by-elections, We speak to the Independent Electoral Commission's Senior Manager of Electoral Matters, Granville Abrahams...
The international community's inability to prevent and resolve conflict is at the root of the estimated 17-thousand migrants and refugees currently being held in detention centres in Libya. That was the view of the High Commissioner for Refugees in a briefing to the United Nations Security Council that convened an urgent session to address questions of modern day slavery and human trafficking in the country following news reports last week of African migrants being sold in slave markets for as little as 400 dollars each. Council members have expressed their outrage with several calling for a collective statement condemning the practice. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The ANC in Free State have officially backed Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma as their preferred candidate for the position of ANC President. This is the first time that Dlamini-Zuma has been officially selected by a province. Mbali Sibanyoni has more….
The National Assembly held a snap debate on the state of capture allegations. Some ANC members were against the debate taking place, however the opposition was having none of that. Lulama Matya reports....
ANCFS - nominates Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma as its preferred candidate for ANC presidency #Witsmed- Allegations of racism @WitsMedSchool http://bit.ly/2iZe9hc #GRAMMYs- Ladysmith Black Mambazo nominated in 2 categories.
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at the business confidence index that came out yesterday and what effect would a declining business confidence have on the economy?
Two local airlines, Safair and SA Airlink want to unite under the common umbrella of the Airlink group of companies and will approach the Competition Commission today for approval. The airlines say the merger will among other things make air travel accessible and affordable for their customers across Southern Africa. Will passengers really benefit? Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Aviation Expert and Managing Director of Plane Talking, Linden Burns.
The United Nations Security Council will today convene in New York after news reports and video footage emerged last week showing African migrants in Libya being sold as slaves. Permanent member France, which has taken the lead on the issue, says the meeting is aimed at creating a broader awareness on modern-day slavery while seeking a unified position from Council members against such acts. Last week the UN Secretary General expressed his horror at the reports and called on the competent authorities in the country to investigate without delay and bring the perpetrators to justice. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Suspended Gauteng Mental Health Director Dr Makgabo Manamela has apologised to the affected families as she concluded her testimony at the Life Esidimeni hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg on Monday. After four days on the witness' stand, Manamela admitted that the re-locations did not go according to plan, but says they tried their best to contain the situation. This is in contrast with Legal Aid SA's position that more mentally ill patients continued to die because the Department refused to acknowledge the deaths as they were occuring, and simply ignored complaints that were being raised. Meanwhile, suspended Head of Department Dr Barney Selebano will be in court today in a bid to set aside a subpoena compelling him to testify at the hearings. Wisani Makhubele reports..
The SACP in the Free State believes it will get an outright majority victory in Wednesday's by-elections in the Metsimaholo Local Municipality. The Communist party will be contesting the elections for the first time ever against its alliance partner, the ANC. Political experts say Wednesday's by-election will test the SACP's popularity outside its alliance partners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACP's spokesperson in the Free State, Phillip Kganyago and Professor Goodfriday Mhlongo from the Vaal campus of the University of the North West...
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets as BITCOIN up 800% in 2017, most major Asian indexes are trading higher following a narrowly mixed close on Wall Street overnight and US Retailers close higher after strong Black Friday & Cyber Monday.
Research analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at the South African markets as the Rand performed better than expected and Bitcoin has made some significant gains and almost topped $10 000 and what is driving the crytocurrency crazy
Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi together with Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Health MEC Gwen Ramokgopa have announced a high level task team to co-ordinate a recovery plan for the provincial health department. The department has been facing a number of challenges, which were heightened by the Life Esidimeni tragedy. The three officials briefed the media in Johannesburg yesterdayon these interventions. Nomsa Mdhluli reports...
Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane on looks at markets in Asia trading negative led lower by the South Korean markets which is down over 1.3% and a look back at the Federal Reserve unprecedented steps to stimulate the American economy during the financial crisis 9 years ago, did it do the right thing?
Zimbabwe's former finance minister, who was taken into custody by the military after it took power, is back in court today for a formal bail hearing. Ignatius Chombo, who's charged with corruption offences that allegedly took place more than a decade ago, first appeared in the Harare Magistrates Court on Saturday. The ousted finance minister was among those detained by the military when it seized power before Robert Mugabe resigned as president last Tuesday. We speak to Alexander Rusero, lecturer at Harare Polytechnic.
- Miss South Africa Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters crowned Miss Universe. -Idols SA runner-up Mthokozisi Ndaba accused of assaulting a young woman.
- Zuma a no show at 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children launch.
Online shopping in South Africa is picking up steam as more consumers seek to get good deals during Cyber Monday sales. This as several retailers continue to run specials following the shopping frenzy associated with Black Friday last week. Cyber Monday is the first Monday after the US holiday of Thanksgiving, and is known as a day when people are encouraged to shop online. We speak to Stuff Magazine editor, Craig Wilson...
Executive director at Ubuntu Initiative, Stephen Lober, has warned that if nothing radical is done to alleviate unemployment, particularly among the youth, South Africa will see a massive crisis. His warning comes as the country's top executives prepare to attend a jobs summit in Sandton in the north of Johannesburg this morning. The summit brings together influential leaders across South Africa to explore how the private sector can support government's initiatives to create new employment opportunities. According to recent studies, unemployment among the youth has reached crisis proportions. Lober says with such as situation, companies cannot continue to do business as usual...
Research analyst, Fundiswa Nkuna looks at What the implications will be if all 3 ratings downgrade SA? and What are the key issues Zimbabwe needs to address in order to revive the economy?
Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at ratings agency decision out today and US short term vs long term interest rates.
Hundreds of thousands of consumers are lining up outside various shopping centres across the country this morning* to beat the queues to the low prices associated with Black Friday. The common American tradition of extremely low prices in stores has become popular in South Africa as customers prepare for the festive season. For a sense on how the queues are outside some of the various shopping centres. We speak our reporter Sashin Naidoo and consumer journalist at Independent media, Goorgina Crouth.
All municipalities, with outstanding water bills not settled in two weeks, will experience water cuts. The Department of Water and Sanitation says it has issued warning letters to 30 municipalities to pay up their debts or face water cuts. The affected municipalities have failed to settle their water debt for more than 60 days.We speak to Spokesperson for the department, Sputnik Ratau...
South Africa is going through the birth pains of a new democracy but is likely to emerge stronger if it builds on its strengths. That's the view of deputy Secretary General of the United Nations Amina Mohammed who will deliver this year's annual Nelson Mandela Lecture at Cape Town's International Convention Centre on Saturday. Speaking exclusively to SABCNEWS in New York ahead of her departure for South Africa, Mohammed indicated she'd focus on the opportunity of what the new 2030 development framework provides and offer solutions that address the theme of this year's lecture: Centering Gender and reducing inequality through inclusion. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
CeboManyaapelo - Condolences continue to pour in for the SABC Sports Presenter and Commentator Cebo Manyaapelo who sadly passed away yesterday.
ZolaTsotsi- Former Eskom board chairperson Zola Tsotsi had his turn to testify at the Eskom Inquiry
NationalPoliceCommissioner is trending after President Jacob Zuma annouced Kehla Sithole as the new Police Commissioner
JHBWater Johannesburg Water is working to repair what they call the biggest leak in its history.
Senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies Dr Johan Burger says it's too early to say whether newly-appointed National Police Commission, Kehla Sitole, can handle the pressure of fighting crime in South Africa. President Jacob Zuma appointed the former Divisional Commissioner for Protection and Security Services to the position yesterday. The DA says it's not convinced that Sitole, is the best person to lead the police because he loyal to former commissioner Riya Phiyega. However, Parliament's Police Committee Chairperson Francois Beukman has welcomed Sitole's appointment saying he's capable of bringing stability to the SAPS.
Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown has denied allegations that she was instrumental in the suspension of four Eskom executives at the instigation of the Gupta family. Brown has once again publicly denied that the family had any influence on her decisions. Brown faced tough questions late into the night about her role at Eskom. Joseph Mosia reports...
Zimbabwe's incoming President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has promised to be a servant of the people and vowed to work together with them to build an economy that creates jobs. Mnangagwa addressed hundreds of ZANU PF supporters outside the party's headquaters in Harare last night, hours after he returned from South Africa where he had fled since his dismissal 17 days ago. He will be officilay sworn in as interim president of Zimbabwe on Friday. We speak to author‚ academic and Executive Chairman of the Southern African Political Economy Series Trust , Dr Ibbo Mandaza.
Zimbabwe's incoming President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has promised to be a servant of the people and vowed to work together with them to build an economy that creates jobs. Mnangagwa addressed hundreds of ZANU PF supporters outside the party's headquaters in Harare last night, hours after he returned from South Africa where he had fled since his dismissal 17 days ago. He will be officilay sworn in as interim president of Zimbabwe tomorrow. Mbali Sibanyoni reports.
Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at SA inflation numbers that came out yesterday and what to expect from the Reserve Bank interest rate decision today, a comparison between tech giants Tencent and Facebook and why we should worry about the US short term vs long term interest rates.
Suspended Gauteng Mental Health Director, Dr Makgabo Manamela could face arrest if she again fails to appear at the Life Esidimeni hearings on Thursday. Arbitrator Justice Moseneke ordered that a warrant for her arrest be issued after she failed to arrive for her second day of testimony in Parktown, Johannesburg, following a grilling on Monday. The warrant will however remain suspended pending her appearance on Thursday. Manamela's lawyer Lerato Mashilane said her client was not well and had gone to see a doctor. Wisani Makhubele reports...
Robert Mugabe resigned as Zimbabwe's president yesterday evening ending his four decades of rule. The 93-year-old had clung on for a week after an army takeover and expulsion from his own ruling ZANU-PF party, but resigned shortly after parliament began an impeachment process seen as the only legal way to force him out. Wild celebrations broke out at a joint sitting of parliament in Harare when Speaker Jacob Mudenda announced Mugabe's resignation and suspended the impeachment procedure. We speak to Simon Khaya Moyo, ZANU PF Information secretary and spokesperson.
Suspended Gauteng Mental Health Director, Dr Makgabo Manamela could face arrest if she again fails to appear at the Life Esidimeni hearings tomorrow (Thursday). Arbitrator Justice Moseneke ordered that a warrant for her arrest be issued after she failed to arrive for her second day of testimony in Parktown, Johannesburg, following a grilling on Monday. The warrant will however remain suspended pending her appearance on Thursday. Manamela's lawyer Lerato Mashilane said her client was not well and had gone to see a doctor. Wisani Makhubele reports......
Members of the Public Enterprises Committee and the Evidence Leader Ntuthuzelo Vanara roasted former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe during his testimony into Eskom inquiry in parliament last night. During a marathon grilling which lasted until the early hours this morning-questions put to Molefe varied from his relationship with the Gupta family, the R30 million pension fund payout to him by Eskom and the findings of the former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela about the alleged phone calls he made while around the house of the Gupta family in Saxonworld, Johannesburg. Despite his initial reluctance to provide direct answers to questions posed to him- Molefe admitted some of the claims levelled against him as facts. These include, an admission in what he calls a mistake of the pension fund payout to him by Eskom. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report.
Zimbabwe is awaiting the return of Emmerson Mnangagwa - the man who served as former President Robert Mugabe's right-hand man. Mnangagwa will be sworn as interim president this afternoon after Mugabe stepped down yesterday. Mugabe fired Mnangagwa on November the sixth, triggering a military take-over. Mnangagwa reportedly fled to South Africa after receiving death threats. We speak to Senior Research Consultant at Institute for Security Studies, Derek Matyszak.
President Jacob Zuma will not travel to Zimbabwe as was earlier planned. This reverses a decision by members of SADeC who met in Angola that Zuma and his Angolan counterpart João Lourenço would travel to Zimbabwe to assess the situation. The Presidency says the trip has been postponed until further notice.
-Idols SA Runner up Mthokozisi AWOL after winner was announced on Sunday night. - Def Jam Records mogul Russell Simmons is the latest celebrity to be accused of sexual misconduct. - Reports that green barcoded ID's will be invalid come 31 March 2018 are FALSE
The community of Eldorado Park south of Johannesburg was thrust into the spotlight again last month after the violent murder of 4-year-old Shaynice Talla. Her body was found tossed inside a drain near her family home. She had been reported missing on the same day. Since then the community has mobilised to try and curb the scourge of violent crime in the area. However they feel they are alone in this fight as it seems government and law enforcement are not pulling their weight. Jamaine Krige reports...
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his axed Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa will soon be in talks about the current political impasse. The nation's Defense Force - yesterday (Monday) revealed that the pair had already been in contact with each other. According to military leader, General Constantino Chiwenga - Mnangagwa is expected to arrive back in Harare soon. We speak to SABC reporter, Noma Bolani.
Services have come to a complete stand still in the Emfuleni local municipality in the Vaal due to the unavailability of water. Schools, clinics, businesses and households have been affected and have been forced to find alternative means to get water. This follows Rand Water's announcement over the weekend that it has cut off water supply to the municipality by 60%, which includes the historic townships of Sharpeville, Sebokeng and Evaton. Rand Water says this is part of it's credit control measure to force the municipality to cough up the over 370-million rands in overdue payment. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports...
Suspended Gauteng Mental Health Director, Dr Makgabo Manamela has conceded that NGOs went for months without getting any payments from government after they received mentally ill patients from Life Esidimeni. This after patients were transferred to them without service level agreements. Some of the 143 patients died of severe dehydration and hunger at ill-equipped NGOs. Some NGOs owners testified at the hearings that they had to rely on donations for survival. Manamela was subpoenaed to appear at the hearings to answer for her role in the deaths of 143 patients after refusing to testify voluntarily. Wisani Makhubele reports.....
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsaone looks at Asian markets trading higher following a positive close on Wall Street. Tencent becomes the first Asian Company to top US$500 Billion in value and The Rand is unfazed by the looming Rating reviews.
Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at Netcare earnings that came out yesterday and the factors to watch which may derail the global equity rally and the scale of negative yielding debt globally.
Former President Thabo Mbeki has lambasted the ANC National Executive Committee for choosing not to attend the ANC Stalwarts and Veterans Consultative Conference. Mbeki was speaking at the Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg on the final day of the three day conference. The conference was called on by the stalwarts for more than a year, in order to try and address and resolve the crisis within the mother body. Mbali Sibanyoni has more...
Zimbabweans will now wait for midday on Monday to see if President Robert Mugabe will finally heed the call for his to resign as the country leader. On Sunday night, the 93-year-old leader shocked the world when he delivered his address that did not included his expected resignation. Earlier in the day, ZANU-PF's Special Central Committee Meeting resolved to remove him as party leader - further giving him a deadline of 12pm to step down. The Special Meeting also agreed to have Mugabe's antagonist Emmerson Mnangagwa as the interim President until their conference in December.
As thousands of Zimbabwean nationals around the world expressed their disappointment that President Robert Mugabe did not resign last night, some Zimbabwean nationals at the Beit Bridge border post in Limpopo came out in his defence. In his much awaited national address last night, Mugabe did not resign as was expected by others. He assured the country that he is still in charge. Some Zimbabweans say he should be allowed to finish his term while others are saying he must resign. Some are blaming him of the 1983 Matebeleland mass killing in which thousands of Zimbabweans were killed. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase was at the Beitbridge border.
The SA National Defence Force says Brian Molefe has been associated with the force since 2009. There have been reports that Molefe is receiving a salary of 57-thousand rand from the SANDF since August. We speak to SANDF spokesperson, Sphiwe Dlamini.
Zimbabwe's ruling party Central Committee has given it's former long time president Robert Mugabe a deadline of noon TODAY to resign as state president or face impeachment proceedings in Parliament on Tuesday. Zanu PF's Central Committee met yesterday for a special session at its headquarters in Harare. We speak to Zimbabwe's war veterans leader, Chris Mutsvangwa
-Paxton wins IdolsSA2017 -There's growing speculation that Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe read the wrong speech _ Christina Aguilera trends after underwheming Whitney Houston tribute at American music Awards.
Former President Thabo Mbeki has lambasted the ANC National Executive Committee for choosing not to attend the ANC Stalwarts and Veterans Consultative Conference. Mbeki was speaking at the Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg on the final day of the three day conference. The conference was called on by the stalwarts for more than a year, in order to try and address and resolve the crisis within the mother body. Mbali Sibanyoni reports
Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at the scale of the tech rally this year and the investment thesis for Tiger Brands and the scale of negative yielding debt globally.
The SABC board has acussed Rachel Kalidass, who resigned as a board member yesterday, of leaking confidential information. The board addressed the media in Auckland Park yesterday evening about the allegations contained in Kalidass's resignation letter. We speak to Khanyisile Kweyamaa a member of the SABC Board.
The SADC Troika on Politics, Defence and Security has called for an urgent meeting of all SADC regional leaders to discuss the deepening political crisis in Zimbabwe. This follows the seemingly bloodless coup after the army announced that it is targeting what it calls criminals around President Robert Mugabe. President Jacob Zuma who is also the SADC chair arrived in Botswana last night for a Bi-National Commission with his Botswana counterpart, Seretse Khama Ian Khama. But the BNC is expected to dwell much into the Zimbabwean situation. We speak to retired Zimbabwean Lieutenant Colonel and now academic with the Institute for African Renaissance Studies at UNISA, Dr Martin Rupiya....
Negotiations are reported to be continuing over the future of Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe who is under house arrest. Some reports say progress is being made towards a deal for him to resign. But Mugabe is said to be demanding guarantees and a dignified exit. Pictures have been released of Mugabe at the state house with the South Africa delegation and the man who had him detained, the head of the military Constantine Chiwenga. Our correspondent in Zimbabwe, Ephert Musekiwa..
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at Oil markets retreating recently, Wholesale trade sales released yesterday and Bloomberg releasing its November Economic Survey.
Parliament's Public Enterprises Committee has sought to push back against what it says are Minister Lynne Brown's attempts to intimidate it. The committee, which is conducting an inquiry into Eskom, rejected Brown's letter in which she complains about how it is doing its work. The committee also heard evidence from a partner of management consulting firm McKinsey about that company's role in Eskom's current situation. Joseph Mosia reports...
There has been mixed reaction from some political parties in Parliament to the military intervention in Zimbabwe. The EFF supports what is calls a peaceful military intervention.The African People's Convention and the Freedom Front-Plus have also welcomed the intervention, while the DA wants Mugabe to resign. Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports...
It was a shock outcome and upset for South Africa, after France was named as host of the 2023 Rugby World Cup after a meeting of the World Rugby Council in London. South Africa had been named the clear leader after an exhaustive independent evaluation process, however the country lost to its European counterparts after two rounds of voting. Our correspondent Catherine Drew was there.
A battle is looming involving lawyers representing Winnie Madikizela Mandela and executors of late president Nelson Mandela's will. Madikizela-Mandela has approached the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein to overturn a 2016 decision by the Mthatha High Court, which dismissed her application to acquire Madiba's home at Qunu in the Eastern Cape. Thabiso Radebe reports...
A battle is looming involving lawyers representing Winnie Madikizela Mandela and executors of late president Nelson Mandela's will. Madikizela-Mandela has approached the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein to overturn a 2016 decision by the Mthatha High Court, which dismissed her application to acquire Madiba's home at Qunu in the Eastern Cape. Thabiso Radebe reports...
The SABC has reliably learnt that Zimbabwe is likely to have a transitional government after the army takeover. A deal has been proposed that dismissed former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa should lead a transitional government that will be constituted of stakeholders from other political parties. President Robert Mugabe has been given an opportunity to negotiate an exit that includes state protection for him and his family. The two special envoys sent by President Jacob Zuma, as chairperson of SADC, to Zimbabwe held talks with stakeholders in Harare last night to chart a way forward for the country. The envoys, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Minister of State Security Bongani Bongo, arrived in Harare late yesterday. We speak to SABC Foreign desk Editor Sophiwe Mokoena and Reporter in Harare, Ephet Musekiwa.
Lehumo Investmets CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian shares trading firmer despite a weaker close on Wall Street and Naspers hits new record on Tencent’s blowout quarter
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at Retail sales data for September coming in stronger than expected yesterday and How Eskom Inquiry has impacted on South African consumers?
A day after issuing a stern warning to President Robert Mugabe and the ruling Zanu-PF‚ Zimbabwean military forces were seen in the streets of Harare, reportedly taking part in a training routine‚ sparking panic in the country's capital. Images shared on social media have left some Zimbabweans fearing that the army could spring a surprise in retaliation to a speech made by the Zanu-PF Youth League earlier in the day. The Youth League hit out at the military‚ after the commander of the Zimbabwe National Army‚ General Constantine Chiwenga‚ on Tuesday criticised Zanu-PF over the sacking of Vice-President Emmerson Mnangagwa and demanded a stop to the purging of senior party members aligned to him. We speak to prominent Zimbabwe opposition leader and former Education minister, David Coltart.
Zimbabwe's military has detained Finance Minister Ignatius Chombo after seizing power in an attempt to root out criminals around President Robert Mugabe. Chombo was a leading member of the so-called 'G40' faction of the ruling ZANU-PF party, led by Mugabe's wife Grace, that had been vying to succeed the 93-year-old president.
An employee at the state's Cullinan Care and Rahabilitation Centre in Pretoria has told the Life Esidimeni hearings that they were overwhelmed as they were forced to take in more patients than they could care for. They included adults who fell outside the category of patients Cullian looked after. The centre's mandate was to admit patients between the ages of three and 21. Cullinan then had to rapidly discharge certain patients who appeared stable, without proper assessments to NGOs. Some of them died at those unlicensed NGOs. Acting Deputy Manager at Cullinan's Nursing Department - Dikeledi Manaka has been testifying at the hearings held in Parktown, Johannesburg. Wisani Makhubele reports.......
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at market response to National Treasury offering a record amount at its weekly vanilla bond auction as borrowing requirements have increased after the medium term budget ,TransUnion releasing its consumer credit index for South Africa the third quarter and the September retail sales data.
Zimbabwe's military has detained Finance Minister Ignatius Chombo after taking over the streets of Harare. The army says this is not a coup but they're targeting criminals around President Robert Mugabe. Chombo was a leading member of the so-called 'G40' faction of the ruling ZANU-PF party, led by Mugabe's wife Grace, that had been vying to succeed the 93-year-old president. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent in Harare, Ephert Musekiwa...
Former President of the South African Society of Psychiatrists or SASOP- Mvuyiso Talatala says the Gauteng Health Department lied in court when it successfully fought off a legal battle to stop the transfer of mentally ill patients. SASOP took the department to court in March last year to stop the transfer of about 50 patients from Life Esidimeni to the Takalani NGO in Soweto. Talatala has been testifying at the Life Esidimeni hearings in Johannesburg. Wisani Makhubele reports...
-Former Deputy Minister of higher education Mduduzi Manana sentenced to 12 months in prison or to R100‚000 fine and 500 hours of community service, He will also compensate the women women he assaulted. -EFF rejects the recommendations of the Fees Commission's report. - ANC Secretary General Gwede Mantashe confirms that he has NOT been suspended from the ANC.
Former Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande, says he is still of the view that all poor and working class students should be provided with free education at tertiary level. His comments come after President Jacob Zuma released the Fees Commission Report yesterday. It recommends that students be funded through a cost-sharing model of government guaranteed loans from commercial banks. The report also recommends that students studying at TVET Colleges receive fully subsidised free education in the form of grants. Students from various universities have voiced their opposition to the recommendations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Former Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NASFAS) is adamant that the Fees Commission Report's recommendation that the scheme should be replaced would not work. The report which President Jacob Zuma released yesterday, recommends that students be funded through a cost-sharing model of government guaranteed loans from commercial banks. However, NASFAS chairperson Sizwe Nxasana says such a recommendation is not practical in a difficult economic environment
Former President of the South African Society of Psychiatrists or SASOP- Mvuyiso Talatala says the Gauteng Health Department lied in court when it successfully fought off a legal battle to stop the transfer of mentally ill patients. SASOP took the department to court in March last year to stop the transfer of about 50 patients from Life Esidimeni to the Takalani NGO in Soweto. Talatala has been testifying at the Life Esidimeni hearings in Johannesburg. Wisani Makhubele reports.....
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at so-called political noise flow and how this is impacting on the local markets and what current oil market dynamics mean for South African consumers.
The water crisis in the city of Cape Town appears to be worsening. The levels of dams supplying the Mother City have dropped by 7 percentage points to 37.8 percent, of which only 27 percent of that water is usable. The City's Executive Mayor, Patricia de Lille joins us join the line for more.
Former Finance Minister and ANC MP Pravin Gordhan has rubbished claims that he has written the book by Jacques Pauw, "The President's Keepers". This comes after a publication Black Opinion, linked to Black First Land First, wrote an article that Gordhan wrote the book. The article revealed a picture showing how Gordhan was signing the autographs of books at Pauw's book launch last week. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports.
Some Khoi and San groups have expressed mixed feelings about the recent passing of the Traditional and Khoisan Leadership Bill. The Khomani San in the Northern Cape welcomed the bill, while the Khoisan's Gorachoqua tribe in the Western Cape have rejected it. The Bill was passed in the National Assembly last week and was sent to the NCOP for concurrence. Mercedes Besent reports....
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian stocks edged down, with Japanese markets leading losses in the region and key economic data which could impact the market this week.
Head of Financial Markets at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at the ZAR has attracting fresh selling pressure in recent sessions and SARB Governor Kganyago insights regarding monetary policy risks in an interview with Bloomberg on Friday afternoon
The special meeting of the ANC's top brass is set to resume this morning for a third and final day. The ANC NEC meeting, which started on Saturday in Irene, Pretoria, comes just five weeks ahead of the December elective conference. There were reports YESTERDAY that the closed door meeting was at one stage disrupted due to members not agreeing on the draft report presented by secretary general, Gwede Mantashe. Our Presidential Correspondent, Tshepo Ikaneng reports...
Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba has deferred to the Presidency as he refused to weigh in on reports that President Jacob Zuma could announce free higher education for all in the country. Gigaba is leading a high-powered government delegation on a multi country investor roadshow that begins in New York and includes stops in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Beijing and Singapore. Correspondent Sherwin Bryce-Pease spoke to the minister about this and some investor concerns around policy uncertainty and speculation that the ANC's Policy Conference in December might be postponed. Our correspondent in New York, Sherwin Bryce-Peace reports.
Former CEO of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), Lucky Montana has come out strongly to cast aspersions on those who thought they will find what he calls 'the Guptas behind every PRASA transaction'. This follows revelations that Montana met with Rajesh Tony Gupta and Duduzane Zuma at former Transport Minister Ben Martins' ministerial home in Pretoria. In a statement, Montana says he is in fact the only CEO in the country who out-rightly rejected the Guptas from as far back as 2012.
President Jacob Zuma says radical transformation is government policy and one way of enhancing it is by paying small businesses which do business with government, on time. President Zuma was delivering his annual address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
The official death toll of mentally ill patients could go up today when Health Ombudsman, Malegapuru Makgoba makes a second appearance to present his updated report at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration in Parktown, Johannesburg. Makgoba, who was the first witness to testify when the hearings got underway last month, had put the figure at 118, up from the 94 he had announced in February when he released his report into the deaths of the patients following their transfer to unlicensed NGOs. Later that week, Acting Gauteng Health HOD Enerst Kenoshi revealed that 141 patients had died. Evidence leader Patrick Ngutshana has confirmed that Makgoba will be back on the witness stand today
EFT Strategist Nerina Visser looks at the 5th South Africa Tomorrow Investor Conference is taking place in New York this week. Manufacturing output stats for September and demand for so-called “green” investments, or environmentally-friendly investments.
JacquePauw - book launch cancelled after power outage.
#280characters - Twitter expands character count.
MduduziManana - Former @HigherEduGovZA deputy Minister has two previous convictions of theft.
Award-winning investigative journalist Jacques Pauw says he is not deterred by continuous death threats on his life. Pauw was speaking at the official launch of his book "The President's Keepers last night at the Hyde Park Shopping Centre in Johannesburg. "The President Keepers" makes allegation about the abuse of money by the Revenue service, security agencies, and accuses President Jacob Zuma of being corrupt. Government agencies like the State Security Agency and SARS are threatening to take Pauw to court. Mbali Sibanyoni reports…
Suspended head of Legal Services and Governance at Eskom, Suzanne Daniels has said that she met the Gupta family through their associate, Salim Essa. Meanwhile, another former executive at the power utility, believes that she was punished for refusing to sign the New Age and Regiments deals. Lulama Matya reports....
Gauteng ANC chairperson Paul Mashatile has denied treating Emfuleni mayor Simon Mofokeng with kid gloves in the light of allegations of sexual grooming of a 14-year-old girl. Mofokeng has been placed on special leave by the ANC in Gauteng following the allegations against him. The DA claims Mashatile is shielding Mofokeng - who's also the ANC chairperson in the Sedibeng region because of the power he wields in Gauteng's Sedibeng region and the significant role he can play in Mashatile's faction within the ANC. Tshepo Phagane reports..
Former Higher Education deputy minister, Mduduzi Manana, who has pleaded guilty to assaulting three women at a Johannesburg night club in August, has offered to compensate the women, do community service and pay a 100-thousand rand fine. His lawyer, Michael Motsoeneng Bill, has also asked that Manana be sentenced to 12 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years, on condition he does not commit a similar offence during that period. Angela Bolowana reports
ETF Strategist, Nerina Visser on the latest SACCI Business Confidence Index, the International Monetary Fund and the long running saga of payments of social grants.
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they are trading mixed following a mixed close on Wall Street, Donald Trump warns North Korea about making a "fatal miscalculation' and while the recent increase in the Oil price is negative for INFLATION, it is definitely offering a support for SASOL Shares, including the SASOL Inzalo BEE scheme
Taxi commuters have been advised to seek alternative transport on Wednesday morning due to a taxi strike. Taxi operators affiliated to the National Taxi Alliance will gather in Marabastad in Pretoria before marching to the Transport Ministry and the Union Buildings. The organisation is accusing the transport ministry of failure to address their long-standing concerns. They include the controversial Taxi Re-capitalisation programme, delays in the issuing of operating permits and the exclusion of the taxi industry from receiving public passenger transport subsidies. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporters, Phumzile Mlangeni and Sashin Naidoo...
A top South African National Defence Force general is among suspects that have been arrested for alleged fraud and corruption. The arrest follows a sting operation which was conducted by the Military Police and Defence Intelligence Divisions of the SANDF. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Communication for the Defence Force, Siphiwe Dlamini...
The Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearings into the deaths of 141 mentally-ill patients will resume in Parktown, Johannesburg this Wednesday morning. Lawyers involved in the arbitration have not succeeded in bringing three key witnesses, including Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu, to testify within the scheduled three weeks of the hearings. The sitting has since been extended. After resorting to subpoenas, it's now hoped that Mahlangu, suspended Mental Health Director Makgabo Manamela, and suspended Head of Department Barney Selebano, will at least appear this month, or early next month. Wisani Makhubele reports...
Tensions were running high between the EFF and the DA in the National Assembly during an EFF Motion calling for the Nationalisation of Banks without Compensation. The debate was led by EFF Leader Julius Malema. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more....
Firefighters have spent the night battling a mountain fire in Gordon's Bay outside Cape Town. At least five houses have been burnt down but no lives have been affected. An extensive vegetation fire has been raging against the slopes of the Hottentots Holland mountains between Grabouw and Gordon's Bay. Mlamli Maneli reports..
The state has wrapped up its cross-examination of Henri van Breda in the Cape Town High Court. The 23-year old Van Breda faced a grilling from the state and Judge Siraj Desai during his four days of cross-examination. He is accused of the murder of his parents and brother at their De Zalze Estate home two years ago. His sister was severely injured. Van Breda maintains that a masked axe-wielding intruder killed them. The triple murder accused has denied suffering selective memory loss when it comes to incriminating parts of the state's case against him. Thandiswa Mawu reports ..
Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe has fired his First Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Information Minister SImon Khaya Moyo read a statement at a media briefing saying Mngangagwa has been disloyal, deceitful, disrespectful and unreliable. This ends weeks of speculation following a month-long fallout. Nthakoana Ngatane reports:
Investigators in the United States are scouring the background of the deceased gunman who opened fire inside a church in Texas killing 26 people and injuring 20 more. Police have since confirmed that the gunman - identified as a former member of the Air Force - as having died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the vehicle he used to escape the scene of the attack. The gunman was reported to have used an assault-style rifle during the rampage at the Sutherland Springs First Baptist Church before he too came under fire from a local before fleeing the scene. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The ANC-SACP bilateral ended at the ANC headquarters in Johannesburg on Monday night with an agreement to have another meeting later this month. The meeting was called to discuss unity and the functioning of the alliance with the SACP now decided to independently contest 21 wards at the Metsimaholo Local Municipality in the Free State This follows the Communist Party's call for President Jacob Zuma to step down and the subsequent removal of the SACP's General Secretary Blade Nzimande as Higher Education minister. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACP's spokesperson, Alex Mashilo and political analyst, Ralph Mathakga
Communication Workers Union (CWU) is denying allegations that collusion with SABC management could be the reason behind their decision to call off last week's workers strike. The claim came out during the interview we had with the President of BEMAWU, Hannes Du Buison, yesterday when I asked him the actual reasons for his union to call the strike off after 2 days. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CWU president Clyde Mervin
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets as the Major indexes are trading higher, the Nikkei 225 and Hang Seng Index leading gains, the YPO Global Pulse Confidence Index for Asia climbed 1.3 points to 62.8.and the JSE also touched a new record yesterday, traded above 60000 before closing marginally below that level.
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser looks at SA markets as oil market in the short term are up another 3+% yesterday, now sitting solidly above $64 a barre, the move by Firstrand announced yesterday ,to acquire the British bank Aldermore and the JSE again recorded an all-time high yesterday...
Botswana government has officially lodged a complain with South Africa's Ministry of International Relations after Premier Mahumapelo's convoy allegedly pushed Botswana's President Ian Khama vehicles off the road, in Botswana this past week. South Africa's diplomatic and bilateral relations with Botswana have been good over the years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mahumapelo's spokesperson Brian Setswambung
Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe has accused vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa of wanting to stage a coup in the country. Addressing a multi-church gathering in Harare yesterday, the first lady said Mnangagwa wanted to wrestle power from President Robert Mugabe since the 1980s. Mnangagwa has been under pressure since reports suggested that a section of the ruling ZanuPF wants him to succeed Robert Mugabe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Alexander Rusero, a political analyst from Harare Polytechnic...
Members of the public are downloading a pirated, hacked version of Jacques Pauw's controversial new book despite the publishers' warning against this. 'The Presidents Keepers' quickly moved to international best seller lists and sold out within a matter of hours on Friday after the State Security Agency ordered NB Publishers to cease and desist from selling and or printing any more copies. The Revenue Service has also threatened legal action against Pauw. NB Publishers says more copies will be produced next week to keep up with the huge demand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Jacques Pauw on the latest developments....
The government of Botswana has officially lodged a complaint with South Africa's Department of International Relations after North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo's convoy allegedly pushed Botswana President Ian Khama's vehicles off the road, in Botswana this past week. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi has compiled this report...
A 41-year-old woman who was allegedly raped by her former employer in Piet Retief, Mpumalanga claims that she is living in fear, almost three years later. She has also raised concerns in the manner in which the matter is handled. The victim also claims that a rape case was opened at a local police station immediately after the incident about three years ago but still the perpetrator has not been prosecuted. SABC Reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports
President Jacob Zuma has committed to setting up a commission of inquiry into state capture within thirty days if former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela's State Capture report is set aside. The president's lawyers made the assertion in their responding papers filed at the High Court in Pretoria YESTERDAY. Last week Zuma took Madonsela's recommendation that he establish a commission of inquiry into the matter headed up by a judge selected by Chief Justice Mogeng Mogeng on review. We speak to the attorney representing the UDM and COPE, Eric Mabuza...
President Jacob Zuma has confirmed that he plans to institute an inquiry into state capture.He's indicated he would do so within 30 days of the High Court in Pretoria ruling on his review. Earlier today, the president's lawyers met the deadline to make their submission to the Court on the way forward with regards to the Public Protector's state of capture remedial action recommendations. Details of what is contained in the submission, specifically who shall head it, remain unclear. The President took the report on review, arguing that the stipulation that he appoints a judge nominated by Chief Justice Mogeng Mogeng is unconstitutional. We speak to constitutional law expert at the University of Cape Town, Professor Cathy Powell.
-Triple murder accused Henri van Breda takes the stand at the Western Cape High Court. -American Actor and Producer Kevin Spacey is the latest celebrity to be embroiled in a sex scandal. American Talk show host Wendy Williams faints on LIVE TV.
A police task team in KwaZulu-Natal which is investigating taxi violence has taken over the investigation of a spate of recent killings in the province believed to be linked to taxi violence. In the last two weeks, eighteen people have died in incidents related to taxi violence. In the latest incident, the deputy chairperson of the Klipriver Taxi Association and his bodyguards were ambushed and killed in Ladysmith in the midlands
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at the final trading session for October saw the rand weakening slightly vs. the USD, release of trade and unemployment data and expectations on the latest manufacturing PMI numbers as well as vehicle sales data and US Federal Reserve bank’s latest decision on monetary policy.
Parliament on Tuesday heard how consultancy company Trillian Capital was paid hundreds of millions of rands by Eskom without a proper contract. A former executive of the company told parliament that one of the senior executives had made huge sums of money trading on knowledge that a minister of finance was going to be fired. This is some of the evidence led during the parliamentary inquiry into Eskom by former Trillian Executive, Mosilo Mothepu. The SABC's Joseph Mosia reports
A police task team in KwaZulu-Natal which is investigating taxi violence has taken over the investigation of a spate of recent killings in the province believed to be linked to taxi violence. In the last two weeks, eighteen people have died in incidents related to taxi violence. In the latest incident, the deputy chairperson of the Klipriver Taxi Association and his bodyguards were ambushed and killed in Ladysmith in the midlands. Mlondi Radebe reports….
Four of the eight former police officers who were involved in the killing a Mozambican immigrant - Mido Macia - will be appealing their conviction in the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein on Wednesday. Eight police officers were sentenced to fifteen years in prison after they dragged Macia for about five-hundred metres behind a police van in 2013. The SABC's Thabiso Radebe reports
The SABC has been issued with a strike notice from the two unions representing workers at the Public Broadcaster. In separate statements, the Broadcasting, Electronic, Media and Allied Workers Union (BEMAWU) and the Communication Workers' Union, CWU, say the strike will start on Thursday morning. Both unions had earlier agreed to delay issuing of a strike notice to the SABC in order to afford the CCMA an opportunity to mediate between the public broadcaster and the unions. BEMAWU president, Hannes du Buisson, says more than 80- percent of its members employed within the SABC are in favour of the strike, we also speak to SABC Spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
The South African Revenue Service has confirmed that its suspended second-in-command Jonas Makwakwa will return to work on Wednesday. In September 2016, the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) submitted a report to SARS flagging payments made into Makwakwa and co-worker, Kelly-Ann Elskie's personal bank accounts. SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane subsequently suspended the pair pending a full investigation. We speak to SARS Group Executive for Communications & Media, Luther Lebelo......
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will go on an open tender process to find suitable service providers to take over the distribution of social grants. This follows a progress report by the Minister of Social Development Bathabile Dlamini on the payments of social grants in future. According to the Minister, the Post Office does not meet the requirements to fully take over the distribution of social grants. A specialist in social grants at the Centre for Social Development in Africa at the University of Johannesburg, Associate Professor Tessa Hochfeld believes for now there is no choice but to stick to current service provider, Cash Paymaster Services (CPS).
Things take a turn for the worst on Social media following the #BlackMonday Marches and Rapper Emtee flashes his followers on instagram.
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at SARB Deputy Gov. Daniel Mminele opinion that the South African economy seeing signs of a modest recovery. • Moving on to today – focus is seen resting with the monthly trade data for September as well as the Q3 unemployment rate.
A former CEO of a Pretoria-based NGO has told the Esidimeni hearings how she continued withdrawing SASSA grants on behalf of some of the mentally-ill patients after they had died. Dorothy Franks says this was over and above receiving payment from the Gauteng Health Department. All of this happened after Franks' NGO, Anchor House, was shut down and she had quit as CEO. Like representatives of other NGOs that have already testified at the hearings, Franks admitted that she did not have the necessary experience and staff to care for mentally-ill patients. Wisani Makhubele reports.
It's still unclear whether Kenyan President-Elect Uhuru Kenyatta's win will translate to stability returning to the East African country. Yesterday, he was officially declared the winner in the October 26 repeat elections with 98-percent of the vote. But his victory is clouded by poor voter turnout - with a record low of 38-percent of registered voters casting their ballots. Court challenges of the result are also imminent. Opposition leader Raila Odinga led a boycott against the fresh poll, that seemed to split the country in half. Even in Kenyatta's victory speech - he refrained from outlining how he would begin unifying the nation. Noma Bolani reports..
Severe weather conditions have been reported throughout South Africa. With parts of the country like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal experiencing heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms - large parts of the Northern Cape still remain drought stricken. The drought has also had a dire effect on dam levels in the province with the Gariep Dam currently at 64 percent and the Vaal Dam at 85 percent - but the levels are dropping weekly. Two of the five provincial districts have now been declared disaster areas. Noluthando Ngcakani reports.
Kenya's Electoral Commission is yet to announce whether or not it will declare a victor in the repeat Presidential Elections while votes are outstanding from four counties. But the governing Jubilee party, says the constitution allows for the announcement of the winner even though more than 1-point-seven-million registered voters did not have a chance to cast their ballots on October 26. The voters in four counties in Western Kenya - which are opposition strongholds - were denied the right to vote due to election-related violence. Noma Bolani reports...
Coca-Cola downsizes their bottles Former Gauteng Health MEC NOT registered at London School of Economics. Facebook thread of questions for races goes viral.
Kenya's ruling Jubilee Party says the law allows for the country's Electoral Commission to declare a winner in the Presidential Elections without the votes of the four counties* where voting was disrupted by violence. Over 5-thousand poll stations in Western Kenya did not open for Thursday's repeat vote due to violent protests. The four counties have more than 1-and-a-half million registered voters. Jubilee's Secretary General - Raphael Tuju says the results of the affected counties won't have any effect on the national results.
Gauteng police are investigating a case against the mayor of a municipality in the province for the alleged sexual grooming of a minor. SABC News is in possession of a screengrab of a Whatsapp message, where the mayor has posted a photo of a half-nude 14 year old girl, on an ANC Whatsapp group. His number and name are visible on the post. Several attempts to reach the mayor have been unsuccessful. We speak to the Gauteng police spokesperson Lungelo Dlamini.
Two prisoners escaped from the Grootvlei Correctional Centre, outside Bloemfontein on Sunday. The offenders apparently fled through the prison's pig farm. One has been re-arrested. The Department of Correctional Services says it is working closely with SAPS to apprehend the other prisoner who is still on the run. The escape comes days after 6 dangerous prisoners escaped from the Kutama Sinthumule maximum prison in Limpopo after wardens abandoned their posts over pension payouts. Additional warders have been deployed at the facility to beef up security. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Department of Correctional Services spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo,
IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi has announced that he will step down at the the party's next national elective conference. The 88-year-old has been at the helm of the party since its inception in 1975. Buthelezi has also named Hlabisa Municipality mayor, Velenkosini Hlabisa, as his successor. He has however made it clear that his nomination of Hlabisa does not prevent party members from being nominated at their elective conference. We speak the IFP's Chief Whip and Treasury General, Narend Singh..
The Department of Energy on Friday announced that the price of 95 Reef petrol will increase by 4c/l in November and where will the focus rest for local markets at the start of the new week.
The state of New York in the US has announced that vaping will be outlawed in all indoor public spaces. The new rule, which will come into law in 30 days, will mean that the practice will be treated the same as smoking normal cigarettes. Vaping will be banned in places such as restaurants, bars and offices. Vaping products are marketed as a healthier alternative to cigarettes but health experts say they too carry long-term risks to the health of users and those around them. Should South Africa follow this example from New York? we get the view of Savera Kalideen, Executive Director of SA's National Council Against Smoking......
Three people are reported dead in Kenya as a result of violent clashes between voters and the police. Out of the three, two are reported killed in Nairobi, while one in Kisumu. Media reports suggest that voting in parts of Kenya might have to be delayed until Saturday the 28th of this month. We speak to our reporter in Kenya, Noma Bolani .
Questions continue to pour is around how SARS intends on covering the almost fifty-one Biliion rand shortfall in tax revenue collection. This after Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba revealed during his first mid-term budget budget speech on Wednesday that the country faces a revenue collection shortfall of fifty-point-eight Billion rands. Political parties have questioned whether the shortfall is due to a lack of leadership at SARS while its commissioner, Tom Moyane has pointed the finger to low GDP growth, which in turn results in lower personal income tax and VAT payments among other things. We speak to Group Executive for Research at SARS, Dr Randall Carolissen to take us through how they intend on covering the shortfall.
Minister Lindiwe Sisulu under fire for Khwezi comments and Miss South Africa unveils Miss universe dress.
Had it not been for apartheid - celebrated struggle icon Oliver Reginald Tambo, would have been a doctor. Instead he studied law, by candlelight, and later, together with Nelson Mandela, set up South Africa's first black law firm. The ANC's longest-serving president would have celebrated his 100th birthday this year. National centenary celebrations will be held in his home village of Nkantolo outside Bizana in the Eastern Cape on Friday. Senior Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details......
The Life Esidimeni Arbitration has heard that Acting head of the Gauteng Health Department Dr Enerst Kenoshi lied when he testified before the hearings that the department had handed all necessary documents to the police. A senior police officer charged with investigating the deaths of mentally ill patients told the hearings that they had to take the department to court to force it to release information. Johnson says the department's lack of cooperation has delayed their investigations as do not have the deceased's medical records. Wisani Makhuebele reports.....
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta look at PPI numbers came out yesterday and ratings agency Fitch Mid term budget speech statement.
Kenyan opposition supporters continue to clash with police in Nairobi's Kibera informal settlement on Election Day. The residential area is a stronghold of NASA's Raila Odinga - who's appealed to his followers to boycott the elections. Several stations have been locked by residents whilst others have a very poor turnout. This is Kenya's second attempt at choosing a President after the August 8th poll was annulled by the country's Supreme Court. We speak to our reporter, Sarah kimani.
The DA says it will consider all avenues possible to ensure a full review of Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office. This follows YESTERDAY'S resolution by Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services that there is no basis to hold an inquiry into the fitness of the Public Protector (PP) to hold office. Last month, the DA wrote to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Baleka Mbete, requesting an investigation into the public protector's involvement into the ABSA/Bankorp bailout report. We speak to the Shadow Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development in the DA, Glynnis Breytenbach.
President Jacob Zuma has backtracked on his submission at the High Court in Pretoria to have former Public protector's Thuli Madonsela's State Capture report referred back to her successor, Busisiwe Mkhwebane for further investigations. The shocking revealation was made by Zuma's advocate Ishmael Semenya during closing arguments yesterday. President Zuma is challenging Madonsela's remedial action that he allow the Chief Justice to choose a judge who would head a judicial commission of inquiry into the allegations. This is because Zuma himself is implicated. For more on what these latest developments mean in the context of the case itsself. We speak to the Director for the Centre for Constitutional Rights, Phephelaphi Dube...
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba's Mid term budget speech/
Former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu has indicated her willingness to appear before the Life Esidimeni hearings as soon as she's done with her exams. Mahlangu is said to be pursuing her studies in England. Justice Dikgang Moseneke who's chairing the hearings said that he won't wrap-up proceedings until Mahlangu and two other senior officials in the Gauteng Health Department are brought-in to account for the deaths of over 140 mentally ill-patients. Wisani Makhubele reports......
University of Cape Town (UCT) students are threatening to "shut down" the university until their demands are met. The students marched yesterday to demand amongst others free higher education and immediate release of President Jacob Zuma's Fees Commission report. We speak to University of Cape Town spokesperson Elijah Moholola
The Minister of Finance Malusi Gigaba will this afternoon deliver his first mid-term budget policy statement in parliament. Gigaba faces a huge challenge of building consumer confidence and regaining taxpayer trust in an economic climate that's increasingly unsteady. What are the key areas that most workers would like him to focus on? We speak to Mining and Labour Analyst at Creative Voodoo Consulting, Mamokgethi Molopyane.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) last nightappeared before parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts , SCOPA, in what was expected to be a gruelling session. This follows SASSA's failure to appear before parliamentarians on two occasions last week saying there was no progress to report. A day later, Social Development minister, Bathabile Dlamini announced that she has made an offer to the South African Post Office to pay out social grants next year. For the outcome of last night's meeting we speak to the chairperson of SCOPA's, Themba Godi..
Research Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at BlackRock said to list on the JSE and New Zealand signed a coalition deal. How are their policies going to affect other parts of the world?
investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at how Asian Markets are doing as markets await Donald Trumps decision of the next Fed Chair and what most economist looking out for from tomorrow’s Medium Term Budget Policy Statement.
Families of the deceased 141 mentally-ill patients have again called for former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu to be subpoenaed to answer for the deaths of their relatives. They say the government officials, as well as the NGOs which have testified so far, have failed to answer their questions on how their loved ones actually died. The families were giving evidence at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration taking place in Parktown, Johannesburg. Wisani Makhubele reports
Business and labour are dreading Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba's first medium-term budget policy statement on Wednesday. The Minister will deliver his speech in the midst of pressures from poorly-performing State-Owned Enterprises, a sluggish economy and hovering rating agencies. While unions are still expecting an annual increase for public servants, stakeholders are all worried about where Gigaba will get funding to keep the government going and jump-start economic growth. Angela Bolowana reports...
The Initiative for Strategic Litigation in Africa (ISLA) is calling on the Tanzanian government to release the passports of their arrested colleagues and allow them to leave the country. This follows last week's detention without charge of thirteen people, including 2 South Africans, in Dar es Salaam for allegedly promoting homosexuality in the East African country. One of the people who is arrested there is a human rights lawyer for ISLA. We speak to senior lawyer for ISLA, Matilda Lasseko.
Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba will present his first medium-term budget speech in Parliament tomorrow. Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), says it expects the budget to be managed through expenditure control particularly the in the SOE's. We speak to Its CEO Tanya Cohen.
President Jacob Zuma is to challenge the State of Capture report in the high court in Pretoria today. Zuma's lawyers will argue in the High Court in Pretoria today that he should not have to appoint a commission of inquiry into state capture, in line with former public protector Thuli Madonsela's directives. Madonsela directed Zuma to establish a commission of inquiry into state capture, headed a judge named by the chief justice. We speak to Law Expert, Prof Richard Calland.
Trending topics today: Tshwane Mayor puts Mayoral mansion on auction to build affordable housing. Cruz SA Fashion Week opening GQ best dressed awards Christiano Ronaldo named 2017 best male player University of Free State SRC calls for postponement of year end exams.
Research Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at a rally in the oil prices and what is prompting it and how pre-election political uncertainty likely to affect the market in Kenya.
Social media was abuzz yesterday following the decision by the head of the World Health Organisation -WHO- to withdraw his appointment of Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe as a "goodwill ambassador". WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced yesterday afternoon he had decided to rescind his appointment of Mugabe after listening to the flood of outrage and concerns voiced by international leaders and health experts. Multiple critics noted that Mugabe, who is 93 and in increasingly fragile health, travels abroad for medical care because Zimbabwe's health care system has been so severely decimated under his 37 year rule. We speak to Zimbabwe main opposition MDC (T) spokesperson, Obert Gutu.
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at how Asian Markets are doing after the Japanese elections on Sunday? - What key data points should we be looking out for this week both locally and globally?
The disciplinary hearing of Eskom's suspended executive, Matshela Koko has been postponed as the power utility fired the evidence leader, Sebatja Matsaung's services were terminated after a video surfaced of a heated altercation between him and the Financial Mail's deputy editor Sikonathi Mantshantsha. It shows Matsaung insulting Mantshantsha following the adjournment of the hearing on Friday. Eskom says it hopes to appoint a new evidence leader this week. We speak to Financial Mail's deputy editor Sikonathi Mantshantsha...
Arrests made by the Hawks have dropped by sixty percent while convictions declined by eighty percent between the years 2014/2015 as compared to 2010/2011. This is according to recent crime statistics released jointly by the Institute for Security Studies and Corruption Watch. Shockingly, there were also over three thousand more murders in 2016 as compared to 2011. Project Manager at Corruption Watch, Kavisha Pillay says this means that fifty people are murdered every day on average in South Africa.
Research analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at how speculation surrounding Cyril Ramaposa will likely to affect the market?
Oliver Reginald Tambo was born on the 27th of October 1917 and would have been one hundred years old this Friday. SAFM is this week paying special tribute to the ANC's longest serving President. Bizana, which lies on the KwaZulu-Natal border, is home to the longest serving president of the ANC, Oliver Reginald Tambo. On the 27th of October 1917, Julia Tambo, the third wife of Mzimeni Tambo gave birth to a son who would later become an international icon. Tambo grew up in Nkantolo village, which overlooks the Ingeli Mountains, some 20 kilometres outside Bizana in the Eastern Cape. Nkululeko Nyembezi traced his upbringing and compiled this report...
The Gauteng Education Department has advised learners, who are preparing to write their 2017 National Senior Certificate examinations, to remain calm and stay focused. Hundreds of thousands of learners will sit for the exams which are due to commence on Monday. The Gauteng Education has given the assurance that all systems are in place for learners to sit for the final exams. Pearl Magubane has more...
Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets, US Senate approves budget in crucial step forward for Republican tax cuts and Some jobs could be saved after Anglo Gold Ashanti announces the sale of its mines in the Free State to Harmony.
The South African Fraud Prevention Service is warning the public to be vigilant on how they conduct themselves online. This follows the latest data breach of personal details of of more than 30 million South Africans which has been exposed by a website called I Have I Been Pwned. We speak to the Executive Director of the Fraud Prevention Service, Manie van Schalkwyk
Gender-based violence expert at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Professor Shakila Singh, has encouraged society to expose men who use violence against women. This after activist, singer and former ANC parliamentarian, Jennifer Ferguson, spoke out about her alleged rape ordeal. Ferguson says the alleged rape took place at a hotel in Port Elizabeth almost 24 years ago with a well-known, senior South African football administrator. Ferguson has told SABC News, from her home in Sweden, that the global "Hashtag Me Too" campaign gave her the courage to expose her alleged rapist.
ETF Strategist Nerina Visser looks at Min. Gigaba who will deliver his first budget to parliament, the Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement and it sounds as if it is inevitable that tax will once again have to be increased
Trending today: Jennifer Ferguson hopes to one day meet her rapist Becoming Mrs Jones rakes in almost 100.000 viewers Miss world 2017 dress designer speaks.
Activist, singer and former ANC parliamentarian, Jennifer Ferguson, says she hopes to one day meet with her alleged rapist, a well-known, senior South African football administrator. Ferguson alleges the alleged rape took place at a hotel in Port Elizabeth almost 24 years ago. Ferguson has told SABC News, from her home in Sweden, that the global "Hashtag Me Too" campaign gave her the courage to finally speak out about her ordeal and expose her alleged rapist. In this interview with SABC's Joan-Marie Verhoef, Ferguson says she is naming her alleged rapist to help other women speak out against sexual violence...
The DA has welcomed the reported removal of Dudu Myeni from the South African Airways (SAA) board. The opposition party has accused Myeni of damaging the airline, saying she should have been removed along time ago. The DA says that the reported restructuring of the SAA board includes an experienced aviation expert, after a year a calling for this since the current board was appointed in September last year. We get reaction from Aviation expert, Editor and Publisher of SA Flyer Magazine,Guy Leitch.
South African Airways new board is expected to be officially announced at a media briefing in Pretoria later today. Businessman JB Magwaza has been appointed as the new SAA chairperson and will replace Dudu Myeni. Myeni has been criticised for her leadership of the airline.
The newly appointed State Security Minister Bongani Bongo has vowed to hit the ground running in ensuring that the mandate entrusted to him by President Jacob Zuma and the cabinet is carried out successfully. President Zuma yesterday (wednesday) formally sworn in Bongo to the new portfolio. He is the only cabinet member who has been newly appointed in tuesday's cabinet reshuffle by President Zuma in his administration. After the formalities at Tuinhuis in parliament during the ceremony presided over by the Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe- Bongo told journalists that he will soon meet with the Director Generals of the department to get briefings
The North West town of Delareyville is on lock down, following violent service delivery protests, that rocked the area since Monday. The community gave the municipality seven days to respond to their grievances which included amongst others, the provision of basic services such as water and electricity. Residents say they have tried on numerous occasions to bring their plight to the attention of the local council but to no avail. They are now calling on Premier Supra Mahumapelo to respond to their grievances. Patrick Dintwa reports...
Former Managing Director at Life Esidimeni says they did warn the Gauteng Health Department against the speedy transfers of mentally-ill patients to unidentified NGOs. About a hundred and forty-one patients died as a result. Dr Morgan Mkhatswa says several children died in 2007, when more than 20 mentally ill children were moved to NGOs, and he did not want a repeat of that experience. Mkhatswa has been testifying at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration underway in Parktown, Johannesburg. Wisani Makhubele reports...
Mine workers affiliated to the Association of Mineworkers and Construction (AMCU) Union gathered yesterday to discuss the recent killings within the Platinum belt. In the latest incident this past Tuesday, another mine worker was shot and killed. It is understood that the number of killings have risen to six within the last three months.
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets trading mixed following the release of economic data from China; Japan and Australia and the Rand losing more grounds yesterday...it is now the worse performing emerging market currency this week.
ETF Strategist, Nerina Visser looks at consumer inflation ,retail sales for August and Today marks the 30th anniversary of a momentous event in markets. What was so significant about the 19th of October 1987? Black Monday.
Today's trending topics: SAFA President, Danny Jordan accused of rape Marijuana bar opend in Gauteng US Pres Donald Trump and his fake Melania.
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lenstaone looks at Chinese markets are higher following a speech by President Xi Jimping at the opening of the 19th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party and Brent Crude is on the rise again.
Two people have been wounded in a suspected gang-related shooting at Cape Town International Airport. . Police have tightened security at all terminals. Flights have not been affected. For more details we speak to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo.
Trending topics today: Brickz sentenced to 15 years Gerrie Nel and Afriforum to prosecute Duduzane for 2014 accident President Zuma resshuffles cabinet.
President Jacob Zuma has once again come under fire over his shock cabinet reshuffle. The announcement which was made through a media statement saw SACP general secretary Blade Nzimande removed from the higher education portfolio. Nzimande now remains an ordinary member of parliament. Four other ministers were also move to different portfolios. The SACP has described the latest cabinet reshuffle as nothing but a attempt punish the SACP for publicly calling on president Zuma to step down.
The owner of a Pretoria based NGO where 23 mentally-ill patients died, has denied that their deaths were due hunger and cold as recorded in the ombudsman's report. She however failed to explain how they died. Ethel Ncube, who founded the Precious Angels faicility in Atteridgeville, has been testifying at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration held in Parktown, Johannesburg. The hearings are aimed at providing redress for the families of 141 psychiatric patients who died after being moved to various NGOs from Life Esidimeni. Wisani Makhubele reports..
ETF Strategist, Nerina Visser on markets reaction to latest cabinet reshuffle and latest outlook from the IMF.
Cosatu has joined the SACP in questioning President Jacob Zuma's latest cabinet reshuffle, saying it's not convinced it is in the best interests of the country. The labour federation says Zuma has retained some of his most incompetent ministers. Cosatu says cabinet reshuffles should be about strengthening the capacity of government to deliver on its promises. It says ineffectual ministers like Bathabile Dlamini, Nomvula Mokonyane, and Mosebenzi Zwane are still part of the National Executive.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council meetings continue in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, with women empowerment through the blue or maritime economy as one of their core focuses. The meetings aim to encourage trade among IORA's 21-member states, in a range of sectors, including the tourism industry. At least one bed-and-breakfast owner in the host city says the challenges they face extend way beyond policy. Sithakazelo Dlamini filed this report from Durban….
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council meetings continue in Durban, KwaZulu Natal with women empowerment through blue economy as one of their core focuses. The meetings aim to encourage trade among its 21 member states in a range of sectors including the tourism industry. At least one bed and breakfast owner in the host city says the challenges they face extend further than just policy. Sithakazelo Dlamini filed this report from Durban….
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets trading higher following another record close on Wall Street. Palladium moved ahead of Platinum last week and traded above $1000 mark for the first time yesterday and Discovery was granted its banking license yesterday.
The MEC for Social Development in the North West, Hofman Galeng, says all children in the impoverished Ratlou Municipality remain at risk from human traffickers. This is as 30 of 50 under-age children that were trafficked from 28 villages in the area to work as seasonal farm-workers, are still missing. This is the same area, were over 3-thousand under-age girls were found to be pregnant or had recently given birth, last year. Most had dropped out of school and were fending for themselves on local farms. Lucas Mothibedi reports....
Trade union Solidarity says the Department of Health in Gauteng had limited access to families visiting their mentally-ill relatives at the Cullian Care and Rehabilitation Centre in Pretoria since May last year, to hide the disaster that was unfolding. The Life Esidimeni Arbitration probing the deaths of 141 mentally-ill patients yesterday heard that the facility was over-crowded, with almost double its 150 capacity. A social worker at Cullian, Daphney Ndhlovu, told the hearings that they were instructed to take more patients than they could care for. Wisani Makhubele reports.
Today is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII) has identified drivers of poverty in our country and what can be done to lessen poverty. This follows the recent release of the SA Poverty Trends Report, which found that over half of the population lives below the poverty line. We speak to Vuyokazi Futshane who is the head of the SADC Basic Income Grant Campaign at SPII
Today's trending topics:
BraamSuicide is still trending after a 19 year old student commmited suicide by jumping off a building.
Metoo an initiative to highlight abuse against women.
MissWorld Adé van Heerden unveils Miss world 2017 traditional outfit
The Justice Project South Africa has reacted with outrage to reports that vehicle licence fees could be hiked by up to 72 percent next year. The proposed increase has been published in a Government Gazette. The project has asked Transport Minister Joe Maswanganyi to justify the increase. According to the Gazette 72 rand will be added to all vehicle renewal fees as part of a transaction fee to be paid to the Road Traffic Management Corporation. We speak to Howard Dembovsky from Justice Project South Africa.
ETF Strategist, Nerina Visser looks at new record high closes on US stock markets and Discovery getting a banking license.
Another incident of sexual assault has been reported at a Mamelodi East School in Pretoria. A17-year-old matric learner was allegedly raped by the scholar patroler in September during a matric dance event. Mahuba Valley Secondary School teachers walked in on the man during the rape. This comes after 87 Soweto pupils at AB Xuma primary were also sexually assaulted by a scholar patroller. Yesterday (Sunday), Gauteng Education officials met with parents and the AB Xuma school governing body. We speak to Gauteng education MEC, Lesufi Panyaza.
According to weekend media reports, the Water and Sanitation department wants to award the multi billion rand Umzimvubu water project tender to a hand picked Chinese company disregarding proper tender procedures. National treasury and Parliament are also reported to have previously warned the department that any deviation from laid out procuremnt procedures would be deemed irregular. The 20 billion rand Umzimvumbu water project in the Eastern Cape includes the construction of two dams, a hydropower plant at Laleni and bulk water distribution infrastructure. For clarity on this issue we to speak Water and Sanitation minister Nomvula Mokonyane..
Kidnappings....That is the latest big organized crime to hit South Africa. There has been a series of kidnappings recently and it appears to be escalating. What is worrying is that these syndicates are becoming more daring and they are clearly sophisticated. Anti-crime activist,Yusuf Abramjee is warning that kidnapping syndicates have been operating for some time - taking their victims and demanding ransoms running into tens of millions of rands.
Lehumo Investments CEO Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets trading higher as investors digested the release of China inflation data. Emerging markets should get their fiscal houses in order while monetary conditions remain loose, this was a warning from the deputy managing director of the IMF and economic Data expected from South Africa this week.
ETF STrategist, Nerina Visser looks at Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba and Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Washington DC and the bailing out of SOE's.
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at Sasol abandoning plans to issue new shares to pay off Inzalo debt, the start of earnings in the U.S. and SA bond market has been coming under pressure recently...
The South African Local Government Association says national government needs to intervene urgently in the violent attacks against local councillors. SALGA released a report into the extent of violence and intimidation against local councillors. The report presents a staggering picture on the levels of political violence. Senior Reporter, Candice Nolan, has the details....
The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in Bloemfontein will on Friday Friday hand down judgment in the so-called spytapes saga. President Jacob Zuma and the NPA have challenged the high court ruling that hundreds of fraud and corruption charges against him must be reinstated. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Ralph Mathekga...
Gauteng Government has blamed former Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu for the deaths of 118 mentally ill patients after they were transferred to unlicensed NGOs from Life Esidimeni. Testifying at the hearings in Parktown in Johannesburg onThursday, Director General in the Oiffice of the Premier, Phindile Baleni said even though governemnt did not invite Mahlangu as a witness, she must still be called to account. Baleni maintains that they were never informed about the relocations, following persistent questions about how such tragic events could unfold in the Province without the Office of the Premier's knowledge. Wisani Makhubele reports.....
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Asian markets as the US Fed released its September minutes, Mondi released its trading statement which markets did not like one bit and what the key highlights in the statement were.
The South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) has strongly condemned a threat on SABC Lesotho correspondent Nthakoana Ngatane. She has fled to South Africa after she receiving rape and death threats through social media. SANEF has written to the UN Special Rapporteur and the Freedom of Expression to express concern at the deterioration of journalists' condition in the SADeC region, particularly Lesotho. SANEF deputy chairperson Katy Katopodis has described what has happened to Ngatane as a deeply worrying scenari
Families of Esidimeni victims broke down in tears on Wednessday as Gauteng Health Department Chief Director for Planning, Molefi Mosenog apologised for their loss. Mosenogi, who was the project leader responsible for the transfer of mentally-ill patients to unlicensed NGOs, was delivering his closing remarks following two days of testimony and cross-examination at the Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearings in Parktown, Johannesburg. Mosenogi admitted that the transfers of patients were badly done, adding that the fact that at least 118 patients died was regretable. Wisani Makhubele reports...
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at the Mondi earnings update, the FOMC minutes and S&P citing Reserve Bank independence as a risk to SA sovereign rating...
Kenya's opposition leader Raila Odinga has withdrawn from fresh presidential elections indicating that there is no prospect for free and fair elections as ordered by the Supreme Court after he filed a petition challenging President Uhuru Kenyatta's second term victory. Odinga says the electoral commission has not made any changes to avoid illegalities and irregularities pointed out by the court why nullifying the August election results. President Kenyatta says it is within Odinga's democratic right to withdraw but condemned his calls for street protests. Sarah Kimani reports.
Former ANC MP Dr Makhosi Khoza says no credible leaders will emerge out of the ANC elective conference in December. She was addressing the annual Helen Joseph Memorial Lecture at the University of Johannesburg last night. Helen Joseph was a renowned ANC stalwart who was part of the 20 000 women march on the Union Buildings and 1955 and was one of the leaders who read out the Freedom Charter in Kliptown in 1955. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga on Dischem releasing a trading statement which markets seemed to love yesterday and Manufacturing Production numbers released.
The South African Football Intermediaries Association (SAFIA) and its members are facing prosecution for price fixing. The Competition Commission has found that SAFIA has been contravening the Competition Act when charging a fee for negotiating and concluding contracts for players and coaches. Two years ago, SAFIA reported the South African Football Association (SAFA) to the commission for regulating the affairs of football agents. Instead of the Commission prosecuting SAFA, they decided to launch an investigation against SAFIA. We speak to the Spokesperson for the Commission, Sipho Ngwema
The death toll from a storm that caused chaos in many parts of KwaZulu-Natal, has now risen to at least six. The province is expected to be taking stock today of the damage that was caused when strong winds and heavy rains lashed the coastline and adjacent inland areas. At least 9 hospitals in the eThekwini metro suffered storm damage while two people drowned when they tried to cross swollen streams. Motorists who were trapped by the heavy rains on low-lying parts of the freeways in the city, abandoned their vehicles and fled to safety as the floodwater rose to window level. The Durban port was also brought to a standstill after three ships broke their moorings and ran aground. Metrorail has also since suspended all train services in the province leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Co-Operative governance Spokesperson Lennox Mabaso and our reporter, Mlondi Radebe
Police Minister Fikile Mbalula has requested the support of the South African National Defence Force in combating organised crime in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces. Spokesperson Vuyo Mhaga says Mbalula has noted that levels of crimes in recent months involved the use of weapons of war. He says gang violence in the Western Cape and Gauteng are a huge concern. We speak to the Police Ministry Spokesperson, Vuyo Mhaga.
The Presidency has expressed surprise and concern over the statement by the "SABC 8", who have objected to a recent meeting that took place between the Acting Head of News at the SABC and the Presidency. In an open letter by the SABC 8, sent to Parliament YESTERDAY, the group calls on the presidency to make the minutes of that meeting public adding that editorial independence must not only be practiced but must be seen to be done. We speak to Spokesperson in the Presidency, Dr Bongani Ngqulunga
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at StatsSA releasing the manufacturing production data for August, expectations for the IMF revised growth forecasts and SARB Deputy Gov. Kuben Naidoo warnsof probability for further credit rating downgrades is “quite significant”
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at how Asian Markets are doing as third quarter earnings season approaches and what can we expected from the South African Manufacturing Output numbers today?
Nadir Thokan of 27FOUR Investments looks at understanding biases in passive investing, Chinese PMI numbers for September and the opportunity offered in global listed property.
Trending topics today: Lockdown returns for Season 2. The aftermath of the storm in Gauteng. Police Minister Fikile Mbalula in hot water over reports that sporting goods supplier, Sedgars Sports, paid for at least half of his 680-thousand rand family trip to Dubai over the last New Year.
The SABC 8 want parliament to look into what they call reckless abandon the SABC has descended to. The group has written a letter to the chairperson of the portfolio committee on communications, Humphrey Maxegwana. One of the concerns raised in their letter is lack of political will to remedy the governance crisis at the public broadcaster. The group has also accused the Presidency of delaying the ratification of permanent board members. We speak to one of the members of the SABC 8, Thandeka Gqubule
Minister of Police Fikile Mbalula is the latest to be embroiled in allegations of corruption. According to media reports, the Minister allegedly took a trip to Dubai with his family, paid partly by a company that supplies uniforms to the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc). At the time of the trip, the Mbalula was the Minister of Sports. We tried to contact the Ministry for a comment, but have they not responded to our message. We speak to the Executive Director of Corruption Watch, David Lewis.
The official figure of the mentally-ill patients who died in the Life Esidimeni tragedy now stands at 118. Health Ombudsman Prof Malegapuru Makgoba revealed this during his testimony in the Life Esidimeni Arbitration which got underway in Parktown, Johannesburg on Monday. When he released his report in February this year, Makgoba said 94 patients had died, and that he was still counting. He was the state's first witness in the three-week long hearings chaired by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke. Wisani Makhubele has more.
The Executive Director of the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes, Vasu Gounden, says South Africa is moving rapidly in the direction of civil war. He says failure to improve the lives of the majority of the country's people as well as the current political rhetoric threaten to plunge the country into the instability experienced by other countries, like Syria, South Sudan, Somalia and Rwanda. Gounden was delivering the seventh annual Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture in Cape Town. Joseph Mosia reports.
The Lady Frere woman who had charges of murder and attempted murder against her withdrawn by the local magistrate's court in the Eastern Cape, says she is delighted. The NPA announced on Monday that it had declined to prosecute. The women rescued her daughter from three rapists, fatally stabbing a man and wounding two others . There was jubilation inside and outside court when the decision to drop the charges was announced. Lubabalo Dada reports
On today's trending topics:
Personal care brand Dove has found itself in the midst of a social media storm after it released a series of images that showed a black woman turning white after using its soap.
A video of a woman assaulted and handcuffed after her three-year-old daughter apparently relieved herself outside the Usave Shoprite in Cosmo City goes viral.
The Annual DstvFestival and Bafana Bafana win against Burkina Faso.
The EFF yesterday announced the expulsion of six councillors who voted with the ANC in Mogale City municipality. The party said the councillors contravened the EFF decision not to attend the Mogale City budget vote council meeting in which the ANC needed its budget to be passed. We speak to EFF National spokesperson, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi..
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at how are Asian Markets doing after Chinese markets were closed all of last week and what we should look out for in terms of data points this week.
27Four Investments' Nadir Thokan looks at US jobs numbers that came out on Friday, the contrasting foreign influence into our bond market vs equity market this year and outlook for listed property in a weak economic environment.
SACP General Secretary Dr Blade Nzimande has urged members of his party to stop lamenting but to act decisively against gender based violence. He was speaking at the SACP's Red October Campaign launch in Johannesburg on Sunday. The 2017 Red October Campaign focussed on the abuse of women and children and attack on members of the LGBTG community.
The process of arbitration between the families of the victims of Life Esidimeni together with government is starting today. This follows recommendations by the Health Ombud that an alternative dispute resolution process must be implemented as part of helping families of the Esidimeni victims to find closure. More than 100 Life Esidimeni mental patients died after they were transfered to unlicenced NGO's by government. We speak to Retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke
KwaZulu-Natal ANC Chairperson, Sihle Zikalala, has criticised party members who discredit presidential hopefuls who are not their preferred candidates. Zikalala was addressing the ANCYL's 73rd anniversary celebrations in uMlazi, south of Durban. He also called on those leaders jockeying for the ANC's top position to come and assure party members that they will remain in the organisation, regardless of who will be elected during the party's National conference in December. Vusi Makhosini reports
The Khomani San Nation who live in the Northern Cape have elected a new leader. Petrus Vaalbooi has been unanimously elected as the new Chief of the Khomani San following a gathering of all eight tribes. He will lead the eight families that make up the Khomani San. The Khomani San are considered in some quarters as the aboriginal people of South Africa with a history spanning over 20-thousand years. Neo Bodumela reports…
Relatives of the three family members who were killed at Loskop, near Estcourt, in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands, claim they are being targeted by police. Authorities have denied the allegations, saying an investigation uncovered illegal firearms at the residence. A police officer was also wounded during the shootout. Fanele Mhlongo compiled this report
Social activist, Graca Machel says South African politics has become more about the individuals than issues currently facing the country. She was delivering the 3rd Annual Archbishop Thabo Makgoba Development Trust lecture at Rhodes University in Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape. Machel says the challenges facing the country are not prioritised. Mcebisi Ngqina reports...
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asia markets trading higher following another positive close on Wall Street overnight. The US Nonfarm Payroll monthly report is once again around the corner, with market players heading into it with low expectations amid the hurricanes that tore Texas and Florida in the month and Christine Lagarde said on Thursday that "the long-awaited global recovery is taking root" and that three-quarters of the globe is enjoying an economic upswing in "the broadest-based acceleration since the start of the decade.”
Bafana Bafana's dream of playing in the World Cup is hanging by a thread. A win against Burkina Faso is the only result they will be looking for when they host the West Africans on Saturday afternoon. Even that may not be enough as the would depend on other teams in the group to lose in their games. Ticket sales for the game have also have been on a slow pace but CEO of Stadium Management South Africa, Jacques Grobbelaar says South Africans have a culture of purchasing tickets at the last hour.
Amnesty International has labelled the killing of the mayor of Nampula City, in Mozambique deplorable and deeply suspicious. It is understood that Mahamudo Amurane was shot at close range by an unknown gunmen on Wednesday after giving a speech. We speak to Professor David Matsinhe, who is a Researcher at Amnesty International Southern Africa Region.
The bird flu virus has now hit Johannesburg with over 500 birds culled since last month. The City of Johannesburg says several bird carcasses have tested positive for the H5N8 strain of the virus. Some birds at the Johannesburg Zoo have been affected, whilst carcesses have been found in popular parks including Zoo Lake and Emmerentia. Monte Casino Bird Gardens, north of Johannesburg, has been closed due to the outbreak. This is a viral disease that is highly contagious, but doesn't affect humans. Today, we are going to focus on the effects that the bird flu virus currently has on the poultry industry. We speak to the CEO of the South African Poultry Association , Dr Charlotte Nkuna..
Trending today: Presidential candidate Lindiwe Sisulu at Talk Radio 702's town-hall discussion with veteran journalist Karima Brown, Trevor Noah is trending after Gayle King wrote a piece about him for Variety magazine and Zakes Bantwini releases bang- bang video.
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at oil markets back in focus as Brent crude posted a strong rebound,the SACCI business confidence index and the release of the US labour market report.
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asia traded mixed in the morning session as markets in China, South Korea and Hong Kong are shut for public holidays,King Salman lands in Moscow as Saudi Arabia and Russia look to strengthen ties in historic visit and Competition Commission investigating Vodacom for abuse of dominance.
The Competition Commission has launched an investigation against cell phone giant Vodacom into what it terms abuse of dominance. The Commission says Vodacom has secured an exclusive contract with National Treasury to be the sole provider of mobile telecommunications services to government. The Commission says it has information showing that twenty government departments will be subjected to the new Vodacom contract. We speak to the National treasury Spokesperson, Mayihlome Tshwete.
The Competition Commission has launched an investigation against cell phone giant Vodacom into what it terms abuse of dominance. The Commission says Vodacom has secured an exclusive contract with National Treasury to be the sole provider of mobile telecommunications services to government. The Commission says it has information showing that twenty government departments will be subjected to the new Vodacom contract. We speak totThe Commission's spokesperson, Sipho Ngwema...
EMT Analytics head, Jana Van Deventer looks at the Standard Bank PMI for September released yesterday – what did the data tell us about the local economy?, how has bond market performed and main events that market players will be monitoring in the session ahead.
On the trendslist today:
Minister of Police Fikile Mbalula said action will be taken against the police officer and launched a new social media campaign #MyPoliceStation campaign, which aims to address service delivery complaints.
Babes Wodumo along with fellow KZN rapper Nasty C are nominated for the 2017 MTV Europe Music Awards. The two are Competing in the "Best African Act" category.
vodacom has announced they will slash data bundle prices by 50 percent from the 15th of this month.
vodacom has announced they will slash data bundle prices by 50 percent from the 15th of this month.
Violence erupted in Groot Marico near Zeerust in North West as members of opposition parties, police and the ANC's MKMVA, clashed during the unveiling of President Jacob monument at the site from which Zuma was arrested during the apartheid era while on his way to Botswana. Members of the DA were restricted from attending the ceremony while members of the EFF were unceremoniously kicked out of the venue where Zuma was expected to deliver his speech. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi has the details...
Eight members of one family have been killed in the Embangweni area, in Matimatolo, KwaZulu-Natal midlands. Five of the family members who were inside a rondavel were shot and killed. Some community members who heard gunshots went to investigate and found the rondavel on fire. They tried to rescue the victims but the fire was uncontrollable. In another homestead hundreds of metres away four other family members were attacked in a similar manner. Hloniphile Fakazi Reports...
On trendswatch today, the Democratic Alliance has placed Cape Town mayor Patricia de Lille and mayoral committee member for safety, security and social services, JP Smith on special leave from party activities in the Cape metropole. A University of Cape Town philosophy lecturer is trending after he allowed students to miss a test that was scheduled at the same time as the Rocking the Daisies music festival in Darling and Motorists in Gauteng can breathe a sigh of relief this after part of the extended M1 re-opens on Monday.
The Council of the University of the Witwatersrand resolved at its meeting on Friday, 29 September 2017, not to renew contracts with KPMG for internal auditing and risk management services once the respective contracts lapse at the end of the 2017 financial year.
This decision was taken following a meeting with the current CEO of KPMG, international KPMG representatives and members of the University Council’s Audit and Council Risk committees. This was following an earlier meeting a few weeks ago between Wits executive managers and other KPMG representatives.
Members of the Council Audit and Council Risk committees deliberated long and hard on the presentations made by KPMG. The committees acknowledged that KPMG did take some actions, including releasing the CEO, COO and a number of senior partners to mitigate the reputational damage that it suffered as a result of its relationship with Gupta associated companies and its complicity in the SARS report but felt that KPMG had not gone far enough. Further, it was agreed that KPMG had not been sufficiently transparent and that it is hard to reconcile KPMG’s conclusion that no one did anything illegal, when senior individuals have been dismissed and the SARS report has been retracted.
In these circumstances, the Council believes that it would have been prudent to acknowledge the ethical and legal lapses of KPMG’s senior management team. Further, the company should have embarked on programmes to correct the wrongs that have been done to individuals and institutions. The Council also believes that an independent investigation should have been initiated at the outset.
Given these considerations, the joint meeting of the Council Audit and Council Risk committees and the Council of the University of the Witwatersrand concluded that it would terminate its relationship with KPMG at the end of this financial year.
PWC will remain the University’s external auditors.
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane says critical investigations may be delayed after important documents were damaged by a burst water pipe at her Centurion offices. The office was reportedly flooded after its roof collapsed following heavy overnight rains in Lynwood‚ Pretoria. Advocate Mkhwebane says her main concern is that the damaged documents are irreplaceable. She says the incident also occurred in the week in which she is supposed to brief Parliament. We speak to the Public Protector's spokesperson, Cleopatra Mosana...
Kenya's Electoral Commission yesterday met opposition leader Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto for consultative talks ahead of fresh presidential elections later this month. After the talks, the opposition said the electoral commission has not met its demands that it says will guarantee free elections. It has called for protests on Friday. However, the governing party said it was satisfied with the preparations for the polls, but said it would not stop parliament from reviewing the electoral laws. The Supreme Court annulled August's presidential elections over irregularities, but did not say who at the electoral commission was responsible. Sarah Kimani reports.
Police Minister Fikile Mbalula has announced changes in the management of the Philippi East police station outside Cape Town where eleven people were killed last weekend. Mbalua visited the families of the victims who were shot and killed in the local Marikana Informal Settlement. A task team has also been formed to try and bring stability to the area. Thandiswa Mawu reports..
Students from the Nelson Mandela University have barricaded entrances to the two Summerstrand campuses in Port Elizabeth, calling for stringent security measures on all campuses. This comes after two students were attacked at the Computer lab on the University's 2nd Avenue campus. One student was allegedly raped and another stabbed. The students are calling for better shuttle services, more security personnel and police visibility especially after hours. Olwethu Matsipane reports
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asia markets mixed despite another record close on Wall Street. President Donald Trump’s advisers have given him a final list of people they’re recommending as candidates to lead the Federal Reserve and the Beit Bridge border post, was a key topic during the annual Bi-National Commission where plans to eradicate border delays that affect economic activities were discussed.
EMT Analytics head, Jana VanDeventer looks at National Treasury presentation in parliament yesterday, how has JSE All Share Index performed so far this year and the main release on the local data calendar today is the economy-wide Standard Bank PMI.
Opposition parties - the EFF and DA - in the North West say they will picket at the Jacob Zuma Capture Site Monument at Groot Marico set to be unveiled on Wednesday. The parties say that taxpayers' money is being wasted to honour President Jacob Zuma, while the country is struggling with high umemployment levels. The President is expected to officially open the Groot Marico Heritage Site and Liberation Heritage route, where many of the liberation struggle fighters crossed into exile in Botswana. Dyaell Gaetsewe reports
The ANC in Limpopo says it is looking into an official complaint submitted by the executive mayor of Polokwane, Thembi Nkadimeng, following death threats against her. Nkadimeng says the threats were not only against her, but also her entire family. Police are also investigating a case of intimidation. Katlego Nyoni report.
Gangsterism is said to be on the increase at Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape, with seven people including a community newspaper reporter killed over the weekend. Police say alleged gangsters continue to terrorise the communities of Flagstaff and Lusikisiki, despite a recent visit by President Jacob Zuma and Police Minister, Fikile Mbalula. A man, his wife and children were held hostage by alleged gangsters before they shot and killed the man. Nkululeko Nyembezi has more
GraceMugabe is trending again after Bulawayo news ran a story about the FIRST Lady Grace Mugabe reportedly donating used underwear and night dresses at a Zanu-PF meeting in Mutare and Lifetime movies announces The Oscar Pistoriuas movie titled: Oscar Pistorius: Blade Runner Killer.
A meeting between the ANC Senior Officials including president Jacob Zuma and a faction that took the party's Kwa -Zulu natal leadership to court is believed to have run into the late hours of the night in Durban. The Party's top officials are in the province to try and restore unity following the 2015 provincial elective conference and subsequent judgement that nullified it. The Province's PEC last week filed a notice to appeal against the court judgement prompting the faction that took them to court to cry foul as the NEC of the party had yet to deliberate on the matter. We speak to a spokesperson for the faction in battle with the Provinces PEC, Sthembiso Mshengu
The Gupta family is opposing the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse's application to freeze mine rehabilitation funds worth one-point-seven billion rand for two of their coal mines. OUTA last week obtained an interim order from the High Court in Pretoria which directed the Bank of Baroda to continue to hold the trust funds of the Optimum and Koornfontein mines. The application was brought after the Guptas lost an urgent application to interdict the Bank of Baroda from closing their bank accounts. We speak to OUTA Chief Operating Officer, Ben Theron...
It seems the plight of mentally ill patients in Gauteng is not coming to an end anytime soon. Over a hundred psychiatric patients are stuck in state hospitals in the province because the Health department cannot find suitable facilities for them. This is according to a statement by the DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC Jack Bloom. He adds in the statement that in one hospital, 18 patients, cost government 129 thousand rands, a month, per patient We speak to Gauteng MEC for Health, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asia markets trading mostly higher following US. Equities closing at record highs overnight and 2. Oil prices apulling back from the recent highs, Brent crude is now back below $56.
ETM Anlaytics head, Jana Van Deventer on release of the September manufacturing PMI as well as vehicle sales data for last month, Department of Energy announces fuel price will increase by 29c/l om Wednesday, October 4th and what is driving the current ZAR weakness?
Residents of Philippi East in Cape Town have called for the military to be deployed to the area. This follows the killing of 18 people in the Marikana informal settlement over the past week. Residents held a meeting with Western Cape Community Safety Minister, Dan Plato, and Human Rights Commissioner, Chris Nissan. Eleven people were gunned down late on Friday while seven others were killed on Tuesday. Thandiswa Mawu reports...
The family members of centenarian John Chisale whose body was finally buried on a farm in Lephalale in Limpopo, say they are afraid that they could be evicted from the farm now that their grandfather has died. Chisale's body was kept in a mortuary for three weeks after the farmer refused to allow him to be buried on the farm. Chisale had lived and worked on the farm for 70 years. Last Thursday, the Polokwane High Court ordered that Chisale be buried on the farm after the two parties reached a settlement. Witness Tiva reports.
InumberNumber is trending after the last episode of the series aired last night and Tjovitjo and Idols SA lowering trends list.
The Phumulo Masualle-led ANC faction in the Eastern Cape is now approaching the East London High Court in a bid to nullify the newly elected leadership led by Oscar Mabuyane. Mabuyane, the former provincal secretary, has been elected chairperson in a landslide win over Masualle, who was the incumbent, at the party's provincial conference in East London. we speak to new ANC chairperson in the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane.
Government has assured the nation that the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will be able to meet the deadline to set up a partnership with the Post Office for the payment of social grants by next year's Constitutional Court deadline. This follows reports attributed to the chairperson of the Parliaments Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Themba Godi, that SASSA officials have failed to provide details on whether the Post Office will be able to take-over form the Cash Paymaster Services to disburse social grants.
Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asia markets and other economic data we can expect this week.
EMT Analystics , Finacial markets head, Jana Van Deventer, looks at National Treasury bailing out South African Airways once again and main events that markets will be keeping an eye out for?
ANC deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa has urged the newly-elected leadership of the Eastern Cape to unite and heal divisions in the province. He addressed delegates at the provincial elective conference in East London on Sunday. The chaotic conference was characterised by delays, disruptions and clashes that left 28 people injured. Former secretary general, Oscar Mabuyane was elected chairman with a landslide. Lulama Ngcukayitobi is the new provincial secretary. Makhaya Komisa has more...
East London High Court Judge, Belinda Hartley is expected to hand down judgement on Monday in the case of four ANC delegates who want the court to nullify the outcomes of the 8th ANC Eastern Cape provincial conference. Yanga Funani reports.
We look at New Generation Social & Digital Media Awards, the VodacomNextLevel launch, Tributes to Hugh Hefner and a A Grade two learner found with a firearm and live ammunition at Dalpark Primary School on Gauteng's East Rand
27FOUR INVESTMENTS' Nadir Thokan looks at Naspers increasing stake in online food delivery business delivery hero, the impact of Donald Trump's tax cut plan on US equities and the increasing economic pressure china is putting on North Korea.
A Grade two learner found with a firearm and live ammunition at Dalpark Primary School on Gauteng's East Rand is receiving counselling for behavioural change. It is believed that the learner brought the gun to school with the intention of harming another learner. Various incidents of bullying have been reported in the media over the past few weeks, including a learner dying from alleged bullying and a primary school learner injecting other learners with used needles. Education department MEC in Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi says educators should not turn a blind eye to bullying.
Tomorrow (Saturday 29.09) is D-day for South African Airways (SAA) to pay back the one-point-eight-billion-rand owed to Citi Bank. The debt, which was supposed to have been paid already, was extended to the end of September. It is unclear where the money will come from as the Public Investment Corporation is digging its heels, refusing to bail out bankrupt state-owned entities. By last night, Treasury was reportedly still searching for a solution to the SA Airways funding crisis. We speak to Guy Leitch, Editor and Publisher of SA Flyer Magazine
A new bank has been established in South Africa. TymeDigital by Commonwealth Bank SA, has been issued a licence by the South African Reserve Bank to open a bank, that is set to broaden competition in the country's banking sector. The company says it willA new bank has been established in South Africa. TymeDigital by Commonwealth Bank SA, has been issued a licence by the South African Reserve Bank to open a bank, that is set to broaden competition in the country's banking sector. The company says it will launch a full service digital bank in the second quarter of next year. Sandile Shabalala, CEO of TymeDigital by Commonwealth Bank SA next year. We speak to Sandile Shabalala, CEO of TymeDigital by Commonwealth Bank SA .
Statistician General - Pali Lehohla has warned that South Africa is facing a disaster because the economic prospects of 90 percent of the population have not improved. Speaking at a Higher Education Conference in Durban, Lehohla said the biggest driver of poverty in the country is lack of education and barriers to black people completing tertiary qualification.
Lehohla also says chances of a black student graduating are now less than in the 1970's when seen as a ratio of the population. Academics at the conference are taking stock of where tertiary education finds itself two years after the Fees Must Fall movement rocked the country. Dries Liebenberg reports .
A Khoi Khoi woman named Krotoa was one of the first local people to interact with Jan van Riebeeck - the Dutch colonial administrator who founded Cape Town. Krotoa was Van Riebeeck's interpreter, and was instrumental in ending the first Khoi Khoi-Dutch war. But colonial tradition has not smiled kindly on our heroine, who is portrayed as an alcoholic and a woman of loose morals. As we celebrate Heritage Month, Senior Reporter, Candice Nolan explores Krotoa's life story..
Parliament has terminated its contract with KPMG, citing reputational risks. The global auditor has been caught up in a scandal involving the Gupta family. Parliament says the termination includes a contract KPMG has with a medical aid scheme for Members of Parliament. KPMG cleared out its South African leadership this month after damning findings from an internal investigation into the Guptas. We speak to parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo...
Thousands of protestors in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, Northen Cape and the Eastern Cape yesterday joined in the Cosatu nationwide strike. In Limpopo, marchers delivered memoranda to three places in Polokwane, including the premier's office. In Mpumalanga, they marched in Emalahleni and Mbombela. In the North West, a memorandum was delivered at the provincial legislature in Mahikeng. Cosatu in the Northern Cape handed over a memorandum to Premier Sylvia Lucas. In the Eastern Cape, Cosatu members gathered at Vuyisile Mini Square in Port Elizabeth.
A Khoi Khoi woman named Krotoa (pronounced *cra-toe-wah) was one of the first local people to interact with Jan van Riebeeck - the Dutch colonial administrator who founded Cape Town. Krotoa was Van Riebeeck's interpreter, and was instrumental in ending the first Khoi Khoi-Dutch war. But colonial tradition has not smiled kindly on our heroine, who is portrayed as an alcoholic and a woman of loose morals. As we celebrate Heritage Month, Senior Reporter, Candice Nolan explores Krotoa's life story
Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at Capitec earnings that came out yesterday, Saudi Arabia's $12.5 billion debt issuance and the need for ongoing earnings growth in the US and the impact on earnings on a tax cut.
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Trump has announcement on his proposed Tax Reforms and Capitec bank releasing their half year results.
The space for compromise over the 2015 Peace Agreement in South Sudan is narrow, while the parties to the conflict have shown little interest in engaging in serious negotiations on the way forward. So says the head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission to that country, in a briefing to the Security Council. Members also heard that the permanent ceasefire continues to be violated with impunity. The lack of state building institutions and infrastructure is increasingly putting proposed elections next year, in serious doubt. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports:
Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba has given the assurance that state pension funds will not be used recklessly to support ailing state companies such as the SAA. Gigaba addressed the media in Pretoria on Tuesday amid concerns that the Public Investment Corporation was under attack from those who wish to use its funds to bail out struggling state firms. The PIC manages close to two-trillion rand in state pension funds. Gigaba says he takes a very dim view of reports which, he says, drags his name through the mud, regarding allegations of attempted state capture concerning the PIC. Amina Accram compiled this report...
EFF CIC Julius Malema tweets and helps us with connecting the dots in the Public Investment Corporation saga, The City of Cape Town will be installing 51 000 water management devices on properties of those it has identified as the metro's most excessive users and The Government employees medical scheme has come under fire after it was established that a private Public Relations firm, Martina Nicholson Associations, has been have been managing and giving medical advice to patients who think it is a doctor offering free online help.
Business is divided over its support for Wednesday's anti-corruption march by Cosatu. Business Leadership SA is the only formation that has fully endorsed the march. Business Unity South Africa and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry say they will not support the strike, but will respect their workers' right to protest. The labour federation says the marches will be directed at corruption in both the public and private sectors. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
The family of a deputy principal who was shot and killed at Edlinceba Primary School in Duduza on Gauteng's East Rand have expressed shock. The suspects entered the school premises under the pretence that they had an appointment to fix an electric fault. As the deputy principal came out of his office enquire about their visit, he was shot several times and died on the scene. The motive for the attack is not yet know. Police are searching for four suspects in connection with the crime. Guateng Education MEC visited the school and the family on Monday. Wisani Makhubele has more.....
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Janet Yellen addressing markets last night and debate over investing in Emerging Markets or Developed Markets .
Schooling is expected to be affected in some parts of Johannesburg as COSATU embarks on a nationwide strike against corruption and state capture. Some teachers who are members of trade union SADTU have indicated that there will be no lessons at schools. Members of trade union NEHAWU have also confirmed that they will join the action. The main march will be held in Johannesburg where thousands of protesters are expected to walks to various institutions including government offices, the Chamber of Mines and banks.
CardiB now the hottest female rapper after she reached number 1 on the billboard hot 100 for her hit BodakYellow, Bonang has found herself at the top of the Twitter trending list for apparently failing to follow through on a promise to help pay for a student's varsity fees, Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini has lashed out at the provincial government‚ accusing them of failing to pay him what he deserves and Swaziland's King Mswati the third has married his 14th wife, The king's latest wife is 19 years old.
Limpopo police yesterday intercepted four vehicles that were being smuggled across the Limpopo river outside Musina into Zimbabwe . Police say the vehicles were either hijacked or stolen from various parts of South Africa. Over the past 12 months criminals have attempted to smuggle over 100 vehicles across the Limpopo. For more on this we have on the line Limpopo police spokesperson, Lt. Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe
Classes are expected to resume at the Klipspruit West Secondary School, south of Johannesburg, this morning after teachers' union, SADTU agreed to send its members back to teach at the school. Yesterday*, the Gauteng Department of Education dissolved the school's Governing Body in a bid to normalise the situation after several disruptions at the institution in recent weeks.
Communications Minister Ayanda Dlodlo says the SADC region has made some progress in the roll out of Digital Terrestrial Television, DTT. There are only five SADC members' states that have completed the process of migrating to digital while others, including South Africa, are lagging behind. Dlodlo says this process must move with speed. She was addressing the SADC-Broadcasting Conference currently underway in Windhoek in Namibia
The property, which housed struggle icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and earmarked for renovations, remains in a shoddy condition. Madikizela-Mandela was banished to house number 802 in Brandfort in the Free State with her daughter Zinzi from 1977 until 1986. The house was bombed twice while Madikizela-Mandela was staying there. Thabiso Radebe reports..
We look at the decision to take assets offshore and what people should consider as well as the impact of German election on global financial markets with Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers.
Communications Minister Ayanda Dlodlo says the SADC region has made some progress in the roll out of Digital Terrestial Television, DTT. There are only five SADC members' states that have completed the process of migrating to digital while others, including South Africa, are lagging behind. Dlodlo says this process must move with speed. She was addressing the SADC-Broadcasting Conference currently underway in Windhoek in Namibia.. Lulama Matya reports
Twelve baboons have been rescued from the University of Free State following allegations that unethical research was to be conducted on them. The National Council of SPCA (NSPCA) salvaged the animals back into their natural terrain in Limpopo. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Manager responsible for the Animal Ethics Unit at the National Council of SPCA, Erika Vercuiel....
Transport minister, Joe Maswangayi has directed law enforcement agencies to be on high alert after a spate of long weekend crashes claimed at least forty lives. Ten people were killed in Mpumalanga, seven in the Eastern Cape, four in KwaZulu-Natal and two people in Gauteng while deaths have also been reported in the Northern Cape. In Cepe Town, at least 40 drivers have been arrested for driving under the influence with one driver in Caledon being over six times over the legal limit. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Transport department spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi who says the department passenger and pedestrian safety remain a major concern....
Makhosi khoza is trending after she announced her resignation, US President Donald Trump takes mogoe of the week after he called Namibia - Nambia, Media personality Boity has revealed that she has partnered with human limitless to create a body toning supplement pill named after her and Pick 'n Pay, has announced that customers can now buy groceries on credit.
Former ANC MP Makhosi Khoza feels like she had no choice but to leave the ruling party. The outspoken politician announced her resignation from the ANC yesterday. Among her many reasons for quiting - she says she no longer can be led by the illegitimate leadership which has allowed and tolerated corruption. Khoza was facing disciplinary action for openly admitting to voting in favour of the motion of no-confidence in President Jacob Zuma last month.
The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has withdrawn from the Democratic Alliance (DA) led coalition in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. Upon hearing of the intension by PA to withdraw from the coalition, the Nelson Mandela Mayor Athol Trollip reacted on twitter saying that he will not be blackmailed by anybody or any party. All this follows an on-going conflict between the DA and UDM about Mongameli Babani's position as the Deputy Mayor of the Metro. we speak to PA's Marlon Daniels and Nelson Mandela bay metro mayor, Athol Trollip.
We look at Asian stocks fall after North Korea says it may test nuclear bomb in Pacific and the Sasol Inzalo Shares with Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane.
We look at the SARB decision to keep the repo rate on hold, how the ZAR responded to this decision and OPEC meeting today with EMT Analystics , Finacial markets head, Jana Van Deventer.
Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe has likened United States President Donald Trump to the biblical Goliath who threatens the extinction of other countries. Zimbabwe's long-time leader was referring to President Trump's remarks that his country would destroy North Korea if forced to defend itself or its allies during an address to the same body earlier in the week. He urged the U.S. leader to embrace the values of the United Nations Charter in the promotion of peace, unity and greater dialogue. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Former ANC MP Makhosi Khoza feels like she had no choice but to leave the ruling party. The outspoken politician announced her resignation from the ANC yesterday. Among her many reasons for quiting - she says she no longer can be led by the illegitimate leadership which has allowed and tolerated corruption. Khoza was facing disciplinary action for openly admitting to voting in favour of the motion of no-confidence in President Jacob Zuma last month. Noma Bolani compiled this report...
Former ANC MP Makhosi Khoza says she plans to focus on fighting corruption. Khoza resigned from the ruling party yesterday citing the ANC had become alien and corrupt. Speaking to SAFM Executive Producer, Krivani Pillay shortly after the announcement, Khoza says rot in the party is deep set.
SASOL has announced a new BEE Scheme to replace it's failed INZALO share scheme which is due to finish it's 10 year run next year. The company says INZALO shareholders will be able to move into the new Scheme- which is called Khanyisa. Mbongeni Muthwa and Tshepo Mongoai compiled this report...
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa's (NERSA) has approved the consultative process for Eskom's 2018/19 revenue application or tariff increase. Eskom's multi-year price determination cycle will end on March the 31st 2018. The power utility has submitted a revenue application for the period April the first 2018 to March the 31st 2019. It is asking NERSA to grant it a 19-point-nine percent tariff increase for the 2018/19 period. This is a 14-point-three-billion-rand increase, up seven per cent from the previous year. Eskom says it expects to see increases in operating costs and therefore desperately needs the additional funding. Amina Accram reports
Gauteng schools have witnessed a number of shocking incidents in recent weeks resulting in the unfortunate deaths of two learners. More than 28 learners had to receive ARVs after four learners injected them with syringes. A 13-year-old boy died after being subjected to continuous physical bullying at school. And learning and teaching was disrupted yet again at the Klipsruit West High school south of Johannesburg, after some teachers were barred from entering the school. Wisani Makhubele has more...
We look at Asian Markets after Bank of Japan holds steady, Fed signals rate hike and the South African Reserve Bank with Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane.
President Jacob Zuma says the world needs political will to change the structure of the global economy In order to achieve sustainable development and inclusive growth. He was addressing the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly in New York last night. The president also reiterated South Africa's call for the UN member states to dismantle their nuclear weapons and instead to use them for peaceful means.
Kenya's Supreme Court says it nullified last month's Presidential elections because the electoral commission announced unverified results before declaring President Uhuru Kenyatta the winner. In a detailed ruling released in Nairobi on Wednesday, the Supreme Court however said it did not find evidence of vote rigging and that any official of the electoral commission was criminally culpable for the illegalities and irregularities that led to the nullification of the polls. The court also said it did not find any offence committed by Kenyatta. Odinga has welcomed the ruling saying the people's vote must count.
Fruit growers in the Western Cape are crying foul as they are not benefiting from drought relief funding because the money is targeted at livestock farmers. The Provincial Minister of Economic Opportunities, Alan Winde met with them yesterday to discuss drought relief measures. The province has received a 40-million-rand drought relief package from national government, but it is mainly meant for livestock and not plant based farming. What will then happen to fruit farmers? We speak to the Minister of Economic Opportunities, in the Western Cape, Alan Winde
We look at the Inflation data for August ,the US Federal Reserve’s latest decision on monetary policy and expectations for the South African Reserve bank with EMT Analystics , Finacial markets head, Jana Van Deventer.
The ANC's legal battles over legitimacy of elective congresses are far from over. The party's members in the North West are planning to approach the court once again in a bid to nullify the 2015 Youth Lleague elective conference. The members argue that processes leading up to the conference were flawed. The pending legal action comes against the backdrop of last week's decision by the Pietermaritzburg High Court to set aside the KwaZulu-Natal 2015 provincial elective conference. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
In his first speech to the United Nations General Assembly, United States President Donald Trump has threatened to totally destroy North Korea while calling on righteous countries to confront the wicked few. In a highly anticipated address, Trump also called the Iran Nuclear real reached by six entities including the EU, China and Russia an embarrassment to the United States while complaining about Washington's share of the UN budget which at 22% is the largest of any member state. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Man accused of killing Karabo Mokoena, Sandile Mantsoe alleged to have scammed 124 people through Forex trading and a special screening of Inxeba - the wound at Rosebank and V&A waterfront Ster Kinekor cinema's from 15-22 September 2017.
The ANC in Kwa-Zulu-Natal and the Free State have welcomed the decision by the party to halt all provincial conferences. ANC Secretary General Gwede Mantashe has written a letter to all provincial branches saying it has a deadline of September 30 to convene planned elective conferences. This is in preparation for the party's National Conference in December, where a new ANC president will be elected. Mbali Sibanyoni reports…
IFP National Chairperson, Blessed Gwala has told the Moerane Commission that all politically-motivated killings that have not been resolved must be investigated, including ones that took place before 2011. Gwala was testifying before the commission on behalf of the IFP. The Moerane Commission was established by KwaZulu-Natal premier Willis Mchunu to probe political killings in the province since 2011. Fanele Mhlongo reports...
The ANC in Kwa-Zulu-Natal and the Free State have welcomed the decision by the party to halt all provincial conferences. ANC Secretary General Gwede Mantashe has written a letter to all provincial branches saying it has a deadline of September 30 to convene planned elective conferences. This is in preparation for the party's National Conference in December, where a new ANC president will be elected.
Members of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), who were on an underground strike for better salaries at the Kimberley Ekapa Mining Joint Venture (KEM JV), have now agreed to come out. By last night it was not clear exactly when the miners will surface. According to NUM's Kimberley Regional Organiser, Orapeleng Moraladi, a total 158 of their members initially went on an underground hunger strike last Friday for five days. In the five days, 33 had to be rescued due to health complications, while the remaining 125 have now agreed to surface. we speak to NUM President, Piet Matosa.
In his first speech to the United Nations General Assembly, United States President Donald Trump has threatened to totally destroy North Korea while calling on righteous countries to confront the wicked few. In a highly anticipated address, Trump also called the Iran Nuclear real reached by six entities including the EU, China and Russia an embarrassment to the United States while complaining about Washington's share of the UN budget which at 22% is the largest of any member state. We speak to Associate Editor at The Daily Maverick in Johannesburg, Brook Spector.
We look at Asian Markets mixed ahead of the central banks policy meetings. and BitCoin recovers from Friday’s sharp sell off Lehumo Investments CEO Maudi Lehumo also explains what BitCoin is.
we look at the World Bank lowering South Africa’s GDP forecasts for the coming three years and CPI data with MT Analystics , Finacial markets head, Jana Van Deventer.
WARNING: The following story contains graphic description which may upset sensitive listeners including children.
The provision of quality health care in the North West is again under the spotlight with another woman claiming to have suffered the indignity of giving birth unattended at the Jouberton Community Health centre, near Klerksdorp last week. The woman alleges she was forced to give birth in a room unsuitable for delivery. She says was left unattended during labour and her cries for help ignored. When the nurse came, about 45 minutes later, she was ordered to walk to another room with her newborn baby still hanging between her legs. Sisi Segalo reports....
Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi says she does not fear international scrutiny on her government's handling of the growing Rohingya crisis. In her first national address on the violence in northern Rakhine state that has seen more than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims cross into Bangladesh, Suu Kyi added hat most Muslims had not fled the state and that violence had ceased...
Suspicions have once more been raised following a second fire of its kind that destroyed a wing of the Mthatha Magistrate's Court in the Eastern Cape yesterday afternoon. This follows a similar fire at another court building in the nearby town of Mnqanduli where its believed court documents and computer hardware were destroyed. Police spokesperson, Mzukisi Fatyela says all prisoners who were making their appearances in court are back in their holding cells as investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. we speak to our reporter who has been following this story in the area, Zimkhitha Manqinana.
Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs says it expects Minister Hlengiwe Mkhize to brief it soon on her decision to suspend her director-general, Mkhuseli Apleni. Apleni says he will challenge his suspension. He was placed on precautionary suspenson for failing to arrange a meeting between Mkhize, and her staff. Aplenis' lawyer, Sandile July, earlier said his client received a notice of intention to suspend him last week. We speak to the committee's chairperson Lemias Mashile.
Home Affairs Director-General Mkuseli Apleni has been suspended. In a statement, the Home Affairs Minister, Professor Hlengiwe Mkhize stated that Apleni has been placed on precautionary suspension with immediate effective. Reasons for his suspension have so far not been provided. We speak to Apleni's Attorney, Sandile July.
Out of all the companies that have been implicated in the Gupta Leaks on bribery and theft, KPMG has been labelled more destructive. This is according to the Chief Executive of Pan-African Investment and Research Services, Dr Iraj Abedian. Abedian adds that the Auditing firm corrupted the very underpinning of corporate governance and the reputational reliability of the external audit function. He even resigned as a non-executive director of Munich, a company that was using KPMG as their external auditors.
The western cape Transport Minister, Donald grant instructs officials to get a mediator with a legal background to continue with the taxi industry talks, SARS Commissioner defends the SARS rogue unit report compiled by KPMG saying Sars paid for it and thus it still stands and Video of assault on mentally ill teenager emerges.
We look at Asian Markets mixed ahead of the central banks policy meetings, Egypt knocking South Africa from its long-standing top spot regarding investments in Africa and BitCoin recovers from Friday’s sharp sell off.
we look at the main drivers of the recent ZAR weakness and how oil markets have rallied in recent weeks with ETM Analytics , Head of Financial Markets Jana Van Deventer.
Aphiwe Honono takes us through today's trending topics: Awards season has started in the states and #Emmys are trending, SABC 1 airs - Kalushi- Solomon Mahlangu story and American comedian Kevin Hart under fire after confessing to cheating on his wife.
Awards season has started in the states and #Emmys are trending, SABC 1 airs - Kalushi- Solomon Mahlangu story and American comedian Kevin Hart under fire after confessing to cheating on his wife.
We look at Asian Markets opening the week in the positive territory following a record close on Wall Street and Central banks will be in the spotlight this week, with the South African Reserve Bank; the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan releasing policy statement with Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane.
Outspoken ANC MP Makhosi Khoza's disciplinary hearing by the ANC in KZN was yesterday postponed for a second time after she and her representative failed to attend the hearing. Khoza had released a statement over the weekend saying the disciplinary process initiated against her is illegitimate and cannot proceed following the Pietermartizburg High Court's decision that declared the eighth ANC provincial elective conference invalid. The hearing has now been postponed to the 1st of October. We speak to the ANC KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Mdumiseni Ntuli.
Commuters have been left stranded in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats where both taxis and buses are not operating. A number of Golden Arrow buses in the area have been stoned. We speak to Golden Arrorows bus service Spokesperson, Bronwyn Dyke-Beyer and SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni on the situation in Pretoria.
we look at Brent crude has rallies significantly in recent weeks and is trading at its best levels since mid-April and main events to keep an eye out for in the week ahead?
Thousands of commuters in both City of Tshwane and Cape Town may be left stranded due to strike action this morning. This as taxi drivers plan to march to the Union Buildings demanding that their traffic fines be scrapped. The planned strike is expected to affect commuters in Soshanguve, Mabopane , Ga-Rankuwa, Atteredgville and Mamelodi. Taxi owners are however against the planned strike and have committed to not providing their taxis in order for the drivers to blockade roads. Meanwhile, in Cape Town a leadership squabble within Santanco may lead to commuters seeking alternative transport. We speak to Santaco spokesperson, Thabihso Molelekwa
280 workers, who were fired 23 years ago, by the then Midrand Council, will now be employed by the City of Johannesburg. The dismissals, effected in 1994, followed a strike by municipal workers against corruption and nepotism within the council. The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU), in collaboration with the City, believes that this historic bargain will vindicate the honest workers who suffered at the hands of an administration which preferred protecting corrupt officials. We speak to the General Secretary of SAFTU, Zwelinzima Vavi.
Human Rights Foundation - iLungelo Lakho - with the support of the SACP and its Youth League, will picket outside the Johannesburg High Court this morning against evictions and illegal house dispossession. The group, which represents evictees from across Gauteng, says they have been evicted from properties they had occupied for decades under apartheid where black people were denied freehold tittles. They now intend on taking the matter to the Constitutional court alleging their houses are being sold without their notice at below the market value. We Speak to the Leader of the group, King Sibiya .
Rapper Emtee releases new album titled Manando and Bonang Matheba relaunches her book -Form AtoB.
We look at Asian markets after North Korea’s missile launch and Impala Plat has warned of possible job cuts with investment analyst, Lungile Malinga.
We look at our current account deficit widening from 2% to 2,4 % of GDP in the second quarter of 2017. The Rand losing further grounds against the dollar and the pound yesterday and Aspen Shares jumping to 8.5% after company released impressive sets of results with Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane
Apple's new iPhone 8 has been officially unveiled. The latest smartphone, released in Los Angeles, is seen as a radical change for the company, which is seeking to wow users for the 10th anniversary of the device. we speak to Editor of Stuff Magazine, Craig Wilson.
National Treasury is now under pressure to pay 13 billion rand bailout packages in order to save two ailing parastatals. The South African Airways (SAA) is expected to get 10 billion, while the SABC is looking at getting 3 billion from Tresury. This comes as reports have emerged that the extension of SAA Board Chairperson, Dudu Myeni's contarct to November may be irregular. Three months ago, some civil organisations had expressed delight at the announcement by Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba that Dudu Myeni would not serve another term on the board of SAA after the 31st of August. We unpack this with the Chairperson Department of Transport and Supply Chain Management, University of Johannesburg, Professor Jackie Walters.
National Treasury is now under pressure to pay 13 billion rand bailout packages in order to save two ailing parastatals. The South African Airways (SAA) is expected to get 10 billion, while the SABC is looking at getting 3 billion from Tresury. This comes as reports have emerged that the extension of SAA Board Chairperson, Dudu Myeni's contarct to November may be irregular. Three months ago, some civil organisations had expressed delight at the announcement by Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba that Dudu Myeni would not serve another term on the board of SAA after the 31st of August, we speak tothe Chairperson of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, OUTA, Wayne Duvenage.
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts - SCPOA - in Parliamnet is this morning expected to visit SASSA Headquaters to exercise its oversight role over the social security agency. Social Development Minister, Bathabile Dlamini, last week wrote a letter to National Assembly Speaker, Baleka Mbete complaining that Sassa should not be interrogated by Scopa over the new social grant payment contract as it is still at a sensitive stage. In the letter, Dlamini also complained that there is duplication of oversight between Scopa, chaired by Themba Godi, and the portfolio committee on social development, chaired by Rose Capa. Is the visit still on? We speak to Scopa chairperson, Themba Godi
On today's trending topics; Former Minister of higher education Mduduzi Manana plead guilty to three counts of assault, SA's richest man, Johann Rupert says "radical economic transformation" is no more than theft and Comedian and radio personality Tumi Morake lifts the lid on racial slurs she's been receiving since joining the Jacaranda Breakfast radio show.
We look at how are Asian markets doing after China released weaker than expected data points and South Africa saw the release of retail sales and the business confidence figure with Investment analyst, Lungile Malinga.
We look at business confidence in South Africa seeing a marginal increase in the third quarter t of the year but still remained in a subdued territory with seven out of the ten respondents having remained unsatisfied with business conditions in the country, Retail trade sales increasing by 1.8% year-on-year in July 2017 and Brent Crude back at $55 a barrel, this despite figures showing US Oil Inventories grew faster than expected with Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsaone
Sophiatown is one of South Africa's iconic historical sites. During its heyday it was the epicenter of politics, music, creativity and multi-culturalism. It is in Sophiatown where artists, writers and musicians flourished against the odds. As South Africa celebrates Heritage month - one of Sophiatown's well-known residents - Can Themba - who passed away in 1968 is also being remembered. Can - as he was affectionately known - was a teacher, writer and journalist who valued literacy and education. It was through his writing that he not only helped preserve Sophiatown's rich heritage but also contributed to South Africa's literary landscape. Tshepo Phagane reports...
The ANC says it understands the urgency required in making a pronouncement following the outcome of the court judgement made by the Pietermaritzburg High Court yesterday. The court struck down the results of the party's KwaZulu-Natal 2015 elective conference declaring it unlawful and void. The party says it is still examining the legal and political implications of the judgement but has learnt lessons from a similar judgement involving the Free State province before its Mangaung conference in 2012. we speak to ANC Secretary general, Gwede Mantashe
We look at how Asian markets doing this morning after Apple announced its new Iphones and Moody's released a report on SA ahead of its conference in JHB today.
President Jacob Zuma says the National Development Plan will remain an empty promise if it is not linked to the national budget plans. The President was speaking in Cape Town last night on the fifth anniversary of this blue print document.
On Trendswatch today we look at Apple unveiling the iPhone X, iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus. Another sensational Lionel Messi display helped Barcelona crush Juventus at Camp Nou and avenge their Champions League knock-out last season and -The High Court in Pietermaritzburg ruled the outcome of the 2015 KwaZulu-Natal ANC provincial elective conference was unlawful.
we look at tax revenue in the first quarter of the current financial year was R13.1-billion lower than predicted, Standard Bank, has appointed Sim Tshabalala as its first black chief executive after four years of sharing the role, OPEC members considering a further extension to production cuts and APPLE reveals new Products with Lehumo investments CEO, Maudi Lenstaone.
South Africa's golden boy and Daily show host, Trevor Noah wins an Emmy and Gauteng Department of Education intervenes at Klipspruit West Secondary School.
Power supply in the Johannesburg CBD will be restored to full capacity by the end of the day. This as City Power technicians are working around the clock the replace underground power cables. Power supply was severely disrupted in the CBD after criminals gained access to the city's underground electricity cables and stole copper worth millions of rands used to supply electricity. Scores of businesses and thousands of customers have been affected.
Residents of the Fochville area on Gauteng's Far West Rand are becoming increasingly worried about five lions at large in the area. Wildlife experts have warned that the animals could approach human settlements as they grow hungrier. Efforts to find them and trace their owner have drawn a blank. These Fochville community members have urged the authorities to capture the lions as quickly as possible:
Judgment in the court case between five KwaZulu-Natal ANC members and the party's provincial leadership is expected in the Pietermaritburg high court. The five members took the leadership to court, challenging processes leading up to the 2015 elective conference, as well as its outcome. Last month, the court reserved judgment to allow the judges time to deliberate on the evidence before court. The verdict will be delivered by a full bench.
Support continues to pour in for an Eastern Cape mother charged with the killing of one of three men caught allegedly raping her daughter. The woman, who is from Lady Frere, stabbed a man to death and wounded two others after catching them raping her 27-year-old daughter. The mother, who was earlier arrested has since been released on five-hundred rands bail and is expected back in court next month. We speak to Natalie Kendrick, an organizer of of the online support group.
The assasult case surrounding Grace Mugabe, has now taken a new twist with Zimbabwe's First Lady now denying assaulting 20-year-old model Gabriella Engels with an electric cable and instead claiming that an "intoxicated and unhinged" Engels attacked her with a knife. Mugabe makes the claims in a previously unseen statement to the South African police, widely reported by Reuters. Mugabe's statements also claim Engels had been in a fight with other women at a Johannesburg nightclub the night before her encounter with Zimbabwe's First lady. The young model suffered a deep gash to her forehead and bruising to her body during the alleged assault by Mugabe. For a reaction to these latest developments, We speak to AfriForum legal spokesperson, Willie Spies.
We look at how Asian markets doinG ahead of Apples much anticipate iPhone release today and A.V.I year end results with Investment analyst, Lungile Malinga.
We look at rating agency Moody's maintaining a negative outlook for South African banks and how did banks fair in yesterday trade after Moody's report with Maudi Lentsoane, CEO of Lehumo Investments.
Rafael Nadal raced to a third US Open title and 16th Grand Slam crown, Sloane Stephens who won her first Grand Slam title and Idols top 10 is announced.
We look at how Asian markets doing given that North Korea was quiet over the weekend and what to expect this week in terms of economic data points with investment analyst, Lungile Malinga.
The search is still on for a pride of five lions that has been on the prowl in Fochville, west of Johannesburg for days. Initially police and wildlife authorities were hunting for one lion after it was spotted outside the gate of a Fochville resident. Air support was called in on Sunday after residents reported that they had come across a pride of lions in the area. We speak to Drew Abrahamson, from the Captured in Africa Foundation, who is helping to co-ordinate the search.
The Office of the ANC Chief Whip in Parliament says there is nothing suspicious about former AU Commission Chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma becoming an ANC MP as her name is on the party's top 20 national list. But the DA says this is irrelevant. She is expected to be sworn in this week. We unpack what this means with Associate Professor of Political Studies at Wits University, Professor Daryl Glaser.
The Office of the ANC Chief Whip in Parliament says there is nothing suspicious about former AU Commission Chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma becoming an ANC MP as her name is on the party's top 20 national list. But the DA says this is irrelevant. She is expected to be sworn in this week.
The disciplinary hearing for the outspoken ANC MP, Dr. Makhosi Khoza, which was supposed to be held on Sunday in Durban, has been postponed until next Sunday. Khoza's representative asked for a postponement, arguing that he was only appointed by Khoza late yesterday. Khoza did not attend the hearing. The proceedings which was supposed to start at 9h00 at the party's KwaZulu-Natal offices in Durban, started an hour later as Khoza's representative was late. We speak to ANC spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Mdumiseni
An alleged mob justice attack has left the community of Chatty in Port Elizabeth living in fear after a person mistaken for a criminal was burnt alive and his home set alight last week. Mvuyiseko Mfezane, a 32-year old man was burnt in a field near his home by a group of people who claimed to be looking for criminals in the area. His unemployed 60-year old aunt, Thobeka Fezane says she now faces the huge responsibility of raising funds for his funeral whilst taking care of her disabled sons.
We look at the Rand currently trading marginally weaker against the dollar, can we expect the Rand strength to continue? and we also take a look at key economic data we can expect this week.
Police have launched an investigation into last night's attack against app-based taxi drivers. Two Uber vehicles and a metered taxi were set alight. Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo says it appears the attacks are as a result of the ongoing violence between metered taxi and taxi app drivers.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal say they will engage with the National Prosecuting Authority on what charges to lay against the former bodyguards of ANC Ethekwini regional secretary Bheki Ntuli. This after a video emerged showing the two men cocking an AK-47 firearm and making death threats. It is illegal to carry the weapon in South Africa. The bodyguards have since been fired. We speak to KZN Police spokesperson, Brig Jay Naicker.
Political analyst Protas Madlala says the ANC leadership has finally come to terms with the fact that an urgent solution should be found to the politically-motivated killings in KwaZulu-Natal. The party in the province says it will soon meet with all its branches in Mzimkhulu, on the province's south coast, to iron out their differences. This after some leaders were hackled outside the house of the late former ANC Youth League national secretary-general Sindiso Magaqa earlier this week. Magaqa died earlier this week after succumbing to the wounds he sustained when he shot during an ambush in July.
We look at mining and manufacturing data released yesterday, progress on the SASSA grants payment front and the poor mining and manufacturing data with ETF Strategist and Advisor, Nerina Visser.
we look at Asian Markets trading mixed, following a negative close on Wall Street. Chinese economic data is helping support the Chinese Markets and the Rand is stronger despite disappointing Manufacturing and Mining data. with Maudi Lentsoane, CEO of Lehumo Investments.
A crowd funding has been suggested for the Eastern Cape mother who fataly stabbed a man and wounded two others‚ allegedly when she found them gang-raping her 27-year-old daughter. The incident occurred at an unoccupied house in the Qumbu administrative area in Zwartwater‚ near Komani‚ at the weekend. The woman‚ who is from Lady Frere‚ was arrested on Saturday and appeared in the Lady Frere Magistrate's Court on Monday and was released on R500 bail.
She is not being named to protect the identity of her daughter‚ as she is believed to be the victim of a sexual offence.
All fingers have pointed at former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng in the Labour Court in Johannesburg on the matter of the SABC 8. Unions, Solidarity and Bemawu want Motsoeneng as well as former News Executive Simon Tebele and the SABC, to be held liable for the legal costs incurred over the dismissal of the SABC 8. Although Tebele had previously blamed former Acting CEO Jimmy Mathews, he has now blamed Motsoeneng. Angela Bolowana reports.....
EFF leader Julius Malema says he doesn't need anybody's permission to attend the funeral service of former ANC Youth League secretary-general Sindiso Magaxa. Magaxa died at a Durban hospital this week. He was being treated for gun shot wounds. Magaxa and colleagues were ambushed by unknown gunmen at Ibisi in Kwa-Zulu Natal couple weeks ago. Phanuel Shuma reports...
The National Director of Public Prosecution Shaun Abrahams has revealed that there are eight legs to investigations of state capture which the Hawks are currently looking into. Abrahams was briefing the portfolio committee on Justice and correctional Services on the performance of the NPA in the first quarter of the current financial year. He says investigations on state capture are related to allegations made by former ANC MP Mentor Vytjie, former Deputy Finance Minister, Mcebisi Jonas, Transnet and Trillian together with Tegeta and Eskom amongst others. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse's (OUTA) Chief Operating Officer, Ben Theron
Market analyst, Nerina Visser looks at South African Markets following release of 2nd quarter GDP numbers showing that we are officially no longer in recession, poor SACCI Business Confidence numbers released yesterday and rand strengthening this week: why the market declined for a fourth day in a row?
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they trade higher, following a positive close on Wall Street and ECB Policy decision will be a key focus for the markets today.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the National Assembly that he will soon address the controversy around allegations that he was involved in extra-marital affairs. He was speaking in the National Assembly before starting his oral reply session. He also answered questions ranging from train services to the effectiveness of the constitution. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more..
A two-year-old toddler from Bhamshela near Othongathi in northern KwaZulu-Natal has died after being bitten by a rabid dog. Nkosinathi Mzimela was playing with other children when the incident occurred. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in KwaZulu Natal has acknowledged that several cases of rabies have been reported in parts of the province. Hloniphile Fakazi reports.
The number of under-age children that were taken from North West villages to work on Free State farms as seasonal labourers now stands at 50. This was confirmed by the Department of Social Development in the North West when it welcomed 20 of them at children's centres in the province. More than 200 adults from various villages were also found to be working for free and living in squalid conditions, in the Free State. Lucas Mothibedi reports..
The practice of Ukuthwala or arranged marriage, has again surfaced at Ngocbo in the Eastern Cape. This comes just a week after a woman was rescued by the Hawks under similar circumstances. A 17 year-old girl from Clarkebury outside Ngcobo has found herself having to share a bed with an unknown man after a marriage was arranged, allegedly by the man's family. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports…
Twenty municipalities in the country owe Eskom 9.4 billion rand. Seven of the municipalities in the Free State owe Eskom 4-point-four billion rand. The Maluti A Phofung Municipality alone owes 2 billion rand. Ishmael Modiba reports...
China will offer 500-million US Dollars to fund help developing countries tackle famine, refugee crisis and climate change. This emerged at the end of the two-day BRICS leaders summit which was held at the Chinese south-east port city of XIAMEN. Held under the the theme "BRICS: Stronger Partnership for a Brighter Future,", the 9th BRICS summit brought together leaders from China, Russia, India, Brazil including President Jacob Zuma. The leaders adopted a raft of new measures to increase intra-BRICS trade and investment flows and establish broader partnerships on multilateral issues. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng is in XIAMEN and has filed this report...
President Jacob Zuma has condemned the continuing political killings in KwaZulu-Natal. This follows the death of former ANC Youth League secretary general, Sindiso Magaqa, on Monday. He succumbed to multiple wounds sustained when he was shot during an ambush in July this year. Speaking during a visit to the family, ANC NEC member Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma said political killings in the province would only end when party members acted in accordance with their consciences. Dlamini-Zuma and the party's provincial chairperson, Sihle Zikalala, led a delegation to pay their respects to Magaqa's family. Vusi Makhosini reports
As the ANC prepares to hold its 54th National Conference, it says it's still in the process of completing audits in all provinces. Delegates are expected to convene in Gauteng in December when the party elects a new President. Mbali Sibanyoni reports…
We look at the Asian Markets trading lower, following the fall on Wall Street, as investors remained jittery about North Korea and two of the largest economies in Africa are growing again after recessions with Maudi Lentsoane, CEO of Lehumo Investments.
The National Assembly has rejected the DA motion to call for the dissolution of the National Assembly. The motion which was brought by DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen was only supported by Agang and the COPE. Other opposition parties and the ANC were vehemently against the motion. We speak to DA's chief whip, John Steenhuisen.
President Jacob Zuma has called for calm in Lesotho after the army's commander was assassinated. Lieutenant General Khoantle Motsomotso and two other top officers were shot dead in Maseru Zuma says he will meet with Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa - who is the special SADC envoy to the mountain kingdom, to discuss the situation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Foreign editor, Sophie Mokoena.
Additional security has been deployed at the Port Elizabeth home of Nelson Mandela Metro mayor Athol Trollip after he and his wife, Janine, received death threats. In a series of SMS messages Trollip is allegedly called a white pig while his wife is being threatened with rape and murder. Mayoral spokesperson Kristoff Adelbert says Trollip remains undaunted. He says the mayor has tackled corruption, which has angered those who have been allowed to plunder public funds. We speak to DA leader in the Eastern Cape, Nqaba Bhanga.
SARS has hit back at the Tax Ombud by claiming that only less than one percent of all refunds that it processes have been delayed. This after the Ombud released a report stating that it has received more complaints of delays in refunds in the previous financial year since its office was formed in 2014. The ombud classified the delays as being systemic while SARS believes the delays are an exception rather than a rule. The CEO of the Office of the Tax Ombudsman, Advocate Eric Mkhawane says the scope of the delays varies from corporate millions to a few rands to the man in the street. we speak to Group Executive responsible for Tax Relationship Management at SARS, Mark Kingon who says the the findings by the Ombud are not systemic bur rather an exception to the rule.
We look at Asian stocks are trading lower this morning as geopolitical tensions intensifies and the Rand is trading slightly firmer ahead of the release of the 2nd quarter GDP.
The ANC Youth League in KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed the death of its former national secretary-general Sindiso Magaqa. The league's provincial secretary Thanduxolo Sabelo says Magaqa died yesterday after succumbing to wounds he sustained when he was shot in an ambush in July this year. Magaqa was a ward councillor in Umzimkhulu. The provincial government has established the Moerane Commission to investigate political killings in KwaZulu-Natal. It will resume its hearings in Durban on the 18th of this month. Police have also formed a special task team to probe a string of political murders in the province. We speak to ANC in KZN Provincial Secretary, Supa Zuma....
We look at the key findings of the Tax Ombud releasing its report into alleged delayed payments of tax refund by SARS and expectations for 2nd quarter GDP numbers due to be released later today
The Constitutional Court to hear the EFF's bid to force parliament to take steps against president Jacob Zuma for failing to uphold the constitution. The EFF applied for direct access to the Constitutional Court on grounds that the speaker of national assembly Baleka Mbethe failed take action against the president following the court's ruling that he violated his oath of office. This is for failing to implement the Public Protector's remedial action that he pay back the money spent on non-security upgrades at his Nkandla home. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
The outcomes of the MKMVA elective conference which elected Kebby Maphatsoe could be nullified. The MK Council led by General Siphiwe Nyanda and the former deputy chairperson of the MKMVA Ike Moroe has called for an all-inclusive conference of former ANC solders. The conference is planned for the 6th to the 9th of October at Nasrec Expo Centre just outside Soweto. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more..
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Weziwe Thusi, has urged parents to take care of their children. This comes after four children were killed at Ncukeni village outside Port Edward on the south coast, after their mother left them alone at the weekend. Three of the children - aged between four and twelve - were discovered in their beds with numerous stab wounds, while one child was found in the garden. Hloniphile Fakazi reports...
Two teachers at a high school in Botithong near Kuruman in the Northern Cape have been arrested on charges of the attempted rape and sexual assault of female learners. The two and another teacher are further implicated in an investigation by the Northern Cape Education Department into alleged sexual relations with learners. Neo Bodumela reports…
Two teachers at a high school in Botithong near Kuruman in the Northern Cape have been arrested on charges of the attempted rape and sexual assault of female learners. The two and another teacher are further implicated in an investigation by the Northern Cape Education Department into alleged sexual relations with learners. Neo Bodumela reports…
Family members of four children found dead at Ncukeni village outside Port Edward on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast are reeling with shock. Three of the children - aged between four and twelve - were discovered in their beds with numerous stab wounds to the chest, while one child was found in the garden. Three of them had their ears cut off. The childrens' aunt Phakamile Mbhele says their mother usually left the children alone over the weekends with no adult supervision. Bridget Shange compiled this report .
The situation is quiet in and around Vuwani in Limpopo where the community has embarked on a stay away. The Pro-Makhado Task Team is behind the action after accusing government of failure to implement President Jacob Zuma's suggestion that the area should get municipal services from the Vhembe district. Businesses are closed while school children and some commuters are walking to some villages outside Vuwani to get transport. Grades eleven and 12 are starting trial examination today and they are worrided that this will negatively affect them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Limpopo Provincial Government spokesperson, Phuti Seloba ...
The Pro-Makhado Task Team has threatened to once again disrupt services around Vuwani in Limpopo by embarking on a total shutdown today. They are accusing the provincial government of failing to implement President Jacob Zuma's decision that the area should temporarily get municipal services from the Vhembe district. Some residents have rejected the Municipal Demarcation Board's decision to incorporate them into LIM345 and they have been demanding to return to the Makhado Local Municipality. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Rudzani Tshivhase
ANC NEC member Bheki Cele has told the Chris Hani Branch at uPhongolo in northern KwaZulu-Natal that supporting an ANC leader accused of wrongdoing is not unprecedented in the party. According to weekend reports, deputy president and presidential hopeful Cyril Ramaphosa has had a number of extra-marital affairs over the years. He has admitted to one affair but said he had cleared the matter up with his wife years ago. Cele was delivering a Nelson Mandela lecture at the branch which has unequivocally endorsed Ramaphosa to succeed President Zuma at the party's December elective conference. Cele also warned the ANC of the posibility of losing the 2019 general election if it ignores the diagostic report after last year's election which painted it as corrupt, arrogant and socially distant. Vusi Khumalo reports
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser talks North Korea testing nuclear war heads, the domestic political landscape turning nasty and the implications of the escalating tensions between the US and North Korea and news of a big increase in the fuel price this week and impact of Hurricane Harvey wreaking Havoc
ANC Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says he is being targeted within the ANC for taking a stance against corruption. The ANC Presidential hopeful was speaking in Randfontein at an ANC gathering for the West Rand Region, which has thrown its weight behind Ramaphosa for next President. Ramaphosa has been embroiled in a sex scandal which has been published by a Sunday Newspaper, who claim to be in the possession of emails where it is alleged that the Deputy President has been involved in extra-marital affairs with 8 young women. The SABC's Mbali Sibanyoni reports
We look at North Korea testing nuclear war heads, the domestic political landscape turning nasty, and a big petrol price looming on Wednesday, court ruling in Kenya on Friday and Hurricane Harvey with ETF strategist and advsior, Nerina Visser.
The SABC's News Division has submitted its proposed draft of the Editorial Policy to the corporation's board . This is the 6th and the final draft that the division has presented. The public broadcaster has been busy with consultations on reviewing its editorial policy after it was altered without any consultations by its former CEO Hlaudi Motsoeneng. Ike Phaahla spoke to Economics Editor, who is also part of the SABC 8, Thandeka Gqubule...
National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete had her hands full during president Jacob Zuma's question and answer session yesterday. The EFF, who have reversed their earlier decision to boycott the President's sessions, were back in the house. It took more than an hour before the house could really get going. Zambia's opposition leader, Hakainde Hichilema who was sitting in the gallery at the invitation of the Democratic Alliance. He spoke to Ike Phaahla...
National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete had her hands full during president Jacob Zuma's question and answer session yesterday. The EFF, who have reversed their earlier decision to boycott the President's sessions, were back in the house. It took more than an hour before the house could really get going. Zambia's opposition leader, Hakainde Hichilema who was sitting in the gallery at the invitation of the Democratic Alliance. He spoke to Ike Phaahla...
Market Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at the markets following release PPI and what it means climate in SA and the IMF extended credit to Ghana
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they trade positive following a strong Wall Street close and market await the release of the Non Farm Payroll from the US.
Market analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at SA Private sector credit extension growth data is out, US revised Q2 GDP numbers came out with data further emphasising America's growth story and US ADP numbers picture painting for non-pharm payroll numbers at the end of this week
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers talks what's driving Asian markets this morning following China's PMI numbers and the reasons behind evidence presented of an improving Japanese economy
30 learners at Bothitong High School outside Kuruman in the Northern Cape Province are allegedly pregnant. Learners are accusing male teachers at the school of impregnating them. Some teachers are said to be having sex with more than three learners. The learners are allegedly paid stipends for having unprotected sex with the teachers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke SABC's Neo Bodumela...
The Pan Africanist Congress is headed for yet another bitter leadership squabble which threatens the party's future. The recently-appointed party president and only member of parliament, Luthando Mbinda, as well as the secretary general of the party, Narius Moloto, are disputing who rightful custodian of the party is. Both leaders claim that the other has been suspended and ultimately expelled, following disciplinary processes. Back-to-back leadership battles in PAC saw the party's support shrinking to below zero percent during the 2014 general elections. Senior political journalist Amos Phago compiled this report
The Community Policing Forum in Mitchell's Plain on the Cape Flats, has called for a dedicated task team within the police force to deal with the ongoing gang violence in the township. Eight people have been killed in the area in the past week. The fight is apparently between rival gangs from Beacon Valley and the neighbouring Lentegeur township. Chris Mabuya reports..
Presidential hopeful Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma says the private ownership of shares in the Reserve Bank must cease, adding that government must be the sole owner of the shares. She was speaking in Johannesburg at the Gordon Institute of Business Science Forum. Dlamini-Zuma says the objective of a state is to promote and fund black entrepreneurship by providing affordable capital. Tshepo Mongoai reports...
The Moerane Commission has adjourned to mid next month. The commission is investigating political killings in KwaZulu-Natal. Evidence before the commission which has been sitting in Durban, revealed that holding a councillor's position was life- threatening. Representatives of South African Local Government Association shared this view. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
We take a look at the NSFAS accidentally paying a student R14 million, Babes Wodumo and her missing USB, Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso latest charge and Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown giving Eskom a 48-hour deadline to clarify its relationship with Trillian Capital Holdings.
It has emerged that the National Students' Finance Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has erroneously given a Walter Sisulu University student 14-million-rand. A library on the university's Zamukulungisa Campus in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape was torched on Monday night. This follows students' protests related to financial exclusion at the Nelson Mandela Drive and Zamukulungisa campuses. Students claim that a number of them are excluded from the NSFAS programme. The student who got the millions was only supposed to get one-thousand-400-rand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to WSU Spokesperson, Yonela Tukwayo and NSFAS Spokesperson, Kagiso Mamabolo
As rescue efforts at the Kusasalethu mine continued overnight, the mine says challenging ground conditions are slowing down progress. The bodies of three of the miners who were trapped underground following a seismic event at the mine on Friday have been brought to surface. For the latest on the rescue operations for the remaining two miners, we speak to Investor Relations Manager at Harmony Gold Mining Company, Lauren Fourie.
A number of branches in the O.R Tambo region in the Eastern Cape have threatened to interdict the ANC from holding its provincial elective conference scheduled for next month. They've filed papers in the Mthatha High Court challenging the integrity of the O.R Tambo regional leadership. The branches want the provincial leadership to disband the regional leadership on the grounds that some of the members and branches that elected it were bogus. For more detail from the O.R Tambo region of the Eastern Cape
We talk about the impact of North Korea missile launches on the world and financial markets and the impact of Tencent's dominance in china and the impact of a growing Japanese economy on global growth with Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers.
We look at US consumer confidence data highlights and bank of Rwanda plans to increase capital with research analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta.
Finance minister, Malusi Gigaba, says he will institute a forensic investigation into why a one billion rand project at the National Treasury has not yielded any results, after more than 10 years. Treasury's Integrated Financial Management system was started in 2005. Its aim is to bring all financial, supply chain and human resource managements in government under one system. Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts roasted officials for the lack of action over this long period. Zalene Merrington reports...
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at Brexit talks that resumed on Monday, with David Davies expressing concern over slow progress and world first for India with launch of diamond F&O trade...
EFF, which boosts six seat in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro has accused the DA of bullying tactics, stating that non-consultation on the part of the DA may jeopardise other coalitions. This comes as the new deputy mayor of the metro is expected to be announced at the next council meeting. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF Secretary General, Godrich Gardee...
Pravin Gordan has been labelled as a conspiracy theorist who failed as a Minister. This is according to an open letter allegedly written by Duduzani Zuma to Gordan. In the letter, the President's son criticizes Gordan for allowing the national debt to rise from 31 percent to 51 percent under his watch. In the letter, Zuma also warns Gordan that he reserve his right pursue legal action for the harm he has inflicted on him. Gordhan said last night that he has referred the open letter to his lawyers to look at. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Independent political analyst and writer, Dr Dale McKinley..
In the latest developments regarding Eskom Business Day reports that the power utility lied about Trillian payments. According to Business day , Eskom admitted on Monday morning that it had lied to Business Day and other media in June when it said that a review by Oliver Wyman, a management consultancy headquartered in New York, had found the payments to be above board. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Financial Mail Deputy Editor Sikonathi Mantshanstha....
The Moerane Commission investigating political killings in KwaZulu-Natal, has heard evidence from the DA head of the uMgungundlovu East Constituency, Dean Macpherson, in relation to deaths in the Richmond area of the Midlands. He says the killings of ANC councillor Sifiso Mkhize and municipal manager Sibusiso Sithole are politically-related. He told the commission that at the time of Sithole's assassination the deceased had suspended a Richmond municipality official for irregular expenditure. In Mkhize's case, Macpherson alleges that ANC infighting is behind his killing. Meanwhile, Sithole's wife told the commission she was in the dark regarding police investigations into his death. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports..
The Deputy Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro will be announced at the next council meeting. This is after coalition partners in the Metro have refused the re-instatement of councillor Mongameli Bobani as the deputy mayor of the metro. The parties held a media briefing where allegations of corruption against the axed deputy mayor were tabled. Bobani is implicated in the Milongani report, which involves corruption in the public health sector in the Nelson Mandela Bay. Olwethu Matsipane reports...
Sleeping on roadsides in rainy weather has been one of the worst experiences of their lives. That's according to more than a hundred residents - including women, children and the elderly and frail - who have been evicted from housing units at Howell Road at Sydenham - west of Durban. This follows a long-standing dispute with a company managing low cost housing units on behalf of the eThekwini Metro. The residents claim the houses were meant to be RDP government-subsidised houses, but the municipality and First Metro Housing Company are now demanding rent from them. Residents claim some of them, including an 88 year old woman, the disabled and children - have been hospitalised after spending cold nights on the streets. Nhlanhla Nxele reports.
Residents of Burgersdorp and Gavaza villages outside Tzaneen in Limpopo have asked the Fire Prophetic Ministry to leave the area after its leader was arrested for allegedly raping four minors in 2016 and 2017. The local traditional authority held a meeting on Sunday and agreed that the church stop its operations in the area. The self-proclaimed prophet, Confidence Monyela, appeared on Thursday in the Lenyenye Magistrate's Court and his bail application has been postponed to Tuesday...
The African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) has reprimanded its former President Angie Motshekga for allegedly "organising various events around the country under the banner of the ANCWL". The league has accused Motshekga, who is also an ANC NEC member and Basic Education minister, of trying to 'rule from the grave' and showing a lack of discipline. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister Angie Motshekga who denies the allegations saying she had been invited to address events
Delays in the blooming of the wild flowers in Namaqualand in the Northern Cape, have left many tourists disappointed. The region is well-known for its beautiful flowers during spring, which attract tourists from across the world as well as South Africa. But this year, the ongoing drought has had a severe impact on the traditional flower season as Reginald Witbooi reports...
Residents of Burgersdorp and Gavaza villages outside Tzaneen in Limpopo have asked the Fire Prophetic Ministry to leave the area after its leader was arrested for allegedly raping four minors in 2016 and 2017. The local traditional authority held a meeting on Sunday and agreed that the church stop its operations in the area. The self-proclaimed prophet, Confidence Monyela, appeared on Thursday in the Lenyenye Magistrate's Court and his bail application has been postponed to Tuesday. Witness Tiva went to Burgersdorp and sent this report
Afro-pop musician Vusi Nova's manager has confirmed that the artist has been found after being kidnapped during a hijacking outside his home in Melville, north of Johannesburg in the early hours of this morning. The musician whose real name is Vusi Nongxo was kidnapped together with another artist after performing a gig in Soweto. The other artist has also been found and is at the Brixton police station. Nova is a SAMA award winning artist who is famous for his hit song, 'ndikuthandile'. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vusi Nova's manager Lance Stehr...
The United Democratic Movement has threatened to pullout of the coalition government in the Nelson Mandela Bay metro if its councillor and ousted Deputy Mayor, Mongameli Bobani, is not reinstated by Monday next week. Bobani was booted out as the Deputy Mayor through a vote of no confidence in yesterday's council meeting. The UDM has accused the DA of forming a 'side-marriage' with the Patriotic Alliance while COPE and the ACDP, have seemingly gone against their national leadership by also supporting the motion. UDM leader, Bantu Holomisa, in a letter addresed to the coalition partners, says his party will not be dictated to and asked the DA to stop acting like a 'big-brother' in the coalition government. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to UDM leader, Bantu Holomisa and DA Federal Chairperson and Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Athol Trollip...
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Let's start with some good news - the JSE hit new record highs yesterday! What was behind the latest surge, other than Naspers closing above R3,000 for the first time?
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On the negative side, there was quite poor performance by Woolworths, and Steinhoff lost close to 10% in value. What caused this sharp fall?
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From a global economic perspective, I understand all eyes will be on Jackson Hole, Wyoming this weekend. What is the significance of the place, and of the event?
The Democratic Alliance wants Public Relations Company Bell Pottinger to make a full disclosure of its contracts with the Gupta family. This comes after the British -based PR Company was found guilty by the U.K's Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) for breaching its code over work done for the Gupta family. The DA had complained to the Association about Bell Pottinger's campaign that allegedly fanned racial tensions in South Africa. SABC's Tshepo Mongoai reports…
Senior Research Fellow and Political Economist at Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko believes that the controversial transactions at Oakbay and SAA have the potential to drive the country into further economic turmoil. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Research Fellow and Political Economist at Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko
We look at Consumer inflation for July ,the Naspers share price and why is it so important to market watchers with ETF strategist & Advisor, Nerina Visser.
A secret cabinet memorandum document purportedly signed by the Minister of Finance Malusi Gigaba requesting President Jacob Zuma and his cabinet to approve a R10 billion to save the cash-strapped South African Airline was leaked to the DA in parliament. The document also revealed that Gigaba requested for Telkom's assert to be sold for the recapitalisation of SAA. Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa could either deny or confirm the authenticity of the document except to say-if at all the proposal comes to fruition, it will require more debate from all the stakeholders. SAA for so long has relied on government guarantees to obtain loans to fund its loss-making operations. DA MP to whom the secret document dated on the 22 August was leaked surprised the Leader of Government Business the deputy president when he demanded answers both on the authenticity and the content of the said document
We look at Asian markets trading mixed following overnight losses on Wall Street , the Rand weakened after the release of inflation figures yesterday andiInflation now at the lowest level since September 2015 with Maudi Lentsoane, CEO of Lehumo Investments.
Five of the twenty awaiting trial prisoners who escaped while being transported in Johannesburg, have been arrested. The prisoners escaped while being transported in a truck back to the Johannesburg Correctional Services. They had appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrates court on Tuesday on various charges including armed robbery, house breaking and theft. We speak to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Lungelo Dlamini.
DA MP, Alf Lees dropped a bombshell during Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa's question and answer session in parliament yesterday. He revealed that a secret document in his possession shows that government intends to fund Telkom a 10-billion rand bailout for SAA by disposing of shares in other SOE's such as Telkom. The document was leaked to the DA in parliament. This comes as Oakbay Investments has also announced the sale of it's mining unit, Tegeta, which provides Eskom with coal, for almost three-Billion rands to little known Switzerland-based Charles King SA. Asanda Ntame has the details...
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane CE of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they trade mostly lower despite the rally on Wall Street overnight, Shoprite Shares were up 8% after releasing impressive sets of results and retailers in South Africa are under pressure
Parliament's oversight committee on Communications has shortlisted 36 candidates to be interviewed for the SABC permanent board. Among those who have been shortisted are members of the interim board as well as a judge. The names will be published on Parliament's website for a period of five working days to allow the public to comment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke the communications committee chairperson, Humphrey Maxegwana...
ANC Woman's League Secretary General Meokgo Matuba says the league will consult with the people of Marikana to iron out their defferences. This follows the stand off between people believed to be AMCU members and the league members which resulted in ANC presidential hopeful Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma cutting her schedule trip to Marikana short. She had planned to visit the area were thirty four mine workers were killed by the police when residents sent her and her entourage packing. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AMCU president, Joseth Mathunjwa
The Department of Water and Sanitation is hot water for allegations of misuse of millions of tax-payers money on fruitless and wasteful expenditure. In a statement, the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) has expressed its shock that the department was found to have paid some suppliers millions of rands, up to three times using the same invoice. This was revealed when water and sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane appeared before SCOPA on Tuesday to explain the alleged huge financial mismanagement in her department. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Water and Sanitation Nomvula Mokonyane
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser looks at South African markets following news that Eskom will be allowed to claw back around R60bn of back tariffs does not sound like good news, Pres. Zuma has signed the new Twin Peaks Bill into law and the market seemed to brush this off yesterday, putting in a strong performance...
Home Affairs has 14 working days to respond to a list of concerns raised by civil right group Right2Know regarding the newly-introduced Smart Card IDs. The organization alleges the biometric information contained in the new cards is a form of monitoring people and could also compromise their personal information. Right2Know supporters yesterday (Tuesday) marched to the Home Affairs offices in Pretoria to hand over a memorandum of complaints. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Home Affairs DG, Mkhuseli Apleni.
We look at Leading gains is the Hang Seng in Hong Kong and BHP Billiton out with results this morning, slightly missing the expectation with Lehumo Investments CEO, Maudi Lentsoane.
A company owned by Professional Progressive Forum President, Mzwanele Manyi, will acquire the Gupta family's media assets. Manyi says he will finance the deal through vendor finance - meaning the deal will be financed through company's profits. Manyi says he will acquire both the ANN7 TV channel and The New Age newspaper for 450-million rand. For further understanding about the concept of vendor funding and its implications on issues of economic transformation, we speak to Professor of Corporate Law at Monash University, Tshepo Mongalo.
Lawyers association, Advocates for Transformation, has rejected the apology by KZN ANC Chairperson, Sihle Zikalala, after he labelled Advocate Thembeka Ngcukaitobi "counter revolutionay". Zikalala's accusation came after Ngcukaitobi, who has previously represented the EFF in court, represented his political opponents at the Pietermaritzburg High Court. Zikalala took exception to his ANC comrades using a lawyer that has represented other political parties against the ANC. We speak to Advocates for Transformation Chairperson, Anthea Platt.
A company owned by Professional Progressive Forum President, Mzwanele Manyi, will acquire the Gupta family's media assets. Manyi says he will finance the deal through vendor finance - meaning the deal will be financed through company's profits. Manyi says he will acquire both the ANN7 TV channel and The New Age newspaper for 450-million rand. Tshepo Mongoai has the details...
Judgement on the on the coffin assault case sitting at the high court in Middelburg, Mpumalanga has been reserved for Friday. Judge Segopotjo Mphahlele has acknowledged and accepted all the legal arguments from both the state and the defence team. The high court meanwhile has heard that Willem Oosthuizen had his cousin murdered on a farm in recent years. His lawyer, Wayne Gibbs says this is among other reasons why they reacted with anger when Victor Rethabile Mlotshwa threatened to kill their families. And state prosecutor, Robert Molokoane pleaded with the high court that the two accused to be found guilty on all seven counts of the charges. Abongile Dumako reports...
We look at the requirements for a coordinated industrial policy in SADC, what do we need to do differently to increase the chances of success. We also look at challenges relating to land reform and ownership, and lack of access to capital and finance, what are some of the other impediments to the successful establishment of a more inclusive agriculture sector with market commentator, Nerina Visser.
Four men who were allegedly found with human body parts appeared briefly in the Escourt Magistrate's Court in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands on Tuesday. One of the four suspects confessed to cannibalism. Meanwhile Police in KwaZulu-Natal have given the assurance that more arrests are imminent in relation to a human body parts syndicate in Escort on the province's midlands. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
SADC leaders have instructed the Electoral Commission in the DRC to publicise the revised electoral calendar that will take the country to the much anticipated elections. This is part of the resolutions of the 37th session of the SADC Summit which ended in Pretoria on Sunday. The two day meeting also approved the appointment of a former head of state as the special envoy to the trouble-torn southern African country. And as the SADC Chair, President Jacob Zuma will have to oversee the realisation of this resolution with a possibility of elections taking place next year. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Some political parties in Parliament have condemned the government's decision of granting diplomatic immunity to Zimbabwe's First Lady Grace Mugabe to answer charges of assault. The Department of International Relations (Dirco) at the weekend issued a statement confirming that Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane had indeed given Mugabe diplomatic immunity for the alleged assault of Gabriella Engels 2 weeks ago . Lulama Matya reports
Nineteen people have been killed and eleven others sustained serious injuries when their taxi crashed off the bridge at KwaXimba at Camperdown between Durban and Pirtermaritzburg. It is believed that the taxi was carrying 26 church members who were attending an unveiling ceremony of a tombstone of another church member in the area. Fanele Mhlongo and Nhlanhla Nxele report.
Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe has faced a barrage of criticism after returning home from South Africa, where she is accused on assault. Mugabe left the country in the early hours of yesterday morning alongside President Robert Mugabe. Mugabe allegedly attacked Gabriella Engels at a hotel in Sandton.Mugabe has been given a diplomatic immunity by the South African government.
Some political parties in Parliament have condemned the government's decision of granting diplomatic immunity to Zimbabwe's First Lady Grace Mugabe to answer charges of assault. The Department of International Relations (Dirco) yesterday issued a statement confirming that Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane had indeed given Mugabe diplomatic immunity for the alleged assault of Gabriella Engels 2 weeks ago .
The IFP says it wants the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Maite Nkoane-Mashabane to be summoned to Parliament to explain the reasons for granting Zimbabzwe's First Lady Grace Mugabe diplomatic immunity. A number of political parties in Parliament have condemned Nkoane-Mashabe's decision of granting Grace diplomatic immunity. Mugabe is accused of assaulting model Gabriella Engels in a hotel in Sandton, north of Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst from the North West University, Theo Venter
We look at the 37th SADC summit took place in Pretoria over the weekend, but was arguably overshadowed by the focus on Grace Mugabe's diplomatic immunity and the stand-off between SAA and Air Zimbabwe, the BRICS bank is expected to focus more on infrastructure finance, yet its promised loan to Eskom has now been put on ice, we look at the reasons behind this with market commentator, Nerina Visser.
" Coming back to the stand-off between SAA and Air Zimbabwe, it is still unsure if this was related to the diplomatic spat or not, but what we do know is that both these airlines are currently experiencing financial difficulties. State airlines are not something that will be funded by the BRICS bank, so where to next for SAA?
Veteran journalist, photographer and SABC's Radio News Johannesburg Assignment Editor, Zola Ntutu has died. Ntutu was found dead at his apartment in Kennilworth south of Johannesburg. He had been ill for some time. He joined the SABC in the early nineties as a reporter. Ntutu also covered the truth and Reconciliation Commission. His brother Eric Ntutu says the family is still shocked..
We look at how Asian markets doing this after the Barcelona terror attacks yesterday , the JSE was flooded with earnings results yesterday and Standard Bank and Exxaro
We look at standard bank earnings, why it's is dangerous to call a stock market bubble in the U.S. And the investment case for bonds in the current environment with Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers
The civil rights organisation AfriForum and the head of its Private Prosecuting Unit, Advocate Gerrie Nel, have confirmed that they will represent Gabriella Engels who was allegedly assaulted by Zimbabwe's first lady, Grace Mugabe. The 20-year-old model who was accompanied by her mother, Debbie, during a media briefing in Pretoria yesterday, alleges that Mugabe assaulted her with an electricity extension cord at a Sandton hotel last Sunday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Nel...
Former African Union Commission chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma says Zimbabwe's First Lady Grace Mugabe, who's accused of beating up South African model Gabriella Engels, must face the law. Dlamini Zuma was answering questions at the launch of her book on the AU in Durban. Grace Mugabe allegedly used an extension cord with a plug at one end to whip 20-year-old Engels in a Sandton hotel on Sunday. Zimbabwe is attempting to secure diplomatic immunity for Mugabe. We speak to Chris Landsberg, South African Research Chair in African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at the University of Johannesburg on the Diplomatic immunity possibilities.
The ANC Chief Whip in Parliament, Jackson Mthembu says the decision to remove Makhosi Khoza as the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration was taken as a last resort. On Thursday the party removed Khoza with immediate effect, citing what it calls an irretrievably breakdown between her and other ANC MPs serving on the committee. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Makhosi Khoza
The DA says that according to the Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges Act, Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe cannot invoke diplomatic immunity. This as she is not in the country in an official capacity and the immunity extended to Heads of State is not applicable to a first lady. It's understood that Mugabe is now pinning her hopes on using diplomatic immunity to avoid being arrested after allegedly assaulting a young 20-year-old South African woman in Johannesburg on Sunday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to North West University's Professor Theo Venter.
We look at how Asian markets doing this after the release of the US Fed minutes yesterday and ratings agency Moody's coming out with an opinion statement about South Africa with Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga.
Grace Mugabe is still here in South Africa. The Police Department says her lawyers and representatives from Zimbabwe's High Commission are now invoking diplomatic immunity to avoid assault charges. This as discussions continue to ensure Grace Mugabe is prosecuted. It is also understood that Zimbabwe's first lady will continue with her itinerary which includes attending the SADC Heads of States Summit taking place in Pretoria. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police Ministry Spokesperson, Vuyo Mhaga.
Five years since the infamous Marikana killings, a bitter taste of loss still lingers among those who remain. Thousands of mineworkers and political leaders gathered at the infamous Koppie in Marikana in the North West, to honour the 34 Lonmin mineworkers who were tragically were killed on the 16 August 2012. With no arrests and no compensation in sight for surviving families, it seems justice remains a fallacy. Patrick Dintwa reports ..
Kenya's opposition leader, Raila Odinga, has announced that he will move to the Supreme Court to challenge the outcome of last week's presidential elections. Speaking in Nairobi yesterday Odinga said his opposition coalition, the National Super Alliance (NASA) has evidence of massive irregularities that slanted the results in favour of incumbent Uhuru Kenyatta. The electoral commission declared Kenyatta winner of the hotly contested race with 54% of the total votes against Odinga's 45%. International observers described the elections as free and fair. Sarah Kimani reports.
we look at the South African retail sales, the FOMC minutes that came out yesterday and Tencent earnings that came out yesterday with Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers.
The case between ANC members supporting former Premier Senzo Mchunu and the ANC KwaZulu-Natal leadership is going before a full bench of judges in the Pietermaritzburg high court on Wednesday. Five branch leaders are taking the party's provincial leadership to court in the hope of having the outcome of the 2015 provincial conference nullified. During the conference Sihle Zikalala defeated former Premier Senzo Mchunu for the post of provincial chairperson. Vusi Makhosini reports...
Parliament has summoned the Minister of Public Service and Administration Faith Muthambi to appear before it next week to respond to allegations of nepotism and other financial irregularities in her department. Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises also resolved to recover the costs of travelling and accommodation from the minister in her personal capacity including her DG. Muthambi snubbed the committee yesterday where she was expected to account on various allegations. Committee Chairperson Makhosi Khoza says despite having met Muthambi in parliament yesterday - the minister never said a word that she would boycott the meeting. It also emerged that five ANC members of the committee boycotted the meeting too. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report.
Police say no warrant of arrest has been issued against Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe. Mugabe failed to arrive at the Sandton police station north of Johannesburg where she was expected to hand herself over to law enforcement authorities. This after she allegedly assaulted a 20-year-old model Gabriella Engels with an extension cord at a Sandton hotel on Sunday. Engels has since opened an assault case against Mugabe. Tshepo Phagane reports.
Today marks the 5th anniversary of the Marikana tragedy, during which 34 mineworkers were shot and killed by police at the Koppie near Wonderkop outside Rustenburg in the North West. Workers, who were mostly AMCU members, embarked on an unprotected strike demanding a salary increase to 12 500 rand per rands per month
We speak to Investment Analyst Lungile Malinga on how Asian markets doing this after the release of the US retail sales figure on Tuesday, more light into the US retail sales figure and what can we expect today from our local retail sales figure?
Police say no warrant of arrest has been issued against Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe. Mugabe failed to arrive at the Sandton police station north of Johannesburg where she was expected to hand herself over to law enforcement authorities. This after she allegedly assaulted a 20-year-old model Gabriella Engels with an extension cord at a Sandton hotel on Sunday. Engels has since opened an assault case against Mugabe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brigadier Vish Naidoo
Efforts by Santaco's leadership in Tshwane to stop a strike action by their members in the region have failed. The taxi council announced on its twitter page yesterday that it would embark on a strike action this morning. We speak to SANTACO spokesperson, Thabisho Molelekwa.
Market Analyst, Nadir Tokhan of 27-Four Investment Managers looks at South African markets as prospects for Resources companies improve and the big drivers of returns there, why Japan GDP growth numbers that came out relevant and an update on BREXIT and where we are in the negotiation process.
Market Analyst, Lungile Malinga talks Asian Markets as political tensions ease after North Korea's Kim Jong Un's statement and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's recent report about South Africa and its growth prospects.
The ANC leadership in Mpumalanga and Limpopo is urging the party to avoid deepening divisions and factionalism ahead of the 54th national conference. The two provinces have also agreed to persuade other provinces to consider an uncontested succession in order to forge unity. The two provinces held a joint meeting in Polokwane. Jabulani Baloi reports...
President Jacob Zuma is to take over from Swaziland king, Mswati as SADC chairperson at this week's 37th SADAC Summit of Heads of State in Pretoria. King Mswati has hailed SADC members of states for providing necessary support during his twelve-month tenure. The king says there is progress made in promoting economic growth, peace and stability in the region.Motsebi wa Monareng reports
Three suspected robbers have been killed and one seriously injured in a shoot-out with the police. This comes after a security guard from a cash in transit van was robbed of two cash boxes at a garage in Hillcrest in Durban. The robbers fled the scene in a blue Citi Golf. Hloniphile Fakazi reports..
That ANC's National Working Committee met overnight for the first time since President Jacob Zuma survived a motion of no confidence in Parliament last week. President Zuma wants the ANC to identify and and discipline Members of Parliament that voted with opposition parties. This call has also been supported by the party's Youth League in KwaZulu Natal while police minister Fikile Mbalula who called for lie detectors to be used to identify the MPs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst and author, Ralph Mathekga
Gauteng Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkhosi-Malobane has instructed law enforcement agencies in Gauteng to investigate the assault case of Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe and ensure that justice is served. This after allegations surfaced by a young South African women that Mugabe assaulted her at a Sandton Hotel. It's understood that Mugabe attacked the woman after finding her with her two sons. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane
President Jacob Zuma says the ANC's constitution, specifically the section that speaks to acts of misconduct by members, needs to be applied. He was responding to the ANC-Youth League's call for the organisation to take disciplinary action against the 26 ANC MP's who voted in favour of the motion of no confidence to topple him last week. Addressing the cadres forum organised by the ANCYL at Pongola in the northern KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma said the party's top six will discuss the conduct of those 26 ANC MP's who voted in favour of the failed motion of no confidence in the President. Vusi Makhosini reports…
We look at regulatory risk in Naspers, the impact of North Korea tensions on the market and the risk of an ETF bubble with Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers, Nadir Tokhan.
Unconfirmed reports in Zimbabwe claim that Zimbabwean Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been rushed to a South African hospital after he started vomiting while attending President Robert Mugabe's rally in Gwanda at the weekend. We speak to our Correspondent in Zimbabwe, Ephert Musekiwa.
We look at how Asian markets after release of Chinese and Japanese data points this morning and talk to "lack of trust" between the private and public sector with Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga.
Social media users went on a rampage yesterday following comments by the Minister of Social Development allegedly defending Deputy Minister Mduduzi Manana's assault on women. Minister Bathabile Dlamini allegedly told one of the weekend papers that she will not call for Manana's head as he is not the only one accused of the abuse of women and that the issue was just being used as a political ploy. Meanwhile two other high profile personalities, Shaka Sisulu as well as Marks Maponyane have been found on the wrong side of the law with allegations of assaulting women. Are we experiencing an increase in Gender based violence and are perpetrators in powerful positions getting protecetion? To answer this we speak to Advocate Palesa Mpapa, a Human Rights Activist and Legal and Advocacy Manager at People Opposed to Women Abuse.
Team South Africa has flown the country's flag high in the London's IAAF Championships which concluded last night. Caster Semenya bagged another gold in the finals of the 800m race bringing the total number of medals coming home to six. Semenya had initialy won bronze in the women's 1500m race while Wayde Van Niekerk won gold in the 400m race and silver and the silver in the 200m race. Luvo Mayonga also won gold in the long jump while Ruswahl Samaai bagged a bronze in the same event.
Market Analyst, Jana van Deventer of ETM Analytics looks at South African Markets following release of Mining and manufacturing production data for June, prospects for Q2 GDP and credit rating review update from Moody's...
Parliament has reiterated that it is impossible to trace how individual MPs voted during this week's motion of no-confidence in President Jacob Zuma. This follows calls from some in the ANC that those who didn't follow the party line, should be identified and dealt with. Twenty-six ANC MPs voted in favour of the motion, and nine abstained. This is despite a party instruction that all ANC MPs should vote against it. Zalene Merrington has more
The opposition in Kenya has urged the authorities to declare its leader, Raila Odinga, the winner of Tuesday's Presidential poll. At a news conference a spokesperson from Odinga's alliance, said un-named sources within the electoral commission have told them that Odinga had gained more votes than the current president Uhuru Kenyatta. The provisional electronic results put Kenyatta ahead by a clear margin. The SABC's correspondent in Kenya, Sarah Kimani
Gauteng health MEC Dr Gwen Ramokgopha says leaders caught up in gender based violence need to own up to their actions. She was speaking to journalists at a Women's Day event in Pretoria. On the issue of deputy higher Education Minister Mduduzi Manana who admitted to assaulting a woman at a Fourways night club in Johannesburg, she says an apology is not enough and justice must prevail. Phumzile Mlangeni has more...
Hundreds of mourners packed the Hope Restoration Ministries Hall in Kempton Park, east of Johannesburg, for the memorial service of slain Rhythm City actor, Dumisani Masilela. 29-year old Masilela was shot during an attempted hijacking in Tembisa. He died last week Thursday in hospital. Ditaba Tsotetsi compiled this report...
Market analyst, Jana van Deventer of ETM Analytics looks at South African markets as they closed for Women's Day yesterday and Statistics SA to release the June mining and manufacturing production data
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets as they remain jittery amid heightened North Korea tensions, the US 2nd quarter earnings are drawing to a close and the focus will now shift to the Chinese earnings, in particular the banking sector which has been on the spotlight with regulators worried about a potential crisis
Leader Mmusi Maimane says he will today table a motion to have parliament dissolved in an attempt to have early elections. This follows the failed motion of no confidence debate in President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday. Maimane was speaking at a press briefing held yesterday in Cape Town. He says an early election could afford South Africans a way to express their views about President Zuma's presidency. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Dumisani Hlophe...
Four people have been killed in election-related violence following a vote in which Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta held a strong lead despite opposition claims of rigging. Opposition leader Raila Odinga has accused hackers of allegedly breaking into election commission computer systems, leading to what he calls massive fraud. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC correspondent, Sarah Kimani
Police in Kenya fired tear-gas on Wednesday at a group of 100 chanting supporters of Opposition leader Raila Odinga in Kisumu one of Odinga's strongholds. The protests took place shortly after the NASA presidential candidate claimed the polls were rigged. This comes after the government said police would remain on high alert as the elections results are being tallied. The East African country went to the polls on Tuesday to elect a president. The SABC's Sarah Kimani has more.
As the country gears up to commemorate Women's Day in Kimberley in the Northern Cape today, South African women are still facing serious challenges. Gender based violence and the socio-economic status of women remain issues. Neo Bodumela reports...
President Jacob Zuma has slammed opposition parties for trying to unseat him, saying the ruling ANC is undefeatable. The president was addressing scores of ANC supporters outside Parliament after a majority of MPs voted to keep him in power. Mlamli Maneli reports...
Opposition parties in Parliament are celebrating the outcome of the motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma. This, because for the first time ANC MPs voted in favour of the motion. Results show that 177 MPs voted in favour of the motion, 198 against and nine abstained. There are 150 opposition MPs in the House. Zalene Merrington reports...
Roads agency Sanral says it could take as long as two days for engineers to clear debris following a bridge collapse on the N3 freeway in Germiston, east of Johannesburg. Several people were injured when the overhead pedestrian bridge collapsed onto the freeway in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Three trucks and a vehicle fell onto the bridge, with emergency services having to use the Jaws of Life to free trapped people. The N3 remains closed between the Gillooley's and Geldenhuys interchanges. Motorists trying to reach O.R. Tambo airport are advised to use the Buccleuch interchange and the R24. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to JMPD spokesperson, Wayne Minaar
DA leader Mmusi Maimane will hold a news conference later today on the way forward following yesterday's failed motion of no confidence against President Jacob Zuma. The motion was defeated when results showed 177 MPs voted for the motion and 198 against it, with nine abstentions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA spokesperson Phumzile Van Damme
Kenya's opposition leader Raila Odinga has rejected the presidential election results which indicate an early lead for President Uhuru Kenyatta citing massive irregularities. Odinga has termed the Kenya's 2017 General election a fraud. Preliminary results indicate that Kenyatta is in the lead by 1.2 Million votes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sarah Kimani
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as trade lower, in response to disappointing Chinese Trade Data for July and the Rand gains after Baleka Mbete announced the Vote of No Confidence in President Zuma will be conducted via a secret ballot
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics looks at South African markets after speaker of parliament Baleka Mbete's announcement on no confidence vote against President Jacob Zuma and Q2 labour market data
Motorists are warned to be cautious when driving around Johannesburg as majority of roads have been blockaded with burning tyres. There are no protestors on sight. But authorities say this is linked to this afternoon's motion in the President. President. Roads are blocked from Soweto, Johanneburg south and central, Orange Farm, Kagiso on the West rand to Tembisa on the Eastrand. Metro police have had their hands full trying to put down the fires. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Johannesburd Metro police's Edna Mamonyane
Three marches have been planned in the City of Cape Town on Tuesday ahead of the vote-of-no-confidence debate against President Jacob Zuma in Parliament in the afternoon. The city has granted permission to more than 20-thousand people to march. Thousands also marched in the CBD on Monday in support of the motion. Mlamli Maneli reports...
Johannesburg Finance MMC Rabelani Dagada says the majority of residents' rate bills are only estimates. He says the biggest reason for the city's current billing crisis is that there's no physical reading of meters. This follows the ANC's claims that Johannesburg was on the brink of collapse because it's in a financial mess. Tshepo Phagane has more...
Polls have opened in Kenya, in this year's hotly contested presidential elections. Over 19 Million eligible voters are casting their ballots in a tight race between President Uhuru Kenyatta and his political rival Raila Odinga. There are six other presidential candidates. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Sarah Kimani
There are mounting calls for Deputy Minister of Higher Education Mduduzi Manana to resign after he allegedly assaulted Mandisa Duma and her cousin at Cubana Lounge in Fourways, North of Johannesburg. Manana released a statement apologising for his actions saying he should have restrained himself despite extreme provocation. But civil organisations, political parties and social media have called for his head. Nomsa Mdhluli reports.
Authorities are warning motorists travelling in and around Soweto and Turfontein this morning to be cautious due to community protests. Its not clear what the protests are about but several roads have been blockaded. Johannesburg Metro police officers have been deployed to both areas.For more on this we are joined by Johannesburg Metro Police's Edna Mamonyane.
The speaker of Parliament, Baleka Mbete, will announce her decision on whether or not a secret ballot will be used in tomorrow's motion of no confidence against President Jacob Zuma. This as opposition parties have accused Mbete of delaying the pronouncement. . The UDM and EFF, who want the voting to take place in secret, argue that many ANC MPs would be inclined to vote in favour of the motion if it is done is secret. SACP, a tripartite alliance partner with the ANC and COSATU has come out saying it will not support President Jacob Zuma in the motion of no confidence tomorrow. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ACP'S First Deputy General Secretary, Solly Mapaila
An assault case has been opened against Higher Education deputy minister Mduduzi Manana. Manana allegedly assaulted two women at a Johannesburg night club over the weekend. Eye witnesses say the Deputy Minister was sitting at the same table with the women when they were engaged in an argument. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Phesheya Duma who is the brother of woman allegedly assaulted by deputy minister
The speaker of Parliament, Baleka Mbete, will today announce her decision on whether or not a secret ballot will be used in tomorrow's motion of no confidence against President Jacob Zuma. This as opposition parties have accused Mbete of delaying the pronouncement. . The UDM and EFF, who want the voting to take place in secret, argue that many ANC MPs would be inclined to vote in favour of the motion if it is done is secret. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Professor Somadoda Fikeni
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets as they opened the new week positive following a positive close on Wall Street and the United Nations announcing on Saturday further sanctions against North Korea.
Market Analyst, Jana van Deventer of ETM Analytics looks at an eventful week for South Africa both in terms of data and political events and the key events to keep an eye out for this week and focus will rest on the motion of no confidence against Pres. Zuma in parliament tomorrow
An assault case has been opened against Higher Education deputy minister Mduduzi Manana. Manana allegedly assaulted two women at a Johannesburg night club over the weekend. Eye witnesses say the Deputy Minister was sitting at the same table with the women when they were engaged in an argument. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Phesheya Duma who is the brother of woman allegedly assaulted by deputy minister
Police minister Fikile Mbalula has stated that Deputy Minister of Higher Education Mduduzi Manana would not be given special treatment in dealing with a case of assault which has been opened against him. Manana is understood to have assaulted two women over a debate about the ANC leadership race. However, on social media reports have emerged that he allegedly hit the women because one of them called him gay. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Lumko Jimgolo who was a says he witnessed to the assault
The South African Human Rights Commission will criminally charge President Jacob Zuma's son‚ Edward‚ despite his apology for the vitriolic open letter in which he attacked senior ANC leaders Pravin Gordhan and Derek Hanekom. Last week Edward Zuma, in the open letter, called Gordhan a 'stooge of white monopoly capital' and described Hanekom as an 'Afrikaner askari'. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAHRC CEO, Tseliso Thipanyane
Former cabinet minister Ronnie Kasrils has rubbished police claims at the Ahmed Timol inquiry in Pretoria that the then banned ANC and SACP encouraged members to commit suicide if they were captured and tortured by apartheid police. Kasrils also dismissed as a fake the INKULULEKO -FREEDOM document produced by apartheid security police as evidence that liberation movements encouraged members to commit suicide if cornered. A Johannesburg businessman who saw a body falling from the notorious John Vorster Square Muhammad Ali Thokan's evidence also contradicted the police version. Neo Makwiting reports.
The family of Dumisani Masilela says they are struggling to come to terms with his death. 29 year old Masilela was admitted to hospital on Wednesday night after he was shot during what police believe to be an attempted hijacking in Tembisa, east of Johannesburg. Masilela is best known for his role as Sifiso Ngema on Etv soapie Rhythm City. After a car accident sidelined his professional soccer career at SuperSport United and after more than three years of rehabilitation he entered the eighth season of the M-Net singing competition Idols, in 2012. Ditaba Tsotetsi visited the family and filed this report...
A look at Asian markets , Job numbers expected from the USA and Sibanye Gold announced plans to cut jobs as it closes down two of its mine with Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga.
The South African Policing Union has threatened to intensify their strike action, which resumed yesterday, following failed attempts to end their dispute with SAPS management. 10 111 operators have indicated that they have sought intervention from government and that effort yielded no results. The countrywide strike action was temporarily suspended in mid July as both parties attempted to find a mutual resolution. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier, Vishnu Naidoo
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have confirmed that another woman has been gunned down at the notorious Glebelands hostel in Umlazi south of Durban. Police spokesperson Thulani Zwane says the 30 year old woman was shot dead at the hostel last night. He says the victim was shot when unknown suspects entered her room and shot her. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe
We look at announcement by Bank of England about the UK's monetary policy and what we can expect to see from the US non-pharm payroll that's being released today with Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta.
Investment Analyst,Lungile Malinga looks at Asian markets ahead of the Bank of England's interest rate decision and why there are reports that South African companies are sitting on more and more cash on their balance sheets
Residents of Mgobodzi in the Nkomazi local municipality in Mpumalanga allege that they last had clean running water in 1998. The angry residents embarked on a march to the Nkomazi local municipality, yesterday. Vusi Twala reports...
Lawyers representing the injured mine-workers and 34 widows of slain miners who were shot and killed by police in Marikana in August 2012 say the state is yet to pay out the 1-billion rand compensation that was agreed on. At least 3-hundred and 25 claims have been made for a loss of support as a results of death of loved ones. Further claims include that of injuries as a result of shootings, wrongful assaults, unlawful arrests and detention. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi filed this reports.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, says there is no justification for the excessive rates cellphone service providers charge for out of bundle data rates. Icasa management appeared before Parliament's Select committee on Communications and Public Enterprises on reducing the cost to communicate. MPs heard that bundle data gets charged at between two and six cents, while out of bundle data charges shoot up to more than two rand per bundle. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Icasa councillor, Keabetwe Modimoeng
We look at the ADP Payroll in the US came out yesterday, how the job data performaned in July and the Venezuela political and economic crisis- how has this affected the their financial indicators with Research Analyst- Fundiswa Nkuta.
Market Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Asian markets after their positive GDP numbers from Europe yesterday and Moody's statement regarding the South African Reserve bank and risk of a possible downgrade again
It's only six day to go before Parliament votes on the motion of no confidence against President Zuma. The Speaker of Parliament Baleka Mbete has not made her decision known on whether she will allow the secret ballot or not. What will happen should the motion no confidence succeed or fail? To help us make sense of this, we speak to Advocate Paul Hoffman, he is a Constitutional Law expert and Director at an NGO called Accountability Now.
Former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng is challenging his dismissal from the public broadcaster. This emerged during a progress report which was tabled by the interim board chairperson, Khanyisile Kweyama in parliament yesterday. Meanwhile, parliament 's communications portfolio committee says a new permanent board is expected to be in place by the time the interim board's term of office comes to an end next month. we speak to Committee chairperson, Humphrey Maxegwana.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS, has officially opened applications for funding for the 2018 academic year. The launch was held in partnership with the National Youth Development Agency. The NYDA will provide over 100 centres country-wide to assist with applications. Prospective learners can apply on the NSFAS website or at the NYDA offices. Applications will close on the 30th of November.
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at South African markets after release of improved trade data, release of private sector credit extension and Moody's weighs in on SARB decision to cut interest rates
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Asian Markets as the Chinese Private Sector PMI numbers come in above expectations and yesterday Pick n Pay says it cut about 3500 jobs
President Jacob Zuma says his government is committed to rooting out the scourge of corruption in the country. This is as a group of civil society organisations under the banner of " Future South Africa" mounts pressure for him to step down. On Monday night President Zuma addressed a gala dinner hosted by the African Farmers Association of South Africa in Boksburg on the east Rand. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report....
A senior Kenyan election official who went missing was found murdered on Monday three days after he was reported missing, the Electoral Commission chairman has said. Chris Msando, the Information, Communications and Technology manager was tortured and killed under unclear circumstances. Commission Chairman Wafula Chebukati has now demanded security for all members of the commission. Kenya goes to the polls next on Tuesday week, amid fears of post election violence. Sarah Kimani reports.
Former SABC COO of the SABC Hlaudi Motsoeneng is taking his case to the CCMA on Tuesday. He was dismissed in June following a disciplinary hearing after holding an unauthorised media briefing in April. Motsoeneng has been found guilty of bringing the public broadcaster into disrepute. He's challenging his dismissal as Angela Bolowana reports...
There has been an alarming increase in medical schemes fraud. Medical schemes could face collapse if fraud is continues unchecked. This is a warning from the Board of Healthcare Funders. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to representative from Medscheme, Dr Gregory Pratt
The DA has written to the Justice minister, Michael Masutha in an attempt to have convicted fraudster, Schabir Shaik's parole reviewed. Shaik was released on medical parole from imprisonment after serving just over two years of his 15-year-sentence. DA spokesman on correctional services James Selfe says he does not believe that Shaik was ever in the final phase of any terminal disease or condition. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA spokesman on correctional services James Selfe and aw lecturer from the University of Cape Town, Professor Cathy Powell...
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says to end violence against women and children, South Africans need to confront the concept of patriarchy in all its manifestation. He was speaking at a special sermon on the No Violence against Women and Children at the Rhema Bible Church in Randburg, north of Johannesburg. Organisers say they want to create awareness of the abuse of the vulnerable groups in society and to support the 16 Days of Activism Campaign. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Sports and Recreation Minister Thulas Nxesi will establish a Ministerial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the stampede that led to the deaths of two people during the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at the FNB Stadium on Saturday. The commission's terms of reference and powers will be set out before the end of the week. Those found guilty of violating the National Sport and Recreation Act will be dealt with accordingly. Lebohang Dube reports
Police Minister Fikile Mbalula has warned South Africans particularly young women to stay away from false social media adverts that could land them in the hands of human traffickers. This after a twenty four year old Bloemfontein woman was rescued from an international human trafficking syndicate in Malaysia. Mbalula addressed members of the media in Johannesburg. SABC's Horisani Sithole has more
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Asian Markets as the Chinese PMI numbers come in slightly below expectations, talk of Tobacco shares being under pressure on Friday and important data points to look out for this week
Research Analyst- Fundiswa Nkuta looks at South African markets as oil prices continue to rise and the outlook going forward and contributors to positive performance of US GDP growth
Sports and Recreation Minister Thulas Nxesi will establish a Ministerial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the stampede that led to the deaths of two people during the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at the FNB Stadium on Saturday. The commission's terms of reference and powers will be set out before the end of the week. Those found guilty of violating the National Sport and Recreation Act will be dealt with accordingly. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAFA CEO, Dennis Mumble
Former Ekurhuleni mayor and ANC Member of Parliament Mondli Gungubele says he finds it hard to have confidence in President Jacob Zuma. Gungubele joins a number of ANC MP's who have called for Zuma to step down. Gungubele, including ANC MP, Makhosi Khona says he will vote in favour of the motion of no confidence which is to be heard in Parliament next month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mondli Gungubele
The EFF has been in Parliament for more than three years. The four year old party that won over a million votes during the 2014 National Elections has changed the way parliament operates.
The month of July was highlighted as 'savings month'. It was also announced that the repo rate was to be decreased which would offer consumers an opportunity to increase their savings. However a question on many lips is - how do I go about saving if I don't have that extra cash. Spokesperson for the South African Savings Institute, Gerald Mwandiambira....
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi also wants the headmaster of the prestigious St John's College in Johannesburg to be fired. Principal Paul Edey defended a geography teacher after he was found guilty on three charges of misconduct, including racism against Black, Indian, Greek and other foreign students during an internal disciplinary hearing. Lesufi says the teacher, who he has not named, has been fired. However, St John's College says the tacher has resigned with immediate effect. Nhlanhla Makenna, a former St John's student and head of school in 2006....
ANC Treasurer General Zweli Mkhize has challenged the governing party's leaders who are implicated in the so called "Gupta Leaks" to stand up and clear their names. The emails released in instalments by several media houses between the Gupta family and several senior government leaders, including ministers as well as President Jacob Zuma, are said to contain information which proves that the Gupta family has captured the state. Meanwhile EFF leader, Julius Malema says the National Prosecuting Authority has become powerless and that real cases of corruption are not being dealt with. Elvis Pressilin Spoke to Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi & Lawson Naidoon, executive secretary at the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution...
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at Asian Markets in the wake of Japan consumer inflation stats showing June at 0.4% and Australian dollar trading above 10 rands
ANC treasurer general Zweli Mkhize has challenged the governing party's leaders who are implicated in the so called gupta leaks to stand up and clear their names. He was speaking at the OR Tambo memorial lecture in Katlehong east of johannesburg. The emails which have been released in installments by several media houses contain communication between the Gupta family and several senior government leaders including ministers as well as president Jacob Zuma. Its believed that information contained in the emails prove that the Gupta family has captured the state. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27Four Investment Managers looks at South African markets following release Amazon and Anglo American earnings and UK announcement that no diesel or petrol cars to be sold by 2040
Members of the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA) at national parks have embarked on a strike for higher wages. Workers on strike included rangers, field guides, cleaners and security guards. The strike was suspended last week after SA National Parks tabled a new offer of 6,1 percent. SANParks runs 19 national parks including prime tourist resorts Kruger National Park, Table Mountain National Park and the Karoo National Park.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to HOSPERSA General Secretary Noel Desfontaines
The City of Cape Town has approached courts to compel Energy Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi to grant it permission to buy the renewable energy. This comes after a three-year-battle between Kubayi and the city over the matter. The city has set a target to get at least 20 per cent of energy from renewable sources by 2020. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Energy Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi
The City of Cape Town has taken Energy Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi to court to force her to give it permission to buy renewable energy. This comes after a three-year-long battle between the city and Kubayi's office over the matter. The city has set a target to source at least twenty percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to City of Cape Town Mayor, Patricia De Lille
Eskom has placed its chief financial officer, Anoj Singh, on precautionary suspension‚ pending the outcome of a forensic investigation. The suspension follows an urgent intervention by Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba and his counterpart at the Department of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown.This comes after Eskom faced a threat from the Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA) to recall its R15-billion loan if no action was taken against Singh and other Eskom officials responsible for the beleaguered parastatal's qualified audit opinion. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to energy expert Chris Yelland
ANC MP Makhosi Khoza has confirmed that she has declined security protection offered by government. The ANC MP has been receiving death threats after she supported a secret ballot during the No Confidence Motion in President Jacob Zuma, scheduled for August the Eight. She has also called on the President to step down. Yesterday, the Kwazulu-Natal ANC charged her with ill-discipline and for bringing the party into disrepute. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst from the University of Kwazulu-Natal, Lukhona Mnguni.
In response to the charges levelled against ANC Member of parliament, Dr Makhosi Khoza by the ANC in KZN, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) says Khoza is simply echoing what the Union and millions of South Africans have been saying. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Spokesperson for the Union COSATU, Sizwe Pamla
Market Analyst, Nadir Tokhan of 27-Four Investment Managers looks at South African markets as Federal bank decide to interest rates on hold and Sasol earnings and Samsung earnings out
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets amid positive open in Asia following a record close on Wall Street and Facebook shares traded higher following the release of its quarterly results.
Four illegal miners have died in after a rockfall at the dis-used Agnes Mine outside Barberton in Mpumalanga. It is alleged that the incident occurred shortly after a blast took place at the mine. Police have now once again called on the residents to refrain from mining illegally. But of the illegal miners say they will continue with the illegal mining due to lack of job opportunities. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports....
Forensic pathologists Dr. Shakeera Holland and her counterpart, Professor Steve Naidoo, have testified at the inquest into the death of activist Ahmed Timol, that based on the pictures and evidence presented to them it was clear that most of the facial injuries and fractures Timol suffered could not have been caused by a fall as alleged. An inquest in 1972 ruled that the former anti-apartheid activist and South African Communist Party member's death in October 1971 was suicide. His family re-opened the inquest after the discovery of new evidence. Neo Makwiting reports....
The ANC in the Eastern Cape says it will lobby other provinces to support its proposal for the election of the party president by all members in good standing. It proposes a special voting day where every member across the country will cast their vote for senior positions in the party, including the presidential candidate. The provincial executive also wants other office bearers like the deputy-president, secretary-general and treasurer elected at the elective congress. Makhaya Komisa has more ...
The School Governing Body at Klipspruit West Secondary School in Johannesburg has been disbanded. The school made headlines this week after parents disrupted schooling after a black principal was appointed, demanding that she be replaced by a coloured person. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi met with the body on Wednesday and says further announcements on the principal and other matters will be made by the end of the week.
The Department of Trade and Industry and First National Bank have signed a pledge that will improve access to finance for Black Industrialists. This is aimed at fast-tracking accelerated economic transformation. The pledge was signed at a ceremony in Johannesburg. Tshepo Mongoai and Liabo Setho compiled this report..
Ronnie Mamoepa's family has expressed appreciation after President Jacob Zuma declared a Special Provincial Official Funeral for the struggle activist and government spokesperson. The former spokesperson of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa died following a stroke in Pretoria last Saturday. He was 56 years old. Phanuel Shuma reports...
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets as they trade mixed, with Japan and Australia positive and Kumba gives investors a very pleasant surprise at its interim results on Tuesday by reinstating the dividend
Market Analyst, Nadir Tokhan of 27-Four Investment Managers looks at South African markets as tech company Google earnings are out and South African unemployment numbers released
Eastern Cape police in Port Elizabeth are investigating a case of intimidation following alleged death threats against two DA councillors in Port Elizabeth. The two Nelson Mandela metro councillors are Chief Whip of Council, Werner Senekal and Mayoral Committee Member for Roads and Transport Rano Kayser. Mayor, Athol Trollip says there's a possibility of a hit men contract in place to kill the two councillors. He says the police are following possible leads. Trollip now joins is on the line for more details
Windsor House Academy in Kempton Park has put their code of conduct policy on hold after a storm erupted over the hair styles of black girls. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says the private girls school should rectify the situation. The school caused an outrage on social media after sending girls with braids home on Monday. Lesufi has given the school three months to come up with a new policy...
ANC MP Makhosi Khoza says she is scared to accept security because those assigned to protect her may wish to harm her. She says she's getting advice on the implications of taking on government security. The security was offered last Friday and government says Khoza has yet to accept it. Khoza has received death threats after she spoke out against President Jacob Zuma and in favour of a secret no-confidence ballot vote in him on August 8. Is it reasonable for Khoza to be doubtful of the security offered to her by Parliament and the Police? Senior Researcher, Justice and Crime Prevention Programme at the Institute for Security Studies, Chandre Gould.
An attorney specialising in medical law says a medical practitioner can divulge patient information, but only if it's factually correct and in the public interest. Adele van de Walt was reacting to accusations that retired Defence Force surgeon-general, Dr Veejay Ramlakan, broke doctor-patient confidentiality in his book, 'Mandela's Last Years'. Ramlakan's publisher, Penguin Random House, has withdrawn the book in the face of threatened legal action by Mandela's widow, Graca Machel. Van de Walt has told Prabashini Moodley of Lotus Radio in Durban that there are certain exceptions to the rule.
The inquest into the death of 29-year-old Ahmed Timol while in police custody almost 46 years ago, resumed yesterday in the High Court in Pretoria. Timol was one of many detainees arrested and interrogated by the apartheid police at the notorious John Vorster Square in Johannesburg. According to the police, Timol committed suicide by jumping from a 10th floor window on 27 October 1971. However, his family has re-opened the inquest because new information has come to light. Neo Makwiting reports
The executors of the late President Nelson Mandela's estate will lodge formal complaints against Madiba's medical doctor, Vejay Ramlakan. The former SANDF Surgeon General published a tell-all book that details the late statesmen's last day. The executors - which include former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke and widow Graca Machel believe Ramlakan violated doctor/patient confidentiality pact. Noma Bolani reports...
The leadership of the ANC from Kwazulu-Natal and Mpumalanga have resolved to forge unity within the party ahead of its elective conference in December.The Provincial Working Committees have agreed that the president of the ANC, Jacob Zuma, will remain in his position until the end of his term. Motsebi wa Monareng reports....
Gauteng Premier, David Makhura says late government communicator, Ronnie Mamoepa deserves a hero's farewell as he was one of the youngest political prisoners at Robben Island. Makhura says Mamoepa's service to the country left also left an indelible mark on the way government communicates. Phanuel Shuma and Phathakahle Sibiya filed this report.
Market Analyst,Nadir Tokhan of 27-Four Investment Managers looks at South African markets as Naspers pushes to new record high and declining inflation environment and what it mean for consumer
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they trade mostly lower, with Australia ASX200 bucking the trend, Amplats posts 55% drop in H1 profit and Chris Griffith sees even tougher conditions ahead for the PGM sector
Lawyers for Human Rights has slammed Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba for saying foreigners were not the responsibility of the city - but rather of national government. Mashaba has made it clear he will only provide accommodation to South Africans and it was the responsibility of national government to address the issues of foreigners in the country. Mashaba was responding to criticism following the eviction of over 250 people from a dilapidated building in the Johannesburg CBD. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political philosopher of the Wits School of Governance, Dr Ivor Sarakinsky
Lawyers for Human Rights has slammed Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba for saying foreigners were not the responsibility of the city - but rather of national government. Mashaba has made it clear he will only provide accommodation to South Africans and it was the responsibility of national government to address the issues of foreigners in the country. Mashaba was responding to criticism following the eviction of over 250 people from a dilapidated building in the Johannesburg CBD.Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Attorney at the Land and Housing Unit of the Lawyers for Human Rights, Tarisai Mugunyani
President Jacob Zuma says South Africa missed the opportunity in 1994 to implement radical socio economic transformation programmes in order to achieve equal distribution of the country's economy. The President was speaking during the launch of the Truman Magubane Foundation which is aimed at assisting underprivileged children from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal. The 75-year old Truman Magubane who is the patron of the foundation served 15 years on Robin Island. Vusi Makhosini reports
ANC Presidential candidate Lindiwe Sisulu, is reported to have challenged President Jacob Zuma to face a disciplinary process for corruption allegations levelled against him. This came out during Sisulu's official launch of her campaign for the ANC presidency held in Kliptown, Soweto, this past weekend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to her on what prompted the launch...
Details of the funeral service of Ronnie Mamoepa are expected to be made public today. Mamoepa passed away on Saturday night at the Unitas Hospital in Centurion, south of Pretoria. Mamoepa was the spokesperson for the deputy president, Cyril Ramaphosa. He died of complications after he suffered a stroke five weeks ago. Liela Magnus reports
Emergency Rescue Services have located the body of another Tau - Lekwa Gold mineworker who was trapped underground following a rockfall at the mine. This is the third body of a miner after two other bodies were earlier recovered. The search for the last man continues at the gold mine in Orkney near Klerksdorp in North West. The men were trapped underground following a 0.8 magnitude earth tremor. Sakina Kamwenod spoke to reporter in the North West, Zebilon Maine
The African Union has called on all stakeholders in Kenya's general election to ensure that its poll next month is free, fair and credible for the sake of the country's stability. Former South African President, Thabo Mbeki, who's heading the AU election observer mission to Kenya, says a credible and peaceful poll on 8 August would set a precedent for the rest of Africa. He spoke to the media in Nairobi after two days of marathon meetings with several key people in the electoral process.
Investment Analyst, Lungile Malinga looks at Asian markets on Friday morning as the ECB and the Bank of Japan's policy rates decisions are out of the way and how South African markets react to the 25 basis point cut by the South African Reserve bank
The families of the Esidimeni patients together with government have reached an agreement on the Alternative Dispute Resolution process. This follows recommendations by the Health Ombud that the Minister of Health and the Premier must facilitate an Alternative Dispute Resolution process with all families affected. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Spokesperson for the Gauteng Provincial Government, Thabo Masebe and a representative of the family committee of the Esidimeni patients, Christine Nxumalo who says they are happy they will not be going to courts. Nxumalo also added that the health system in SA needs overhaul, practitioners have lost Ubuntu
South Africans who work overseas could be taxed locally for foreign earnings from 2019. Treasury plans to repeal a tax exemption on income earned by South Africans working overseas and has issued two draft bills. The public has until August 18 to comment on the bills, before Treasury and the SA Revenue Service introduce them to Parliament. To talk to us about how this is likely to affect South Africans working overseas, we are joined on the line by Angela Jones, CEO of 'The Home Coming Revolution', a pan-African recruitment firm for global African professionals...
Police have been deployed to Hout Bay in the Cape Peninsula where residents have set alight two houses belonging to community leaders in Imizamo Yethu. The violence erupted yesterday afternoon forcing the closure of several roads and intersections in the area. Mlamli Maneli reports.
Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyogo has warned that the reduction in interest rates will not provide a significant stimulus for economic growth. Kganyago says it's unclear where the drivers of growth will come from in the absence of credible structural policy initiatives to reduce uncertainty. The bank reduced rates by 25 basis points, taking the repo rate to 6-point-75 percent. Tshepo Mongoai reports
Market Analyst, Jana van Deventer of ETM Analytics looks at the decision by the Reserve Bank by 25 basis points to 6.75% and the European Central Bank calms markets with unchanged interest rates
Abahlali BaseMjondolo President Sibusiso Zikode spent half a day on Wednesday testifying before the Moerane Commission in Durban. He revealed that at least five people from his organisation have been killed since 2009. Zikode alleges that all the killings of their members are politically motivated. In one murder case, two ANC councillors are already serving a sentence of life imprisonment for killing Thuli Ndlovu in 2013. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
The Competition Commission says members of the public have untill August 24 to make submissions to its inquiry into the state of passenger transport in the country. The commission hoped to identifying some of the challenges faced in the public transport sector. Sakina Kamwenso spoke to Head of Communication at the Competition Commission, Sipho Ngwema.
Market Analyst, Jana van Deventer of ETM Analytics looks at some positive news on the domestic data front on Wednesday as the June inflation rate came in lower than expected and retail sales growth surprised to the topside, South African Reserve Bank's decision on monetary policy and the European Central Bank ti deliver its latest decision on monetary policy.
Tender regulations were flaunted when a 6-million rand contract for controversial security upgrades at President Jacob Zuma's Nkandla residence, was awarded to a company that was already involved in private work for the president. This has been the evidence of an investigator of the Special Investigations Unit in the disciplinary hearing of a senior Public Works official in Durban. Jayshree Pardesi has pleaded not guilty to charges of misconduct. Criminal charges have been laid against others and civil proceedings have been instituted to recover money spent on the project. Zuma himself paid back 7-point-8 million rand last year after the former Public Protector found that he unduly benefited from upgrades that were not security linked. Dries Liebenberg reports
The South African music fraternity has paid tribute to the late Ray Phiri during a special memorial service at Baseline in Newtown, Johannesburg. Phiri died last week at a hospital in Mpumalanga from lung cancer. He was 70 years old. Mbali Sibanyoni reports..
Interim SABC board chairperson, Khanyisile Kweyama says the poublic broadcaster has handed investigations against former acting CEO, James Aguma over to the police's Special Investigating Unit. Aguma resigned yesterday. He was in the middle of a disciplinary hearing, which was suspended following his resignation. Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts has reacted with shock to Aguma's resignation before the conclusion of his disciplinary hearing. Scopa says it takes this as admission of guilt for the financial mess that the SABC finds itself in.
Pearl Bhengu has replaced Thokozani Magwaza as the CEO of SASSA. Until now Bhengu was the regional manager at SASSA in KwaZulu-Natal. The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) recently expressed its shock and anger at what it called brazen lawlessness by elements who want to frustrate the contract between Sassa and the South African Post Office. We speak to the Chairperson of SCOPA Themba Godi.
President Jacob Zuma has lashed out at the South African Communist Party for - what he terms - acting like an opposition political party. He was addressing an ANC's Cadres Forum during a Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture at eMpangeni Hall on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast last night. Meanwhile, provincial ANC chairperson Sihle Zikalala who introduced Zuma, suggested that those involved in the killing of ANC leaders should be isolated. Vusi Khumalo reports
Suspended SABC CEO James Aguma will now face five charges in his disciplinary hearing, after four more were added to the original one. Aguma's hearing got underway in Sandton, north of Johannesburg on Wednesday. The original charge was one of providing false information under oath, during the disciplinary hearing of the broadcaster's dismissal of COO, Hlaudi Motsoeneng. Aguma's lawyer, Osborn Molatudi, tried to question the legality of the hearing. But this was dismissed by Professor Taki Madima, who is chairing the hearing. SABC reporter Horisani Sithole has more...
An academic who has done research on violence in KwaZulu-Natal says the province has a culture of blood letting. Professor Paulus Zulu from the University of KwaZulu-Natal testified before the Moerane Commission in Durban, probing violence in the province. Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal House of Traditional Leaders inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza has called for a cleansing ceremony. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports..
As Eskom prepares to release its financial results, Minister of Public Enterprises Lynne Brown has conceded that the series of serious allegations of corruption against Eskom have eroded the company's integrity. The results are also expected to shed some light on reports that the power utility is cash strapped. Tshepo Mongoai filed this report..
The Minister of Transport, Joe Maswanganyi will today meet with his police counterpart, Fikile Mbalula, to discuss security concerns in the public transport sector. Metered taxi drivers have been protesting in Sandton, Johannesburg over the operations of Uber taxis, but they've also been accused of harassing and attacking Uber drivers . An Uber taxi driver died on Monday after his vehicle was burnt last month. Maswanganyi says they will amend the law to legalise Uber taxis, as they're currently operating illegally.
Lungile Malinga of Effectus Capital Management looks at Asian markets this morning ahead of interest rate decisions in Japan and Europe this week, Shoprite released results yesterday showing a 2% slump and what to expect from inflation numbers expected today.
Zambian President Edgar Lungu has announced that he will engage with opposition parties with the aim of reducing political tension in that country. Lungu made the announcement in Lusaka after a meeting with the Catholic Bishops of Southern Africa. Lungu has long been criticised for silencing political opponents since the detention of opposition leader, Hichilema Hakainde on treason charges.
The South African Police Emergency employees intend to cripple the 10111 call centres countrywide as they embark on strike this morning after what they term as 'negative responses' to their demands for increased salaries. Genereal Secretary of the South African Policing Union, Oscar Skommere says salary levels of SAPS Call Centre workers are not on the same level as other government call centres, despite the 10111 service being the busiest emergency call centre. Workers downed tools a month ago over the same issue.
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics looks at the main domestic data releases for the week which includes the June CPI report and retail sales data for May. What do you expect these numbers to show and NUMSA is threatening to embark on a strike which could result in a "total shutdown" of the manufacturing sector.
The North West Department of Health has contracted two private ambulance companies to help with emergency medical services. The companies only transport patients from one health facility to another, they say, in order to free up government ambulances for home calls. Despite this communities continue to complain about ambulances not showing up when seriously needed. Sisi Segalo has compiled the following report...
The ANC top six officials will head back to the Western Cape for a two day meeting next week, to discuss the challenges confronting the Provincial Executive Committee. This was the only decision made at a meeting in Cape Town where the top six and National Working Committee met with the PEC about its problems. At the heart of this, is the disbandment of the Dullah Omar region - apparently after repeated infighting with the PEC over among others, alleged factionalism. Zalene Merrington has more...
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has come out strongly condemning death threats against former SASSA CEO Thokozani Magwaza. This follows media reports that Magwaza has been threatened out of his job which he consequently resigned from. In a statement, OUTA says it hopes the authorities will not appoint a compliant stooge who will just agree with Minister Bathabile Dlamini's original intention to have the social grants distributed at huge cost. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Dominique Msibi, who is the Portfolio Director at OUTA
Lungile Malinga of Effectus Capital Management looks at how are Asian Markets are performing this morning ahead of policy rates decisions from both the bank of Japan and the European Central Bank this week and Massmart released half year results.
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics takes us through the 6:30 Markets
President Jacob Zuma insists that white monopoly capital in South Africa exist- despite the ANC's decision to reject defining it a white monopoly capital but instead a monopoly capital without colour or racialising the issue. The controversial concept of "white monopoly capital" was rejected by the majority of ANC delegates at its national policy conference early this month. Delivering a Nelson Mandela Memorial lecture at Zolani sports centre in Nyanga East in the Cape Flats, organised by the ANC Youth League Dullah Omar Region last night-Zuma says those who say there is no white monopoly capital are not living in South Africa. He futher illustrated that South Africa had experience colonialism of a special type with unique features than other former colonised countries. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report.
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics looks at suggestion that Eskom is broke while the power utility denies the claims and the gold price has rallied off mid-March lows in the past week and a half.
Eskom has confirmed it will be paying multi-million-rand bonuses to current and former senior managers including axed CEO Brian Molefe. Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe says they are paying the bonuses because people have met and exceeded their performances. Eskom earlier denied it was in financial dire straits and that it would be unable to pay salaries from November.
The search for eight missing fishermen off Cape St Francis in the Eastern Cape has resumed this morning. The fisherman went missing yesterday after their chokka vessel capsized. One man has been confirmed dead, while seven more have been rescued. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to National Sea Rescue Institute spokesperson Craig Lambinon
Snowfalls have been reported in various parts of the Western Cape. Temperatures have plummeted since the start of the weekend as a cold front made landfall. Snow flurries have been seen on the top of Table Mountain while snow has also fallen on the Swartberg Mountain range near Beaufort West in the Karoo. Thandiswa Mawu reports
The SACP says it's 14th national congress resolution to contest elections independently is not a breakaway from the ANC-led tripartite alliance. The party is however concerned about the alliance in its present form and is also deeply concerned about its future. The SACP previously complained about being treated as a junior partner in the alliance as well as President Jacob Zuma's remaining in office as head of state. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Dozens of young men in the Eastern Cape have returned home after undergoing the rite of passage to manhood at various initiation schools across the province. If there are no major incidents over the next couple of days, this will go down as one of the best circumcision seasons in the province in over a decade. Out of the 12 fatalities recorded so far, six died after their hut caught fire. Yanga Funani reports
Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics looks at how the currency performed and the major drivers as well as economic data data expected this South Africa
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at South African markets following release of mining production data yesterday, buzz about the finance minister's action plan and what it means for the economy and Zimbabwe's tax collection figures
A Durban author is questioning the local publishing industry that has declined to publish her second novel- The Architecture of Loss. Despite finding success with an international publishing house, Zainub Dala insists that local publishing houses are not doing enough to support South African stories. Dala's debut novel "What about Meera" was shrouded in controversy at the 2015 Time of the Writer Festival when she was attacked after expressing her admiration for author Salman Rushdie. In Part 1 of this two part series, Minoshni Pillay unpacks the challenges of getting published in South Africa and filed this report...
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets ending the week mixed and good news at last as S A's Mining Production and Sales figures for May show improvements
South Africans need to take responsibility for the direction the country is taking and stop relying on the governing ANC. This is according to former ANC MP Vytjie Mentor who was speaking at the Cape Town Press Club about her self published book. In the book Mentor chronicles her life and her involvement in ANC politics. While commenting on the politics of the day, Mentor also repeated claims of sexual harassment against President Jacob Zuma. Mentor made headlines last year when she claimed that she was offered a cabinet post by the Guptas. Zalene Merrington has more...
Opposition parties say National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete should recuse herself from presiding over the debate and vote of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma because she is biased. Several opposition parties - including the DA, EFF, ACDP,COPE and UDM - met in Pretoria yesterday to discuss several issues in the political sphere including the debate and vote on the motion of no confidence scheduled for the 8th of August.
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)'s Interim Board is the process of reviewing its 2004 Editorial Policy. This follows a change in Policy which was implemented in 2016 by the former COO of the corporation Hlaudi Motsoeneng, which was later rejected by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA).
The DA is going after the Gupta family following allegations of corruption at a dairy farm in Vrede in the Free State. DA leader Mmusi Maimane paid an oversight visit to the farm on Wednesday accompanied by those who were supposed to be the beneficiaries. The beneficiaries say they have never received any money from the loss-making farm. Angela Bolowana reports…
Condolences continue to pour in for the late legendary jazz musician Ray Chikapa Phiri who succumbed to lung cancer in a Nelspruit hospital early on Wednesday. 70-year-old Phiri's death has left promising young musicians in Mpumalanga, where he was born, shocked and saddened. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports..
Research Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at South African markets following release of SA consumers index on Wednesday, Nigerian finance Minister comes out to say Nigeria cannot borroow money anymore and the much anticipated announcement made by the Fed yesterday
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Stocks as they follow Wall Street higher on the back of Janet Yellen testimony before congress and Stats SA due to release the Mining Production figures for May today
The Communication Workers Union, CWU says it's not happy with Communications Minister Ayanda Dlodlo and the SABC interim board. The union says its concerned and dissatisfied with the performance of the Interim SABC board, whose term ends end of September. Sakina Kamwenod spoke to CWU General Secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala
Calm has returned to George after a tense stand off between protesters and police in Thembalethu in the Southern Cape. Angry residents blockaded roads and burnt tyres, demanding housing and service delivery. An estimated one-thousand residents took part in the protest action. Sagree Chetty reports...
Dr. Blade Nzimande has been retained as the SACP's general secretary for a fifth term. He was re-elected at the party 's 14th congress in Boksburg east of Johannesburg on Wednesday night. There has been a minimal change the rest of the top leadership. All the top six positions were not contested. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACP stalwart, Dr Sydney Mufamadi....
SACP General Secretary, Blade Nzimande, has warned that the ANC could be facing defeat in the 2019 national elections if strong action isn't taken against corruption and state capture. Nzimande yesterday addressed delegates at the start of the week-long SACP Congress currently underway in Boksburg on Gauteng's East Rand. The SACP leadership announced that it had barred President Jacob Zuma from addressing the congress. Instead Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa will address them on Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Ralph Mathega....
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks Asian markets as Stocks trade mostly lower following a volatile Wall Street and markets expected to pay attention to Janet Yellen's testimony before Congress today.
Market Analyst, Fundiswa Nkuta looks at South African markets post manufacturing production data and what it reveals about SA Economy and what a trade agreement has been signed between SA and Tanzania means for both countries moving forward...
The EFF has labelled as 'the 'highest form of defiance', the action by it's councilors who voted with the ANC in Mogale City Local Municipality's budget vote yesterday. Party's spokesperson, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi says the mandate given to its councillors was to NOT vote with the ANC, but by doing so, the councillors have become complicit in normalizing corruption and criminality. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Party's spokesperson, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi...
SACP General Secretary, Blade Nzimande, has warned that the ANC could be facing defeat in the 2019 national elections if strong action isn't taken against corruption and state capture. Nzimande yesterday addressed delegates at the start of the week-long SACP Congress currently underway in Boksburg on Gauteng's East Rand. The SACP leadership announced that it had barred President Jacob Zuma from addressing the congress. Instead Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa will address them today.
Oakbay Investments is said to be delisting from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The Gupta- owned company suspended the trading of its shares, a move it said was temporary as it was struggling to find a sponsor which is one of the key requirements for trading on the JSE. Tshepo Mongoai reports..
Corruption Watch has confirmed that its founding board member and veteran trade union leader, Emma Mashinini, has died at the age of 87. Mashinini was the first General-Secretary of the Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers' Union in 1975. She co-founded the trade union federation, Cosatu, ten years later. Mashinini was at the fore-front of breaking racial job reservation; fighting for maternity and paternity rights; as well as ensuring a 40-hour working week. Krivani Pillay compiled this obituary, which begins with Emma Mashinini in her own voice…
ANC structures in KwaZulu-Natal are calling on the party' senior leadership to remove outspoken party MP, Dr. Makhosi Khoza, from parliament. Khoza earlier indicated that she would defy the party's directive and vote according to her conscience during a vote of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma. Recently, Khoza - like the opposition parties - wrote to the speaker of the National Assembly, Baleka Mbete, requesting a secret ballot in the motion of no confidence.Vusi Makhosini reports...
The SACP says Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the party's congress in Boksburg, east of Johannesburg on Wednesday. This after the communists asked the ANC not to send President Jacob Zuma to deliver a keynote speech. About 2-thousand-500 delegates have converged in Boksburg for the the SACP's 14th national congress. The five-day gathering will among others discuss issues like the state of the faltering economy, alleged state capture by the controversial Gupta family and whether or not to go it alone in the 2019 general elections. Our Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks Asian markets as Stocks were mixed on low Volumes and the focus today will be on the release of the Manufacturing figures by Stats SA
Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane won't be opposing the South African Reserve Bank (SARB)'s review application. In a statement, Mkhwebane says she took the decision after well-thought-out legal advice from the Senior Counsel. Sakina Kamwendo her spokesperson, Cleopatra Mosana for clarity on what this means...
National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete has filed an affidavit supporting the South African Reserve Bank's court application to set aside Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's recent report and remedial actions. Parliament says Mbete has also asked the High Court in Johannesburg to allow her and Justice and Correctional Services portfolio committee chairman Mathole Motshekga to act as applicants in the case. In her report released last month, Mkhwebane ordered as a remedial action that the mandate of the SARB be changed from targeting inflation to promoting economic growth.
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The Black First Land First (BLF) has threatened to continue with protest action should the media continue with what the organisation terms "racist reporting". BLF has also criticised the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) for grand standing and issued a warning that no one will take away their right to protest. This follows a court victory by SANEF stopping BLF from harassing journalists.
Stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, may be compromised following the announcement of a possible further election delay. The DRC's electoral commission says it is not possible to organize presidential elections by the end of this year. This is contrary to a political agreement which was made on the 31st of December last year with opposition parties, committing to hold elections within 2017. Elections in the country have been halted since Joseph Kabila's term in office ended in mid-December last year.
The EFF is confident that the police will do their job and arrest Free State Premier Ace Magashule and Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane. This comes after the party opened cases of fraud, money laundering, tax evasion and racketeering at the Park Road police station in Bloemfontein. Thabiso Radebe reports...
The United Nations has refused to comment on the specifics of the International Criminal Court ruling against South Africa but has rather reaffirmed the Court as a centerpiece of international justice. The Court on Thursday ruled that Pretoria failed to comply with the ICC's request for arrest and surrender of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and thus prevented the Court from exercising its functions and powers. That was the judgment handed down by the Court's pre-trial chamber after Pretoria failed to arrest President Al-Bashir when he visited Johannesburg during an African Union Heads of State Summit in 2015. The Court also rejected South Africa's arguments that al-Bashir enjoyed immunity while in the country as a visiting head of state. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Cathy Powell from the University of Cape Town's Constitutional Law department
The High Court in Johannesburg will today afternoon rule on the South African National Editors' Forum's application for an interdict against the Black First Land First party. Sanef wants the court to order the BLF to stop intimidating journalists. BUT Black First Land First leader, Andile Mngxitama has denied that recent protest action against journalists amounted to harassment, intimidation or threat. Angela Bolowana reports
This year's G20 summit will have to find a balance between resuscitating the ailing global economy versus isolationist and protectionist rhetoric from some of the most influential members of the grouping. That's the view from some analysts who fear that progress achieved over the years in consolidating unity in dealing with the global economic crisis could be reversed. South Africa, which is the continent's sole representative hopes to urge for closer cooperation to promote growth and boost investor confidence following the country's recent downgrade by rating agencies. Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets as it's all Red in Asia, amid Global uncertainty, the G-20 meeting which starts today in Hamburg, Germany will be a key focus and the US Job numbers are due to be released today.
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF South Africa looks at South African markets on this good news on this Friday, net exporter of maize, after two years of imports due the droughts and UK-based PR firm Bell Pottinger has been at the centre of a social media storm for their alleged role in the stirring up racial tension in South Africa, who yesterday issued a full, unequivocal and absolute apology to anyone impacted
Sports presenter, Robert Marawa says he has not resigned from South African Broadcasting Corporation. This after the public broadcaster announced that the two parties had parted ways. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyakgo and Robert Marawa...
The ANC International Relations Chair, Edna Molewa says it would be unfortunate if the International Criminal Court was to rule against the government in the case involving Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir. She made the comments on the sidelines of the ANC's National Policy Conference at Nasrec, south of Johannesburg. The ICC is expected to rule on the matter today. Our foreign editor Sophie Mokoena spoke to Edna Molewa about a range of issues on ANC's international relations policy proposal...
Market analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF South Africa looks at SA markets as the 5th policy conference of the ANC concludes, the Rand declined by close on 4%, the Standard Bank Purchasing Managers Index for June was released and growing resistance against the remedial action called for in the Public Prosecutor's report on the Reserve Bank and the granting of an apartheid-era loan.
The head of UN WOMEN believes she now has the network of stakeholders in place to ensure key deliverables in the forward-moving women's equality and empowerment agenda. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka was speaking exclusively to SABCNEWS in New York after confirmation this week that she had been appointed to a second term by Secretary General Antonio Guterres after broad consultation with UN Member states. The Under Secretary General and Executive Director also pointed to specific areas, including a reduction in violence against women and economic empowerment, as key areas of focus for her second term. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports...
ANC President Jacob Zuma has branded the monopoly capital as a major adversary for black socio-economic advancement. This is despite the decision by the majority of delegates at the ANC's National Policy conference to reject calls to adopt a phrase "White Monopoly Capital" to denounce white dominance of the country's economy. Over 3-thousand 500 members of the ANC attended the five-day conference which ended in Nasrec, south of Johannesburg on Wednesday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng ANC Chairperson, Paul Mashatile...
7 people have died in a fire in a building in the Johannesburg city centre. Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba says the degradation of the inner city has been a problem for many years. He says lots of rundown buildings potentially offer refuge to criminals, drug users and illegal foreign nationals. A number of fires have broken out at the Cape York before‚ with reports suggesting that authorities had warned the owners to deal with potential fire hazards. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo about what what the city's plans are moving forward...
The family of SABC senior producer Suna Venter, who was found dead on Thursday morning, believes the stress she'd faced over the past year helped cause her death. Venter, who was 32, was found dead in her flat in Fairlands in the northwest of Johannesburg. She had recently been diagnosed with a cardiac condition associated with stress and trauma. Sashin Naidoo reports
The South African Society for Psychiatrists is warning that mental healthcare in the country is collapsing. This despite, the Health Ombudsman's release of a damning report in February which contained specific recommendations to improve the service. Psychiatrists are saying many hospitals are still understaffed with few resources. They are also claiming that the death toll from the Esidimeni incident, in which 94 psychiatric patients died between 23 March and 19 December last year in Gauteng, has risen to above 100. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to President of the South African Society for Psychiatrists, Bernard Jance van Rensberg.
The City of Tshwane to reduce public transport fares with Effect from 1 July. Making the announcement last night, Mayor Solly Msimanga saying;safe, reliable and affordable public transportation is needed to addresses inequalities. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Tshwane Member of the Mayoral Committee for Roads & Transport Sheila Lynn- Senkugube who says
Maudi Lentsoane, CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Shares which are trading higher following a positive close on Wall Street, Iron Ore Prices still recovering and Stats SA to release the May Producer Price Index today.
Civil action organisation, OUTA, has confirmed it will be presenting Parliament with a report directly linking President Jacob Zuma to state capture. OUTA says the report contains compelling evidence that warrants President Zuma's removal from office when Parliament holds a no-confidence vote on a date still to be announced. Thandiswa Mawu reports
Human Rights Advocate George Bizos gave testimony in the Ahmed Timol Inquest seating at the Johannesburg High Court. Bizos who represented Steve Biko and Timol in their inquests and also represented first witness Salim Essop in his case against the police, spoke about his experiences as a lawyer in the time of apartheid. Angela Bolowana reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Advisor at ETF South Africa looks at Anglogold restructuring plan which will see about 8500 people lose their jobs and Local Mining Communities Business Forum, to hand over a memorandum to the JSE in Sandton demanding jobs
Committee members of the National Assembly's Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs were left fuming on Tuesday following the no-show of former Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba and his successor, Hlengiwe Mkhize to explain why the Department had granted the Guptas citizenship after their initial application was denied. Home Affairs Director-General Mkuseli Apleni, who appeared for the Department, told MP's that officials considered the Gupta family's business interests and investments in the country before deciding there were exceptional circumstances for early naturalisation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Lemias Mashile on the matter.
The Ahmed Timol Inquest will conclude the cross-examination of activist Salim Essop today. Essop spent the past two days speaking about his four days of torture at the hands of the Apartheid security police following his arrest in 1971. On Tuesday Essop took the court on a tour of the Johannesburg Central Police Station where he was held prisoner. This is the same prison where Ahmed Timol met his death. His death was ruled a suicide in 1972. The current inquest, brought by Timol's family, aims at overturning this ruling. Angela Bolowana reports
The Special Investigation Unit has told the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) and the SABC interim Board that the investigation into the public broadcasters scope will be completed before the end of the Boards term. Earlier this year, Parliament's ad hoc committee probing the SABC, recommended that an investigation be conducted. The officials met at the SABC's headquarters in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, to discuss the scope of the investigation by SIU. Both SCOPA and the SABC interim Board are pleased with the investigation. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports
Harsher water restrictions could be implemented in Cape Town as from next week. Dam levels remain critically low at 24 percent despite the recent rainfall. Level 4b restrictions will entail reducing usage to under a 100 litres per person per day. Mlamli Maneli reports..
The SANDF and the Gauteng Provincial Government are investigating a case of suspected human trafficking after close to 300 young people were found stranded in Wonder Park‚ north of Pretoria on Tuesday. The Gauteng Social Development Department says it rescued over 200 of the young people who had been lured to Gauteng by a man who had promised them employment. It's understood the large group had been stranded next to Wonder Park Shopping complex since last week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Social Development Department spokesperson, Mbangwa Xaba
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they are mostly lower, and this follows a negative close on Wall Street and the Euro gains on Hawkish Mario Draghi.
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF South Africa looks at South African markets following bounce in mining stocks on the JSE yesterday, up over 3%, bullish talk by Pres Jinping pushed commodity prices higher, and ECB president Mario Draghi's positive tone caused the Euro to strengthen and the rand back at the R13/$ level.
Committee members of the National Assembly's Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs were left fuming yesterday following the no-show of former Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba and his successor, Hlengiwe Mkhize to explain why the Department had granted the Guptas citizenship after their initial application was denied. Home Affairs Director-General Mkuseli Apleni, who appeared for the Department, told MP's that officials considered the Gupta family's business interests and investments in the country before deciding there were exceptional circumstances for early naturalisation.
Zimbabwean police have arrested #ThisFlag leader, Evan Mawarire. Mawarire is charged with praying with Zimbabwe medical students who were protesting against the recent fees hike, from 700 dollars to one thousand five hundred dollars per semester. Mawarire is being held at Harare's Avondale Police Station. He claims he has done nothing wrong. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to his lawyer, Harrison Nkomo.
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as shares trading Flat following a Flat Wall Street close, gold plunged yesterday after 1.8million Ounces were traded in one minute and the US FED's Janet Yellen will be speaking at the UK Forum in London today
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF South Africa looks at South African markets with less known "Summer Davos", which starts in the city of Dalian in China today, artificial intelligence has many people running scared that the robots are going to take over the few jobs we do have and extent of addressing China's high levels of carbon emission and pollution in general
Mental health patients in 160 NGO's in Gauteng are in dire straits because the provincial Department of Health has stopped funding them. According to the DA, staff at some of the NGOs have not been getting their salaries, while others are considering to take the Department to court. because the provincial Department of Health has stopped funding them. According to the DA, staff at some of the NGOs have not been getting their salaries, while others are considering to take the Department to court.
SA Prisoners' Org for Human Rights says they are angered by what's happened at Sun City Prison where inmates were treated to strippers. SAPO's spokesperson Miles Bhudu told Sakina Kamwendo that they will not point fingers to the the Department of Correctional Services. Investigations are now in full swing following the emergence of images, that went viral on social media, of female strippers entertaining prisoners at Johannesburg Medium B Prison, also known as Sun City. Acting National Correctional Services Commissioner, James Smalberger, has promised that the officers implicated in the breach of security will face the full might of the law.
SACP Second Deputy Secretary, Solly Mapaila, has once again accused President Jacob Zuma of being an instrument of factionalism within the ANC. Mapaila was speaking at the North West provincial elective conference of teacher's union SADTU in Rustenburg. He re-iterated the SACP's view that Zuma should step down. Lucas Mothibedi reports ...
The truth about the death of struggle hero Ahmed Timol will finally be revealed. An inquest into his death which mirrors that of Steve Biko will start on Monday in the High Court in Johannesburg. While this is relief for the family, it comes too late for his deceased mother who testified in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Angela Bolowana compiled this report...
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Market as shares have begun the week on a high and the falling Oil Price negatively impacting the value of the Sasol Inzalo BEE Scheme
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF South Africa looks at South African markets as focus on the fact the we are currently in a technical recession pesists, referring to the fact that we've recorded two consecutive quarters of contraction in GDP, new National Treasury director general Dondo Mogajane addressed media for the first time at the weekend and immediate implications of the recent credit ratings downgrades have been on the ability of South African companies to issue new debt at the same prices as before...
ANC veteran and former MP Ben Turok turns 90 years old today. But he had an early birthday party at Salt River in Cape Town on Saturday evening. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent takes a look at some of the political times and life of Turok, who was ANC MP for 18 years....
A handful of Congolese nationals living in South Africa have protested outside the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria against the visit of DRC president, Joseph Kabila. The protesters say Kabila is not the legal president of the DRC and therefore, cannot act on behalf of the country. They claim he intentionally delayed the presidential elections in 2016 until 2018 so he can remain in power. Kabila has already served two terms as president. Liela Magnus reports .....
President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Joseph Kabila has committed his government to creating conducive conditions for the resumption of a dialogue to unlock the impasse over the staging of the national elections. This emerged after a meeting between Kabila and President Jacob Zuma in Pretoria yesterday. Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report.
President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Joseph Kabila has committed his government to creating conducive conditions for the resumption of a dialogue to unlock the impasse over the staging of the national elections. Bongi Gwala spoke to DRC national and political and social commentator Dr Juliene Kaku Katombe says there is a genocide currently under way in Zimbabwe
The sale of all live chickens has been banned across the country. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has put the suspension after avian influenza was detected in a farm in Mpumalanga last week. All affected birds in that farm have since been euthanized. Three weeks ago there was a highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak in Zimbabwe which led to South Africa suspending all trade in chickens from Zimbabwe. Bongi Gwala speaks to Dr Mpho Maja, Director of Animal Health at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
The Democratic Alliance's Federal Council meeting has resolved to work towards ensuring that the ANC is removed from power in the 2019 general elections. The two days meeting in Durban tabled policy related issues to be discussed by various structures in the party. The party's federal council also welcomed the outcome of the Western Cape Premier Helen Zille matter. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
Human Settlements Minister, Lindiwe Sisulu, says all provincial Human Settlement Departments will make five percent of their budget available for housing in the Knysna and Plettenberg Bay areas. This is after devastating fires destroyed over eight hundred properties and caused hundreds of millions of rands worth of damage. Sisulu met local government officials in Knysna on Thursday. Tanya Krause reports...
The memorial service of Namibian freedom fighter, Andimba Toivo ya Toivo will he held in Windhoek in Namibia today. The 92-year-old struggle icon died earlier this month at his home in the capital city. Ya Toivo spent 16 years on Robben Island after the apartheid police convicted him of treason in 1968. Thousands of Namibians are expected to fill the Independence Stadium where the event will take place. Noma Bolani filled this report from Windhoek..
Market Analyst, Lungile Malinga of Effectus Capital Management looks at Asian Markets as oil prices rebound slightly and the reasons behind pressure on the Woolworths share price.
President Jacob Zuma says he welcomes the Constitutional Court's ruling on the issue of a secret ballot in the motion of no confidence against him, he believes the manner in which the vote is conducted will not change the outcome. Answering questions in the National Assembly, President Zuma, says he is confident that he will win his 8th vote of no confidence even through a secret ballot. Lulama Matya has more...
24 Vehicle Testing Stations in Gauteng province have been shut down for non-compliance to regulations. The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Dr Ismail Vadi says the licenses of the affected testing stations have been suspended. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Vadi for the latest
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Manager looks at the lack investment in South Africa and the U.S seem to be more sensitive to interest rate increases.
The former president of Botswana, Sir Ketumile Masire has passed away at the age of 91. Masire was admitted to the intensive care unit in a Gaborone hospital at the weekend. He led country between 1980 and 1998. He led various diplomatic initiatives in Africa, including chairing a panel that investigated the 1994 Rwanda Genocide, and co-ordinating the Inter-Congolese National Dialogue. Sakina Kamwedo speaks to Isaac Pheko journalist at the Botswana Guardian
The City of Cape Town was the only metro that received a clean audit from the office of the auditor general. 24 out of 30 municipalities in the province received clean audits from the Auditor General in the 2015/16 financial year. The Western Cape Local government department says it will continue to provide municipal and governance support to those who need it. Amina Accram reports
Disaster officials in the Southern Cape think the recent devastating fires in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay were caused by lightning and an electricity transformer blown away by strong winds. They briefed Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Agriculture on the extent of the damage during a visit to the area. Seven people died in the fires and 400 formal houses and 200 informal structures were destroyed in Knysna. Tanya Krause reports.
It's all eyes on the Constitutional Court on Thursday morning. The highest court on the land is expected to make a ruling in an application brought by the United Democratic Movement that a secret ballot be allowed during a vote of no confidence debate against president Jacob Zuma. The application is also supported by a number opposition parties and civil society groupings. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Market Analyst, Lungile Malinga of Effectus Capital Management looks at Asia Markets as oil prices continue to remain under pressure and impact of CPI data which was released yesterday by Stats SA...
Trade union SAMWU says it can not confirm whether they were involved in the burning of the historic Bloemfontein city hall last night. Workers affiliated to SAMWU allegedly set the building alight in protest at the Mangaung Metro mayor Olly Mlamleli's failure to meet them to discuss their demands for salary increases. The workers embarked on a strike a month ago. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAMWU Free State chairperson, Congo Matshepe...
The City of Cape Town was the only metro that received a clean audit from the office of the auditor general. 24 out of 30 municipalities in the province received clean audits from the Auditor General in the 2015/16 financial year. The Western Cape Local government department says it will continue to provide municipal and governance support to those who need it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to economist at Municipal IQ, Karen Heese on what they make of the report...
Mangaung Municipality officials say it was unnecesary for striking workers to set the Bloemfontein City Hall on fire, as negotiations are underway. The historical City Hall was gutted by flames last night when striking Mangaung Metro workers, affiliated to trade union SAMWU, set furniture alight. They reportedly became angry when the Mayor, Olly Mlamleli, failed to meet them on their demands for salary increases. The municipal strike has lasted more than a month. Police say three men have been arrested on charges of arson. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mangaung Municipality Spokesperson, Qondile Khedama
Bloemfontein police have arrested three men on charges of arson following last night's fire that gutted the historic city hall in the CBD. The fire started when striking workers at the Mangaung Metro set furniture alight after they became angry because the mayor, Olly Mlamleli, failed to meet them on their demands for salary increases. The fire was almost brought under control, but the situation got out of hand when the roof collapsed. It then rapidly spread throughout the building. Damage to the building could run into millions of rands. Ishmael Modiba reports
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager looks at inflation which rose for the first time this year as stands at 5.4% from 5.3 per cent and where to for the US equitiesgiven the slowing share buybacks?
Market analyst, Lungile Malinga of Effectus Capital Management looks at Asian markets as oil prices continue to remain under pressure and Hyprop faces headwinds as big retailers shut outlets
CEOs of the country's banks have met with the ANC to discuss Radical Economic Transformation, among other things. The closed meeting was held in Johannesburg and was led by the ANC Treasury General Dr Zweli Mkhize. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him on what the aim of the meeting was...
Uganda is seeking at least $8 billion for the next four years to support refugees hosted in the East African nation. Minister for Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Hilary Onek, says hosting 1.3 million refugees has stretched the country's resources. Onek says Uganda will seek the assistance of the international community during a two-day solidarity summit on refugees to be hosted in the capital Kampala this week. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres is among those expected to attend the event. Sarah Kimani reports..
Disaster Risk authorities in the Western Cape say damage caused by the recent natural disasters in the province is estimated at over 150 million rand. Heavy rains and gale force winds lashed the province about two weeks ago, leaving a trail of destruction. Simultaneously, devastating fires in the Southern Cape wreaked havoc. The Department of Local Government has briefed the Standing Committee on Local Government in the Western Cape legislature on the status of the fire and clean up operations. Lynne Arendse reports ...
Some of the community members at Bapo ba Mogale in the North West are not happy with the recent report by the Public Protector, Busisiswe Mkhwebane. They say it does not give a full account of who is responsible for squandering millions of rand in mining royalties from their communal bank account since 1994. The money is meant to benefit the community. On Monday, Mkhwebane ordered an investigation into the alleged misuse of millions of rand of public funds by the Bapo ba Mogale tribal administration. Mkhwebane says the then Bapo Administration and the Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs failed to manage the affairs of the community. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Spokesperson of Bapo-ba-Mogale Tribal Authority, Fladimir Mogale...
Nadir Tokan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager looks talk about the current account numbers that came out yesterday, Diverging fortunes for the U.K and promoting economic growth.
Violence and persecution globally is causing more people than ever to be forcibly displaced.The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees says 65.6 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide at the end of 2016. The UN report finds that the pace of displacement remains very high, on average 24 people are driven from their homes every minute or one every three seconds.
The Patriotic Alliance (PA) is in negotiations to become the latest coalition partner in Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. It appears mayor Atholl Trollip is looking for majority votes in council as he started negotiating with the Patriotic Alliance that has one seat in council. Unconfirmed reports suggest Trollip plans to appoint PA councillor Marlon Daniels to his mayoral committee. This comes as the DA's relationship with the UDM - particularly deputy mayor Mongameli Bobani - has become increasingly volatile‚ resulting in the coalition government losing critical debates and council resolutions.
Nadir Tokan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager talks about Brexit negotiations kicking off in the United Kingdom today and the technology sector rebound
Political Economist David van Wyk says a private Bank that is masquerading as a reserve Bank. Political Economist David van Wyk says the reserve Bank must be accountable to the people of South Africa not its shareholder. Van Wyk says the Reserve Bank is not failing its current mandate and should be accountable to South Africans and not its private shareholders. he spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
Rooibos Limited, the largest processor of rooibos tea in South Africa, has been brought before the Competition Tribunal for prosecution. The company is facing charges relating to abuse of dominance by inducing rooibos tea farmers not to deal with the tea processors it competes with. This follows an investigation by the Commission, after it received a complaint from a rooibos tea processor in 2015. To discuss this matter, we are now joined on the line by Sipho Ngwema, Head of Communications at the Competition Commission of South Africa.
Violence and persecution globally is causing more people than ever to be forcibly displaced.The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees says 65.6 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide at the end of 2016. The UN report finds that the pace of displacement remains very high, on average 20 people are driven from their homes every minute or one every three seconds. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
Lungile Malinga , Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management looks at the Asian markets in light of mainland China's possible inclusion in the MSCI Index, South African bonds of South African equities and Shoprite is looking to target the higher end consumer.
COSATU's second deputy president Zingiswa Losi has criticised those endorsing Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma as the next president of the ANC. Losi lashed out at Dlamini-Zuma's supporters during the SACP's youth rally at Emalahleni in Mpumalanga. Eric Lubisi reports
President Jacob Zuma has emphasised the importance of education to young people. Addressing a youth celebration at Hammarsdale Township outside Durban, Zuma called on young people not to just pursue any career, but to focus on scarce skills. Zuma also repeated the ANC's call for accelerated radical economic transformation in order to address the country's skewed economy. The event was also attended by several cabinet ministers, including Public Works Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko and ANC Treasurer General, Zweli Mkhize. Vusi Makhosini reports…..
Market Analyst, Lungile Malinga of Effectus Capital Management looks at Asian markets as the UK start their formal Brexit negotiations, oil prices have been under pressure in the past 12 months, expected to go back as far as their historical lows of $30 a barrel and impact this would have on commodity currencies such as the rand...
South Africa has lost more than 120-billion US dollars or R 1,5 trillion in illicit financial flows over a ten year period. This is according to the Chairperson of Parliament's Standing Committee on Finance, Yunus Carrim. He has welcomed the gazetting of the Financial Intelligence Centre Amendment Act, or FICA ACT. The legislation has received a mixed welcome from some opposition parties and the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, CASAC. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
ANC Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the party has to re-position itself by defeating factionalism and infighting, if it wants to continue leading society. He also called on ANC branches to take the lead in holding its national leaders accountable. Ramaphosa was addressing delegates at the ANC Provincial Policy Conference at Stellenbosch in the Western Cape. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
The DA in Gauteng says an urgent court order should be brought against striking forensic assistants in Gauteng as the labour action is illegal. Bodies have been piling up in mortuaries in the province since forensic assistants embarked on a 'go slow' more than a week ago. The DA says the workers are disrespecting the dead and causing incredible anguish to relatives who are waiting to bury their loved ones. Medical personnel from the military have been brought in to assist in clearing the backlog at the mortuaries, which are now stands at more than 250 bodies.
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager looks at the Amazon purchase of Whole Foods, the Naspers rump and the impact of a lack on investment on economic growth
The Number 43 Foundation is commemorating Youth Day under the theme: Youth As Agents Of Change. The foundation was formed and named after house number 43 in Trelawney Park, which used to house young South Africans that had crossed the border to Swaziland to join Umkhonto we Sizwe or moving to other countries for seeking political asylum. Among those to be recognised are the black learners from Pretoria High School for girls for their heroic deed last year on the #BlackHairMustRiseCampaign. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Number 43 Foundation representative and author of the book Number 43 Trelawney Park, Elias Masilela......
Lesotho's prime minister-elect Tom Thabane is set to be inaugurated today despite the killing of his wife Lipolelo on Wednesday. Lipolelo Thabane was was shot dead in her home village of Ha Masanga as she was driving home with a friend. The killing has raised concerns about further political instability in the mountain kingdom. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prof. Mahlomole Kapa, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the National University of Lesotho....
DA MP and member of the Higher Education Committee in Parliament Hlomela Bucwa has described the ANC benches in the National Assembly as a retirement village that does not have young MPs. But her comment was met with fierce reaction from the ANC. Bucwa and various young MPs participated in the Youth Debate in the Assembly which took place ahead of June 16th commemorations. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
Taxi organisation - SANTACO - has reached an agreement with the South African Taxi Finance holdings. The agreement includes that monthly taxi instalments will be reduced by 1-thousand 800 rands. And a certain number of taxi operators listed on the credit bureau will be removed with immediate effect. The agreement was reached following a meeting between SANTACO and SA Taxi Finance holdings held at Emperors Palace on Gauteng's Eastrand. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports...
Maudi Lentsoane, CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at the Asian Markets which are trading lower after the Federal Reserve raised interest
The Public Protector's office says it will conduct a preliminary investigation into the merits of state capture allegations published in the leaked Gupta e-mails. Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane says some of the allegations point to improper or dishonest acts or offences with respect to public funds at tate-owned enterprises like Eskom, Transnet and Prasa. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says parents and learners must NOT panic over missing exams due to #TaxiStrike. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo, Lesufi said learners who will not be able to write exams due to #TaxiStrike will write at later date
Striking taxi drivers are blockading Gauteng's main highways, affecting the N1, N3, N14 and Johannesburg's M1. The N1 highway north-bound between Johannebsurg and Pretoria has now been opened to traffic. It was closed earlier at Allandale, New road, Olifantsfontein and the R101 exits. However, the N1 highway south-bound is still closed to traffic. Metro traffic officers are trying to remove a truck that striking taxi operators used to block the highway. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to COO in the business wing of SANTACO, Thulani Cwabe
The political cooperation between the EFF and the DA may be hanging in the balance if the media statement released by the EFF last night is anything to go by. The EFF had earlier threatened to suspend their co-operation agreement with the DA if the party does not take immediate and decisive action against it's former leader, Helen Zille, over her colonialism tweet. The EFF statement in part says the party has no relationship with the DA and does not owe them anything. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi
Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has accused Saudi Arabia of supporting militants inside Iran, days after Islamic State claimed attacks in Tehran. Relations between the two neighbours are at their most tense in years. Last week Saudi Arabia, along with other Arab governments, severed ties with Qatar, citing its support of Iran and claims of funding terrorist groups, as the main reasons for the move. Iran is now also calling for the establishment of a regional forum to resolve differences. Sakina Kamweno speaks to Naeem Jeenah, Executive Director of the Afro-Middle East Centre
The Minister of Finance Malusi Gigaba has authenticated the two letters disseminated by EFF Leader Juluis Malema about the citizenship of the Guptas. One of the letters clearly shows the family's application being declined, while the other letter, written a few months later, shows the Minister awarding the family early naturalisation. In a statement, the Minister states that his approval of the citizenship to the Gupta family was above board. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Immigration and Citizenship Attorney, Gary Eisenberg.
Another gang-related shooting has claimed the life of a man in the Northern areas of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. This happened while the Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Thabang Makwetla, was meeting the leaders from different gangs at the St Albans Prison on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth to resolve the gang problems in prisons and the Northern Areas of the city. Kim Daniels reports
The Office of the Premier in the North West Province says it has decided to suspend its working relations with the SABC. This follows allegations that the SABC in North West gives Premier Supra Mahumapelo special preference. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Provincial Head of Communication at the Office of the Premier in the North West Province, Brian Setswambung. Setswambung says premier will speak to the SABC, just NOT its North West Province
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as trading remains positive, led by Australia's ASX200, Teressa May apologies to her own law makers after disappointing UK results and MMI and African Bank team up to build a financial supermarket
Humanitarian Organization, The Gift of the Givers has been working tirelessly to secure the release of South African hostages - photo-journalist, Shiraaz Mohamed, held hostage in Syria and tourist, Stephen McGown, abducted in Mali. Shiraaz was kidnapped at gunpoint in January near the Turkish border in war-torn Syria. McGown, whose mother recently passed on without being re-united with his son, has been held by al-Qaeda in Mali since November 2011. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Founder and Director of the Gift of the Givers, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman for an update into the two cases...
Save Our SABC says it is pleased that corporation's former COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng is no longer an employee of the public broadcaster. This follows a disciplinary hearing against Motsoeneng after he held a media briefing in April. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Save Our SABC spokesperson, Duduetsang Makuse....
Information has emerged alleging that former Home Affairs, Malusi Gigaba unjustifiably approved the citizenship for the Gupta family. In a statement, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) say that the Gupta family's application was initially declined because they did not meet the requirements for naturalisation. However, a few months later, after the intervention of the former Home Affairs Minister, the application was approved. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the EFF's Chairperson Advocate Dali Mpofu
The Lesotho National Assembly has reconvened after elections. Former Speaker of the 2012 -2015 parliament Sephiri Motanyane was elected unopposed as Speaker. And all 117 of the 120 members were sworn-in, while the other 3 will be elected in by-elections Nthakoana Ngatane reports.
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Advisor at ETF South Africa looks at Moody's decision to downgraded SA's major banks and several other institutions and companies and GEM Diamonds has finds two large rocks at flagship mine in Lesotho
The SABC's former COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng is no longer an employee of the public broadcaster. The SABC interim board says it has notified Motsoeneng of its decision to accept the recommendation that he be dismissed. This follows a disciplinary hearing against Motsoeneng after he held a media briefing in April. He has since been found guilty of bringing the public broadcaster into disrepute. Sashin Naidoo reports
Lehumo Investment's group CEO Maudi Lentsoane looks at the Asian Markets starts the new week with a negative open and the Central banks are also in focus, with the Federal Reserve expected to release its decision on interest rates later this week.
Former ANC Treasurer Matthews Phosa says it is time for the ANC to be led by people who are prepared to follow in the footsteps of leaders like Oliver Tambo who selflessly led the organisation during tough times. He has also accused the current leaders of the ANC of not acting against President Jacob Zuma because they are also benefiting from corruption. He was addressing close to 300 party members in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats where he was endorsed by seven branches to run for the ANC Presidency. Joseph Mosia reports...
Roads leading to the Roodepoort CBD have been blocked off to traffic West of Johannesburg. This follows a protest by Davidsonville residents. The motive for the protest is not known at this stage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kay Makhubele...
· Late on Friday night Moody's announced the downgrade of South Africa's credit rating by one notch. Please re-cap for us, where do we now stand with the three big ratings agencies. Does this latest move by Moody's change anything? · The release of the 1st quarter GDP numbers last week confirmed what has been experienced by many of us - that the economy is in recession. But what is the significance of a so-called technical recession? Is there another kind? · With the economy so weak and inflation apparently under control, does this open the door for the Reserve Bank to reduce interest rates?
Residents of Knysna in the Western Cape have spent the second consecutive night outside their homes as raging fires continue to dominate the Garden Route. Fire fighters and defence force members worked troughout the night, trying to contain the fires, fanned by strong winds. A number of people were evacuated after the fire gutted 50 shacks in White Location. Victims are accommodated in various halls and schools across the town. Sagree Chetty filed this report
The MK National Council says it will not be attending this weekend's MK Military Veterans Association (MKMVA)'s elective congress which starts in Boksburg, on JHB's East Rand, today. The Veterans Association has inturn, called the decision by the MK National Council to boycott the elective congress as immature. Sakina Kamwendo speak to ANC stalwart General Siphiwe Nyanda, who leads the MK National Council and Chairperson of MKMVA, Kebby Maphatsoe
Lungile Malinga , Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management looks at political developments amid the recession in SA, tell us more about that.
Firefighters and SANDF soldiers have brought the Knysna Fires under control along most of the Garden Route which began on Tuesday. The death toll from the Knysna fires now stands at five The area has been declared a disaster zone. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mcebisi Ngqina
Research Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at the manufacturing production data released yesterday- what does this tell us about growth in South Africa? Mining production growth slowed to 1.7% in April and the the European Central Bank forecasts higher growth but keeps rates on hold.
On the Forum@8 this morning, we hosted the Mpumalanga education MEC, Reginah Mhaule, to talk about 'education' issues in her province. We have, in recent weeks, received sms's and emails from our listeners, about a variety of issues of concern.
The Chairperson of the DA's Federal Executive, James Selfe, has refuted allegations by Helen Zille that the party has treated her unfairly and had decided to suspend her even before she had a chance to give reasons why she should not be suspended. Zille, who is still Western Cape Premier, was suspended yesterday pending the outcome of her disciplinary hearing. The matter relates to her controversial tweets on colonialism. Her hearing begins tomorrow. Selfe says the fact that Zille continues to try to justify her comment shows that the party's decision is justifiable
The Dept of Health is refuting claims by Francine Ngalula Kalala, the woman from the DRC who gave birth at Park Station in the Joburg CBD last Thursday, allegedly because she was turned away from three hospitals because of her asylum status. The Dept says Kalala refused to deliver her baby via cesarean section and willingly left the Tshwane District Hospital on the day she delivered her baby.
Several areas around Knysna have been evacuated overnight after some places in the Southern Cape town was engulfed in flames. Raging fires are currently burning uncontrollably from two fronts. A church, a school hostel are among some of the establishments that have been razed to the ground. The Knysna provincial hospital was also evacuated overnight due to possible smoke inhalation. Meanwhile, the George Municipality send fifteen Go George buses to assist with evacuations. More fire resources and personnel have been deployed from Cape Town. It is estimated that it may take at least two days for the SANDF to reach the town.
8 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the storm lashing the Western Cape. Gale force winds and heavy rains are being experienced in the province. Four people died when a house caught alight in Paarl. The storms also claimed a victim in Lavender Hill on the Cape Flats. Meanwhile, about one-thousand informal dwellers have been affected by the inclement weather lashing the province. Disaster Management Team say about four-hundred people have been hit in Macassar Village when their shacks took in water while five-hundred other dwellers suffered similar discomfort in Madiba Square near Phillipi and Hout Bay.
Police are now investigating a case of murder the post-mortem results of Thembisile Yende proved that she was assaulted. Family spokesperson, Mbobeni Yende has urged for anyone with information to contact the police so the family can eventually find closure...
NEHAWU in Parliament is calling for the suspension of the Secretary to Parliament, Gengezi Mgidlana. The union is accusing Mgidlana of maladministration and has written to the Presiding Officers asking them to suspend him. Stembiso Tembe, NEHAWU Chairperson in Parliament and Parliament's spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo talk to us about the issues raised by NEHAWU...
SAPU's General Secretary, Oscar Skommere and the police's Brigadier Div Odendaal, from its Human Resources department on the South African Policing Union (SAPU) is threatening to close down all 10111 centres across the country if management does not respond positively to their demands. Today the 10111 employees are undertaking a national march to Pretoria, in what they call, a stern warning to the Police management, for the delaying tactics of frustrate employees...
The seventh provincial conference of the ANC women's league in the North West, has formally endorsed former African Union Chairperson, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, to become the next ANC President in December. The ruling party's women's league held its provincial elective conference over the weekend in Haartebeespoort near Rustenburg. Patrick Dintwa reports
The South African Communist Party has called for an independent judicial commission of inquiry into state capture to be established immediately. This is in the wake of continuing media reports of a trail of leaked emails cementing perceptions of the Gupta family's hold over the state. Speaking after the party central committee meeting SACP general secretary Blade Nzimande says the emails are worrying. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille, says she wants to be given a chance to explain her case following the Democratic Alliance's announcement of its intention to suspend her. Over the weekend DA leader, Mmusi Maimane, announced that Zille would be suspended from all party-related activities pending the outcome of a disciplinary hearing into her Tweets on colonialism. Zille says proper processes were not followed. This report by Amos Phago
The confusion surrounding the suspension or not of Hellen Zille from the Democratic Alliance (DA) has left many people wondering who really is in charge of the party. This follows the announcement by the Leader of the Party, Mmusi Maimane that Zille was suspended and a later clarification by Federal Executive chairperson James Selfe that it was actually an intention to suspend. Meanwhile former leader of the DA, Tony Leon, went on twitter to vouch his support for Maimane.
The South African Communist Party has called for an independent judicial commission of inquiry into state capture to be established immediately. This is in the wake of continuing media reports of a trail of leaked emails cementing perceptions of the Gupta family's hold over the state. Speaking after the party central committee meeting SACP general secretary Blade Nzimande says the emails are worrying.
Counting of ballots is under way following Saturday's general elections in Lesotho. The election is seen as a two-horse race between old rivals Pakalitha Mosisili and Thomas Thabane, who have both served as prime minister. The snap election was called after Prime Minister Mosisili lost a no-confidence vote in March after his seven-party coalition government broke up.
Two Metrorail trains have collided in Elansfontein on Gauteng's East Rand. The collision has affected traffic in the area. Metrorail is yet to give further details. Metrorail spokesperson Tony Games says they're still investigating on what happened.....
South Africa's constitutional democracy is under threat and constitutional accountability by government officials has been eroded. These were the words of The Board of Trustees of the Nelson Mandela Foundation as they added their views on the state of the country, during a media briefing yesterday evening. The Board of Trustees also lamented incidents of violence plaguing the country as well as what the Foundation calls the continued assault on the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
As South Africans mark Child Protection Week, learners from four different schools in Lavender Hill in Cape Town are appealing for help, saying they are afraid to go to school due to on-going gang violence in the area. The principal of one of the schools - Hillwood Primary School - says he is concerned about his students' safety as gangs run amok in the area. Although Police have been deployed to the area, some learners are still concerned for their safety. On Monday, four people were reportedly gunned down in the area.
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at says the resignation by Thabo Dloti as CEO of South African insurer Liberty Holdings is a set back for transformation. Lentsoane says there is a need for 'Radical Executive Transformation' in South African businesses. Standard Bank corporate and investment banking CEO David Munro is taking over from Dloti.
The Sex Workers Education and Advocacy Taskforce (SWEAT) has reiterated its call for the legalisation of sex work in South Africa. They say crimes against sex workers go unreported and unpunished as sex work still remains illegal in the country. Pearl Magubane reports
The family of an Eskom employee whose body was found at her place of work - thirteen days after having been reported missing - suspect it was an inside job. Thembisile Yende was found dead inside her locked office. Yende was an electrician working at an Eskom sub-station in Springs on Gauteng's Eastrand. Ditaba Tsotetsi and Candice Nolan compiled this report
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) wants South Africans to boycott all Zambian products. This in light of what they call authoritarianism and dictatorship of Zambian President Edgar Lungu. Last month the government of Lungu charged the leader of the opposition Hakainde Hichilema of treason for allegedly not giving way to a Presidential convoy. Six days ago DA Leader Mmusi Maimane was deported from Zambia when he went to visit Hichilema. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Acting National Spokesperson for NUMSA, Phakamile Hlubi.
The motion of no confidence against President Jacob Zuma, the use of courts by the opposition when there's disagreements, gender based violence and the impasse on salary negotiations with Nehawu affiliated members are some of the issues which featured strongly during the debate on Parliament's budget vote. Lulama Matya reports.
George Glynos, Economist and Managing Director at ETM Analytics looks at; Growth in money supply and credit extension yesterday was soft, Trade balance data is scheduled for today and Chinese manufacturing seems to be holding up, good news for commodity economies
Judgment has been reserved in the Janus Walusz parole case. This after a procedural irregularity halted Justice minister Michael Masutha's appeal against parole granted to Chris Hanis' killer last year. Ishmael Modiba reports
ANC stalwarts and veterans are calling for the party's MP's to table their own motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma in Parliament. This comes after the party's NEC decided not to recall Zuma this past weekend. The stalwarts say 'no member of the ANC who falls prey to the dictates of commercial and self-interest must be allowed to remain in Government in the name of or act on behalf of the ANC'.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have spent the night trying to rescue foreign shop owners near KwaMashu hostel and surrounding areas north of Durban. This comes after some locals allegedly stormed into the foreign owned shops and looted them. The incident is allegedly to have been prompted by reports of learners who were kidnapped at their schools in KwaMashu. However, police in KwaZulu-Natal have dismissed the reports as unfounded. Sakina Kamwendo speask to Police spokesperson Colonel Thulani Zwane.
George Glynos, economist at ETM Analytics looks at what are the implications of the ANC’s inability to oust Zuma, Oil prices remaining subdued as US shale ramps up, some good news for the global economy and this week may bring more ratings news updates.
ANC NEC member Matthews Phosa has warned NEC members who are supporting President Jacob Zuma to stay in power that they are running a risk of people loosing confidence to the movement and the leadership. Delivering the O.R Tambo memorial Lecture at Sekakene village of Botlokwa outside Polokwane in Limpopo, Phosa reitereted calls for Zuma to resign. Phosa says NEC members who are supporting Zuma should just resign with him and leave those who have the interest of the party at heart to remain and rebuild the ANC. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase has compiled the following report.
President Jacob Zuma is reported to have survived a motion of no-confidence in him at an ANC National Executive Committee meeting in Irene outside Pretoria. This is the second time he has survived the motion in six months. Zuma is facing mounting pressure within the ANC as well as from opposition parties and civil society to step down. This report by Tshepo Ikaneng was filed during the party's NEC in pretoria over the weekend
More than 50 percent of children in South Africa experience violence at the hands of the people who should be caring for them. That's according to research conducted by the Institute for Security Studies into violence against women and children. As the country commemorates Child Protection Week we look at the state of children in our country. Thabile Mbhele reports
A third suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Hannah Cornelius, a student from the University of Stellenbosch, who was allegedly killed during a hijacking. The 21-year-old's body was found on the side of the road after the vehicle she was travelling in with a friend was hijacked. He was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Lynne Arendse reports
A week search for a 20 year-old woman with albinism has resulted in the gruesome discovery of her body. The body of Asanda Mbuyazi was found stripped naked in the bushes near her home at Ndlabeyilandula, in KwaMbonambi near Richards Bay on the KwaZulu-Natal. Her body had multiple stab wounds. Mbuyazi was reported missing last Sunday and was found last night by police. She was last seen with her boyfriend who is said to be the father of their five-month old baby. Police are looking for the boyfriend who has since fled from his home, not far from Mbuyazi's homestead. Vusi Khumalo reports
Minister for Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Maphisa-Nqakula says they are finding it increasingly difficult to fulfill their mandate because of continuous budget cuts. She says the budget of her departments has been decreasing by five percent per annum over the past 20 years. She says for them to achieve the goals set in the Defence Review, they need the budget to increase to at least two percent of GDP over time. Opposition parties have criticised the department's failure to plan according to available resources. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Correspondent at African Defence Review, Darren Olivier..
Plans are underway to reopen the Lily gold mine near Barberton in Mpumalanga. Vantage Goldfields, which owns the Lily Gold Mine, has merged with another mining company enhancing prospects of re-opening the mine. Lily Gold Mine remains shut, following a massive landfall that trapped three workers underground. Their bodies have not been recovered. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi attended a meeting between the former workers and management of the Vantage Goldfields about the future of the mine
The Economic Freedom Fighters Leader Julius Malema has once again called on Africans to take land from what he calls the colonisers. Malema was addressing his supporters at Joubert Park in the Johannesburg CBD, as the continent marked Africa Day yesterday. Mbali Sibanyoni reports....
African Union Chairperson, Mousa Mahamat, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in South Sudan citing "unspeakable suffering" on civilians in Africa's youngest nation. In a speech read on his behalf during celebrations to mark Africa day in Nairobi, Mahamat called on leaders from both sides of the conflict to stop the killings and establish inclusive dialogue. South Sudan has witnessed renewed fighting despite a peace agreement signed in August 2015. At least one million people have fled the country and another 2 million are living in camps for displaced persons. The United Nations declared a famine in some parts of the war weary country. Sarah Kimani has the highlights of celebrations on Africa day in Kenya...
Nadir Tokhan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers looks at the increase in Tiger brands earnings, Producer Price Index numbers came out yesterday and what to expect from the U.S GDP numbers coming out today?
A group of academics investigating reports of state capture believes a 'silent coup' has taken place in South Africa. The group, consisting of academics from various institutions of higher learning released a 72-page report yesterday at the Wits School of Governnance in Johannesburg. The report says that a power elite centred around President Jacob Zuma has managed to build a symbiotic relationship between the constitutional state and what it calls a shadow state to execute this coup. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to one of the authors of the report, Dr Mzukisi Qobo...
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets heading for a negative close for the week, Oil Prices continuing to fall as OPEC deal disappoints and the latest polls show Theresa May's Conservative Party's in the lead has narrowed ahead of the June 8 elections...
Eskom has been given a green light to switch off lights for owing municipalities. This follows yesteday's dismissal by the Pretoria High Court of an application by Afriforum preventing Eskom from interrupting power from non-paying municipalities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Suzanne Daniels, the Head of Legal at Eskom
Opposition parties in Parliament have accused Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown of failing to exercise her oversight role on state-owned companies. Brown was delivering her department's budget vote. The debate was characterised by the saga surrounding Eskom CEO Brian Molefe's return to the power utility after taking "unpaid leave" and being sworn-in as an ANC MP. Lulama Matya reports
Communications Minister, Ayanda Dlodlo, says the mainstream media in South Africa is in trouble in the wake of the "fake news" phenomenon. "Fake news" has been defined as deliberate online misinformation campaigns. Speaking during a panel discussion hosted by the South African National Editor's Forum in Cape Town, Dlodlo added that the media must be vigilant when fact checking. Lynne Arendse reports...
Today marks a milestone in the commemoration of the birth of Pan Africanism. May 25 is the historic day in which the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) was formed 1963. The continental body which is now called the African Union was created to promote unity and solidarity among African states. President Jacob Zuma will this morning host the national Africa Day celebration at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
Parliament has heard how the Knysna Municipality in the Western Cape has been plagued by corruption, maladministration and tender irregularities. This was revealed by a Knysna resident and activist, Mike Hampton, who petitioned the NCOP's Select Committee on Petitions and Executive Undertakings in Parliament. Some of Hampton's claims were confirmed by another resident, Susan Campbell. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more.
The Independent Electoral Commission is this morning expected to announce the results of the by-elections in Nquthu, KZN. The Commission says the by-election voting process has gone smoothly. The KZN government dissolved the council in February after it failed to elect its leaders, including the mayor and speaker, following last August's local government elections. At least 14 political parties are contesting the by-election. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Kwa-Zulu Natal Chief Electoral Officer, Mawethu Mosery
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Ronesh Dhawraj on the bi-elections in Nquthu. He says he does NOT see any prospects of a hung council or coalitions going on the municipality.
The Independent Electoral Commission says the by-election voting process in Nquthu, KZN, has gone smoothly. The KZN government dissolved the council in February after it failed to elect its leaders, including the mayor and speaker, following last August's local government elections. At least 14 political parties are contesting the by-election.
Sakina Kamwendo and Janet Whitten speak to the BlitzBokke coach Neil Powell and Captain Philip Snyman after winning the World Rugby Sevens Series Champions on Saturday in France
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets which mostly higher following a record close on Wall Street, Nato members anxiously hope Donald Trump's visit will bring renewed commitment to fight terrorism and SARB MPC likely to keep the repo rate on hold at 7.00% on the improved inflation.
An 8-hour hostage drama involving the Mayor of Ditsobotla in Litchenburg in the North West, only ended in the early hours of this morning. Mayor Daniel Buthelezi and his two body-guards were freed, after disgruntled residents, armed with different weapons and petrol bombs stormed the municipal offices. They demanded the implementation of promised services and projects in their area. Mpho Lepedi filled this report..
Nadir Tokhan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers loos at about inflation numbers that came out yesterday and gives an update on the US Federal reserve minutes
Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor, Athol Trollip says he can no longer work with his Deputy Mayor, Mongameli Bobani. This is despite Monday night's discussions between the DA and its coalition partners to resolve the conflict between him and Bobani. Trollip made the announcement following a heated meeting where Deputy Mayor Bobani repeatedly opposed views raised by Trollip. Kim Daniels reports..
The ANC in the North West says it was unaware that Brian Molefe was still contracted to Eskom when it deployed him to the National Assembly. Molefe, who initially resigned as Eskom CEO late last year following the release of Public Protectors' State Capture report, resigned as a member of Parliament last week and returned to his previous post of CEO at the parastatal. However, Molefe and the Public Enterprises Minister, Lynne Brown, say he never resigned, and was in fact on unpaid leave. Lucas Mothibedi reports...
The City of Johannesburg is going after commercial customers including hotels and shopping malls in an effort to recoup 5-billion rands a year from unpaid rates and taxes. The City's Finance MMC Rabelani Dagada says the previous ANC - led administration failed to invoice many of its customers resulting in the city now sitting with a debtor's book of 17-billion rand. He says the billing system within the city has reached crisis levels but interventions are in place to recover the lost revenue. Tshepo Phagane reports….
Voting has just started in Nquthu in northern KwaZulu-Natal in a closely watched by-election. The ANC, DA, IFP EFF and NFP have all campaigned strongly in the area in the past few days. No council has been elected since last year's local elections due to a deadlock between parties. The IEC in the province says it's ready to receive over 80 thousand eligible voters at more than a hundred voting stations in the 17 wards. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Vusi Makhosini and IEC Provincial Electoral Officer, Mawethu Mosery...
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets as they are mostly lower following Moody's downgrading of China credit rating, Rand advances on report ANC members to discuss removing Zuma and Oil gains on talks of a further OPEC production cuts tomorrow
President Jacob Zuma is now blacklisted from speaking at all COSATU activities. This is according to a stern directive issued by the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). Lately, COSATU's affiliates expressed their unhappiness by booing at the President when he was trying to address the May Rally in Bloemfontein. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Labour Analyst and Inside Labour columnist at Fin24 and City Press, Terry Bell...
Diepkloof residents in Soweto have embarked on a service delivery protest. The protesters took to the streets this morning, blockading Chris Hani road with various objects. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police spokesperson, Kay Makhubele.
Nadir Tokhan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers looks at what to expect from Moodys as it is expected to release its ratings review of south Africa- the ratigns agency has already downgrade China's credit rating and the risk of passive investing in South Africa.
The family of 16-year-old Matlhomola Mosweu who was killed in Coligny in North-West last month, is to receive three houses from the Human Settlements Department and non-governmental organisation, Gift of the Givers. Two farmers are accused of killing Moshoeu by throwing him off a moving bakkie. This triggered violent protests in the small farming town. Sisi Segalo reports
Five out of six people died when they were shot while they were travelling in a Taxi at KwaDabhasi, near KwaNongoma in KwaZulu-Natal yesterday. The Office of the MEC for Transport, Community Safety in KZN has confirmed that the five died on the scene, while the sixth survived. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are under investigation. The MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison in KZN, Mxolisi Kaunda visited the area of KwaDabhasi, after the shooting.
There are over six thousands disused gold, chrome, diamond and platinum mines across South Africa that have created a thriving underground economy. One mining expert believes the illegal underground mining industry supports thousands of people above ground in small mining towns like Welkom where at least 34 "zama zamas" were killed in an underground explosion last week. Wits University anthropologist Prof. Robert Thornton, who specialises in studying illegal mining, says illegal mining has a very big impact on the economies of mining towns. Millions of rands in sex, food and alcohol is being traded in secret underground cities.
A meeting involving national leaders of coalition parties in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro ran late into the evening last night. The meeting between the DA, UDM, COPE and the ACDP was meant to decide the future of the deputy mayor, UDM's Mongameli Bobani in the coalition. Executive major, Athol Trollip had earlier sacked Bobani from the position of the Head of Public Health in the Mayoral Committee. It's been reported that Trollip now intends on tabling a motion that will strip Bobani of his deputy mayor title. Bobani and Trollip have been at logger heads since the formation of the coalition last year.
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Shares which are trading mixed following the deadly Manchester Arena attack, Iraq pumped 800-thousand more barels a day than is permitted by the OPEC agreement reached in November last year and General Motors announce another exit, yesterday it announced it was exiting India.
Nadir Tokhan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers talks about the short term opportunity offered by the political noise, US President Donald Trump's proposed budget plan and Pioneer Foods earnings tumble.
Backyard dwellers will be among those who will be prioritised by government when giving assistance on housing. This is according to promises by the Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Paul Mashatile when he met with residents of Finetown and Ennerdale yesterday afternoon. The meeting follows recent protests over housing that erupted in the area. Mashatile said there are plans to obtain private land near Finetown as well as government land which will be earmarked for housing development. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director General for the Department of Human Settlements, Keith Khoza....
The ANC says a review of governance, frameworks of state-owned entities as well as the reconfiguration of the state is necessary to achieve the party's developmental goals. The NEC Sub-Committee on Governance and Legislature says they've recognised shortcomings at various government levels and SOEs - and the proposed policy document aims to address those issues.The party's Policy Conference is set to take place next month. Noma Bolani reports...
Warning: The following story may be disturbing for sensitive listeners!!!!
The family of a woman who was allegedly stabbed to death by her boyfriend at In Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape says it is devastated by her death. Forty-four-year-old Zingiswa Polotye's body was found cut to pieces in a pool of blood last week in Luqoqweni village. Fundiswa Mhlekude reports....
Market analyst Nadir Tokhan of 27-Four Investment Managers looks at South African markets after General Motors announced it was pulling out of the South African Market and the expectations and impacts of a low return environment that we experiences...
The fate of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Deputy Mayor, Mongameli Bobani of the UDM, will be decided tomorrow. Some political parties in the coalition government have made it clear that they will oppose any motion that would be tabled in the council on Tuesday seeking to get rid of Bobani. This after the Executive Mayor of the municipality, Athol Trollip, confirmed that he is planning to table a motion that will strip Bobani off his deputy mayor title. Trollip has already fired Bobani from the position of the Head of Public Health in the Mayoral Committee.The tension between the two has spilled over to the parties' national leaders, with UDM leader Bantu Holomisa saying that the axing of Bobani would be against the fundamentals of the coalition. Mkhokheli Bandla spoke to all the parties in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Council and compiled this report
It's now emerged that the reported abduction of jailed Thembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's brother, Prince Jongisizwe Mthandeni Mankuku, was a hoax. Police in the Eastern Cape went on a wild goose chase on Friday looking for Mankuku after reports that he had been abducted by four men. In a dramatic turn of events, Prince Mankunku told SABCNEWS that he made up the story to get the nation's attention. He claims he feels ignored and overlooked by government for the acting kingship position, in favour of his brother's son, Prince Azenathi Zanelizwe Dalindyebo. Mbasa Khwaza has more
The remains of two men who were trapped underground in a mine in Germiston, east of Johannesburg have been brought above the surface. It is believed that the owner of the mine and one employee had descended more than seventy-five meters into the mine to check on water levels. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ER24 spokesperson, Annine Siddall......
Residents of Mangaung in the Free State say they are living in fear as teenage gangsters run amok in the city. One of the residents, an SAfm listener Thulani Mbaza, says his friend was attacked outside his home in Phase six by about 100 young boys NOT older than 16, when he returned from work. Mbaza says there is a long-standing rivalry between two gangs, the Romas and Born To Kill. Mangaung has seen frequent incidents of gang violence in recent years. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Thulani Mbaza and Free State Police Spokesperson, Colonel Thandi Mbambo to get clarity on the situation
The disciplinary inquiry for former SABC COO, Hlaudi Motsoeneng with the SABC, has been postponed until next Wednesday. Meanwhile, Motsoeneng is expected to urgently approach the Labour Court after losing a bid to have the matter referred to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration, The CCMA. Candice Nolan filed this report
Group CEO at Lehumo Investments Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets ending what was a turbulent week for Global equity Markets on a positive note, General Motors withdrawal from South Africa a great blow to the Country and weaker rand boost the JSE to end a week slightly positive.
The Secretary General of the South African Council of Churches, Malusi Mpumlwana, says South Africa is just inches away from becoming a mafia state. Mpumlwana was speaking at a Council of Churches briefing at the Regina Mundi Church in Soweto. The SACC is releasing a report from its 'Unburdening Panel' which was created after former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas made allegations of state capture corruption by the Gupta family. The Panel is a moral response to the Promise of a free post-apartheid South Africa. Mpumlwana says it's their responsibility as the church to protect South Africans. Tshepo Mongoai reports
Economist and Managing Director at ETM Analytics George Glynos says General Motor's disinvestment from South Africa is a sign of how tough business is to conduct in the country and a clear message to policy makers?
President Jacob Zuma has expressed shock at the manner in which the police handled the investigation into the disappearance and death of three-year-old Courtney Pieters from Salberau in Elsies River on the Cape Flats. The three-year-old's body was found in a shallow grave in Epping last weekend after being missing for more than a week. Zuma visited the Pieters family at at their home to convey his condolences. Lynne Arendse reports
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets with Shares trading lower, following a heavy sell off on Wall Street; China's Home Price growth easing in April and Tencent's revenue soaring to 55%
Mourners at the memorial service for Karabo Mokoena have pleaded with men to stand up and protect women and children . The 22-year-old's burnt body was discovered in an open veld in Lyndhurst north of Johannesburg. Mokoena's boyfriend, Sandile Mantsoe, has been charged with her murder and defeating the ends of justice. In recent incidents involving gender-based violence, four Soweto women have been murdered and allegedly raped since Friday last week. Mokoena's memorial service was held in the Diepkloof community hall, Soweto on Wednesday. Ditaba Tsotetsi was there...
Recent studies indicate that by the age of 17, one in three young people experience a sexually abusive incident. Last year at least 784 900 young South Africans were sexually abused. For years Childline has been playing a big role in the lives of vulnerable children. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of Childline in Gauteng, Lynne Cawood...
The number of bodies of illegal miners retrieved from the Eland Mine Shaft in Welkom in the Free State has increased to 25 from the 24 reported yesterday. Nine surviving illegal miners - known as Zama-Zamas - have also been arrested. Police says a 25th body was found yesterday and more bodies still remain underground. Thabiso Radebe filed this report
The Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane says she is shocked by the return of Brian Molefe as Eskom CEO. Molefe announced his departure from Eskom in November last year, citing the interests of good corporate governance as one of the reasons. This followed a public outcry against Molefe following the release of the former public protector's State of Capture Report. Mkhwebane was in the Bhisho in the Eastern Cape, meeting provincial lawmakers, the executive and the civil society. Yanga Funani reports...
Former Minister of Mineral Resources Ngaoko Ramathlodi has told a forum that former ANC President and struggle icon Oliver Tambo fore sore the difficulties being faced today. Ramathlodi was speaking during a critical thinking forum, held at the Wits University on Tuesday, alongside ANC stalwarts Barbara Masekela and Sheila Sisulu. Mbali Sibanyoni filed this reports….
The United States has rejected claims from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea that Washington is trying to assassinate its leader Kim Jon-Un, as the UN Security Council weighs tougher sanctions against the rogue state. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea fired its latest ballistic missile on Sunday in violation of several Security Council resolutions, a move that was immediately condemned by the international community. The Council has stressed that it was vital for North Korea to show a sincere commitment to denuclearisation through concrete action and stressed the importance of working to reduce tensions. Sherwin Bryce-Peace reports...
The gloves are off in the long-simmering battle between acting National Police Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) Robert MCBride. Phahlane has accused IPID of being captured and of targeting him illegally. On the other hand, IPID claims that Phahlane is abusing state resources to launch counter-investigations against its investigators who are probing his alleged involvement in tender and other irregularities. The police watchdog body has accused Phahlane of deploying a senior police team to obstruct its investigation into him. IPID head Robert Mcbride and Phahlane, accompanied by fellow officers, yesterday appeared before Parliament's Police Committee together for the first time. Krivani Pillay spoke to Dr Johan Burger from the Institute for Security Studies.....
The City of Cape Town's Mayoral Committee says Level Four water restrictions could be implemented next month once they are approved by council. Mayoral Committee Member for Utility Services, Xanthia Limberg, says they're currently considering recommendations for tougher restrictions. Bongi Gwala spoke to Kim Stevens who is a resident of Claremont in Cape Town on how as residents they are affected by the water restrictions
The Democratic Alliance's Member of the KwaZulu-Natal legislature, Mbali Ntuli will face charges related to her social media comments. This despite the DA's Federal Legal Commission finding that there was no case to be made against Ntuli. The charges came after Ntuli liked a comment on Facebook that called the Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille a racist. Bongi Gwala spoke to the DA's member of the Federal Legal Commission, Alan Mcloughlin...
Eskom board chairperson, Ben Ngubane, has described as preposterous former Mining minister, Ngoako Ramatlhodi's allegations that Eskom CEO Brian Molefe and Ngubane pressed him to blackmail Glencore. Ngubane was speaking on the sidelines of the 17th annual African Utility Week conference in Cape Town. Ramatlhodi claims he was fired for not complying. Earlier Bongi Gwala spoke to former Mining minister, Ngoako Ramatlhodi about his allegations and Eskom board spokesperson Khulani Qoma
A University of Witwatersrand student who was abducted on her way to campus has been found in Ga-Rankuwa. The 22 year old was allegedly forced into a vehicle by unknown suspects who were following her on the Nelson Mandela Bridge into Braamfrontein. The kidnapping victim was then drugged and assaulted by the suspects. But the woman made a brave escape when her captors' made a stop around Ga-Rankuwa. Bongi Gwala spoke to the friend of the kidnapping victim, Melody Miya and Lieutenant-Colonel Lungelo Dlamini, Gauteng police spokesperson
On his first day back at work after resigning from as Eskom CEO six month ago, Brian Molefe has reversed the utility's decision to close four power stations in Mpumalanga. The Power Utility had previously indicated plans to close the power stations to accommodate renewable independent power producers. Molefe also promised staff members at Eskom that he will address the problem of the apartheid wage gaps. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
Hundreds of people from political parties and civil organisations braved the cold, and headed the call to march to the Constitutional Court on Monday. Demonstrators dressed in their different party regalia continued their call for the President Jacob Zuma to step down, while also supporting the UDM's application for a secret ballot to be carried out in parliament when MP's vote on a motion of no-confidence in the President. Mbali Sibanyoni filled this reports….
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has accused some judges of interfering with political processes in favour of certain opposition parties. Party members marched to the Durban High court following the recent decision by Pretoria High court's Judge Bashier Valley where he ruled that President Jacob Zuma must provide basis for his decision to axe both former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and his deputy Mcebisi Jonas. The party in the province also called on the judiciary to investigate whether or not Judge Valley acted impartially on the matter. Vusi Makhosini reports.
Schools have reopened in the trouble torn Coligny township in the North West after three weeks of disruptions which have left the area racially divided. Some houses belonging to white residents were burnt after two men accused of killing a teenage boy were released on bail. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi filled this report.
People are slowly beginning to trickle into the Mary Fitzgerald Square, from where opposition political parties and civil movements are expected to march to the Constitutional Court. The court will hear arguments in which the UDM is asking the speaker of national assembly to carry out a secret ballot, when MP's vote on a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma.
Police have disputed claims that the suspect in the death of 22 year old Karabo Mokoena whose boy was found in a veld in Lyndhurst Johannesburg burnt beyond recognition had committed suicide. Police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo says they have been receiving calls over the alleged suicide. He says the reports are fallacious.
Schooling is expected to resume this morning in the small farming town of Coligny in the North West. The town was engulfed by violent protests for the past two weeks. Residents disrupted classess forcing learners to support the community in solidarity against the killing of the sixteen year old Matlhomola Mosweu allegedly by 2 farmers who have since appeared in court.
The ANC wants the public enterprises minister to reverse her decision to re-appoint Eskom chief executive Brian Molefe. Minister Lynne Brown has been reportedly summoned to appear at the ANC's headquarters today, to explain Friday's decision to re-appoint Molefe, which was heavily criticised by opposition parties and unions. Meanwhile COPE has warned Molefe not to report for duty this morning because he will be prevented from entering the utility's gate.
Human Settlements Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has given the technical team tasked with responding to housing protests, two weeks to verify the housing list database in the south of Johannesburg. The Minister, together with Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Paul Mashatile and Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba, met yesterday in Soweto with the leadership of communities such as Eldorado Park, Ennerdale, Freedom Park and Kliptown about their housing concerns. These communities engaged in week-long violent protests, demanding houses and other services. Wisani Makhubele has more
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at the Asian Markets which opened positive despite disappointing Chinese Economic Data and Oil is trading higher after Saudi and Russia Ministers says they favour a production cuts extension until March 2018.
The SACP has commended the ANC NEC for condemning the re-appointment of Eskom CEO Brian Molefe and the unilateral cabinet reshuffle by Northern Cape Premier Sylvia Lucas recently. SACP Deputy Secretary General Jeremy Cronin was addressing delegates at the Western Cape SACP Provincial Congress over the weekend. The Provincial SACP has meanwhile resolved to support a call on President Jacob Zuma to step down. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mecerdes Besent tells us more.
President Jacob Zuma has described former AU Commission Chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma as one of the best ANC leaders who will undoubtedly do exceptionally well in whatever leadership position. Zuma was speaking during a church service in Bulwer on the KwaZulu-Natal midlands to welcome her back home after serving in the African Union. Dlamini Zuma is expected to race for the ANC President position against deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa during the party's National Conference in December. Vusi Makhosini reports
ANC deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa says the alliance must be strengthened in order to protect the gains of the revolution. Ramaphosa delivered a key note address in Durban at the SADTU's provincial elective conference in KwaZulu/Natal. Ramaphosa emphasised the need for unity within the alliance. Khalesakhe Mbhense attended the conference and filled this report.
Protesters have stoned a number of vehicles between Orange Farm and the Grasmere Toll Plaza overnight on the Golden Highway, South of Johannesburg. There have been reports of a total shut down in all the protest hit southern Joburg townships. The violent protest started in Eldorado Park on Monday and it has since spread to Ennerdale, Orange Farm, Finetown and Klipspruit. They are demanding houses, land and better services. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to police spokesperson in the area, Captain Johannes Motseri...
A Political Committee will be established to work with community structures in response to the recent protests in different parts of Gauteng. This is the resolution that emerged from a joint meeting of national and provincial departments that met yesterday to map out a strategy to end the violent protests in many parts of Gauteng. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Paul Mashatile who was part of the meeting.
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo, says his government is preparing what he called the best legal team, to have the bail application of two men in Coligny accused of killing a school boy, revoked. Mahumapelo who is set to visit the area today, also accused the magistrate on the case of being irrational.This is after the release of murder-accused, Pieter Doreeward and Phillip Schutte on bail - a decision that triggered violent protests. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi has the details
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo, says his government is preparing what he called the best legal team, to have the bail application of two men in Coligny accused of killing a school boy, revoked. Mahumapelo who is set to visit the area Friday, also accused the magistrate on the case of being irrational.This is after the release of murder-accused, Pieter Doreeward and Phillip Schutte on bail a decision that triggered violent protests. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi has the details...
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa defended his decision to apologise for the killing of mine workers in Marikana in August 2012. Ramphosa was answering questions in the National Assembly. He also defended the position of his party to toe the line if it has to vote against a Motion of No Confidence in President Jacob Zuma. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Gauteng Police say they have deployed enough manpower to deal with today's shut down at several protest hit areas in the South of Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke police spokesperson in the area, Captain Johannes Motseri
Former Eskom CEO, Brian Molefe is returning to his job in the power utility. Molefe, now an ANC MP, resigned from Eskom last November after the Public Protector's State Capture report named him as having contacted the influential Gupta family over Eskom tenders. He was sworn as member of parliament in February. Eskom's Khulani Qoma has confirmed that Molefe will be in the office on Monday
Following violent protest in the south of Johannesburg, Mayor, Herman Mashaba says he had a meeting with the Provincial SAPS and JMPD to find a peaceful resolution to the on-going protests in Eldorado Park and surrounding areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director of Communications at Office of the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Tony Taverna-Turisan...
The fifth lion that escaped from the Kruger National Park is still on the loose 2 days after a pride of 5 lions was first spotted under a bridge on the N4 highway. Four of the escaped lions were captured on Tuesday in the Mananga area and have since been returned to the park. Residents are being urged to remain vigilant. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting head of communications at SANParks, William Mabasa....
Johannesburg Housing MMC Mzobanzi Ntuli has again failed to meet with the protesting residents of Kliptown in Soweto over their housing concerns. Ntuli was expected to address the community at Kliptown Square yesterday afternoon after Tuesday's planned meeting didn't materialise. Kliptown residents have been protesting since last Tuesday. More than 10 shops have been vandalised and looted in the area. Business operators say children as young as 14 are leading the looting. Similar protests have been taking place in neighbouring townships such as Eldorado Park, Freedom Park, Ennerdale and Finetown in the south of Johannesburg. Wisani Makhubele has more
Violent protests over the death of a 16 year old boy at the hands of two white males, have heightened in the farming town of Coligny have led to a series of meetings by both government and some political parties. While the provincial government is preaching tolerance and reconciliation - the EFF has encouraged them otherwise as few racial dimensions emerge in the troubled North West town. Lucas Mothibedi has more...
Northern Cape premier Sylvia Lucas has reshuffled her cabinet, ahead of the ANC's provincial conference expected to kick-start in Colesburg on Thursday. Lucas is contesting the position of chairperson with the party's provincial secretary, Zamani Saul. The four-day conference was postponed in December last year due to disputes. Lucas indicated that the reshuffling follows a consultative process which started last week. Reginald Witbooi reports
Hundreds of people protested the firing of the FBI Director outside the White House in Washington as the President's spokesperson revealed that he'd been considering firing James Comey since he was elected to office in January. The timing of the move has split Republican and Democrats while the Vice President dismissed suggestions that President Trump's decision had anything to do with the FBI's probe into possible connections between Russia and the Trump campaign during last year's election. A chorus of Democrats has called for a special prosecutor to be appointed to investigate the Russian allegations. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Police say more than 50 people have been arrested in Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg, since protests erupted there earlier this week. They're facing charges of public violence, possession of suspected stolen property, malicious damage to property and theft. Some of the suspects will appear in court today. The protests over poor service delivery have since spread to nearby areas including Ennerdale.
The situation at Coligny in the North West remains tense with police still maintaining a high presence this morning. Clashes between police and residents continued into the late night. Residents want the bail of two local men accused of killing a 16 year old boy to be revoked. Learners in the Tlhabologang township remain trapped due to the ongoing violence while a few businessess started operating this morning. with police still maintaining a high presence this morning. Clashes between police and residents continued into the late night. Residents want the bail of two local men accused of killing a 16 year old boy to be revoked. Learners in the Tlhabologang township remain trapped due to the ongoing violence while a few businessess started operating this morning.
Johannesburg's MMC for Housing, Mzobanzi Ntuli, says the Eldorado Park protest leaders who were to meet him today, are facing arrest for unrelated crimes. Ntuli was supposed to meet the aggrieved community leaders over their housing concerns. Residents of Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg, engaged in day-long running battles with police, who constantly fired rubber bullets. Several shops were vandalized and looted. Seven people were arrested for public violence.
The 2012 Lonmin Mine tragedy in Marikana where thirty-four miners were shot and killed by the police during an AMCU led wage increase strike has been dogging Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa. Since his weekend public regret of his comments prior to the shootings, survivors of the massacre have rejected Ramaphosa's apology. Attorney Andries Nkome, who represents the arrested and wounded miners, has described the apology, as "contemptuous and opportunistic". Ramaphosa says he will go to Marikana and address the workers as part of counselling.
The R503 and N4 road linking Lichtenburg and Coligny and the N14 linking Coligny and Ventersdorp in the North West, have been opened for traffic. They were closed last night following violent protests. This, after residents in the area went on rampage yesterday after a local court granted bail to two men who allegedly killed a sixteen year old Matlhomola Mosweu three weeks ago. Mosweu was killed for allegedly stealing a sunflower at a farm.
The Gauteng Health Department has revealed that at least five more mental health patients have since died, from the time when the Health Ombud report was released in February. Gauteng Health MEC, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa, briefed the media in Johannesburg on progress made in the implementation of the health ombudsman's report into the tragedy. She said 91 percent of patients have so far been relocated to suitably licensed facilities, while the remainder are not relocated due to what the department calls disputes or misunderstandings. To tell us more we are joined on the line by Dr Ramokgopa
A service delivery protest in Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg has turned violent leading to road closures around the area. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Police spokesperson Lungelo Dlamini
The office of the President says President Jacob Zuma has accepted His Majesty Vha Venda King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana 's proposal that the Vhembe District Municipality should provide services to the people of Vuwani while a solution on the demarcation issue is being sought. This was announced after Zuma met with the King and other stakeholders in Vuwani. Violence then broke out Nandoni sports ground after Zuma abandoned his address to thousands of residents who waited for him for the entire day. Three SABC News vehicles were stoned and windows smashed by an angry crowd who we demanding for Zuma to come and address them. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase reports.
Pro-Makhado task team in #Vuwani have appealed to residents to allow things to return to normality. Sakina speaks to Pro Makhado spokesperson, Ntsobo Sambo. She also speaks to Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Des van Rooyen about Vuwani situation.
Deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa has apologised for the way in which the Marikana shootings unfolded, but has denied any involvement in the killing of 34 Lonmin miners almost five years ago. Addressing students at Rhodes University in Grahamstown, Ramaphosa said his role at Lonmin was to prevent further killings.He later addressed an ANC Cadres' Forum in Joza, also in Grahamstown. Mcebisi Ngqsina reports
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at the Asian Shares trading mostly higher, following the French election outcome and China Trade Surplus widens to $38.05 billion
An Eldorado Park resident tells Sakina Kamwendo that she will NOT be going to work today as residents blockade roads protesting for housing and better services
Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Mlibo Qoboshiyane has condemned the shooting of eleven cattle, allegedly by a commercial farmer in Kruisrivier near Uitenhage. He has described it as an insult. He visited the farm on which the cattle are kept and has met with the family. Nine cattle have died and the farmer is reported to have barred the owners from taking them, as Anda Nqonji reports
Research Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at what France's President elect Emmanuel Macron will mean to the country and relations with the European economy and U.S. unemployment and non-farm payroll came out on Friday showing a 10 year low.
Dr Ivor Sarakinsky, Senior lecturer at the Wits School of Governance says the ruling by the North Gauteng High Court Judge Bashier Vally for President Jacob Zuma to hand over all records explaining the reason why he reshuffled the Cabinet to the DA is a good move and it shows democracy in action. Dr Sarakinsky says unlike other developed democracies, South African constitutions is NOT explicit on the powers of the executive, and this is why we are seeing matters going to court.
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks the Asian Markets end the week lower, Brent Crude drops below the 45 dollar mark, US job numbers expected today, these might have an implication on rates which up in June and World Economic Forum on Africa concludes, was this another talks hop?
Judge Mabel Jansen has resigned with immediate effect. Jansen was placed on special leave last year following racist comments in which she expressed her belief that rape was part of black people's culture. The Judicial Conduct Committee was busy investigating complaints of racism against the Judge and she was apparently facing impeachment if found guilty. Sakiana Kamwendo speaks to the spokesperson for the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), CP Fourie
President Jacob Zuma has five working days to furnish the DA with documents containing the records and reasons for his decision to fire former finance minister Pravin Gordhan. Gordhan and his deputy Mcebisi Jonas were fired together with four other ministers in March this year. The decision lead to South Africa's sovereign credit rating being downgraded to junk status by ratings agency Standard and Poor's. Phanuel Shuma compiled this report.
The Executive Director of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate,IPID, Robert McBride, has accused Acting National Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane of waging a war against the directorate. According to McBride, Phahlane has spent thousands of rand in an attempt to have a search warrant at his house declared invalid. He says IPID has a tiny litigation budget while SAPS has huge resources in comparison. McBride appeared before Parliament's Police committee to discuss its budget. Zalene Merrington has more
Outgoing Eastern Cape DA leader, Athol Trollip's decision to bow out in his position has created a rigorous battle between a candidate perceived as his favourite and the sitting provincial chairperson. The hotly contested congress beginning today (5th May) in East London is between former COPE Youth President and DA Member of Parliament, Nqaba Banga and DA chairperson and caucus leader, Veliswa Mvenya. Prominent DA leaders in the province are seen to be rallying behind Bhanga. Mkhokheli Bandla filed this report
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe has dismissed suggestions that Zimbabwe was a failed or fragile state. He says his country is the highest developed country in Africa, after South Africa. He was speaking this morning (thursday 4 May) in Durban at a panel discussion on the issue of fragile states at the World Economic Forum on Africa. The discussion also unpacked ways in which African states can work together to achieve stable economic growth. Nonjabulo Mntungwa reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA looks at the drop in oil price and the 50th anniversary of the Kruger Rand
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets which are mostly lower, led by losses in Commodity Shares and the US Federal Reserve as expected left interest rates unchanged.
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA looks at the World Economic Forum on Africa kicked off in Durban yesterday, and one of the appearances that drew the most attention - certainly from the South African perspective - was that of Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba, the Federal Reserve concluded their latest 2-day Federal Open Market Committee meeting and commodity prices, especially precious metals were particularly weak yesterday on the JSE.
The Director of Communications at the Office of the Executive Mayor in the City of Johannesburg, Tony Taverna-Turisan says the culture of corruption within the City of Johannesburg was deeply rooted.
The bail application of two North West men, accused of killing a sixteen year old boy in Coligny ,has been postponed to Friday for judgment. This is to allow both the state and the defence team to wrap-up their arguments, which were entirely centred on the evidence by the top police investigator in the case. Brigadier Clifford Kgalane testified today that the only state witness was captured by the accused and put in the back of the bakkie with the boy's body. The defence rejected this, while the state now wants to call another witness. Magistrate Makgaola Foso was reluctant to postpone the case
Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba says over 300 cases of fraud and corruption valued at over 10-billion rand are under investigation. Over 90 employees have been suspended with three senior officials having resigned. Mashaba was presenting his inaugural State of the City Address. He's anounced plans to address the billing system, improve road infrastructure, build more houses and fight crime. Tshepo Phagane and Ditaba Tsotetsi compiled this report
What is to be done with the quality of leadership on the continent - this was the basic question facing panelists at a discussion at the World Economic Forum for Africa taking place in Durban. While panelists agreed on the need for greater investments in agriculture, education and entrepreneurship to lift the wellbeing of the continent's people - there was sceptism as to whether those charged with the task are up to it. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe
Delegates at the World Press Freedom Day commemoration in Johannesburg have raised concerns about the future of the SABC. Speakers expressed concern about the reputation and the financial status of the public broadcaster. Thabile Mbhele reports
Lace Mine in Kroonstad in the Free State has issued letters of retrenchment to three-hundred mine workers. The move follows the closure of the mine last year after the management told employees that the mine was flooded and couldn't continue with operations. Mine workers have not been paid their salaries since October. Thabiso Radebe reports
Parliament has condemned the disruption of a joint committee meeting allegedly by the leader of Black First Land First, Andile Mngxitama. The BLF was in Parliament to make a presentation on the transformation of the financial sector. Mngxitama is alleged to have verbally attacked ANC MP Joan Fubbs, calling her a fascist, and threatened to assault Finance Committee chairperson, Yunis Carrim. Lulama Matya reports
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian Markets as they weaken with Australia's ASX200 leading the declines, Apple releases 2nd quarter results that missed market expectations and the FED expected to leave rates unchanged later today.
Market analyst, Nerina Visser looks at South African markets as a number of economic data releases came out yesterday, one of which was vehicle sales for April. What does it tell us about the state of the economy, the importance of the manufacturing sector in transforming the economic base of the country and the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI).
Minister of Finance, Malusi Gigaba, says black people - especially those in townships and rural areas - should be given an opportunity to own the economy in order for the country to achieve inclusive economic growth. Gigaba was speaking ahead of the World Economic Forum Africa conference which started in Durban on Wednesday morning. Gigaba joined international media on a tour around Durban's townships on Tuesday and says the conference should not just focus on big business but include informal traders. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of WEF Africa, Elsie Kanza....
The strategic fuel stocks transaction, which we were made to believe was nothing but a rotation of fuel stock by the Department of Energy, was actually a sale of stock. This unsettling revelation was made by the new Energy Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, in Parliament yesterday. The Auditor-General has previously found that the sale of these stockpiles was illegal and no permission was obtained from Treasury. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister of Energy, Mmamoloko Kubayi
Today marks World Press Freedom day and the United Nations has called on global leaders to defend media freedom. 3 May was proclaimed World Press Freedom Day by the UN General Assembly in 1993 following a Recommendation adopted at the twenty-sixth session of UNESCO's General Conference in 1991. The day seeks to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom as well as to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the chairperson of African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, Advocate Pansy Tlakula.
The National Prosecuting Authority has changed the charge against Elvis Ramosebudi from conspiracy to commit murder to incitement to commit murder. Ramosebud was arrested by the Hawks for allegedly plotting to kill 19 people, including cabinet officials. His case was yesterday postponed to Friday for further investigation. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports
More criminal charges are expected to be added in the case involving two men accused of killing a 16-year-old boy in Coligny in the North West. Pieter Doorenwaard and Phillip Schutte, were applying for bail yesterday (tuesday 2 May),and the matter was postponed to today. Despite the murder charges they are facing, fresh charges including kidnapping, defeating the ends of justice and intimidation of state witnesses are expected to be added this morning. The leading investigating officer in the case, spent the whole day, explaining chilling details on how the two accused allegedly killed the deceased. Lucas Mothibedi reports
The World Economic Forum Africa is kicking off under the theme, inclusive growth in Durban. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Head of WEF Africa, Elsie Kanza
Police Minister, Fikile Mbalula, has warned that police will be harsh on criminals. He was speaking while visitIng Nyanga Junction on the Cape Flats where a security guard and robbers were shot during a hostage situation on the May Day public holiday. The security guard has since died in hospital. Mbalula has praised police and security staff for their efforts to diffuse the situation. Chris Mabuya reports
ANC Provincial Chairperson Ace Magashule has labelled chaotic scenes in the Free State, where President Jacob Zuma was heckled and booed as embarrassing. Zuma was expected to deliver a keynote address at Cosatu's National May Day celebrations in Bloemfontein. This forced Cosatu to cancel the rest of the programme. Mbali Sibanyoni reports
Cosatu general secretary Bheki Ntshalintshali used the federation's May Day celebrations in Gauteng to boost Cyril Ramaphosa's campaign to lead the ANC. He called on the federation's membership to start lobbying for deputy president Ramaphosa to lead the ANC and the country. He was speaking during the federation's march outside the JSE as part of May Day commemoration. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
A bail application of two men accused of killing a sixteen year old Coligny boy, will be heard this morning at the Coligny Magistrate Court in the North West. The matter was initially set of the 9th of this month, after the presiding magistrate in the case recused himself, citing fears for his safety. Yesterday {01/05}, the North West High Court granted an urgent application to bring forward to today the previous date. This is after the accused filed an urgent application, saying their continued incarceration without bail, is unconstitutional. Our reporters Lucas Mothibedi and Zebilon Maine filed the following report
Police have shot and injure a suspect hiding inside the Nyanga Junction Shopping Centre near Manenberg last night following the release of the last 10 hostages. Police say they went back to search the centre after the hostages were freed yesterday. They also found two weapons used in a robbery at the Shoprite store. A security guard was fighting for his life last night after he was shot during a hostage drama. Ten hostages were freed after a nearly 12 hour ordeal when an attempted armed robbery quickly escalated into a hostage situation. Police experts, including Task Force members and hostage negotiators, were on the scene. Chris Mabuya reports
The SACP says if it were in COSATU's position, it is not likely to have invited President Jacob Zuma to address the main May Day rally. Some COSATU affiliates say the labour federation's decision to invited Zuma to address the rally in Bloemfontein is not consistent with its call for him to step down. Several other rallies will take place across the country. Trade union NUMSA and the newly-formed labour federation SAFTU will observe Workers' Day in Durban. COSATU's tradition as a tripartite alliance member is that the ANC president should speak at the May Day event. We caught up with SACP spokesperson Alex Mashilo for more details...
COSATU is adamant that its alliance partner the ANC has deployed its president Jacob Zuma to address the main May Day rally in Bloemfontein. The Trade Federation President Sdumo Dlamini says ❝Looking at it from where you'd be standing, you'd day no this thing doesn't make sense. It's the same person on all the positions but the point here is - the ANC had deployed its president. We don't want this May Day to be overshadowed by that issue. It has got to be known what the workers are saying in South Africa❞. Numsa's Irvin Jim says Cosatu is confused
SAfm listener Felix in Nelspruit, Mpamalanga explains what economic and political freedom- says political freedom is a vehicle to economic freedom, which is now being stripped
Keeping the tri-partied alliance whole is of utmost importance says the ANC Treasurer General Dr Zweli Mkhize. He delivered a Chris Hani Memorial lecture in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. He also said that the concern of South Africans about the development in our polity, economy and the debate on state capture cannot be denied. Our Reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi was there and filed this report
Lungile Malinga, Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management looks at the Asian Markets Markets, Producer Price Inflation figures came out on Wednesday and Business Leadership SA says there is more pain to be felt in SA foreign direct investment after the credit rating downgrade in SA.
Several students who wrote the Multiple Examination Opportunity introduced by the department of Basic Education last year January have been left in the lerch. One of them, an SAfm listener, Lee Fearick, who sent us a message on Twitter says he wrote his last paper in July of 2016 at Sir John Adamson High School in the South of Johannesburg and is still to receive his matric results. 21 year old Fearick split his matric subjects so he could write them over two years, taking advantage of the Second Chance Matric Programme that is supposed to give learners who failed matric an opportunity to re-write and hopefully obtain their matric. Gauteng was the first province to run the programme. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SAfm listener Lee Fearick and Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Oupa Bodibe
The Communication Worker's Union (CWU) has added its voice in calling for President Jacob Zuma not to be allowed as a guest speaker at the May Day celebration on the 1st of May. This follows a request to COSATU by the National Education Health and Workers Union (NEHAWU) that President Zuma be replaced by an eligible leader of the ANC as the main speaker at the rally. Is this another way of showing cracks within the Alliance and its partners? Sakina Kamwendo chats to Mining and Labour Analyst from Creative Voodoo Consulting, Mamokgethi Molopyane.
23 years later, Dr Hleze Kunju's doctoral thesis, written in his home language of IsiXhosa, has been described as ground-breaking and a glimmer of hope for a decolonised and transformed education system in the country. He speaks Dr Kunju for more details on his journey of the development of indigenous languages for academic writing
Struggle Stalwart Omar Badsha says South Africa has a government that is NOT united which is making things very difficult. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo on #AMLive said Mr Omar says we are in the middle of a crisis that needs to be well handled.
A number of opposition parties and civil society organisations will mark Freedom Day at a rally to be held in Pretoria today. The 'Reclaim our Freedom Rally' will be held under the banner of the Freedom Movement. Leaders of the UDM, the DA, OUTA, FEDUSA and the Religious Council will address the rally. The late president Nelson Mandela's personal assistant Zelda Le Grange and political activist Prince Mashele are also expected to address the rally. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Prince Mashele
The Hawks have arrested a 23-year old man in Midrand for allegedly plotting to assassinate officials perceived as state capture beneficiaries. The Hawks says officers intercepted communication material of possible assassinations of several members of Cabinet, state-owned entities and other prominent South Africans. Hawks spokesperson, Hangwane Mulaudzi says the African man is a founding member of the Anti-State Capture Death Squad Alliance.
Police presence is expected to continue today to monitor the situation at three townships of Itsoseng, Blaaideville and Coligny in North West. Residents are demanding for the provision of basic services such as water and housing from the cash strapped Ditsobotla Local Municpality. The council has been struggling to pay its staff wages as well as service providers such as Eskom. Sakina Kamwendo chats Provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone
Amnesty International is calling for the immediate release of Zambia's main opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema, ahead of today's bail hearing. Hichilema and his colleagues were detained three weeks ago after they allegedly failed to give way to a Presidential convoy. Amnesty International says the charges are just designed to intimidate him from doing his work. Sakina Kamwendo chats to Amnesty International's Campaigner for Southern Africa, Wongai Chikwanda
Nadir Tokhan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers talks about the risk Naspers poses to South African investors and Donald Trump's plan to cut corporate taxes
Chaotic scenes have been reported at the O.R. Tambo International Airport where 350 South African Airways staff, affiliated to the South African Cabin Crew Association are picketing. The cabin crew members are demanding an increase to their R161.00 meal allowances during international trips. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Feroze Kader who is South African Cabin Crew Association Chief negotiator
Lungile Malinga, Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management looks at Asian stocks hover near two-year highs on U.S. optimism, euro steady and Reserve Bank's leading indicator up, does this mean we are going to see economic growth.
Fraud related to banking cards has seen an increase of 8 percent in the past year. Card fraud statistics released by the South African Banking Risk Information Centre, SABRIC, show that the amount recorded for fraudulent activities reached 717 million rand in 2016. The organisation says measures put in place by its members, positions the banking industry to tackle card fraud, but has conceded that the ever evolving sophistication of tactics used by criminals is of great concern. Morafe Tabane reports
Lungile Malinga, Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management looks at how are Asian markets looking today and what to expect from the South African markets today
The ANC and the African Independent Congress have adopted a memorandum of understanding that will regulate the coalition partnership between the two organizations. The two organizations have agreed on political cooperation in the national interest with specific reference to Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Rustenburg Local Municipality, Umkhanyakude District Municipality and other municipalities where both parties have representation. The two parties met yesterday in pursuance of commitments made when they entered into a coalition agreement following the 2016 Local Government Elections in August 2016. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to African Independent Congress spokesperson, Aubrey Mhlongo
Cape Town High Court Judge, Siraj Desai, will hold an in loco inspection at the De Zalze Estate home of murder accused, Henri van Breda in Stellenbosch this morning. The 22-year-old Van Breda is accused of killing his parents and older brother at their home in January 2015. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges against him.
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, says the judiciary is always careful not to encroach on other arms of state. Mogoeng reacted to remarks made by some politicians that the country runs the risk of being a "juristocracy". He spoke to the media on the sidelines of the fourth Conference of Constitutional Jurisdictions of Africa which is taking place in Cape Town. Justice Mogoeng also addressed perceptions that the Executive was not respecting court orders.
Forced child marriages still exist in South Africa. Young girls, especially in rural areas such as the Eastern Cape, are vulnerable to abduction, rape, violent abuse and premature marriage under the guise of the so-called Ukuthwala Custom. The SABC recently visited some rural villages of the Eastern Cape where producer Nomawethu Solwande did a series of interviews with affected children and their families.
Residents of Lenasia South have blockaded roads with burning treys and rocks in a protest against illegal land invassion. Sakina spoke to Johannesburg Metro police Wayne Minaar
Comfort Ngidi who represents Former Hawks boss Berning Ntlemeza has confirmed that his client has returned the Hawks car but still has the cellphone. Mr Ngidi says returning the Hawks cellphone will compromise the country's security.
The interim SABC Board wants Hlaudi Motsoeneng disciplined for bringing the public broadcaster into disrepute during a press conference last week. The interim Board and SABC Management have briefed the Communications Portfolio Committee. The Interim board has also told parliamentarians that it plans to scrap the controversial 90 percent local content policy for radio and 80 percent policy for television. Hlaudi Motsoeneng's legal representative, Advocate Zola Majavu spoke to
Nadir Tokhan, Investmen Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers looks at the impact of the downgrade on pioneer foods and the U.S. Earnings season thus far
It's official Zwelinzima Vavi is the secretary-general of the newly-launched labour federation SAFTU. SAFTU's three-day inaugural congress wraped on Sunday in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni. Twenty-four trade unions, including NUMSA and FAWU, are affiliates of the new labour federation. About two-thousand delegates attended the event. SAFTU intends to rival COSATU and is the brainchild of Vavi, who was expelled from COSATU in 2015. Ditaba Tsotetsi attended the conference and filed this report...
About 1000 Illegal miners have settled into the Kenilworth Cemetery in Kimberley, in the Northern Cape. The cemetery houses some of the oldest graves in the city. The illegal miners say they feel they have done nothing wrong but residents and local businesses have raised concerns about the safety of visitors to the area. Neo Bodumela reports…
Nadir Tokhan, Investment Analyst at 27-Four Investment Managers looks at the the results from the French primary election and what it means for markets, opportunity in South African equities and the Rand proves to be more resilient compared to nenegate.
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has suffered yet another loss of a prominent member in the province. The party's deputy secretary in the Harry Gwala region Khaya Thobela was shot at his home at eMfundweni in Umzimkhulu in southern KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday. He died in hospital on Sunday morning. Provincial ANC leadership visited his family to convey their condolences. Fanele Mhlongo reports...
ANC Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the problem is money. "Money has come in between us, and today there is patronage, there is money being passed around, in bags, paper bags and brown envelopes."
Lungile Malinga, Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management looks at the Asian-market rally after French election results and the rand keeps on strengthening
Speaking at the Chris Hani memorial Lecture, Cyril Ramaphosa said the ANC used to be seen as the leader of society. 'We provided leadership, we were the go-to organisation. If we are to be honest with ourselves, our movement, the ANC, has lost that position. We are no longer the leaders of society. Society is walking away from us,"
ANC and country Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a judicial commission of inquiry into allegations of state capture. Ramaphosa was speaking at the #ChrisHanimemorialLecture in Uitenhage in the Eastern Cape.
Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC is in a deep crisis. While some may want to contest the use of words such as ‘crisis’ and ‘rot’ to describe the current situation, the undeniable reality is that the democratic movement is undergoing a period of greater turbulence and uncertainty that at any time since 1994.
Former Hawks Boss Berning Ntlemeza is definitely reporting for duty this morning. This is according to his attorney, Comfort Ngidi. Ngidi says his client has the legal right to remain in his position pending an appeal to set aside his appointment as unlawful. He joins us on the line to tell us more
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at tje Asian Shares Stock markets are higher today, catching an updraft from overnight gains in the U.S, Oil Price set to posts the biggest weekly loss since March and Markets will be closely watching the French Elections
Artist Ayanda Mabulu has defended his painting which depicts President Jacob Zuma performing a sexual act on Madiba saying he's merely expressing his views on the current situation in the country. The painting is interpreted as raping the former president Nelson Mandela's legacy. he spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
A South African doctor has been included on Time magazine's list of 100 most influential people in the world. Internationally-acclaimed HIV/AIDS research Professor Glenda Gray is being credited for her role in the search for an HIV and AIDS vaccine. If successful, the vaccine could be the first of its kind to be licensed globally. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo Professor Gray described the recognition as surprising
The South African Federation of Trade Unions will be launched in Boksburg on the east Rand today( 21 April). The launch is spearheaded by former COSATU General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi who was expelled from the labour federation in 2015. Twenty-One ( 21) trade unions expected to join in with several affiliates from Cosatu such as metal-workers union NUMSA, and food workers union forming part of the new workers federation. Vavi says the aim of the federation is to win back the trust of workers, emphasising that it would not be aligned to any political party. Mbongeni Muthwa reports
Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO, Sello Hatang, says society has entered what he describes as an era of vulgarity. This after artist, Ayanda Mabulu, painted an image that depicts President Jacob Zuma performing a sexual act on Madiba. It's being interpreted as raping the former president's legacy. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo Hatang says although he respects Mabulu's right to freedom of expression, his painting is in bad taste
Chief Economist at ETM Analytics Goerge Glynos looks at French elections this weekend, is there any relevance for SA, Eskom has applied to the Treasury for a series of waivers from procurement regulations and the IMF and World Bank Spring meetings underway in Washington.
The Hawks have arrested a controversial Durban-based Nigerian Pastor,who is wanted in connection with alleged sexual assault, at Port Elizabeth Airport. He is accused of taking girls to his uMhlanga House in KwaZulu-Natal where he allegedly sexually molested them. The Hawks initially planned his arrest at his Bloemfontein Congregation last Friday, but he did not arrive to deliver his sermon. He was then ordered to hand himself over in Port Elizabeth, as Olwethu Matsipane reports
Trade union BEMAWU president, Hannes Du Buisson says if former SABC COO Hlaudi Motshoeneng did NOT get permission to hold the press briefing in which he lambasted newly appointed board and parliament's portfolio committee on commission, then it is a serious offence.
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Shares trading mostly higher, shrugging off the overnight losses on Wall Street and South Africa's consumer inflation eased to 6.1% year on year in March.
Former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng has distanced himself from the current financial woes at the public broadcaster. Motsoeneng says when he left the SABC, there was money, and therefore he cannot speak on the current financial state of the organisation. Motsoeneng addressed a press briefing at the Garden Court Hotel in Milpark Johannesburg. It was organised by his supporters under the banner of , "friends Of Hlaudi". Pearl Magubane reports.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has come out strongly in support of governments Radical Economic Transformation. The Black Business Council has also rallied behind government. BBC president Danisa Baloyi says apartheid economic systems should change radically and immediately to empower the majority black people. Both the deputy president and Baloyi were speaking at the Black Business Council's Economy recovery dinner last night. Cyril Ramaphosa warned those opposing the term radical economic transformation to wake up and smell the coffee. Amina Accram reports
George Glynos, Chief Economist at ETM analytics looks at Inflation which fell below market expectations, Finance Minister Gigaba is on a roadshow to boost SA's image and the effects of ratings downgrades already being felt by some SOEs, Sanral postpones bond auction out of fear it will struggle to attract investors
The late 18 year-old Ontlametse Phalatse, who lived with Progeria disease, lived an inspirational life. This is according to multitudes of people who turned out for her memorial service in Hebron, North West. Phalatse died last week at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria after complaining about breathing complications. She was due to attend president Jacob Zuma's birthday celebrations. Many people from all walks of life attended the memorial service at Mmamotshe Modutwane high school in Hebron. Maluti Obuseng report
The second term of schooling has been begun with controversial teacher shortages at some schools in the Eastern Cape. This comes as parents and SGB members at Kuyasa High School in Dimbaza have threatened to embark on a rolling mass action if the government fails to employ more teachers. The Education Department has also been accused of failing to issue placement letters on time to at least one-thousand temporary teachers, as Lubabalo Dada reports
Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba begins a multi-city roadshow of the United States in Washington tomorrow where he will participate in the annual Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. This will be his first international trip after the axing of his predecessor Pravin Gordhan that subsequently led to the country's credit rating being downgraded twice to sub investment grade or junk status. Gigaba will also travel to New York and Boston where he plans to reassure investors of the country's commitment to fiscal discipline and work to prevent South Africa from suffering a third downgrade from Moodys. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
The Barolong boora Tlou tribal authority in Kraaipan in the North West has condemned the illegal slaughter of donkeys in the area. This comes after more than 30 donkey were recently killed and skinned at one of the maize and sunflower plantations near Kraaipan. Tribal authority spokesperson, Ntoko Mokoto, says in Madibogo village they have discovered about a hundred donkey carcases which had been skinned . Residents are reporting escalating cases of donkey theft in the area. Mpho Lepedi has more
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments
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Asian Shares in the RED following a weak Wall Street close and a generally Risk Off Trade sentiment towards global equity markets.
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Iron Ore prices continues their sharp decline, putting pressure on the major Iron Ore producers.
The newly appointed Finance Minister's adviser Chris Malikane has urged staff at National Treasury be more open to different views. Malekane says he's joining Treasury along with two other advisors who all share a common vision in radical social economic transformation. He's hoping that his advises to the Minister will eventually find space among staff at Treasury. Tshepo Mongoai reports.
Two people have been burnt to death and one seriously injured after their vehicle hit barricades placed on the roads by Vuwani residents in Limpopo. Protesting residents resumed their shut down yesterday over an unresolved municipal dispute. Six other vehicles were damaged by protesters yesterday. Our reporter Witness Tivha joins us on the line.
George Glynos Chief economist at ETM Analytics, looks at the UK calling for snap elections as Prime Minister May looking for greater certainty in her mandate for Brexit, the First round of French elections on Sunday will start to offer greater clarity, the IMF global growth forecasts have been revised upwards and SA rand continues to extend gains, despite all the bad news and political noise which is ongoing
Scores of vehicles were stoned and damaged in a shut down of services protests in Vuwani in Limpopo yesterday. Thousands of learners were also prevented from going to school Vuwani and residents from surrounding areas are refusing to be incorporated into a new municipality with Malamulele. Shibu Mamokgere filed this report.
Herd of eight elephants that broke out from the Dinokeng Game Reserve near Pretoria between Saturday night and Sunday morning have returned. The game reserve has assembled a team of experts helping to get the elephants back into the park. People who saw the animals took to social media yesterday warning road users to drive carefully, especially near Moloto Road. Sakuna Kamwendo chats to Dinokeng Game Reserve chairperson, Richard Lydall.
Cosatu Spokesperson Sizwe Pamla says now that Nkosazana Dlamini is a civilian, she does NOT need VIP protection. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo on AMLive Pamla says they are cynical about how government manages its affairs.
Criminal charges are to be instituted against the driver of the bus that was involved in a crash in which 15 passengers were killed at Kranskop in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands. Charges include culpable homicide and driving with an expired driver's licence. KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC Mxolisi Kaunda elaborates. Cyril Mnguni reports
More than 4 thousand motorists arrested for speeding as South Africans make their way home from Easter Holidays. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Road Transport Management Corporation spokesperson, Simon Zwane
Police minister Fikile Mbalula visits the Soshanguve police station north of Prertoria after the killing of a police officer in shoot out with suspects in the area on Friday night. Phanuel Shuma reports
Metrorail says the damage to eleven of it's train carriages could run into tens of millions of rand. Eight carriages were completely destroyed and three others partially damaged in a fire at the Kraaifontein station yesterday morning. The regional manager of Metrorail Western Cape, Richard Walker, says they are now awaiting an assessment from the loss adjusters, in order to determine an exact amount. The rail service has lost in excess of 70 carriages over the past two years due to vandalism. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Richard Walker
Over 600 people have been displaced this Easter weekend after at least seven fires broke out in several informal settlements around Cape Town. Two people have died in separate incidences, and over 200 structures were gutted. Chris Mabuya reports
President Jacob Zuma attributes the ongoing calls for him to step down to his calls for radical economic transformation and accelerated land redistribution to benefit the poor black majority of South Africa. The President was speaking during a service at the Twelve Apostle Church in Christ in Umgababa south of Durban. The church which has about six million followers countrywide, is known to be Zuma's strong support base. Meanwhile, Zuma criticised some church leaders saying instead of praying for politicians they cast stones and curse those in political authority. Vusi Makhosini reports
Thousands of ZCC and St Engenas church members have started arriving at the church headquarters in Moria outside Polokwane in Limpopo. The N1 from Pretoria to Limpopo is carrying heavy traffic volume as more motorists are arriving in the province for the Easter weekend. For the latest we now speak to our reporter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Witness Tiva
The United States has dropped the largest non-nuclear device it has ever unleashed in combat, on a network of caves and tunnels used by Islamic State in eastern Afghanistan. The US defence force is currently evaluating the damage caused when the MC-130 aircraft released the ten-thousand kilogram device against a series of caves and bunkers, alleged to be used by Islamic State. US president Donald trump says the mission was successful.
Minister of Transport, Mr Joe Maswanganyi is calling for the immediate recommencement of bus operations. In a statement, the Minister says the immediate resumption of bus operations should take place while labour and employers are trying to find a permanent solution to the impasse. For more, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for the Department of Transport, Ishmael Mnisi.
We find out now how the traffic situation has been on our roads overnight as authorities expected high volumes of traffic. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for the Road Transport Management Corporation, Simon Zwane.....
A number of opposition parties seeking to remove President Jacob Zuma from office have vowed to continue with the campaign until their mission is accomplished. The DA, EFF, COPE, ACDP, APC, UDM and IFP led thousands of supporters as well as civil society members to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, calling for President Zuma to step down. The parties blame President Zuma's recent cabinet reshuffle for the country's worsening economic situation compounded by the credit rating downgrade by two global ratings agencies. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
At least 4 out of 10 workers use public transport to reach their workplace. But with the ongoing bus strike, many have been affected and couldn't reach their destinations on time. The workers, mostly bus drivers, have down tools since midnight. They are demanding a 15% wage increase while the employer is offering 9-percent. We spoke to South African Bus Employers Association (SABEA) and the Commuter Bus Employers Organisation (COBEO), Meko Magida...
The Minister of Finance, Malusi Gigaba, says there will be no deviation from the Public Finance Management Act at a time when nuclear energy is procured. There have been concerns about the country's ability to afford the nuclear build programme. Gigaba was addressing investors as well as stakeholders yesterday morning (Wednesday 12 April) at the Development Bank of Southern Africa in Midrand. He assured them that government will continue working towards ensuring that inclusive growth is achieved. He also reiterated that he will continue on the path of fiscal consolidation as was the case when Pravin Gordhan was leading the treasury. MorafeTabane reports
Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks Asian Markets continues to fall, the Nikkei225 leading the declines is down by over 1% and Donald Trump's statements about "the Dollar being too strong" a boost for the RAND, and other emerging markets Currencies.
The Portfolio Committee on Police is calling for an immediate process towards the appointment of the new head of the Hawks. This follows a decision by the court to dismiss the Hawk's Boss General Berning Ntlemeza's leave to appeal. Few weeks ago, the North Gauteng High Court declared Ntlemeza's appointment as the Hawks's Boss unlawful. The Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula has also decided to withdraw the appeal on the Ntlemeza matter. We spoke to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Francois Beukman....
President Jacob Zuma says he is not stressed or bothered by those calling him names and demanding for him to step down from office. Zuma was speaking at his birthday celebrations yesterday in Kliptown in Soweto. The President celebrated his birthday while opposition leaders lead a protest to the Union Buildings calling on him to vacate his seat. Mbali Sibanyoni reports
Markets Analyst Fundiswa Nkuta looks at retail sales and the afternoon February data came out and possible fuel increases for South Africans
All three political parties that have asked for a motion of no confidence to be held against President Jacob Zuma, have now asked the Speaker of the National Assembly to postpone it. The DA, EFF and UDM requested that a motion of no confidence be debated - even if it means calling back MPs that are currently on recess. The Speaker agreed that a special sitting would be held next Tuesday. Meanwhile the UDM has also approached the Constitutional court for direct access - to in the end compel the National Assembly to allow a secret ballot during the motion of no confidence. Sakina Kamwenso speaks to Associate Professor of Public Law at the University of Cape Town, Richard Calland
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments Geo-Political risks continues to impact negatively on markets. Markets in Asia are in the Red following a weaker close on Wall Street and oil climbs after reports that Saudi Arabia wants output cuts extended
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC reporter Mlamli Manele who is in Mitchell's Plain where cues at taxi rank are snaking as residents find alternative mode of transport
Law enforcement agencies say they are fully prepared to deal with any incident during protest marches against President Jacob Zuma in Pretoria today. This comes as large numbers of protestors are expected in the capital to take part in a protest march to the Union Buildings. Maluti Obuseng reports
Thousands of commuters om Soweto stranded following bus strike. Sakina speaks to SABC reporter Sashin Naidoo
Research Analyst and Chartered Accountant Fundiswa Nkuta looks at Manufacturing production data which came out yesterday, South Africa government bonds auction which took place yesterday, and expectation for the Rand to go up to R16 levels, have NOT yet come to pass
ANC MP, Dr Makhosi Khoza has defended her comments regarding the state of the ANC. Khoza has received some criticism after writing on her Facebook page that politics of patronage have finally claimed the sanity of the ANC leadership. In sharing her thoughts Khoza described the leadership of the ANC as ill-advised and harmful to the relevance and lifespan of the party. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo Dr Khoza said the ANC maybe loosing its power as the ruling party
President Jacob Zuma says the Anti Zuma marches last year show that there is still racism in the country. Addressing the public at the late struggle hero Chris Hani's memorial service said there were some posters last week which displayed what he thought was buried in 1994. Managing Director at Diversi-T, Teresa Oakley-Smith responding to the president says, racism is always used when it is convenient. She also says white people are privileged in South Africa.
Fundiswa Nkuta, a Research Analyst and Chartered Accountant looks at how Donald Trump's action in Syria is affecting the markets and demand for SA bonds picks up after downgrades
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at Asian Markets which were mostly lower following a flat Wall Street Close and Iron Ore continues to decline
The ANC in the North West, has instructed all its 13 MPs representing the province, to vote against a motion of no-confidence in President Zuma. The debate on the motion is expected on the 18th of April. ANC Provincial Secretary Dakota Legoete explains
World-renowned social activist and Vice President of the South African Council of Churches, SACC), Father Michael Lapsley, has added his voice condemning President Jacob Zuma's controversial cabinet reshuffle and alleged state capture. Chris Mabuya reports
Eskom board says the investigation into the power utility provider, Acting CEO Matshela Koko is underway. This follows reports that Koko was in constant contact with this stepdaughter's business partner days before and after Eskom awarded multimillion rand contracts to their company. Eskom board spokesperson, Khulani Qoma says they have 30 days to finish the investigation
Senior Research Fellow and Political Economist at Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko, believes the country is in recession. This follows the recent downgrades by rating agencies, Standard and Poor's earlier last week, followed by Fitch on Friday. She spoke to AMLive anchor Sakina Kamwendo
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at the Asian Markets, Fitch Downgraded South Africa's Credit Rating to Sub Investment Grade and Donald Trump met with the Chinese Leader Xi Jinping
Families of the twelve people who died in a collision involving a minibus taxi and an SUV on the Wolmaranstad-Ottosdal road outside Wolmaranstad in the North West are expected to identify the bodies today.The twelve died on Saturday night when the two vehicles collided. The minibus caught fire after the incident. Only five people survived as Itumeleng Kgajane reports
State Security Minister and ANC National Working Committee member David Mahlobo has accused ratings agencies of trying force a regime change in South Africa through the junk status downgrade. Mahlobo was addressing ANC structures in Mangaung in the aftermath of anti-Zuma protests which followed the country's downgrade by Standard and Poor's. On Friday, Fitch also downgraded South Africa's foreign and local currency ratings. Palesa Moeti reports
Former Finance Minister, Pravin Gordhan and ANC Treasurer General Zweli Mkhize were snubbed by ANC Youth League supporters during the memorial service of the late ANC stalwart Ahmed Kathrada in Durban. The two had their speeches interrupted as youth league members sang pro Zuma songs. ANC Provincial Chairperson Sihle Zikalala condemned the use of memorial and funeral services to purge each other and talk about party internal problems in public. Meanwhile Gordhan called for unity in the ANC and warned against what he says is the use of to influence certain views. Vusi Makhosini reports
Fundiswa Nkuta, a Research Analyst and Chartered Accountant looks at South Africa downgraded to junk, what are the implications, why did we see the subsequent downgrade of the banks and the US Non farm payroll came out on Friday as we saw the increase in jobs created decrease, from the trend seen in Jan and Feb, what does this mean?
President Jacob Zuma says he's not opposed to any march planned against him today. He was reacting to the Save SA-led march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria later this morning, as well as similar marches in other cities. Marchers from a range of orgnasations will be calling on President Zuma to step down. Presidential spokesperson Bongani Ngqulunga says they have no problem with the marches as long as they are legal
South Africa is due to explain itself at the International Criminal Court, ICC, on why President Omar Al Bashir was not arrested when he was here in 2015 on Friday, 7 April. Bashir was attending the African Union (AU) Summit in Johannesburg. Bashir is wanted by the ICC for crimes against humanity. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Executive Director of the Southern Africa Litigation Centre,SALC, Kaajal Ramjathan-Keogh, whose organisation sought the implementation of an arrest warrant for Al Bashir
Lungile Malinga, Equity Research Analyst at Effectus Capital Management Asian Markets and how are SA markets doing - What to expect today
Opposition parties and civil society organisations have expressed concern at threats of violence and intimidation ahead of today's marches. Thousands of people are expected to take to the streets in the country's major centres of Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban to call for President Jacob Zuma to step down. However in the run-up to the mass action, various incidents - including comments made by new Police Minister Fikile Mbalula, calls by the ANCYL for its members to arm themselves and the harrassment of Save South Africa organisers have put the country on a knife's edge. Political Reporter Mbali Sibanyoni reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA looks at the world's largest economy the United States of America, focus in Europe is on the political front, due to elections in many countries, and Brexit negotiations now officially underway and Presidents Trump and Xi are currently engaged in a two-day meeting
The Ethekwini Municipality says it has no intention to stop marchers who intend taking to the streets of Durban in protest against President Jacob Zuma's leadership on Friday. Various organisations countrywide have proposed marches to force president Zuma to step down. Municipality spokesperson Mthunzi Gumede says those who plan to march for or against the president should follow proper channels in order to do so...
The organisers of Friday's planned national shutdown have renewed their appeal to ANC leaders to join their action at persuading President Jacob Zuma to step down. As much as the protest seems to be gaining support, issues of race are coming into play especially on social media. Could this march see both black and white people unite for a common goal or will race be used to play on people's minds? We spoke to Managing Director at Diversi-T, Teresa Oakley-Smith...
Market analyst, Nerina Visser looks at South African markets as latest round of ratings news, S&P downgraded the major South African banks yesterday, and Moody's have put the same banks, as well as several parastatals and corporates, also on a downgrade review. This has put further pressure on the Banking sector, yesterday there were a number of economic data releases that gives us better insight into the state of the South African economy and a different picture emerged from the Purchasing Managers' Index, which expanded for the 7th straight month..
Former Transport Minister Dipuo Peters has resigned as ANC MP while the Motion of No Confidence in President Jacob Zuma will be debated on the 18th of April. Peters is one of the five Ministers who was fired by President Zuma in a cabinet reshuffle last week. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent has more.....
Newly-appointed Communications Minister Ayandla Dlodlo has hit the ground running having met with various stake-holders including the SABC. This comes at the time when the interim board has been tasked by parliament to fix some of the problems facing the SABC.
The organisers of Friday's planned national shutdown have renewed their appeal to ANC leaders to join their action at persuading President Jacob Zuma to step down. As much as the protest seems to be gaining support, issues of race are coming into play especially on social media. Could this march see both black and white people unite for a common goal or will race be used to paly on people's minds?
Parliament has scheduled a debate on the Motion of No Confidence in President Jacob Zuma for the 18th of April. In a statement Parliament says that the speaker received several letters from parliamentary political parties requesting an urgent scheduling of a motion of no confidence in the President.
Market analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF SA looks at South African markets as last day and a half has been dominated by discussions around credit ratings, so I think today we should focus on other issues, preferably good news stories! Tell us about petrol prices, vehicle sales figures for March was released on Monday, but I guess it got somewhat ignored due to other news. What did we learn about the state of the motor industry and transnet unveiled what has been termed the 'first locomotive to be designed, engineered and manufactured in Africa...
The ANC Stalwarts have joined calls for President Jacob Zuma to step down. This follows a recent downgrade by ratings agency Standard and Poor after Pravin Gordhan was fired as the Minister of Finance. The stalwarts have spoken strongly against the manner in which the decision to remove Gordhan was taken. We spoke to Chairperson of the ANC Stalwards, Dr Mongane Serote and International Union of Psychological Science president and former Robben Island prisoner, Dr Saths Cooper...
Finance Minister, Malusi Gigaba has acknowledged that the recent credit downgrade by ratings agency Standard and Poor's is a setback. Gigaba has urged South Africans to unite in order to reignite the country's economic growth. While addressing members of the media in Pretoria on Tuesday says he has not been able to meet with former minister Pravin Gordhan. Our reporter, Amina Accram reports
President Jacob Zuma's supporters have launched a scathing attack against senior ANC members who became critical to the president following last week's cabinet reshuffle. President Zuma has been widely condemned by civil society, political parties and some within the ANC for changes to his executive. He amongst others replaced former finance minister Pravin Gordhan with Malusi Gigaba. The ANC youth league has lauded the move saying bringing in younger leaders in government will fast track delivery of government programmes. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Lesotho's former Prime Minister and leader of opposition All Basotho Convetion - Tom Thabane - has appeared in the Maseru Magistrate's Court to be charged for saying the country's King Letsie III should know that he can be removed. Thabane made the statements following the proclamation of elections by the King, where he said the King shouldn't have followed the advice of the Prime Minister. But Thabane is defiant, he says the case is politically motivated Nthakoana Ngatane reports.
Pressure is mounting on President Jacob Zuma to step down. The ANC stalwarts and veterans are the latest to call on the president to quit both as head of state and head of the governing party. This followed just three hours after Cosatu impressed on the ANC to recall its president. Last Friday, another alliance partner, the SACP, made a similar call. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
We look at S&P decision to downgrade South Africa's long term foreign debt to sub-investment grade rating,the road ahead with Fitch and Moody's and how fair is talk of dismissing credit ratings agencies as instruments of privilege, protecting so-called "white monopoly capital", that they are corrupt?
Ratings agency Standard and Poor's has downgraded South Africa to junk status. The rating change follows a cabinet reshuffle that saw finance minister Pravin Gordhan and his deputy Mcebisi Jonas removed from the Treasury. S&P held an emergency meeting over the weekend after perceptions were created that the move was intended to push through a one-trillion rand nuclear deal and to bail out entities like the SABC and SA Airways. The move weakened the rand against major currencies. In December, the S&P kept the country's sovereign credit rating at one notch above junk status.
The ANC is holding an extended meeting of its National Working Committee today. The NWC meeting, which normally takes place every Monday, was today postponed to allow the top six of the party to deliberate on recent events. These include Secretary General Gwede Mantashe and Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa speaking out publicly against President Jacob Zuma's failure to consult on last week's cabinet reshuffle.
More police have been deployed to Vuwani outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo. This comes after community structures representing concerned residents declared the start of a shutdown of services. They want the Municipal Demarcation Board to exclude some parts of Vuwani in the new LIM345 municipality.
Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini says her department will ensure that grants are paid according to schedule. The social security agency SASSA has been paying out grants since Saturday. This after the Constitutional Court extended SASSA's contract with Cash Paymaster Services for another 12 months after its expiry at the end of last month. Dlamini was speaking in Soweto where grant beneficiaries are queuing at pay-points across the township..
There are allegations that the new minister of Finance, Malusi Gigaba has signed the nuclear deal. Gigaba said at the weekend that he would not be reckless when it came to funding for plans to add more nuclear power to the country's energy mix. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba's spokesperson, Mayihlome Tshwete
Mpumalanga's ANC Chairperson, David Mabuza says leaders of the ANC who criticise President Jacob Zuma in public, are not disciplined. Mabuza was addressing journalists after welcoming members of the Bushbuckridge Residents Association who defected to the ANC. SABC Reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi has filed this report.
More police have been deployed to Vuwani outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo. This comes after community structures representing concerned residents declared the start of a shutdown of services. They want the Municipal Demarcation Board to exclude some parts of Vuwani in the new LIM345 municipality. For the latest we are now joined on the line by our reporter, Witness Tiva
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Adviser at ETF SA looks at the how the market ended last week, is South Africa facing a potential credit rating downgrade and the much anticipated deadline for the first SASSA payments after the Constitutional Court ruling last month is here.
An earth tremor is reported to have been felt in areas including Ferndale, Randburg, Kempton Park and Randfontein in Johannesburg. Other affected areas are Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom in the North West and Bultfontein and Hoopstad in the Free State. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SAfm listeners Amang Malaka in Bultfontein in the Free-State and John kleynhans, he is in Stilfontein.
President Jacob Zuma has fired Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and replaced him with Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba. Gordhan's deputy, Mcebisi Jonas, has also been axed and replaced by ANC Member of Parliament, Sifiso Buthelezi. President Jacob Zuma made the annoucement that he has reshuffled his cabinet, just before midnight. Zuma's named a total of ten new ministers and deputy ministers. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC political editor, Mzwandile Mbeje
President Jacob Zuma has sacked Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan after days of speculation that rocked the country's markets and currency. In a cabinet reshuffle late last night, the Presidency replaced Gordhan with Malusi Gigaba. The Deputy Finance Minister, Mcebisi Jonas, was also given the boot making Sfiso Buthelezi the new Deputy. Earlier this week, President Zuma recalled Mr Gordhan from an International Investment Promotion Road International Investment Promotion Road show in the United Kingdom and the United States. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the ANC's Secretary General, Gwede Mantashe, for more.
President Jacob Zuma has fired Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and replaced him with Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba. Gordhan's deputy, Mcebisi Jonas, has also been axed and replaced by ANC Member of Parliament, Sifiso Buthelezi. President Jacob Zuma made the annoucement that he has reshuffled his cabinet, just before midnight. He has fired a total of five ministers. Apart from Gordhan, Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom, Transport Minister Dipuo Peters, Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson and Public Service and Administration Minister Ngoako Ramathlodi have also been axed from Cabinet. Zuma's named a total of ten new ministers and deputy ministers. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the EFF's spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.
Calls for president Jacob Zuma to resign as expressed by struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada in a letter last year received resonance at his funeral in Johannesburg yesterday. This is after former president Kgalema Motlanthe read excerpts from the document - receiving a standing ovation from the mourners. Some senior ANC leaders say the president - who was not in attendance - should respect the wishes of the party and society at large. Senior political journalist Amos Phago has the details
Calls for president Jacob Zuma to resign as expressed by struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada in a letter last year received resonance at his funeral in Johannesburg yesterday. This is after former president Kgalema Motlanthe read excerpts from the document - receiving a standing ovation from the mourners. Some senior ANC leaders say the president - who was not in attendance - should respect the wishes of the party and society at large.
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at Wall Street and a mixed picture in Asian, Oil rallies to a 3-week high after data showed US Oil Inventories increased less than expected and European Commission blocks London Stock Exchange's merger with Germany's Deutsche Boerse
Samsung has launched the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, its first flagship phones since exploding phone debacle. The has a new voice assistant and larger display as the technology titan looks to steal a march on Apple and regain ground after the embarrassing Note 7 saga. hee in South Africa the S8 will sell for over R15 000 and the S8 Plus over R17. We spoke to Samsung Marketing Manager Justin Hume
- What to expect from the Reserve Bank's interest rate decision expected today, 2. What is the impact of the U.K. triggering article 50 to begin EU divorce. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Tokhan, Investmen Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager for more economic news.
- Asian markets are trading mostly higher following positive close on Wall Street. 2. Theresa May has signed the letter that will formally begin the UK's departure from the European Union. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments, for more.
- Increasing crop yields impact on inflation, 2. The concerns around the current period of low volatility 3. The improved performance of European equities relative to US equities. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Tokhan, Investmen Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager, for more.
The hearing into Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's application to bar the Gupta owned companies from pressuring him into intervening over the closure of their bank accounts has been adjourned until Wednesday. The hearing commenced with President Jacob Zuma's application as an interested party. There were three other applications that the high court ruled on before the main application could be heard. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Dr Cathy Powell, Senior Lecturer in Public Law at the University of Cape Town, for an in-depth analysis.
ANC's stalwarts have once again expressed concern over the political crisis facing the country. The stalwarts released a statement yesterday questioning why it was necessary for the judiciary to be intervening in matters such as the Nkandla scandal and the recent SASSA debacle if the country was not in a crisis. The recent concerns by the stalwarts also follows reports that Finance Minister Pravin Godhan may be removed from his position at the national treasury. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Professor Ben Turok, one of the signatories of the "For the Sake of Our Future", for more information.
Tributes continue pouring in for the late struggle icon, affectionately known as Uncle Kathy. Ahmed Kathrada passed away peacefully at the Donald Gordan hospital in Johannesburg on Tuesday morning. The ANC veteran was 87-years-old.
- Impacts of recalling Gordhan from the International roadshow 2. The conerns around the current period of low volatility 3. The improved performance of European equities relative to U.S. equities. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Tokhan, Investmen Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager, for more.
Tributes continue to pour in for Uncle Kathy who passed away at the Donald Gordon Hospital in Johannesburg. Nadir Tokhan, Investmen Analyst at 27-Four Investment Manager, is but one of the many South Africans who sent his condolences.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport and long time friend of the late Ahmed Kathrada, Ismail Vadi, shares his fondest memories of Uncle Kathy. Yesterday, high-profile dignitaries visited Uncle Kathy to pay their last respects.
High- level politicians and friends visited anti-apartheid struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada at a Johannesburg hospital last night. The 87 year old Rivonia trialist's condition deteriorated sharply yesterday. Kathrada was hospitalised earlier this month for surgery related to blood clotting on the brain. He has since experienced several post-operation complications and has pneumonia affecting both lungs, rendering his condition serious. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Executive Director of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, Neeshan Balton, for the latest developments.
ANC struggle icon Ahmed Kathrada has died at the age of 87. Recently, Kathrada was admitted to hospital for surgery relating to a blood clot on the brain. Kathrada was one of three surviving Rivonia Trialists - with Andrew Mlangeni and Denis Goldberg.
Struggle stalwart, Ahmed Kathrada, has died at age of 87. He passed away at the Donald Gordon Hospital this morning. A vociferous champion of non-racialism since his early political days Kathrada has been a beacon of light in the struggle against apartheid and injustice.
- Impact of the political divide in the United States 2. What are the effects of the ongoing conundrum in global oil markets 3. Also the challenges facing Anglo American. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Thokan of 27 Four Investment Managers for more.
The DA has joined civil rights group Sanco in asking Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane to launch an investigation into Eskom Acting CEO Matshela Koko. Koko allegedly awarded tenders worth R1billion to a company of which his stepdaughter is a Director. Party spokesperson Natasha Mazzone says Impulse International was awarded eight contracts during Koko's tenure as group executive. Mazzone says the DA will ensure that the rot at Eskom is laid bare. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Khulani Qoma, who speaks on Behalf of Eskom Board, for more.
- Asian Markets mostly lower amid rising doubts over U.S. President Donald Trump's ability to pass legislative reforms. 2. Dollar continues to fall, boosting the Emerging Markets currencies. 3. China lifts the suspension on the Brazilian meat exports. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO at Lehumo, Investments for more.
About 17 million SASSA beneficiaries are counting down to receiving their social grants on the 1st of April. The Constitutional Court has given Cash Paymaster Service (CPS) a go ahead to distribute grants after it declared its contract invalid. The Department of Social Development and SASSA have both issued a statement that it is all systems go for the payment of grants from the first of next month. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Spokesperson for SASSA, Paseka Letsatsi, for more on their state of readiness.
Chairperson of the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association in the Western Cape, Victor Wiwi, says they will meet with the Delft Taxi Association to try and reach an agreement. The two taxi associations have been in conflict over the taxi routes in the Western Cape. The violence has resulted in the deaths of 2 mini-bus taxis. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Wiwi for CATA's version of events and the way forward.
- With Anglo American now in danger of being canabalised, the South African economy needs a big new corporate champion to step into the breach. 2. From now on, mining's role as an economic transformation lever must be used to the full. 3. A new online market place has been launched for the buying, selling and storing of platinum metal. Martin Creamer, editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, speaks to Sakina Kamwendo.
- Some positive news on the local front with crop estimates revised higher for this year. 2. Preliminary PMI data for the major economies will be released today. What should we expect on this front? 3. Finally, other big news has been on US politics and the healthcare plan vote which has been postponed to today. What is there to keep an eye on? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics, for more.
- Asian shares higher despite a negative close on Wall Street 2. Rand trades at its best level in 18 months. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Lentsoane, Group CEO at Lehumo Investments, for more.
The situation is calm in Delft on the Cape Flats following taxi violence where two drivers from rival groups have been shot and killed over the past two weeks. Operators from Nyanga also allegedly fired several shots at Delft drivers earlier this week. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nazeem Daniels who is the Interim Chairman of the Delft Taxi Council.
An explicit video of a 14 year old known only as Sesethu has gone viral on the social media platforms. The video shows the teenage performing sexual acts on herself and narrating what happens. Reports are that the 14 year old had used a friend’s phone to record herself and had NO intentions of sharing the video online. In a Facebook post, Sesethu has since asked users to stop sharing the video and to consider her family. Attorney Nicholas Hall from Michalson's Attorneys says all those who shared the video of the teenager on the social media platforms can face prosecution. Hall also adds that Sesethu, as the creator and initial distributor of the video, could also face prosecution herself.
- Asian markets are trading mostly higher following a positive close on Wall Street, looks like calm is returning after recent selloff. 2. Brent Crude marginally higher despite a further increase in US Oil Inventories. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, Group CEO at Lehumo Investments, for more.
- There was a lot of data to digest in yesterday's session. Let's first talk about consumer inflation. We saw that CPI declined to 6.3% in February. 2. The current account meanwhile recorded quite a sizeable narrowing in the deficit. What was the driver behind this and what does it mean? 3. Finally, in terms of equity movements, we've seen the recent sell-off easing, what caused the initial sell-off? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics, for more Economics news.
ANC Nelson Mandela Bay region chairperson, Andile Lungisa could be hauled before a disciplinary committee if he does not resign from his position by tomorrow. This is after ANC Eastern Cape secretary, Oscar Mabuyane, sent him a letter yesterday ordering him to resign. Lungisa has been at loggerheads with party leaders including Secretary-General, Gwede Mantashe since his election tow weeks ago. The party says his election to a lower structure, while holding a provincial executive position, is in contravention of the party's constitution. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the ANC's spokesperson in the Eastern Cape, Mlibo Qoboshiyane, for more.
The Western Cape Minister of Transport, Donald Grant, says plans are under way to declare the Delft area a high risk area for public transport following violence related to the taxi industry. At least 2 mini bus taxi drivers have been shot and killed while transporting passengers in the past two weeks. A further, 23 people were arrested at the Delft taxi rank after a shooting incident involving taxi operators from Nyanga on Tuesday. Siphesihle Dube, spokesperson for the Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works, Donald Grant, speaks to Sakina Kamwendo for the latest developments.
The Western Cape Minister of Transport, Donald Grant, says plans are under way to declare the Delft area a high risk area for public transport following violence related to the taxi industry. At least two mini bus taxi drivers have been shot and killed while transporting passengers in the past two weeks. A further, 23 people were arrested at the Delft taxi rank after a shooting incident involving taxi operators from Nyanga on Tuesday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Siphesihle Dube, spokesperson for the Western Cape, Minister of Transport and Public Works, Donald Grant
Primary school learners at Ga-Mathekga village near Steilloop in Limpopo have been forced to use bushes to relieve themselves as their school has no toilets. Learners at Tselapedi Primary School use bushes near their school which the community alleges is infested with crawling animals such as snakes. The Education Department says a contractor it appointed to build the school, including toilets left the project halfway. Katlego Nyoni and Gift Mashaba compiled this report, Gift Mashaba reports
A six-month-old baby has died after being moved from one of the Gauteng Social Development department's Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCC) allegedly as a result of the strike by social workers. The department says the child was taken from Walter Sisulu CYCC in Soweto and placed at another care centre last week. The baby was among 90 children who have been moved from the provincial CYCC's. This follows the nationwide social workers' strike led by union Nehawu. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to NEHAWU's Zola Saphetha for more.
1) Asian markets tumble as U.S investors seek stability in safe haven counters, 2) Resources businesses looking to diversify as a rebound in commodity prices provides opportunities to restructure. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela, for more.
- There is a lot of local data scheduled for release today. First up is the Reserve Bank's leading indicator as well as consumer inflation. Let's briefly talk through these. 2. In addition to the CPI data, market participants will also be keeping an eye out for the Reserve Bank's Quarterly Bulletin release. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Manisha Morar from Economist at ETM Analytics for more.
Former DA leader and Premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille has warned that the party runs the risk of no longer being in a position to offer an alternative to the ruling party. She wrote an open letter to the Daily Maverick explaining the context of her tweets maintaining that although colonialism was evil, not every consequence had been negative. Zille also cautioned of the danger of her party adopting the ANC's policy of radical nationalism to get votes insisting that in South Africa, people are expected to shrink their minds to fit political correctness with being white considered the ultimate sin. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maimane's spokesperson, Mabine Seabe, for clarity.
Former Department of Social Development director general Zane Dangor suspects foul play after assailants invaded his house and intimidated his children. Dangor says he received a call from his daughter that two cars had pulled up outside their home. Dangor says his domestic worker approached the men and they grabbed her by the throat. He says his son managed to fight them off and locked himself in his room with his sister. Dangor says the men went through the house, but took nothing. Police did not open a case because nothing was taken. Earlier this month, Dangor resigned from the department due to a breakdown in his working relationship with Minister Bathabile Dlamin. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Captain Stanza from the Linden Police Station
The Mpumalanga MEC for Education Reginah Mhaule has visited the family of 14-year-old Siphamandla Choma who was left paralyzed after he was assaulted by his principal at Manyano Primary School, in Middelburg. His death was confirmed by the Health Department this morning. Choma had been admitted to a Middelburg hospital for observation. The department has since suspended the principal. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC reporter who has been working on the story Sibongile Mkani-Mpolweni
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Molefe Makete one of the survivors of the Sharpeville Massacre. On the 21st of March 1960, more than 50 black people were killed when police opened fire on a peaceful protest in Sharpeville. Makete says men, women and children had to flea as law enforcement officers started shooting at a crowd of about 5,000 people crowd outside the police station. The crowds had gathered at Sharpeville police station to protest against the pass laws, which they claim are designed by an apartheid government to seriously restrict their movement in white areas. Mr Makete is a PAC member and one of the leaders and survivors of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre. He spent more than 20 years in Robben Island
It's all systems go for the Human Rights Day celebrations at the Victoria Grounds in King William's Town in the Eastern Cape. The venue is significant as it was where the funeral service for the Black Consciousness Movement leader, Steve Biko, was held 40 years ago. President Jacob Zuma will deliver a keynote address at the ceremony, as Makhaya Komisa reports.
South Africans have welcomed the Constitutional Court's ruling on Friday, to extend the contract of Cash Paymaster Services for the next 12 months. This will ensure that beneficiaries will receive their grants on the 1st of April. The Court ruled that the contract be extended under the same terms and conditions, and with strict supervision. Calls have now been made for a process to be immediately initiated to ensure that stakeholders fully comply with the directives of the Constitutional Court, and the prescripts of the law. The African National Congress has also called on government to investigate thoroughly and act decisively, against those responsible for what the party calls an 'embarrassing and undesirable situation. 'On the Forum@8, we unpack the Concourt ruling, and look at what it means, going forward. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SASSA CEO, Thokozani Magwaza, and National Advocacy Manager at the Black Sash Trust, Elroy Paulus for more.
Tributes are pouring in for legendary South African actor, Joe Mafela, who passed away on Saturday. Mafela was involved in a car accident on his way back home from Soweto. The 75-year-old Mafela once visited the studio on the Forum at 8, here's a snippet of how Mafela reacted to the callers on the show that day.
Parliament is the latest institution to add its weight to the long list of voices condemning the break-in at the human resources wing of the Office of the Chief Justice in Midrand this past weekend. 15 computers containing sensitive information were stolen. The computers contain information about the country's judges, among other things. The incident came just one day after the Constitutional Court ruled in the social grants matter - severely criticising Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini and SASSA for their handling of the crisis. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Acting Police Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane's spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe, for the latest developments.
- International focus heading into the weekend was the G20 Summit in Germany. What exactly is the purpose of this meeting? 2. What were the key developments to take note of? 3. Locally, are there any pertinent developments to be aware of this week? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics, for more.
Today, the lawyer representing the Minister of Police Nathi Nhleko, will file for an appeal against the decision to have the appointment of Berning Ntlemeza as Head of the Hawks set aside. This follows a ruling on Friday by the High Court in Pretoria which found that the appointment of Ntlemeza by the Minister was unlawful. Judge David Mabuse ruled that when the Minister appointed Ntlemeza, he ignored 2 court judgments which found that Ntlemeza lacked integrity and honesty. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Sandile Ngidi, Spokesperson for the Minister of Police, Nathi Nhleko.
- Asian Markets mixed following a G20 meeting that failed to inspire investors 2. Rand Firms and could continue strengthening with domestic data expected this week. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela, for more economic news.
ANC secretary-general, Gwede Mantashe, says the ruling party is heading for a possible split ahead of the national conference in December if factional tendencies are not quickly dealt with. He says it is important for provinces to unite at conferences, to avoid people being paid by individuals to swing votes. Mantashe addressed the ANC cadre forum at Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape. Kim Daniels reports
Chaos erupted at Fort Hare University campus in East London after the Vice Chancellor allegedly refused to respond directly to students demands. A memorandum of demands was handed over last week listing in-sourcing of cleaners and security guards, high cost of residences as well as an implementation of a shuttle service at the institution. Students allege that some of these issues were agreed to by the former Vice Chancellor, Dr Mvuyo Tom. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to University spokesperson, Lizo Phithi, for the latest developments.
- Business leader Patrice Motsepe yesterday gave a stern warning to the mining industry to take mining communities extremely seriously. 2. The State-owned IDC is supporting a new low-cost, low-energy technology that could be a massive cost saver for struggling platinum mines. 3. The Canadians this week bought a big slice of Southern Africa’s zinc resources. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Martin Creamer, Publishing Editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
- Asian Shares mixed after a negative close on Wall Street. 2. Angela Merkel due to meet Donald Trump today. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investment for more.
Blinkwater Mills has agreed to pay the Competition Commission more than R10 million as a settlement for price fixing. Blinkwater, together with 11 other companies, were found to have colluded in the pricing of white milled maize products. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Communications at the Competition Commission, Sipho Ngwema, for more.
The Broadcasting, Electronic, Media & Allied Workers Union (BEMAWU), which is the biggest labour union at the SABC, has questioned the statement by the Public Broadcaster that it is under financial strain and that retrenchments may be on the cards. The labour union further says its perturbed by SABC management playing the victim whilst they are solely to blame for the state the SABC finds itself in. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to BEMAWU's spokesperson, Hannes du Buisson,
- Commodity shares surge yesterday with double digit gains in most resource counters 2. Indian billionaire seeks a £2bn stake in Anglo American 3. BOE keeps rates on hold but hawkish tilt keeps market on edge, supports sterling. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB for more.
Kagiso, our listener in Thaba Nchu in the Free State calls to tell us that he works at a school for the deaf and blind and that they have not been paid since January this year. He says NEHAWU (for which he is the Chairperson of) took the matter to the Department of Education but to no avail. The Department has apologised and said the money will be transferred within a week but that still has not happened. Kagiso claims this is not the first time that this has happened. The school experienced the same problems in December last year. Kagiso shared his frustration with Sakina Kamwendo.
- MSCI asia pacic index up 1.29% following the fed and the bank of japan announcement 2. The rand back below R13.00 against the dollar. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments for more Economic news.
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) is seeking reparations for municipalities following collusion in the procurement of infrastructure for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. Several construction companies were fined over 1.4 billion by the Competition Commission for anti-competitive behaviour. It's since emerged there might have been a settlement agreement reached between the companies and government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SALGA President Parks Tau who says they're seeking an urgent meeting with Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel.
- Fed cuts by 25bps but temper expectations for further hike. Markets surge! 2. Dutch elections indicate a win for Liberals, supports risk appetite for Euro. 3. SA retail sales remained weak in January showing that consumer headwinds remain. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB, for more.
Some of the people who will be directly and negatively affected if social grants are not paid in two weeks' time are the Disabled People South Africa (DPSA). The National Chairperson for DPSA, Robert Masambo, says the announcement that the grants will be paid by the 1st of April is not enough. He says the DPSA is anxious over the SASSA crisis. Robert Masambo speaks to Sakina Kamwendo for their reaction.
ANC struggle veteran, Ahmed Kathrada remains in a stable condition at the Johannesburg hospital following an operation. His foundation says he is sedated and recovering slowly. The 87-year-old was initially admitted last week for dehydration, but doctors found a clot from his brain which was removed. Doctors say the ANC stalwart is in a stable, but unpredictable condition. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Director of the Amed Kathrada Foundation, Neeshan Balton, for the latest developments.
- SA mining production beats estimates but manufacturing disappointed. Outlook for Q1 still positive though. 2. S&P conference in Johannesburg yesterday shared their thoughts on Our credit ratings. 3. Today is D-day for the Fed with Yellen expected to hike by 25bps. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB for more.
Net1 UEPs, the controversial parent company of social grants distributor Cash Paymaster Services, has warned that if it does not sign a new interim contract with SASSA and Treasury by today, more than 17million people will not get their grants by the 1st of April. The Constitutional Court will today hear non-profit organisation Black Sash's application to seek the reinstatement of the court's oversight role in the payments. SASSA will have to convince the court that a new interim contract with CPS must be signed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NET1 CEO, Serge Belamant, to hear what he had to say.
- It is a negative picture in Asia following a negative close on Wall Street. 2. Iron Ore Prices rebounding again this morning, up over 5% following a strong rally yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments for more.
- Asian Markets trading mixed 2. Scotland to seek second independence referendum, as UK gives greenlight to BREXIT. Ike Phahlane speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments for more.
Lawyers representing the doctor who was found guilty of culpable homicide, say Dr. Danie van der Walt will not be removed from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa. They say he was ordered to pay a fine after the conclusion of the council investigations on this matter. Doctor Van der Walt appeared at the Witbank Magistrate's court in Mpumalanga for sentecing yesterday. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports....
Durban has been stripped of the right to stage the 2022 Commonwealth Games after a trail of missed deadlines and financial problems that highlight the daunting burdens facing host cities for major sporting events. The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) said yesterday that the South African coastal city had failed to meet the promises contained in its bid, and the search for a replacement host is now on. Ike Phahla talks to Thabiso Sithole, SABC senior sports reporter and presenter, for more.
One of Kimberley's busiest intersections came to a standstill last night, as the community honoured two police officers who were gunned down last week. Warrant officer Duncan Vertue and Sergeant Gregory Vis died in a shoot-out with a former policeman - who was embroiled in a domestic dispute with his police officer wife. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the wreath laying and filed this report…
Today marks the deadline for Corruption Watch to publicly retract statements that were allegedly made by its Executive Director, David Lewis, that Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) is involved in corrupt activities in procuring the contract to pay social grants on behalf of SASSA. The Executive Director of Corruption Watch David Lewis says the sentiments expressed by Corruption Watch were previously shared by the Constitutional Court and they will not retract as a result. David Lewis speaks to Ike Phahla for more.
South Africa and Nigeria have agreed to set up an early warning system to avoid violence and intimidation against foreign immigrants recurring. International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane met with her Nigerian counterpart Geoffrey Onyeama in Pretoria, yesterday. The two have agreed to strengthening the bilateral relations as well as greater continental co-operation at the highest echelons of government. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
- Chinese industrial production and retail sales data indicates that 2017 started on a firm footing. Mohammed? 2. We have Dutch elections this week as well a talk of a second Scottish referendum weigh on Eurozone outlook. 3. Local focus on manufacturing and mining data coming out today. What should we expect Mohammed? Ike Phahla speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB.
Victims of a fire at Imizamo Yethu in Hout Bay in the Cape Peninsula have begun rebuilding their shacks. Various NGOs are working with the City of Cape Town to coordinate and distribute aid.15 000 people were affected in Saturday morning's fire when 3500 structures were destroyed. Two people were killed in the blaze. Spokesperson for the City of Cape Town, Charlotte Powell, says 90 percent of the water in the area has been restored, while the city's solid waste department has removed the debris. Meanwhile last night in Athlone Industrial area, 30 structures were destroyed in yet another fire in Haji Ebrahim Crescent. Three hundred people are affected. Powell says the city's NGO partners are providing humanitarian relief. Mlami Maneli reports...
The ANC has admitted it needs to address and look into its internal challenges such as social distance between members and leadership, poor governance and abuse of organizational processes. This is contained in the party's Policy Discussion Documents on Organisational Renewal launched in Johannesburg yesterday. These proposals are set to be discussed when the party holds its 5th National Policy Conference in June. Political Analyst, Somadoda Fikeni, says ANC should look at what has hindered it from implementing what is contained within Transformation document. Bongi Gwala speaks to Somadoda Fikeni for more.
- US jobs numbers strong, sealing the case for a FED hike this week 2. EM FX under pressure on strong dollar but global search for yield still a strong theme 3. Oil prices continue to slide as US shale undermine OPEC ability to drain surplus. Bongi Gwala speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Researcher at Nedbank CIB, for more.
- Asian shares mostly higher on the back of strong US Jobs report 2. Domestic Economic Data due for release this week: Mining, retail sales to offer growth signals. Bongi Gwala speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments for more.
The community of Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape has set alight two suspects who they allege were terrorising residents around the small town. Four other suspects were rescued by the police who received information that the suspects who call themselves "The Vampires " were apprehended and about to be burned alive, allegedly by the angry community. The community also marched to the local police station demanding police intervention in the fight against crime. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
The ANC has admitted it needs to address and look into its internal challenges such as social distance between members and leadership, poor governance and abuse of organizational processes. This is contained in the party's Policy Discussion Documents on Organisational Renewal launched in Johannesburg today. These proposals are set to be discussed when the party holds its 5th National Policy Conference in June. Mbali Sibanyoni reports
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at how the strong US jobs numbers strong will influence the a possible Federal Reserve hike this week, EM FX under pressure on strong dollar but global search for yield still a strong theme and oil prices continue to slide as US shale undermine OPEC ability to drain surplus
Acting National Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane says the one month old baby who was allegedly kidnapped in Durban is now at a place of safety. Police rescued the baby this morning from a vehicle on the N3 highway at the Mariannhill Toll Plaza. The child's mother and two other suspects who were in the same vehicle have been arrested. A massive search was launched on Friday after the mother, Sibongile Mbambo's car was allegedly hijacked with the baby inside. Bongi Gwala speaks to Athlenda Mathe spokesperson for acting national police commissioner, Kgomotso Phahlane.
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at the Asian shares mostly higher on the back of strong US Jobs report and the Domestic Economic Data due for release this week, what's to be expected?
Three women, two from Doornpoort, north of Pretoria and another one from the North-West Province, are reported dead due to malaria. The three, are said to have not been in a malaria prevalent area. One of the dead woman's husband is understood to be also infected. Professor Tiaan de Jager, Director at the University of Pretoria's Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, at the University of Pretoria says the recent abnormal rainfall and change in climate have created favourable conditions for mosquitoes to breed. Director of the Wits Malaria Research Institute, Prof Maureen Coetzee, raises alerts about their recent discovery of a new type of mosquito that is threatening to spread malaria in the country. Are these deaths related to the new malaria mosquito? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Professor Tiaan de Jager to find out.
Heavy rains in the Northern Cape have claimed the lives of four people near the Augrabies Falls national park near Kakamas. Four farm workers are believed to have been swept away in the Orange River and drowned. Police have retrieved three bodies. The search for the fourth body is continuing. Lerato Segalo reports
Market Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at South Korean equities which rose slightly amid growing political uncertainty after President Park Geun-hye's impeachment ruling boosting even the rest Asian Markets, oil is heading to $42 after speculators throw in the towel and recruitment agencies found by Competition Commission to be colluding
Foreigners owning shops at Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape are living in fear after they were attacked, allegedly by an armed gang of youths calling themselves "The Vampires". It's alleged they shot dead two Egyptians three days ago. In another incident, they allegedly beheaded two security guards who were working in a shop owned by a Pakistani. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports.
SABC spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago says the public broadcaster's editorial policy has to be reviewed as 2004 was some time ago. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo Kganyakgo said the SABC respects the process.
ANC veteran Winnie Madikizela-Mandela has been admitted to Johannesburg's Milpark hospital. Her family says the admission is for a routine medical checkup. In December, Madikizela-Mandela was discharged from the same hospital but the nature of her ailment then was unconfirmed. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Madikizela-Mandela's spokesperson, Victor Dlamini
Nerina Visser Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA looks at the big moves in markets these last few days, two t of which are oil and the rand and an expected rate hike in the US next week, or is there more to it?
SAA spokesperson Tlali Tlali says an SAA flight has been delayed due to protest by Meter taxis on roads leading to the OR Tambo International Airport
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at how China's producer price inflation accelerated to its fastest pace in nearly nine years in February and by more than expected as prices of steel and other raw materials extended a torrid rally and Samsung trial gets underway, with potentially sweeping results for Korea Inc.
Protesting Reiger Park residents allege foregins are getting RDP houses in the area. The residents tried to torche a councillor's house this morning saying he is NOT helping them. Speaking to that Sakina Kamwendo on #AMLive Human Settlement's Matilda Gasela says foreign nationals do NOT qualify for RDP houses however, beneficiaries of the scheme then pass their houses on to other people.
South Africa will use its chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association to unlock and upscale the economic potential of its vast ocean. That's according President Jacob Zuma while speaking to the SABC at the end of his two-legged visit to Indonesia last night. He undertook a State Visit to the south-east Asian country and also attended the leaders summit of 21 countries bordering the Indian Ocean which include Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, Kenya and Tanzania among others. Ntebo Mokobo report
Police are continuing to monitor the situation in Reiger Park in the East Rand in Johannesburg after residents embarked on a protest early this morning, blockading several roads in the area. It is understood that the residents went on a rampage this morning and attempted to burn the house of a local councillor. SAKINA KAMWENDO speaks to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
Northern Cape Premier Sylvia Lucas says they need to consult with the community of Bankara Bodulong near Kuruman, before they allow foreign nationals back into the area. Over 30 foreign shop owners were evacuated after their shops were looted and destroyed last year. Community members torched their shops and took stock worth more than 10-million-rand. The foreign nationals are now being accommodated at the Kuruman police station. Reginald Witbooi reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA Business Confidence Index for February was released yesterday, and on the face of it, was quite poor and what is "Twin Peaks" what is it all about?
Just few weeks before World Malaria Day, a new type of mosquito which threatens to spread malaria in South Africa has been discovered. A team of scientists from the Wits Research Institute for Malaria, who made the discovery, says this means South Africa needs to intensify malaria vector control. One of the Scientists who supervised the research is Prof Maureen Coetzee, the director of the Wits Malaria Research Institute. She joins us on the line to tell us more.
The National Assembly has approved the SABC Inquiry report, with an objection from the UDM. The report was produced following the Ad Hoc Committee's inquiry into the affairs of the SABC and the Board's fitness to hold office. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent
The PRASA board and former acting CEO, Collins Letsoalo, were having a heated exchange in Parliament trying to explain his alleged 350 per cent salary increase. Letsoalo and a PRASA delegation appeared before Parliament's Transport Committee to explain matters in the parastatal. It has come to light that Letsoalo - who was seconded from the Transport Department to PRASA - had allegedly raised his own salary. The director of the board, Bernard Phitsane, has told the committee that the board did not know about the salary increase. Letsoalo - whose secondment has since been reversed - has however vehemently denied increasing his salary saying he only enquired about a secondment allowance entitled to him. Zalene Merrington has more
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian equities were in the red on Wednesday amid mounting geopolitical risks in the region and rising expectations that the Federal Reserve would tighten monetary policy next week and New CEO for MTN, after shock exit of the Mteto Nathi
A high-level investigation is underway into last night's multi-million rand robbery at the O.R Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. It's believed the gang pretending to be police officers robbed an awaiting aircraft. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Hawks' Hangwani Mulaudzi
The country should be outraged that young and healthy boys die each year at initiation schools and nobody takes responsibility for that. That's the word from the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities in Johannesburg. The Commission is holding hearings into the deaths of young people at initiation schools across the country. The hearings started in Gauteng today and will proceed to the worst affected province, the Eastern Cape. Senior journalist Thabile Mbhele reports
Nerina Visser Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA look at the GDP numbers that were released yesterday which are the worst since 2009, just after the global financial crisis, China is on target to become the largest economy in the world in less than 10 years and is China growing?
South Africa has revoked its instrument of withdrawal from the Rome Statute in a diplomatic communication to the United Nations Secretary General's office. The UN has yet to confirm receipt of the note but the South African Mission has confirmed the move. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
Bodies of suspected to be of illegal miners, have been found in Benoni on Gauteng's East Rand. The bodies were found late yesterday. 6 bodies were recovered on Sunday and the latest finding now brings the total number of bodies found so far to 14. Police say the motive for the killings may be linked to rival gangs fighting over territory. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to police spokesperson, Colonel Lungelo Dlamini, now joins us on the line for more..
The final report by the Ad Hoc Committee probing the affairs of the SABC will today be up for discussion in the National Assembly. Amongst other recommendations by the report is that president Jacob Zuma should consider firing Communications Minister Faith Muthambi for her role in the meltdown at the SABC, and the inspector-general of intelligence must investigate the broadcaster for setting spooks on its employees. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Chairperson of the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee probing the affairs of the SABC, Vincent Smit.
- Asia trade mixed, Aussie dollar strengthens after RBA holds rates unchanged 2. The world bank optimistic about the South African economy. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela.
Another 8 bodies, suspected to be of illegal miners, have been found in Benoni on Gauteng's East Rand. The bodies were found late yesterday. 6 bodies were recovered on Sunday and the latest finding now brings the total number of bodies found so far to 14. Police say the motive for the killings may be linked to rival gangs fighting over territory. SAPS Spokesperson, Colonel Lungelo Dlamini, speaks to Sakina Kawmendo for more.
- Yesterday we spoke about the importance of getting our GDP growth on a much higher level than the expected 0.5% recorded in 2016. One of the positive developments that came out of the crisis just over a year ago, was the improved cooperation between Government, Business and Labour. What progress has been made on this front? 2. This is indeed good news. There is a lot of focus on what government is expected to bring to the table to improve economic growth. Do you think Business is doing enough? Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at EFT SA, speaks to Sakina Kamwendo for more.
The Limpopo Health Department says it is looking at ways of putting the Thabazimbi hospital under a state of emergency. The provision of services has been disrupted due to flooding. The department's spokesperson Thabiso Teffo says the casualty ward has been closed and patients taken to other wards, while other patients are being transferred to the Bela Bela hospital. This is the second time the hospital has been flooded. Our reporter Witness Tiva has filed this report
Although there has been a sharp improvement in water levels of many dams in the country, the Mangaung Metro which includes Bloemfontein will keep water restrictions in place. This is because the water levels of dams supplying Mangaung Metro are still a matter of concern, This includes the Rustfontein Dam which is only at about 40-per cent. But the Mangaung Metro has emphasised the importance of conserving water. Spokesperson Qondile Khedama says water restrictions are still place...IThabiso Radebe reports
Health services have come to a standstill at KwaZakhele Day Hospital in Port Elizabeth. Workers downed tools demanding the Health Department beef up security and properly fence the hospital following a robbery. On Friday two men masquerading as patients entered the hospital and held staff hostage at gunpoint demanding that they open the safe. Patients were turned away from the hospital yesterday as nurses complained that they do not feel safe. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Health Department Spokesperson in the Eastern Cape, Sizwe Kupelo.
- It has been a busy weekend for SASSA (South Africa Social Security Agency) and Bathabile Dlamini, the Minister of Social Development. With only 26 days to go before the social grants have to be paid to 17m grant recipients, are we any closer to knowing how these payments are going to be made? 2. Let's turn our attention to the release of the final quarter GDP growth for 2016 due out tomorrow. What do we expect? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at EFT SA.
1) Asian markets mainly positive but still concerns hover over security after 4 missiles where fired by N.Korea, 2) Sibanye gold acquisition still being scrutinised after the U.S. watchdog weighs in concerns. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela
Parliament's public money watchdog, SCOPA says it's angry about the resignation of the newly appointed Director-General of Department of Social Development Zane Dangor over the SASSA debacle. Dangor tendered his resignation on Friday but is still expected to serve three months' notice at the Department. There has also been reaction from some political parties to Dangors' resignation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Murray Hunter, Spokesperson for the Right to Know.
Father of 19-year-old boy accused of killing his 67-year-old sugar mama, says the law must take its course. The teenager and co-accused strangled the elderly woman and dumped her body in Marian Hill, Kwa-Zulu Natal. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo on #AMLive the father of the teenager Nick Nzama says he only became aware of a romantic relationship between his son the deceased later after the crime had happened.
Lesotho's prime minister has lost a no-confidence vote in parliament, deepening the political uncertainty in the mountain kingdom ahead of a snap election likely within three months. It is one of the world's poorest countries and its economy is heavily dependent on its neighbour, to where it exports water and hydroelectric power. Elvis Preslin speaks SABC correspondence in Lesotho, Nthakoana Ngatane
Newly appointed Director-General of Department of Social Development Zane Dangor over the SASSA debacle. Dangor tendered his resignation on Friday but is still expected to serve three months' notice at the Department. Dangor cites that break down in relations with Minister Bathabile Dlamini as a reason for his resignation. He speaks to Weekend #Amlive's Elvis Preslin
Operations at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg continue as normal today. This is despite yesterday's incident that left 5 people injured. Yesterday the Academic Hospital collapsed allegedly due to negligence on the part of the contractor. Doctors at the hospital claim they have been raising concerns about the roof but have not had their worries attended to. Among the injured are 2 construction workers, 2 security guards and a hospital staff member. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Dr Steve Moeng from the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital for the latest developments.
SASSA grants might have to be delivered by trucks to beneficiaries, if attempts to renew the contract with service providers fail. This is according to the Department of Social Development Director General, Zane Dangor. He was updating the portfolio committee on communications in Parliament yesterday about different routes that SASSA might have to resort to if the negotiations with Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) don't succeed. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Zane Dangor for more.
1.Platinum has been badly hit by anti-diesel sentiment in the wake of the Volkswagen car emission scandal in the United States. 2. South Africa’s Sibanye Gold went on a charm offensive in the United States this week to woo shareholder backing its big American acquisition. 3. The mining industry’s downfall was caused by spending too much capital at the wrong time, says Glencore. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Martin Creamer Publishing Editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
- Asian markets dragged down by falling commodity prices 2. The Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has urged South Africans to buy shares in the Reserve Bank. What are the shares worth 3. Barclays manufacturing PMI what it means for South Africa? Lungi Malinga from Effectus Capital Management
- Private sector credit growth in South Africa 2. Snapchat shares closed their first day of trading up at 44 percent. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Thokan of 27 four Investment Managers.
FeesMustFall campaigner at the Durban University of Technology Bonginkosi Khanyile has been released from the Westville Prison in Durban. This follows a ruling by the Constitutional court that Khanyile be released on 250 rand bail under strict conditions. He was the only student still in custody after being arrested last September for allegedly firing a sling shot at police and controvening bail conditions for a previous offence. We spoke to his lawyer, Nhlakanipho Nxumalo ahead of Khanyile's release...
Ekurhuleni Mayor Mzwandile Masina has called on the South African National Defence Force to assist with the search and rescue operation of 5-year-old Richard Thole who fell into a mineshaft at the weekend. Rescue operations have come to naught in Jerusalem, an informal settlement in Boksburg, east of JHB. We spoke to Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services spokesperson, William Ntladi.....
Market analyst, Nadir Thokan of 27 four investment managers looks at South African markets following release of new car sales figures that were released this week and food inflation in South Africa
South Africa's competition watchdog is seeking to charge Unilever 10-percent of its annual turnover. This follows an investigation by the Commission which found that Unilever together with Sime Darby had at least since 2004 to 2013 entered into an agreement not to compete with each other in respect of certain pack sizes of margarine and edible oils. Sime Darby settled with the Commission in 2016 and now the Commission is seeking an order from the Competition Tribunal to fine Unilever. We spoke to Head of Law at Monash South Africa, Professor Tshepo Mongalo...
The ANC has moved to reassure commercial farmers that the speeding up of land redistribution will take place within the law. The party was reacting to statements by President Jacob Zuma and land reform minister Gugile Nkwinti that legislation will be amended to allow for expropriation of land without compensation. ANC deputy secretary general Jessie Duarte says the party has asked Nkwinti to draft legislation within the confines of the constitution
Former president Kgalema Motlanthe says the land issue remains a contentious one in the country. Motlanthe is leading a high level panel assessing the effectiveness of key legislation introduced in 1994. The panel is holding public hearings in Rustenburg in the North West. It heard from most participants that there's still a large number of people who have had their ancestral land returned to them, while others say that only a section of the community benefits from the riches of their land. Itumeleng Kgajane reports
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the only way to make the 3 500 rand minimum wage effective, is to ensure maximum compliance. He was answering questions in the National Assembly. He also faced tough questions on the recent excessive security measures taken during the State of the Nation Address as well as on the death of over a hundred mentally-ill patients in Gauteng last year. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
The Lesotho National Assembly has passed a vote of no confidence in prime minister Pakalitha Mosisili's government. The opposition overzealously voted for the motion, while the government barely said no. This gives the Prime Minister three days to resign or advise the King to dissolve parliament and call for elections. Nthakoana Ngatane reports
The Nigerian Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama had earlier summoned the South Africa's High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lulu Mnguni, to discuss the strained relations between Africa's two biggest economies. Onyeama said he is worried about the safety of Nigerian nationals living in South Africa and the destruction of their property. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mnguni for more details.
- Asian Shares Mostly Higher after Donald Trump speech. 2. Snap Chat IPO Countdown, Snap Chat expected to start trading on Thursday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, Group CEO at Lehumo Investments
- Cash build shares up by 0.98% 2. Trade deficit numbers came out yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Thokan of 27 four investment managers.
The National Youth Council of Nigeria is reported to have threatened to shut down all South African businesses today over the recent conflicts between locals and foreign nationals. The council made the call during a recent protest at the South African embassy in Abuja, Nigeria. South Africa's mobile-operator MTN Group earlier noted with concern violence and vandalism at its property in Nigeria, where protesters attacked and vandalised its head office. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to National Vice President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Prince Adeso for further developments.
Members of the Coal Transporters Forum have staged a protest in Pretoria that has left motorists frustrated in major traffic disruptions. Trucks have been parked from the Nelmapius turnoff up to Solomon Mahlangu drive on the N21. Members of the Forum along with the workers will convoy to the Union Buildings and handover a memorandum, putting the total of demonstrators at the total of around 2000 people. The Coal Transporters Forum requests Request the president to implement Independent Power Producers at later stage as coal cheaper is to produce. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Deputy Chairperson from the Coal Transporters Forum, Mary Phadi.
The EFF leader Julius Malema's unsuccessfully challenged the ANC to take up the party's offer of 6-percent to amend the constitution to expropriate land without compensation. The National Assembly rejected the motion. It required two thirds of the votes to pass the motion. The PAC, APC and Agang are some of the parties that supported the EFF Motion. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent monitored the debate and filed this report
The ANC caucus within the North West Provincial Legislature has urged Premier Supra Mahumapelo to go ahead with his government's plan of erecting President Jacob Zuma's statue in Groot Marico outside Zeerust. The provincial government is planning to put up a six metre giant statue of President Zuma . The tender has already been advertised to sculpture and erect the statue by the Provincial Culture Arts, and Traditional Affairs Department. Patrick Dintwa reports
The looting of foreign-owned shops continued last night in Jeppestown, Johannesburg. Police say the looting was carried out by a group of hostel dwellers in the area. Public order police continued to monitor the situation. This follows the protest action demanding foreign nationals in Pretoria West and Atteridgeville to curb their alleged criminal activities. Residents claim that the foreign nationals are drug lords and run prostitution brothels. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to reporter Chriselda Lewis for more.
- Let's talk about SASOL earnings 2. Nadir talk to us about the Bidvest earnings. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Thokan of 27 four investment managers
- The MSCI AC ASIA PACIFIC Higher, led by the Nikkei. 2. The dollar hanging on to gains ahead of the Donald Trump's address to Congress. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments
Transport and Allied Workers' Union, SATAWU will be seeking a meeting with the Transport Minister over challenges at Passenger Rail Agency, Prasa. SATAWU says it is worried by media reports that former PRASA acting CEO Collins Letsoalo had given himself a salary increase of more than three hundred percent. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Satawu's general secretary, Zenzo Mahlangu
The National Treasury has until today to submit a proposed strategy to the Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane on how outstanding pay-outs for former Venda Homeland civil servants will be paid out. This in light of an order by the former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela to get Government Employees Pension Fund to pay former public servants what is due to them. Yolisa Tyantsi who speaks on behalf of The National Treasury is on the line to tell us more
Passenger Rail Agency Prasa's board has terminated the contract of Acting Group Executive Chief Officer Collins Letsoalo with immediate effect. Letsoalo will return to the Transport Department, where he worked before being seconded to Prasa. The board says it views the controversy over the Acting GCEO's remuneration package in a dim light. Weekend newspapers reported that Letsoala had hiked his salary by 350 per cent. At a media briefing yesterday, Letsoalo rejected the reports. Sakina speaks to the Chairperson of the PRASA board Popo Molefe
The Department of Higher Education and Training says the Back To The Bible Training College in Mpumalanga is a bogus college as it is not registered with the Department as a private Higher Education Institution. The Department has since opened a case against the college in an attempt to close it down. This will affect the hundreds of students from various African countries, wishing to become pastors. The bogus degrees have been on offer for the past 15 years at the bogus institution. Izak du Plessis reports ....
The SACP has described President Jacob Zuma's new notion of radical economic transformation as nothing but rhetoric meant to further enrich the elite. SACP general secretary Blade Nzimande says the term is the same as constant references to "white monopoly capital". He asked whether the lives of the black majority would change for the better if there was "black monopoly capital". The ANC has repeatedly called for radical economic transformation as a means to transform the economy to benefit black people. Nzimande was speaking during a media briefing in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on the outcomes of the SACP CEC meeting. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the first SACP Deputy General Secretary, Jeremy Cronin, for more.
- What do we make of Anglo's decision to reverse asset sales 2. Where to from here for finding value in equities and some of the benefits of the new taxes announced in the budget. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nadir Thokan of 27 four investment managers.
The man who was asked to go resuscitate PRASA from its financial woes is now being accused of giving himself a 350 percent salary increase. Collins Letsoalo, the former CEO of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) resigned from the Corporation amidst allegations of death threats against his life. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Lillian Mofokeng for more.
President Jacob Zuma has concurred with a call by the ANCYL that the leadership of the ANC should also reflect young people. Zuma was addressing the ANCYL KwaZulu-Natal Provincial conference underway in Durban. Meanwhile ANCYL President Collin Maine called on President Jacob Zuma to remove Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan - accusing him of being a stumbling block on radical economic transformation. Vusi Makhosini reports....
- Japan leads Asian markets lower as investors await U.S. economic news 2. Rand trading slightly weaker however still below R13.00. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments for more.
Former Eskom CEO, Brian Molefe's swearing in, in Parliament continues to be at the epicenter of public debate. While the dark cloud continues to loom over his head following his implication in the Former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela's, State of Capture Report, there is speculation that Molefe might replace Gordhan as Minister of Finance. Patrick Dintwa reports...
- Markets in Asia were mostly lower in morning trade early morning 2. Tesla's 'close to the edge' cash foretells capital raise 3. South African regulator allows Eskom to raise tariffs by 2 percent in 2017/18. Sakina Kamendo speaks to Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela for more.
A proposed recommendation for action to be taken against Communications Minister Faith Muthambi generated an intense debate in the Ad Hoc Committee probing the affairs of the SABC. One of the observations was that Muthambi may have interfered in the operations of the SABC. There was general consensus that the Ethics Committee investigate Muthambi's conduct and for the matter to be referred to the president who appointed her. But the DA also wants the Public Protector to investigate her for allegedly contravening the Executive Ethics Act.Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more...
- Producer inflation came out yesterday, and much softer than was expected 2. What does all this mean for interest rates? 3. The Department of Energy is today scheduled to announce the fuel price change for March. What can we expect? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics, for more.
- An investment of billions of rands is on the cards for the deep Mponeng gold mine on the Far West Rand 2. Discussions are under way between Germany and South Africa for the introduction of fuel cell buses 3.A new national rail strategy is being drafted to give direction to the underperforming rail sector. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Martin Creamer, Publishing Editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Government says it will study the Pretoria High Court's judgement before deciding on a course of action. The court yesterday set aside Pretoria's decision taken in October last year to withdraw from the international criminal court on the grounds that the move was invalid and unconstitutional. The application to set aside the decision was brought by the Democratic Alliance. The party argued that Justice Minister, Mike Masutha, unlawfully bypassed Parliament when he made the decision and therefore did not act in line with the Constitution. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports...
- South Africa will target high earners with a new personal income tax 2. Markets in Asia traded mostly lower on Thursday, following a mixed close in U.S. equities overnight as minutes from the Federal Reserve's previous meeting hinted that a rate hike is coming "fairly soon." Sakina Kawendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela.
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan has tabled the 2017/2018 budget with a total expenditure of 1. 56 trillion rand. His message was very clear - the country is once again at a crossroads, and tough choices have to be made. Lulama Matya reports…
- What are your overall thoughts? 2. What were the key highlights and what stood out for you? 3. What do you think the ratings agencies make of the budget? Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics, for more.
- Budget Day is finally here. There is a lot of talk about government needing to raise revenue. How could this be achieved? 2. Could you talk us through some of the expenditure considerations as the finance minister deliver his budget speech later today? 3. Anything else we should be on the lookout for? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics for more.
- Markets in Asia traded mixed on Wednesday, despite U.S. gains, as investors await policy details from the Trump administration on tax reforms and deregulation 2. South Africa's rand weakens, Shoprite tops stocks index. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela, for more.
Today marks the day on which the Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, is set to deliver his much anticipated Budget speech. Speculations are that there will be likelihood of increases in taxation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Equity Analyst from Effectus Capital Management, Lungile Malinga, to share more.
Former Eskom CEO is at the epicenter of controversy yet again after the announcement that he would be appointed as a member of Parliament. The decision by the North-West ANC executive has split the Haartebees branch. While branch chairperson, Bethuel Mmutle, produced two membership forms as proof that Molefe was a member, another faction led by Christina Malula desputed that. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Senior Reseach Fellow and Political Economist at Trade Collective, Lebohang Pheko.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets in positive territory as the US celebrates President's day and Citi Bank is to pay R69 million penalty to the competition commission
A 30 year old SAfm listener Philikis Mariba from Kgobokwane Limpopo, is accusing a government hospital and the MEC of Health in the province Dr Phophi Ramathuba, of medical malpractice and negligence. He says he has been living with a foreign hazardous object in his left eye after undergoing a procedure to stitch his lacerated left eyeball at Mankweng hospital in 2014. Mr Mariba says he was sent to Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria for eye analysis where he says he discovered that his patient file was tempered with. Meanwhile, the MEC for Health Dr Phophi Ramathuba denies the allegations saying they tried everything to help the patient, he instead attacked doctors at the Steve Biko Hospital
Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics looks the release of the SARB's leading indicator data, the release of PMI data out of the developed markets and What is the 2017 global growth outlook looking like?
- Asian markets opened mostly lower on Monday, as investors await further details from President Donald Trump on his economic policies, including tax reforms 2. Pressure mounts ahead of the Budget Speech with the political rumours concerning investors 3. South Africa's rand slides as dollar rebounds. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela.
Parliament says it strongly refutes as 'baseless rumours and far-fetched fabrications' media reports that senior officials award themselves study bursaries over junior staff applicants. This follows reports that the secretary of parliament, Gengezi Mgidlana, awarded himself a bursary to study for a master's degree after turning down fifty junior applicants, claiming the legislature had run out of funds. Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo says while parliament would have liked to assist each and every applicant, the reality is that there are limited resources. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Moloto Mothapo for more.
The Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan will deliver his 2017 Budget Speech on Wednesday. As a build-up, we talk to different stakeholders to hear what they are anticipating to get out of the speech. Today we put the spotlight on the Congress of South African Trade Union, COSATU. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to its President, Sdumo Dlamini.
Foreign nationals affected by public violence in Pretoria West say the South African government is not doing enough to protect them. They say they are living in fear after their businesses were robbed and destroyed. This comes after angry residents torched two houses and a motor vehicle panel beating business believed to be a haven for drugs and prostitution allegedly operated by Nigerian nationals. Phanuel Shuma reports.
Hazel Ngubeni has been fired as South Africa's High Commissioner to Singapore after news of her spending two years in prison in the United States for smuggling a bag of cocaine into the country in 1999 emerged. This comes after the Security Agency announced that her security clearance has been revoked and that she is being investigated. Arthur Fraser, the director-general and accounting officer of the State Security Agency, has since written to International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane stating that the agency has revoked Ngubeni's security clearance. Sakina Kamwendo Sakina speaks to Senior Investigative Reporter at Sunday Times, Mzilikazi wa Afrika
Manisha Morar, Economist at ETM Analytics looks at the much anticipated Budget speech by Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and the rand recorded one of its best week's last week, at one stage breaking below R13 to the dollar.
- US equities close lower; Asian markets follow suit. 2. The Stronger Rand benefiting the Airline Industry. Comair reported strong results on Tuesday and cited the stronger Rand as one of the factors that contributed to improved earnings. Bongi Gwala speaks to Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments, for more.
1.Billions of rands are being earmarked for a big new coal expansion in Mpumalanga. 2. Millions of rands were spent in the last six months to clean up old mine dump areas. 3. Enormous global demand is on the way for South Africa’s platinum, the Mining Indaba has been told. Bongi Gwala chats to Martin Creamer, Publishing Editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
Government has praised Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu for his commitment to the promotion of justice, human rights, freedom and equality. In his reply to the debate of the 2017 State of the Nation Address in Parliament yesterday, President Jacob Zuma announced that government will rename the refurbished Marabastad Refugee Reception Office in Tshwane after Archbishop Tutu. Zuma is expected to officially open the revamped office this morning. Bongi Gwala speaks to Director General at the Department of Home Affairs Mkuseli Apleni for more.
- Rand pauses rally to test previous resistance levels 2. Gold prices look set to end its 7th positive week in the last 2 months as global risk rally slows 3. Big focus on SA budget next week. What are the expectations on this? Bongi Gwala speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Researcher at Nedbank CIB.
Flooding is expected in Vhembe and Mopani District Municipalities of Limpopo as tropical storm #Dineo sweeps through. Bongi Gwala speaks to Limpopo's Head of Disaster Management Centre, Esme Magwaza
The predictions of the collapse of the Rand started way back in early 2002. Kevin Wakeford, was asked to resign from his job as the CEO of the South African Chamber of Business, Sacob, after exposing the possibilities of the plummeting of the rand. The rand then plunged from 7.60 to 13.84 to the US dollar. Bongi Gwala chats Kevin Wakeford.
The Competition Commission says it will be working closely with its international counterparts on the case involving some banks for collusion in currency trading. The commission says the majority of the trade took place outside the country, involving mainly foreign banks. Some of the institutions implicated in the collusion are based in London, Australia, USA and New Zealand. Bongi Gwala is joined by Professor Simon Roberts, Executive Director of Center for Competition, Regulation & Economic Development at the University of Johannesburg, to look at what the Competition Law says about this.
Heavy winds and rains have been sweeping through Inhambane, Mozambique. Most of Inhambane's coast is at risk as Dineo, which has been classed a category four Cyclone, brings high winds of up to 200 kilometers an hour with the likelihood of rainfall of more than 100 millimetres in 24-hours. The South African Weather Services have warned residents in northern KwaZulu-Natal to brace themselves for heavy rains as tropical storm Dineo impacts the province in the next twenty four hours. For the latest on tropical storm Dineo, Bongi Gwala speaks to SABC Meteorologist, Tsietsi " The Hurricane" Monare.
- SA inflation eases but retail sales remain downbeat 2. US CPI surged leading to greater expectations of a Fed hike and supporting the dollar. It this was short lived 3. China's holdings of US treasuries drop by most on record last year as the Chinese utilize reserves to shore up economy. Bongwi Gwala speaks to Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB.
- Asian equities higher, following a bullish session in the U.S. Overnight 2. Stats SA will publish the consumer inflation rate for January. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to, Group CEO at Lehumo Investments Maudi Len-tsoane for more.
Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has called on government to scrap Life Orientation (LO) as a subject in schools. He says it's a complete waste of time and adds no value to the academic development of learners in South Africa. He instead suggests that Maths and History be made compulsory for all pupils until grade 12. However, others argue that LO is an important subject which promotes among others, personal development and career planning. They suggest there are also minor life skills that should be taught in Life Orientation at school like how to change a car tyre; basic first aid; basic household management, including budgeting. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Education Activist, Hendrick Makaneta, and Chief Curriculum Planner for Life Orientation at the Western Cape Department of Education, Ismael Paladia for their views.
DA Shadow Minister of Communications, Phumzile Van Damme has accused the Chairperson of the Communications Portfolio Committee, Humphrey Maxegwana, of blocking the appointment of the SABC interim Board. Van Damme says the appointment of an interim board at SABC is now 58 days overdue. Committee Chairperson, Humphrey Maxegwana, joins Sakina Kamwendo to interrogate the issue.
Tropical storm Dineo is continuing to strengthen as it moves through the Mozambique Channel. Along with hurricane force winds, Dineo is expected to produce extremely heavy rainfall over much of southern Mozambique before it moves westwards towards eastern Limpopo and Mpumalanga on Thursday. The Kruger National Park is among areas expected to experience heavy rain as well as localised flooding. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Edwin Thema, forcaster at the South African Weather Service, for more.
- SA unemployment data shows improvement over the last quarter 2. Rand is a global outperformer as is surged stronger yesterday 3. Janet Yellen's testimony yesterday failed to stir markets too much but have increase rate hike expectations. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Head Strategic Researcher at Nedbank CIB, Mohammed Nalla, for analysis.
The Gauteng health department has commenced with the preparation for the relocation of mentally ill patients from the controversial NGO's to appropriately equipped facilities. Health minister Aron Motsoaledi and Gauteng's newly appointed health MEC Gwen Ramokgopa announced in a media briefing in Pretoria. They say police are also conducting forensic investigations on 19 unclaimed bodies, believed to be that of the mentally ill persons who were moved to the NGO's from the Life Esidemeni facility. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to attorney at SECTION27, Sasha Stevenson.
1.Chinese Inflation surge will spur policy questions on stimulus 2. S&P 500 show 72% of companies that have reported earnings so far have indicated growth 3. Apple market cap surpasses $700bn as S&P tops 20trn with Mohammed Yaseen Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB,
When President Jacob Zuma promised jobs in his State of the Nation Address in Parliament last week, he sparked a great deal of heated debate among South Africans, about how that is to be achieved. Political analyst Prince Mashele commented that the president actually expected the jobs to come from white South Africans because it is white South Africans who create jobs, and not black people. Mashele says since 1994, black people have not established any massive factories to create jobs for their own. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Prince Mashele for more.
- Asian markets mixed this morning after a strong rally yesterday 2. OPEC reports record compliance with output cuts, also raises 2017 oil demand growth forecast Maudi Len-tsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments.
An ANC councillor, Nosipho Makeke-Tyobeka and a Police Major-General, Sandra Malebe-Themba, are among people who were allegedly operating illegal NGO's that housed psychiatric patients from Life Esidimeni. The Gauteng Democratic Alliance (DA) Shadow Minister for Health, Jack Bloom says, the Police General who is also the Executive Chairperson of the Re-Bafenyi Victim Empowerment Centre (RVEC), is the same person who resigned from the police in 2013 after being investigated for misconduct, but was employed again in 2015 after acting commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane took office. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Jack Bloom for more.
The forensic investigator, Paul O'Sullivan says the courts must deal with the police who arrested him despite a court order saying the police must give him 48 hours' notice to report to a police station. O'Sullivan was arrested yesterday afternoon in Centurion on charges of impersonating an IPID officer, after leaving his attorneys. The arrest allegedly relates to his investigations into acting police commissioner, Kgomotso Phahlane's eight million rand house. O'Sullivan was released just after midnight after his legal team brought an urgent application for his release based on the court order of November 2016. Sakina Kawendo speaks to O'Sullivan's lawyer, Willie Spies, to unpack the issue.
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at markets in Asia extents gains as Trump and Abe agrees to a trade talk and the FED in focus as Janet Yellen testifies before Senate and House committees on the economy and Fed policy.
Pandemonium erupted as Orlando Pirates supporters lividly went on the rampage after their six-nil thrashing against Mamelodi Sundowns. Security measures appeared not to be sufficient as the violence spilled onto the Loftus field. Orlando Pirates assistant coach, Benson Mhlongo, has since condemned the fans behaviour. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Former PSL General Manager, Ace Nqcobo for more.
The JSE closed Friday's trading session mainly higher. The All Share index rose by 1.5% to 52 000 687; Financials gained 1.6% and the Industrials 25 index was 1.3% firmer. The Top 10 Resources increased by 1.8%, but the platinum mining index declined by 1% and the gold mining index was 2% lower. Mohammed Yaseen Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB, joins us for more.
South Africa's protest action is many a times characterised by violence as a result of frustration in all spheres in society. Have the spaces for members of society to voice their concerns shrunk? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Nomfundo Mogapi from the Center for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation for more.
Despite Life Orientation's contribution to the foundations in ethics and social responsibility, many argue that it should be scrapped from the curriculum as it holds no eductaional value. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Education Activist, Hendrick Makaneta.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation says celebrating Nelson Mandela's centenary is not only for South Africans but for all those who globally respected the former president. The Foundation will launch the Nelson Mandela Centenary Programme in Soweto today, marking 100 years since the birth of the world icon. Madiba died on December 5, 2013 at the age of 95 Mbali Sibanyoni Reports
13-year-old learner from Knysna in the southern cape is on the brink of achieving worldwide fame after discovering a dinosaur tooth. Report by Sagree Chetty
Government will play a more direct role in the economy to drive transformation. That's the key message from President Jacob Zuma during his State of the Nation Address in Parliament last night. The president has committed government to changing the fundamental structure of the country's economic patterns and ownership announcing several measures and legislation in that regard. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
To help us understand the legality of the mayhem that took place in parliament, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Lecturer of Public Law at the University of Cape Town, Dr Cathy Powell.
SONA 2017 has come and gone, and now it is time for the post mortem. What is your assessment of the events of last night? As expected, there was much focus on the process of Radical Economic Transformation. What did you make of the proposals put forward? Ownership of JSE listed companies once again came under the spotlight in Zuma's address last night - he said that only 10% of the Top 100 companies on the JSE are directly owned by black South Africans. Is that a fair reflection?
OUTRO: That was Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF
President Jacob Zuma says radical economic transformation is among urgent tasks that need to be done and achieved. Zuma addressed thousands of supporters at a gathering organised by the ANC at Cape Town Grand parade known as the "people's assembly". Chris Mabuya reports....
The Economic Freedom Fighters members were once again carried out of the National Assembly by security officers last night. This is after the party disrupted the State of the Nation Address by more than an hour. They were demanding that President Jacob Zuma not be allowed to address the house after the Constitutional Court had found that the had breached his oath of office Joseph Mosia reports...
The management of Walter Sisulu University of technology has ordered a complete shut- down of the university's Mthatha campus in the Eastern Cape. This comes after an admissions building was set alight, allegedly by protesting students. Registration and other administrative processes came to an abrupt halt on Tuesday when students protested over registration issues. Mbasa Khwaza reports
- Asian shares were mixed on Thursday following a mild close in U.S. markets and with gold prices at three-month highs
- U.S. President Donald Trump has broken the ice with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a letter that said he looked forward to working with him to develop constructive relations, although the pair haven't spoken directly since Trump took office
- African mining hopes are distant from uncertain reality
OUTRO: That was Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela
(Jürgen/Jhb/econ/9/2/2017)
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a national minimum wage agreement of R20 an hour. The agreement will come into effect on May 2018. Ramaphosa made this announcement in Parliament yesterday. The Deputy President says that all stakeholders have signed the agreement except Cosatu... Meanwhile, the National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa, NUMSA, has expressed its disgust at the signing of this hourly rate deal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Spokesperson for the Union, Phakamile Hlubi
The Economic Freedom Fighters says President Jacob Zuma should not deliver the State of the Nation Address in Parliament today. Zalene Merrington reports...
President Jacob Zuma says he's looking forward to delivering his tenth State of The Nation Address in Parliament later today. The president hosted a high tea for the special guests he has invited at his official residence in Genadendal for a high tea. Among the invited guests were struggle veterans, people who have made a difference in their communities, and young leaders. President Zuma also handed over an award to Miriam Makeba posthumously conferred to her by Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports
President Jacob Zuma is expected to address an ANC rally at the Grand Parade in Cape Town shortly after delivering his State of the Nation Address in parliament. Thousands of party supporters are expected to gather in the afternoon in anticipation of Zuma's address during SONA. The rally is the first to run parallel to SONA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC national spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa
· It's SONA day, so all eyes will be on Parliament and the precinct around it. What can we expect and how will it affect the economy and markets? · Fast forward two weeks, we have the all-important budget speech in parliament. This is arguably the much more important one of the two speeches. What can we expect from that event? · It feels like so much of what is happening out there is outside of the control of ordinary citizens. What can we do? What is within our control? (I will talk about maximising tax free investment allowances before end Feb)
The DA's Chief Whip in parliament, John Steenhuisen, says they have been assured by the Speaker of Parliament, Baleka Mbete, that the SANDF soldiers to be deployed during the State of the Nation Address will not be based inside the National Assembly. This follows the announcement by the Presidency yesterday, that 441 SANDF members will be sent to parliament to maintain law and order. Steenhuisen met with Mbete yesterday to raise concerns over the issue...Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA's Chief Whip in parliament, John Steenhuisen
DA's Chief Whip John Steenhuisen say the employment of soldiers for the opening of parliament is unprecedented. Steenhuisen tells AMLive anchor Sakina Kamwendo that only 188 SANDF were deployed for the opening of parliament in 2016
Walter Sisulu University management and the student leadership met until late last night to try and resolve their differences over outstanding debt. Registration and other administration processes came to an abrupt halt at the University in Mthatha yesterday afternoon. This is after students prevented university workers from entering the premises, claiming that some students who have outstanding debt are required to pay 20 per cent deposit before they can be registered for this academic year. We are joined on the line by Walter Sisulu University spokesperson, Yonela Tukwayo, to talk more about this.......
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at the Asian Shares traded lower as cruide oil prices fall
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETFSA talks about the VIP lunch yesterday between government and business leaders on the side lines of the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, a set back in the Minimum Wage Agreement and SACCI Business Confidence Index released
Former Springbok captain and scrum-half, Joost van der Westhuizen hailed a true leader and champion for putting the spotlight on motor neuron disease. Joost founded the J9 Foundation to help those suffering from the disease. He died yesterday after battling the disease since 2011. Sakina Kamwendo speaks J9 foundation Marketing and Public relations officer, Claire Grobler
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana says his department is yet to identify a specific pesticide to deal with the recent armyworm outbreak. The worm has been positively identified in Gauteng, the North West and Limpopo. The pest is also reportedly causing havoc in Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia and Zambia. Phanuel Shuma has the details
The situation has returned to normal in Vuwani and surrounding villages outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo. This after some protesting residents called off the shut down of services after the provincial government acceded to their demand. They were calling for the MEC for cooperative governance Makoma Makhurupetja to withdraw all the services that were being rendered by the new LIM345 municipality as they do not want to fall under it. Community leaders say learners have also gone back to school this morning after they lost time for learning yesterday. Witness Tiva reports
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which are trading lower as global markets fall on policy uncertainty, Botswana's growth to double as commodity sales rebound and reviews the 1st day of the Mining Indaba.
South Africans will have to fork out up to 14 percent more for medical aid this year. Most open medical aid schemes will charge their members substantial increases because many more people checked into hospital last year, increasing medical inflation. It has also emerged that medical aid schemes have been detecting millions of rands in fraudulent transactions. Senior Reporter Angela Bolowana filed this report.
Journalists will only be allowed to work within a specific area, in Parliament, during Thursday's State of the Nation (SONA) address. This is according to the Parliamentary Press Gallery Association (PGA) which has expressed alarm at the decision. This comes after a recent pledge by the Secretary to Parliament, Gengezi Mgidlana, that there won't be any extra security measures for SONA.
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETFSA looks at key pointers from Minister Mosebenzi Zwane delivered the keynote address to open the Mining Indaba yesterday and US President Trump has signed many executive orders since his inauguration just over 2 weeks ago, one of these relate to relaxing some of the financial regulations that were introduced after the global financial crisis in 2008. What is some of the potential implication of this?
Former Springbok captain and scrum-half, Joost van der Westhuizen, has been hailed a true leader and champion for putting the spotlight on motor neuron disease. Joost founded the J9 Foundation to help those suffering from the disease. He died yesterday after battling the disease since 2011. This report by Simone Burke in Johannesburg
The late gospel star, Lundi Tyamara, will be buried today* (sunday) in his home town of Worcester in the Boland. 38-year-old Tyamara died last week after a long battle with stomach TB and a liver condition. Ondela Bacela reports
Parliament is soon set to either review or repeal almost 2000 pieces of legislation that were enacted during the apartheid-era. Last week, the Legal Services Unit of the institution submitted a report to the National Assembly Programming Committee related to progress made on apartheid-laws that could possibly be unconstitutional. The DA and ANC have welcomed the move. However, they differ on the approach to deal with the process. Abongwe Kobokana reports.
Former African Union Commission Chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, is making her presence felt ahead of the ANC's Elective Conference in December. She is considered a front runner together with Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa for the top position. Speaking at a church service in Carletonville in Gauteng on Sunday, Dlamini-Zuma said it was time for women in Africa to hold the top positions. Noma Bolani reports.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asia markets which are mixed with private survey shows china's services sector remains strong and looks ahead on what to expect from the 2017 State of the Nation Address
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETFSA the week on a positive note with the rand once again at very strong levels, especially against the US dollar, the Mining Indaba starts in Cape Town today. What is this all about and what can we expect to come from this week?
· One mining company that has been in the news a lot lately, for various reasons, is Kumba Iron Ore. I see on Friday its share price got knocked by 8%. What happened there?
Secretary to Parliament, Gengezi Mgidlana, says all plans are in place to host the State of the Nation Address next Thursday. He's also reassured the public that there will be no disruption or blackout of television footage during the event. Lulama Matya reports....
One of the four NGOs with the highest death rates of patients from the Life Esidimeni Centre, closed its ranks and gates to the media yesterday (Thursday). The Cullinan Care Rehabilitation Centre was listed in the report of the Health Ombudsman as one of four centres where 80% of the 94 patients died after being moved. The other centres were Takalani, Tshepong and the Hephzibah Centres. The Ombudsman Professor Malegapuru Makgoba, found that the 94 patients died of cold‚ hunger and thirst at the 27 NGOs. For every death in a hospital‚ there were 19 deaths at NGOs. Liela Magnus reports
Former President FW De Klerk says South Africa is on the wrong road constitutionally. He says since the ANC's conference in Polokwane in 2007, the government has trundled aimlessly down the road to societal decline. He says government is determined to accelerate the country's descent along the road to state capture, economic crisis and racial confrontation. He was speaking at the annual conference of the FW De Klerk Foundation to mark 27 years since his 1990 speech in which he announced the unbanning of political organisations and release of political prisoners. Joseph Mosia reports...
The City of Ekurhululeni says it is planning to introduce an occupation unit that is meant to deal with land invasions. This follows reports that between September and November 2016, the municipality has spent about 22-Million rands on land invaders. To get more clarity on how this land occupation unit will work, we are joined on the line by the city's Member of the Mayoral Committe, lesiba Mpya...
Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane says her first 100 days in office were bumpy, with an attempt to derail her work by certain people through misinformation. In a media briefing yestersday, The public protector also announce that she is considering an independent legal opinion on President Jacob Zuma's decision to take the "State of Capture" report on review. For more on this we spoke to Public Law Lecturer at the University of Cape Town Khomotso Moshikaro
Group CEO at Lehumo Investments Maudi Lentsoane looks Asian Markets which are mostly lower, Facebook shares up to a record high territories in after hours trade as Earnings Per Share and Revenue both Beats expectations and Britain's Brexit bill clears first legislative hurdle
The South African Social Security Agency, Sassa, says it will approach the Constitutional Court to suspend the declaration of current contract with Cash Paymaster Services for payment of social grants invalid for another year. This will allow the agency to continue paying grants after March. This, after Sassa could not find an alternative payment system in the time stipulated. The agency has told MPs that none of options it has looked at so far will resolve its problems by the end of March. Joseph Mosia reports.
Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu has resigned. This in the wake of a damning report that implicates her and several high ranking officials of her department with regard to the deaths of 94 psychiatric patients. Most of them died while kept at various NGO's across the province. The Health Ombudsman Professor Malegapuru Makgoba has handed over the report to national health minister Aron Motsoaledi. The report contains the findings and recommendations of the probe conducted late last year following the death of scores of psychiatric patients. Phanuel Shuma reports.
Nadir Thokan of 27 Four Investment Managers talks about the Federal Reserve's decision to keep interest rates on hold, the flurry of corporate bonds this year and China January PMI numbers that came out
Some African countries have spoken out against a draft African Union document that urges member states to collectively withdraw from the International Criminal Court. Last year South Africa, The Gambia and Burundi announced their intent to withdraw from the ICC. However Nigeria and other African states say they believe the court has an important role to play in holding leaders accountable. For a perspective on this we are now joined on the line by Frank Lekaba, Researcher at the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA) programme of the Human Sciences Research Council
Constitutional Law expert Professor Pier De Vos says he understands Advocate Gerrie Nel’s resignation from the National Prosecuting Authority, but joining a dubious organisation like Afriforum he does NOT understand. De Vos says AfriForum does NOT have any legal right to do private prosecutions. De Vos Speaks to AMlive anchor Sakina Kamwendo
The doctors treating 14-year old Siphamandla Choma who was left paralysed after he was allegedly beaten by his school principal in Middelburg, Mpumalanga say they cannot rule out the possibility that, he might have suffered more damaged during the assault. This has been a story that we have been following and some of you have asked to assist the family... Our reporter Sibongile Mkani- Mpolweni visited the family again yesterday to find out the kind of help they need and she now joins us on the line....
Nadir Thokan of 27Four investment managers talks about the trade balance numbers that came out yesterday and Apple has recorded a rebound in iPhone sales
Former top prosecutor Gerrie Nel starts work today (1st February) as head of AfriForum's Private Prosecutions Unit. Nel announced his resignation from the National Prosecuting Authority yesterday (31st January). He says his decision to leave the NPA after serving as a state prosecutor for 36 years was not an easy one to make. For more on this we are joined on the line by Gerrie Nel, newly apponted Head of Private Prosecution at AfriForum...
African Union leaders have chosen Chad's candidate as the next head of the AU commission. Chadian Foreign Minister Moussa Faki Mahamat beat Kenya's top diplomat Amina Mohamed. Outgoing commissioner, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, stayed in the job an extra six months after leaders failed to agree a candidate in July. We spoke to Professor at the Department of Political Science , University of Pretoria Dr Siphamandla Zondi
Striking UNISA workers affiliated to National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union expected back at work this morning after the union and the university management reached an agreement. Members have been on strike since last week demanding a 10 percent salary increase. The strike has affected hundreds of students nationwide. We spoke to UNISA spokesperson, Martin Ramotshela
We look into message we received from a listener in Limpopo who was raising the issue of non-delivery of textbooks at Sevengana Secondary School in the Mopani district, Limpopo. We spoke to Dr Naledzani Rasila spokesperson for the Limpopo Department of Education....
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan filed court documents at the High Court in Pretoria where in he accuses the Gupta brothers of carrying out what he calls an organised campaign against him and the Treasury. In the affidavit Gordhan denies that he had a vendetta against the Guptas as claimed. The Guptas had earlier accused Gordhan of planning to diminish their business. Looking at the latest developments, we spoke to Lawson Naidoo, Executive Secretary at the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution on what image this projects...
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks MSCI AC Asia Pacific down 0.55% lower, following a Sell Off in US Markets and Bank of Japan leaves interest rates unchanged and maintains stimulus.
Nadir Thokan of 27 Four Investment Managers looks at the political uncertainty in the global financial markets and US about the flurry over corporate bond insurances this year.
In the first week of Donald Trump's presidency, his administration has been marked by a flurry of executive actions. On Friday, Trump signed an executive order halting the entire US refugee programme. He also instituted a 90-day travel ban for nationals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen among other things. However, a US judge issued a temporary halt to the deportation of visa holders or refugees stranded at airports following the executive order. It is estimated that between 100 and 200 people are being detained at airports or in transit. Thousands of people have been protesting at US airports over Trump's clampdown on immigration. We are now joined on the line by former US diplomat and associate editor of The Daily Maverick Brooks Spector
Mpumalanga residents continue to invade unoccupied land. The latest incident is when a large contigent of police dispersed a group of residents who were attempting to invaded land at Hillsview outside White River over the weekend. The residents claim that government has failed to build them low cost houses on the vacant land for over ten years. Vusi Twala reports.
Parliament's Police Portfolio Committee does not have powers to remove suspended National Police Commissioner Riya Phiyega from office. That's according to the chairperson of the committee Francois Beukman. This comes after DA Member of the Police Committee Zak Mbhele said he would write to Beukman to request that the committee push for the removal of Phiyega from office. Beukman says it is not possible... Our Parliamentary reporter Mercede Besent reports
Nadir Thokan Investment Strategist at 27Four Investment managers Nadir Thokan looks at inflation in South African and the opportunities within global equities.
Management of Gospel singer Lundi Tyamara has confirmed that he has died at the age of 38 after fighting for his life in hospital. Tyamara has been in a Johannesburg hospital since October the 27th last year. He was diagnosed with stomach TB and liver problems. Tyamara started his solo career in 1998. His ground breaking hits saw him winning at the SAMA Awards, KORA Awards and the Crown Gospel Music Awards. We now joined on the line by Manager and Music promoter and one of the people who worked very closely with Lundi Tyamara...Anele Hlazo and Tshepo Nzimande
Organisers of the South African politicians awards say the event will go ahead despite a boycott by some political parties that were invited to participate. The organisers say the awards, to be held in February, are designed to rebuild the image of politics and inspire young people to become politicians. We spoke to project director for the awards Veronica Modieleng...
The Black Business Council (BBC) is opposing the signing of the Financial Intelligence Centre Amendment (Fica) Bill that it will criminalize business people. The council together with the Progressive Professionals Forum (PPF) want President Zuma to re-look at the Bill as they say it will give banks too much power. We spoke to the President of BBC, Danisa Baloyi and Managing Director of the Banking Association of South Africa, Cas Coovadia...
Animal rights activists say they have noted an increase in donkey poaching, where some of the animals are killed in a very cruel manner. It is believed that donkey trade is big business and the demand has spiked in China for medicinal purposes.We spoke to inspector at the Highveld Horse Care Unit Ashley Ness
Market Analyst, Mohammed Nalla looks at South African markets as Dow Jones Industrial index tops 20000 for the first time, Trump's Mexican wall doesn't stop Mexican peso from climbing as EM FX and continues rally and SA PPI due today but food inflation risks remain...
The SA Democratic Teachers Union in Limpopo says there will be a total shutdown of schools as they march to the provincial education department, the treasury and premier Stanley Mathabatha's office on Tursday. The union says it demands, among other things, that textbooks and stationery be delivered to all schools and the payment of salaries owed to teachers and principals. We spoke to deputy secretary of Sadtu in Limpopo, Sowell Tjebane...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets as shares advance after Dow hits 20, 000, S&P says South Africa needs to deliver growth, fiscal improvements and chicken Fight Rocks South Africa’s Trade Relations With Europe...
The community of Ntlezi at Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape has refuted claims that it instituted a Kangaroo court that allegedly sentenced two young boys to death. The boys were allegedly forced to choose between stabbing each other to death or hanging. They were accused of killing an elderly person in the village, an incident that triggered a wave of violence. Nkululeko Nyembezi compiled this report..
The ANC Youth League has hit out at Deputy President Cyril Ramapahosa and Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan. It accuses the two of working with private business to collapse SAA. This came out at the league's media briefing on the sidelines of the ANC NEC Lekgotla in Pretoria yesterday. Ahead of the ANC's National Elective Conference the League says it will only support leaders with the courage to collapse what it calls white monopoly capital - saying it wants SAA to be moved from the National treasury to the Department of Public Enterprises. Ntebo Mokobo has more...
Markets Analyst Mohammed Nalla looks at South Africa markets as Trump effects wanes as US equity markets continue to slide, exiting TPP deal sees dollar weaker supporting commodities in the short term and local political risk premium masked by global developments but belies unease in markets...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Markets and the week ahead as the Chinese new year nears
Small businesses will now be better empowered by government when it comes to procurement. This after the Preferential Procurement Regulations of 2011 was revised. The Department of National Treasury has released the revised preferential procurement regulations of 2017. We spoke to Acting Chief Procurement Officer at National Treasury, Schalk Human.
The perception of public sector corruption in South Africa has improved. This is according to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index compiled by Transparency International. South Africa's score has improved from 44 in 2015 to 45 in 2016. It is ranked 64th out of 176 countries that were reviewed. We spoke to Executive Director of Corruption Watch, David Lewis
The family of a 14-year-old boy who was allegedly assaulted by his principal at Manyano Primary School in Middelburg, Mpumalanga says it plans to sue the department of education. Siphamandla Choma was allegedly beaten up by the school principal after he was accused of stealing R150, leaving him paralysed. The principal has been suspended following an investigation by the department. We spoke to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Leonard Hlathi and our reporter Sibongile Mkani-Mpolweni
Dr. Nkosozana Dlamini- Zuma is stepping down as the chairperson of the African Union Commission, after serving four and a half years. Her position is among those, which will be hotly contested during the African Union commission elections due at the end of this month. Sarah Kimani takes a look at her legacy and those in the running to succeed her.
Congregants of the St Martin Lutheran church in Kimberley in the Northern Cape have taken to the streets in a march against the embezzlement of church funds. Over one hundred church members marched in the rain to stop what they call the victimization of whistle blowers in the church. The missing church funds are linked to the 40-million-rand that the national office of the church cannot account for. Congregants showed their support for the local pastor who they claim is being victimized. Lerato Segalo reports..
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Markets as they hover in the negative and the dollar weakening due to uncertainty in US economy, Trump expected to cut 75% of regulations for easier access to business and tourism numbers in South Africa reach highs last seen 9 years ago in the festive season...
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has paid 1.3 billion rand in registration fees to universities on behalf of deserving students. The organisation says 78-thousand new students have been approved to study this year and they are expecting to fund over 450-thousand students in total. Angela Bolowana reports...
The South African Union of Students (SAUS) has threatened to shut down the University of Pretoria after the university asked students with pending criminal cases to motivate why they should be allowed to re-register for the 2017 academic year. A number of students were arrested at the university last year during violent fees must fall protests. We are now joined on the line by SAUS general secretary Sthembiso Ndlovu together with University of Pretoria's spokesperson, Candice Jooste...
The Principal of Manyano Primary School at Mhluzi township of Middelburg in Mpumalanga, accused of assaulting 14 year-old Siphamandla Choma leaving him wheelchair bound, has been suspended. This follows an investigation conducted by the provincial department of Education on the alleged assault of the learner whom he accused of stealing 150 Rand. Spokesperson Jasper Zwane says this seeks to send a strong message to teachers who continue to apply corporal punishment at schools. He says a full report on the investigation will be released later this week. Abongile Dumako reports...
AB InBev Africa and SAB seem to be backing down from the perpetual commitment they made when they merged last year. One of the conditions of the merger was an undertaking by AB InBev that this merger will not result in any retrenchments in South Africa. AB InBev Africa and SAB have confirmed that a voluntary severance process has been instituted. The Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU), had previously threatened a mass action across the country should there be any voluntary severance packages introduced. The General Secretary of FAWU joins us on the line now to react to this.
The Economic Freedom Fighters says it is now looking at alternatives to try and find a way to save the Public Protectors office. The party says advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane is only interested in protecting the interests of the state. Mkhwebane took over the Public Protector's office in November last year, after Thuli Madonsela served for 7 years. The party announced this during it's media briefing where it outlined the EFF's 3 day plenum, where it adopted the part's year long program. Mbali Sibanyoni reports….
Statistician General Pali Lehohla has told the Fees Commission that free higher education is possible with proper planning. In his presentation, Lehohla told the commission that problems facing the education system had a historical background and that apartheid was to blame. Lehohla says the Bantu education system, coupled with economic deprivation makes it difficult for the majority of black people to finance their children to study further. Neo Makwiting reports.
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) says it is concerned about some statements made by Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi regarding the uptake of posts by doctors. Last week the health minister held a briefing to address the issue of unemployed doctors and interns, following complaints by the Junior Doctors Association and the Pharmaceutical Society group. During the briefing Motsoaledi said new graduates wanted to be placed at locations convenient for their personal circumstances. For more on this we are joined on the line by the Vice-Chairperson of the South African Medical Association Professor Mark Sonderup
The National Union of Mineworkers, NUM says it will meet with AngloGold Ashanti today (Monday) to discuss the mining giant's plans to shed jobs. Ashanti Gold has notified the union of its plans to dismiss over 800 workers. For more on this we are joined on the line by National Union of Mineworkers spokesperson Livhuwani Mammburu
The SACP in the North West says the ANC is not a one-family or clan organisation. This is according to the SACP provincial secretary Madoda Sambatha. The SACP has also warned that the presidency of the ANC must not be decided based on gender. This is the opposite to the position of the ANC Women's League, which says Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma must lead the party after its 54th congress in December. The ANC alliance partners have also warned the ANC against self destruction as a result of infighting for positions. Itumeleng Kgajane reports…….
A 14-year-old boy from Mhluzi township in Middelburg in Mpumalanga is now paralyzed after allegedly being assaulted by his school principal for stealing R150. Siphamandla Choma can't walk or do anything for himself as he is now wheelchair bound. The Grade 4 learner has not been at school since the incident happened last year. He told SABC News that Manyano Primary School principal allegedly assaulted him and his friend because he believed they had stolen the money which belonged to a teacher at the school. Our reporter Abongile Dumako has the details while Mpumalanga department of Education, Jasper Zwane tell us more about why the principal is still in school going about his daily business
Mohammed Nalla, Head of Strategic Research team at Nedbank CIB looks at how the inauguration of Donald Trump as US president affected markets, Rand stronger as dollar weakens in Asian trade and focus this week on the South African Reserve Bank on Monetary Policy Committee this week which is expected to keep the rates unchanged.
US President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated as the 45th president of the United States today. Trump's spokesperson Sean Spicer says the inaugural address will be a personal and philosophical one that lays out how he sees America, rather than push his agenda as president. As per tradition, after taking the oath of office on Friday at noon Trump will deliver his speech outdoors from a stage at the foot of the west side of the Capitol building to a large crowd spilling out over the National Mall. We are now joined on the line by our correspondent in Washington Sherwin Bryce Pease
The new Gambian president Adama Barrow has been sworn in to office away from home in Senegal. The incumbent Yahya Jammeh refuses to go despite threat of military intervention. Barrow won an election last year December. Meanwhile Human Rights Watch has condemmed Jammeh for declaring state of emergency in the Gambia. For more we're now joined on the line by the Human Rights Watch West Africa researcher, West Africa researcher,
Acting national police commissioner, Khomotso Phahlane is threatening to sue the Independent Police Investigative Directorate after a raid on his home in an estate north of Pretoria. He accuses the police watchdog of humiliating him by tipping off the media about yesterday's raid. In a statement, the Acting National Commissioner says he will continue to respect and fully cooperate with any authority competent to conduct investigations in accordance with the laws of the country. We caught up with the Acting National Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane for more details...
Last year on the ForumAt8 we aired the horrific story of more than 3 000 under-age girls who fell pregnant at Ratlou municipality in the North West Province. Some of the girls were as young as 12 years old at the time. We spoke to the Deputy Minister of social development Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu who indicated that she was in the process of opening cases against the perpetrators
Donald Trump is to be inaugurated as the 45th president of the United States of America tomorrow (Friday). But amid controversy around his legitimacy as the next president, a growing number of people have vowed to boycott his inauguration. Democratic lawmakers, celebrities and musicians are among those who have announced they will skip the event. To look at what we can expect on the day, we speak to an economist from Bizfarm,Atul Padakar.
Power utility Eskom says it will continue to cut electricity to municipalities in the North West with outstanding debts. Eskom will cut power daily between six and eight in the morning and five and half past seven in the evening. Only three municipalities in the province 0 Ditsobotla, Mamusa and Tlokwe-Ventersdorp 405 - have settled their debts. Naledi, Kgetlheng River and Lekwa-Teemane municipalities face electricity cuts. Moitsi Masibi reports
The Ad Hoc Committee probing the SABC affairs resumes this morning to start deliberation of its draft document. The Committee is also expected to decide on whether to accede to the UDM's request to invite Hlaudi Motsoeneng to testify during the inquiry. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics looks at both the December CPI and November retail sales data released yesterday and the European Central Bank's decision on interest rates and monetary policy is the main global event for today.
Government will work with provinces and municipalities to help them deal with their unpaid Eskom accounts. This is according to Tsakani Baloyi, the Spokesperson for the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. In a statement, the Department says they despite numerous interventions, some municipalities continue to default from an agreement they entered into with Eskom. The Minister has also urged Municipalities to always service their bulk accounts so that don't prejudice those who are paying for their services. Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Des van Rooyen joins us for more details on this...
The 39 year old man accused of raping a 12 year old girl from Port Elizabeth, has been granted a two thousand rands bail by the Motherwell Magistrate's Court. It's alleged that the suspect sexually abused the victim twice last year and this was discovered when the victim fell pregnant. During the bail application the accused said the complainant allegedly seduced him in May last year and they have been having an affair ever since. Olwethu Sota reports...
Higher Education and Training department is clamping down on unregistered colleges. About 60 bogus schools have so far been shut down, within the past five years. The Department in conjunction with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) have collaborated with the National Taxi Association to help them spread the word on colleges that are operating illegally. The latest incident was of a college that was found operating without accreditation by the Department, on Monday. The Director: Registration of Private Higher education at the Department of Higher Education and Training, Dr Shaheeda Essack, joins us on the line to tell us more.
Former SABC Board Chairperson Ellen Tshabalala has asked that her deadline for a written submission to the parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee should be extended. Her submission relates to allegations she made about political interference in the affairs of the SABC from three political parties. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports that the Committee Members have also received the first working document which is expected to be discussed on Thursday to produce a draft report
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at Asian markets largely higher this morning, Emerging-Market Currencies Rise Amid US president Elect Donald Trump's Remarks on the Dollar and the pound staged a recovery following Theresa May's speech.
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Research at ETM Analytics talks about UK Prime Minister Therese May's speech in which she confirmed that the country plans on executing a 'hard Brexit' strategy and the domestic consumptive dynamics as retail sales for November as well as CPI data for December are scheduled for release today
The family of Reshall Jimmy, who was killed in a Ford Kuga 1.6 when it went up in flames, say they still intend to take action against Ford. This follows Ford's recall of over four-thousand-500 of the vehicles yesterday*. Jimmy's car was one of close to 50 of the models that have caught fire in South Africa. Ford South Africa CEO Jeff Nemeth says his death cannot be linked to the mechanical faults of the car as long as the case is still being investigated. A Jimmy family member, who didn't want to be named, says they're not satisfied with Ford's actions, as the problem had already been detected in the US several years ago: We caught up with Kaveen Jimmy, brother of Reshall Jimmy, together with Cecilia Andrews, Faculty head at the Tripple A School of Advertising
Rating agency Moody's agreed to pay a massive R11.7 billion ($864m) in penalty for the US 2008 financial crisis. The US Justice Department accused the agency of inflating ratings on mortgage securities that were at the centre of the 2008 financial crisis. To discuss the implication of this penalty we're now joined on the line by chief economist at Econometrix, Dr Azar Jammine
Maudi Lentsoane Group CEO of Lehumo Investments looks the Asian Markets, What Theresa May's Brexit strategy might be and how it would affect the markets and China's Oil Collapse Is Unintentionally Helping OPEC
The Hawks have confirmed that two suspected terrorists were recently prevented from entering South Africa in separate incidents. Police say a suspected terrorist planning attacks against United States interests in South Africa travelling from the US via Turkey was arrested at OR Tambo International airport. In another incident, it is reported that an Iraqi man working for Islamic State terrorist group tried to fly out of Turkey to South Africa but was arrested. To Discuss this further we are now joined the line by Senior Researcher for the Trans National Threats and International Crime Division at Institutes for Security Studies Martin Ewi
Gift of the Givers Foundation says it is an insult to them and to South Africa that a South African photojournalist, Shiraaz Mohamed, was abducted in Syria. Mohamed was in Syria as part of the Foundations' rescue team members, to take pictures of what is happening in the country. Gift of the Givers has for the past four years, been giving humanitarian assistance of about 150 million rand to the people of Syria. Its founder, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman joins us on the line to tell us more.
ANC Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the divisions among the ANC top leadership are based on personal and financial interests that influence the political will to change the lives of the people of South Africa. Ramaphosa was addressing thousands of ANC members at Walter Sisulu University stadium in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi has filed this report…
President Jacob Zuma has condemned the tendency of discussing leadership succession before the period is opened, including leaders whom he says are obsessed with positions. President Zuma was addressing thousands of ANC supporters gathered in KwaDukuza during the party's 105 year celebration. ANC Treasurer General Zweli Mkhize and some NEC members including Malusi Gigaba, Nathi Mthethwa, Syabonga Cwele and former KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu attended the provincial celebration. Vusi Makhosini reports...
Tributes from the entertainment industry keep pouring following the passing of iconic jazz musician Thandi Klaasen this morning. She died at a hospital in Vosloorus east of Johannesburg after losing her battle to pancreatic cancer. Klaasen's musical career span over five decades, her best songs include "Sophia Town". Neliswa Mavundla reports...
Several municipalities in the country are expected to be without electricity as from today (Monday) if power utility Eskom has its way. Seven municipalities in the Free State will experience daily power cuts. Defaulting municipalities in the Northern Cape, Mpumalanga, North West and the Eastern Cape will also be affected. Eskom says that it is owed 2 billion rand by these municipalities. Thabiso Radebe reports. In addition we also spoke to the the National Programme Director of Municipal Audit Support at the South African Local Government Association - SALGA- Mohammed Lorgat...
Maudi Lentsoane, group CEO at Lehumo Investments looks at the Asian Markets which start the day on a negative and the pound under severe pressure. Catch Maudi on #AMLive looking at everthing Asian Markets with Sakina Kamwendo
A leading South African motor expert says Ford Kuga drivers should take their cars to Ford dealers immediately for check-ups before panicking and re-selling their cars. Steve Smith editor of Car Magazine says not all Ford Kuga's are faulty and those driving the one-point-six litre sold between 2013 and 2014 are the most at risk. Kuga drivers wanting to re-sell their cars have vented their anger on social media. More than 40 Ford Kuga's have caught fire since 2011. Amina Accram reports...
Harmony Gold says its attempts to persuade about one-thousand-700 mineworkers employees participating in an underground sit-in to return to surface have so far been unsuccessful. The sit-in began on Wednesday when miners at Kusasalethu Mine in Carltonville on Gauteng's West Rand failed to return to the surface at the end of the morning shift. The mine says it has now received formal demands from the striking workers. President of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), Joseph Mathunjwa, says workers are protesting over unpaid bonuses. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Investor Relations Executive Marian van der Walt
The case of a Cape Town woman who alleges that her boss disclosed her HIV status to colleagues without her permission has been referred for arbitration. The matter was heard at the CCMA yesterday. The 36-year-old woman, who cannot be identified, works as a cleaner at Groote Schuur Hospital. Ondela Bacela reports..
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela at the Asian markets struggle as Chinese data shows signs of lower economic activity and will South Africa survive possible ratings agencies downgrades in the 1st quarter of 2017?
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Advisor at ETFSA talks about the Manufacturing data, ever heard of King Rand! What is driving this sudden strength in the currency
The Department of Military Veterans says it will be clamping down on those fraudulently benefiting from its educational support scheme. The department says it will conduct a forensic audit to ensure that it eliminates fraud and deals with those responsible. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Department of Military Veterans Acting Director General, Max Ozinsky, for more information.
Learning and teaching in Limpopo has been confronted with a challenge of the unavailability of stationery at affected schools throughout the province. The non-delivery of books has prompted a furor from education unions and some political parties. The provincial Education department says this was largely caused by the late appointment of a stationery distribution service provider. Katlego Nyoni reports....
Condolences are pouring in following the death of four school children in an accident involving a bus and a taxi at Ntuzuma north of Durban in KwaZulu Natal. The children were on their way to school for the first day of the academic year when the accident occurred. All the other children in the taxi were injured. One is in a critical condition in hospital. Fanele Mhlongo reports.....
The Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) has approached the South African Human Rights Commission to investigate a series of attacks against mosques. In one incident a pig's snout was left on an entrance gate to a mosque in Simon's Town and in a second incident, blood was found splashed on the walls of a Mosque in Kalk Bay. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Deputy President of the Muslim Judicial Council, Moulana Alie, about this development.
A meeting between Black First Land First (BLF) and the office of the Public Protector is expected to take place this morning (thursday 12 January). The Leader of BLF, Andile Mngxitama, has confirmed that the Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane will be meeting with his organisation to discuss issues they raised with the previous public protector, Thuli Madonsela, but which had not been dealt with by the time she left office. Andile Mngxitama joins us on the line to tell us more.
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Advisor at ETFSA looks at the SACCI Business Confidence Index for December was released yesterday, virtually unchanged from the previous reading, what are the latest forecasts for economic growth released by the World Bank this week and the World Bank sees the US as resuming its role as the leading global engine of growth.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at the Asian markets which are mostly high with Japan slightly under as the Yen's strength compromises exports, Nigeria's blue-collar oil union began a three-day warning strike to protest job cuts at oil companies including local units of Chevron and Exxon Mobil and South Africa's business confidence steady in December
The ANC stalwarts say they will now hold further discussions with the party's top 6 to press for an early consultative conference. Last year, it was resolved that it would take place two days before the party holds its policy conference in June, but the veterans say this will be too late. Mbali Sibanyoni Reports…
Schools across the country re-open for the new academic year this morning. We now go to Limpopo where we speak to our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase, who is in Tshivhilwi Village, one of the areas that were badly affected by recent flash floods outside Thohoyandou. We also speak to our reporter Reginald Witbooi at the Calvinia High School in the Namaqua District in the Northern Cape, which is the best performing district in the province. In addition we also catch up with the Eastern cape through our reporter in Mthatha Fundiswa Mhlekude and our reporter in Mpumalanga, Abongile Dumako. We also touched based with Basic Education spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga...
The Communications Committee in Parliament says it is confident that the recommended names of persons to serve on the Interim SABC Board will be ready before the National Assembly sittings resume in February. The SABC says the acting executive positions of the CFO, COO and CEO were extended in December just before the delegation of authority for those positions expired. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports..........
Learners around the Vhembe district in Limpopo are starting the 2017 school calendar in a low mood as their stationery and school uniform were damaged in recent floods. Houses at Magidi, Thohoyandou block G extension and F were flooded by heavy rains during the week. Furniture, clothe and house hold equipment were all destroyed. A recently constructed bridge at Luvhimbi village was also washed away. Rudzani Tshivhase reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Advisor at ETF South Africa, looks at the impact of the African Growth and Opportunity Act on chicken farmers in SA, as imports from the US resumed last year and Apple iPhone is celebrating its 10th birthday this week.
The Communications Committee in Parliament says it is confident that the recommended names of persons to serve on the Interim SABC Board will be ready before the National Assembly sittings resume in February. The SABC says the acting executive positions of the CFO, COO and CEO were extended in December just before the delegation of authority for those positions expired. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
The ANC stalwarts say they will now hold further discussions with the party's top 6 to press for an early consultative conference. Last year, it was resolved that it would take place two days before the party holds its policy conference in June, but the veterans say this will be too late. Mbali Sibanyoni Reports
58 thousand pupils still need to be placed in schools across Gauteng. Schools in the province re-open for the new academic year tomorrow. The Gauteng Education Department says a lack of schools is one of the reasons for learners in grades one to eight not being placed in schools. Sakiana Kamwendo speaks to Gauteng Department of Education's Acting Chief Director of Communications, Oupa Bodibe,
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at tough start to the year for Asian markets remain mixes this morning despite positive reports from Samsung, U.S economy could be the key to reversing a weak 2016 growth, with interest rates hike cycle and FAWU cries foul on chicken imports compromising the industry, as export taxes remain high
The young man whose mother was killed in a stampede at the University of Johannesburg whilst in the late application queue has told of his trauma five years on. The incident not only sparked change in the registration process at major universities, but it also highlighted the scramble for space at the country's tertiary institutions. Nomsa Mdhluli reports.
Foreign shop owners near Kuruman in the Northern Cape say they have lost over 10-million-rand in stock after community members looted and torched shops in the area. An angry mob attacked over 50 foreigners and looted 26 shops. The attacks come after community members accused a foreign shop owner of fatally stabbing a 16-year-old boy, who he allegedly accused of stealing his meat. Neo Bodumela compiled this report
Some residents of Musina in Llimpopo are accusing certain officials at the local municipality of being involved in allocating RDP houses improperly. The beneficiaries were allocated RDP houses on the municipal list, only to learn that other people who were not on the list have occupied their houses. Others have opened cases of fraud with the police. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Advisor at ETF South Africa looks at National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) reported on vehicle sales for 2016, as it declined for the third year in a row oil price fell quite a bit and the rand strengthened and a major contributor to inflation last year were rising food prices caused by the severe drought.
Thousands of matriculants who have passed with bachelor's exemption could be rejected as most universities report that they are already full. Some of the universities say they have seen an increase in applications for undergraduate places this year. We spoke to Yonela Tukwayo, who is spokesperson for Walter Sisulu University...
About 3-thousand workers will be out of jobs from the end of the month in the chicken industry. The Food and Allied Workers Union (Fawu), has called the country's chicken producers victims of trade arrangement between our government and the European Union. Chicken producers Country Bird, is earmarking to retrench 1500 workers, while RCL Foods which used to be Rainbow Chicken, has actually started the process of retrenching 1 250 of its workers. We spoke to the General Secretary of FAWU, Katishi Masemola...
Market analyst, Nerina Visser of ETF South Africa looks at South African markets as major political events and their far-reaching consequences, equity market has surging ahead since Donald Trump was elected as the 45th US president in November and Trump's policies expected to have a major impact on global trade relations...
Traffic authorities in Mpumalanga have urged motorists to drive with caution, as rain continues to fall in various parts of the country. They say provincial roads are expected to be busy again before the schools re-open this week. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports....
Communities in Transkei in the Eastern Cape must brace themselves for more severe weather conditions this week. The South African Weather Service issued the warning after another violent storm hit the King Sabatha Dalindyebo municipality last week. Fundiswa Mhlekude looks at the prevalence of destructive weather patterns in the region...
EFF leader Julius Malema has described Durban University of Technology student Bonginkosi Khanyile as a hero. Malema visited Khanyile at Westville Prison in Durban. He was arrested in September last year during the Fees Must Fall student protests. Khanyile, who is the only student still behind bars, has been denied bail several times. Fanele Mhlongo reports
ANC members have been urged to humble themselves and serve people with respect and dignity. That's a message from the party President, Jacob Zuma at the governing party's 105th birthday celebrations at Orlando Stadium in Soweto yesterday. The ANC is still recovering from a devastating performance during the 2016 local elections. The party's poor performance is attributed to perceived arrogance and lack of responsiveness from ANC deployees in government. Ntebo Mokobo reports.
The ANC's 2017 January statement has received thumbs up from the party's alliance partners SACP, SANCO and Cosatu. President Jacob Zuma delivered the speech at Orlando stadium in Soweto yesterday. The statement focused on unity and cohesion within the alliance. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
A survey conducted by the South African Federation for Mental Health has revealed that most psychiatric patients have been turned away from primary healthcare clinics without at least one of their medications because of drug shortages. The organisation says that these shortages threaten patients with relapse, loss of employment and social isolation. But just how bad is the situation and why do we know so little about it? We spoke to Charlene Sunkel, Programme Manager in Advocacy and Development at the SA Federation for Mental Health...
One of the survivors in the fatal drag racing incident that involved Hip hop singer Molemo "Jub Jub" Maarohanye - says he has forgiven the hip hop star and his accomplice,Themba Tshabalala. Correctional Services has granted both Maarohanye and Tshabalala parole. The two had served four years in prison. They were found guilty of killing four learners and leaving two others permanently brain-damaged. Maarohanye and Tshabalala crashed their cars into a group of learners during a drag racing in Soweto in 2010. Pearl Magubane and Neliswa Mavundla filed this report....
That buzz word in the African National Congress is "unity" as the party heads for its January 8th celebrations. Last year, we saw many of the party's officials and veterans calling for unity within the party and a way in which it can deal with its internal problems. What can we expect at this year's celebrations? We spoke to ANC Treasurer General, Dr. Zweli Mkhize
Police have confirmed that the device that exploded and badly injured a 54-year-old woman at Gumbu village near the Madimbo military base outside Musina in Limpopo, is a military device. Matodzi Khorommbi is in a serious condition at the Mankweng hospital outside Polokwane. The device exploded while she was tilling the land at her homestead on Wednesday. Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo has called on community members not to touch any suspicious looking devices but rather report them to the local police. Rudzani Tshivhase reports....
The Higher Education Transformation Network (HETN) has added its voice to assessments of the 2016 Matric results. HETN says the Independent Examination Board's 98.67% pass rate is because of the support given to learners from wealthier backgrounds. They have also raised concerns about what they call a fee announcement by various Universities without any emphasis of internal cost-saving measures they plan to implement to avoid more fee increases in 2018. We spoke to Director for Media Liaison at the Higher Education Transformation Network, Ramafala Ramatshosa...
Currencies prices in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, have been rigged. This revelation emerged after a former currency trader at Barclays, Jason Katz, admitted in court that between 2007 and 2013 he took part in manipulating foreign-exchange rates in the U.S. To find out how currency manipulation works, we spoke to Professor Johan Marx from UNISA's Department of Finance, Risk Management and Banking.....
The Automobile Association has predicted another roller-coaster year when it comes to the petrol price. The AA has highlighted the factors that contributed to price increases in 2016, warning that more hikes are on the cards this year. We spoke to Layton Beard, Spokesperson for the Automobile Association....
Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges in South Africa could face a shutdown this year, similar to that which affected universities in 2016. This is if the threat by the South African Further Education and Training Student Association (SAFETSA) is implemented. The resolution could affect all 50 institutions, as Esona Funeka reports.
2017 might turn out to be a tough year for retailers because real retail sales growth is expected to under-perform economic growth. We spoke to FNB's Household and Property Sector Strategist, John Loos..
Education lobby group Equal Education says too much emphasis is being given to matric results at the expense of early learning. They feel that government is not paying enough attention to primary-level education. But what are they basing this observation on? We spoke to Equal Education's Leanne Jansen-Thomas
The ANC Youth League in KwaDukuza in KwaZulu-Natal is calling for the renaming of beaches in their region after a number of racial incidents they say took place at those beaches. They are complaining about new search measures that have been implemented for beachgoers. The league says the measures which were implemented by the Blythedale Beach Residents and Ratepayers Association, seem to be targeting young black beach-goers. We spoke to Musa Zondi, ANC Youth League Regional Secretary for the Greater KwaDukuza region...
Eastern Cape authorities have reported a decline in the number of deaths of initiates during the 2016 summer initiation period compared to that of 2015. Just under 30 young men have lost their lives, compared to 46 in the previous year. Yanga Funani has more
The ANC says it will use it's upcoming 105th celebration to reclaim lost ground. The celebrations are to be held at the Orlando stadium in Soweto on Sunday. The governing party's lost several key municipalities in Gauteng such as Tshwane, Johannesburg and Mogale City, to the Democratic Alliance in the local government elections last year. The ANC also lost overall voter support across the country, dropping from sixty two percent to fifty four percent between 2014 and 2016 in the national and local government elections respectively. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced that the Matric class of 2016 achieved a 72-point-five per-cent overall pass rate. That's a one-point-eight per cent improvement from 2015's 70-point-seven per cent. The Free State is the best performing province with a record-breaking 93-point-two per cent. The Western Cape and Gauteng are second and third, respectively. Wisani Makhubele has more
Education experts predict more student protests in the 2017 academic year. Academic, Professor Brian O'Connell, says the promise of free education has lingered in the minds of students around the country and they are unlikely to back down until this promise is fulfilled. 2016 has been a year filled with upheaval on the education front in the Western Cape with the "FeesMustFall' protests at educational institutions. Lynne Arendse takes a look at the demands of students, damages, prosecutions and expectations for this year
Cape Town firefighters struggled through the night to control blazing fire that broke out earlier in the day in Somerset West. Authorities say at least two houses have been gutted by the flames fanned by strong winds. Thandiswa Mawu reports
AfriBusiness and Afriforum want Eskom to stop cutting electricity to municipalities that have not paid their electricity bills. The two groups believe Eskom should have other ways of dealing with defaulters. Some of the municipalities who have been issued with notices of disconnection include, Mbombela, Chief Albert Luthuli, Ventersdorp and Nala municipalities. We spoke to Afribusiness National Spokesperson, Stefan Pieterse and Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe....
First National Bank (FNB) has experienced yet another heist. This time about R 1.7 million was stolen from a branch in Parktown in Johannesburg. Last month, clients' valuables were stolen from safety deposit boxes at a branch in Randburg. We spoke to Advocate Clive Pillay, who is the Ombudsman for banking services for more on liability regarding security of safety boxes...
Experts in the education sector say that only 4 out of every ten students who matriculated in 2016 and don't study further, will find employment. The other six they say, will simply become a part of South Africa's already grim youth unemployment statistic of almost 50%. How then do we turn this around? We spoke to Tammy Chetty from Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator...
The Department of Education in the Free-State is optimistic about the matric results for 2016. In 2013, the province managed to achieve the number one spot with an 87-point-four per cent pass rate. In 2014, the province came second after Gauteng and in 2015, it fell to third place after the Western Cape and Gauteng. Free State Education spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, says the province will be aiming for the number one spot again for the class of 2016. Aphumelele Mdlalane reports
A violent storm that swept across parts of the Eastern Cape has claimed the life of one person at Mqanduli in the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality. More than 70 people sustained injuries, with many hit by bricks and flying corrugated iron sheets. As Mbasa Kwaza reports, schools and churches have not been spared
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga will announce the 2016 matric results in Midrand, north of Johannesburg at 6pm this evening. More than 800-thousand learners, full-time and part-time candidates wrote last year's Grade 12 exams. The Department of Basic Education is hoping for an improvement. The 2015 results dropped by five-percent to 70-point-7 percent, from 75-point-8 percent in 2014. Wisani Makhubele has more
Residents of Dooringlaagte outside Zeerust in the North West, say the government is yet to fulfil its promise of building them houses. Many of them come from the farms and have been staying in mud houses and dilapidated shacks for almost twenty years.Government says the transfer of land from the Rural Development department to the Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality is delaying the process of building houses for the community here. Sisi Segalo visited the area and compiled the following report
The ANC has called for the confiscation of all official and diplomatic passports from officials who are found to be willfully undermining South Africa's foreign policy. The ruling party has condemned the mayor of Tshwane, Solly Msimanga, for his visit to Taiwan. We spoke to Zizi Kodwa, ANC National spokesperson and DA spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Stevens Makgolopa...
There is a very special class and teacher in the Langkloof in the Eastern Cape. An eleven year old teaches pupils - six times her age - to read and write. There is a magic between her and the eager learners, and she inspires them to be the best they can be. Veronica Fourie reports
Taxis at the Maseru are still not operational as the Lesotho taxi operators protest against what they say is refusal to do business in South Africa by the police. Many commuters have been left starnded as the operators blockaded roads and ceased operations. Commuters are trying to travel back to their jobs in South Africa. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Thabiso Radebe
The year, 2016 can be remembered about fierce debates around the controversial land ownership. Given that, there are no definitive success in several government programmes for land re-distribution and restitution initiatives, some political parties saw it and used it as Ace-card in the recent government elections. The matter has now cascaded into chaos in the populated mining areas of Brits and Rustenburg in the platinum belt, were land invasion and grabbing is a headache for authorities. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi has compiled this report.
The South African Weather Service is predicting more rain for Gauteng this week. Heavy rainfall is also predicted for Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces. Emergency services in Gauteg are calling on mororists to be cautious on the road.We spoke to Robert Mulaudzi, Spokesperson for the Johannesburg Emergency Services...
The ANC Greater Tshwane Region Caucas has labelled the Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Solly Msimanga's visit to Taiwan as treason. The ruling party's Tshwane Region says it will approach the country's law enforcement agencies to investigate the implications of this visit. The party added that the Mayor does not seem to understand the functioning of the three layers of the state and how they are inter-related and inter-dependent. We spoke to Spokesperson for the ANC Tshwane Region Caucas, Lesego Makhubela, Spokesperson for the Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Samkelo Mgobozi and Sanusha Naidoo, she is a Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Global Dialogue
NGO, OperationSA has presented almost R 10-million to seven charities for the #SAveSyria humanitarian efforts. The organisation says that the money was raised following an urgent call for donations over the past ten days. We spoke to Yusuf Abramjee Social Activist..
Parliamentarians are away for the December recess. They will return to work in January and February. As we look back at 2016, the SAA debate that took place on the 13th of September, the same day President Jacob Zuma had his oral reply session, was one of the critical debates. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent gives us a glimpse at what transpired during the SAA debate and filed this report.......
It has been another tough year for President Jacob Zuma both domestically and on the continental and international stage. Issues ranged from successfully steering the economy to avoid credit rating downgrades to forging new relations with various countries and institutions around the world. He concluded his international programme by attending the funeral of the Cuban leader, Fidel Castro. Our Presidential Correspondent looks at some of the highlights.
It's Almost four months since the August 3rd elections took place- however, Inchanga‚ west of Durban, KwaZulu Natal is still marred by political violence. Last week, three memebers of SACP were killed in Entshangwe, in what the party alledges to be a hit squad. Members of the community have since been urged to defend themselves amid fears of further violence in the area over the festive season.We spoke to SACP's first Provincial Deputy Secretary, Matthews Ndlovu..
The top leadership of of the Correctional Services department is expected to visit St Albans Prison on Tuesday. This after three inmates died after inmates allegedly attacked prison warders. The department says 25 other inmates and five officials sustained injuries. Over the weekend thirty-six inmates sustained burn wounds at the Leeuwkop Prison after a fire broke out. We spoke to Miles Bhudu, President of the South African Prisoners' Organisation for Human Rights and Correctional Services department spokesperson, Logan Maistry ....
The National Sea Rescue Institute has issued a warning to holiday makers, beach-goers and fisherman that the New Moon Spring Tide has been building intensity since Monday and will peak on Thursday. The institute says any beach bathers planning on heading to the beach will notice a gradual increase in the daily tides. It also warns of stronger rip currents. We spoke to Craig Lambinon, spokesperson for the National Sea Rescue Institute...
Family members of the three Lily gold mine workers still trapped underground have expressed uncertainty about the future of the children of Solomon Nyirenda, Pretty Nkambule and Yvonne Mnisi. This follows the closure of another nearby Baabrook mine a wing of the Lily gold mine near Barberton in Mpumalanga. The families have been receiving salaries of the trapped workers since the incident happened in February. Vusi Twala reports....
Parliament's Police Committee says it will consider the Board of Inquiry's report into suspended National Police Commissioner Riyah Phiyega, in February. But COPE supported by the PAC says parliament should further probe the alleged involvement of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and former Minister Nathi Mthethwa in the 2012 Marikana tragedy in which 34 mineworkers were killed. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more...
National Freedom Party (NFP)'s Secretary General Nhlanhla Khubisa and former National Chairperson Maliyakhe Shelembe have been suspended for six years from the party. This after the NFP's National Disciplinary Committee found them guilty of failing to pay the IEC registration deposit on time, which resulted in the party being disqualified from contesting in the August municipal elections. We spoke to NFP's acting National Chairperson Bheki Gumbi...
Authorities are calling on motorists and pedestrians to be vigilant on the roads as the national death toll approaches one thousand. In he last 24 hours alone - close to 40 people have been killed in a number of crashes. We spoke to Simon Zwane, Spokesperson for the Road Traffic Management Corporation…
Anglican bishops in the Western Cape have rejected President Jacob Zuma's call for religious leaders to stay away from politics. This is according to Cape Town Archbishop Thabo Makgoba. He was addressing congregants during the annual Midnight Mass at the St George's Cathedral in Cape Town on weekend. Makgoba also re-iterated his reasons why Zuma should step aside, as our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us...
At least 350 babies have been delivered on Christmas day nationally. Gauteng registered the most number of newborns with more than 114, followed by Limpopo with over 65. The least number of babies were born in the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape. The mothers of the newborns have expressed joy after giving birth on Christmas. Wisani Makhubele compiled this report.
The West Coast Rock Lobster, best known as kreef is now clarified under the seafood we should not buy. In their campaign called skip the kreef this summer, WWF South Africa says the Lobster has now been moved to the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative's red list. To tell us why, we are joined on the line by the SASSI Manager, Pavitray Pillay .
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is urging you to assist them in encouraging members of your families who are behind bars not to smuggle contraband in prison. Three days ago, department confiscated a number of illegal items from one of the corrections centres in the North West. One of the unauthorised items impounded from offenders is a device to break windows. Correctional Services National Commissioner, Zach Modise joins us on the line to tell us more.
President Jacob Zuma says he will never resign on his own and surrender himself to monopoly capital. He shared the stage with ANC Youth League President - Collen Maine - at the Youth League's Economic Freedom Lecture held in Durban. While Maine called for the transformation of the Treasury, he was also quick to add that he does not mean Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan must be removed. The Youth League President also accused some ANC national leaders of being in the organisation to protect and serve the interests of capitalists. Vusi Makhosini reports...
A mother who abandoned her newborn baby in a minibus taxi at the Pavilion shopping centre two weeks ago is expected to appear in court today. The baby was found with a note from his mother apologising for abandoning him and asking for forgiveness. For more on this we are joined on the line by police spokesperson Captain Nqobile Gwala ......
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has met up with Ford South Africa to discuss the increasing incidents of the burning of Ford Kuga. In an email sent to us, Ford SA says they take the safety of their customers very seriously and are committed to addressing potential issues and responding quickly. About 36 Ford Kuga cars have caught fire due to unknown factors. The Spokesperson for the National Consumer Commission, Trevor Hattingh joins us on the line to tell us more.
The Commission for Gender Equality is calling on everyone to be on the lookout for any anomalies in their communities. The Commission says it is troubled by an increase spate of violence and rape against women and children during this festive season. This follows reports of an Attridgeville grandmother who was reportedly raped and killing violent in a violent manner, in front of her 6-year-old grandchild. The Spokesperson for the Commission, Javu Baloyi joins us on the line to tell us more...
Liquor consumers are spoilt for choice this festive season with the introduction of a slew of new drinks. Industry experts say ciders are the most popular choice, followed by beer and cognacs. However, some have blamed the introduction of a variety of fruity alcohol drinks for a steady increase in under-age drinking… Tshepo Mongoai reports…
Humanitarian aid organisation Gift of the Givers says a malnutritioned seven month old baby girl who was buried under the rubble following a bomb attack is being treated at its Ar Rahma hospital in Alepo, Syria. The organisation says the girl's mother was killed in the attack. Gift of the Givers has been running two hospitals in the war-torn country and has appealed to the public to support efforts to help trapped civilians. We are now joined on the line by Gift of the Givers founder Imtiaz Sooliman
The SABC no longer has a board. The last non executive board member Mbulaheni Maguvhe has finally thrown in the towel. He submitted his resignation to President Jacob Zuma who accepted it. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent looks back at some of the events, - from the appointment of the board to the resignation of the last board member. We also caught up with the director of Media Monitoring Africa William Bird for more reaction on these developments...
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has urged parents to ensure their children are supervised around inland and coastal waters. There have been separate incidents where children have drowned over the weekend. A four-year-old boy is still missing (**please update) after he was allegedly swept out to sea at Pearl Bay in Yzerfontein on the West Coast. Another child aged between nine and ten drowned while swimming in the Wilderness Lagoon near George in the Southern Cape. We are joined on the line by National Sea Rescue Institute spokesperson, Craig Lambinon
Security forces in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) patrolled the tense streets of Kinshasa on Sunday after the suspension of talks to find a peaceful way out of the nation's political crisis sparked by the end of President Joseph Kabila's mandate. Negotiations to agree on a way forward for the Democratic Republic of Congo when Kabila's second term comes to an end, were halted on Saturday with no significant progress made. Fears of fresh political violence in mineral-rich but unstable Congo were running high, with no elections planned and Kabila showing no inclination to step down. To dicuss this further we are joined on the line by the Central Africa Director at Human Rights Watch, Ida Sawyer...
The Competition Commission is reportedly investigating South African school uniform monopolies that allegedly overcharge and force parents to buy from certain suppliers. The commission's probe into the R10 billion industries comes amid allegations that senior school executives get paid for exclusive supplier contracts. For more on this we are joined on the line by The Competition Commission's, Commissioner Tembinkosi Bonakele
As South Africans mark Reconciliation Month, many of them believe the country is not doing enough in terms of advancing peace, political tolerance and eradicating social injustices and racism. Over two decades of democracy have seen a number of incidents racism and intolerance that call into question social cohesion and political tolerance. Nkululeko Nyembezi looks at the comprehensive reconciliatory perspective…
Former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng, former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe and SAA board chairperson Dudu Myeni who were expected to receive awards at last night's Umkhonto We Sizwe Military Veterans Association's gala dinner, have failed to attend the event. President Zuma was expected to deliver a keynote address at the event which was held on the East Rand in Gauteng but it was announced that he had taken ill. Mbali Sibanyoni reports...
Metalworkers union NUMSA has resolved to establish a new workers' political party. The decision was taken at NUMSA's National Congress in Cape Town. The Congress has also decided to support students' calls for free education, the nationalisation of strategic minerals and that existing jobs be protected. Lulama Matya reports....
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Capital looks at Asian Markets as Asian shares steadied on Friday, tracking U.S. gains, with financials leading Japan's stock market to a fresh high for the year, Japan Overtakes China as Largest Holder of U.S. Treasuries and Fed, Trump Aren't Making Gold Mining Stocks Great Again
On the #CoalFace with publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, Martin Creamer we looked at the world’s biggest fuel-cell power station is about to be built on South Africa’s East Rand, a big new gold-from-dumps project is under construction in Mpumalanga and the R10-billion gold-from-dumps project on the Far West Rand is expected to be launched in the next six months
Justice and Correctional Service Minister, Michael Masutha, says South Africa will continue to call for the abolition of the death penalty worldwide. Masutha was speaking during the exhumation of the remains of thirteen members of the PAC's former armed wing, Poqo, who were executed by the apartheid government. They were sentenced to death for killing five white people at the Mbhashe River in the then Transkei in 1963. Masutha pointed out that in present-day South Africa, the right to life is entrenched in the constitution. Maluti Obuseng reports
Two youths have been sentenced to life imprisonment for killing their two female cousins and a toddler in Katlehong, east of Johannesburg. The young men strangled the victims and then submerged their bodies in a bathtub filled with boiling water. The two who were 17 and 21 at the time of the crime - pleaded guilty to three counts of murder, attempted murder and robbery. Judge Papi Mosopa handed down his judgement yesterday (Wednesday 14/12) in the Johannesburg High Court sitting in Palm Ridge. Neliswa Mavundla reports...
Communications Minister Faith Muthambi says the former Head of Procurement Madoda Shushsu is an accomplice to corruption committed at the SABC because he failed to report it. Muthambi testified in the parliamentary Inquiry into the SABC Affairs and the board's fitness to hold office. She also faced pressing questions on various issues. Our parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
The Right2Know Campaign (R2K) wants the State Security Minister David Mahlobo to explain exactly what his department's relationship is with the SABC. This follows evidence that emerged during the SABC 8 submission in parliament that the government spies were brought into the SABC building to investigate staff members that were suspected of being whistle-blowers. The Interim Coordinator for R2K Media Freedom & Diversity Focus Group, Jayshree Pather, joins us on the line to tell us more.
Some of the SABC 8 Journalists have continued to receive death threats following their testimonies before the Parliamentary Inquiry into the affairs of the SABC and the board's fitness to hold office. SABC Parliamentary Journalist Lukhanyo Calata, Economics Editor Thandeka Gqhubule, SAFM current Affairs Executive Producer Krivani Pillay and Freelance Journalist Vuyo Mvoko testified inquiry on behalf of all 8 journalists on Tuesday. The Adhoc Committee has condemned the threats. We are now joined on the line by SABC Parliamentary Journalist Lukhanyo Calata
Market analyst, Nadir Token of 27-Four-Investments looks at South African markets as threat of an over-leveraged Chinese economy, the prospects of rising global inflation and where to from here for equities in the JSE
OUTRO: That was
The Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) says claims that the former Vice President of South Sudan, Riek Machar is under house arrest in Pretoria, are not true. Media reports say the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (an eight-country East African group) had asked Pretoria to make sure Machar did not leave. He was previously fired as the Vice President of South Sudan in July 2013. The Head of Public Policy at DIRCO, Clayson Monyela joins us on the line to tell us more.
Today 12 Pan Africa Congress's armed wing members who were hanged at Gallows in 1964 will be exhumed. The 12 Poqo members were given pauper's burials by the apartheid and were buried 3 to a grave at the Rebecca Street Cemetary in Pretoria West. For more we are joined on the line by Madeleine Fullard, head of missing persons task team at NPA...
Parliament's Adhoc Committee had a hard time trying to extract answers from SABC Board Chairperson Mbulaheni Maguvhe. Members of the Committee asked him various questions ranging from the ICASA ruling, the walkout from the inquiry and about controversial decisions made by the board. Our parliamentary correspondent, Mercedes Besent reports......
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane of Lehumo Capitals looks Asian markets as stocks mostly higher ahead of the FED's rate decision and U.S. Stocks Climb to Record Highs
Eskom has confirmed that it will invite bids this week to build nuclear reactors. Government has earmarked nuclear expansion as the centrepiece of a plan to increase power generation and has asked Eskom to procure an additional nine-thousand-600 megawatts of capacity. This as a court case brought by environmentalist groups challenging a controversial nuclear deal between South Africa and Russia was postponed in the Cape Town High Court. For more on this we are joined by Kumi Naidoo who is an ambassador for environmentalist group, the Southern African Faith Communities Environment Institute..
The court case challenging the controversial nuclear energy deal between South Africa and Russia has been postponed in the Cape Town High Court. The case was brought by environmentalist groups, Earthlife Africa and the Southern African Faith Communities Environment Institute. The case was halted when lawyers for the Department of Energy submitted that the procurement will no longer be done by their client and it will now be facilitated by Eskom holdings. Our reporter Lynne Arendse reports ...
The ANC veterans are sticking to their guns demanding for a separate consultative conference. The ruling party had initially resolved at its meeting with the NEC to hold the conference during its policy conference in July next year. But now the stalwarts say it needs to be earlier. Mbali Sibanyoni reports…
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan says 2017 is going to be a difficult year for both political and economic reasons. Gordhan was addressing NUMSA's 10th National Congress currently underway in Cape Town. He says globally next year is likely to see a great deal of uncertainty and instability. Lulama Matya reports....
The State Security Agency's alleged involvement at the SABC was revealed in the Parliamentary Inquiry that is probing the SABC Affairs and the board's fitness to hold office. This revelation was made by the Former SABC Labour Relations General Manager Madiwe Nkosi. Former Group Executive for Human Resources Jabulani Mabaso and former Group Executive for Technology, Sipho Masinga also took the stand. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more.........
The Xhosa Royal House has called for an urgent investigation following the death of three initiates in the Western Cape. The provincial Health Department says the autopsies of two young initiates have been concluded. The post mortem of the third initiate, who died on Friday, is yet to be undertaken. Chris Mabuya reports.....
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane Managing Director of Lehumo Capitals looks at Asian markets as they are largely flat ahead of Fed meeting, Dollar pulls back against euro ahead of Fed meeting and China's industrial output picks up in November
Market analyst, Nadir Token, Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at South African markets ahead of FED meeting this week and what is expected, the performance of listed property relative to bonds in South Africa and political risk faced in Europe through 2017
Hlaudi Motsoeneng's lawyer Zola Majavu says he hasn't received instructions from his client on what he intends to do next. This follows Cape Town High Court's ruling to set aside the appointment of Motsoeneng as the SABC's Group Executive for Corporate Affairs. The court ruled the appointment was invalid, unlawful and irrational. We are now joined on the line by Hlaudi Motsoeneng's lawyer‚ Advocate Zola Majavu
SAfm Current Affairs Producer Krivani Pillay tells parliament how seasoned journalist and former head of News Jimmi Mathews was one of the enforcers telling journalist at the public broadcaster that it is cold outside the SABC.
The "holy juice" pastor, Phumzile Topie who is known as uLizwi in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, was evicted from Khwezi Extension township during a church service yesterday (sunday 11 December). This is after officials in the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality demolished a tent erected by the pastor who made congregants drink what he calls ''holy juice'' on Thursday. Twenty of them suffered from stomach cramps after drinking the liquid and were treated by paramedics. One was taken to a local hospital .The municipality says the pastor had no permission to erect a tent in the area. Mbasa Khwaza reports
Market Analyst, Maudi Lentsoane Managing Director of Lehumo Capitals looks at Asian markets as Asian Stocks slip after opening higher, oil surges as Saudis eye deeper cuts while Non-Opec join deal and the FED Meeting on Wednesday, it is widely expected that we are going to see a 25 basis point increase in interest rates. Can we expect more interest rates increase from the FED in 2017
Several families are rebuilding their lives following a fire at Masiphumelele on Cape Town's South Peninsula. About 60 shacks were gutted and two-hundred residents affected. Ondela Bacela reports...
Market Analyst, Nadir Token, Invesment Analyst with 27-Four-Investments looks at South African markets as Sibanye's $2.2 billion bid for still water mining, the'res a strong rotation from growth orientated investing to value orientated investing and what is the significance of the agreement reached between OPEC and non-OPEC producers and what this means for the oil price
Scores of people have died when a church building collapsed in Nigeria. It is reported that the roof of the church, Reigners Bible Church, caved in on worshippers who had gathered for the ordination of a bishop. Some witnesses have told the media that the church was still under construction and workers had rushed to complete it for the ordination. In 2014, a guesthouse belonging to preacher T.B. Joshua's church collapsed in Nigeria's main city of Lagos, killing at least 115 people, 84 of them South Africans. We are joined on the line by our correspondent in Nigeria Sophia Adengo
Four years after the Marika massacre that left 44 people dead, the Presidency has announced that government is ready to compensate families of the Marikana victims. The president said that the police have instructed its attorneys to make offers of payments in full settlement of claims for the claims where quantification were complete and are not under criminal investigation. Sakina speaks to spokesperson Police Minister Sandile Ngidi
The Department of Basic Education says reports that it would now allow junior high school pupils to pass maths if they achieved 20% in the subject are untrue. The department says there is no such thing as a 20% pass mark for mathematics and there has been no change in the progression policy. To help clear up confusion over 20% maths pass mark, we're now joined on the line by the department's spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga
The two men who forced Victor Mlotshwa into a coffin and threatened to shoot him if he ran away have been denied bail by the Middelburg Magistrate's Court. Magistrate Jongilizwe Dumehleli ruled in the case against Willem Oosthuizen and Theo Martin-Jackson - the co-accused - in the so-called coffin assault case. The duo face charges of assault to cause grievous bodily harm, after they assaulted Mlotshwa and forced him into a coffin alive. The case will be back again in court on January 25th. Abongile Dumako reports...
At least ten youngsters have died in initiation schools in the Eastern Cape. The provincial department of cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) says police are investigating the cases. We are now joined on the line by Eastern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Fikile Xasa
The department of home affairs has emphasised the importance of taking fingerprints of all the people visiting the country, saying there will be finger print readers for foreign nationals when they enter the country. Home affairs minister Malusi was at the OR Tambo International Airport to outline operational plans for the festive season. Gigaba has also stressed that the department still demands that tourists travelling to South Africa with children below 18 provide birth certificates. We are now joined on the line Home Affairs Director General Mkhuseli Apleni
Parliament's Adhoc Committee of Inquiry into the SABC Board's fitness to hold office, will summon SABC Board chairperson Professor Mbulaheni Maguvhe. This comes after he failed to appear before the inquiry. Maguvhe was scheduled to testify in the inquiry yesterday afternoon (thursday 8 December). The Adhoc Committee will also add former board chairpersons Ben Ngubane and Ellen Tshabalala to its witness list. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
The Police are appealing to the public for any information that will lead to the arrest of a dangerous criminal who has escaped from Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria. Henry Edema Timaya Onoh was due to be sentenced in the Pretoria Magistrate's Court for various violent crimes such as house robberies, rape, housebreaking and theft. He escaped on the 3rd of December. To find out more, we are joined on the line by the Spokesperson for Gauteng Province, Colonel Lungelo Dlamini.
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) is planning to approach the National Bargaining Council to complain about the new overtime policy for public healthcare personnel set out by the Ministry of Health. In a statement, SAMA says these new changes means doctors will work without being properly compensated and will result in their not working overtime. For more, we are joined on the line by SAMA's KZN Coastal Branch Chairperson, Dr Mergan Naidoo.
ANC in the Northern Cape has come out in support of former Finance MEC and provincial ANC chairperson, John Block. The party says they still believe in his innocence. Block and Trifecta director Christo Scholtz were sentenced to 15-years imprisonment in the Kimberley High Court on Tuesday. The court found that Block and Scholtz had a corrupt relationship, with Block using his political muscle to secure government lease agreements on behalf of the Trifecta companies, at inflated prices. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Acting Chairperson ANC Northen Cape, Kenny Moimang
Close to 2-million South African children who qualify for a social grant are still not accessing it. That's according to the 2016 Child Gauge report. The focusses on how the grant has benefitted under priviledged children and found that 12 million families have benefitted from the child support grant in the past year. Berenice Moss reports...
The opponents of genetically modified maize should brace themselves as more such grain will soon form part of our staple food. According to the South African Cereals and Oilseeds and Trade Association (SACOTA), there is an agreement between the country and the United States for importing genetically-modified white and yellow maize to meet the local demand. To tell us more, we are joined on the line by De Wet Boshoff, who is the Executive Director of SACOTA.
Former Northern Cape ANC chairperson, John Block and Trifecta Director, Christo Scholtz, are preparing for leave to appeal against their 15-year jail sentences. The duo have been sentenced to an effective 15-years imprisonment in the High Court in Kimberley. In her sentencing, Judge Mmathebe Phatsoane pointed out that there shouldn't be two separate justice systems for the rich and the poor. Block and Scholtz were convicted on charges of corruption and money laundering. The court found that Block and Scholtz had a corrupt relationship, with Block using his political muscle to secure government lease agreements on behalf of the Trifecta companies, at inflated prices. Reginald Witbooi followed the case, and filed this report…
Ghana goes to the polls today (07/12) amidst an atmosphere of optimism and anticipation. The country's over 15 million registered voters will chose their next president and members of parliament for the next four years in what is tipped to be a nail-biting finish. The battle is between President John Mahama's National Democratic Party and opposition New Patriotic Party lead by veteran politican Nana Akufo-Addo. Election observers have urged peace with ordinary Ghanians expressing their excitement at casting their vote. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports from Accra, Ghana...
About six thousand workers in the poultry industry are at risk of losing their jobs as cheap chicken imports from the European Union, Brazil and the US continue flooding the South African markets. Today workers affiliated to the Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU) took to the streets in Pietermaritzburg and marched to the provincial legislature. Already Rainbow Chicken - the second biggest poultry farm in South Africa - is to retrench one thousand two hundred and fifty workers from its Hammarsdale farm near Pietermaritzburg as it can't compete with cheap chicken imports. Vusi Makhosini reports.....
A 15-year-old suspect is expected to appear at the Stellenbosch Magistrate's Court today (Wesnesday) on charges of assault following an alleged bullying incident at the local Luckhoff Secondary School. A video has gone viral on social media showing the attacker pulling her victim's hair, slapping her and slamming the girl's head against her own knees. Meanwhile a second video showing a violent bullying incident in front of pupils has surfaced. To talk about violence at our schools we are joined on the line by researcher at the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR) and Pshycology lecture at Wits University Dr Malose Langa
The festive season is often marked by an increase in crime and the South African Police are asking the public to help them fight crime by donating a dog. Dogs play a significant role in combating crime - they are key in narcotics detection as well as helping with search and rescue operations. We spoke to Brigadier Selvy Mohlala of the South African Police Service...
A Kwa-Zulu Natal nurse has has pledge to support a newborn baby found hidden under the seat of a minibus taxi at the Pavilion shopping centre. Zokuthula Ngcobo found the baby, with a note from his mother apologising for abandoning him and asking for forgiveness. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Zokuthula Ngcobo
The PAC is calling for Robert Sobukwe Day to be declared a public holiday. Every year, the PAC celebrates Sobukwe's life on his birthday, the fifth of December. The party says Sobukwe does not enjoy the same publicity as other leaders in Africa and the United States. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the PAC's s Kenneth Mokgatlhe
The family of the late renowned Gospel musician - Sfiso Ncwane - say they are putting everything before the Lord during this difficult period. The award-wining gospel sensation died of kidney failure at a Johannesburg hospital yesterday morning (Monday 05/12). Ncwane was best known for his songs of praise which include 'Kulungile Baba' and Bayede Baba. Neliswa Mavundla reports
SRC at Wits says it foresees further university protests at the beginning of next year. This follows yesterday's announcement by management that they will raise tuition and accommodation fees by eight percent. Wits management says the increase is in line with the recommendations made by government a couple of months ago. Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande said in September that individual universities should determine their fee increases for next year, but he set a cap of eight percent. This led to a series of Fees Must Fall protests, which disrupted academic activities at Wits and several other campuses countrywide for weeks. Wisani Makhubele reports
Western Cape police are investigating a case of murder after the killing of a 22-year-old woman from Driftsands near Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats. Noluvo Swelindawo's family believes her murder has something to do with her lesbian lifestyle. Swelidawo's body was discovered with a gunshot wound near the N2 highway. Non-government organisations in the area have condemned the incident saying it is sad that this happened during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Zuko Mnukwa who is with Sikhumbule Safe Space, an NGO based in Driftsands where Noluvo Swelindawo used to work
George Glynos, Managing Director at ETM Analytics looks at South Africa's Q3 GDP data expected out today, crisis potentially brewing in the Eurozone following the Italian referendum, banks need recapitalisation and next week will see the US raise interest rates, they will be doing so very late in the business cycle
The Democratic Alliance wants the finalised report into the fitness of suspended National Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega to hold office be tabled in Parliament. According to media reports, Judge Cornelis Claasen has found Phiyega not fit to hold office. We spoke to DA's Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Police Zakhele Mbhele..
United Democratic Movement MP Nqabayomzi Kwankwa has been elected as deputy president of the party. He replaces Khanyisile Litchfield-Tshabalala who resigned about three months ago. Kwankwa, previously the UDM chief whip, was elected at the weekend at the party's national council meeting. We spoke to him about where the party is headed in the future...
Transport Minister, Dipuo Peters has appealed to motorists to exercise caution when travelling during this festive season. The minister launched the festive season transport safety campaign in Johannesburg this weekend. We spoke to her on some of the consequences motorists face when driving recklessly...
South African based Cuban engineers have described Fidel Castro as a great leader and a big man. Thirty-four Cuban engineers are working at Water and Sanitation department. They have been spread in all the nine province to train local engineers. This is part of the agreement between South Africa and the Cuban government. Amongst the agreement is skills transfer in the engineering field. Castro died last month aged 90. Maluti Obuseng reports
The rate of rape cases against minors and those committed by children is alarming in Mpumalanga. According to statistics from the Greater Rape Intervention Programme (GRIP) last year they recorded over 3000 of gender based violence. GRIP recorded more than 1500 rape and over 1700 domestic violence cases in the 10 police stations, 8 government hospitals and five courtrooms they operate in. Just this year, GRIP has recorded closer to 3000 cases of rape and domestic violence. Our reporter Eric Lubisi has more…..
Veterans of the ANC in the Cape Town area say leaders must reflect on whether they are following in the footsteps of late President Nelson Mandela. Party members gathered in Athlone last night to remember Madiba on the third anniversay of his death. Thandiswa Mawu reports...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at EU and Asian markets retreat as they react to the aftermath of the Italian prime ministers resignation, 3rd quarter results coming out this week, what can we expect and Relief at the pumps for South Africans as petrol price decreases.
The Twelve Apostles Church in Christ, as well as KwaZulu-Natal ANC politicians have rallied around President Jacob Zuma when he attended the church's international day of thanksgiving in Durban. Zuma was the guest of honour at the gathering, attended by more than 15 000 congregants from as far afield as Botswana. Church leader Siza Nonqgunga has spoken out against the sustained attack on Zuma amid allegations of state capture. These allegations have led to a resolution at a National Executive meeting of the ANC last week that Zuma should resign. Like Jesus, Nongqunga has challenged the person without sin to cast the first stone. Dries Liebenberg reports
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Analytics at ETM Analytics looks at what to expect this week S&P credit announcement on Friday - what's your take on the outcome of the agency's credit review and Italy voted against fiscal reforms and this has resulted in Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi to announce his resignation.
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian markets as they slip after investors take step back ahead of the US Non Farm Payrolls, and Italian Referendum and China Manufacturing PMI rising in November.
Treatment Action Campaign says HIV and TB remain crises in South Africa. It says every year there are approximately 280 000 new HIV infections and 140 000 HIV-related deaths in the country. We spoke to Treatment Action Campaign General Secretary, Anele Yawa.
The Limpopo High Court has doomed the 'Doom prophet' fumigation sermons. The Limpopo health department has obtained a court interdict ordering Lethebo Rabalago and his church members to refrain from spraying or applying Doom on people. We spoke to Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba
Market analyst, Mohammed Nalla looks at South African markets as global PMIs tick higher but SA remains a laggard and still in contraction, vehicle sales maintain slump despite export uptick and event risk with Focus on S&P after today's close and the Italian referendum this weekend, let's recap what we should look out for.
A traditional healer in the Vaal, south of Johannesburg says gangsters have taken over initiation schools and led to deadly rivalry between gangs. At least three people have lost their lives over the past three weeks. The Diamonds gang from Bophelong and the Mopheme gang from Boipatong are fighting for ownership of all the initiation schools in the area. Ditaba Tsotetsi and Sashin Naidoo visited the area and filled this report ...
The bail application of two suspects Willem Oosthuizen and Theo Martin Jackson who allegedly forced a man alive in a coffin in Middleburg, Mpumalanga has been postponed to Friday. The suspects are facing a charge of assault after allegedly forcing Victor Rethabile Mlotshwa into a coffin and threatening to kill him. Magistrate Jongilizwe Dumehleli allowed the postponement because cross examination by the defense had not been concluded. Abongile Dumako was in court and filed this report...
In South Africa there are currently 7 Million people living with HIV, with 380,000 new HIV infections each year. Health authorities say the statistics for young women and girls are particularly alarming. Yesterday the country joined the rest of the globe in commemorating World Aids Day. During the World Aids Conference in July, South Africa was commended for its roll out of anti-retroviral treatment to those infected with HIV. Nonkululeko Hlophe compiled this report...
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane has again defended her decision to probe her predecessor, Thuli Madonsela. She was addressing questions from Khayelitsha residents during an event to mark the 16 Days of No Violence Campaign. Mlamli Maneli reports...
Market analyst, Mohammed Nalla looks at South African markets as trade balance swings back into deficit but beats expectations, US private payrolls surge as a precursor to tomorrow's jobs data and oil prices surge over 10% as OPEC surprises with a deal to cut production
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian markets as Stocks Rise Most in Three Weeks on Oil Deal and China Manufacturing PMI rises in November...
Equal Education is taking Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga to court for failing to for failing to provide basic amenities to school. Tuesday was the deadline for the Department of Basic Education to meet the norms and standards for school infrastructure, however, only a few of the nine provincial departments met the set standards. For more on this, we are joined on the line by Head of Policy and Training for Equal Education, Leanne Jansen-Thomas
Members of parliament have asked the board and management of the Passenger Rail Agency, Prasa, what they are doing to fix the entity's finances. Prasa has been identified by the Auditor General as the worst performing entity with irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure to the tune of 14 billion rand. The board and management of PRASA were appearing before Parliament's standing committee on public accounts (SCOPA) to account for the losses. We are now joined on the line by Scopa chairman Themba Godi
More than half of government health depots and health institutions do not record the medication they dispense to patients or even take the names of the patients they are serving. This is according to Auditor- General Kimi Makwetu's latest audit report on the Department of Health's performance and management of pharmaceuticals. The report also found that some of these health departments overspent on their budgets because they base their budgets on old information instead of doing an actual healthcare needs analysis of citizens. The Department of health says they acknowledge the findings, but a lot has since changed. The Deputy Director General of Health Regulations and Compliance Management at the Department of Health, Dr Anban Pillay joins us on the line to clarify.
The brutal killing of the "Diamonds" gang boss from Muvhango, outside Vanderbijlpark, has led to revenge killings between two rival gangs. The bloodied body of the young gang boss was found hacked to death by members of rival gang "Mopheme" last month. The killing emanates from an ongoing war between the two gangs in a fight for control of traditional initiation schools in the Vaal area. It's understood that two members from the "Mopheme" gang were also stabbed and hacked to death after the killing of the "diamonds" gang boss. Ditaba Tsotetsi and Sashin Naidoo visited the area and compiled this report...
The Department of Water and Sanitation says dam levels are still a concern across the country despite the recent rainfall. The department has appealed to all South Africans to continue to use water sparingly, and adhere to water restriction measures. Meanwhile, the South African Weather Services has warned that heatwave conditions will persist in some parts of the country until the weekend. We are now joined on the line by spokesperson for the department of Water and Sanitation Sputnik Ratau
Pubic Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown has appointed Matshela Koko as acting chief executive of power utility Eskom. Koko, who is in charge of power generation and has worked at Eskom since 1996. He replaces Brain Molefe who resigned as group chief executive after he was implicated in the former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela's "State of Capture" report. We're now joined on the line by managing director at EE Publishers Chris Yelland
The ANC national executive committee has re-affirmed it's support for president Jacob Zuma's leadership. This is after the party's top leadership highest decision making body between conferences rejected calls by some within the leadership that President Zuma consider stepping down. The discussion on president Zuma's fate led to the party's three day meeting being extended by one day as more NEC members were afforded an opportunity to make an input on the motion of no confidence. The party says it will now focus on forging unity within it's ranks. Political analyst Sanusha Naidu gives us her analysis...
The Former Editor of the Citizen, Steve Motale says he will take his employer to court because he was dismissed without a disciplinary hearing. The Forum of Journalists for Transformation, which defends the rights of Journalists has been in support of Motale. The President of the Forum, Piet Rampedi joins us on the line to tell us more.
The community of Bophelong in the Vaal triangle is living in fear after a spate of killings in recent weeks. It is understood that three people, all believed to be gang members, were stabbed and hacked to death. The war in the area is believed to be between two rival gangs known as The Diamond from Muvhango, just outside Vanderbijlpark and the Mophemes from Boipatong. The community says the conflict between the two gangs is due to a fight for turf where traditional Basotho initiation schools take place. Ditaba Tsotetsi and Sashin Naidoo visited the area and compiled this report...
The practice of forcing young girls into marriage with older men, which is known as "ukuthwala custom' is a criminal offence as it has now been incorporated into the Trafficking in Persons Act. This emerged at an awareness campaign conducted by the Hawks, NPA and the SAPS in Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape. Fundiswa Mhlekude was there and filed this report......
The ANC national executive committee has re-affirmed it's support for president Jacob Zuma's leadership. This is after the party's top leadership highest decision making body between conferences rejected calls by some within the leadership that President Zuma consider stepping down. The discussion on president Zuma's fate led to the party's three day meeting being extended by one day as more NEC members were afforded an opportunity to make an input on the motion of no confidence. The party says it will now focus on forging unity within it's ranks. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
CEO of Epic Foundation, Alta McMaster earlier in the day shared her rape ordeal with us saying it was devastating to to have been raped in her own home. Take a listen to this inspiring story of survival...
People in Limpopo will have better access to Justice services as the Polokwane High Court officially opens its doors tomorrow. Justice department spokesperson, Mthunzi Mhaga says people who seek the services of a high court will no longer travel to Pretoria. The construction of the multi-million rand court building started in 2009. Some streets around the High Court have been closed for traffic. Security is tight as police are patrolling the streets. Jabulani Baloi prepared reports...
Maudi Lentsoane, Managing Director at Lehumo Capital speaks to us about Asian markets drop on concerns OPEC won't get a deal done, Emerging Currencies recovers as Dollar Trump Trade Takes a Breather and more details on this one maobane, Walmart-owned Massmart wins court battle against Pick n Pay
After terrorizing communities on Guateng's East Rand for four years - the Johannesburg High Court has sentenced serial rapist Lucky Simelane to 384 years imprisonment. 33-year old Simelane began his raping spree in 2010 until 2014. His victims, aged between 14 and 49, were raped in different areas including Alberton, Thokoza and Palm Ridge. Pearl Magubane reports.....
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng says senior black law professionals are still battling unconscious bias against them. Mogoeng says both business and government do not support these lawyers. Mogoeng was addressing the media in Midrand following a meeting with the Portfolio Committee on Justice. Senior Reporter Angela Bolowana was there....
The DA in the Western Cape says it's still considering whether to suspend its councillor Shayne Ramsay for mobilising against vagrants in Sea Point in Cape Town. This after she wrote on her Facebook page that vagrants were mentally retarded people and social outcasts. Ramsay also called on her constituency to stop giving to beggars and vagrants, a move she says will force them out of Sea Point. Mlamli Maneli reports...
Head of Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB, Mohammed Nalla, takes us through domestic politics dominating the markets as rand and bonds strengthened plus foreign flows into SA bonds and equity are at their most negative since October 2008. Lastly, Gold remains in a bear trend as demand weakens but near term support is likely
Former ANC MP, Vytjie Mentor says she will be laying charges against Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane for lying about her. This follows reports that Advocate Mkhwebane allegedly said Mentor complained to her about Thuli Madonsela leaking President Zuma's interview. On her facebook page, Mentor expressed her annoyance and says she will make Mkhwebane pay her hugely. She joins us on the line to tell us more
The charges against Thuli Madonsela by Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane for leaking her interview with President Zuma will not fly. This is according to the Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Constitutional Governance at the University of Cape Town, Pierre de Vos. This follows reports that Mkhwebane took the decision to lay charges at the Brooklyn police station in Pretoria after President Zuma lodged a complaint at her office. Pierre de Vos joins us on the line to tell us why the charges won't fly.
The Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU) says although it supports the quest for an obesity-free nation, it does not believe a tax on sweetened beverages is a way to achieve that goal. The union will today march to the National Treasury's office in Pretoria to oppose the pending sugar tax which will take effect from the first of April next year. We are now joined on the line by FAWU general Secretary, Katishi Masemola
The Limpopo pastor who sprays his congregants with the insecticide, Doom says he believes he has been chosen to put into practice the miracles that have been described in the Bible. SABC News was exclusively invited to attend Lethebo Rabalago's church service on Sunday. The 24-year old preached to his congregation that his church, the Mount Zion Christian Assembly has been anointed by God. He referred to scriptures of Jesus' teachings to back his belief. Pimani Baloyi and Shibu Mamokgere filed this report..
Friday marks five years in captivity for South African, Stephen McGown and Swede, Johan Gustafsson were captured by al-Qaeda militants, AQIM in Timbuktu in 2011. NGO, Gift of the Givers is still battling to secure freedom for hostages being held by al-Qaeda militants. The rebels asked the South African and Swedish governments for 5 million euros (about R74.8m) each in ransom. In a video released last year Stephen McGown expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the negotiations
Tshwaragano district hospital in Kuruman in the Northern Cape has been without water, no washing powder, no ambulance. Aobakwe Jarvis a patient at the hospital says he has been sleeping at the hospital since Monday with a broken leg, that need specialists in Kimberley, but there's no transport for patient. We caught up with patient at the hospital Aobakwe Jarvis, and also the health department spokesperson in the province, Lebogang Majaha...
Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority, ZESA, owes Eskom over R250 million in unpaid electricity. Eskom supplies Zimbabwe with 300MW of electricity, and is now threathning to pull the plug if NOT paid by December. We are now joined on the Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe
Maudi Lentsoane, Managing Director at Lehumo Capital looks at Asian shares which are higher, Nikkei adds 0.8% as weak yen theme prevails, the Bank of Japan Can't Keep Stores From Cutting Prices with core CPI falling by 0.4 percent in October, year on-year and Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg is willing to try just about anything to get his company back into China.
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly give us an update From The Coal-Face looking at Gold worth hundreds of millions of rands is being recovered on the East Rand from mine throw-aways like woodchips and grease, once-mighty Anglo American mining company, which is already a shadow of its former self, is intent on becoming even smaller and Business and labour need to combine to counter the Department of Mineral Resources, which has turned dictator.
Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Analytics at ETM Analytics looks at the SARB brought no surprises at its final MPC meeting for 2016 as the benchmark repo rate was kept unchanged at 7.00%, focus now shifting to the Moody's credit review report, that will likely be released after the local close and fuel price adjustments for December on the cards
Media freedom activists have given the CITIZEN newspaper owner Caxton media, fourteen days to respond to their demands or face more action. Dozens of activists under the banner of Forum of Journalists For Transformation, labour federation cosatu, Black First Land First movement, ANC and Communications Workers Union marched to caxton head office in Johannesburg to deliver a memorandum of demands. They want the company to end what they call exploitation of black journalism and continuing racism within it's ranks. We spoke to ANC spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa
Save South Africa says President Jacob Zuma has failed the nation and should not be allowed to finish his full term in office. The Organisation which consists of ordinary South Africans, struggle stalwarts, business and civil society groups officially launched the its campaign of entitled "the people's motion of no confidence in the President". This follows the release of the state capture report by former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela. The report did not directly implicate the President, but it revealed that the Gupta family who have close ties to Zuma, may have had a role in appointing senior government officials. We spoke to Steering Committee member of Save South Africa, Mark Haywood...
Investigation is under way into allegations of racial discrimination and abuse at the Cape Town high school. Pupils residing in a Wynberg Girls' High School hostel recently took to social media to voice their concerns about alleged ongoing racial and sexual abuse by the superintendent. We spoke to Western Cape education MEC Debbie Schafer...
Market analyst, Jana van Deventer of ETM Analytics looks at SA markets with no argument that the SARB's final rate decision for 2016 will be the main event on the local calendar today, October CPI data, surprising to the topside at an 8-month high of 6.4% and expectations for the SARB rate decision
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane looks at Asian markets as Nikkei is up 1% following Japanese shares leading in gains on the back of a weaker yen, FED November minutes released yesterday seemed to validate a rate hike in December and Gold prices sink below US$1,200 for first time in nearly a year.
Market analyst, Jana van Deventer, Head of Real Time Analytics at ETM Analytics looks at one of the major developments was an updated report from the Department of Energy in which it was indicated that plans to build a nuclear power plant have been delayed at least until 2037, positive signs from the SARB's leading business cycle index which rose to an over 1-year high in September and CPI data for October is scheduled for release...
Market analyst, Maudi Lentsoane, Managing Director at Lehumo Capital looks at Asian shares trading in positive territory Wednesday, taking a lead from record gains in the U.S. overnight, Oil ending little changed on Tuesday in volatile trade and India's cash economy being thrown into turmoil since Modi announced on November 8th that 500 and 1,000 rupee notes would cease to be legal tender..
Foreign national are alleged to be made to pay bribes to government officials upon seeking asylum in the country. A report tittled Project Lokisa: Asylum at a Price by Corruption Watch has opened a can of warms which led to investigations into allegations of extortion, threats and bribery by government officials to foreign nationals. The Head of Legal and Investigations at Corruption Watch, Leanne Govindsamy joined us for more details. Meanwhile The Director-General of the Department of Home Affairs, Mkuseli Apleni says his department has been consistent in fighting corruption...
Unemployment rate in South Africa continues to soar with the official number standing at 27 point 1 per cent in the third quarter from the 26 point 6 per cent recorded in the second quarter. This is the highest unemployment figure since 2003. Releasing the results of the labour force survey for the third quarter, Statistician general Pali Lehohla said there is a need to identify economic sectors, that will help create jobs. MorafeTabane has the details while Kate Moukangwe is a Graduate from Vaal University of Technology (VUT). She has never been able to use her qualification to find employment since 2004. Due to lack of employment, Moukangwe decided to follow a different career path and registered for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with Unisa. Does Kate Moukangwe stand a chance to find employment? We also caught with her for more details...
The Treasury is looking into media reports that South African Revenue Service (SARS) has established a special investigation unit similar to the controversial "rogue unit". National Treasury says it first learnt about the unit through the media. The department's spokesperson Yolisa Tyantsi...meanwhile, a professor of constitutional law at the University of Cape Town, Pierre de Vos, says there is nothing sinister establishing a special investigation unit similar to the controversial "rogue unit". He now joines us on the line, to elaborate further
Managing Director at Lehumo Capital, Maudi Lentsoane looks at markets in Asia NOT shaken by 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Japan, US president Elect Donald Trump saying the US will quit the Trans Pacific Partnership trade Deal on his first in the white house, Iron Ore hits two year high this month and traders see 100% chance of Fed hike next month...
Market Analyst, Jana van Deventer looks at a number of risk events that loom large this week, the rand managed to start the new week on a firm footing, the local data card kicks off with the SARB Leading Index for September and the unemployment rate for Q3 that will be released and R3 500 monthly minimum wage that government proposed over the weekend. What is your take on this decision and what ramifications could this possibly have on South Africa’s labour market.
The ANC and it's veterans have agreed to convene a follow-up meeting to resolve all outstanding issues. The governing party's national working committee has met the veterans in Pretoria to discuss their concerns around the state of the ANC and the country. The meeting comes in the backdrop of growing calls , particularly by senior party members that president Jacob Zuma should step down. ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe did not want to disclose the issues discussed We are now joined o the line political analyst at UNISA School of Governance Dumisani Hlophe...
Tiger Brands has asked Lethabo Rabalago‚ dubbed the "prophet of Doom"‚ to stop spraying the insecticide in people's faces. The Pastor of the Mount Zion General Assembly in Limpopo, Prophet Lethebo Rabalago - who believes to be instructed by God to spray Doom on people for healing, joins us on the line to interrogate this further....
President Jacob Zuma has called on ANC members to be vigilant and guard against what he calls a ploy by western countries who are funding certain political parties and individuals plotting a regime change in South Africa. The President was addressing party members attending the party's cadre's forum in KwaDukuza north of Durban. The President also told party members and supporters that the ruling party must always strive to get not less than two third majority during elections so that the ANC can be able to pass any law without having to rely from the support of other parties in parliament. Vusi Makhosini reports....
Members of the three families of the mine workers who are still trapped underground at Lilly Mine in Mpumalanga say they are glad that locals come and conduct prayer services for them. Different churches held a prayer service at the mine remembering Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi and Solomon Nyerenda. Funds were donated to the families of the three trapped miners as the Christmas season arrives. Abongile Dumako reports.
Remember we spoke to Danish filmmaker about his documentary bitter grapes which showing conditions of farm workers at several Cape wine farms, and highlighting claims of below minimum wage salaries, exposure to toxic pesticides and poor living conditions among others. Well, now the Western Cape Labour Department is visiting wine farms in the province in order to conduct a comparative study on working conditions of farmworkers. The department served non-compliance notices to five farms after finding them guilty of not complying with certain labour laws. We are now joined on the line by Western Cape Labour Department's chief inspector David Esau
The NEDLAC advisory panel has proposed three-thousand-500 rand as the national minimum wage. The panel tabled its report yesterday. Wits Professor and Chair of Nedlac's advisory panel, which proposed the amount, Imraan Valodia says the proposed wage will address inequality and boost economic growth...we caught up with Professor Imraan Valodia for more details...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Nikkei leads gains in mixed Asian session as weak yen boosts share, Deputy Finance Minister says corruption undermining South African government and Japan PM Abe on Trump meeting: I'm confident we'll have a trusting relationship
Wits university students have condemned what they called rape culture at the institution. This after a student was raped at Wits Junction residence three weeks ago. The students say it is because of this culture that the suspect was allowed to remain in the same residence without regard for the complainant's well-being. The media was barred from a meeting last night at Wits University's Junction Residence, at which students engaged with management. We caught up with the Chairperson of the House Committee at the residence Nkululeko Tsekane AND by adviser to the WITS Gender Equity Office's Professor Bonnie Meyersfeld for more details...
The portfolio committee on trade and industry has heard that government should cancel the debt of consumers who have been victims of reckless and exploiting lending practices. The committee has been engaging interest groups that made representations about measures to provide debt relief to indebted consumers. Earlier this year the National Credit Regulator briefed parliament about the state of South Africa's credit market, revealing that millions of South Africans were over-indebted. The committee proposed that the regulator consider a kind of "debt forgiveness programme", which would reprieve lower income groups. We are now joined on the line by Chairperson of the portfolio committe on trade and industry Joanmariae Louise Fubbs
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at Black-controlled company Thakadu that is building a R200-million nickel beneficiation plant, Labour Court this week tore a strip off the Department of Mineral Resources for irrationally bringing mines to a wasteful halt and Business and labour need to combine to counter the Department of Mineral Resources, which has turned dictator
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Adviser at ETFSA looks at shift from US elections to global relations, with current president Obama meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whilst president-elect Trump had his first meeting with Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, Fed Chairman Janet Yellen made her first public comments post the election yesterday, shortly after news came out that for the first time in almost 10 years, core CPI in the US has now been above the target level of 2% for a year and what will our the South African reserve bank do next week?
A number of ANC MPs are in hot water for failing to attend sittings of the National Assembly on two consecutive days. This has resulted in the Division of Revenue Bill not being passed due to a lack of quorum. Now the ANC is taking them to the Caucus Disciplinary Committee to show its unhappiness with their behaviour. Joseph Mosia reports
Communications Workers Union has called for President Jacob Zuma to step down with immediate effect. The Cosatu-affiliated union says this is linked to the observations made by Public Protector Thuli Madonsela's State of Capture report that the Gupta family - which is closely tied to President Zuma - may have had a role to play in appointing senior government officials. Speaking to the media in Johannesburg yesterday the union's top leadership said while it has not yet decided on a preferred candidate to succeed the President - it is clear on what it expects the next ANC leader to deliver on. Political reporter Mbali Sibanyoni reports
Parliament's Legal Services has told the National Assembly's Programme Committee that it is making progress in locating apartheid laws that may still be in force. One piece of legislation that has been found dates back to 1835. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Presidential Jet Inkwazi gives defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula sleepless nights. The Defence Minister was making representations in parliament saying that they are going ahead with plan to acquire a new presidential Jet
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which are in the red as oil slips further, Federal reserve chair, Janet Yellen faces a grueling house of Representatives following Trump victory and this week's Investment theme expansive retail spaces in the world
Minister of State Security David Mahlobo says he will not resign following allegations that he provided protection to rhino poachers. Police Minister Nathi Nhleko could not answer a question in parliament because he says the Executive Director of IPID refuse to provide them to him. And the purchase of a VVIP Jet for the President is going ahead. These are some of the matters that arose out of the question and answer session to the security cluster in the National Assembly. Joseph Mosia reports
The heckling and insults allegedly levelled against president Jacob Zuma whenever he appears in the National Assembly generated intense debate among the political parties in the Rules Committee. This comes just a week before Zuma will be back in the National Assembly to answer oral questions. SABC's Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
The South African Petroleum Industry Association says it remains strongly opposed to the de- regulation of the fuel industry in South Africa. The Association's Chairman Maurice Radebe made the comments at the release of the organizations' first ever study into the economic impact the industry has on the local economy. Morafe Tabane compiled this report...
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA looks at the Auditor General’s report which highlighted "irregular spending" of more than R46bn and a further R1.3bn in "wasteful spending", JSE-listed retailers such as Truworths, Woolworths and Mr Price slightly better than expected and disposable income is affected from month to month by the changes in the petrol price, and in recent months, that has been increasing sharply
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has uncovered a new scam where Social grant beneficiaries are reportedly receiving text messages telling them to get new cards before the beginning of the year. This has been refuted by SASSA. We spoke to the National Spokesperson for SASSA, Kgomoco Diseko...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks Asian markets as they edge up as new optimism returns market confidence, the Trump Tentrum continues to dilute emerging markets performance and Telkom pays dividend in it half year results signalling strong revenue...
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF South Africa looks at SA markets with 2016 being remembered for some fairly major and unexpected events, including some extreme weather - just this last week there has been both flooding and a tornado in Johannesburg and ratings agencies look at the state of South Africa's finances, they will still see this drag coming from the state-owned enterprises. On the other side, we need to increase tax revenue, but where will these come from...
EFF members led by Party's national leadership expected to demonstrate outside the Middelburg Magistrate court this morning as two farm owners make an appearance. The two, Willem Oosthuizen and Theo Martins Jackson allegedly beat up a black farm worker and put him in a coffin while he was alive. Both Oosthuizen and Jackson uploaded the events on Social media, which has angered many locals around the Middelburg area. We spoke to our reporter in Middleburg, Abongile Dumako...
South Africa is set for high level negotiations with the Assembly of State Parties of the International Criminal Court in the Hague, Netherlands on Wednesday. Having given notice to quit the Rome Statute of the ICC last month -Pretoria is expected to state its case for its withdrawal from the ICC. This is against a backdrop of countries divided on how the treaty, to prevent impunity and protect victims of genocide and crimes against humanity, should be implemented. This global stage will present far more of a challenge than local efforts on the part of the Democratic Alliance and Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution to challenge cabinet's decision as Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports...
President Jacob Zuma requested written representations from NPA head Shaun Abrahams on why he should not be suspended pending an inquiry into his fitness to hold office. Zuma's decision follows a request by Freedom Under Law and the Helen Suzman Foundation for the President to suspend the three advocates pending an inquiry into their fitness to hold office. To unpack the implication of President Jacob Zuma's letter to its head Shaun Abrahams, we spoke to senior lecturer in public law at the University of Cape Town, Dr Cathy Powell...
Provincial secretary of COSATU in Mpumalanga, Thabo Mokoena has called on minister for Mineral Resources Musebenzi Zwane to compensate the families of the three workers who remain trapped underground. Mokoena has been speaking during a picket at Lilly gold mine in Lows Creek near Barberton in Mpumalanga. Vusi Twala reports....
The hotly debated state capture raged on in the North West with members of the provincial legislature accusing Premier Mahumapelo of being a first culprit thereof. While the ANC came as expected to dismiss the alleged state capture, the EFF followed by DA continued to point their finger at Mahumapelo. The motion to debate the state capture, was presented last week to the Speaker of the Legislature by the ANC . Patrick Dintwa reports...
The Water and Sanitation Department says it will take up to two or three years for the country to recover from the drought conditions it's currently experiencing. Government earlier declared eight provinces - including KwaZulu-Natal - disaster areas due to insufficient rainfall. Many municipalities across the country have been forced to impose water restrictions as a result. Authorities say despite the recent rains there has been no significant change in dam levels. Mbuso Mkhize reports.......
The Hawks have revealed that an investigation has been underway into Guan Jiang Guang, a member of a an alleged rhino horns trafficker and a member of a crime syndicate who is reported to have links with State Security Minister David Mahlobo. The allegations were made in a documentary that was broadcast by television network, al-Jazeera. In the documentary Guan Jiang Guang boasts that Mahlobo is his friend. Mahlobo has called the police to investigate. We are now joined on the line by Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi
It is expected to be another busy week at Parliament, with among others, the SABC inquiry kicks off. An ad hoc committee has been established to look into affairs at the SABC. Members of Parliament will also take part in a debate on Parliament's mandate to hold the Executive to account, in the National Assembly. Zalene Merrington has more...
Fraud and corruption is increasing in the government sector as well as the private sector. So says adv. Charl Strydom from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). Strydom delivered a presentation on fraud trends and practises at the Bloemfontein seminar of the Fraud Awareness week. He says incidences of fraud and corruption in the workplace, no matter how big or small, are not going to subside. Maryna van Wyk reports....
EFF leader Julius Malema has become one of the first political party leaders in a democracy to be charged for contravening an apartheid legislation, - the Riotous Assemblies Act of 1956. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent looks at how this piece of legislation came into effect and how it has generated political debate. Here are the details together with analysis by political analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni based at Unisa...
The Free State government has set its sights on exploring the flower industry as a means to grow the economy and boost tourism. Tourists and flower experts have descended on Parys for the inaugural Madeira Flower festival .The concept was born from a high level government trade visit to the Portuguese island of Madeira in March this year. Palesa Moeti reports
ANC Treasurer-General Zweli Mkhize does not rule out the possibility of reconciling with party members who contested the August municipal elections as independent candidates and taking them back to the party. Mkhize met with party members in Phoenix west of Durban to listen to their concerns as part of a decision by the national leadership to visit all wards where the party's candidate selection process created tensions among party members. In Phoenix, the party lost seven wards and won only one ward, losing even the ward previously under party control. Vusi Makhosini reports
ANC Secretary General Gwede Mantashe, has called on ANC members to refrain from divisive behaviour ahead of next year's national elective conference. Mantashe also says corruption, state looting and factionalism within the party are contributory factors to weakening the ANC. He was speaking at the cadres forum held in Mahikeng in the North West. Patrick Dintwa attended the meeting and compiled this report
More than 200 families have been left destitute following a storm that hit eMalahleni in Mpumalanga. The storm uprooted trees and powerlines in Kwaguqa and the surrounding areas. The Emalaheni Disaster Management Team is assessing the extent of the damage. The municipality has promised to provide the affected families with food parcels, blankets and shelter. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports....
Mahlobo denies links to rhino poachers. According to a documentary aired on Doha based television neworks, Mahlobo has close ties to a Chinese national living in South Africa who is alleged to be a rhino horn trafficker and part of an organised crime syndicate. Guan Jiang Guang has bragged about bribing South African Justice and immigration officials in a documentary. Sakina Kamwendo speak to minister Mahlobo
Nerina Visser Strategist and Advisor at etf SA looks at some significant market movements since the world woke up last Wednesday to the reality of Donald Trump being elected as the next president of the United States, Mexican peso which has fallen by more than 13% in 3 days, and almost 30% over the last year and in Zimbabwe and India there is a very real cash crunch as people struggle to get hold of physical money.
Mohammed Nalla, Head for Strategic Research-Nedbank CIB the rand tumbling yesterday along with other Emerging markets, SA mining data a little upbeat but manufacturing disappoints and Singles Day kicks off in China!
Johannesburg emergency services says four people have died following yesterday's floods in some parts of the Gauteng province. People in informal settlements in low-lying areas have been warned to move to higher ground to avoid being caught up in flash-flooding. For more on this we are joined by Joburg Emergency Services spokesperson Nana Radebe.
Flash floods have caused chaos in parts of Johannesburg and the East Rand. Emergency officials at Emer-G-Med have confirmed that at least one person has drowned on the N3 in Linksfield. Several flights were delayed at OR Thambo international airport after torrential rain flooded runways. Scores of vehicles were stuck almost roof-height in water. We are now joined on the line by forecaster at the SA weather service Wayne Venter
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa continues to be committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. He said South Africa condemns in the strongest terms the violation of human rights where-ever they occur and wants those responsible to be held accountable. He was replying to questions in the National Council of Provinces. He also lauded the new AIDS vaccine trial scheduled to start this month. Joseph Mosia reports...
The Department of Transport is celebrating after the Constitutional Court got them off the hook for a 15-year-old contract. The Concourt yesterday (Wednesday 9 November) ruled that the traffic system known as eNatis, be transferred from a private provider to the Road Traffic Management Corporation. This comes after the contract with Tasima Limited was illegally extended in 2010. Senior Reporter Angela Bolowana reports.
The Sector Monitoring Report has revealed that the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector has not had sufficient transformation. The report outlines the status of the implementation of BBBee (triple B-E-E) in the sector. We spoke to Telecommunications and Postal Services Minister, Siyabonga Cwele...
The ANC Caucus in Parliament has asked to be given space to make its own decision on the motion of no-confidence against President Jacob Zuma. This is in response to ANC veteran, Mavuso Msimang, who has appealed for the ANC MPs to vote with the opposition on the motion. We spoke to Political Analyst and Head of Political Economy at Mapungubwe Institute For Strategic Reflection, Ralph Mathekga...
Republican Donald Trump has shocked the world by beating Hillary Clinton to win the US presidency. The businessman has won a series of swing states that were predicted to be toss ups, making him the outright favourite to win the required 270 electoral voters required to claim the presidency. By early Wednesday, the US state Pennsylvania was one of the last chances Clinton had left for victory. We spoke to voter in the Pennsylvanian city of Philadelphia, Carl Gallagher...
Maudi Lentsone, Managing Director at Lehumo Capital talks at how global markets are plummeting as investors fear Donald Trump, is there any reason to fear Trump.
Several witnesses were called to testify in the Port Elizabeth High Court in the murder and abduction trial of Christopher Panayiotou. Forensic evidence was given as well as details on the role of social media in the investigation. Panayiotou is thought to have master-minded the abduction and murder of his wife Jayde, in April last year. Veronica Fourie reports
Markets plunge with increasing chance of Donald Trump victory, Mohammed Nalla who is head of Strategic Research-Nedbank CIB looks at the this and what a Donald Trump victory would mean for South Africa.
ANC Stalwart Mavuso Msimang says the ANC in parliament must for with the DA in a motion of NO confidence against President Jacob Zuma. Msimang was part of a panelist on SAfm's Forum@8 discussion hosted by Sakina Kamwendo alongside another struggle stalwart Dr Fazel Randera who also called on MPs to vote with their conscience.
From December 1st, the minimum wage for domestic workers will be increased. The new rates for domestic workers in Area A, large metropolitan municipalities, will now be 12-rand-42-cents an hour while workers in Area B - all other municipalities - will be 11-rand-31-cents.The new wages will remain in force until the 30th of November 2017.We spoke to Mokgadi Pela, spokesperson for the Department of Labour...
The ANC Youth League has called on President Jacob Zuma and others implicated in the Public Protector's State of Capture report to take it on judicial review. The organisation has also questioned author and former public protector Thuli Madonsela's credibility as well as that of the report. Noma Bolani reports
Maudi Lentsone, Managing Director at Lehumo Capital looks at the MSCI Asia Pacific Index extended the last session's rebound from a seven-week low after the S&P 500 Index snapped a nine-day losing streak, China's Exports Drop for a Seventh Month on Tepid Global Demand and British Prime Minister Theresa May's 3 Day Trade Visit to INDIA got off to a rocky start.
Former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela has refused to comment about the alleged leaking of an audio recording of her discussion with President Jacob Zuma. Madonsela was one of the recipients of the Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha Award in an event held in Durban last night. The audio recording carried recordings of her meeting with President, Jacob Zuma when Madonsela was doing her investigation into the alleged State Capture. Meanwhile Madonsela says she is unshaken by the utterances of the ANCYL when they accused her of being the puppet of the Democratic Alliance. Vusi Makhosini reports
Democratic Alliance has denounced utterances made by Economic Freedom Fighter's President Julius Malema that his party is not calling for the slaughter of white people‚ at least for now. These alleged comments were made outside the Newcastle Magistrate's Court in northern KwaZulu-Natal, by Malema yesterday. He was addressing to his followers after proceedings against him for allegely urging his supporters to invade land were provisionally postponed to December 7. The DA says such comments have no place in our constitutional democracy. Sakina speaks to the DA's Phumzile Van Damme.
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research-Nedbank CIB talks about how the US elections are dominating headlines while US markets surge on slight Clinton lead, rand surges on positive risk sentiment driven by both local and global developments and Oil prices stabilize ahead of OPEC meeting this month but Chinese demand lower
The United States will elect its next President today. While four candidates are on the ballot in most states only two have a viable chance of winning enough electoral college votes to replace President Barack Obama in the White House. National polls have Democratic Hillary Clinton maintaining a three to six point advantage over Republican nominee Donald Trump. Sherwin Bryce Pease filled this report.
Trade union Solidarity has called for the appointment of an acting president pending the finalisation of the report by the commission of inquiry into allegations of state capture. The union filed a petition in Parliament and delivered letters to cabinet on Friday, setting out grounds for this request. We spoke to Solidarity Chief Executive Dirk Hermann...
A newly-built police station has become a white elephant in Moeka in the Moretele Municipality near Pretoria. Residents say the new police station has become a haven for criminals who are vandalising it. Construction started in 2013 and halted in early 2014 due to an alleged problem with contractors. Residents say before the construction was halted the police station only needed some finishing touches. Zanele Sibiya visited the area and spoke to residents....
The DA says it has uncovered a trail of corruption and plunder in the metros it won from the ANC in August 3 municipal elections. DA leader Mmusi Maimane, together with Tshwane Metro and Johannesburg Mayors, Solly Msimanga and Herman Mashaba briefed the media in Johannesburg at the weekend. Nomsa Mdhluli was there and filed this report...
Managing Director at Lehumo Capital Maudi Lentsone looks at Asian markets as dollar and the Mexican Peso turn positive after FBI clears US presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton of wrongdoing, China Bars Independence Supporters From Hong Kong Legislature and Australia Could Lose AAA Rating Next Month
SACP General Secretary Blade Nzimande has urged a stop to the abuse of state organs for serving narrow agendas. Dr Nzimande speaks to AMLive Anchor Sakina Kamwendo
Another ANC NEC member and member of Parliament, Mathole Motshekga, has spoken out against the party's president Jacob Zuma, calling for him to resign following the release of the State of Capture Report. Motshekga is the latest to break ranks after ANC Chief Whip in parliament Jackson Mthembu called for the entire party's NEC to step down. According to media reports, Motshekga maintained that the ANC cannot and should not accept collective responsibility for the actions of President Zuma, and those who are implicated in the Report. Abongwe Kobokana reports.
The Economic Freedom Fighters leader, Julius Malema is expected to appear in Newcastle regional court this morning for allegedly breaking the Riotous Assemblies Act. The National Prosecuting Authority says Malema has been charged for inciting people to break the law, following repeated comments he made telling people to occupy empty land. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research-Nedbank CIB looks at the markets swinging from risk off to risk on, on the back of US election fears, Brexit vote set for the agenda in the UK this week and reports of the weekend that finance Minister might be charged will keep political risk alive in South Africa
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the wife of the late Clive Derby-Lewis, Gaye who says her husband feared what was going to happen when the ANC took over. Gave Derby-Lewis says there is NO evidence that her husband killed the SACP leader Chris Hani
SABC News Specialist Political Researcher, Ronesh Dhawraj summarises the State of Capture report
The Public Protector's report on alleged state capture was released late last evening - finding a wide range of issues of concern and saying in its remedial action that President Jacob Zuma should appoint a judicial commission of inquiry within 30 days. The report goes on to say that the commission's findings should be presented to President Jacob Zuma within six months of the establishment of the commission. It also directs Treasury to provide adequate funding to the commission. The Public Protector's report notes among other things - its concern that Minister Des Van Rooyen can be placed at the Gupta family home in Saxonwold on seven occasions - including the day he was announced as the new Finance Minister in December 2015. Amina Accram reports...
The ANC may lose one of its support bases in rural areas, if the Congress of Traditional Leaders' threat to withdraw it support is anything to go by. Contralesa has given the ruling party 60 days to respond to a list of demands or it will withdraw its support from the ANC. Among their demands, Contralesa wants President Zuma to pardon the jailed abaThembu King Buyelkhaya Dalindyebo and recognise traditional courts. They also want the government to transfer rural land under traditional authority institutions. They have threatened to form their own political party if the ANC does not respond positively to the demands within the deadline. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports….
ANC's Zizi Kodwa says interception between business & political leadership will always have unscrupulous relations. He further emphasised that the governing party takes the allegations in the report very seriously.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets as price of Brent crude oil at 47-dollars-43-cents a barrel, yen strengthens and hurts exports and recovery in the Brics nations could help with Ratings downgrade
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Khomotso Moshikaro, Public Law Lecturer at the University of Cape Town about the State of capture report
Founder of the Decolonisation Foundation, Mzwanele Manyi says what the State Capture report calls for, is unconstitutional. The Public Protector's office was ordered by the hight court in Pretoria to release the 355-page report yesterday. The report calls for a judicial inquiry into the alleged influence of the Gupta family on government appointments.
The first HIV vaccination trials to prevent the spread of the virus have kicked off at the Chris Hani Baragwaneth Academic Hospital in Soweto. This study called the HVTN 702 involves over five thousand participants in 15 sites across the country. South African scientists and their international partners are optimistic that the trial will yield positive results in about four years. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Dr Fatima Laher.
Political parties in parliament last has held a debate on whether to review South Africa's relationship with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The debate came as the country is faced with the sluggish economic growth. Abongwe Kobokana filed this reports...
The Head of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate - IPID - Robert McBride, says he is relieved that the charges of fraud and defeating the ends of justice levelled against him have been withdrawn. McBride, together with his two co-accused Mathews Sesoko and Innocent Khuba, was facing the charges in the Pretoria Magistrate's Court. The two investigators have since been fired from IPID as a result.The State cited as a basis for their withdrawal of the charges, the State witnesses reluctance to deliver evidence in court. The charges against the three related to their investigation of former Hawks boss, Anwa Dramat's alleged illegal rendition of Zimbabwean nationals in 2010. Zanele Sibiya attended the court proceedings and filed this report....
Opposition parties have dismissed President Jacob Zuma's assertion that former Public Protector Advocate Thuli Madonsela did not follow due process in finalising the so-called STATE CAPTURE report. On Monday, proceedings got underway in the High Court in Pretoria where President President Zuma is seeking a postponement of the release of the Public Protector's report which attempts to ascertain whether the wealthy Gupta family had undue influence over the President. Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng filed this report...
Opposition parties say they are pleased to have been admitted as an intervening parties in the State Capture case being heard in the Pretoria High Court. Pulling a united front, the Economic Freedom Fighters, United Democratic Movement and Congress of the People have all applied to intervene in President Jacob Zuma's application to interdict the report that was to be released by the former public protector, Advocate Thuli Madonsela, last month. The report centres on claims of interference by the politically-connected Gupta family in the running of state affairs, including the appointment of cabinet ministers. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Investment Analyst at Twenty-Seven-Four investment managers, Nadir Thokan looks at the potential for a merger between Steinhoff and Shoprite, new car sales numbers came out yesterday and China PMI numbers that came out yesterday
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela Asian markets as possible Trump presidency gets a boost, Murray and Roberts sells substantial business unit and steady Rand could help down the petrol price as oil slows to $47.43...
Political Analyst and Head of Political Economy at Mapungubwe Institute For Strategic Reflection, Ralph Mathekga says the ANC can no longer continue with the narrative that President Jacob Zuma is in charge. Mathekga was speaking to Sakina Kamwendo on AMLive on SAfm
The Former Public Protector Advocate Thuli Madonsela says it is now up to the judges sitting at the Pretoria North High Court to make a ruling on the release of the #StateCaptureReport. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo on AMLive, Madonsela says all procedures were followed in compiling the report.
Political parties in parliament last night, held a debate on whether to review South Africa's relationship with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The debate came as the country is faced with the sluggish economic growth. Abongwe Kobokana filed this reports
Pressure is mounting for NPA boss Shaun Abrahams to be removed or to resign following Abrahams' announcement that they will be dropping the fraud charges against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and two former SARS officials, Oupa Magashula and Ivan Pillay. The three were due to appear in the Pretoria Regional Court on Wednesday in connection with Pillay's early retirement package pay-out in 2010. The NPA regarded this as irregular. Senior Research Fellow at University of Pretoria's Centre for the Study of Governance and innovation Prince Mashele...
Economic Freedom Fighters has written a letter to the General Council of the Bar requesting that it removes the National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams from the roll of advocates. Abrahams earlier announced the dropping of fraud charges against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and two former SARS officials, Oupa Magashula and Ivan Pillay. We spoke to EFF's secretary general Godrich Gardee...
Pressure is mounting for NPA boss Shaun Abrahams to be removed or to resign.Yesterday, Abrahams announced the dropping of fraud charges against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and two former SARS officials, Oupa Magashula and Ivan Pillay. The three were due to appear in the Pretoria Regional Court on Wednesday in connection with Pillay's early retirement package pay-out in 2010. The NPA regarded this as irregular. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
The Pretoria High Court will today make a decision on President Jacob Zuma's application to hault the Public Protector's "state capture" report. President Zuma has argued that he needs more time to respond to the questions from the former Public Protector, Advocate Thuli Madonsela and an opportunity to interview witnesses who have made allegations against him. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report
The case against a man and his wife, who allegedly abused their five children for more than a decade, resumed in the Pretoria High Court this week. The man and woman both pleaded not guilty to 20 charges, including attempted murder, child abuse and child neglect. The father denied that he raped and repeatedly sexually assaulted his eldest daughter, who was 16 at the time. Liela Magnus reports
Nadir Thokan Investment analyst at 27Four Investment managers looks at the US crude production numbers that came out yesterday and the impact of this on the oil price, trade balance numbers also came out for South Africa yesterday and what is impact of the NPA's decision to withdraw charges against Pravin Gordhan
KwaZulu-Natal Premier - Willis Mchunu - has formed a Commission of Enquiry to probe the root causes of political killings in the province. During the run up to this year's municipal elections, twenty politically-related killings were reported in the province - with the ANC the hardest hit. Some of those killed were women who were branch leaders, while others were party candidates in the August municipal elections. Vusi Makhosini reports…
The South African Communist Party in Mpumalanga has expressed support for the views raised by the ANC chief whip Jackson Mthembu about the current leadership of the ANC. Speaking during the party's Red October rally in Emalahleni provincial secretary of the SACP Bonakele Mabuja says the criticism directed at Mthembu is unreasonable. Vusi Twala reports...
The Association of Mine workers and Construction Union has secured a wage increment of one thousand rand for its members in all major platinum producing mines in the country. Lonmin, Impala and Anglo Platinum have struck a deal with Amcu, on increases in living out allowances, as well as retirement and provident funds, among others. The Union said this at the mass meeting held at Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, North West. AMCU members have accepted the deal and say this will better their lives. Zebilon Maine reports . .
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Willis Mchunu has formed a Commission of Inquiry to probe the root causes of political killings in the province. During the run up to this year's municipal elections, twenty politically-related killings were reported in the province - with the ANC the hardest hit. Some of those killed were women who were branch leaders, while others were party candidates in the August municipal elections. Vusi Makhosini reports
Market Analyst Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which are shakey this morning, Japan's September industrial output stalls , General Electric Co is nearing a $30 billion deal to merge its oil and gas business with Baker Hughes Inc and talks about the chances of a downgraded by credit rating agencies
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Ndiziwe Mkhize, a mother whose son was allegedly assaulted with a hammer and stabbed by fellow pupils at Luthayi High School in Kwazulu Natal. The boy is said to be the fifth victim of violent attacks at the same school. MEC for Education in KwaZulu Natal, Mthandeni Dlungwana also responds
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27Four investment managers talks about Dischem listing and opportunities there, US GDP growth numbers came out on Friday and trade balance numbers coming out today
Retired Deputy Judge President, Dikgang Moseneke, says students can resort to electoral correction if they are unhappy. He was the key note speaker at Unisa's Founders lecture in Pretoria last night. He said the current FeesMustFall violence is wholly unacceptable and must stop immediately it delegitimize the student's valid claim for universal access to higher education, subject to reasonable qualifications. Moseneke called for a Codesa on education lead by civil society. Liela Magnus reports ....
The Mpumalanga department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs is to asses the damage caused by a heavy storm in Belfast in the Emakhazeni local municipality near Middelburg. One person has been admitted in hospital following the heavy storm that hit Belfast late yesterday. Vusi Twala reports...
Gordhan has told parliament's finance committee that he is also looking into the matter. The DA says it will submit a parliamentary question next week to the finance minister regarding the response from SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane on the issue. A group of 81 top business people are the latest to offer their support to Gordhan as he prepares to face fraud charges next week. Listen to the following clip of the alleged hostage situation at SARS where Sars employee Vlok Symington was alledgedly being held against his will by the Hawks' Nyameka Xaba and Tom Moyane's bodyguard. The following sound courtesy of the Mail and Guardian....For legal analysis on the matter we also caught up with Professor Pierre De Vos, Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Constitutional Governance at the University of Cape Town and author of the Blog, Constitutionally Speaking.
Constitutional Court Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng held no prisoners at the O R Tambo Memorial lecture last night in Newtown, Johannesburg. The annual lecture marked what would have been the 99th birthday of the struggle icon. Among other things Mogoeng spoke passionately about avoiding an economic downgrade at all cost and the importance of good leadership. Senior Reporter Angela Bolowana attended the lecture and filed this report…
Government has revised the economic growth forecast for the year down from zero-point-nine percent to zero-point-five percent. Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan was presenting the 2016 Mid-term budget - also known as the 'mini budget' earlier yesterday. Gordhan says treasury expects economic growth to pick up to one point three percent next year and two-point-two percent in two years' time. Amina Accram reports
Corruption watch says it will be laying criminal charges against South African Revenue Service Commissioner Tom Moyane for his alleged failure to report two senior employees accused of financial irregularities to the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation. This follows findings of a report from the Financial Intelligence Centre which details allegations of fraud and corruption by senior Sars employees Jonas Makwakwa and Kelly-Ann Elskie. We spoke to executive director of Corruption Watch David Lewis
Residents of Bolotwa village outside Ngqeleni in the Eastern Cape are up in arms following brutal murders and rape of women in their area. They say they've been living in fear as they were allegedly terrorised by a 24 year-old suspect for the past two and a half years. Residents travelled in numbers to a local magistrate court where the alleged rape and murder suspect appeared briefly for the crimes. His case has been postponed until the 3rd of November. Fundiswa Mhlekude has more.....
Johannesburg mayor, Herman Mashaba says the replacement of the Rea Vaya bus that was burnt during student protests in Braamfontein on Tuesday night will cost an estimated 3.3 million rand. Mashaba says that while he understands the plight of poor students, violent forms of protests must stop. We spoke to the spokesperson of Johannesburg mayor, Gabu Tugwana...
Head of Real Time Analytics of ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at whether Mini Budget lived up to what had perhaps been hyped-up expectations and whether South African National Treasury doing enough to ensure that country can avoid a credit rating downgrade to sub-investment grade before year-end...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which slipped slightly earlier in the week...
The SA Council of Churches has warned that if the ongoing violent protests at Universities are not addressed things will get out of hand and call for a state of emergency. The SACC is appealing to all religious groups to come together and help stop violence during Fees Must Fall protests at tertiary institutions. The council has proposed the establishment of a reference group - comprised of different religious groups , to create space for peaceful dialogue between students, parents and university management. Tshepo Phagane reports....
Whilst the country waits with bated breath the appearance of Finance minister at the Pretoria Regional Court next week, Pravin Gordhan will take to the podium this afternoon in parliament, to deliver his mini budget at a time when the economy is under a huge strain. Top of mind in his speech will be trimming of state debt, the budget deficit, money to fund higher education and the slow economic growth. To help us look at what we may expect, Dr Azar Jammine - Chief Economist Econometrix - had this to say...
The department of Correctional Services has confimed that a fire has broken out at the Johannesburg Correctional Services facility. No one was injured. For more this we spoke to the department of Correctional Services Spokesperson, Manelisi Wolela...
President Jacob Zuma has acknowledged concerns raised by political leaders, business and civil society organisations over the decision by the National Prosecutions Authority to haul Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan before courts. There has been a groundswell of support for Gordhan- ahead of his scheduled court appearance at the Pretoria regional court next week. There are growing calls that the President instruct the National Prosecuting Authority to drop fraud charges brought against Gordhan. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report....
Academics and researchers will converge in Cape Town for the first wind energy conference to share knowledge about wind energy in Africa. They will discuss and find out about the challenges which exist to the growth of the wind sector in South Africa and globally and how these challenges can be addressed through scientific research. The conference will be hosted by the South African Wind Energy Association in partnership with the Global Wind Energy Council from the 31st of October until 1st November 2016. For more we are now joined on the line by Ntombifuthi Ntuli, SA Wind Energy Association Board member (SAWEA)
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which have slipped slightly this morning, Singapore loses its crown as the easiest country to do business and today's Hot topic- South african Mid-term budget update, what to expect.
Head of Real Time Analytics at ETM Analytics Jana van Deventer looks at Data from the Reserve Bank which shows that the August leading indicator bounced, today is Medium Term Budget day- how have local markets been performing ahead of this major risk event
Justice and Correctional Services Minister, Michael Masutha, today announced the publication, for public comment, of the Prevention of Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill. Interested parties may make inputs about the bill until the 1st of December this year. He says the bill criminalises hate crimes and hate speech. Masutha says the proposed bill will elevate already existing crimes like assault to hate crimes if the offence is motivated by unlawful bias, prejudice or intolerance. Liela Magnus reports .....
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is expected to present his mid-term budget statement in the wake of declining government revenue and a pending court battle by the hawks. The finance minister is under pressure to walk a tight rope and demonstrate that government has been able to contain spending. Investors and rating agencies will also be keeping a close eye on his statement. Amina Accram reports ......
Police have opened a case of public violence after five vehicles were set alight at the Bellville campus of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. No one was injured during the fires and police say no one has been arrested as yet. The owner of one of the vehicles says he suspects a third force involvement in the incident. Mlamli Maneli reports...
UDM Chief Whip Nqabayomzi Kwankwa has appealed to young Parliamentarians to take the lead in seeking solutions to protests at institutions of higher learning over free education. Protests have erupted across the country in the past few weeks where some of the demonstrations turned violent. Kwankwa says young parliamentarians across the political spectrum should to get together and come up with a way forward in order to resolve the crisis. UDM Chief Whip Nqabayomzi Kwankwa has the details...
Metrorail says investigations are underway to establish the cause of the head-on train collision on the Tembisa line near Kaalfontein Gauteng's East Rand. One person has been killed and more than 100 injured. For more details, we spoke to Rail Safety Regulator Chief Executive Officer Nkululeko Poya...
An ANC Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (MPL) and a member of the Provincial Executive Committee, Molebatsi Bopape has been suspended with immediate effect. Parts of her ANC membership suspension are that she is not allowed to make public comments, take part in any activities of the ruling party and not even to enter any offices of the ANC, except when she has to attend to matters relating to her discipline. We caught up with her for more details....
Two people have been killed in gang related violence in the townships of eTwatwa and Daveyton on Gauteng's East Rand. Community members says groups of young men believed to be linked to gangsters have been on a rampage without any police intervention. We caught up with two community members for more details, (Thamba and Castro)
DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen has challenged ANC Chief Whip Jackson Mthembu and those ministers who are allegedly unhappy about the current state of the ANC, to support the DA's motion to remove President Jacob Zuma from office. This comes after Mthembu called on ANC NEC members to resign. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more..........
The ANC says Party Chief Whip Jackson Mthembu will not be removed from his position despite calls that he be axed. This follows Mthembu's calls for the entire ANC's National Executive Committee to step down. Mthembu says the party's leadership has messed up and should therefore take a collective fall and its reduced support in the August local elections was proof of this. Mthembu is also concerned about the pending fraud prosecution of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan which seems to be dividing the ANC. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports...
The Helen Suzman Foundation and Freedom Under Law have filled an urgent application to have the recent criminal charges against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan set aside. In a joint statement the two organisations say they have asked prosecuting boss Shaun Abrahams to give more information about the charges or to withdraw them voluntarily but he has failed to do so. The NPA has charged Gordhan and two former SARS officials for fraud. We are now joined on the line by legal researcher at the Helen Suzman Foundation, Piet Olivier
The ANC says Party Chief Whip Jackson Mthembu will not be removed from his position despite calls that he be axed. This follows Mthembu's calls for the entire ANC's National Executive Committee to step down. Mthembu says the party's leadership has messed up and should therefore take a collective fall and its reduced support in the August local elections was proof of this. Mthembu is also concerned about the pending fraud prosecution of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan which seems to be dividing the ANC. Political Analyst Ebrahim Fakir says on the other hand says, what Mthembu is calling for has nothing to do with the ANC as a party, but ANC as government....
The controversial Annual National Assessment (ANA) which the teacher's union SADTU has been fighting against has been cancelled. The Union says although it is pleased that the ANA will be replaced by a new systematic assessment, there are other outstanding issues that still need to be ironed out. We caught up with both the General Secretary of SADTU, Mugwena Maluleke and Basic education spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga....
Wits University spokesperson Shirona Patel has confirmed that student leader Shaeera Kalla was shot multiple times with rubber bullets and that she had been admitted to hospital. Several other students were also injured when they clashed with police while disrupting exams at the university's West Campus. Meanwhile, the South African Police Services have issued a statement concerning the matter. National police spokeswoman Brigadier Sally de Beer, says they are looking into the matter of an alleged shooting and any police officer found to have contravened the law will be dealt with accordingly. The ANC have called on the police to refrain from using maximum force. The party's national spokesperson Zizi Kodwa explains...
Former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, has clarified issues around the use of consultants and accepting donor funding. This comes after her successor, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, said she would change the way things are done during her time in office. She told Parliament's Justice committee that she would not source donor funding to protect the sovereignty of the office and they would use little or no consultants. Zalene Merrington reports..
The newly-appointed public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane says she is not in competition with her predecessor, Thuli Madonsela. This is in the wake of Mkhwebane's perceived public attacks on Madonsela during Wednesday's briefing in parliament when she was presenting her office's 2015/16 annual report. The report reveals donations from foreign NGOs to Madonsela's office which some MPs have perceived as controversial. Senior political journalist Amos Phago compiled this report.
Cabinet has called on protesting tertiary education students to save the 2016 academic year warning of the negative consequences to the economy if they do not do so. Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria yesterda following Wednesday's (19/10) meeting of the executive, Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe says that cabinet shares the sentiments of students on the high cost of education and through the Commission on Fees is seeking a long term solution. The executive also announced changes to the Interministerial Committee tasked with dealing with the challanges in Higher Education and has also expressed support for Finance Minister Gordhan regarding charges against him by the NDPP. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports....
The Africa Empowered investment company has proposed a nation-building fund - which will not be either a government or private sector fund - to assist with the current fees issue at tertiary institutions. This was revealed at a media briefing in Johannesburg yesterday. Vuyo Jack, chairman of Africa Empowered has the details...
The University of the Western Cape says there will be no further lectures on campus. However, alternative measures are being implemented. The decision follows ongoing protests. Yesterday major clashes between students and police took place and at least one student was arrested. Students were angered after management failed to attend a scheduled meeting.For more on the academic year we are joined on the line by UWC spokesperson, Luthando Tyhalibongo...
The Minister of Police has written a letter to Suspended IPID Head, Robert McBride, informing him that their work relationship is "irretrievably broken". In his statement, the minister further advised McBride to seek clarity from the Speaker of the National Assembly on where he needs to report for duty. McBride is due to report to duty today, after the Police's Portfolio Committee in Parliament did not proceed with plans to take disciplinary action against him. We spoke to the Spokesperson for the Minister of Police, Sandile Ngidi for more details...
South Africa is to use it's position in the International Atomic Energy Agency to advance the continent's development agenda. That's according to Pretoria's ambassador to Vienna, Tebogo Seokolo. Seokolo was appointed earlier this month to chair the strategic multi-lateral body, which has the responsibility to ensure the safe, peaceful use of nuclear technology. It's the first time since 1959, that a South African ambassador will chair the agency's board. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
A small group of student protesters have handed over an open letter to officials at the South African Consulate in New York.This in support of the protesting South African students demanding free quality higher education and the decolonization of tertiary institutions. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Hundreds of Mozambican nationals gathered at the heroes square in the country's capital city Maputo for the 30th commemoration of the death of president Samora Machel. President Machel and other officials were returning from a summit in Zambia when their plane crashed at Mbuzini village near the border of Mozambique and Swaziland south east of Mpumalanga. Machel and 34 others were killed. Vusi Twala reports..
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at mixed Asian markets that are mostly down as oil declines from lack of demand, Chinese data struggles to provide certainty as it highlights growth concerns and why China has technically over taken US as the largest economy
The Portfolio Committee on Energy has sent senior management of the Department of Energy packing after they failed to present a comprehensive report on the forensic investigation into the loss of R14.5 billion at Petro-SA. In the 2014/15 financial year, Petro-SA had reported a loss of R14.5 billion. This was due in part to the non-performance Project Ikhwezi, a gas-replenishing programme at Mosgas. The department said Minister of Energy Tina Joematt-Pettersson is required by law to make recommendations on the report before it is made public. Members were unhappy with the explanation and insisted the department go away and come back next month with the required report. The 14-billion rand loss was the biggest to date incurred by any state-owned enterprise. Abongwe Kobokana reports...
Students at the University of Pretoria have accused police of targeting their leaders in an attempt to end the FeesMustFall protests. UP student leader Rasethaba Mosibudi was arrested and appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate court on Tuesday. The situation remains clam at the university as the police and private security are maintaining a heavy presence on campus where access is under strict control. Classes have been suspended at the Tshwane University of Technology after student groups threatened disruptions. Phil Moyana reports...
Head of Strategic Research-Nedbank CIB, Mohammed Nalla looks at SA markets as Chinese GDP rises by 6.7%, inline with expectations, US and U.K. Inflation rises as global trends show uptick in prices and all eyes on SA inflation numbers to be released today which are expected to move back above 6%
Former President Kgalema Motlanthe says addressing the material conditions of all South Africans is the key to combating racism. Motlanthe was speaking at the Hashtag Reporting Race Conference taking place in Auckland Park Johannesburg. The conference focuses on how to report on race - exploring freedom of expression and censorship in terms eradicating racism. Among those attending are struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada and Judge Albie Sachs. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports...
Eleven people have been arrested at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville campus and eight of them are not students. Police and the university security personnel raided the student residence blocks to conduct search and seizure operations. Yesterday students stoned passing cars and also threw petrol bombs at the police. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
The Durban High court has ruled in favour of Vela Shembe as the leader of the Nazareth Baptist Church, also known as Shembe. Vela suceeds the late leader Vimbeni Shembe. The court ruled that Vimbeni nominated his cousin as his successor to lead the congregation, and not his son, Mduduzi. The court has also ruled that the eBuhleni faction must pay all legal costs for the court action. Ebuhleni has filed an application for leave to appeal the matter. Social media was also abuzz about the matter. Nonjabulo Mntungwa filed this report.
The tragic death of former President of Mozambique Samora Machel along with 34 other passengers in October 1986, has been described as a strong fountain for a democratic Africa. Thousands gathered in Mbuzini yesterday to commemorate 30 years since the passing of the liberation struggle hero. His son Samora Machel Junior paid tribute to his father and those who died with him. Abongile Dumako reports....
The 30th commemoration of the death of Mozambican President Samora Machel was characterised by the showcasing of the diverse traditions of both Mozambique and South Africa. Dignitaries, ordinary people and traditional dancers came together at the Samora Machel Monument in Mbuzini, Mpumalanga, to celebrate the life of the late freedom fighter. Vusi Twala filed this report.....
Western Cape MEC for Education, Debbie Shafer, has come under heavy criticism for a proposed amendment to the province's education act that would allow schools to sell alcohol at functions to assist with fund raising. We are now joined on the line by Western Cape MEC for Education, Debbie Shafer...
Corruption Watch and Right 2 Know have lodged an application in the Pretoria High Court to ask the court to review and set aside the findings of the Arms Procurement Commission, or Seriti commission. The commission investigated allegations of corruption in the 1999 arms deal, which cost the country billions of rands. Corruption Watch says the commission has failed in its mandate to fully investigate and uncover the truth. Joining us on the line is Leanne Govindsamy, head of legal and investigations at Corruption Watch...
Former SARS commissioners who were charged with fraud wants their charges reviewed. Ivan Pillay and Oupa Magashula have requested the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to review their charges. Their charges, along with those against the Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, relate to a pension pay out that Pillay received when he resigned from SARS. The Spokesperson for the NPA, Advocate Luvuyo Mfaku has the details...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets edging higher as oil reserves suffered losses, Pharmacy group, Dischem is planning to list on the JSE in the food and drug retailers sectors and Public Investment Corporation has just bought 68% of Sacoil and investors are worried about the decision
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at mixed US economic data weighing on the dollar and helped the rand regain some composure, Gold rallied off session lows on the back of the weaker dollar but focus shifts to the ECB meeting this week and Netflix stock soars over 20% as subscribers rise on global expansion
President of Progressive Professionals Forum Mzwanele manyi tells AMLive anchor Sakina Kamwendo that the former Public Protector Adv Thuli Madeonsela's report on #StateCapture is nothing but a collation of information. the report should be preserved forever and ever and ever.
Fees Must Fall protests flared up again at Wits University last night with students defying a curfew. The institution implemented the 10pm to 6am curfew on Friday in an attempt to curb night time violence. This as Fees must fall leader and former Wits University SRC president, Mcebo Dlamini is expected to appear in the Hillbrow Magistrate's Court this morning, following his arrest at the university's residence in Parktown. For more on this we are joined on the line by Wits Spokesperson, Shirona Patel...
The DA has laid charges of corruption against Atul Gupta, Ajay Gupta and Duduzane Zuma. This follows revelation by the Minister of Finance; Pravin Gordhan in court papers that the Guptas controlled companies allegedly was involved in 72 suspicious transactions. The DA says it wants further investigations into possible exchange-control violations, as well as an investigation into the purchase of the Optimum Coal Mine owned by the Guptas. DA Shadow Minister of Finance, David Maynier joined us for more details together with the attorney representing the Gupta family, Gert van der Merwe.
Another shutdown of services in Vuwani, Limpopo is looming this after the community gave government until January next year to complete the process of re-determination of boundaries in the area. The resolution was taken at a meeting between the Pro-Makhado Demarcation Task Team and the residents at a local sports ground, where it gave communities feedback on the re-determination of boundaries by the Municipal Demarcation Board. For more on this we are joined on the line by the Pro-Makhado Demarcation Task Team Spokesperson, Nsovo Sambo...
ANC Youth League president Collins Maine is once again in hot water. He's accused of inciting violence. COPE has opened a case at the Garsfontein police station in Pretoria against him. This follows his utterances at a pro- Zuma rally in Durban on Saturday, where he called on the MK Military Veterans to take up arms and defend president Jacob Zuma. Phanuel Shuma reports...
The South African Communist Party, SACP, has appealed to National Prosecuting Authority head, Shaun Abrahams to immediately drop what they called senseless charges against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan. SACP has become the government-aligned party to suggest that the charges are a political plot to remove Gordhan from Treasury. Speaking in Klerksdorp in the North West, SACP deputy-secretary, Solly Mapaila says Gordhan is standing on the way of looters who have their sight set on treasury coughers. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi has the details for us....
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets low as the US dollar strengthens following US Federal Reserve Chair, Janet Yellen, BRICS nations in India have consolidated efforts against terrorism and have welcomed the new UN general Secretary, António Guterres and Naspers polishes off Allegro for over 3 billion dollar
The SAGA around Finance Minister continues as political risks remain top of local agenda, Fed Char Janet Yellend's comments on Friday abot the possibility to let inflation rung higher and keep rates lower for longer and CPI data to be released on Wednesday locally as well as Chinese GDP numbers which will be the focus for the week.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which traded narrowly mixed this morning, hinese September exports affect emerging markets including SA and S&P Africa head warns that it is not business as usual in South Africa ...
Gold worth more than seven billion rands is stolen and smuggled out of the country every year. This was revealed by Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources Godfrey Oliphant who was addressing the NCOP during a debate on illegal mining in the country. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more...........
The EFF has vowed to intensify it's campaign for free education and against the Gupta family and president Jacob Zuma. The party has announced plans to support the ongoing students protests - insisting that the country has the means to make free education possible. The EFF has also once again called for the immediate resignation of president Zuma and says that prosecution boss Shaun Abrahams must go with him. Senior political journalist Amos Phago has the story.
Classes have been suspended at the Westville campus of the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Police have used teargas and rubber bullets to disperse protesting students. Meanwhile, only four out of eleven people being prosecuted after the Fees Must Fall protests in Pietermaritzburg, have been granted bail. Seven students will remain behind bars until the end of their trial.. Fanele Mhlongo compiled this report....
Public Protector Thuli Madonsela is weighing her legal options after President Jacob Zuma applied for an interdict in a last-minute attempt to stop her from releasing a preliminary report on alleged state capture. Madonsela is due to hold a news conference today (14/10/16) on the day that she steps down. Zuma wants to stop Madonsela from releasing details that the Gupta family allegedly used their access to him to influence government policy and the appointment of ministers and directors of state-owned enterprises. For more on this we spoke to Kgalalelo Masibi, who is the Spokesperson for the Public Protector together with Lawyer Gert van der Merwe, who represents Ajay Gupta and Attorney Tyrone Maseko, a Criminal Lawyer with T.Maseko Attorneys
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets as they were mixed following Chinese markets shrug of weak China trade data, PSG Group to invest in private universities and the S&P 500 coming to SA...
The situation remains tense at the University of KwaZulu-Natal as some students continue boycotting classes while non-striking students try by all means to attend their classes. There has been another fire at one of the residences on the Pietermaritzburg campus. Parts of the council chamber offices were torched and a small portion of the television room at the Malherbe residence was also set alight. Both fires were extinguished by the university security staff. Meanwhile, three UKZN students from the Pietermaritzburg campus have appeared in the local magistrates court facing charges of public violence. Nonkululeko Hlophe compiled this report
The situation remains tense at the University of KwaZulu-Natal as some students continue boycotting classes while non-striking students try by all means to attend their classes. There has been another fire at one of the residences on the Pietermaritzburg campus. Parts of the council chamber offices were torched and a small portion of the television room at the Malherbe residence was also set alight. Both fires were extinguished by the university security staff. Meanwhile, three UKZN students from the Pietermaritzburg campus have appeared in the local magistrates court facing charges of public violence. Meanwhile, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)'s Spokesperson Lauren Kansley says the University has suspended its operations until further notice. She joins us on the line now to give us an update. We also caught up with the students at the TUT Main Campus who say they would like to continue with studies while negotiations with management are taking place. The SRC Campus Secretary, Vanessa Matlabegoane has the details...
Barely a day after serving fraud charges against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan , National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams says he won't hesitate to review the charges should Gorhan himself make an application review for such determination. Fending off the barrage of questions from members of the portfolio committee on justice in parliament, Abrahams was at pain telling MPs that it was not his decision to lay charges against Gordhan and two former South African Revenue Services officials Ivan Pillay and Oupa Magashule. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report.
A man who is alleged to have shot dead three people at Pretoria East security estate has killed himself. The man was found dead in his Meadows estate in Moreleta Park, Pretoria after he held hostage two police officers and three security guards. The motive for his shooting spree is still unknown. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
A noble cause initiated by university students has turned into chaos through the destruction of property during their protests. However, at one point in time students were united in song at Wit's University's Solomon Mahlangu Hall...have a listen...
The news of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan recieving summons to appear in court rattled the markets. The rand weakened by three percent to the US Dollar, with the financial stocks the hardest hit following the news. Gordhan was about to deliver a keynote speech at a conference of the Gauteng provincial government in Johannesburg when he learned that a summons had been delivered at his house today. Tshepo Mongoai reports
Outgoing Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela and President Jacob Zuma appear to be locked in a standoff over the probe into allegations of State Capture by the Gupta family. Madonsela is probing the alleged involvement of the family in the dismissal and appointment of cabinet ministers and State Owned Enterprise Board of directors. The family is suspected of using its proximity to the president to improperly influence the awarding of state contracts. However both the Presidency and the Office of the Public Protector don't seem to be able to agree on how the investigation should proceed. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is not above the law and he ought to humble himself by facing all allegations against him in the courts of law. This is the majority view held by political parties represented in parliament. Their mixed reactions were responses to what they described as shocking charges against Gordhan. While they sympathised and have confident on the innocence of the minister, members of parliament were very smart at making sure that the rule of law cannot be surpassed by emotional expressions. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report
The Commission investigating the commercialisation of religion has found that many South African churches are selling religion to desperate and vulnerable people. It says the majority of churches do not abide by the country's laws. The Commission has recommended that all religious institutions be registered and affiliated to some regulatory body to be established immediately. Senior journalist Thabile Mbhele reports
Strategist at ETF SA Nerina Visser breaks downs the implications of the market-moving story of the day was the summons issued to finance minister Pravin Ghordan on fraud charges.
Market Analyst, Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETF looks at one of the big movers yesterday, oil price which moved in a direction that we don't particularly like, which is up and the Chinese market which was closed for the entire week last week for the so-called Golden Week Holiday and all eyes were on their currency, the yuan...
President Jacob Zuma arrives in Kenya on Monday for a three-day state visit. During his visit, Zuma will hold talks with Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta on a wide range of bilateral issues and also attend a joint South Africa - Kenya business summit. Our reporter in Kenya Sarah Kimani spoke to Dr Bongani Ngqulunga - President Zuma's spokesperson - ahead of the visit.
The council of Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape has taken a decision to re-open the university on Wednesday to continue with the academic programme. The special council meeting was convened to discuss all problems besieging the university including the demands of the students. The management shut the university after students boycotted classes for more than three weeks. Makhaya Komisa reports...
It is not clear whether academic programme will resume at Wits university this morning. This after clashes broke out between police and the students at the main campus in Braamfontein before setting alight a bus on the streets of Braamfontein. Police are yet to give the exact number of students arrested. However the students have vowed to shut down the university until their demand for free higher education is met. Protest action has entered it's fourth week now and there's been minimal teaching and learning. University management took a decision over the weekend to resume with the academic programme yesterday (monday). Students attacked police and private security with rocks and stones. Ditaba Tsotetsi filed this report...
Chaos broke out at Wits University's main campus where students clashed with the police and private security yesterday. Protesting students disrupted the academic programme and vowed to shut down the university until their demand for free quality higher education is met. By evening the protest had spilled over into surrounding areas outside the Braamfontein campus. A group of protesters pelted a sporting goods store with rocks. We caught up with our reporter Sashi Naidoo for the latest updates, including Wits spokesperson Shirona Patel. We also touched based with UCT and the North West University...
A total of sixty-six police officers who have been involved in crime have been dismissed. The Gauteng police say forty two of those officers were involved in among other things, housebreaking, theft and possession of stolen motor vehicles. To get a reaction on this we spoke to the Deputy President of South African Police Union, Tumi Mogodiseng -
President Jacob Zuma will have the last face to face meeting with outgoing Public Protector Advocate Thuli Madonsel today, to wrap up an interview on the alleged "state capture". Madonsela is hoping to wrap up her investigation into the alleged involvement of the wealth GUPTA family in the appointment and dismissal of cabinet ministers and members of boards of state owned enterprises. Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
Thousands of students of the Mahikeng Campus of the North West University started trickling in, in preparation for the re-opening of the new semester today.The campus was closed a month ago following fees related protests. Student residences were opened yesterday* after being closed for what authorities said was for security and safety of the students. Dyaell Gaetsewe reports.....
Wits University management has called on stakeholders including students to heed the call to resume with this year's academic programme this morning. The university has been marred by a series of violent protests in recent weeks, which led to the institution suspending learning and teaching. Students are demanding free higher education. Meanwhile the university's Student Representative Council has threatened violent protests if management goes ahead with a pledge to reopen the institution Wits University spokesperson Shirona Patel
Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump clashed in a heated second U.S. Presidential debate that began be delving into the remarks made by the Republican nominee on an audio video tape about groping women. Trump responded by accusing Clinton of smearing women who HAVE accused her husband, former President Bill Clinton of sexual abuse or harassment. Moderators had a tough time asking Mr Trump on several occasions not to interrupt his opponent as they eventually touched on issues of governance, including how to address Islamophobia, refugees entering the country and appointments to the Supreme Court amongst others. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports from New York.
A private funeral service, to be attended by family and close friends, will be held this week for the woman who accused President Jacob Zuma of rape in 2005. Fezekile Ntsukela Kuzwayo, commonly known as Khwezi, died at a Johannesburg hospital on Saturday. She had been living with HIV/Aids for 26 years. Zuma was charged with her rape in December 2005, but was acquitted due to lack of proof. Neliswa Mavundla reports...
As the spotlight shines on Wits University over the fess must fall protest, we also checked for the latest updates from the university of Zululand were supporting staff has been on a strike for weeks...
AMCU President Joseph Mathunjwa has called on mining companies to pay mineworkers a living wage. Mathunjwa was speaking at the Johannesburg Mining Indaba yesterday. Tshepo Mongoai reports..
The Higher Education Department has established a task team that will develop policy on how tertiary institutions should deal with issues of rape and other gender based violence within its institutions. The 16-member team will comprise students, university staff, police and justice officials. The task team's establishment is in response to the cries of students who accuse universities of failing to respond appropriately to incidents of gender based violence. Noma Bolani reports...
SABC board Chairperson Professor Mbulaheni Maguvhe says he will not step down from his position, regardless of an inquiry into the affairs of the SABC. He was speaking at a media briefing held in Auckland park - Johannesburg. This following the SABC Board and senior executive management appearing before the Parliamentary portforlio committee on communications. Sashin Naidoo reports...
The Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu turns 85 today. Pakistani human rights' lawyer, and well-known pro-democracy campaigner, Advocate Hina Jilani, will deliver the key-note address in Cape Town at the sixth annual Desmond Tutu lecture tonight to celebrate his Tutu's birthday. Advocate Jilani says she grew up observing the Archbishop Emiritus Desmond Tutu and was always impressed with his performance at various international events. Here is our tribute to uTat'Tutu...
The annual Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture has been moved from the University of the Western Cape to the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town due to concerns relating to ongoing student protests. Pakistani human rights advocate Hina Jilani will deliver the lecture tonight to celebrate Tutu's 85th birthday. The Tibetan spritual leader the Dalai Lama launched the lecture in 2011. Executive Director of the Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation, the Reverend Mpho Tutu, says they hope to back at the UWC next year. From our side though, here is our tribute to uTat'Tutu...
The academic programme at Wits University in Johannesburg is set to resume next Monday. This is after more than two weeks of disruptions by protesting students. On Wednesday, a group of students calling for the resumption of the academic programme, held a silent protest. But they were chased away by a group wanting the shutdown to continue. Noma Bolani report...
The SABC will soon get a new board. This is after parliament's Communications Committee took a unanimous decision that the current board has failed to carry out its mandate and therefore needs to be dissolved.On Wednesday, the committee called the board to account on various issues, including the appointment of Hlaudi Motsoeneng first as COO and then as Group Executive for Corporate Affairs. Joseph Mosia reports...
Anglo Gold Ashanti CEO, Sipho Pityana did not mince his words in his scorn of President Jacob Zuma at the Johannesburg Mining Indaba on Wednesday. Pityana maintained his calls that South African business and civil society demand that Zuma resigns. Our reporter Tshepo Mongoai has more...
Market analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian markets and investments on the continent
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan has called the Hawks investigation "mischief in the real sense" adding that it was not doing the country any favours. Speaking to SABCNews in New York ahead of the South Africa Tomorrow Investor Conference, he said that everyone concerning the Hawks SARS investigation, knows there's nothing to investigate and the sooner it's put to bed, the better for the country. The Finance Minister is leading a high powered government, labour and business delegation to the conference, now in its fourth year and driven by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, that has seen overwhelming interest from American investors who have oversubscribed for the event. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports from New York:
The Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape has obtained an interim eviction order against its students refusing to vacate its residences. The university approached the Eastern Cape High Court in Bhisho seeking a legal eviction order after a number of students refused to vacate residences following a decision to close down the institution . However the order further says that the institution will have to provide a reasonable alternative accommodation before evicting the students. Makhaya Komisa has more ...
University of Cape Town vice-chancellor, Max Price, says Government has missed an opportunity to resolve the crisis in national education. He says failure to continue with academic processes for this year would have disastrous consequences for the university. Dr. Price was addressing the media on the ongoing student protest over higher education fees. Mlamli Maneli reports...
The University of the Witwatersrand will remain closed until Friday. This about turn of events follows a meeting, both Wits management and student representatives. Chaos broke out at the university yesterday after police released rubber bullets, and stune grenades on students. We spoke to Advocate Dali Mpofu on his visit to Wits
Chaos erupted once again at Wits university's main campus yesterday as police fired stun grenades to disperse protesting students. This after a group of students began protesting in front of the campus's Great Hall. The protest action came as lectures resumed at the university following an online poll in which more than 70 percent of students voted for lectures to resume this week. Ditaba Tsotetsi filed this report..
There has been no progress at the controversial Rustenburg Local Municipality in North-West to resolve the stand-off between the ruling ANC and opposition parties. Following the day-long debates yesterday, on the legitimacy of several executive positions, the discussions where thrown into turmoil when the ANC Mayor, Chief Whip and Speaker decided to resign. The ANC says they mandated them to resign to avoid a tedious legal battle with the opposition. This is after the EFF and the DA threatened to approach the courts. Dyaell Gaetsewe reports...
University student leaders who attended the Multi Stakeholder Forum on Universities hosted by the Higher Education Department refused to adopt the event's declaration. Stakeholders which included government, the students, parents, university management and civil society were engaged in dialogue on the current funding crisis faced by poor university students in South Africa. The Forum also tackled the issue of violent protests and disruption of academic activities on campuses. Noma Bolani reports...
A family in Koster in the North West is loosing hope of ever seeing their eleven-year-old daughter again. Queen Mammie Nebe was sent to the shop by her father two weeks ago and never returned. Her family is devastated. Bafedile Moerane compiled this report.....
The ANC has vowed to halt the electoral decline, reclaim lost ground and restore the trust and confidence of the people by rooting out corruption within its ranks. This emerged at the end of its three-day National Executive Committee held at the weekend in Pretoria. The party identified factionalism, disunity and corruption as some of the factors that have contributed to its loss of electoral support in the last local elections. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more.
President Jacob Zuma is meeting with justice crime prevention and security cluster to discuss ongoing violent students protests at several universities in the country. Students at this institution have been protesting for two weeks over the 2017 fee increment, as announced by Higher education minister Blade Nzimande last week. President Zuma instructed the JCPS to deal with the mayhem at tertiary institutions due to due the violent nature of the protests which have already claimed the live of a Wits university staff member. Minister in the presidency Jeff Radebe announced the urgent meeting during a post cabinet media briefing which also communicated some key decision by the executive. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
The South African National Editors Forum (Sanef) has welcomed the ruling of the Supreme Court of Appeal declaring the signal jamming during last year's State of the Nation Address unlawful. The court also ruled that Parliament's broadcasting policy and rules are unconstitutional because they violate the right to an open Parliament. We are now joined on the line by Sanef executive director Mathatha Tsedu
Wits University students have called on government to offer mining companies incentives that will encourage them to invest more in tertiary education. This is contained in the student's demands handed over to the Chamber of Mines following their march to the chamber's offices in the Johannesburg CBD yesterday (Wednesday). About 5-hundred students marched ot the Chamber demanding financial support for tertiary education. Noma Bolani reports...
Zimbabwe's constitutonal court has dismissed an application by the country's former vice president Joice Mujuru on government's proposed surrogate currency. Mujuru had gone to court arguing that plans to introduce a local bank notes were illegal and infringed on citizens rights. The Reserve Bank has announced it will introduce local notes of similar value to the US dollar by the end of October. Shingai Nyoka reports...
The ANC chief whip in Parliament, Jackson Mthembu, says the SABC board has failed spectacularly in exercising its fiduciary obligations towards the broadcaster. This follows an announcement that the board has reappointed the previous COO, Hlaudi Motsoeneng, as Group Executive: Corporate Affairs. Mthembu addressed journalists in Parliament. Zalene Merrington reports...
Grahamstown police have arrested several Rhodes University students during a violent protest over tuition fees. Police used rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse the protesting students for allegedly vandalising property and blocking roads. A video posted to Twitter by the Grahamstown based student publication Oppidan Press, shows police dragging one student into a police van while other students were being shot at (CLIP) We also caught up with Rhodes University's Vice Chancellor Professor, Sizwe Mabizela for the latest updates...
Former SABC Chief Operations officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng has been moved back to his old position of Group Executive for Corporate affairs. SABC board chairperson Professor Mbulaheni Maguvhe made the announcement at a media briefing yesterday (tuesday 27 September ). The Supreme Court of Appeal recently dismissed Motsoeneng's application for leave to appeal a ruling that his permanent appointment as COO was unlawful and irrational. Ditaba Tsotetsi compiled this report.
The University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape has called on all students who want to resume their academic programme to report for class this morning ( Wednesday 28 September 2016). In a statement, the university's management warned that failure by students to return will result in a shut down of all campuses and students will have to leave the residences. For more on this we are joined on the line by University of Fort Hare Vice Chancellor, Dr Mvuyo Tom. Meanwhile, students have vowed to continue boycotting classes despite the call to return to class. We caught with both Dr Tom and SRC memmber, Thandikhaya Mathokazi...
Most black-owned companies will soon benefit fully from government's Broad Based Economic Empowerment objectives. President Jacob Zuma says government has decided to repeal the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act, called the triple-PFA law. He was addressing the Black Business Council gala dinner in Sandton north of Johannesburg last night. The triple-PFA law stipulates that when government procures services, it should first consider companies with proven track records, which most black companies do not have. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
As World Green Building Week raises awareness around green buildings and the role they play in our sustainable future, green construction and renewable energy group STAG African has called on the construction industry to commit to building offices, homes, hospitals and schools that protect and preserve natural resources. The group says buildings consume one third of the world's energy and are responsible for one fifth of global emissions. We are now joined on the line by Director of STAG African John Schooling
UDM President General Bantu Holomisa wants all Political Parties to meet urgently to review the structure of the IEC. This follows allegations that ANC Secretary General Gwede Mantashe and his Deputy Jessie Duarte have labelled IEC's Deputy Chairperson Terry Tselane an enemy of the ANC. General Bantu Holomisa joins us on the line to tell us more.
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has explained its decision to back Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa to succeed President Jacob Zuma as leader of the ANC. NUM is the first Cosatu union to publicly pronounce on its preferred successor to head the governing party, which is due to hold an elective conference next year. Ramaphosa was the union's founding Secretary General in the early 1980s. Top NUM official David Sipunzi gives their reasons for supporting him for the ANC's top job...
The South African National Blood Service is in need of urgent blood supply. The Blood services says the recent protest action at universities has negatively affected their drive to collect blood from students. Spokesperson for the South African National Blood Service, Vanessa Raju joins us on the line to tell us more
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan says he has a feeling something bad is about to happen in the country. Gordhan was speaking at a Heritage Day Dinner hosted by the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation in Johannesburg over the weekend. Thandeka Gqubule-Mbeki reports...
Out-going Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, says she will hand over at least two hundred high profile cases to her successor next month. This is when her seven-year non-renewable term comes to an end. Madonsela has been investigating the Gupta family, for their alleged state capture, and has also looked into into the controversial North West mining account, known as the D-account. Mining houses have been depositing millions of rands into the account, as royalties for the communities on whose land they operate. At least half a billion rand is missing and unaccounted for. Our reporter, Lucas Mothibedi, caught-up with her during her recent visit to the North West University in Mahikeng...
Two staff cars have been set alight during a student protest at the University of Pretoria. It is alleged the fire was caused by petrol bomb that was thrown by an unknown person. This after the university management decided to close the institution until next month. Operations at Tshwane University of Technology all campuses, except Mbombela in Mpumalanga nd Polokwane in Limpopo, have been suspended. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences university has suspended operations since last week Thursday. Phil Moyane reports
Wits University students have accused the institution of planting three petrol bombs that were found on the Braamfontein campus in Johannesburg yesterday, to intimidate them. They say the university has threatened to shut down the students residences, a move which could lead to chaos. The students also say the university has been mum on their demand for free education. For the latest we spoke to spokesperson for the South African Union of Students Sbusiso Thwala and Wits VC, Professor Adam Habib
The ANC Youth League has challenged Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan to divulge whether he has shares in private companies which do business with State Owned Enterprises. Speaking after its two-day National Executive Committee meeting in Johannesburg, yesterday, the League lambasted Gordhan for acting as if he is the only member of government who is fighting crime. It urged him to account to the Hawks about his role with the so-called SARS rogue unit. The League has also thrown its weight behind SABC Acting COO Hlaudi Motseoneng and has also fingered the possible source of the escalating violence at universities over next year's fee increase. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports...
43 people, 19 of whom are children, will be homeless if the court enforces an eviction order against them. An NGO representing 23 families from Bromwell Street in Woodstock in Cape Town, will be launching an urgent application in the Cape Town High Court today. They want to force the City of Cape Town to arrange temporary accommodation for the families. Mandisa Shandu, an attorney representing the families and a Co-Director at the Ndifuna Ukwazi Law Centre, joins us on the line to tell us more.
ANC struggle veteran Winnie Madikizela-Mandela says the Freedom Charter's clause on free education needs to be revisited. Madikizela-Mandela was reacting to the country-wide protests by university students over possible fee increases for 2017 during a meeting with young people in Soweto. In 1955, the Freedom Charter promised that doors of learning shall be opened to all. And the ANC's 2007 Polokwane conference pledged free education for all poor learners until their first degree. But Madikizela-Mandela says making this a reality now appears impossible. Ntebo Mokobo report
As global conservationists and policy makers gather in Johannesburg for the 'Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species' or CITES conference tomorrow (saturday 25 September), Embryo Plus has announced its success with the world's first Cape buffalo calf conceived through in vitro fertilisation. The calf was born in June on a farm in Limpopo. The organisation says this brings hope for species that are endangered. We are now joined on the line by managing director of Embryo Plus, Dr Morné de la Rey
The University of KwaZulu-Natal's Pietermaritzburg campus has been closed after a stand-off between the police and students. One student was seriously injured. The students threw stones at police and police retaliated with rubber bullets and teargas. Students went on the rampage to protest against the government's proposed fee increases for next year. They are demanding that education should be free in their lifetime. Cyril Mnguni reports
A call for the sharing of land among all South Africans, the removal of colonial statues from Parliament and tributes to Kwaito star Mduduzi Mandoza Tshabalala, were some of the issues that surfaced during the Heritage Day Debate in the Nation Council of Provinces today (thursday 22 September). Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
SABC Non-Executive board member Krish Naidoo says he stands by his decision not to endorse any moves to re-appoint Hlaudi Motsoeneng as the public broadcaster's acting Chief Operating Officer. This follows media reports that the SABC board is considering a proposal to re-instate Motsoeneng in his original position as Acting COO. The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein threw out his application for leave to appeal a high court ruling that his appointment to the post by Communication's Minister Faith Muthambi was irrational and should be set aside. Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
Eskom CEO, Brian Molefe wants prepaid electricity to be standardised. He was addressing members of parliament yesterday and says introducing legislation on prepaid metering would solve Eskom's problems. But not all South Africans are in favour of this. Residents of Orlando in Soweto protested against prepaid electricity earlier in the week. We spoke to Seth Mazibuko, a representative from the Orlando Task Team and Eskom's Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe....
Arts and Culture Minister, Nathi Mthethwa has described the late Mandoza as a giant and a social unifier He was speaking at the memorial service of the Kwaito music legend at the Ellis park arean in Johannesburg. The award-winning artist - whose real name is Mduduzi Tshabalala - died on Sunday from cancer. He was 38-years-old. Mthethwa says Mandoza's music touched everyone locally and abroad. Noma Bolani reports...
At least ten Wits University students have been wounded following clashes with security personnel. Two of the wounded have been admitted to hospital. More than 30 students remain at the Hillbrow police station. They were arrested as they attempted to disrupt academic activities. Protesting students have refused to disclose what they intend to do next, saying that would jeopardise their goal to achieve free education. Yesterday, clashes ensued between students and university security who had prevented them from gaining access into a building where they were scheduled to meet. Ditaba Tsotetsi was there and compiled this report...
The fees must fall protest has also spilled over into the Eastern Cape. In Port Elizabeth, students shut down the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University's main campus, forcing the management to suspended all academic activities. Students from Walter Sisulu University have rejected Minister Blade Nzimande's announcement on fees yesterday, while those from Fort Hare gave the institution 48 hours to make a decision. Mcebisi Ngqina reports...
Rating agency Moody's has commended government for its commitment to fiscal consolidation. The global rating agency says some good work has also been done in addressing problems facing the country's State-owned enterprises. But it has also issued a strong warning against the slow pace of labour liberalization and the possible fiscal repercussions from the fees-must-fall demonstrations. Tshepo Mongoai reports….
The University of the Free State says that classes will be suspended until Friday. This follows student protests after the Higher Education Minister said universities could increase their fees by no more than eight percent next year. Students are demanding no increases and want the government to intervene. Aphumelele Mdlalane reports...
A large group of students have blockaded the main entrance of the Wits university main campus in Braamfontein Johannesburg. This follows Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande's announcement of an 8% cap on fee increases for universities. We ealier on spoke to our reporter, Sashin Naidoo at wits university
Students at the University of Fort Hare in Alice in the Eastern Cape have called for a stay away from classes today. This follows the announcements made by higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande over the fees must fall demands. We spoke to SRC leader at the university, Luxolo Nqala...
A large group of students have blockaded the main entrance of the Wits university main campus in Braamfontein Johannesburg. This follows Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande's announcement of an 8% cap on fee increases for universities. We spoke to our reporter, Sashin Naidoo who was on the scenne...
Famous kwaito musician Mduduzi Tshabalala, popularly known as Mandoza had died. The 38-year-old lost his battle against cancer yesterday afternoon while he was being transported to hospital. Despite being ill, the defiant multi-award winning Nkalakhatha hitmaker recently performed at the SABC's Thank You concert at Orlando Stadium in Soweto. He was one of the 100 local musicians who performed in celebration of 90-percent local music content on the public broadcaster's radio stations. Neliswa Mavundla and Wisani Makhubele ( Eng & Tsonga) compiled this report....
Tributes continue to pour in for the late Kwaito legend Mandoza who died yesterday. Mandoza, whose real name is Mduduzi Tshabalala had been battling with brain cancer. The 38-year-old performed at the SABC's Thank You Concert at Orlando Stadium in Soweto last weekend. We are now joined on the line by Mandoza's manager Kevin Ntaopane
The Democratic Alliance says it is concerned about the manner in which SARS Commissioner, Tom Moyane handled the matter of Jonas Makwakwa. Makwaka who is the Chief Officer of Business, Individual Taxes and Digital Information Systems at SARS. He allegedly received suspicious and unusual payments into his bank account to the amount of 1, 2 million rands, between 2010 and 2016. ny official who holds a position of authority is obliged to report any criminal conduct, according to terms of section 34 of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities (Precca) Act. What are the implication if the officials contravene the act? To discuss the implications of this matter we're now joined on the line by constitutional expert Pierre de Vos,
Cabinet has once again condemned the destruction of university property by students protesting for no-fee increases. Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe says these are criminal acts and that they undermine genuine demands of the students. In a post cabinet media briefing in Cape Town, Radebe also informed journalists that cabinet has been subpoenaed by the Public Protector to hand over declarations of ministers. Joseph Mosia reports
Some political parties in Parliament and members of the Public have expressed different views on whether they believe president Jacob Zuma is being abused by MPs in the National Assembly. The President recently asked the National Assembly to look into how Parliamentarians relate to him whenever he is invited to answer oral questions. Mercedes Besent reports.
The 2016 Economic freedom of the world report released yesterday shows that South Africa has dropped twelve places in the rankings to 105th out of 159 countries. The report published by the Fraser Institute in Vancouver, indicates that the country scores badly in the areas of cost of tax compliance, credit market relations as well as inflation amongst other factors. Morafe Tabane reports...
Zimbabwe says no one will be forced to trade in the new local bank notes. The country's central bank is forging ahead with plans to introduce the US dollar pegged currency by October the 31st. This is despite public protests against it. The notes will be introduced into the economy as an export incentive targeting mainly gold miners and tobacco farmers Shingai Nyoka reports from Harare...
Struggle icon, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, has been showered with accolades at her 80-th birthday party in Cape Town. Dignitaries from all walks of life attended the glamorous affair at the Mount Nelson hotel. Guests included various cabinet ministers like Malusi Gigaba and Dr. Blade Nzimande as well as EFF leader, Julius Malema and Cape Town mayor, Patricia de Lille. This report by Zalene Merrington...
The Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi has asked the Office of health Ombuds to investigate allegations that 36 psychiatric patients in Gauteng died after transferred from Life Health Care, Esidimeni into care of Non-governmental organizations early this year. We have here in studio by Christine Nxumalo who lost her sister while Nomvula Nonjase's sister was transferred from Life Healthcare Esidimeni and relocated to an NGO in Fochville. She escaped several times and now Nomvula fears soon her sister would be roaming the streets of Johannesburg. Meanwhile, the president of the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA), Professor Anthony Pillay warned that South Africa did not have the resources for community care.
President Jacob Zuma says he is concerned about what he terms "the abuse" that he experiences each time he addresses the National Assembly. President Jacob Zuma has once again decried humiliation he faces in parliament every time he answers questions. This follows his oral question session in the National Assembly yesterday, where he was heckled by EFF and Cope MP's. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports..
Voices calling for President Jacob Zuma to complete his term of office are starting to emerge. This follows a wave of calls for his resignation after the damning Constitutional Court decision against him in March and the poor showing of the ANC in the local government elections. The Black Business Council and civil society group Black Land First have come out this week in defence of President Zuma, citing his efforts to transform the economy. The campaign to topple the President however is still underway with Anglo Gold Ashanti chairperson, Sipho Pityana, leading the charge in mobilising the business sector, as Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports..
This week marks twenty years since rapper Tupac Shakur was murdered. The rapper was shot dead on the streets of Las Vegas in Los Angeles. His family had originally intended for his ashes to be buried in Soweto, which they considered to be the birthplace of his ancestors. Meanwhile, two decades later, still no-one has ever been brought to justice for his murder. And the story of his death is now being taken on by Hollywood directors, years after the case closed. Frances Read reports from Los Angeles.
The Zimbabwean Police have re-imposed a ban on public demonstrations in the Harare Central Business District. It is expected to last until the middle of October. This follows an earlier protest ban which the High Court suspended. A Lawyer and former Minister of Education in Zimbabwe, Senator David Coltart believs the ban will have a dire negative effect. He joined us for more details...
Members of Parliament raised concerns over the running of SAA under the re-appointed chairperson of the board, Dudu Miyeni. This debated was called for by the EFF. The leader of the party, Julius Malema, called for Miyeni's appointment to be reversed because it lacked rationality. About a week ago, Treasury approved a guarantee of five billion rand to the airliner. Zalene Merrington reports...
The Department of Basic Education has given the assurance that this year's matric exams will be error-free and with no irregularities. The 2014 matric examinations across seven provinces were riddled with group cheating and copying. The Chief Director of Communications at the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga joined us for more details...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela talks Asian Markets with China August output beating expectations, Asian shares rising this morning and International monetary fund chief Christine Lagarde to stand on trial....
Nerina Visser of ETF Strategist & Advisor talks South African Markets with Volatility being a regular feature of global markets, but there doesn't seem to be a clear directional trend. After a sharp pull-back late last week, US markets staged quite strong recovery yesterday and the overwhelming requirement for job growth, and the SMME sector is widely hailed as the one that has the best potential for addressing both unemployment and economic growth. What are the stumbling blocks to really get this sector moving?
Estate agent Penny Sparrow has made a tearful apology in the Scottburgh Magistrate's Court for her racist remarks on social network that sparked a public outcry. Commenting on a social network post about litter on KwaZulu-Natal beaches after New Year's Day, Sparrow called black people uneducated monkeys. The apology is part of a plea bargain with the state on a charge of crimen injuria. It comes after the Equality Court found her guilty of hate speech earlier this year. Dries Liebenberg reports . . .
Efforts to rescue the trapped illegal miners at a disused mine in Langlaagte, south of Johannesburg are underway. Last night the rescue teams were hard at work trying to locate an undisclosed number of illegal miners since who have been underground since last Thursday. To get the latest update, we are joined on the line by Chief Executive of Mines Rescue Services South Africa, Christo De Klerk.
Teachers' union SADTU in the Western Cape has called for a boycott of systemic evaluation testing at schools. Learners in grades 3,6 and 9 write the mathematics, numeracy and literacy tests annually in October to test their level of competency. SADTU Secretary Jonovan Rustin says they have on numerous occasions called on the education department to stop the testing. He was addressing a media briefing in Cape Town. Berenice Moss reports::
Former Deputy President, Kgalema Motlanthe says he is concerned by what he referred to as the deviation from the liberation promise by those in leadership positions in the country. Motlanthe was delivering a lecture on Value Based Leadership at Rhodes University in Grahamstown, last night. The lecture was organised by the university's business school in partnership with the Thabo Makgoba Development Trust. Yanga Funani reports..
It seems efforts by President Jacob Zuma to pay back the money as ordered by the constitutional court have not put the Nkandla matter to rest. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) says even though the President has paid back the money, they will pursue legal route to establish if there is any element of criminality. Professor Shadrack Gutto, from the th Institute for African Renaissance studies at Unisa shared a few of his thoughts with us...
Eastern Cape businesses have partnered in a bid to instil a reading culture in rural schools, particularly those in Transkei. The partnership saw ten schools in Butterworth and Ngqamakwe under Mnquma Municipality receiving learning and teaching material which includes books and sporting equipment. The business sector did this under the Rally to Read Campaign which targets primary school learners. Yanga Funani has more
Mine rescue operations at the disused mine in Langlaagte, south of Johannesburg, have been called off to allow dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide to dissipate underground. Officials could not confirm claims that one of the illegal miners trapped underground has died. A fourth illegal miner to be rescued is said to have told mine rescue about the death. We caught with Basil Douglas who is a councilor for Ward 68 (which includes Langlaagte ) for more details...
Environmental minister, Edna Molewa, says almost more than 700 rhinos have been killed in the first half of 2016. That's a 100 less that last year. She was speaking at the official opening National Parks Week at Addo Elephant National Park, outside Port Elizabeth, at the weekend. We caught up with Minister Molewa for more details...
The eJozini local municipality remains without office beares more than a month after the August 03rd local government elections. The hung council has unsuccessfully tried four times to hold a successful sitting where a mayor and speaker were to be elected. Both the ANC and the IFP received an equal number of votes resulting in a stalemate. The ANC has called for a re-run of the election, while the IFP opted for the flipping of a coin to determine the next five-year executive council. We are now joined on the line by KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube.
Production in the mining sector has declined by 5 point 4 percent in July compared with a fall of 3 percent in June. Platinum was the biggest contributor to the total mining production figures coming in at these levels. Some economists say this is worrisome, as it could affect the next quarters GDP figures negatively. This week's GDP figures showed that the mining sector was the second biggest contributor to the positive growth numbers. Morafe Tabane reports
South African companies are less enthusiastic to employ younger people compared to other global companies. According to a research conducted by Deloitte-company staff feel threaten by prospects of younger people coming into their work environment. This makes employment and experience opportunities more difficult for younger people. Trevor Page director at Deloitte Consulting was speaking on the latest global human capital at the American chamber of Commerce Yesterday (08-09-16). Amina Accram reports
Basic Education Deputy Minister, Enver Surty has told the National Council of Provinces that the department has put in place several measures to deal with rape at schools. According to last year's police statistics, there were more than 50 thousand rape cases in South Africa. This translates into 149 cases a day. We spoke to Gender Rights Activist, Lisa Vetten and Deputy Minister, Enver Surty...
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (Nehawu) in parliament says its members will be downing tools today over unresolved issued which saw a protracted strike last year. We spoke to the union's Chairperson in parliament Sithembiso Tembe...
Trade Union Solidarity believes Khulubuse Zuma, a nephew of President Jacob Zuma, will take years to pay off the 23 million rand he owes. The union reached a settlement in court yesterday with Zuma, a former director of Aurora Empowerment Systems. The money has to be paid to liquidators of the Pamodzi gold mine for distribution to workers left destitute when their assets were stripped. We spoke to Solidarity's general secretary Gideon du Plessis outlines how Zuma's payments will proceed...
Zimbabwe's opposition will resume street protests again after a high court overturned a police ban on demonstrations. The court ruled that the two week prohibition order on marches in the city centre was issued unprocedurally and that it was also unconstitutional and unproceedural. Our correspondent Shingai Nyoka filed this report from Harare....
President Jacob Zuma says his Chinese trip has been successful. He has concluded his five day visit to the People's Republic of China where he attended the G20 Summit in Hangzhou with leaders of the world's most industrialised countries. He then moved to Guangdong province for the Investing in Africa Forum where he witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement between rail company PRASA and its Chinese counterpart Communication Construction Ltd. The agreement will see the construction of a rail alternative to Moloto Road between Pretoria and Siyabuswa in Mpumalanga. Ntebo Mokobo reports
Market analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian shares which were trading at one year highs, The European central bank could rev up the markets and Investment theme for Thursday is investing in the diamond industry.
The National Assembly has approved State Security Agency analyst Busisiwe Mkhwebane to become the new Public Protector. This after the Assembly considered the Adhoc Committee's report that recommended Mkhwebane as the preferred candidate. All parties voted in favour of Mkwhebane except the DA which voted against. There was only one abstention from COPE. Mercedes Besent reports
Gujwa Magagula equity sales analyst at Avior Capital Markets looks at whether the US Federal Bank would hike rates, Steinhoff acquires Tekikke Town and Apple debuts iPhone 7 amid investor concern.
Parliament's portfolio committee says it would take its cue from the National Assembly before it decides on whether it will restart disciplinary proceedings against Robert McBride This after the Constitutional Court found that there are insufficient safeguards to protect against executive interference in the workings of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate. We spoke to Committee Chairperson, Francois Beukman...
There could be a link between the use of cellphones by health workers in hospitals and Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) in South Africa. This is according to Graham Anderson, CEO and Principal Officer of Profmed. He has called on both private and public sector hospitals to implement systems and dedicated teams to monitor HAIs. These are defined as infections that are acquired by patients while hospitalised. We spoke to Graham Anderson...
Reserve bank governor, Lesetla Kganyago says as the economy grapples with the high unemployment rate and the high cost of living, consumers take their hard earned cash and invest it in pyramid schemes. He says the public is losing and billions of rands through such schemes. Lesetja was addressing the media and different stakeholder where he launched a campaign which is geared towards educating members of the public about the dangers of pyramid schemes or illegal deposit taking schemes. MorafeTabane reports …..
Market analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian markets as they reach one year high, Apple unveils new iphone 7, markets are on the watch and GDP growth is expected to hike in January 2017....
All eyes will turn to Parliament to see whether they will press ahead with disciplinary charges against suspended police watchdog head, Robert McBride. McBride faces charges of gross misconduct related to his handling of an investigation into the illegal rendition of suspects to Zimbabwe. The Constitutional Court has set aside Police Minister Nathi Nhleko's decision to discipline McBride. The court found that the minister's powers were constitutionally invalid because they didn't provide for parliamentary oversight. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details....
The Fees Commission was again disrupted - this time by students in Cape Town. Yesterday, a group of students prevented UCT vice chancellor Max Price from leaving the venue after he made his submission to the commission. Price was eventually removed from the hall under a strong police guard. Zalene Merrington reports...
There could be a link between the use of cellphones by health workers in hospitals and Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) in South Africa. This is according to Graham Anderson, CEO and Principal Officer of Profmed. He has called on both private and public sector hospitals to implement systems and dedicated teams to monitor HAIs. These are defined as infections that are acquired by patients while hospitalised. AMlive anchor Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Graham Anderson
All eyes will turn to Parliament to see whether they will press ahead with disciplinary charges against suspended police watchdog head, Robert McBride. McBride faces charges of gross misconduct related to his handling of an investigation into the illegal rendition of suspects to Zimbabwe. The Constitutional Court has set aside Police Minister Nathi Nhleko's decision to discipline McBride. The court found that the minister's powers were constitutionally invalid because they didn't provide for parliamentary oversight. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details
Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan, looks at 2nd quarter growth numbers that came out yesterday, Steinhoff earnings coming out later today and what to expect from the iPhone launch later today.
The Fees Commission was again disrupted - this time by students in Cape Town. Yesterday, a group of students prevented UCT vice chancellor Max Price from leaving the venue after he made his submission to the commission. Price was eventually removed from the hall under a strong police guard. Zalene Merrington reports
It has been over six months since three miners at the Lily Gold Mine in Mpumalanga were trapped following a series of shaft collapses and the mine says it is no closer to accessing the collapsed shaft than it was then. For more on this talked to Rob Devereux of Lily Mine's Business Rescue company...
Following the National Freedom Party's no-show during the Local Government Elections, the party has now fired its former Treasurer-General, Xolani Ndlovu. According to the Acting Chairperson, Bheki Gumbi, Ndlovu has been fingered as the mastermind behind the party's failure to contest the local government elections on the 10th of August. For more on this we are joined on the line by Acting Chaiperson of the NFP, Bheki Gumbi
Thousands of jobs in the poultry sector hang in the balance. The South African Poultry Association says chicken imports from Brazil, the European Union and the United States are devastating the sector. South African Poultry Association's Chief Executive Kevin Lovell has the details...
Water consumption in the City of Johannesburg has to reduced by fifteen percent to ensure that reservoirs do not run dry. That's according to the member of the Mayoral Committee for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Anthony Still. He says heavy penalties await residents who ignore water restrictions. Anthony Still now joins us on the line
Four homesteads have been torched and scores of people have sought refuge in a nearby forest at Nowalala village in Ntabankulu in the Eastern Cape. Learning has been affected in three schools, closed by the community since last month. Residents say they want a councillor of their choice who is a woman. As Nkululeko Nyembezi reports, ward four residents now want the ANC in the Alfred Nzo region and in the province to intervene to avoid more disruptions
Economists say the current political instability in the country continues to erode some of the gains that have been made in some sectors of the economy. They say although this will not be reflected in the GDP figures to be released today (06/09/16), it is putting the country and its people at a disadvantage. South Africa is expected to grow by only zero-point-1 percent for the rest of 2016. Morafe Tabane reports
Student representatives at the University of KwaZulu Natal's Howard College campus have vowed to continue with their protest until the university management meets them to discuss their issues. Security has been beefed up at the university following a student protest yesterday. Fanele Mhlongo filed this report
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal says the occupy Luthuli House protest is unnecessary. Provincial Secretary Super Zuma says members of the ANC should follow internal processes to voice their grievances. The ANC in the province remains united and supports the current leadership. It also dismissed calls for an early elective conference. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
The ANC Women's League says it will be at Luthuli House this morning to defend the party when a disgruntled group picket at its national headquarters to demand the resignation of President Jacob Zuma and the entire NEC. The league has addressed the media following their national executive meeting in Irene outside Pretoria over the weekend. Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report....
ANC youth league's national spokesperson Mlondolozi Mkhize has welcomed the decision by #OccupyLuthuliHouse organisers to discourage supporters from taking part in planned occupation of the party's headquarters. The group have attributed the ANC's dismal performance at the municipal polls to President Zuma's poor leadership and the corruption scourge afflicting government departments and state institutions. We spoke to Mkhize who says the movement is a ploy to destabilize the ANC....
South Africa and the other Brics countries are pushing for better policy co-ordination to rid the world of inequality and underdevelopment. These countries are participating in the G20 Summit currently underway in Hangzhou, China. The two-day meeting has been called to find a new growth path against the backdrop of sluggish growth of less than five percent globally. President Jacob Zuma is leading the country's delegation to the meeting. We spoke to Managing Director of Emerging Markets & Africa at Deloitte Dr Martyn Davies....
The #OccupyLuthuliHouse movement has called off its planned occupation of the ANC head quarters. The movement has urged supporters not to take part in march as they fear bloodshed. They say they will gather at Beyers Naude Square in Johannesburg, head for Luthuli House to hand over a memorandum of grievances and then leave. The group is mobilising support to call for the resignation of President Jacob Zuma and the party's entire national executive committee. We spoke to Bonolo Ramikhele, an ANC member, who is part of the #OccupyLuthuliHouse movement...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian shares in positive territory this morning, China's president Xi Jingping at G20 summit states world economy is at risk and Emerging markets on track to set sovereign debt record.
Following the ongoing drug-related violence in Johannesburg, especially in Westbury, where the community lives in fear, after six shooting incidents in the past three weeks, Kwaito star and former drug user Kabelo Mabalane has called on young people to stay away from drugs and alcohol. SABC's Horisani Sithole spent a day with a group of people who are in a recovery programme in Johannesburg. Our reporter, Horisani Sithole has more....
Nadir Thokan, Analyst at 27four Investment Managers looks at how retailors stack up compared to each other, Eurozone PMI data coming out and debt managers won't buy more SOE debt.
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's lawyers say the minister has complied fully with the Hawks' investigation into him. The minister's lawyers have issued a statement to clarify the perception by some that he is acting as if he is above the law. For more on this wetalked to the line finance minister Pravin Gordhan's lawyer Teboho Malatji
As from next year, the grant payment system will be brought in-house. This is according to the Minister of Social Development, Bathabile Dlamini. Responding to parliamentary questions, the Minister says a new regulation will ensure that there will no longer be illegal deductions from social grants. The National Spokesperson for SASSA, Paseka Letsatsi, joins us on the line to tell us more.
Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe has condemned the late payment of government service providers, as well as the lack of maintenance of public infrastructure as criminal acts. Radebe updated delegates at the annual congress of the Master Builders Association in Durban on progress with infrastructure projects worth 800-billion rand. These projects are aimed at stimulating economic growth as part of the National Development Plan. Dries Liebenberg reports...
Private developers of the Woodstock Hub in Cape Town will meet with residents of Bromwell Street today to discuss the pending eviction of the community from the area. The company has offered 50-thousand rand to help start a fund for 28 families to be used for alternative accommodation following a protest by angry residents last week. Berenice Moss reports::::
Since 2007 High Court Judge Nkola Motata has been placed on special leave but he is still receiving his salary. In than year, Judge Motata was found guilty of drunken driving. He crashed into a wall allegedly because he was drunk. The Judicial Service Commissioner C P Fourie says the case against Judge Motata is taking long because to the challenges in application...
Growth in credit demand slowed to six-point-seven-eight per cent year-on-year in July, down from a revised seven-point-two-three percent in June. That's according to the latest central bank data. The data shows that credit uptake by households is slowing as consumers face high interest rates and tighter credit conditions. Liabo Setho and Tshepo Mongoai compiled this report...
Students will have to wait a little longer to find out whether they will be paying more towards university fees next year. Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has conceded that he was unable to meet yesterday's (Aug 31st) deadline to pronounce on the 2017 fee structure. Earlier this month, various student formations threatened to shut down universities if fees were increased. That was prompted by news that the Council for Higher Education had proposed a six percent hike for next year. Wisani Makhubele has more.....
The Skin Cancer Foundation wants government to start screening people for skin cancer when they go to clinics for basic healthcare. The foundation wants skin cancer to be prioritised like other diseases such as HIV, TB, diabetes and basic flu. It says myths around skin cancer and albinism are harming people, especially in African communities. The Foundation says people fail to seek treatment and if they do, it is already too late. Senior Health Journalist Thabile Mbhele reports...
One of South Africa's biggest asset managers Futuregrowth says it plans to only do business with state-owned enterprises with credible management which is acting in the best interest of the companies they run. Futuregrowth yesterday announced that it will stop lending money to six of the country's largest state-owned companies temporarily. The company says it wants to get a better understanding of the management in government-owned companies. We caught with associate professor of law at Wits university professor Tshepo Mongalo for more on this...
Top management of the Western Cape police say vigilante killings in Khayelitsha (on the Cape Flats) have seen a marked decrease in the past two years. The South African Police Services says it has implemented almost all of the recommendations made by the Khayelitsha Commission of Inquiry. The SAPS and the Department of Community safety briefed the Western Cape Provincial Parliament Standing Committee on Community Safety today. Berenice Moss reports....
The Department of Basic Education says the legislation on schools' conduct will be reviewed to ensure that discriminatory policies are not put in place. This comes after incidents of racism were reported at several schools. Learners at Pretoria High School for Girls staged a protest accusing the school of mistreating pupils with natural black hair or dreadlocks and braids as well as instructing them not to speak in their mother-tongues. Learning at Lawson Brown High School in Port Elizabeth was also disrupted after pupils demanded that the code of conduct regarding hair restrictions be amended. We caught up with social activist on cultural diversity and unity Bathandwa Mcuba for more on this...
Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, says there was nothing controversial about the Pretoria Girls High School hair policy. Leaners at the school staged a protest over thE hair policy saying it was racist and infringed on their rights. The protests made headlines this week. Mpho Lepedi reports...
Both the Democratic Alliance and Economic Freedom Fighters have asked the presiding officers of Parliament to investigate the validity of Parliamentary membership of ANC MP Peace Mabe. In the run-up to the August 3rd municipal elections, Mabe was the mayoral candidate of Mogale City in Gauteng. She was also reportedly sworn in as a councillor, but lost the race to become mayor to the DA. Now she has resumed her Parliamentary duties and some opposition parties are questioning her membership. They are adamant that she has not been sworn-in back at Parliament after the election. Lulama Matya reports.....
Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Communications has commenced public hearings on the Films and Publications Amendment Bill. The proposed bill could lead to revenge porn being criminalised in South Africa. For more on this we are joined on the line by Film and Publication Board Legal Officer Tholoana Ncheke
Violence linked to the lack of tuition at Sandi High School outside Ngqeleni in the Eastern Cape has flared up. Homes rented by learners in the village were attacked last night (monday 29 August). A number of classrooms were vandalised or set alight on Monday, apparently out of frustration over inaction by the authorities. As Mbasa Khwaza reports, there's been no teaching at the school since February..
Nerina Visser, strategist at etf SA looks at the uncertainties coming from global markets, US economy is assumed to be on a more sustainable growth path, what does that mean for the demand for commodity prices, and there is an increasing number of private sector corporate governance breaches in the news lately, with British American Tobacco and Arcelor Mittal. .
Police in the North West have concluded the process of opening cases against parents, guardians and those responsible for impregnating over three thousand under-age girls. The Ministry of Social Development made the shocking discovery in the rural Ratlou Municipalit on Sunday. Some of the mothers are as young as 11 years old. They are believed to have been impregnated by older men. Police says arrests are imminent, pending the transfer of dockets to the Director of Public Prosecutions. Lucas Mothibedi reports
Heads of State attending the SADC summit in the kingdom of Swaziland were present at this year's Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony. Among them are presidents Jacob Zuma of South Africa and Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique. The annual reed dance is the kingdom's biggest cultural event. Motsebi wa Monareng reports.....
More that 50 Thusi Coal Mine workers who staged an underground sit-in in Ermelo in Mpumalanga, are now calling for government's intervention. They started the sit-in last week claiming that the mine management had failed to pay them their salaries for the past three months. Most of them are affiliated to the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU). Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports....
Black learners at Pretoria Girls High School say they have to face racial abuse on a daily basis.The learners met with Gauteng MEC Panyaza Lesufi after a protest that sparked a countrywide condemnation of racism at the school. Lesufi and Tshwane Executive Mayor Solly Msimanga went to the school to hear the concerns of both sides. Neo Makwiting reports.....
Democratic Alliance leader, Mmusi Maimane has demanded a progress report from Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, who is investigating allegations of state capture by the Gupta family. This comes after the Guptas announced over the weekend that they will sell all their South African business interests. The Public Protector launched an investigation into this matter at the DA's request some months ago. This followed Deputy Minister, Mcebisi Jonas' revelations that the wealthy family had offered him the position of Finance Minister after Nhlanhla Nene was removed by President Jacob Zuma. Maimane says the investigation must continue...
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela looks Asian shares which have bounced this morning, the European commission which is to hand Apple an Irish tax bill of over 1 billion euros and Alphabet executive David Drummond who has stepped down from Uber board amid growing competition....
An impeachment trial against suspended Brazilian President, Dilma Rousseff has begun. She's facing charges of alleged fiscal mismanagement. After her testimony yesterday, today and tomorrow she'll face a vote in the 81-member Senate. If two-thirds of the members vote against her, interim president Michel Temer, will be sworn in as president. We spoke to former ambassador and international expert, Tom Wheeler....
SAA spokesperson, Tlali Tlali says the national carrier is awaiting the response of the National Treasury regarding the government guarantee for over five billion rand, which is being held back by Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan until the group elects a new board. This as the entity looks for for a sixteen Billion Rand loan to help meet its working expenditures and to deal with debt.....
South African Traditional Music Awards has honoured SABC COO by establishing a category after Hlaudi Mostoeneng. And Motsoeneng was awarded with an award for his role in promoting traditional music. The honour was bestowed at the SATMA function in Durban. SATMA founder Dumisani Goba says they decided to honour Motsoeneng for promoting traditional music. Goba says even other categories will be changed to honour the heroes and heroines of Africa. Khalesakhe Mbhense reports
Scores of former UDF activists have come together in Cape Town to mark 33 years of its formation. Most of those who spoke looked back with pride at what became arguably the most influential political force in the country in the 1980's. The meeting was also a reflection on what has gone wrong with the ANC leading up to a slide in the recent municipal elections. Joseph Mosia reports
President Jacob Zuma says the just concluded the 6th Tokyo International Conference on African Development will lead to increased investment in Africa. Speaking to the SABC, the president said with Japanese and African companies having signed more than 70 agreements, the summit provides a win win situation for both Africa and Japan. Sarah Kimani reports.
ANC's Parks Tau says they are planning to launch a civil case against newly elected City of Johannesburg mayor DA's Herman Mashaba over remarks that he allegedly made about ANC women in senior executive positions in the City of Johannesburg. He was speaking at the funeral of a councillor in the city- Nonhlanhla Mthembu, in Naturena south of Johannesburg. Mthembu died on Monday after collapsing at the inaugural council meeting. Neliswa Mavundla reports
The MEC for education in Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi is to meet with the school governing body of the Pretoria girls High School after he was petitioned by learners at the school who say they have been asked to relaxed their hair and are not allowed to speak any other language but English on the school's premises. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to MEC Panyaza Lesufi
Gujwa Magagula, Equity sales analyst at Avior Capital Markets looks at the probability of Federal Reserve rate hike which has now increased and Political risk in South Africa increases imminent downgrade by ratings agencies and Global Monetary Easing.
Businessman and Academic Professor Sipho Pityana hit out at the ANC and President Zuma at the funela of former sports minister and premier of the Eastern Cape Reverend Makhenkesi Stofile. Professor Pityana, called on President Jacob Zuma to step down. Meanwhile, Sports minister Fikile Mbalula acknowledged calls for the ANC to do some introspection following elections...
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, OUTA, has described the resignation of South African Airway's audit and risk committee chair, Yakhe Kwinana, as an insincere and selfish move. She was one of only three remaining non-executive directors. She had been a member of the SAA board since 2009. Announcing her resignation on Monday, she said her reputation was at stake. To talk to us further about this we talked to OUTA's Director of Legal Affairs Ivan Herselman together with Ms Yakhe Kwinana herself.
Businessman and Academic Professor Sipho Pityana hit out at the ANC and President Zuma at the funela of former sports minister and premier of the Eastern Cape Reverend Makhenkesi Stofile. Professor Pityana, called on President Jacob Zuma to step down. Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula responded to Professor Sipho Pityana saying it is for the ANC to decided on recalling its deployees.
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is today not appearing before the Hawks as summoned by the unit. Gordhan was expected to receive a formal warning, usually issued before a person is charged. Is Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan obliged to appear before the Hawks? To answer that question is the Executive secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC)‚ Lawson Naidoo and Enoch Godongwana, the ANC head of economic transformation...
Transport Minister, Dipuo Peters, has been criticised after a letter was sent to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's board chairman, Popo Molefe, requesting an end to an investigation into irregular tenders at the parastatal. The investigation into PRASA followed several irregularities identified by the Auditor General and the Public Protector. Last year, Thuli Madonsela ordered an investigation into all PRASA's contracts worth more than 10-million rand that had been awarded since 2012. We caught up with Transport Minister Dipuo Peters' spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi for more details...
A Judicial Conduct Tribunal against Western Cape Judge President, John Hlophe can now go ahead some eight years after a complaint was lodged by justices of the Constitutional Court. This was after the Court refused to reconsider its previous decision not to hear an appeal by two of their colleagues. Justices Bess Nkabinde and Chris Jafta, the chief complainants, raised technical procedural points related to the Tribunal. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details
The State Security analyst and former Director for the Country Information Management Unit at the Home Affairs Department, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane has been recommended as the next Public Protector. This comes after three hours of deliberations to identify the best candidate. The four other candidates Judge Siraj Desai, Judge Erica Weiner, Advocate Muvhango Lukhamaine and Professor Bongani Majola were eliminated. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan insists he's not going to appear before the Hawks today. The unit had requested to meet him over an investigation into a suspected rogue spy unit in the tax service. Gordhan was speaking at a debate on economic issues affecting the country in Cape Town last night. Mlamli Maneli reports
Earlier this year, on the 16th of May 2016 to be exact, EFF leader Julius Malema predicted that Pravin Gordhan would be arrested. Speaking during a tour in Khayelitsha township, Cape Town‚ Malema said Gordhan was a better devil
The Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Kebby Maphatsoe, has unreservedly apologized to the former Intelligence Minister, Ronnie Kasrils, for calling him a "traitor", "counter revolutionary" and an "enemy of the people". He has also retracted statements he made alleging that Kasrils was behind a conspiracy to discredit President Jacob Zuma by fabricating the rape case against him. This came after Maphatsoe and the MK Military Veterans Association settled a libel suit Kasrils brought against them, by agreement, in the Pretoria High Court. Liela Magnus reports .....
Beverage manufacturers are up against the proposed sugar tax. They say it's discriminatory and will impact negatively on the industry. The Beverages Association of South Africa says the move could reduce the industry's contribution to GDP by 14 billion rand. Tshepo Mongoai reports..
Finance minister, Pravin Gordhan is expected to report to the Hawks tomorrow (thursday) regarding the investigation into a rogue unit at SARS. The unit was set up while Gordhan was still its head. Treasury's spokesperson, Phumza Macanda has confirmed that Gordhan was summoned. However, Hawks spokesperson, Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi says he has no knowledge of this. Earlier we caught up with both the journalist who broke the story, the Daily Maverick's Mariaane Thamm and political analyst, Professor Somadoda Fikeni...
Markets reacted with shock with the rand plunging to three weeks lows after reports that Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan had been ordered to report to the Hawks by the end of the week. In October of last year when then Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene was fired, economists said the move cost the country billions of rands. What are the economic implications of this probe into the Finance minister? To answer that question and more. We are now joined on the line by Economist Dr Iraj Abidian
Academic activities have been disrupted at the Nelson Mandela University in Port Elizabeth after students embarked on a fees must fall protest. Sasco provincial leadership has called for a provincial shut down, to persuade the Department of Higher Education to agree to a national demand for free education. As Olwethu Matsipane reports, the SRC tried to persuade students not to engage in the action...
ANC MP's have vowed that there will be no parliamentary inquiry into what is happening at the SABC. This follows calls from the DA that the situation in the public broadcaster needs to be investigated. The ANC says following the explanation from both the Communications Minister Faith Muthambi and the SABC, there is no need for an inquiry. Joseph Mosia reports
The DA has accused ANC members of the Portfolio Committee on Communications of having backtracked on their support of a proposed parliamentary inquiry into the SABC. DA MP Phumzile van Damme says it is clear that ANC MPs were pressured by Luthuli House. She says in so doing, they turned a blind eye to the rapidly degenerating state of affairs at the public broadcaster. Joining us on the line to discuss this further is the chairperson for the portfolio committee on Communications, Humprey Maxegwana
Parliament is in full swing this week after two months' adjournment to allow MPS to campaign for the recent municipal elections. The parliamentary committee established to pick the next Public Protector is also expected to nominate the successful candidate from a list of five who have been shortlisted. The SABC will also come under scrutiny in the Portfolio Committee on Communication. Lulama Matya reports
Lawyers for the Marikana widows and other claimants, say they will now approach the courts to force the office of the President to move swiftly on talks around compensation. The legal team which has filed claims amounting to over a billion rands, wants the matter to be expedited. Last year, the presidency committed itself to compensate the women who lost their husbands during the Marikana shooting in 2012, and mine-workers who were shot and injured. But eight months down the line, the matter is still unresolved. Lucas Mothibedi reports
Newly-elected Tshwane metro executive mayor Solly Msimanga says EFF and ANC members are recruiting people to occupy vacant land in the municipality. This comes as people have occupied RDP houses in Nelmapius, near Mamelodi, and others are occupying vacant land near Ga-Rankuwa in the north. People occupying the pieces of land say they do so because they have nowhere to live. Meanwhile, another group in Ga-Rankuwa is taking city of Tshwane to court after they were removed from the land they illegally occupied. Sihle Nkhoma reports
Newly elected Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba has declared corruption enemy number one in the city. He's also committed to bring change to Johannesburg that he says will create jobs for the people of the city. Mashaba was elected mayor of Johannesburg at a marathon inaugural council meeting last night. He defeated former mayor Parks Tau. We caught up with political and policy analyst Joe Mavuso...
Newly-elected Tshwane metro executive mayor Solly Msimanga says EFF and ANC members are recruiting people to occupy vacant land in the municipality. This comes as people have occupied RDP houses in Nelmapius, near Mamelodi, and others are occupying vacant land near Ga-Rankuwa in the north. People occupying the pieces of land say they do so because they have nowhere to live. Meanwhile, another group in Ga-Rankuwa is taking city of Tshwane to court after they were removed from the land they illegally occupied. Sihle Nkhoma reports
More than 200 temporary teachers in Limpopo have not received their salaries since April. The South African Democratic Teachers Union has since threatened to go on strike, should the provincial Department of Education fail to pay the teachers by today (tuesday 23 August). The department says the teachers have not been paid because of an anomaly experienced by the Treasury Department. Shibu Mamokgere reports..
US Secretary of State John Kerry has warned that America may cut aid to South Sudan if fighting in the country does not stop. Kerry announced a $138-million dollar aid package to South Sudan, but said in future financial help to the world's youngest nation would be tied to the leaders' commitment to peace. The United States is currently the world's largest donor to South Sudan contributing $1.6Billion in aid to the country. Speaking in Nairobi, Kerry said South Sudan has agreed to the deployment of a regional protection force to boost security in the troubled nation. Sarah Kimani reports.
The Kwa-Zulu Natal Education Department has confirmed that one of the victims of a teacher in Nquthu tried to commit suicide at the weekend. The teacher is on the run after a series of videos surfaced of him allegedly committing sexual acts with a number of learners from the Ekucabangeni High School. The teacher allegedly manipulated learners over several years, influencing them into having sexual relations with him. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Kwa-Zulu Natal Education Department spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi.
Market Analyst at ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer looks at the main market movements last week. We saw a standout performance from the energy sector, with oil prices in particular posting very impressive rallies and shifting focus to the week ahead and the main event on the local market is the July CPI data that will be released on Wednesday
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela Asian shares slipping this morning, Pharmaceutical company, Pfizer Inc in deals to acquire cancer drug company, Medivation for close to 14 billion dollar and what's next for Brazil after the Rio olympics
WThe ANC in Johannesburg is uncertain that it will be able to retain the metro municipality ahead of the inaugural council meeting on Monday morning. It obtained 44% and needs the support of other smaller political parties or risk losing Johannesburg to the opposition. The ANC has blamed national issues such as the Nkandla saga and e-tolls for its reduced electoral support in the August 3rd municipal elections. Earlier we caught up with Professor at the Wits Graduate School of Public and Development Management and authour of Dominance and Decline: The ANC in the Time of Zuma Prof Susan Booysen Tshepo Phagane reports....
The ANC Youth League has called for the ruling party to bring forward its national conference to elect new leadership. The call follows the results of the local government elections. The Youth League spokesperson, Mlondli Mkhize, says a national conference is due in December 2017. However, if it could be brought forward by at least six months it would give the party time to recover before the 2019 elections. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the ANCYL's national spokesperson, Mlondli Mkhize.
The DA's Johannesburg mayoral candidate Herman Mashaba says he's willing to stand down if the party asks him to. He was reacting to the EFF leader Julius Malema's statement in which he expressed reservations about Mashaba's candidature. Malema has undertaken to support the DA mayoral candidate in the Tshwane Metro, Solly Msimanga. Mashaba says he finds the conditions that Malema has set strange and awkward. He says both the DA and the EFF campaigned to dislodge the ANC. Earlier we caught up with Mashaba and political scientist, Professor Mcebisi Ndletyana...
Police in Zimbabwe's capital have dispersed hundreds of protesters calling for the country's president, Robert Mugabe, to step down. They fired tear gas at the protestors who were carrying flowers and holding posters reading "mugabe must go". Protest leader, Promise Mkwananzi, says yesterday's protest was a build-up to a national shutdown at the end of August. We spoke to our correspondent in Zimbabwe, Shingai Nyoka...
Teachers and children at Tau-dia-rora Primary School in Proof Plaas in the Northern Cape are still shocked and traumatised by the brutal murder of six year old Kutlwano Garesape. The little boy died while trying to protect his mother from an attacker. Kgotaco Selao reports...
The Communications Committee in Parliament says it wants an extension of committee meetings, just to deal with the recent developments at the SABC. The committee met when Parliament resumed yesterday morning (tuesday 16 August) to map out its programme for the third quarter. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more............
The DA and the EFF will today separately announce progress on coaliton talks in hung municipalities across the country. The parties are expected to explain their decisions on how the big metros of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Nelson Mandela Bay will be governed. Talks started two weeks ago when results showed that no party will be able to garner an outright majority to govern alone. We are now joined on the line by Political and Policy analyst at UNISA Dr Somadoda Fikeni
The annual Smile Week, where plastic surgeons assist children in need of facial and other reconstruction is underway at Port Elizabeth's Provincial Hospital in the Eastern Cape. The initiative which is sponsored by the Port Elizabeth International Airport is aimed at putting a smile on the faces of the children in South Africa. About 20 children from across the province will undergo surgery this week. Thandi Setokoe reports
A process of assessing and reviewing legislation that affects South Africans negatively, will be put under review from next year. This emerged during the first day of public hearings on matters involving poverty, unemployment and inequality held in East London. Former President, Kgalema Motlanthe is chairing the hearings. Yanga Funani has more on the story...
A study by the global medical charity MSF, or Doctors without Borders, says one in four women have been raped in the mining town of Rustenburg in the North West. The study says this has resulted in extremely high levels of psychological problems among the victims. This emerged at the 1st South African National Conference on Violence, taking place in Boksburg, east of Johannesburg. The conference brings together researchers and policy makers to look at ways of reducing crime in the country. Sashin Naidoo reports...
Parliament is back in full swing from today (Tuesday 16th August) as MPs are returning from the ten-week constituency period following the local government elections. The NCOP will hold a debate about Women's Day this week, while the National Assembly Rules Committee is meeting this afternoon to finalise some of the guidelines on the rules. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
United Democratic Movement leader Bantu Holomisa has called for a national convention to address pressing issues of national interest such as land reform, poverty and corruption. Holomisa says it is very clear that South Africans can no longer tolerate these challenges. We caught up with him on what this means....
United Democratic Movement leader Bantu Holomisa has called for a national convention to address pressing issues of national interest such as land reform, poverty and corruption. Holomisa says it is very clear that South Africans can no longer tolerate these challenges. For more on this, UDM leader Bantu Holomisa joins us on the line
Parliament is back in full swing from today as MPs are returning from the ten-week constituency period following the local government elections. The NCOP will hold a debate about Women's Day this week, while the National Assembly Rules Committee is meeting this afternoon to finalise some of the guidelines on the rules. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more...
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has appealed for calm at higher education institutions, saying a decision on fees will only be made following a consultation process with various interested parties. Nzimande says students should know by the end of this month if there will be fee increases for next year or not. Lectures have been suspended at the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Pietermaritzburg Campus after students embarked on protest action. Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has the details...
INTRO: The community of Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape is still in shock following the brutal killing of a 6-year-old boy. Kutlwano Garesape was stabbed with a broken bottle as he was trying to protect his mother from being raped. His mother Segomotso was taking him and his 8-year-old brother to school on Friday at the time of the incident. Reginald Witbooi reports
Nadir Thokan looks at South African markets amid stronger rand and opening of markets at the begging of the week...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian shares recovering following losses, the world’s 3rd largest economy, Japan seeing zero quarterly growth for April-June and the Nissan Revolution – could the new petrol engine make today’s diesel engines outdated?
Zambia's opposition parties want a vote recount in the capital Lusaka's constituencies citing irregularities in the presidential vote. Last Thursday Zambians voted in presidential and parliamentary elections as well as in a constitutional referendum. The oppostoion says the polls have been fraught with irregularities. This report by Shingai Nyoka in Lusaka, Zambia
The Eastern Cape's Nelson Mandela Bay Metro is still up for grabs and political parties are looking for alliances to form a coalition government. The big guns, the ANC and the DA who both failed to secure a majority of council seats, are negotiating with prospective alliance partners. The DA has been allocated 57 seats and the ANC 50. And not to be outdone, some of the smaller parties have formed their own pact. Thabo Daniels reports.
The Communications Workers' Union says there will be a total shutdown at Telkom as its members down tools today. The union says workers need a cost-of-living inflation linked salary increase. This comes as an illegal strike at Eskom was resolved last week, while petroleum sector workers belonging to union Ceppawu have been on strike since the beginning of the month. We caught up with both Communications Workers' Union General Secretary Aubrey Tshabalala and Telkom Spokesperson Jacqui O'Sullivan for more details...
ANC leadership has accepted collective responsibility for the party's poor performance in municipal elections. The ANC NEC has concluded a four day meeting in Irene, south of Pretoria, during which it reflected on the poll results. The party's secretary general Gwede Mantashe has announced a number of measures to be implemented to counter perceptions that the party is self-serving, arrogant and soft on corruption. ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe
The South African Union of Students has threatened to embark on a national strike at various universities from today (monday 15 August). This come after Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande, indefinitely postponed the announcement of university fees for next year. A leader of the Pan Africanist Student Movement, Kaizer Festile, accused the minister of using underhanded tactics and warned of a full-scale revolt by students. For more details, we spoke to Justice Majaz-Digashu, the general secretary of the Pan Africanist Student Movement...
The newly elected Mayor of the City of Mbombela Sibusiso Mathonsi has promised residents better and improved service delivery. The City of Mbombela now comprises of the Umjindi and Mbombela Municipality. Motsebi wa Monareng reports
Newly-re-elected Cape Town Mayor, Patricia de Lille has dismissed criticism that her mayoral committee is gender and racially imbalanced. She was speaking after her inauguration for another five-year term. The DA won the city in last week's local government election with a two-thirds majority. The DA won 154 seats, the ANC 57 and the EFF got seven seats in last week's poll. Former deputy mayor, Ian Neilson and council speaker, Dirk Smit, also retained their positions. Mlamli Maneli reports...
The ANC has questioned the formula used to determine seats allocations in the municipal elections. Secretary General Gwede Mantashe has suggested that something is "wrong" with the formula as the party meets for the first time following a bruising election. The National executive committee is meeting until Sunday - after the party's support dropped to fifty four percent nationally. Mantashe says while they look at what went wrong -he has dismissed speculation tha the meeting will discuss President Zuma's future role in the party. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe has more....
The South African Revenue Service has asked the Constitutional Court not to force it to reinstate a racist employee. Jacobus Kruger got into trouble after using the k-word to refer to his supervisor. The Disciplinary Inquiry stopped short of dismissal, ordering a final written warning and counselling. But the then SARS commissioner ignored that ruling and fired Kruger instead. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details.......
The interviews for the position of the new Public Protector continued until the early hours of this morning. Former Deputy Public Protector, Advocate Mamiki Goodman, the incumbet Deputy Public Protector Adv Kevin Malunga, Kaajal Ramjathan-Keogh of the Southern African Litigation Centre and the Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions, Willie Hofmeyer faced some toough questions from the committee. Lulama Matya reports from Parliament.....
The IEC in the Western Cape says there will be no change to the allocation of council seats at the Bitou Municipality in the Southern Cape. The DA lodged a dispute following last week's election results, believing it should have secured more seats. Tanya Krause compiled this report...
The following story contains graphic details that may offend sensitive listeners ans children. The Durban High Court has heard harrowing graphic evidence about the physical torture that led to the death of a Chatsworth toddler in 2014. The child has become known as Baby X- to protect the identity of her young siblings who are testifying. She allegedly died at the hands of her 31-year-old mother and 51-year-old maternal grandmother. Both women have pleaded not guilty to the murder. Minoshni Pillay reports...
The Basic Education Department says the delivery of mobile classrooms, furniture and stationery to schools in Vuwani outside Thohoyandou is almost complete. Learners in the area have returned to school after a three-month shutdown of services. About thirty schools were burnt and damaged in May amid the shutdown over a demarcation dispute. Shibu Mamokgere reports...
Residents of Marikana in the North West, who have illegally and forcefully occupied state RDP houses are heading to Bloemfontein to file their eviction case with the Supreme Court of Appeal. This follows a judgement by the North West High Court which ruled in favour of the municipality with a time frame attached to the order . Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi reports...
The fees commission has kicked off on a shaky start with the South African Union of Students expressing dissatisfaction on how the commission is doing its work. The students wanted to know the status of fee increment for 2017, but Commission Chairperson Judge Jonathan Arthur Heher, has made it clear that the commission has no power to decide on that, but will merely make recommendations which the President will decide on what to do with them. The commission was established in January this year, and is looking at the feasibility of a free higher education and training in South Africa. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
Another school has yet been set alight in the violence torn Vuwani area near Thohoyandou in Limpopo. Mugo-yi-dwa Secondary at Tshi-vhu-lana village is the 29th school to be torched in a space of three month. Three classrooms and furniture gutted down. Fire brigade managed to extinguish fire to prevent it from torching the fourth class room. There have been no schooling in the Vuwani and surrounding villages for the past three month. Normal schooling was expected to resume this morning. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase was there last night and he filed this report....
Meanwhile, still in Limpopo.... Police have spent the better part of yesterday afternoon and evening battling out with an angry crowd that has barricaded the R523 road with stones and other objects at Tshi-tu-ni village outside Louis Trichardt in Limpopo. Community members are demanding the rearrest of a rape and murder suspect who was released in court on Monday. This follows the death of a school girl over and the rape of an elderly woman the past weekend. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase reports....
The ANC in Mpumalanga has announced executive mayors for all its twenty one municipalities. The organisation also revealed during a press conference held in Mbombela, that two members of the provincial cabinet have been deployed to local municipalities. Vusi Twala reports...
Support for the Congress of the People (Cope) has drastically declined across the country with political leaders blaming this on lack of resources. In the party's provincial stronghold in the Northern Cape, the party's support declined from 34 seats in 2011 to four seats in 2016. With a voter support percentage of less than one percent nationally. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
President Jacob Zuma says government needs to upscale efforts to empower women to play a greater role in the development of the country's economy. He was giving the keynote address at 60th Anniversary Women's Day celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng filed this report...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian shares which have hit one year highs, drone technology is now a lifesaving connection to medicine and the Bank of England quantitative easing hits an early snag.
Nerina Visser, strategist at ETFSA looks at whether political parties are any closer to understanding the economic and financial implications of the election outcome, the real winner of the election has been the rand and this week marks a year of NO load-shedding, but a strike by NUM members at three power stations is expected to go national today. What impact could this have on Eskom?
The fees commission that was established by President Jacob Zuma in January this year following violent student protests will begin with public hearings tomorrow (Wednesday). Student bodies, universities and other role players in education are expected to make presentations. The commission is being led by retired judge Jonathan Heher. We are joined on the line by Spokesperson for the Commission of Inquiry into Higher Education and Training, Musa Ndandwe
The ANC s Umkhonto we Sizwe veterans association has come out to defend president Jacob Zuma amid increasing perceptions on social media that he is to blame for the ANC's poor performance in 2016 local government elections. The ANC dropped below the 60 percent mark, garnering about 54 percent nationally and failed to retain an outright majority in the metros of Tshwane, Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Nelson Mandela Bay. It also failed to reclaim the city of cape town and there are hung municipalities in their traditional strongholds across the country. The governing party needs coalitions to govern. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
The National Union of Mineworkers has vowed to defend about 2 200 Eskom wokers who embarked on a wild cat strike. Eskom says it will take action against the workers. Eskom workers are not allowed to go on strike since theirs is an essential service. The NUM is at loggerheads with Eskom management over wage increases. Tshepo Mongoai reports...
As the 2016 Olympics continue in Rio de Janeiro, for many poor communities the Games are a reminder of sacrifices they've had to make. Next door to the main Olympic Park is a collection of 20 small dwellings, newly created for a handful of locals who refused leave the area when developers were building the Olympic venues. Our correspondent Dan Whitehead visited those living there - and brings us this report...
In Zimbabwe, leaders of former liberation fighters group have boycotted the annual Heroes commemorations. The war veterans say its in protest against their ill-treatment by president Mugabe, his party and government. The boycott is latest reflection of the strained relations between the president and his former allies. It's the first time that war veterans leaders have refused to attend the event, which honours soldiers who died fighting colonialism in the 1970s civil war. Shingai Nyoka reports
The Independent Electoral Commission has declared this year's local government elections as free and fair. About 26 million prospective voters went to the municipal polls which were fiercely contested. For the first time in the country's post-apartheid history, about 200 political parties and over 61-thousand candidates participated in the polls. SABC's Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report....
A couple who fell victim to the Brusson home loan scheme say it's unfair for ABSA bank to reinstate their home loan even though they had already paid it off. The Moore's are against a bid by ABSA to get the Constitutional Court to reinstate the original bonds. They had taken out a loan with a company called Brusson Finance, but unwittingly sold their home in the process. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter Candice Nolan reports.
With local government election votes counted and results declared, some have been left clueless as to what a "coalition" actually means. The City of Johannesburg Metro is one of the municipalities where possible talks of a coalition are underway. So just what is a coaltion? Neliswa Mavundla spoke to some Johannesburg residents to find out what their understanding of a "coalition" is
Independent Candidates in Tlokwe municipality, in Potchefstroom in the North West, are preparing to file court papers with the Electoral Court against the IEC. They say that certain voters in Tlokwe were denied the right to vote in last week's municipal elections as a result of the amalgamation of Tlokwe and Ventersdorp municipalities. The merger led to some wards and boundaries being changed by the Municipal Demarcation Board. Patrick Dintwa reports...
The EFF says it has formally met with the Democratic Alliance and the ANC. The meeting was to discuss possible coalition in metros and municipalities where there was no outright winner. EFF Spokesperson, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi joined us for more details...
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Des van Rooyen says concerns raised by communities in areas where municipalities share boundaries will be attended to now that the elections are over. Van Rooyen says his department is ready to facilitate the transition of new administrators of the country's municipalities. For more on this - Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs minister - Des van Rooyen - explains...
Municipalities have 14 days in which to formulate new councils following last week's Local Government Elections. The ANC won 53-point-nine-one per cent of the national vote, eight per cent down from 2011. The DA is second with over 26 per cent and the EFF with over eight per cent. Political parties are now discussing possible coalitions as there's no outright winner in some municipalities and some of the big metros. The DA says it is in talks with other parties for the metros they received a majority win. The Chairperson of the DA's Federal Executive James Selfe joined us for more details...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela
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Nerina Visser, Strategist and Adviser at ETF SA looks at give clarity around the financial and investment implications of the recent 2016 local Government Election outcomes and more.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Markets as Asian shares rise after Bank of England launches post Brexit stimulus campaign and the gap between emerging markets and S&P 500 almost reaching record high...
The ANC and the DA are locked into a tight competition in most metros. So far, the ruling party is leading in Buffalo City in the Eastern Cape and Mangaung in the Free State, while the DA is leading in Cape Town and the Eastern Cape's Nelson Mandela Bay. We spoke to Innovation Manager at the CSIR, Ndumiso Cingo and political analyst, Sanusha Naidu....
Nadir Thokan looks at South African trade balance numbers that came out on Friday, US GDP growth numbers and the consequences of negative yielding debt....
While major parties are scrambling for key metros, the Congress of the People is disappointed at its dwindling support. Cope has been losing support in every election. Formed in 2008, it had 37 MPs in the 2009 national elections which was reduced to three in the 2014 elections. COPE's Dennis Bloem spoke to our producer Asanda Ntame...
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Markets as a positive light on election day in South Africa , Asian shares rising after a rebound in oil prices, Bank of England under pressure to cut interest rates and Bitcoin Sinking After Hackers Steal $65 Million From Hong Kong Exchange...
The EFF's Godrich Gardee says the party is satisfied with its results thus far and they look forward to the results of the larger metros as results of yesterday's local election results begin to trickle in...
Minor glitches have been experienced at a voting station in Athlone in the Western Cape. A voting station in ward 49 in Kewtown opened a few minutes late after experiencing some technical problems. Berenice Moss reports that small groups of residents have been waiting since the crack of dawn to ensure they make their mark in the Local Government Elections. We spoke to our reporter Berenice Moss....
As South Africans head to the polls today, it remains to be seem which parties were able to reach and convince more people to vote for them. Our listener and Data Scientist, Phillip Massie has found that smaller political parties are not able to reach as many prospective voters as the bigger ones due to budget constraints...
While a number of residents are going to the polling stations to cast their votes in many parts of Vuwani, in areas such as Mashau and Vyeboom some stations had not yet received even a single voter by half past ten this morning. In Mashau 19 schools were set alight during the anti-demarcation protest three months ago. We spoke to our reporter, Witness Tiva....
News from Marikana in NorthWest is that scores of people will not be able to cast their votes today, as they are registered elsewhere in the country. Most of the affected people are migrant labourers and job seekers who flock to the platinum rich area. We spoke to the SABC's Itumeleng Kgajane....
The IEC in the Eastern Cape says the tents that fell in Port Elizabeth are being re-erected. This after some fell tents used as voting stations in the metro were blown away by strong winds . IEC provincial electoral officer Thamie Mraji says the situation is under control and a team is currently dealing with this proble. We spoke to our reporter in the province, Camagwini Mavovana ....
Voting has commenced at Ward 22 in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. The ward which is made up by Daku, Njoli and KwaZakhele was regarded as one of the hotsposts in the Nelson Mandela Metro following weeks of protest by residents accusing the ANC of imposing the ward candidate on them. A group of residents clashed with ANC volunteers during the campaign refusing to let them campaign in the ward. We spoke to our reporter in Lusikisiki, Khaya Gobo....
Millions of South Africans cast their votes in this year's municipal elections, we spoke to Dr. Ndumiso Cingo who is Innovation Manager at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on election predictions and what to expect from these elections...
The IEC in the Northern Cape says while it does not expect any incidents at voting stations during the elections, security forces will be on high alert in volatile areas such as Joe Morolong in Kuruman. Presiding officers in the Sol Plaatjie Municipal area queued in the early hours of the morning to collect voting material for their respective voting stations. We spoke to Senior SABC Journalist Mercedes Besent ...
Lawyers representing 38 Marikana protesters will launch a civil lawsuit against the state, for what they termed the unlawful detention of their clients. The 38 accused appeared in the Rustenburg Magistrate's Court in the North West for public violence on Monday. The group was protesting at Wonderkop in Marikana, demanding employment from local mining companies, including Lonmin. An IEC voting station was torched and a bus belonging to Lonmin was also set alight during the protests. Lucas Mothibedi compiled this report...
The Independent Electoral Commission says it has made sufficient provisions across the country to ensure smooth voting for both special vote days as well as Wednesday's local government elections. This as political parties gear up for a fierce battle for the that all important X. We spoke to Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) vice-chairperson, Terry Tselane....
Gauteng garages are running dry as the strike by the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers Union (CEPPWAWU) members continues. Fuel suppliers say the strike is hampering delivery to filling stations. Bongiwe Hobongwana an Engen filling station owner in the Vaal, says her stock was depleted on Saturday...
The highly contested Nelson Mandela Bay Metro continues to be a battle field as special votes are cast ahead of Wednesday's municipal elections. Mayoral candidates, Athol Trollip and Danny Jordaan made a few stops to encourage voters to turn out in numbers and are both confident of victory. Our reporter Thandi Setokoe has more....
Market Analyst, Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian shares down awaiting Reserve Bank of Australia rates decision, Japan’s Prime minister Shinzo Abe cabinet expected to approve fiscal steps to boost growth and Zimbabwe likely to charge farmers rent on land seized from white....
President Jacob Zuma has assured the nation that tight security measures have been put in place to ensure that no criminal or violent incidents will mar Wednesday's local government elections. There are about 26 million voters who have registered for what has been termed as the most competitive and closely contested municipal polls since the advent of democracy in 1994. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng filed this report....
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) - which co-ordinates all security and law enforcement operations- has gone to Vuwani in Limpopo to assess the area ahead of Wednesday's local government elections. This follows threats by some Vuwani residents that no elections will take place in the area. Our reporter in Vuwani, Witness Tivha and the Acting National Police Commissioner, Kgomotso Phahlane....
Trade union Solidarity and the SAPS have reached a historic settlement that directly affects the promotion of more than three-thousand SAPS members. Solidarity says in terms of the settlement, the SAPS has conceded that its current employment equity plan has to be amended. This follows the recent Constitutional Court ruling in the trade union's case against the Correctional Services Department. We spoke to Solidarity legal officer, Renate Barnard ...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela talks Asian sharing rise as expectations for U.S. Feds to raise interest rates is highly unlikely, China Purchasing Managers Index in contraction territory and Morgan Stanley warning forex traders that the worst is to come for the Dollar.
The South African Petroleum Industry Association (Sapia) says motorists should not panic over shortages of petrol because most of the petrol attendants are not taking part in the strike. This is despite reports that some petrol stations are already running out of petrol. Workers affiliated to the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers Union (CEPPWAWU) downed tools on Thursday after salary negotiations failed. We speak to Executive Director of the South African Petroleum Industry Association, Avhapfani Tshifularo....
Several Vuwani residents in Limpopo, including a member of pro-Makhado task team, have been arrestedon undisclosed charges this morning. The team has led the opposition to a new municipality in the area and also rejected a new municipal demarcation plan presented last week. Police say they'll give details of the charges the residents are facing later. We spoke to our reporter, Witness Tivha...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela talks Asian shares rising as expectations for U.S. Feds to raise interest rates is highly unlikely, China Purchasing Managers Index in contraction territory and Morgan Stanley warning forex traders that the worst is to come for the Dollar...
Nadir Thokan looks at South African trade balance numbers that came out on Friday, US GDP growth numbers that came out on Friday and the consequences of negative yielding debt....
As South Africans prepare for the local government elections next week, it appears some citizens are still to experience the benefits of the freedom won in 1994. In the town of Vredendal in the Matzikama District of the Western Cape, people speak freely about some places where black people may not venture. Even the infamous tot system is alive and well on some wine farms here. Joseph Mosia visited the area and brings us this report...
Co-operative Governance Minister Des Van Royen and eight traditional leaders in the Vuwani area have signed an agreement under which government will start the process of re-determining the new municipality that will be established in Vhembe's boundaries two weeks after next week's election. The chiefs, for their part, have undertaken to restore normality in Vuwani. A three-month protest by residents opposed to their inclusion in the municipality has seen some violence and a service shutdown. One of the community leaders, Nsobo Sambo however says they are not part of the agreement. Pimani Baloyi reports...
The DA in the North West has successfully appealed the decision by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to disqualify two of its ward candidates from contesting next week's local government elections. The IEC said the party submitted the candidates' names after the closing date of the 2nd June. However, the DA argued that they followed all the correct procedures. Sisi Segalo reports...
ACDP leader, Kenneth Meshoe has asked voters to vote for a party that promotes respect. Meshoe took his campaign to an old age home in Kraaifontein (outside Cape Town) where he told the elderly that his party is based on Christian moral values. He responded to DA and ANC statements that a vote for smaller parties is a wasted vote. Thandiswa Mawu reports...
Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services Siyabonga Cwele plans to take legal action against the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) following a decion by the regulator to auction a wireless broadband spectrum. The Democratic Alliance has written to Minister Cwele to urge him to halt his office's legal action saying the matter has been subjected to politically inspired delays. The auction for the licences is expected to occur in January next year. For more on this Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services Siyabonga Cwele together with World Wide Worx Managing Director Arthur Goldstuck had this to say
Government has offered to help residents of Tembisa on Gauteng's East Rand whose houses were damaged on Tuesday's tornado. About 400 people have been displaced and a number of properties damaged, including the Phumlani shopping mall, a filling station and section of the Tembisa hospital. Several people were treated for injuries. Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Ekurhuleni mayor Mondli Gungubele visited the area to assess the damage. Pearl Magubane reports.....
EFF leader Julius Malema has paid a visit to the tornado victims at Tembisa on the East Rand. Malema says he abandoned the community meeting that was scheduled there to avoid being labelled as opportunistic. However, he pledged help for those who lost their homes. Malema visited the East Rand on Wednesday calling for voters to give his 3-year-old party a chance. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe says the former liberation war fighters behind a communiqué which labelled him a dictator will be found and punished. President Mugabe was reacting for the first time since the war veterans association of which he is patron, blamed him for worsening economy and poor human rights record in that country. Thousands of party supporters including war veterans,collaborators and youth, gathered in Harare yesterday, to show support for the veteran leader. The national executive members who called him a dictator did not attend the meeting. This report by Shingai Nyoka....
Axed SABC journalists are expected to report back to work this morning (thursday 28 July). This comes after the SABC announced that it will reinstate the seven dismissed news employees. This has been widely welcomed by organisations which have been opposed to the journalists dismissal and the SABC's decision not to show visuals of protests. Tshepo Phagane reports.
An estimated 18 people have been killed or had attempts made on their lives in suspected political killings since the beginning of this year. This is according to Police Minister Nathi Nhleko. He briefed journalists in Parliament on the progress of a task team established to look into suspected political murders, particularly in KZN. In KwaZulu-Natal alone, the task team is investigating 25 cases of violence linked to suspected political killings. The task team consists of among others, the police's crime intelligence unit and the Hawks. Zalene Merrington reports...
Confusion remains regarding who the rightful beneficiaries of the newly-built RDP Houses in Marikana West, outside Rustenburg in the North West, are. Mining giant, Lonmin, has for the first time revealed details regarding an agreement between the Rustenburg municipality and community leaders. Currently, the houses have been illegally and forcefully occupied by residents, including mine-workers. Lonmin says no mine-worker can qualify for an RDP house. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi reports from Marikana...
Solidarity's Dirk Hermann says they are disappointed with SABC's intention to appeal the labour court ruling that found the dismissal of four journalists unlawful. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Dirk Hermann
IEC in the North West, is on high-alert, following the torching of one of its voting stations in Wonderkop in Marikana. The Commission says, it is monitoring all areas, considered to be political hot-spots ahead of next weeks' polls. Make-shifts voting stations, in a form of tents and other alternatives, will be sent to those areas. Protesting residents in Wonderkop, torched a local hall, earmarked to be used as a voting station - saying the local mining giants, Lonmin is deliberately overlooking them, in its employment of workers. A bus belonging to the company was also set alight. Lucas Mothibedi reports......
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is increasingly being targeted in political protest hotspots. That's accorrding to the Institute for Security Studies crime and justice hub manager, Lizette Lancaster. Lancaster was briefing a seminar on the causes of protests, focusing on violent protests. She says South Africans do not necessarily protest more than they did in the past‚ but they are protesting more violently. For more on this we are joined on the line by Institute for Security Studies crime and justice hub manager, Lizette Lancaster
The wife of late race car, Gugu Zulu - Letshego has thanked South Africa for the support and condolence messages. She unexpectedly took to the podium to express her gratitude yesterday (Tuesday 26 July) during Zulu's memorial service at the Kyalami Race Track in Midrand. The "Fastest Brother in Africa" died last week while attepting to summit Mount Kilimanjaro as part of the Trek4Mandela initiative. Noma Bolani attended the memorial service and filed this report...
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says there would be a logistical nightmare if the local government election system were changed to allow voters to cast their ballots anywhere in the country if they are outside their voting districts on election day. This comes as media workers, police and health workers are required to work on election day, even if it is declared a public holiday. The IEC says there are close to five-thousand different ballot papers for the municipal elections. Mercedes Besent reports ..........
Government and community leaders in Vuwani in Limpopo have reached an agreement that will see schooling resume from next month. There's been no schooling for about three months in the area as residents protested against a decision to incorporate their area into a new municipality. More than 20 schools were either burnt or vandalised during the protests. For more on this we are joined on the line by Spokesperson for the Pro-Makhado Forum, Nsovo Sambo
The South African Union of Students says it is ready to go on a year-long holiday should government fail to introduce free education from next year. In January, a commission of inquiry into the feasibility free higher education was appointed and given eight months to conduct its investigations. The student body says it is not willing to engage in any talks with the commission if it does not promise free education. We caught up with both the president of the South African Union of Students, Avela Mjajubana and the spokesperson for the Department of Higher Education and Training, Khaye Nkwanyana for more details...
Market Analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela talks Asian shares declining as uncertainty grips the markets, emerging market stocks becoming main attraction in a post Brexit world, Yahoo core business acquisition by Verizon communication and JSE programming error misrepresent data....
Judgement in the case of four axed SABC journalists will be handed down at the Labour Court in Johannesburg this morning. The urgent application by Trade Union Solidarity on behalf of the journalists was heard on Friday at the Labour Court in Johannesburg. The four are challenging their dismissal by the public broadcaster. They're part of a group of eight journalists who were sacked by the SABC on various grounds after they challenged its editorial policy. Sashin Naidoo reports
Several roads have been closed in Maclear, Barkley East, Elliot and Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape due to heavy snow falls overnight. More than 30 cm of snow has fallen in low lying areas, covering most of the roads in various farming towns. Fundiswa Mhlekude reports....
Cold weather conditions and snow are being experienced in Qwaqwa in the eastern Free State. The area has been hard-hit by the worst drought in decades and it is hoped that the snow will help to alleviate the drought. Konelo Lekhafola reports
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Manager looks at what are the US earnings season and the results so far, Amplats interim earnings came out yesterday and the amount of negative yielding debt in the world and what consequences are.
@ShoeshoeQhu looks at news stories dominating conversation on the internet and the social media platforms.
A peace agreement has been signed between feuding factions at the troubled Glebelands Hostel at Umlazi, south of Durban. More than sixty people have been killed at the hostel over the past two years in a conflict allegedly over bed allocations. Meanwhile the IFP has condemned the killing of two of its members at Estcourt in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. The killings took place while the men were conducting door-to-door campaigns in the area. This incident comes shortly after KwaZulu-Natal Premier Wilies Mchunu announced a commission of inquiry to probe political killings in the province. For more on this Premier Wilies Mchunu
The KwaZulu Natal Emergency Medical Services is warning motorists to be vigilant as driving conditions are bad and roads slippery. This follows reports of snowfalls at different parts of KwaZulu Natal. We spoke to Spokesperson for the KwaZulu Natal Emergency Medical Services, Robert McKenzie about the latest.....
As more South Africans become heavily indebted, some consumers who can no longer afford to pay their car installments have turned to leasing their vehicles to blacklisted third parties through a new informal scheme called installments takeover. Banks have warned against the scheme saying it is illegal and dangerous. We spoke to Head of Communication at WesBank, Rudolf Mahoney....
DA leader Mmusi Maimane says his party has broken racial barriers. Addressing party supporters at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Missionville, Port Elizabeth, Maimane says the party has grown beyond colour and class. Maimane is in one of the most contested metros in the country and says he's confident that mayoral candidate, Atholl Trollip, will win the August 3rd elections. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana compiled this report...
President Jacob Zuma launched a scathing attack on opposition parties as he began the final push for votes ahead of next Wednesday's elections. Zuma told residents of Ga-Seleka village in Lephalale, Limpopo - that voting for opposition party is a wasted vote as they only help the politicians to get parliamentary seats. Deputy political editor Mahlatse Gallens was there and filed this report…
Economic Freedom Fighters' leader Julius Malema has called on party supporters not to destroy public property during protests. He was speaking during the party's election rally at Zamdela township in Sasolburg. Zamdela in the freestate has seen violent service delivery protests in the past. Malema says residents should rather express their unhappiness through the ballot in the upcoming municipal elections by voting the EFF into power. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Inkatha Freedom Party leader iNkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi says there are death threats directed at party candidates allegedly by people who want to force bi-elections soon after elections. Buthelezi was addressing the party's mini-rally in Nongoma on the northern KwaZulu-Natal. The veteran leader also said they sympathise with the National Freedom Party (NFP) for being disqualified from contesting the next month municipal elections. Vusi Makhosini reports....
SAfm's passionate listener and a regular caller Desmond Makhaya has died at the age of 80. Mr Makhanya passed away on Saturday last week after a battle with cancer. He was born near Adam's Mission in Amanzimtoti in Kwazulu/Natal, on 14 September 1935
Update From The Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly.
- Turning Joburg’s mine dump sand into gold is adding R14-billion to the South African economy a year.
2.The new Taxation Laws Amendment Bill has muddied the waters just as hopes of tax reform were beginning to rise
- A new ruling shows that the courts won’t easily endorse the new Mining Charter’s blunt arithmetical quotas.
Eskom's board has been criticised for its apparent decision not to sign on new Independent Power Producers (IPP). Eskom's National Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe says the power utility is consulting with the Department of Energy on whether to sign new Independent Power Producers (IPP) beyond this 4.5 face. He joins us on the line to tell us more.
South African Airways has cancelled its deal with boutique financier BnP Capital. BnP was appointed to advise the SAA how to restructure its 15 billion rand debt at a fee of 256 million rand. Last week the airline said it had placed the deal on hold following legal threats by lobby group, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse -outa. Speaking to my colleague Ike Paahla on PM Live yesterday SAA spokesperson Tladi Tladi refuted claims that there was corruption in the appointment of BnP, citing that all due processes were followed. OUTA Chairperson Wayne Duvenage has the details...
A movement called 'Keya Rona' based in the Vaal is calling for grave fees in the area to be scrapped. Dubbed 'grave fees must fall' the campaign demands free burial spaces, free tombstones and an end to privatisation of basic services, among other grievances. A spokesperson for the movement says poor people are forced to pay as much as R4000 to bury their loved ones. Bricks Mokolo, spokesperson for Keya Rona Movement joins us on the line
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks drop after weak corporate results have put a stop to Wall street's record run, U.K Retail sales fall by 0.9% and Apple's Chinese revenue could fall by up to 20%.
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at SARB keeps rates on hold as growth outlook deteriorated significantly, the European Central Bank holds back on stimulus and the Bank of Japan says helicopter money is not an option.
Wits University has urged that the commission of inquiry into the 'hashtag feesmustfall' campaign be fast-tracked to ensure violent protests do not erupt again this year. President Jacob Zuma appointed the inquiry to look into the feasibility of free higher education in South Africa following protests by students which began in October last year in response to an increase in university fees. Wits deputy vice-chancellor Tawana Kupe says an interim solution is needed until the commission presents it findings and recommendations. For more on this Wits University deputy vice-chancellor Tawana Kupe joined us for a chat...
The SABC has agreed to abide by the Independent Communications Authority's order to reverse its decisions NOT to broadcast violent protests. Last week the regulator ordered the public broadcaster to withdraw its decision to stop broadcasting video footage of violent protests. Icasa says it's satisfied that the SABC has decided that it will comply with the order. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC lawyer Titus Mchunu
The independent electoral commission has expressed great concern over the on-going violence ahead of the August 3rd local government elections. As many as ten ANC members including councillor candidates have been killed in politically related violence in KwaZulu Natal alone. The commission has called for maximum restraint saying its powers to deal with the violence are limited. The electoral body was briefing the media about the state of readiness for the elections in Pretoria. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports......
South Africans have been urged to continue participating in the Trek for Mandela expedition to honour the life of Gugu Zulu who died while climbing mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The Trek for Mandela team arrived home to a very sombre welcome. This follows the passing of Race Car Driver Gugu Zulu who was part of the forty South Africans who went to climb Kilimanjaro for Mandela Day. SABC's Horisani Sithole was at the OR Tambo International Airport and has filed this report...
The Pretoria north regional court has heard that DA MP and former senior prosecutor, Glynnis Breytenbach and her lawyer, Gerhard Wagenaar, were aggressive when she was served with notice of suspension in 2012. This was revealed in court by NPA System Administrator, Eudele Swart, and NPA Security and Risk Specialist, Victor Xaba. Defence lawyer Barry Roux disputed this, saying Wagenaar was decisive, but not aggressive. Maluti Obuseng filed this report
Limpopo's Co-operative Governance MEC, Makoma Makhurupetje, says preparations are well underway for the new municipality in the Vhembe District. Makhurupetje says the seat of the new municipality will be in Malamulele until the municipal council takes a decision on its permanent seat. This comes amid rumours that offices will be built in Vuwani, where some residents do not want their area to be incorporated into a new entity. The new municipality which hasn't been named yet - will encompass some parts of Malamulele and Vuwani. Witness Tiva reports...
Limpopo's Co-operative Governance MEC, Makoma Makhurupetje, says preparations are well underway for the new municipality in the Vhembe District. Makhurupetje says the seat of the new municipality will be in Malamulele until the municipal council takes a decision on its permanent seat. This comes amid rumours that offices will be built in Vuwani, where some residents do not want their area to be incorporated into a new entity. The new municipality which hasn't been named yet - will encompass some parts of Malamulele and Vuwani. Witness Tiva reports
The independent electoral commission has expressed great concern over the on-going violence ahead of the August 3rd local government elections. As many as ten ANC members including councillor candidates have been killed in politically related violence in KwaZulu Natal alone. The commission has called for maximum restraint saying its powers to deal with the violence are limited. The electoral body was briefing the media about the state of readiness for the elections in Pretoria. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Close to ten thousand Zimbabweans have marched through the streets of Harare in support of President Robert Mugabe. The veteran leader has been under increasing public pressure to step down. Marchers, led by his party's youth league, say they won't tolerate protests against him. Shingai Nyoka reports
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal says it believes the spate of killings in the province is a ploy to intimidate and demoralise their candidates and volunteers ahead of the local government elections. More than ten ANC members including candidates for the coming local government elections have been killed this year. On Monday, two of the party's ward candidates were gunned down in separate incidents. Mbuso Mkhize reports
New York businessman, Donald Trump is officially the nominee for the Republican Party after he officially accepts the nomination tomorrow. This report by Sherwin Bryce-Pease in Cleveland, Ohio.
Eskom says the increase in backyard dwellers in some parts of the country and illegal electricity connections are adding pressure to the electricity network. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Eskom Group Chief Executive Brian Molefe who says this is the main reason why electricity trips sometimes, causing blackouts in some areas.
The International Monetary Fund- IMF says that the political uncertainty in the country and concerns around governance matters continue to shake investor confidence. The institution says high levels of corruption in the country are also impeding economic growth.. MorafeTabane reports
Economist and head of ETM Analytic, Jana van Deventer looks at what the failed military coup in Turkey means for emerging markets and how investors view these countries as investment destinations and oil markets having not done well since the beginning of July, will this impacts the average South African.
South Africa's Dr. Nkosozana Dlamini-Zuma will continue as chairperson of the African Union Commission until January next year when elections to replace her will be held. The elections were suspended after all three candidates failed to receive the required two thirds of the votes cast. The deputy chairperson Erastus Mwencha as well commissioners who were due for retirement, will remain in office. Dr. Dlamini-Zuma has expressed her wish to retire after only one four- year term. We spoke to a fellow at the Thabo Mbeki African Leadership Institute at Unisa, Dr Richard Iroanya....
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian shares slipping as the decline in crude oil curbed the enthusiasm on Wall Street, Oil prices falling on concerns of oversupply despite cuts in Shale production and three U.S states planning lawsuits over Volkswagen diesel pollution even after they announced settlements in June....
Another ANC ward candidate has been shot dead, this time at Harding in southern KwaZulu-Natal. Bongani Skhosana was transporting scholars in his mini bus when unknown gunmen opened fire, killing him in full view of the children. Skhosana is the fifth ANC candidate to be killed during the election period. Meanwhile, the party's offices at Richmond in the midlands have been set on fire by unknown people. Vusi Makhosini reports....
Trade union solidarity is going to be representing the journalists at the labour court on Thursday. We are now joined on the line by one of the lawyers under trade union Solidarity representing the SABC journalists, Anton van der Bilj
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Chairperson of Media Freedom Sub Commitee at South Africa's National Editor's Forum, Sam Mkhokheli who journalists should challenge decisions that are made by the corporations. Mkhokheli was responding to the public broadcasters decision to dismiss four of the eight journalists who have taken the corporation to court.
Another ANC ward candidate has been shot dead, this time at Harding in southern KwaZulu-Natal. Bongani Skhosana was transporting scholars in his mini bus when unknown gunmen opened fire, killing him in full view of the children. Skhosana is the fifth ANC candidate to be killed during the election period. Meanwhile, the party's offices at Richmond in the midlands have been set on fire by unknown people. Vusi Makhosini reports
Hopes of an imminent cure for HIV/Aids are diminishing following statements by leading researchers at the International Aids Conference in Durban. Some scientists at the conference say there has been progress regarding treatment and if used properly it can dramatically increase life expectancy. We caught up with general secretary of the Treatment Action Campaign, Anele Yawa for more deails
South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has expressed concern about what it says is government's waning commitment to international law and human rights. The organisation has written a letter to International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, cautioning against reported plans to withdraw from the International Criminal Court and questioning voting decisions at the United Nations. For more on this we are joined on the line by South African Human Rights Commission chairman Advocate Lawrence Mushwana
Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB, Mohammed Nalla speaks South Africa mining remaining in decline over the year, BOE surprising markets with no rate cut and Chinese GDP beating the market expectation.....
The Constitutional Court will this morning hand down its much-anticipated decision in an affirmative action case lodged, for the first time ever, by a previously disadvantaged group. A group of coloured employees say they were unfairly overlooked for promotion within the Western Cape Department of Correctional Services because of the colour of their skin. The case concerns the Department's Employment Equity Policy and the fact that it does not take into account regional demographics. Senior constitutional court reporter Candice Nolan reports
African Union Heads of State will decide this week whether to expand the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in South Sudan. Rwanda's Foreign Affairs Minister Louise Mushikiwabo says the latest fighting in South Sudan - the world's newest nation - will be given priority when African Presidents meet in Kigali. The mandate of United Nations Mission for South Sudan will expire at the end of this month, but there are proposals for an extension until the end of August and also the expansion of the troops' mandate to include combat. Recent clashes in the capital Juba left more than 270 people dead. Sarah Kimani reports from Kigali
The Constitutional Court will hand down judgment on Thursday on whether the Extension of Security of Tenure Act or ESTA covers the spouse of a farm worker. A rural woman has asked that the court recognise her right of occupation as independent from her husband. Elsie Klaase says she has lived on the farm all her life and has nowhere else to go. She was ordered to move out after her husband was fired. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan compiled this report after the September hearing...
The Sex Workers Education and Advocacy Taskforce has again called for the decriminalisation of sex work. Various organisations including SWEAT and the Women's Legal Centre met in Cape Town on Wednesday to discuss problems in the sex industry ahead of the 21st International Aids Conference in Durban next week. Chris Mabuya reports....
Illegal initiation school operators could begin to feel the full might of the law from next year. Co-operative Governance Deputy Minister Obed Bapela has committed to ensuring that government passes a law to criminalise illegal schools, abductions and initiating boys under the age of 18. Bapela was speaking in Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, where he was responding to a call by three parents whose children were abducted while playing soccer in the area, three weeks ago. Horisani Sithole reports...
Britain has chosen its new Prime Minister, Theresa May. She takes over from David Cameron who has led Britain as Prime Minister for six years. May is the second female Prime Minister after Margaret Thatcher. To help us look at the legacy David Cameron left and who Theresa May is, we are joined on the line by the CEO of the Mzala Nxumalo Centre, Dr Bheki Mngomezulu.
Eight people have been killed in a fire which broke out at an orphanage at Parlock near Durban early this morning. KwaZulu-Natal Emergency Medical Services's spokesperson Robert MacKenzie has the details...
Government employees and members of the public will now have the opportunity to access affordable housing finance following a R10.5 billion investment in SA Home Loans (SAHL). Government Employees Pension Fund says the initiative is part of plans to provide cheaper mortgages and build more houses. The Home Loans be available to its 1.2 million active members who qualify for credit and will also yield social returns with loans extended at competitive rates. For more on this we spoke to Government Employees Pension Fund Principal Executive Officer Abel Sithole
Armscor, has assembled a team of "cyber experts" to analyse the extent of a breach of its computer systems. This comes after sensitive tender information was stolen from its computers. Armsco's computers system was hacked by hacktivist group, Anonymous. It is understood that 63 megabytes of secret information was leaked. To help us look at the motivations behind these hacking, we are joined on the line by Cyber security expert at Cyanre, Danny Myburgh.
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian shares hovering near eight-month peak on Bank of England rate cut, South Africa investigating possible insider trading at Discovery and Thursday investment theme which is Crisis in Zimbabwe the SADC region....
Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB, Mohammed Nalla speaks South Africa retail sales strengthening despite expecting, South Africa being back to second largest economy in Africa after Nigeria and the United State beige book continuing to show modest economic growth....
A Zimbabwean preacher leading protests against President Robert Mugabe has been charged with inciting public violence. In a video recorded before his arrest, Baptist minister Evan Mawarire urged supporters to go ahead with demonstrations planned for today and tomorrow, (Wednesday and Thursday) as part of the 'hashtag-ThisFlag' movement, against alleged corruption, ailing economy and rights abuses. Last Friday police summoned and arrested the spokesperson for Tajamuka-Sesijikile Campaignon on charges of public violence. Promise Mkwananzi was later released on bail. We caught up with him together with our correspondent in ZImbabwe Shingai Nyoka...
Some of the 62 candidates nominated for the position of public protector, have charges ranging from rape to having links to the Gupta family. This follows a vetting exercise that was conducted by Corruption Watch and the Democratic Governance and Rights Unit (DGRU), to help establish the suitability of these nominees. The list of the candidates is with the parliamentary ad hoc committee responsible for overseeing the selection of the next public protector. The Head of Communications for Corruption Watch, Moira Campbell, joins us on the line to tell us more.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Shares continuing to do well, close to reaching 2016 peak as the appetite for risk improves, Cleveland Fed President Loretta Mester confident by the U.S. job rebound in June, Ex-Barclays director Steven McClatchey pleads guilty to insider trading and Nintendo shares falling by 6% due to growing log in complaints to Pokemon Go Austraila.....
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at SA manufacturing suprise to upside, Oil rebounds and the Japanese Yen continues to slide
Election campaigns are heating up - going to the most rural parts of the country. Political parties in the Khai-Ma Local Municipality in the Namakwa region are pulling out all the stops - to capture the hearts and minds of communities for the upcoming local government elections. It is often not an easy job as locals demand answers and express unhappiness over the lack of proper housing, eletricity and unemployment. As part of election features, our reporter Neo Bodumela visited Namakwa in the Khai-Ma local municipality in the Northern Cape and filed this report.
The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth is on a shut down. Students are demanding among other things a debt relief for those who are on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The spokesperson for the university, Debbie Derry, joined us for the latest details.
South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has declared what he calls a unilateral ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, and ordered government troops to "disengage" from fighting rival forces loyal to Vice President Riek Machar. This follows days of violence that left hundreds dead. It's been reported that renewed fighting broke out yesterday between forces loyal to the Kiir and Machar. A reporter in the capital, Juba, told the BBC gunfire and large explosions could be heard all over the city. For more on this we are joined on the line by head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in South Sudan, Jürg Eglin, including Independent commentator and former diplomat Tom Wheeler...
As the world marks the 7th annual Nelson Mandela International Day next week, SAfm Radio Current Affairs in partnership with NGO, Gift of the Givers, Nedbank, financial services company, Allianz, Mercedes Benz South Africa and a host of other sponsors will be lending a hand to NGO, Youth Express Network in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. For more on this we are now joined on the line by the chairman and founder of NGO, Gift of the Givers, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman...
Rustenburg in the North West was established in 1851, and the Afrikaans name translates into "resting place". But the town knows no rest these days, as every major political party wants to govern it. The Rustenburg Local Municipality is home to 626-thousand people. It is one of the country's mining hubs and one of the tourist attractions in the platinum province. It has grown over the years, to become not only the producer of agricultural products, but also the world's key platinum producing town. Three of the world's major platinum producers, Amplats, Impala and Lonmin have mines here. The council has a budget of three point three billion rand, but it is plagued by irregular expenditure. Almost all the political parties are criss-crossing the Rustenburg Local Municipality, drumming up support before the August 3 Local Government Elections. Itumeleng Kgajane tells us about the election fever in Rustenburg
The latest survey from Statistics South Africa has revealed that access to basic services such as water, electricity and housing in the Eastern Cape has improved during the past twenty years. This information was part of the 2016 mini-census community survey by Statistics SA that was released at the Provincial Legislature in Bhisho. The figures reveal that the province is the third most populous with close to seven million people. Yanga Funani has more on the story.
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at how the rand is world's best performing currency over the last month, the Pound holds ground as UK selects new Prime Minister and US stocks close at all time high
The SABC will challenge the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa's ruling against the public broadcasters' decision to ban showing visuals of destruction of public property during violent protests. ICASA announced its ruling in Sandton, north of Johannesburg today (monday 11 July). Civil society organisations, including the Right to Know and the Save Our SABC Coalition had lodged a complaint with ICASA, saying the SABC's decision was in violation of its role as a public broadcaster. Noma Bolani and Wisani Makhubele compiled this report
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Des Van Rooyen went to visit Tlokwe last week, to find out progress made on putting voter's addresses on the voters roll. This was his second visit in a week and he expressed appreciation in the work done so far. The minister made these visits as a chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Elections and spoke to us about the current situation...
Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB, Mohammed Nalla speaks US jobs data showing continued strength, supporting risk, Asian markets upbeat as Japan prepares for stimulus and oil continuing to slide from late last week....
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Stocks which sank with the pound as haven demands boosted bonds and gold....
The National Freedom Party (NFP) will be contesting the August 03 municipal election. The party will be contesting the eNquthu Municipality. Last week‚ the Electoral Court dismissed the party's bid to be included on the ballot paper after it missed the Electoral Commission of SA's payment deadline.We spoke to the NFP's NEC Member Manzzor Sheik Imam
Eleven people have been killed and seven others sustained serious injuries when a bakkie they were travelling in overturned. The crash happened at Kwa Mbotho near Harding in the Ugu District on the KwaZulu Natal, last night. We spoke to KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mxolisi Kaunda...
IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi has called on his party members not to resort to violence as means to resolve political differences. He was speaking at the launch of his party's provincial manifesto in Katlehong, east of Johannesburg on sunday. Buthelezi says he is aware of what he described as desperate attempts by apparent National Freedom Party members to use the IFP as a scapegoat in its alleged bid to have local government elections posted. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
The Department of Culture, Arts and Traditional Affairs is closing illegal initiation schools in the North West. A school in Syferlaagte outside Klerksdorp has become the latest to be closed. Five young boys who were discovered in the bushy area were rescued and taken to the hospital before being transferred to a legal initiation school nearby. Sisi Segalo reports
Government says improved relations between South Africa and France will benefit ordinary South Africans. President Jacob Zuma is in the French capital Paris on a two day state visit aimed at advancing economic relations between the two countries. France is currently South Africa's 4th biggest trading partner in the European Union after Germany, the UK and Italy. Both President Zuma and his French Francois Hollande are expected to sign three bilateral agreements. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more
The Mpumalanga Health Department has spent over 60 million rand to revamp the Sabie hospital. The department officially opened a new wing after the locals raised concerns about the bad state of the hospital. This report was compiled by Tumelo Machogo and Vusi Twala reports
Nerina Visser, strategist at ETF SA looks at SA financial shares which are under pressure in the aftershock of the Brexit vote two weeks ago, Bond yields resume their falling trend, and in most of Europe...
As the economy continues to slow down, the premier of Gauteng David Makhura has appealed to investors to give young people opportunities to participate in the mainstream economy. Makhura says young people are growing impatient as the majority of them are unemployed. He was addressing French investors with business operations in South Africa. MorafeTabane report.....
South Africa's economic growth has been cut to 0.1 percent for 2016. This is a fall from1.3 percent last year. In their latest annual assessment, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) says in order to revive the country's economy, decisive action needs to be taken. We spoke to IMF's Senior Resident Representative in South Africa, Axel Schimmelpfennig....
The threat to children with albinism in uMhlabuyalingana in northern KwaZulu-Natal has forced some families to place them in hiding as fear for their lives grows. This comes after the arrest of a 28 year-old woman while allegedly trying to sell a 12-year-old boy with albinism to a traditional healer for 100 thousand rand at Manguzi in the northern part of the province. In August last year, a 21 year-old woman with albinism Thandazile Mpunzi was murdered for her body parts. Her three murderers - who are currently serving 18 to 20 years imprisonment - admitted in court they procured her body parts for muthi purposes in order to get rich. Vusi Khumalo visited the area in the wake of the new developments...
The Independent Electoral commission is working hard to rectify the voters roll in the amalgamated Tlokwe and Ventersdorp municipalities in the North-Wes. The IEC has to finalise the addresses by the fifteen of this month as a Constitutional Court order. The commission is to open voting stations this morning for people to go and verify their addresses. Zebilon Maine reports...
Pikitup's Managing Director, Amanda Nair has been placed on special leave. This after an internal enquiry found that she had transgressed the Johannesburg refuse removal utility's internal policies. Trade union SAMWU has accused Nair of nepotism and financial mismanagement. Workers had been striking on and off over Nair since last October. Managing director of Johannesburg Water Lungile Dhlamini will take over as acting MD from Monday. We spoke to Pikitup spokesperson Jacky Mashapu...
The threat to children with albinism in uMhlabuyalingana in northern KwaZulu-Natal has forced some families to place them in hiding as fear for their lives grows. This comes after the arrest of a 28 year-old woman while allegedly trying to sell a 12-year-old boy with albinism to a traditional healer for 100 thousand rand at Manguzi in the northern part of the province. In August last year, a 21 year-old woman with albinism Thandazile Mpunzi was murdered for her body parts. Her three murderers - who are currently serving 18 to 20 years imprisonment - admitted in court they procured her body parts for muthi purposes in order to get rich. Vusi Khumalo visited the area in the wake of the new developments
While the Zimbabwean government has given the assurance that the country's public servants will be paid, many on the ground fear that more needs to be done to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans. We spoke to a hawker in Harare who says they are struggling to survive...
A pension pay-out which normally takes two months, can take up to 10 years to be paid out by some government departments. This is according to a recent research report conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC). How does that happen? We spoke to Commissioner Lulu Sizani of the Public Service Commission....
The Zimbabwean government has given the assurance that the country's public servants will be paid. Most of Zimbabwe was closed for business and people stayed home following calls for a national shutdown in protest over a deteriorating economy yesterday. This comes as police assured the public they would deploy security and guarantee safe passage for all employees reporting for work and businesses which opened. We spoke to our correspent in Harare, Shingai Nyoka....
Nerina Visser, strategist at ETF SA looks at SA financial shares which are under pressure in the aftershock of the Brexit vote two weeks ago, Bond yields resume their falling trend, and in most of Europe, it is negative and Listed property investments in the UK have seen price drops of as much as 50% in just two weeks.
The icy weather in the Western Cape has created a winter wonderland of snow in high-lying areas. Local and international tourists have flocked to the Boland town of Ceres to enjoy the 4x4 trails and picturesque scenery. Ondela Bacela reports
EFF leader Julius Malema says corruption and maladministration has robbed the people of Mahikeng in the North West of a better life. He insists that those who are exposing corruption are killed. He cited former Rustenburg councillor, Moss Phakoe, and businessman Wandile Bozwana's killings as examples. The EFF is on the campaign trail this week in the North West. Patrick Dintwa reports
The convicted murderer, Oscar Pistorius, spent last night in prison. On Wednesday, Judge Thokozile Masipa sentenced him to 6 years in prison for killing his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, on Valentines day in 2013. Liela Magnus reports
IFP leader Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi has called on the NFP leadership to tell their members the truth about the reasons behind the party's failure to pay the IEC registration fee. Buthelezi addressed members of the media in Durban following violent protests allegedly by NFP members in Ulundi in northern KwaZulu-Natal. NFP members were reacting to the news that the Electoral Court has ruled against their party, disqualifying them from contesting the August local government elections. Buthelezi says the issue needs to be dealt with by the party's leadership. Khalesakhe Mbhense reports
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Stocks which sank with the pound as haven demands boosted bonds and gold....
Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA, Nerina Visser looks at the markets following disappointing 1st quarter employment statistics and the weaker rand not translating into a boost for either the mining or the tourism industry....
Muslims around the country will be celebrating Eid today, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This after the sighting of the moon last night. In Cape Town leaders of the Muslim Judicial Council and other senior members brave the cold rainy weather during a prayer gathering at Three Anchor Bay in Sea Point. Chris Mabuya reports
President Jacob Zuma has assured disgruntled ANC members in Tshwane region that the leadership of the ruling party is committed to easing the political tension created by the nomination of Thoko Didiza as a mayoral candidate for the Tshwane Metro. The announcement of Didiza as a mayoral candidate sparked a wave of violence and protests by members aligned to the incumbent mayor Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. Yesterday, the ANC dispatched President Zuma to several townships in Tshwane to boost the campaign to retain control of the capital city after the August 3rd local government elections. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
The EFF says it is ready to govern the beleaguered Tlokwe Local Municipality in the North West. Malema addressed hundreds of residents of Ikageng extension seven on a three day election campaign trail in the North West. The council has been embroiled in a protracted battle over legitimacy of the outcome of the last bi-election. Malema says his party is willing to work with the Tlokwe Independent candidates who are former ANC members and all the other political parties in Tlokwe except the ANC. Patrick Dintwa reports
Eskom's Chief executive officer, Brain Molefe says nuclear is the only source of energy that can provide affordable electricity to poor households. Molefe says while the intial cost of investment in nuclear is higher compared to other sources, it can still be financed. He was speaking during the company's financial results in Johnnesburg. Tshepo Mongoai reports
The ANC's sub committee on communications has come out guns blazing against the SABC management and board. Chairperson of the committee Jackson Mthembu - distanced the organisation from developments at the SABC. The public broadcaster has been making headlines for their controversial stance on news coverage, the resignation of its Acting CEO and the disciplinary action against some employees. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports
Convicted murderer, Oscar Pistorius, could find himself back in jail serving a lengthy sentence. That's according to criminal law experts. Today , Judge Thokozile Masipa is expected to hand down judgment in sentence in Pretoria's High Court. Pistorius's defence team argued last month for a non-custodial sentence while the state is looking for the minimum sentence of 15 years behind bars. The former athlete shot and killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp in February 2013. Noma Bolani reports..
Strategist & Advisor at ETF SA, Nerina Visser looks at the markets following the Stats SA release of the Q1 Employment Survey and the price of both petrol and diesel set to increase on Wednesday, despite recent strength in the Rand .....
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at precious metals led commodities that are higher, boosting mining stocks on speculation that central banks in some of the world’s leading economies will step up monetary stimulus.....
The current system of public transport subsidies is not sustainable as it supports largely the middle-class and not the poor. That's according to National Treasury intergovernmental relations deputy director-general Malijeng Ngqaleni who addressed the 35th annual Southern African Transport conference which ended on Thursday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to National Treasury intergovernmental relations deputy director-general Malijeng Ngqaleni joins us on the issue of taxi subsidies.
The killing of a human rights lawyer, his client and a driver has caused outrageous protests in Kenya. Hundreds of disgruntled Kenyans took to the streets with placards expressing their shock towards the killings. Three police officers have since been arrested in connection with the murder. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC's East African Correspondent, Sarah Kimani.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Community Safety and Liaison Mxolisi Kaunda, has called for calm after the killing of four people in the previously volatile KwaMaphumulo area, on the province'sl north coast. This comes after three people attending a traditional ceremony on Saturday were murdered when unknown gunmen opened fire on them. Two died on the scene, while the third died later in hospital. A fourth male victim who also attended the ceremony was shot while sleeping in a house in the early hours of Sunday. S'khangiwe Mthiyane reports
The South African economy shed fifteen-thousand jobs in the first quarter of 2016. This is according to the Stats SA's quarterly employment survey, which shows that the jobs were lost across all sectors of the economy. This is a decline of 0.2 per cent in the formal employment sector of the country's economy. Dimakatso Leshoro has the details
Cosatu has encouraged its member unions to balance wage demands with job security when salary negotiations begin. Cosatu general-secretary Bheki Ntshalintshali says the federation does not want unions to negotiate increases that will result in workers being retrenched and only a few enjoying the benefits. For more on this general secretary of Cosatu Bheki Ntshalintshali
The Independent Electoral Commission in the North West is again going to begin a process to verify addresses for voters in the Tlokwe and Ventersdorp municipalities. Tlokwe independent candidates are accusing the IEC of not having done enough to verify the addresses of voters appearing on the voters roll, as ordered by the constitutional court. Patrick Dintwa reports
Zimbabwe police fired tear gas to disperse protesting kombi drivers in the capital Harare yesterday. The kombis - the counterpart of South Africa's minibus taxis - were protesting against the number of roadblocks and what they call police brutality. At least one police officer was reported to have been injured. It's the second violent protest in Zimbabwe over the last few days, after a warehouse was torched at the border town of Beit Bridge on Friday. Shingai Nyoka reports
Within only two weeks into the beginning of the winter initiation season, 10 initiates are reported dead, with 100 rescued from the initiation school. 15 initiation schools are reported to be closed and the death toll is expected to rise. A few weeks ago, government has renewed its efforts to deal with initiation deaths by launching the winter initiation season and creating an initiation hotline. Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Obed Bapela
NFP NEC member, Ahmed Shaik-Emam, says there was gross misconduct by some party members leading to the party's failing to pay a deposit to the IEC for the upcoming municipal elections. Shaik-Emam says those members could be suspended...
The City of Tshwane says temporary shelter has been arranged for families affected by a shack fire at the Plastic View informal settlement. Hundreds of people were left homeless after the blaze that killed five residents. We spoke to City of Tshwane mayoral spokesperson Blessing Manale
The daughter of one of South Africa's most notorious criminals has written a book on her life, describing years of abuse. Amor van der Westhuyzen is Joey Haarhoff's daughter, the woman accused of kidnapping young girls in the late 1980's for her paedophile boyfriend Gert van Rooyen. Alet van Rensburg spoke to Van der Westhuyzen and filed this report….
The Democratic Alliance in Limpopo took its local government election campaign to Ga-Manoke outside Burgersfort. The party took time from its campaign trail to donate a wheelchair to thirty four-year-old Melvin Mgiba who has a disability. Katlego Nyoni reports...
More than three hundred people have been left homeless as the fire burnt to the ground shacks at Sea Cow Lake in Durban in KwaZulu Natal. Emergency officials say most people have suffered smoke inhalation and rushed to hospitals. The cause of the fire is still unknown. Nhlanhla Nxele reports.
The City of Tshwane says temporary shelter has been arranged for families affected by a shack fire at the Plastic View informal settlement. Hundreds of people were left homeless after the blaze that killed five residents. We are now joined on the line by City of Tshwane mayoral spokesperson Blessing Manale...
The ANC says it is confident that it will retain the Tlokwe municipality in North West. The party says the municipality has a good track record of service delivery under the ANC. Members of the ANC National Executive Committee visited churches in Potchefstroom over the weekend to garner support ahead of next month's municipal polls. Patrick Dintwa reports ...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks which have rallied for a fourth day and most commodities advanced, vote counting is scheduled to resume on Monday in a dramatic Australian federal election that failed to produce a clear winner on the weekend and South Africa's Biggest Labour Group to balance pay with Job Security
Strategist at ETF SA Nerina Visser finds the positive in Brexit, and the key emerging trends in the Stats SA released the latest Community Survey results which were released last week.
Ex-London mayor Boris Johnson has ruled himself out of the race to be the next Conservative leader and prime minister. Johnson called a press conference yesterday where many thought he would be making his pitch to lead the Tories. In his speech, Johnson said he did not believe he could provide the leadership or unity needed. It comes after Justice Secretary and fellow Brexit campaigner Michael Gove's surprise announcement that he would run for leader. We spoke to our correspondent in London Cathrine Drew
The ANC's push to increase its voter support amongst the coloured and Indian community was in full force during President Jacob Zuma's visit to the south of Johannesburg yesterday. Opposition DA and the EFF have launched massive campaigns to take control of the city, which is Africa's top financial hub. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report..
Stats SA has released the results of the Community Survey 2016. The study reflects the country's performance on education, labour markets, service delivery, poverty and access to services. Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, Jeff Radebe, received the results on behalf of the President in Pretoria. Figures from the survey indicate that the population increased by over three million people since 2011. The survey was conducted between March and April 2016 and collected from 1.3 million households across all South African communities. Stats Sa conducts a census every ten years and has an intercensal that alternates with the national census. Amina Accram reports
Competition authorities have finally given the 1-point-six trillion rand takeover of SABMiller by AB InBev the thumbs up. The merger has been widely welcomed with strict conditions attached to the deal. The Competition Tribunal approved the deal with conditions to protect the local economy. We spoke to General Secretary of FAWU, Katishi Masemola....
On the Forum@8 today we host SHOUT SA ambassadors and award-winning musicians Kabelo Mabalane and Danny K. The duo founded SHOUT for a Safer South Africa in 2007, following the murder of Lucky Dube. They continue to fight crime through their music in collaboration with other South African artists and proceeds made from the soundtracks are distributed through to various charities. This year the duo plans to launch school libraries with the aim to improve national literacy and to eradicate violence and crime in South Africa
The spectacular Durban July is just hours away and the city of Durban says it is ready to host one of the country's biggest horse-racing extravaganzas. Durban Tourism believes more than 55-thousand people will descend on the City for the star-studded event this weekend. It says it expects to generate more than 300-million rand in revenue. With fashion being synonymous with the July, designers and models will also be at the racecourse, showing off beautiful tailor-made garments. This year's theme is "Leader of the pack". Nhlanhla Nxele reports......
At least two buses have been set alight during protest action on the N2 near the Cape Town International Airport, leading to the closure of sections of the highway. It is reported that protesters aslo stoned several vehicles. By late last night it was still unclear who the protestors were. We caught up with City of Cape Town's Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith
ANC's Tshwane mayoral candidate, Thoko Didiza arrived to a tumultuous welcome in Stinkwater near Hammanskraal. Didiza accompanied by the incumbent mayor, Kgosientso Ramokgopa visited the family of Simon Modige who was gunned down outside the ANC's Branch Executive Commitee meeting at the Tshwane Events Centre two weeks ago. A suspect has since been arrested and is expected to appear in the Pretoria magistrate's court today. Freddy Sepeng reports...
As the season of initiation is upon us, a new trend has emerged whereby the owners of bogus initiation schools allegedly pay boys a fee to get them initiates. It is understood that in Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, principals of these initiation schools, offer young boys R150 for each new recruit. There are also reports that these young recruits come home addicted to drugs. Captain Keke Motsiri who is the Communications Officer at the Orange Farm Police Station, dealt with this case, and he joins us on the line to tell us more.
South Africa has recorded the highest number of political parties to contest local government elections. This was revealed by the independent electoral commission. Two hundred political parties and just over sixty one thousand candidates will be contesting the upcoming August third poll following the certification on Monday(27 June). IEC has described this achievement as a milestone. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Municipalities have increased their income by 25 and a half billion rand in the last financial year, grossing a total of 309 billion rand. This is according Financial Census of Municipalities released by Statistics South Africa today. The census uses ratios to determine the financial health of municipalities around the country. Dimakatso Leshoro reports...
Investment analyst at 27Four Investment Managers, Nadir Thokan looks at S&P's downgrading the UK's credit rating as well as the latest on Old Mutual's plan to split....
Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba has announced that the closing date for the Lesotho special permit applications has been extended by three months. The original closing date was scheduled for the end of this month. Commenting on the repeated call by a section of the Lesotho nationals inside the country that the Mountain Kingdom should become part of South Africa, Gigaba say that decision lies with the Basotho nation and its Monarchy. Neo Makwiting reports.
It's been a week since a four-year-old boy with Albinism, Manelisa Ntombela, disappeared at Mkhoboza, ESikhaleni outside eMpangeni in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The Community of Mkhoboza have marched to a local police station to express their unhappiness at the lack of progress in the search for the missing boy. His family has lost hope of finding him alive. Fanele Mhlongo reports...
There is no crisis at the SABC. This is according to the public broadcaster's board which denied reports that employees are in revolt against management. The board has also denied widespread unhappiness among staff. According to some reports, journalists have threatened a news blackout if COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng does not reverse the suspensions of three senior reporters. The suspensions were followed by the resignation of Acting CEO Jimmi Mathews yesterday. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana compiled this report...
The Justice and Constitutional Development Department says the country needs to adopt robust measures to put an end to all forms of discrimination such as racism. This comes as the department held its provincial hearings in East London as part of its National Action Plan to combat racism. The hearings are part of various engagements on the draft plan that the department and various partners are hosting countrywide. Lubabalo Dada has more
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Stocks Advancing Amid Global Rebound on Stimulus Speculation as well as Toyota recalling 1.4 million cars over faulty airbags...
The National Freedom Party has been disqualified from contesting August 3 municipal elections. KwaZulu-Natal IEC Commissioner Mawethu Mosery says the NFP failed to meet the deadline of paying the deposit. The party says they are still waiting for the decision of the Electoral Court after they approached it in connection with the challenges they encountered. We spoke to National Freedom Party's Secretary General, Professor Nhlanhla Khubisa...
There is no crisis at the SABC. This is according to the public broadcaster's board which denied reports that employees are in revolt against management. The board has also denied widespread unhappiness among staff. According to some reports, journalists have threatened a news blackout if COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng does not reverse the suspensions of three senior reporters. The suspensions were followed by the resignation of Acting CEO Jimmi Mathews yesterday. We spoke to Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee for Communications Humphrey Maxegwana...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has launched a campaign to highlight the crime surrounding the increasingly distressing dog fighting realities in South Africa. The council's Senior Inspector Wendy Wilson says it's about time that the society must turn anger into action because; dog fighting is ripping our society apart. She joins us on the line to tell us more.
Following the International Day Against Drug Abuse which highlighted the growing problem in societies worldwide, in Mpumalanga the spotlight has fallen the Lowveld area where drugs smuggled from nearby Mozambique are readily available. The small farming town of White River in Mpumalanga has two rehabilitation centres to help addicts overcome their problems.. Amanda Celliers reports.
A Sodwana bay guest house is under investigation for allegedly refusing to accept black people at its establishment. The department of Tourism has asked the South African Human Rights Commission to investigate these allegations with immediate effect, after a visitor at the guest house complained of alleged racist policies. The Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom said in a statement, racism will not be tolerated in our country and people must report any abuse of the rights. He joins us on the line to tell us more.
The Albinism Society in KwaZulu Natal says it is shocked by the alleged kidnapping of a four-year-old boy with albinism - Maneliswa Ntombela - who went missing from Mkhoboza at eSikhaleni, outside eMpangeni in northern Kwazulu Natal. The family say the little boy had been outside a local church in the company of two unknown men. Fanele Mhlongo filed this report.
The Democratic Alliance says the 7.8 million rands the treasury has determined President Jacob Zuma pay back for his Nkandla home does not absolve him for the balance of the total money spent on the project. The Constitutional Court in March directed that the Treasury determine what President Zuma must only pay for the five items built at his home that did not constitute security upgrades. The EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi says the figure is simply not enough, adding that President Zuma has a lot to answer for...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asia markets which are mostly lower this morning and British Prime Minster David Cameron to meet with other European leaders to discuss the Brexit fall-out
ANC Spokesperson Zizi Kodwa tells AM Live anchor Sakina Kamwendo that the ANC is concerned with the situation at the SABC. On the risignition of Jimi Mathews, Kodwa says Matthews cannot jump the ship and start talking about the “corrosive atmosphere” at the public broadcast.
Investment analyst at 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at the harmful effects of the flight of corporate capital in SA and the impact of Brexit in global monetary policy.
About two thousand Grade 12 learners from Vuwani, Limpopo are expected to start of their catch up programme on Monday. Schooling has been disrupted in the area for over two months as some residents protested against the area being included in a newly-demarcated municipality. Learners have been transported to various camps, where learning is expected to resume. We spoke to Limpopo department of education spokesperson Dr Naledzani Rasila...
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) says that the call by the Gender Commission to scrap Ukuhlolwa" kwe'Ntombi or virginity testing is insensitive and takes the country back to the painful apartheid years. In a statement the department says the practice should be understood for what it is and be addressed with extreme caution. This comes after the Commission for Gender Equality made a ruling that a controversial scheme offering bursary to young South African women who remain virgins is unconstitutional. We spoke to Deputy co-operative governance and traditional affairs minister Obed Bapela....
The SACP in Gauteng has suspended some of its members for allegedly taking part in the recent violence in Tshwane. In a statement, the alliance says the anarchy in Tshwane was as a result of the factionalism which dates back to 2011, as well as failure and collapse of internal organisational discipline. We spoke to the Gauteng Provincial Secretary of the SACP, Jacob Mamabolo...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at the impact of Brexit in the South african Economy and Banking sector, asia markets which are trading mixed on Monday, as traders continued to digest the U.K.'s unexpected vote to leave the European Union, the Bank of England Governor, Mark Carney says U.K. Banks Have Capital to Withstand Brexit.
Nadir Thokan Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers looks at the Impact of Brexit on South Africa, at What point do equities become a buy after the Brexit selloff and Brics countries planning to launch a ratings agency?
Two people have been confirmed dead and dozens of others arrested in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria, following a spate of lootings over the past 24 hours. Two alleged looters were killed in Mamelodi. On Sunday, an ANC member was shot and killed at the Pretoria Events Centre after it was announced that Thoko Didiza had been endorsed as the ANC's preferred mayoral candidate for the capital city. Since then at least 40 people have been arrested in the subsequent violent protests in Atteridgeville, Hammanskraal and other areas around Tshwane. We spoke with ANC Youth League Greater Tshwane Regional Chairperson, Lesego Makhubela and Executive Director at Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation, Nomfundo Mogapi....
The World Food Programme in Southern Africa has released their EL Nino situation report which speaks to the food security crisis in southern Africa. This report is based on the latest figures for the numbers of people facing hunger as a result of the El Nino. 41 million people in the SADC region set to be food insecure, with 21 million in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. We spoke to Communications Officer for Southern Africa United Nations World Food Programme, David Orr...
South African Cities are facing massive urbanisation and are still struggling to transform from the Apartheid spatial legacy. But while they've improved their financial reporting and audit findings their revenue is still inadequate for them to deliver infrastructure and services with some facing corruption and an increasing administrative burden. These are some of the findings of the State of South African Cities in the last 15-years. The report is published every five years by the South African Cities Network. Tshepo Phagane reports
The country will head to the polls in the coming weeks to elect new municipal councillors. More than 200 political parties will be contesting the elections on the third of August. While service delivery remains the main issue that's dominating the election trail, other parties are using other issues to try and win votes. Zalene Merrington looks at what issues other parties are focusing on to .....Several attempts to reach other parties, such as the EFF, were not successful.
There are renewed calls for law enforcement agencies to increase security as violent protests continue in and around the townships of Tshwane. Although calm seems to have returned to some areas, elsewhere the protests are continuing. The eruption of violent protests followed the announcement by the ANC that Thoko Didiza is the party's preferred mayoral candidate for Tshwane in the upcoming local government elections. Morafe Tabane filed this report
Investment Analyst from ETM Analytics Jana van Deventer talks about;
1) May CPI data was softer than expected yesterday and the rand strengthened to its best levels in 7 weeks
2) It is finally D-day: UK citizens will today vote on whether or not they would like to remain in the European Union. Any clarity on what the outcome might be and when are we likely to know?
Unrest was still being reported from parts of the Tshwane Metro last night. Police fired rubber bullets to prevent Mamelodi West residents from looting the Denneboom shopping mall. The residents said they were only prepared to listen to Mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa. They want him to keep his job, despite the ANC leadership not accepting him as the party's mayoral candidate for the August local government elections. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Maluti Obuseng who is in Mamelodi...
People deserted the Pretoria CBD yesterday as fears of more violence in the capital mounted. The violence erupted on Monday night over anger about the ousting of Pretoria mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa‚ who has been replaced by ANC MP Thoko Didiza as an ANC mayoral candidate for the August 3 municipal election. For more on this we caught with our reporter Morafe Tabane who is in the Pretoria CBD...
Government says it's working around the clock to contain on-going unrest in Tshwane. Tensions have been high in the capital city since Sunday following an announcement that ANC National Executive Committee member and National assembly chairperson Thoko Didiza has been selected as the Metro's mayoral candidate in the upcoming local government elections. Vehicles were torched and roads barricaded in townships such as Soshanguve, Mamelodi, Hammanskraal and Atteridgeville as well as Central Pretoria. That's despite repeated calls from regional, provincial and national leadership for calm in the area. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
The chairperson of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, says the violence and destruction of property that the country has witnessed in and around Tshwane is unacceptable and should not be allowed to continue. However, she said the South African National Defence Force would not be deployed to Tshwane to restore order. She was briefing the media on the violent protests in and around the capital yesterday. For more on this we caught up with the State Security Minister, David Mahlobo...
Market Analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela looks Asian stocks edged up ahead of the Brexit vote. the Federal Reserve cautious on rates due the EU Referendum and MTN appoints Rob Shuter as the new MTN CEO.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has downplayed fears that the ongoing violence in the Tshwane Metro could hurt South Africa's efforts to stabilise the economy and restore investor confidence. Disagreements over who should run as the ANC mayoral candidate in the capital city have led to an outbreak of violence in areas around Pretoria, particularly Atteridgeville, Mamelodi and Hammanskraal. Supporters of the incumbent mayor, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, are demanding that he be the candidate for another term, after rejecting the ANC's decision to nominate Thoko Didiza as a mayoral candidate for the capital city. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
Jana van Deventer, Investment Analyst at ETM Analytics looks at the country's discouraging economic outlook following South African Reserve Bank's Leading Indicator fell to a fresh low since 2009 and the upcoming EU Referendum continues to draw ample focus in domestic and global markets, the latest prominent figure to comment on this is the Chair of the Federal Reserve Janet Yellen
Market Analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela
- Asian stocks rose and the dollar weakened before remarks by Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen that will help shape expectations for U.S. monetary policy
- Britain's Stocks Advance Most Since February as Trading Surges
- Brexit doesn't scare Chinese homebuyers
The funeral service of Radio and Television personality, Hope Zinde, will take place at the Hellenic Hall in Hatfield, east of Pretoria this morning (tuesday 21 June). Zinde was found murdered in the boot of her car at her Pecanwood Estate home in Hartebeespoort. Her 23-year old son, Warona Mark Zinde has been arrested in connection with the murder. Zinde will be buried at the Garsfontein cemetery, east of Pretoria. Maluti Obuseng reports
Although there has been an agreement that schools in the Vuwani region of Limpopo will re-open, some parents are still reluctant to send their children to school and businesses remain closed. Teachers are still not going to school because of intimidation. Weeks of violent protests against the incorporation of the area into a new-established municipality have seen the burning of more than 20 schools. We are joined on the line by the SA Democratic Teachers Union provincial secretary Matome Raphasha.
Human Rights lawyers have applauded the Commission for Gender Equality's position on the bursaries for virgins scheme. The commission found that the decision to grant bursaries to young girls in KZN on the basis of virginity, violates the right to equality, dignity and privacy. Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR) says it expressed deep concern about the scheme as it subjected women and girls to social stigma. Sanja Bornman is an attorney in the LHR Gender Equality Programme and joins us on the line
The ANC National Executive Committee and the Gauteng provincial leadership are expected to meet with Tshwane ANC branches this in an effort to try to resolve the stand off in the city. Alleged disgruntled ANC members in the city went on a violent protests over the party's Tswane mayoral candidate, Thoko Didiza. Buses where burned and a metro police vehicle overturned and roads barricaded in and around Mamelodi. We are now joined on the line by ANC Tswane region Secretary, Teboho Jwala..
Market analyst from ETM Analytics, Jana van Deventer
1) Despite the upcoming Brexit vote, the rand, local bonds and the JSE All Share Index all staged an impressive rally into the new week and short-dated South African Government Bonds are trading at early December lows. 2) Today the SARB will release the leading indicator for April, what insights will this provide on South Africa's economic growth?
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela
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Asian stocks rallied with U.K. equities futures and the pound surged by the most since 2009 amid signs Britons are warming toward the European Union ahead of a referendum on Thursday
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International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde warned the U.K. of the risks of leaving the European Union and said there was a clear economic argument for remaining part of the bloc
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Raghuram Rajan's departure from the Reserve Bank of India could unnerve investors
Investment Analyst with ETM Analytics Jana van Deventer looks at what are the main events that could impact the markets this week and the May CPI data will be released on Wednesday - what are the inflation numbers expected to show?
The ANC has unveiled its much anticipated mayoral candidates list for major cities and what it calls strategic towns. It has brought in new names in all major metros except for Johannesburg and the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro where it retained Parks Tau and Danny Jordaan respectively and Thoko Didiza for the Tshwane metro. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to political analyst based at the University of South Africa Professor Somadoda Fikeni.
The St. Nicholas Anglican Church in Elsies River on the Cape Flats has marked the 30th anniversary of the 1986 Police Raid. Police stormed into the church and arrested 189 people for commemorating the events of June 16 in 1976. The mass arrests were remembered with a prayer and personal testimonies yesterday. Thandiswa Mawu compiled this report.
Political infighting amongst ANC members in the Madibeng region of Brits, in the North West, is to blame for the death of a SANCO leader on Saturday. This is according to ANC sub-regional convenor Lawrance Maluleka. Thabo Moroa was shot and killed at his home in Maboloka village near Brits. This is not the first incident where ANC members and leaders of the tripatiate alliance have exchanged punches and fired shots. Zebilon Maine reports
Mohammed Nalla, Head Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at US Federal Reserve on hold for now as expectations soften significantly Bank of Japan also on hold for now leading to yen strength ** Brexit remains the elephant in the room for markets
A faction of the Pan Africanist Congress led by Luthando Mbinda has threatened that there will be no local government elections without the PAC. This follows a decision by the Independent Electoral Commission that the party can not contest the elections because it had failed to comply with the requirements for its participation. We caught up with Luthando Mbinda for more details...
Patients' lives are being put at risk as exhausted junior doctors work an average of about 30 hours a day, sometimes without a break. That's according to a member of the medical profession and concerned citizen, Dr Jon Roos. He says the result is that fatigue and sleep deprivation may put the lives of patients at risk. We spoke to Dr Roos and Dr Terrence carter from the health department....
Forty years ago today, thousands of black learners revolted against the apartheid system of Bantu Education and Afrikaans as the medium of instruction. All hell broke loose when the police unleashed their dogs, tear-gas and bullets on students armed with stones, knives and fire. A week later, the official cost was over a thousand injuries, 900 arrests and 140 corpses - the first being that of teenager Hector Peterson in Soweto. He became the innocent symbol in the turning point for democracy. Twenty years later, in 1996, the former Truth and Reconciliation Commission heard testimony in Soweto about the student uprising. Angie Kapelianis was there and compiled this sound-scape with Danny Booysen.
Yesterday's Constitutional Court judgement has been widely welcomed - by the Independent Electoral Commission, goverment and political parties. The court has ruled that the IEC's failure to record all available voter addresses on the voter's roll is inconsistent with the rule of law obligations and is invalid. It has however suspended the invalidity order giving the IEC until June 2018 to furnish addresses for the voter's roll except in the case of Tlokwe where discrepencies must be corrected in time for the next by-elections. This allows the August 2016 local government elections to proceed. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe reports on reaction to the judgement..
The Pretoria High Court is set for more emotional testimony today (wednesday 15 June), when state advocate, Gerrie Nel, calls his last witness in aggravation of sentencing against Oscar Pistorius. It is understood that it will be a family member of Reeva Steenkamp. Pistorius was found guilty of killing Steenkamp on 14 February 2013 at his luxury house in an estate east of Pretoria. Liela Magnus reports
The Congress of South African Trade Union (COSATU) has met with the SACP to strengthen their relation in dealing with the issues of the workers. The national officials of the two have affirmed in their statement the need to work closer in defending their unity and to develop it further. To hear more on this, we are joined on the line by the President of Cosatu, Sdumo Dlamini.
The local government elections will go ahead on the third of August despite the Constitutional Court's ruling that the IEC did not capture the voter's addresses correctly on the voter's roll. Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng has given the Electoral Commission 18 months to get its systems in order. Previously the Electoral Court wanted that the IEC provide addresses of registered voters. To give a perspective on this, we are joined on the line by Grant Masterson- he is the Programme Manager at the Electoral Institute for the Sustainability of Democracy in Africa (EISA).
As the impasse with 301 South African firefighters who went on strike demanding better pay while battling wildfires in Fort McMurray continues, the portfolio committee on environmental affairs says the department of environmental affairs has to account in the matter. The Committee says it will be engaging with the department to fully understand what happened in Canada to prevent any similar occurrence in future. For more on this we are joined on the line by Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs, Phillemon Mapulane.
Market Analyst Clive 'ntozabantu Ramathibela
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Asian shares rose, rebounding from the steepest selloff in global stocks since January
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Emerging-Market Stock Selloff Abates as Currencies Hold Declines
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Nigeria Central Bank to Announce New Currency Policy
Yesterday's Constitutional Court judgement has been widely welcomed - by the Independent Electoral Commission, goverment and political parties. The court has ruled that the IEC's failure to record all available voter addresses on the voter's roll is inconsistent with the rule of law obligations and is invalid. It has however suspended the invalidity order giving the IEC until June 2018 to furnish addresses for the voter's roll except in the case of Tlokwe where discrepencies must be corrected in time for the next by-elections. This allows the August 2016 local government elections to proceed. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe reports on reaction to the judgement
Mohammed Nalla Head of Strategic Research at Nedbank CIB looks at South Africa current account deficit which has weakened further, Chinese stocks still excluded from MSCI index for a third time and what to expect from SA retails sales data today and the Fed after SA close
We now get the latest developments on the National Health Insurance (NHI) process. The NHI was introduced as a system that aims to unite public and private healthcare resources to ensure that everyone living in the country has access to the same standard of health care. Government's White Paper on NHI proposes a single, compulsory medical scheme for all. Critics though have pointed out that the NHI system would not work. John Kane-Berman a policy fellow at the South African Institute of Race Relations recently wrote that the system is not sustainable. We are now joined on the line by Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi.
Despite government's interventions reports are that teaching has not resumed at Vuwani in Limpopo. About two thousand Grade 12 leaners have already missed their midyear examinations. In the wake of this the South African Human Rights Commission is hosting a three day hearings on the impact that protests have on education. The hearings will bring together different organs of state and civil society to assist the commission to ensure that the right to learning is not violated. For more on this we caught up with both to Elijia Mhlanga, whos is the department's spokesperson and by the Head of Advocacy & Communications at the SAHRC, Gail Smith.
Twenty-one-year-old Henri van Breda is expected to appear in the Stellenbosch Magistrates Court today in connection with the murders of three members of the Van Breda family more than a year ago. Van Breda handed himself over to police earlier. Our reporter Jacques Steenkamp was in studio for further details
Youth Centres across the country play an important role in the rehabilitation of young street children. It is often the need to escape from poor circumstances at home, that drove them onto the streets in the first place. As the country commemorates Youth Month, Port Elizabeth is home to a youth centre where boys aged between six and 18 are placed by the court. Veronica Fourie paid a visit to the Khayalethu Youth Centre
A representative of a charity organization will today testify on behalf of the convicted Paralympian, Oscar Pistorius. The testimony will be Pistorius' last bid to convince the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years for murder. Pistorius is back in the Pretoria High Court after the Supreme Court of Appeal overturned his culpable homicide conviction last year, finding him guilty of murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013. Phanuel Shuma reports
Twenty-one-year-old Henri van Breda is expected to appear in the Stellenbosch Magistrates Court today in connection with the murders of three members of the Van Breda family more than a year ago. Van Breda handed himself over to police earlier. Thandi Mawu reports
The son of former SABC news anchor and board member Hope Zinde, has been formally charged with her murder and possession of drugs. Mark Warona Zinde appeared briefly in the Brits Magistrate's Court in the North West yesterday. He was arrested at the weekend following the discovery of her mother's body in a car boot at her Pecanwood Estate home in Haartebeespoort, west of Pretoria..Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
Objectives: _- To understand what the youth of 1976 stood and fought for? -To establish what the youth of today are fighting for?
Guest: Ntombizikhona Valela is doing her MA on the intellectual work and value of Winnie Mandela. She is framing Mandela as a vernacular intellectual
Guest: Mikaela Erskog is doing her MA on some of the most influential Pan African figures such as Miriam Tlali, Bessie Head and Noni Jabavu
Guest: Prof Teffo Letsiba - He is attached with UNISA
Should South Africa re-evaluate its current electoral system of proportional representation at national and provincial level? And if it were to be changed, what should take its place? These are some of the questions raised at an event organised by the Progressive Professionals Forum in Cape Town last Thursday. The forum invited the Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, John Jeffery, to speak on the topic of whether the current electoral system is still relevant. Joseph Mosia reports.
Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa has dispatched a mediator to Canada to help resolve pay dispute between firefighting agency- Working on Fire and the South African firefighters. Trevor Abrahams is sent as mediator to Canada after the three hundrend and one firefighters downed tools demanding that their payment be increased and that they be compensated in accordance with Canadian labour laws. The group left South Africa at the end of May to assist in bringing under control massive fire outbreaks that have engulfed Canada's Aberta province. The wage dispute has forced the Canadian government to order striking firefighters to leave that country. For more on this we are now joined on the line by Albi Modise, Who is the Head of Communications at the Department of Environmental Affairs
Arguments for aggravation and mitigation of sentencing in the Oscar Pistorius trial will begin this morning in the Pretoria High Court. Last year, the Supreme Court of Appeal overturned the High Court's ruling of culpable homicide - finding the former Paralympian guilty of murder. Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp at his Pretoria home in February 2013. He was also found guilty of the negligent discharge of a firearm and acquitted on two other gun-related charges. Noma Bolani compiled this report outlining expectations for the sentence hearing..
IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi has called on supporters not vote for party members contesting the elections as independent candidates. He was speaking at the party's election manifesto launch at the King Zwelithini stadium at Umlazi, south of Durban Yesterday. The IFP has committed itself to accelerating service delivery including water, sanitation and electricity. Meanwhile, party candidates signed a pledge committing themselves to clean governance. Skhangiwe Mthiyane report
The Congress of South African Trade Unions has given Mpumalanga's Lily Gold Mine management three days to recover the bodies of three mine workers. In February, the three workers were trapped underground when the container they wee working in, collapsed into a sinkhole. Recovery operations remain suspended at the mine, until it is safe to continue. The union marched to the mine to hand over a list of grievances to management. Motsebi wa Monareng reports
Messages of condolence have been pouring in for the late radio and television presenter, Hope Zinde. Zinde was found murdered in the boot of her car at her home in the Pecanwood Estate in Hartebeespoort in the North West on Saturday. It is believed that she was murdered last Monday. A suspect -believed to be her son - has been charged with her murder. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
President Jacob Zuma has called for an end of politically motivated killings and violence in Kwa Zulu-Natal. The President was delivering a keynote address at the launch of the ANC's provincial local government election manifesto in Pietermaritzburg yesterday. The province has experienced a wave of killings of high profile politicians due to disputes arising from the finalisation of candidate lists of those who will contest the August 3rd municipal polls. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has compiled this report.
South African music legend Ray Phiri says SABC's 90% local music across all its 18 radio is a good start.
Speaking to AM Live on SAfm anchor Sakina Kamwendo during the ForumAt8, Phiri says groups like Stimela, Harare, Bayethe, Sakhile and many others, were beneficiaries of the cultural boycott in South Africa under the apartheid government which forced them to produce music that was marketable internationally.
In an effort to reduce the crime rate in the country, police will now release crime statistics on a quarterly basis. This is in addition to the annual figures. That's according to the Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe. He says the decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Johan Burger, from the Institute for Security Studies' Crime and Justice Programme.
Cabinet has distanced itself from a joint media statement by the Department of International Relations and the State Security Agency on the United States' terror alerts. The two key departments released a statement slamming the US saying the information on which the alerts were based was sketchy, and unsubstantiated and that their actions are a cause for serious concern to the South African government. The US Embassy issued a terror alert last weekend that terrorist groups were planning to attack malls in Johannesburg and Cape Town during Ramadan. This was followed by the UK and Australia issuing similar advisories. Briefing the media on the outcomes of Wednesday's (08/09) cabinet meeting, Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe, emphasized that South Africa and the US will continue to co-operate on security issues and that relations between the two remain cordial. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Unions federation COSATU says it will embark on a protest to force the mine to re-open search for the three mine workers still trapped underground. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to COSATU Mpumalanga's Provincial Secretary, Fidel Mlombo.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela
TALKING POINTS
- A weeklong rally in global stocks has ended as investors review the outlook for global economic growth?
- Naspers, which is Africa's biggest company by market value, is planning to sell its Polish online auction website Allegro
- Disney is launching a Shanghai Disneyland, there could be some cultural faux pas there
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at a new joint action is underway to arrest the devastating decline of the South African mining industry, fuel cell development is bursting out all over the country and petrochemicals giant Sasol is investing R20-billion in neighbouring Mozambique to find more natural gas.
We have had requests from some listeners wanting to know what progress has been made at the Lily mine in Barberton in Mpumalanga. The latest reports indicate that the mine has received an investment of hundred and seventy one million rand from AfriCan Resources Gold Limited, which was to help with its reopening. Lily Gold mine was placed under business rescue, following a shaft collapse in early February. Three workers have been trapped in a container underground ever since. Lily Mine's Business Rescue Practitioner, Rob Devereux however says, the mine still needs more money to start operating. He joins us on the line to tell us more.
In an effort to reduce the crime rate in the country, police will now release crime statistics on a quarterly basis. This is in addition to the annual figures. That's according to the Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe. He says the decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Johan Burger, from the Institute for Security Studies' Crime and Justice Programme.
Boxing legend Muhammad Ali will be buried in the US state of Kentucky later today. Since his death last Saturday the world has been paying tribute to the man who managed to transcend the sport of boxing. He influenced and inspired people world-wide with his caring and funny nature. One place he touched was a boxing gym in New York, which he regularly visited and trained at. Our US Correspondent Nick Harper has been along to meet those who knew him. He filed this report
The recent registration of ANC members as independent candidates for the forth-coming elections in North-West is posing problems for the ruling party. These include incumbent councillors and high-profile candidates whose names still appear on the candidate list of the governing party. The majority have registered with the IEC under the new Forum 4 Service Delivery. This is after some of them were reportedly left off the ANC list despite being the favourite candidates in their communities. Patrick Dintwa reports
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers
Let's talk about Investment case for Barclays group Africa What is the outlook for global earnings growth moving forward?
Leaders of the Durban Christian Centre - also known as the Jesus Dome - say they are still waiting for the authorities to tell them what caused the fire that destroyed the church last night. Forensic investigators are trying to piece together details of the blaze. Fanele Mhlongo filed this report.....
Millions of adolescent girls who face child marriage will soon be protected by the new Law on Eradicating Child Marriage and Protecting Children Already in Marriage. This follows an adoption of this new model law Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC-PF). Following the adoption of the model law in Swaziland, member states are now expected to match their local laws with that of the African Union Campaign to End Child Marriage. To tell us more we are joined on the line by Nyasha Chingore -Munazvo, who is a Lawyer, Sexual and Reproductive Rights Programme at the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC).
Parliament says it is in the process of getting new uniforms for its parliamentary protection services. It expects the new uniforms to be worn as soon as parliament resumes after the August local elections. Spokesperson Luzuko Jacobs says this forms part of an investigation into possible security breaches last month when EEF MPs clashed with parliamentary security personnel during President Jacob Zuma's oral reply in the National Assembly. It was alleged later that EFF leader Julius Malema's bodyguards infiltrated the protection services and managed to enter the National Assembly chambers. Abongwe Kobokana reports.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) group of countries is signing off on an economic partnership agreement with the European Union. The deal will amalgamate South Africa's free trade agreement with the EU which has stood for over 15 years. Our Europe correspondent Jack Parrock has more.
THE Independent Electoral Commission has flagged violence as a major concern ahead of the local government elections. At today's lucky draw for the first position on the ballot, the IEC vice-chairperson Terry Tselane reminded political parties that they must lead in ensuring that the political process towards and during election is free and fair. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana filed this report...
South Africa needs to promote an environment conducive for local and foreign investors, while ensuring there is no capture of state institutions or different corporations. This is according to the Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan who was addressing delegates at the Gauteng Economic Indaba currently underway in Johannesburg. Gordhan says for higher growth to be achieved, South African has to be passionate about getting the economy out of the doldrums. Morafe Tabane reports.
Economic Freedom Fighters Deputy President, Floyd Shivambu, says his party will focus on building health care centres and government run creches for each municipal ward. He says this will not only improve service delivery but also create job opportunities. Shivambu was addressing hundreds of Zamdela residents in Sasolburg in the northern Free State as part of the EFF's municipal election campaign. Zamdela residents have in recent years sparked violent protests over poor service delivery and corruption in Metsimaholo Municipality. Noma Bolani reports...
The IFP hopes to fill the King Zwelithini Stadium this weekend when it launches its election manifesto. Party leadership led by iNkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi will deliver the party's election promises while also taking stock of the party's performance in the 2011 municipal elections. Then, the IFP retained only two municipalities - Ulundi and Umsinga. But during by-elections that followed, the party managed to reclaim municipalities such as Nkandla, Hlabisa and Ntambanana. The IFP's Head of Election Campaign Narend Singh believes the party is better positioned to change things around and do well in the upcoming elections.
Tributes are pouring in following the death of Stephen Keshi, the former coach of the Nigerian national soccer team, the Super Eagles. The family of Keshi and the Nigerian Football Association say the 54-year-old soccer icon died of cardic arrest early this morning. Keshi was recently linked to local team, Orlando Pirates. Hasiya Suleiman is the director of news at the Voice of Nigeria...
The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) has dismissed claims that they are not planning to take part in a meeting between the management of Northam mine in Limpopo, the NUM, and the Police. The President of AMCU Joseph Mathunjwa says instead, the police in Polokwane stood them up after postponing a meeting from Monday which was meant to resolve the situation at the mine. This follows violent clashes that broke out during the weekend after one mine worker was killed and another critically injured. To get an update on this, we spoke to AMCU President, Joseph Mathunjwa.
The South African Police Service is on a recruitment drive to get former members to re-enlist. SAPS spokesperson, Vishnu Naidoo, says this is a follow up to last year's recruitment drive, in which only slightly more than 500 applicants were successful out of about 3-thousand. Naidoo says the police force has more than 600 vacant posts.
There has been an outbreak of rabies in Gauteng. Two people are reported to have been exposed to the viral disease, but received treatment. Areas that are affected so far are Muldersdrift, Kromdraai and Lanseria, north-west of Johannesburg. The Deputy Director of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Professor Lucille Blumberg joined us for more details on this story.
The South African Communist Party and its alliance partner the African National Congress, have finally met to iron out their political differences. The two organisations have been at loggerheads over a number of issues, including the Gupta family's dealings with the state. The SACP second Deputy Secretary General, Solly Mapaila, has the details...
Deputy Minister for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Obed Bapela, says government is drafting a bill that will deal harshly with those involved in running illegal circumcision schools. This emerged at a launch of the circumcision winter season in Bhisho in the Eastern Cape. Bapela says this is one of government's initiatives to put an end to the commercialisation of this ritual and curb deaths of initiates. About 29 initiates died in the Eastern Cape during the same period last year. Lubabalo Dada has more
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks which fell as Chinese trade data showed exports from the world's biggest trading nation dropped. Volkswagen opens talks with unions on how to cut costs without eliminating jobs as the German carmaker grapples with rapid technological change and billions of euros in damages from cheating on diesel-emissions tests and China imported nearly a billion tonnes of iron ore over the past year.
Nerina Vissar, Strategist and Advisor at ETFSA looks at the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Business Confidence Index for May which was released yesterday and South Africa’s economy has had some body blows in recent times
The South African Broadcasting Cooperation's Chief Operations Officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng says the cooperation stands by it's decision not to show people burning property on news bulletins. Motsoeneng was part of a panel of discussion, hosted by the National Press Club in Pretoria, to debate SABC's decision not to show footage of people destroying or burning public property. SABC issued a statememnt last month indicating that it has made a decision that it will not show footage of people burning public institutions. Maluti Obuseng reports
Mining operations at the Northam Platinum Mine in Limpopo have been halted. This follows the murder of a member of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) at the weekend. NUM blames members of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) for the incident. The situation is tense and police have been deployed. For the latest on this, we spoke to the Chief Executive Officer of Northam Platinum Mine, Paul Dunne.
Top water experts from Israel are in South Africa to share their successes in overcoming the Middle Eastern country's recent chronic water shortages. The IsraelSA Water week comes at the time when South Africa has been experiencing its worst drought in decades. Professor Eilon Adar a Hydrologist and one of Israel's leading researchers in water sources, use and technology, will be one of the participants. We caught up with him for more on this story...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks, US Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen speech boosts global stocks and Saudi Arabia to Reduce Public-Sector Wages in Post-Oil Plan.
Violent clashes have erupted between mine-workers affiliated to rival unions AMCU and NUM at Northam Platinum Mine in Limpopo. Two mine-workers, reportedly affiliated to the rival two unions, were killed during the confrontations. At least two vehicles belonging to fighting mine-workers were also set alight. Lucas Mothibedi reports
About thirty political parties in the North West have registered with the Independent Electoral Commission, to contest the August 3rd municipal elections. The electoral commission says of these, fifteen are newcomers. Independents from across the province have also registered ninety candidates in all four districts. Political commentators and observers believe the coming elections will be highly contested. Patrick Dintwa reports
Refuse removal entity Pik-it-up has been dragged into the local government elections campaigns with the DA proposing its dissolution. City of Johannesburg Mayoral candidate Herman Mashaba says if he wins the elections, he would privatise the entity which has been going through a hard time in the last few years. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist and Adviser at ETF SA looks at the Sasol share price was down more than 10% what caused the sharp drop and the Rand strengthened to below R15 to the dollar.
The reshuffle of the KwaZulu-Natal cabinet by the newly-appointed Premier, Willies Mchunu, has been met with mixed feelings from unions and opposition parties. The ANC announced a shake-up of the cabinet two weeks after Willies Mchunu replaced Senzo Mchunu as Premier. The party dropped Education MEC Peggy Nkonyeni, Sports MEC Ntombikayise Sibhidla-Saphetha, Agriculture's Cyril Xaba and Economic Development MEC Mike Mabuyakhulu. Mbuso Mkhize report.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at the robust Asian markets and Chinese retail investors finding it harder to bargain in the new equity market
ANC National Chairperson Baleka Mbete has endorsed the party's decision of replacing former KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu with Willies Mchunu. She was alongside provincial ANC chairperson Sihle Zikalala on a fact-finding campaign at Hopewell, near Richmond, in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands. Mchunu resigned as premier two weeks ago following a directive from the ANC National Working Committee. Mbete says they deployed Willies Mchunu to fast track service delivery in the province. She says any provincial cabinet reshuffle is part of ANC processes. Nhlanhla Nxele reports.......
Finance Minister, Pravin Gordhan, says South Africans should stop making negative comments to improve confidence in the country. He was reacting to a decision by S&P Global Ratings to keep South Africa's credit rating unchanged. S&P maintained the negative outlook on the rating‚ citing concerns about economic growth and warned it could lower the rating by year-end or next year if policy measures do not turn the economy around. Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan joined us for more this...
The ANC in Gauteng has hailed the staging of a rally to mark the launch of its local government election manifesto as a major success. About 85-thousand party's rank and file filled the FNB stadium in SOWETO on what is viewed as the show of force by the ruling party ahead of the August 3rd local government elections. Gauteng is expected to be hotly contested terrain as the opposition DA and the EFF intensify the campaign to take control of the country's economic powerhouse. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports..
The EFF has promised to change the status quo at the whites-only town of Orania, in the Northern Cape, should they win the local government polls at Thembelihle Municipality. Mayor of the municipality, Danny Jonas, who is an EFF candidate, says the whites-only enclave might cease to exist after the elections. Mpho Lepedi compiled this report.
Police minister Nkosinathi Nhleko has expressed his serious concern at the rising number of political killings. The minister has set up task team has to investigate the killings. Recently a number of political leaders have been killed especially in KwaZulu-Natal. We caught up with the police minister for more on this...
Nerina Visser, Strategist & Advisor at ETFSA looks at S&P decision not to downgraded South Africa’s sovereign rating, continued concerns about the lack of domestic economic growth and questions about the future of the State-Owned Enterprises.
The ANC in Gauteng has hailed the staging of a rally to mark the launch of its local government election manifesto as a major success. About 85-thousand party's rank and file filled the FNB stadium in SOWETO on what is viewed as the show of force by the ruling party ahead of the August 3rd local government elections. Gauteng is expected to be hotly contested terrain as the opposition DA and the EFF intensify the campaign to take control of the country's economic powerhouse. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
As the world mourns the death of Muhammad Ali, Harry Horton takes a look at his influence outside of sport, and how, even after his death, he continues to shape attitudes and opinions in America and beyond. Harry Horton, reports
There are reports of uprisings across the country over ANC candidate lists for the local government elections. ANC members from different branches in Gauteng are reported to have gone to Luthuli House to protest, while others from Ekurhuleni are reported to have marched to Walter Sisulu House. The ruling party was expected to submit the names of its candidates Councillors to the IEC yesterday. We caught up with the ANC National Spokesperson Zizi Kodwa for more on this...
Former football players, coaches, officials and fans paid a fitting farewell to the late former Bafana Bafana coach, Ted Dumitru, at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg. The Romanian born coach had a coaching career spanning three decades in the country and was actively involved in development at the time of his passing. His memorial service was attended by amongst others Kaizer Chiefs chairman, Kaizer Motaung, and minister of sport and recreation, Fikile Mbalula. Percy Nkatlo filed this report...
Ratings agency Standard and Poors is today expected to announce whether South Africa will be downgraded to junk status or not. The agency has placed the country's economy two notches beyond junk status. economists are waiting with bated breath the outcome of Standard and Poors announcement. We spoke to FNB economist, Chris Gilmore for more on this...
A general household survey released by Stats SA yesterday reveals that almost a third of the population is now relying on social grants. There's been a steady increase from 12 point 7 percent of the population in 2013 to 30 point 1 percent in 2015. The percentage of learners who reported that they were exempted from paying tuition fees climbed by more than 60-percent. Tshepo Mongoai reports...
SACP general secretary Blade Nzimande has challenged NUM leaders to take up the battle against the Gupta family's influence on the ANC - describing it as toxic. Nzimande was addressing the union's Central Committee meeting. He says exposing the Gupta family's influence should not be viewed as an attack on President Jacob Zuma. He called on NUM to stand up for the movement. This is despite the ANC closing its investigation on state capture. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
Most Asian equities rose and the Japanese yen held near a three-week high before U.S. job dat is released, emerging-market stocks headed for its highest close and Financial Technology the evolution of the financial services sector.
Investment Analyst from 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan talks about what to expect from ratings agency S&P's and the expected US jobs numbers coming out today.
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) says plans for a taxi strike are going ahead. This comes after a talks between SANTACO and the Gauteng Provincial Government failed to materialised yesterday. The meeting was aimed at tackling a number of issues that were affecting the taxi industry in the country. We caught up with the Secretary General of SANTACO Gauteng, Ralph Jones for more on this...
The Parliament Ad Hoc committee set up to find the new Public Protector says it will publish the names of those nominated or applying for the position. Earlier this week, public participation in the process was extended to allow comments and objections on candidates that have been shortlisted. Advertisements for the position will be out by this weekend and the nomination process will run for the next three weeks. For more on this we caught up with the Committee Chairperson, Dr Makhosi Khoza...
The Justice Department has interacted with learners from various high schools in the Durban's Umlazi district. Among the topics discussed were cyber-bullying and sexting - (sending sexually-explicit photographs or messages on a mobile phone). It comes as the country marks Child Protection Week and International Children's Day. Cassandra Zungu reports...
A new fossil estimated to be 360 million years old , has been discovered on the N2 between Grahamstown and Peddie in the Eastern Cape. The fossil was discovered during blasting for upgrading a portion of the N2. The rocks containing ancient fossils were discovered by Rhodes University Palaeontologist Dr Robert Gess, who was working on site as a consultant. Nomthandazo Setokoe reports
As we mark Child Protection Week, a study by the University of Cape Town has revealed that one in three South African children are likely to have been sexually abused by the age of 17. The study, which was commissioned by the UBS Optimus Foundation and conducted by the University of Cape Town, is the first national study of child maltreatment in the country. Earlier we spoke to the researcher at Center for Justice and Crime Prevention, Lezanne Leoschut
President Jacob Zuma says government is working hard to ensure that the abuse of children is eliminated in society. He was addressing the International Children's Day at Atteridgeville in Tshwane yesterday(Wednesday). The day is observed annually on the 1st of June around the world to honour children's rights as per the proclamation of the 1925 World Conference for the Well-being of Children in Geneva, Switzerland. President Zuma says since 1994 government has introduce a number of programmes and policies in a bid to ensure the well-being of children. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Market Analyst by Clive Ramathibela looks at the Asian markets, Greece is close to an accord with creditor institutions on measures needed to get its next bailout tranche and Uber said on Wednesday that it had raised $3.5 billion from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which is the kingdom's main investment fund.
SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng says despite wide-spread criticism, the public broadcaster remains firm in its decision not to air footage of people destroying public property during protests. He was addressing the leadership of teacher union Sadtu in Benoni in Ekurhuleni. Motsoeneng says the SABC's decision to play 90-percent local music is part of a broader plan to restore national pride. He had been invited to address the Sadtu meeting on various issues including transformation and the role of the SABC in informing the public about the progress the country is making. Wisani Makhubele was there
The Justice Department has interacted with learners from various high schools in the Durban's Umlazi district. Among the topics discussed were cyber-bullying and sexting, which is sending sexually-explicit photographs or messages on a mobile phone. It comes as the country marks Child Protection Week and International Children's Day. Cassandra Zungu reports...
The SACP says the ANC National Executive Committee has been captured by a faction of the party. This comes after the NEC closed its inquiry into alleged state capture by the Gupta family. Following its meeting this past weekend, the NEC says only one person was willing to substantiate claims that the family offered them cabinet posts and tried to manipulate government business in their favour. The SACP has slammed the NEC's investigation as a white wash. It has also made new revelations that the tripartite alliance members knew of the election date before it was announced by President Jacob Zuma after Atul Gupta told them. Deputy Political editor Mahlatse Gallens has more
A new fossil estimated to be 360 million years old , has been discovered on the N2 between Grahamstown and Peddie in the Eastern Cape. The fossil was discovered during blasting for upgrading a portion of the N2. The rocks containing ancient fossils were discovered by Rhodes University Palaeontologist Dr Robert Gess, who was working on site as a consultant. Nomthandazo Setokoe reports
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst 27Fourr Investment Managers looks at the increase in the price of petrol and the impact on inflation, China manufacturing PMI and what's driving the need for earnings growth in global equities.
With Zimbabwe's elections just two years away, five smaller opposition parties have formed a coalition. The Coalition of Democrats or CODE will work together to try to unseat long serving president President Robert Mugabe. The group says its ready to work with any progressive political party that is unhappy with the state of the country and opposed to the current government. The main opposition parties led by Morgan Tsvangirai and People first's Joice Mujuru have indicated they are not ready to join the group. Code chair, Gilbert Dzikiti....
Employees of the Gupta-owned business empire have vowed to continue their services despite the likelihood of not receiving their salaries in June. Yesterday was D-Day for the Gupta- owned Oakbay business empire to make alternative arrangements following the decision by four major banks to cut all their ties with the controversial family. Oakbay has warned that the move poses a threat to the the existence of the multi- billion rand company. Tshepo Mongoai reports....
A new drug trend called Sizzurp, or purple drink is making the rounds in schools in Cape Town's southern suburbs. Parents are warned to take note of the homemade drug, which is a mix of codeine-based prescription cough syrup and cool drinks.It produces a feeling of euphoria. To discuss this further we earlier had a chat with Roger Wyman from the Central Alcohol and Drug Centre.
Modern slavery is reported to be rife in South Africa. The Global Slavery Index says there are about 250-thousand people who are subjected to commercial sexual exploitation, forced marriage and forced labour in the country. The Index also noted that South African women have been trafficked abroad, mainly to Europe. South Africa ranks 27th on the Index with Trinidad and Tobago. For a reaction to the report, we're joined on the line by Anelize Theunissen from the National Freedom Network.
Trade Union Solidarity has threatened to take the Minister of Sport Minister Fikile Mbalula to the labour court over the quotas in sport. The Deputy Chief Executive of Solidarity Johan Kruger says the banning of sporting codes because of racial quotas amounts to unfair labour practice. We caught up with him for more on this story...
Market Analyst Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian markers which struggled on mixed data and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is expected to sales tax rise by two and a half years.
Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at what might happen after Standards & Poor's decision on South Africa’s rating, NO end in sight for the turmoil at PPC, any end in sight and the return of bullish sentiment to Naspers.
South Africa's municipal financing model and its rural development systems need to push rural municipalities to accumulate sources of their own revenue more than ever before. That's the word from the Financial and Fiscal Commission chair and Chief Executive Officer, Bongani Khumalo. According to the commission, sluggish economic growth, a weak currency, the effects of the drought and stubbornly high unemployment are reasons economically active rural communities are needed to guide SA out of its economic quandary. We caught up with Mr Khumalo the model the commission would prefer ....
Schooling remains suspended in Vuwani as residents still opposed to be included into a new municipality in the Vhembe region. This is despite countless meetings led by the inter-ministerial task team to stabilise the situation. A panel of mediators was nominated by the inter- ministerial committee to look into the situation and Vuwani and find solutions. We spoke to Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa who is leading the process of mediation and says they will be engaging with different stakeholders to find solutions...
Residents of Sizanani informal settlement in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga have warned government officials to immediately attend to their demands of better services in their area. They are threatening not to go to the polls come this year's Local Government Elections in August should the Emhlalahleni Local Municipality not provide them with electricity, clean drinkable water and proper road infrastructure. They took to the streets demanding attention from the municipality. Abongile Dumako reports...
Mineworkers Union AMCU- has suspended its strike at Sibanye Platinum Mine formerly known as Aquarius in Kroondal near Rustenburg in the North West. The mine obtained a court interdict preventing the workers from continuing with the strike. Mineworkers downed tools last week Friday demanding the mine provides them with transport, as they were being attacked after working night shift. Zebilon Maine reports ...
The KwaZulu-Natal Social Development Department has urged parents to be cautious and be on the look out for any behavioural changes in their children. This follows the discovery of a drug lab at Chatsworth south of Durban where drugs were produced that look similar to jelly babies sweets. It is suspected that these new drugs are aimed at primary school learners. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets in the positive, the JSE up despite losses in gold mines and financials and emerging market dream story may be over.
Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan talks about the unbundling of Bidvest food services and the Eurozone Economic Confidence has strengthened
The KwaZulu-Natal Social Development Department has urged parents to be cautious and be on the look out for any behavioural changes in their children. This follows the discovery of a drug lab at Chatsworth south of Durban where drugs were produced that look similar to jelly babies sweets. It is suspected that these new drugs are aimed at primary school learners. Nonkululeko Hlophe report
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks whats happening in the Asian Markets and the yoan ¥ is hurting the Chinese economy
Investment Analyst from 27Four Investments Nadir Token looks at the impact on Gold prices of the of the US interest rates moves, the substantial 100-US dollar outflow from equity funds this year and talks about at Truworths investment?
The Presidency has denies reports that President Jacob Zuma refused to his jet Inkwazi. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo on AMLive, the spokesperson for the President Dr Bongani Ngqulunga said Zuma had been invited to officiate at a Toyota event in Durban. He said requested the Department of Defence to provide him with a reliable aircraft.
Government has embarked on the annual Child Protection Week campaign which began yesterday and will continue until June the fifth. This year's theme is "Let Us All Protect Children To Move South Africa Forward". The campaign was launched at Braakspruit Farm, outside Klerksdorp in the North West Province. Issues of child labour and exploitation are common on farms. To chat to us about this, we spoke to the DDG of well fare services at the the department of Soial Development, Connie Nxumalo
The Democratic Alliance says it will go ahead with its plans to lodge a complaint with the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (icasa), stating that the SABC has allegedly refused to air its election advertisement. In a statement,the DA says the SABC had informed the party that it had no available slots for political advertisements. The DA said the SABC blamed its refusal to air its adverts on delays in the IEC's work with respect to the elections. Earlier we spoke to DA Leader Mmusi Maimane and SABC's spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago...
Earlier the trade union AMCU has vowed to continue with its strike at the Sibanye Platinum mine, despite the company's issuing of a court order declaring the strike unprotected, but has since suspended it. The biggest union in South Africa's platinum industry embarked on the strike at the mine last month. It's demanding transport and safety allowances as well as bonuses. Earlier we caught up with AMCU president, Joseph Mathunjwa..
Sentencing proceedings are set to get under way today in the Western Cape High Court in the case of the woman convicted of kidnapping Zephany Nurse 19 years ago. The 51-year-old woman from Lavender Hill on the Cape Flats was found guilty on three charges - kidnapping, fraud and contravening sections of the Childre ns Act. Zephany was kidnapped from Groote Schuur hospital when she was three-days-old. She is expected to testify in aggravation of sentence, when the State puts its case forward. Berenice Moss reports
The Central Energy Fund says South Africa still has access to 90 days worth of crude oil reserves. This follows media reports suggesting that the country's strategic reserves have been drained to three hundred thousand barrels, enough for less than one day. The reports allege that the Central Energy Fund, the guardian of SA's strategic crude oil stocks, sold ten million barrels of crude without obtaining permission from the Treasury. We are now joined on the line by Tseliso Maqubela who is Energy Department Deputy Director- General responsible for Petroleum Regulation and Central Energy Fund board member
Jana van Deventer Market Analyst at ETM looks at how South Africa’s strategic fuel fund secretly sold off a staggering 10 million barrels of crude back in December, South Africa’s credit rating and the risk of sub-investment grade (or junk status) is a hot topic right now.
The South African Revenue Service has identified roughly 1,700 local citizens whose names appear in the offshore records contained in the Panama Papers. The executive of the revenue service's product oversight, legal and policy division, Vlok Symington, told Parliament the roles of those identified vary from shareholders, directors, beneficiaries. Here is what he had to say...
Eskom says it will not waive the electricity debt of the residents of Soweto, but it will only freeze the interest. This follows media reports that Eskom plans to waive the residents' debt on condition they convert to prepaid meters. The National Spokesperson of Eskom Khulu Phasiwe says reports are not true, as the only thing that Eskom is considering is to freeze the interest charged on the debt. We earlier caught up with both Eskom's spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe and the Chairperson of the Soweto Electricity Crisis Committee, Jacob Kganedi....
A study conducted by Stellenbosch University has revealed that over 50% of Grade 4 learners in South Africa do not understand what they read‚ while almost 30% are illiterate. Titled "Laying Firm Foundations: Getting Reading Right", the research investigated the causes of weak student performance in literacy and numeracy in the Foundation Phases. The study aslo focused on overcrowded classrooms, with the Eastern Cape and Limpopo coming up as two provinces that have more than 60 learners in classrooms between Grades 1 and 4. For more on this we are joined on the line by Dr Nick Spaull who is a research fellow at the University of Johannesburg and the University of Cape Town
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks and Japan and China's millennials will work themselves death
More than one hundred bank accounts have been frozen by the South African Reserve Bank on suspicion of being illicit financial transactions. This was revealed by the South African Reserve Bank during a meeting of the joint sitting of three parliamentary committees. Lulama Matya reports.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has rejected claims that the ANC is buying votes with food parcels through the Social Development Department's relief programme. Ramaphosa spoke during his oral reply session in the National Assembly. Our parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Jana van Deventer Market Analyst at ETM Analytics talks about the Lewis Group which released its earnings results showing a 26.5% drop in profits, SA consumers under more pressure and a possible fuel hike on the cards.
Residents of Kgakala township near Leeudooringstaad in the North West are battling with high unemployment rates. This was key on a list of demands residents raised during their march against the Maqwassie Hills Municipality. The protest march turned violent and resulted in the arrest of nineteen people, after they looted shops belonging to foreign nationals. Mmaserole Molefe and Dyaell Gaetsewe compiled this report
The department of environmental affairs says it is studying the Supreme Court of Appeals' ruling which legalises domestic rhino horn trade, dismissing the department's bid to keep a ban on domestic trade in place. Thousands of South African rhinos have been slain in recent years to meet demand for the horn in Asian countries. To look into the implications of the judgment we are joined on the line by Pelham Jones, he is the chairman of South Africa's Private Rhino Owners Association (PROA) AND Julian Rademeyer, the author of "Killing for Profit," a book about the rhino trade
The Higher Education Minister says the country's University system is largely functional and blamed fringe element for protests and violence on campuses that he believes could be linked to a broader political agenda. Speaking exclusively to SABC News in New York on the sidelines of a series of meetings with North American universities and foundations, Dr Blade Nzimande urged law enforcement assisted by a majority of students and communities to isolate and deal with those intent on creating chaos on campuses. The Minister also rejected criticism of the timing of his US trip. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The community of Skampaneng in Hammanskraal north of Pretoria is expected to meet with government officials today to resolve the violence. Community members have been protesting the demolition of their shacks by the Red Ants. Two people have been killed and three busses torched. One of the community members, David Sebothoma, says the Themba Police Station Commander met with them yesterday and promised that representatives from government will meet them this morning at nine. He joins us on the line to tell us more.
African unity is under the spotlight today (wednesday 25 May) as the continent celebrates 53 years since the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU). A myriad of events are expected across the continent to commemorate Africa Day which represents the vision of the continent's founding fathers after having gained independence from their colonial masters. For some, it is a time for reflection about the achievements and challenges which still face Africans with the focus being on ways to deepen integration amongst themselves. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe reports...
Life in most parts of Vuwani in Limpopo where schools have been torched is yet to return to normal. Learners who are still not back at school find different ways of passing the time. Teachers in volatile areas such as Masokona and Vyeboom have not returned to work, after receiving threats. This is despite the delivery of mobile classrooms to their schools. Katlego Nyoni visited the area and compiled this report
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks rebounded from a seven-week low, The Indian operators of Domino’s Pizza Inc. and McDonald’s Corp. dropped after a local research agency said that burger and pizza bread sold at the fast-food outlets contained cancer-causing chemicals and Apple Could Hit Setback in Push to Open Retail Stores in India
Market Analyst at ETM Analytics Jana van Deventer looks at the South African Government Bonds which came under pressure in recent sessions, Pioneer foods, South Africa's second largest producer of staple foods says import tariff on wheat has increased from R 156 per ton to R 1224 per ton in the past twelve months and the USD dollar has rallied to its best levels in two months.
Retired deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke's work in the Constitutional Court, has been hailed and compared with many of his predecessors on the bench, who've given stature and credence to the judiciary. Many have praised him for keeping the highest standards and traditions of judicial excellence during his term in office, overseeing this country's journey to a worthy constitutional democracy. The Deputy Chief Justice delivered his last judgement on Friday last week, after serving the Constitutional Court for almost fifteen years. Judge Moseneke's been applauded for showing true allegiance to South Africa's Constitution.
On the Forum@8 this morning, we host Judge Dikgang Moseneke himself.
Umzinto on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast came to a standstill during a community protest against the nomination of candidates for the Local Government in August. Yesterday, businesses and schools were closed due to security concerns. Residents barricaded roads with burning tyres and other debris. Police had to fire rubber bullets to disperse angry crowds. Meanwhile in Umlazi south of Durban, residents also protested and barricaded roads. The protesters set the local councillor's offices alight. Mbuso Mkhize reports....
Former KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu says the ANC informed him last week of his possible redeployment. Mchunu resigned as premier yesterday. Reports surfaced over the weekend that Mchunu had been ordered by the party's provincial leadership to hand in his resignation this week. He lost his position as provincial chairperson to Sihle Zikalala last year. He will be replaced as KZN premier by Transport MEC and deputy ANC provincial chairperson Willies Mchunu. Senzo Mchunu has dismissed reports that he is involved in any scandal. To unpack this we are now joined on the line by political analyst, Sithembiso Madlala...
Amathole District Municipality mayor, Nomasikizi Konza, and seven others implicated in a fraud and money laundering case have been released on bail by the East London magistrate's court in the Eastern Cape. They are facing charges of fraud and money laundering to the tune of over two million rand. This report by Yanga Funani
Three people died while several others were injured in various parts of Kenya during opposition protests called to push for the resignation of the country's electoral commission officials. In Kisumu, Homa Bay and Siaya towns in the West of the country, some of the opposition strongholds, the protests turned violent as police pushed to stop the protests, which they have termed illegal. The opposition says the electoral commission as it is currently constituted, cannot be trusted to carry out a free and fair election. The commissioners have said they have not been found guilty of any wrong-doing and will therefore not resign. Sarah Kimani reports
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it has decided to approach the Supreme Court of Appeal, to apply for leave to appeal against President Jacob Zuma's so-called spy tapes judgement. Last month, the Pretoria High Court ruled that the decision to withdraw charges was irrational. The Executive Secretary at the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC), Lawson Naidoo, however says it does not seem as if there are strong grounds for appeal. We caught up with Naidoo for more on this developing story...
The woman who accused Western Cape ANC Chairperson, Marius Fransman, of sexual harassment has expressed disappointed after the case was dropped. The NPA has confirmed that the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West declined to prosecute due to lack of evidence. Chris Mabuya reports
Market Analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at the dollar which retreated against all of its major counterparts as traders weighed the likelihood that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates next month and the G-7 Shows Gaps on Currency Tactics as Leaders' Summit Looms.
Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has denied abusing state resources to bring a Burundian woman into the country. A report in the Suday Times paper reported that she smuggled the 28-year-old into South Africa after flying from Waterkloof Air Force Base to the Democratic Republic of Congo to collect her. The woman was reportedly arrested for falsifying travel documents, which the minister's sister, who then worked in the Burundian embassy, had arranged for her. Joining us on the line is Mike Ramagoma, Head of the Ministerial Services.
South Africans are being urged to expose and isolate those who promote violence during elections. President Jacob Zuma and different faith leaders led a National Prayer Day for peaceful local government elections in Durban yesterday. They also prayed for rain as well as national unity and social cohesion following the recent spate of xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports
The Vice Chancellor of the University of the Free State, Professor Jonathan Jansen, and Professor Adam Habib, the Vice Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand, have called for better leadership and more participation from communities in dealing with the violence that is threatening to characterise the education sector in the country. They were speaking at the Kingsmead Book Fair in Rosebank, where they discussed violence in education. Krivani Pillay speaks Professor Adab Habib - Vice Chancellor at Wits.
The leader of the EFF, Julius Malema, has called for transparency in housing allocation lists. Malema was addressing EFF supporters in Port Elizabeth that is part of the hotly contested Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. He says the housing list should be made public to avoid corruption in the allocation of houses.Siphokazi Chutu reports
Today is the last day for voters wishing to participate in the upcoming Local Government Elections to either register or re-register in a new voting district or to update their registration details at their local IEC office.The local government elections are scheduled for the 3rd of August. A week ago, the IEC told parliament that preparations for the coming Local Government Elections have been tough, but is progressing well. Krivani Pillay chats to Sy Mamabolo, Deputy Chief electoral officer at the IEC.
Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has denied abusing state resources to bring a Burundian woman into the country. A report in the Suday Times paper reported that she smuggled the 28-year-old into South Africa after flying from Waterkloof Air Force Base to the Democratic Republic of Congo to collect her. The woman was reportedly arrested for falsifying travel documents, which the minister's sister, who then worked in the Burundian embassy, had arranged for her. Joining us on the line is Mike Ramagoma, Head of the Ministerial Services.
Jana van Deventer market Analyst from ETM Analytics looks at the main drivers behind the local currency's movements and Political risks that are lingering with the NPA expected to appeal the spy tapes ruling against President Zuma.
An innovative housing pilot project has been launched in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria. An environmentaly-friendly structure is erected over an existing shack ensuring that the shack-owner does not have to relocate while their shack is being converted into a house. Tshwane Executive Mayor, Kgosientso Ramokgopa, says the coverted shacks, dubbed "the Lighthouse", take only four weeks to complete. The double-storey "lighthouse" which is rodent-proof also comes with superior thermal and acoustic features. Maluti Obuseng reports
Mineral Resources Minister, Mosebenzi Zwane, has told management at Impala Platinum Mine that his ministry will leave no stone unturned in determining the cause of fatal accidents at the mine. Last Tuesday a rock fall incident left one miner dead, while the other one remains trapped underground. This is the second fatal accident in four months, following the January incident, in which four miners died when a fire broke out in another shaft. Lucas Mothibedi compiled this report...
The Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions is hosting its annual conference in Mbabane, Swaziland, this week. The two-day conference will see more than seventeen members of the union deliberate alternatives to changes brought about by Climate Change. The gathering comes amid a decrease in agricultural production due to the recent drought that has hit many countries in the SADC region. Farmers are now expected to seek solutions to this and many other challenges facing the agricultural sector. Abongile Dumako reports
Monday the students of Fort Hare went on protest action demanding that management address their 16 demands before the 100-years celebrations, this as the university prepares to celebrate its centenary. Some of their demands are that those accepted by NSFAS, be given their meal cards with immediate effect and that the residence fee increment reversed. Some of the students were quoted as saying the celebrations won't go ahead until their demands are addressed by President Jacob Zuma.
A South African rifleman was among 129 fallen UN peacekeepers honoured by the United Nations with the posthumous awarding of the Dag Hammarskjold medal for the fallen military, police and civilian personnel killed in 2015. SANDF soldiers Toto Tom Malashe was killed when his unit was ambushed while escorting a logistics convoy as part of their deployment with joint AU-UN mission in Darfur, Sudan. This was the 12th time in the last 13 years that the UN has honoured the passing of more than 100 blue helmets who lost their lives in the line of duty. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Impala Platinum Mine near Rustenburg says chances of finding the missing miner still alive are getting slim. The mine revealed overnight that they found a body of one miner in an area with extremely unstable ground. The two miners were trapped underground on Tuesday following a rock fall. Mine spokesperson Johan Theron says they are continuing the search...
Co-operative Governance Minister, David van Rooyen, says more emphasis will be put into training councillors after the elections. Van Rooyen was speaking at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Special National Members Assembly in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. SALGA has developed a new Induction Manual to train councillors which is inline with the back-to-basics approach adopted by the department. Mcebisi Ngqina reports...
South Africa's most celebrated Deputy Chief Justice is set to retire, after serving 15 years on the bench. Justice Dikgang Moseneke helped steer South Africa's highest court - the Constitutional Court - over a tumultuous period shaping our laws in notable ways. With dogged determination, Moseneke faced off with politicians, both inside and outside the court, speaking truth to power. Some say that this cost him a promotion to become the Chief Justice. Senior Constitutional Court reporter, Candice Nolan sat down with Moseneke and filed this report
Co-operative Governance Minister, David van Rooyen, says more emphasis will be put into training councillors after the elections. Van Rooyen was speaking at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Special National Members Assembly in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. SALGA has developed a new Induction Manual to train councillors which is inline with the back-to-basics approach adopted by the department. Mcebisi Ngqina reports
In less than three months, South Africans will vote in the 2016 local government elections. However, in the build up to the vote, we've seen a number of community protests in the country. According to local government data and intelligence organisation, Municipal IQ, 2016 is set to be a record year for protest action. The organisation says this year has seen 70 protests compared to a total of 164 for 2015‚ and 191 for 2014. Commentators say the protests are an indication that people are growing impatient and are calling for government to take their demands seriously. GUESTS: Des van Rooyen, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs: Koketso Moeti, Local Government Action, National Co-ordinator and Nomfundo Mogapi , Executive Director at the Centre For The Study Of Violence And Reconciliation
A community leader from Chibok in north eastern Nigeria says almost all the girls kidnapped over two years ago by Boko Haram are being held in the Sambisa forest. The leader was quoting a girl who has been rescued from the outskirts of the forest. Amina Ali Nkeki was found carrying a baby by an army-backed vigilante group in the Sambisa Forest, close to the border with Cameroon. Over 200 girls remain missing after their abduction from a secondary school in April 2014. The girls were taken by militants from Boko Haram. We caught up with a Member of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign Rotimi Olawole for more details...
The South African Communist Party has accused the head of the Hawks, Lieutenant-Genera Berning Ntlemeza of pursuing a political agenda. The party claims that Ntlemeza was overheard saying his 'new mandate' was to harass Communists and the next in line was Madoda Sambatha of North West. The SACP says the conduct of the Hawks under Ntlemeza's stewardship leaves much to be desired. We also caught up with Solly Mapaila, Second Deputy General Secretary of the South African Communist Party for more on thi story...
Students from the Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape resumed their violent protests last night with cars on the Alice campus being pelted with stones and tyres set alight. The protesting students are demanding that those accepted by NSFAS, be given their meal cards with immediate effect. They also want the residence fee increment reversed. Students broke into various buildings and looted tablet computers and groceries while tyres were being burned at the entrance of the campus. We earlier caught up with our reporter at the institution, including SRC president Thandikhaya Mathokazi and Fort Hare University's director of institutional advancement, Zinhle Filtane...
President Jacob Zuma says he did not lie to Parliament and the nation when he said he had a loan on his Nkandla home in northern Kwa Zulu-Natal. He was replying to to questions in the National Assembly. Earlier DA leader Mmusi Maimane claimed the president had misled the nation after the Public Protector and the Constitutional Court ruled his family had unduly benefited from non-security upgrades at his residence. To further discuss this further we spoke to Professor Richard Calland, an associate Professor of Law at the University of Cape Town and also a member of the Council for the advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC)
The National Council of Provinces has passed the Expropriation Bill with the support of all provinces except the Western Cape. One of the objectives of the bill is to give the Public Works Minister the power to expropriate property on behalf on an organ of state if it is deemed in the Public interest. Just and equitable compensation will be key, before any property can be expropriated. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
There were chaotic scenes in the National Assembly again yesterday afternoon. This, after EFF MPS tried again to prevent President Jacob Zuma from responding to oral questions in the house. After they refused to leave the House when ordered to do so by the Speaker Baleka Mbete, they were forcibly ejected out of the National Assembly by members of parliament's protection servces. Lulama Matya reports...
The National African Chamber of Commerce (Nafcoc) says any decision to increase the minimum drinking age to 21 years will be challenge in court. The President of NAFCOC, Lawrence Mavundla says the proposed bill doesn't make sense at all and that as soon as the revised version is made public, they will engage it. We caught up with him for more on this story...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Gauteng government has condemned what it calls the "rowdy behaviour" of a group of meter taxi operators. This after MEC for Roads and Transport in Gauteng, Ishmael Vadi was intimidated following an announcement that his department is to start issuing licenses to Uber drivers and regulate them like metered taxis in the province. The move has angered some operators who wants Uber drivers not to be allowed to operate at all. For more on this we caught up with both the MEC for Roads and Transport Ishmael Vadi and meter taxi operator, Brown Mamaribe...
The University of Johannesburg has vowed to have the arsonists responsible for burning its main auditorium apprehended and brought to justice. It is believed that arsonists fire bombed Kingsway campus' main thousand seater auditorium and computer laboratories. The damage is estimated at 100 million rand. Some students have blamed campus security for the fire. We earlier spoke to a student at the University of Johannesburg Ndiphiwe Makaula...
President Jacob Zuma's oral reply session and a snap debate on the crisis facing Vuwani in Limpopo are expected to take centre stage in Parliament today. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent looks at what is expected to happen in Parliament today and she filed this report...
Schools in Vuwani are reported to have started on a slow pace yesterday with a low turnout and students left stranded without classes to attend to. Limpopo government says it has expected less that 50 percent turnout on the first day and that numbers to pick up as time goes on. More than 20 schools were burned down during violence, which led to a complete shutdown of schools for two weeks. Sakina Kwamwendo speaks to the Spokesperson for the Limpopo government, Phuti Seloba for the latest in Vuwani...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
The recent gang violence in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth, has attracted the attention of DA leader Mmusi Maimane. He paid a visit to the Ruiters family whose two-year-old daughter was killed when a stray bullet hit her in their yard in Helenvale. It happened in December during a gang war that is continuing in the area. Veronica Fourie reports ..
The EFF leader, Julius Malema, says if his party wins the Cape Town Metro, it will expropriate land without compensation. He was addressing party members in a packed Gugulethu Sport Complex on the Cape Flats. Malema says they are willing to test the Constitution in court regarding the land issue. He says that taking over Cape Town after the Local Government elections in August, is his party's priority. Zalene Merrington reports
The Presidency has dismissed reports that Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan faces an imminent arrest. The Sunday Times newspaper has reported that the Hawks want Gordhan to be charged of "espionage" in a case related to the activities of the SA Revenue Service's so-called "rogue unit". For more on this we are joined on the line by Associate Editor at Daily Waverick, Ranjeni Munusamy...
Schooling is today ( Monday 16/05/16) expected to resume in over one hundred schools in Vuwani and surrounding villages in Limpopo. Residents have been protesting against the inclusion of their areas into a new municipality. The violent protest action has left twenty schools gutted and vandalised. Sakina Kwamwendo speaks to our reporter in Vuwani Witness Tiva
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks as they rise, Africa's Growth prospects still great and Uber China Rival Didi to consider U.S. IPO as soon as 2017
ANC secretary-general, Gwede Mantashe says the ANC is not made up of saints and that the party leaders can commit mistakes from time to time. Addressing a church congregants at Tsolo in the Eastern Cape he reiterated that there'll be no recall of President Jacob Zuma despite widespread calls. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
Mohammed Nalla, Head of Strategic Research at Nedbank Corporation and Investment Bank looks at how reports around Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan could cause some rand volatility and Moody's downgrades Saudi Arabia
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged investors attending the World Economic Forum in Kigali, Rwanda to invest in South Africa's infrastructure. Ramaphosa was speaking during a panel discussion on infrastructure investment. He told delegates at the forum that South Africa still has a large number of infrastructure projects. Tshepo Mongoai reports….
Brazil has been plunged into renewed political turmoil after the Senate voted to impeach president Dilma Rousseff. The Senate voted in favour of putting Rousseff on trial, for breaking budget laws by 55 votes to 22. To unpack this, Sakina Kwamwendo speaks to Tom Wheeler, an independent commentator and former diplomat.
Vaal University of Technology management has admitted that allegations of theft made by students against campus security guards are true. This follows this violent clashes between students and the guards at the university's main campus in Vanderbijl Park, south of Johannesburg. Some students were injured. The students are demanding improved security within campus following burglary incidents. They also want the security company in charge to be removed. Classes have been suspended. Wisani Makhubele has more....
The Tshiko-nelo royal council will appeal a high court decision giving the demarcation board the green light to establish a new municipality in the Vhembe district in Limpopo. The new municipality is to include Vuwani and surrounding villages. The council is part of those who lost the bid to have the high court reverse the board's decision. A top government delegation is in Vuwani in a bid to end the ongoing violent protest and shut down in the area. Pimani Baloyi reports...
The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has orderd the directors of Aurora Empowerment System to pay the workers or be sequestrated. President Jacob Zuma's nephew, Khulubuse Zuma is one of the three directors ordered to pay. His Spokesperson Vuyo Mkhize says Khulubuse Zuma is not liable for making any payments and that what Trade Union Solidarity is saying is misrepresentation.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian equities as they fall toward a one-month low, Vodacom Overtakes MTN as Africa's Biggest Mobile-Phone Company and Thursday Investment Theme is the significance of South Africa falling 3rd in Africa as an economy.
Nerina Visser, strategist and advisor at ETFSA looks at the World Economic Forum on Africa for 2016 is currently underway in Kigali, Rwanda and South Africa now only the third largest economy in Africa, after Nigeria and Egypt
An economist at KPMG, Christie Viljoen, says South Africa has slipped to number 3 on the African continent, and is not only behind Nigeria, but now also Egypt. That's according to Viljoen's analysis based on the International Monetary Fund's latest figures. South Africa lost its status as the continent's largest economy in 2014, when it finished an exersice to rebase its economic data. Now, KPMG notes the IMF suggests that Egypt has overtaken South Africa as the second largest economy in Africa
Residents of Agincourt in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga are calling for the resignation of their Municipal Regional Manager, Ephraem Nkuna. They are accusing him of corruption and employing politically connected people. The angry residents marched to the municipality's regional offices and handed over a memorandum yesterday. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports....
Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula says the country has reached a stage where it needs to decide whether it wants a defence force or not. Speaking to the media ahead of her department's budget vote the Minister said the budget vote should decide where the country is going to and if it wants to influence the direction in which the continent is going. Joseph Mosia reports
The SABC says from today, it will play 90% local music across all platforms. This in a bid to ensure that the broadcaster prioritises more local content that reflects the diversity of South African cultures. This follows extensive consultation with various stakeholders including music representatives. The public broadcaster says it will continue to engage its audiences to evaluate whether they are satisfied with these changes. Sakina Kwamwendo spoke to both legendary jazz musician Don Laka and SABC's spokesperson, Kaizer Motaung...
With the local elections coming in less than three months' time, service delivery protests are on the increase. This is according to data collected by Municipal IQ, an organisation that specialises in research on service delivery protests. In a statement, Karen Heese, who is an Economist at the Municipal IQ has expressed concern about an increase in service delivery protests just before elections.
Nerina Visser strategist and adviser at ETF SA looks at the global ratings agencies, what is the direct impact on the amount of money government can spend and there is growing focus on small business development in SA
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Commodity, Oil companies using alternate energy to spike their performances with weak oil prices and South Africa approves SABMiller, Coke bottling deal on condition.
The department of health is planning to launch a programme next month, geared towards keeping young women away fro the so-called blessers. The announcement was made during Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi's budget speech in parliament yesterday. The wide-ranging plan would according to the minister, have 5 objectives, which include decreasing infection rates in young women and girls including decreasing teenage pregnancies. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi
Impeachment calls for the high court Judge, Mabel Jansen is growing after she allegedly made racist and bigotry comments on social media against black people. In a conversation with the Co-Founder of Media Justice and Activist Gillian Schutte, Jansen said that black people's conduct is despicable because gang rapes of babies, daughters and mothers is a pleasurable past time. Activist Gillian Schutte and President for Black Lawyers Association Lutendo Sigogo speak to Sakina amwendo
Liberation movements say they are concerned by what they call attempts by western countries to effect regime change within the southern Africa region. These parties include the ANC, Tanzania's Chama-Cha-Mapinduzi, Frelimo of Mozambique, Swapo of Namibia, Angola's MPLA and Zimbabwe's ruling Zannu-PF. They met at the holiday resort of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe over the past weekend to take stalk of political developments in their respective countries. Ntebo Mokobo reports.
The controversial Gauteng E-Toll project has once again generated a fierce debate in the National Assembly. This as the Transport Minister Dipuo Peters delivered her budget vote. Concern over vandalism of public property, rail safety and reliability also came un der the spotlight. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more..
The Department of Trade and Industry is to launch a dedicated gas industrialisation unit next week to drive the latest industrial policy action plan (ipap. )The programme is in collaboration with other government departments and industry stakeholders. An action plan for the unit has already been developed by a working group consisting of departmental officials, industry experts and representatives of Sasol, working closely with the Department of Energy. We spoke to Deputy Director General at the DTI, Garth Strachan....
COSATU has called for an urgent jobs summit to discuss what they call shocking and depressing unemployment figures released by Stats SA. This after President Jacob Zuma met with labour and business leaders to discuss job creation and economic growth in our country. Ahead of the State Of The Nation in February this year, the President established a business-government task team to explore ways the South African Economy can deal with its slow economic growth. We spoke to General Secretary of COSATU, Bheki Ntshalintshali and Dr Iraj Abedian ,Chief Economist for Pan African Investments and Research Services....
The South African Police Service says it will assess the seriousness of an alleged plot to kill Public Protector Thuli Madonsela - before deciding whether to beef up her security. SAPS says it is working with its various structures including crime intelligence and the Western Cape Provincial Commissioner's office to investigate claims made to Madonsela by a whistleblower that a Western Cape gang boss had been paid seven hundred and fourty thousand rand to arrange a hit on her. Madonsela revealed the plot to the Sunday Times this weekend. Busi Chimombe reports
Market Analyst Clive Intozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian commodity producers drop amid a slump in oil and industrial metals, oil producers are evacuating workers from the Niger Delta because of the deteriorating security situation and South African unemployment hits record high.
What, if anything, will the Constitutional Court do about our less than perfect national voters roll? The clock is ticking for a solution, as the voters roll must be certified by the end of May in order to be ready for the August municipal elections. The IEC wants the Constitutional Court to intervene after the Electoral Court set aside the voters roll for the Tlokwe by-elections. This was because the IEC is unable to provide verifiable addresses for some 4000 voters. The IEC says that that judgment spells catastrophe for our national voters roll. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details
Yesterday was a blue Monday on markets with topping the list of bad news was the first Quater Labour survey, mining stocks falling and Eskom is not forecasting any load shedding for this winter
Market Analyst Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela looks at Asian shares trading which are mostly lower, China steel export surge this year and Bonitas and Liberty medical scheme set to merge
Strategist at ETFSA Nerina Visser looks at Moody’s to NOT downgrade SA’s sovereign rating, one of the factors contributing factors for the lack of domestic economic growth is the weak outlook globally and the Rand weakened quite dramatically at one stage last week
The families of two people drowned at Crossmoor outside Chatswoth south of Durban are still searching FOR the bodies of their loved ones. Four people drowned when they tried to cross the river on Friday night coming from a church service. The heavy rains also flooded houses in areas such as Isipingo, Lamontville and other areas around Durban. Meanwhile a railway track at Zwelethu in Umlazi south of Durban was also closed as a result of a mud slide caused by heavy rains. Cassandra Zungu compiled this report..
The South African Democratic Teachers Union is threatening to take Basic Education Department to court over its report into the jobs-for-cash scandal. The report, which was first supposed to be released in February, was to have been released on Friday last week, but was again delayed for a further two weeks. The task team was established to investigate allegations that Sadtu members were selling principal and deputy principal posts for up to 30 thousand and more at schools in the North West, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Gauteng and Mpumalanga. Sakina Kamwendo speak to Sadtu Secretary General Mugwena Maluleke and Education spokesperson, Elijah Mhanga
Minister of State Security David Mahlobo has warned they will continue to arrest more people including chiefs, politicians and businessmen involved in criminal activities in Vuwani outside Thohoyandou. Twenty four schools, three municipal trucks and two houses were burnt during the protests in Vuwani in the past week. Residents are against the inclusion of their area into a new municipality in Vhembe district. Michael Makungo nad Mabu Boloka filed this reports...
South Africans must learn the Constitution. This is the sentiment arising from a panel discussion hosted by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation. The discussion revolved around 20 years of the Constitution and the I am An African Speech. Panelists say there is a need to make the Constitution part of South Africans daily living. The panelists say the failure to mobilise people around the Constitution is due to people not identifying with it. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
Communities in Vuwani and surrounding areas in Limpopo are starting to feel the impact of the shut-down. The local shopping complex is partly surrounded by police's razor wire, as angry protesting residents burn schools and infustructure. At some villages residents are forced to walk long distances to reach the main road to go and buy food at towns like Elim, Thohoyandou and Louis Trichardt. Some clinics are also not operating. Rudzani Tshivhase reports
Business rescue practitioner at Lily Gold Mine in Mpumalanga, Rob Deveraux ,says the mine is still engaging with shareholders and the private sector to get funding. This after the mine applied for business rescue a few weeks ago. Three workers remain trapped underground after a collapse three months ago. The mine failed to pay its workers last month, which led to a protest action yesterday morning
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks which dropped, the rand weakened below R15 per and Competition Commission will ask for a new extension to its investigation into AB InBev takeover of SABMiller
Gauteng's MEC's for Community Safety and Transport yesterday met with various taxi owners and traffic chiefs from across the province in an attempt to curb the ongoing road fatalities. This follows last Friday's incident on the R41 in Randfontein west of Johannesburg where 15 people were killed following a crash involving a taxi and a truck. Three people were also injured during a shootout between rival taxi organisations on Wednesday outside the newly opened Mall of Africa. Jacques Steenkamp reports.
President Jacob Zuma has sent an interministerial Task Team to the violence toned Vuwani area of Limpopo this in a bid to bring back stability. Some residents of Vuwani and surrounding villages have embarked on a violent protest expressing dissatisfaction over the Municipal Demarcation Board's decision, to merge their area with another one to form a new local municipality in the Vhembe District. The team led by the State Security Minister David Mahlobo held a press conference last night in Thohoyandou. Rudzani Tshivhase reports
Investment Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at what to expect from the US job numbers and the SA business confidence numbers both coming out today and what looks at the findings from the consumer credit index
Rules of engagement took centre stage on the first day of the Claassen Board of Inquiry in Pretoria. Lawyers of suspended Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega accused the defence team of attempting to expand the scope of terms of reference of the inquiry. The inquiry was set up by President Jacob Zuma to determine suspended police commissioner Riah Phiyega's fitness to hold office. This is as per recommendations of the Farlam commission which investigated the mass killing of striking mineworkers by the police in 2012. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Four Wits University students who were seriously injured after the taxi they were travelling in collided with a trailer in Mokopane have been transferred to the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Johannesburg. Two ambulances left the Voortrekker hospital in Mokopane this afternoon. Meanwhile, the families of the seven students who died in the accident are at a mortuary in Mokopane, where they are in the process of identifying their loved ones. They have been joined by a team from Wits University which is providing assistance. Katlego Nyoni reports......
Members of MMM South Africa want their donation scheme to be declared legitimate. The members have approached the North Gauteng High Court through their representative after some of their bank accounts were frozen. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) says they did not freeze anyone's bank account as they don't have the mandate to. We spoke to Deputy Commissioner of the National Consumer Commission, Thezi Mabuza and Representative of MMM South Africa, Deon Janse van Rensburg who has filed court papers against the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the commissioner of the SA Police Service (SAPS) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), to declare MMM legitimate....
To mark the 25TH anniversary of media day, yesterday Zimbabwean journalists and civil society groups marched in the capital Harare for Press freedom. The country's Human Rights organisations say they have witnessed a spike in attacks on press freedom by the state, but that the threat to survival of the press is also coming from within. Shingai Nyoka nyola reports...
Market Analyst Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela talks about Asian stocks which fell for a sixth day, China's Improbable Commodities Frenzy Leaves Stocks in the Dust and South Africa rating downgrades could lead to capital outflows
Market Analyst from 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at corporate profits in South Africa falling, recent weak dollar is good news for the US and Eurozone inflation forecasts were realeased yesterday
Four schools, a post office, vehicles and a tribal office have been set alight by the protesting residents. Commuters have been left stranded as the total shut down of services is continuing in the area. Residents are protesting against the decision to include Vuwani into the new municipality to be established in Vhembe. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC reporter Witness Tiva and Limpopo government spokesperson, Phuti Seloba
Much anticipated board of inquiry into the fitness of suspended national police commissioner General Riah Phiyega to hold office will kick off in Pretoria today. The inquiry chaired by retired judge Cornelius Claasen was established by President Jacob Zuma as per the recommendations of the Farlam commission which investigated the killing of 44 people during labour unrests at Lonmin's platinum mine in Marikana, North West in 2012. The inquiry will investigate among others whether Phiyega misled the commission by withholding some information related to the police's operations. Phumzile Mlangeni reports
Wits University students who survived a horrific crash that claimed the lives of nine people including seven of the university's students on Sunday night in Limpopo, will be transferred from the Mokopane hospital to Charlotte Maxexe hospital today. The students were coming from a church service in Limpopo back to Johannesburg when the mini bus taxi they were travelling in overturned and caught fire. Katlego Nyoni reports
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at emerging -market equities which fell for a third day, Australia's dollar tumbled against all of its major peers and Gold advanced above $1,300 an ounce for the first time since January 2015
Market Analyst from 27Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at China's manufacturing PMI which slipped, commodity prices drop and what does the recent dollar weakness mean
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has lifted the suspension of SA Express' Air Operator Certificate (AOC). This after, the airline's certificate was suspended last week following an audit by the Aviation Authority that revealed deficiencies relating to the operator's safety monitoring systems. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Executive Manager for Aviation Safety Operations, Simon Sekgwabe...
President Jacob Zuma has urged Cosatu affiliated members to campiagn for the ANC during election time saying the governing party does not take its unity with the federation for granted. He was speaking at the federation's main May Day Rally in Mamelodi outside Pretroria on Sunday. The event was attended by all alliance partner members including Cosatu President Sdumo Dlamini, SACP's Blade Nzimande and SANCO President Richard Mdakane. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo was there and filed this report.
South Sudanese rebel leader Riek Machar has been sworn in as first vice president. He arrived in Juba the capital on Tuesday, after repeated delays to implement a peace agreement. Machar resumes a post he held before the conflict erupted in December 2013. The development ends his 28-month military conflict with President Salva Kiir, which has killed tens of thousands of people. To chat to us about this latest development, Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Ambassador of South Sudan to South Africa, His Excellency Phillip Jada Natana.
The National Teacher's Union says the Department of Basic Education did not consult them about introducing teacher licenses to professionalise teaching. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Deputy President of the National Teacher's Union Allan Thompson.
Department of Basic Education is considering issuing licences to new teachers. This is an attempt by the department to strengthen the teaching profession in the country. The department is working closely with the South African Council for Educators through standard setting and strengthening the induction of new teachers. FSakina Kamwendo speaks to Basic Education Spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Stocks which fell, Big Oil earnings season has started with a surprise that some analysts already say their estimates for the other companies may be too low and what to expect from the JSE after #FreedomDay holiday
East African leaders have welcomed the swearing in of South Sudan's rebel leader Dr. Riek Machar hours after he returned to the capital Juba on Wednesday. Kenya's Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Amina Mohammed said Machar's return fulfills one of the conditions of the peace agreement signed last year and offers a chance for the world's youngest nation to end the two year conflict in the country. Sarah Kimani reports...
Impala Platinum's Zimbabwe unit has submitted new black empowerment proposals to governments. The proposals, the second submitted in three years show how Zimplats intends to comply with the country's indigenization law. The law bans majority foreign shareholding in mining firms. Our correspondent Shingai Nyoka reports from Harare
South Africans in London were just one group of expats who celebrated Freedom Day far from the motherland....with a braai, beer and music, recreating a bit of home under cold skies of London. Our reporter Catherine Drew went along and filled this report.
Policy and political analyst at UNISA Professor Somadoda Fikeni says although South Africa is a country of hope, its people are experiencing moments of despair. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Professor Somadoda Fikeni
A Constitutional Court judgment puts paid to a David and Goliath battle for fair compensation. At the centre of the battle is the multi-billion rand Please Call Me concept, which is listed among the top five South African innovations of the decade. Sixteen years ago, Nkosana Makate, a trainee accountant, pitched his idea to his then employer - cellphone giant Vodacom. The highest Court in the land has now ordered Vodacom to negotiate fair compensation with Makate. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan reports
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian equities which fell for a third day, Concerns about Britain's exit from the European Union are starting to look overdone and what to expect against from the JSE
The International Criminal Court has announced it is launching preliminary examination into the situation in Burundi for alleged crimes including rape, murder and torture. At least four hundred and thirty people have been killed and over three thousand four hundred arrested in violence and unrest in Burundi since disputed elections last April. Our Europe correspondent Jack Parrock reports.
Afriforum says it will complain to international sports bodies abouts Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula's ban on SA Rugby‚ Cricket SA‚ Netball SA and Athletics SA hosting international events. Yesterday, Minister Mbalula annouced that he has decided to impose punitive measures on four of the big five federations who haven't met their transformation targets. This base on the findings of the Eminent Persons Group on transformation in sport. This report by Samatha Marie In Johannesburg
The news of the death of Founder of Park Lane Fertility clinic, Doctor Herman Netshidzivhani has shocked his friends, colleagues and female patients. Netshidzivhani, the first black fertility doctor in South Africa, died in a motorbike accident on the N1 in Polokwane on Saturday. His patients say he gave them hope when they thought they could never have babies. Senior journalist Thabile Mbhele reports....
The EFF says it will defend it's leader, Julius Malema on a treason charge laid by the ANC at the Hillbrow police station in Johannesburg. The ANC was responding to comments that Malema made during an interview with Television network Al Jazeera. Malema warned the ruling party that if it continued to respond violently to peaceful protests, his party would remove the current government - quote- 'through the barrel of a gun'. Amos Phago reports...
Nadir Thokan, Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers looks at Saudi Arabia agreement on plans to move away from oil profits, markets eyeing the US Federal Reserve's rate announcement tomorrow and Pick n Pay interim earnings expected today
South Africa and Iran have agreed to increase non-oil trade and investment to a billion dollars by 2020. This emerged after bilateral talks between President Jacob Zuma and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani in the capital Tehran, Iran yesterday. President Zuma is on a two-day visit to strengthen bilateral trade and investment between South Africa and Iran. The lifting of sanctions against Iran in January has brought new opportunities for foreign businesses. Iran holds ten percent of the world's oils reserves, and has the worlds second largest natural gas reserves. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) believes Johannesburg needs a complete facelift. UDM leader Bantu Holomisa says dilapidated buildings, poor infrastructure and densely populated settlements have turned the city into unhygienic environment. He addressed party supporters at the launch of the party's Gauteng election manifesto with the theme, Community First, in Pretoria. Phanuel Shuma reports
LTE Consulting Engineers is being accused of a billion rand maladministration in a tender for water and sanitation, which was allegedly awarded without following proper procedures. According to media reports, President Jacob Zuma has asked the Special Investigating Unit to investigate the matter. The tender allegedly amounted to R502 million, but then ballooned to R2.7bn within a year. The CEO of LTE HOLDINGS, Thulani Majola, says these claims of tender irregularity and investigation are not true. He says the figure mentioned was a three year projection compiled on the business plan. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to LTE CEO Thulani Majola
SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng has announced the SABC will launch several language-based television channels which will serve the SABC's audiences in the language of their choice and no more external advising for jobs and tenders. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Hlaudi Motsoeneng
The World Health Oragnaization says the global efforts to fight and control malaria and the implemented actions to combat the disease are still a challenge, as today marks World Malaria day. WHO says the theme for 2016 - "End Malaria for good" - reflects the vision of a malaria-free world set out in the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030. The strategy sets the target of reducing global malaria incidence and mortality rates by at least 90% by 2030. Sakina speaks to Vanessa Raju the spokesperson for the South African National Blood Service
In an interview with Aljazeera which aired last night EFF leader Julius Malema said the EFF is ready to remove the government by force if it responds violently to protests
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Markets Analyst Clive Ntozabantu Ramathibela looking at Asian shares which were set for the first back-to-back declines in a month as the Japanese yen strengthened and crude oil retreated from a 5-month high, China's Economy seems to be recovering faster than and expected and the 5 expenses that will change in retirement
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27 four Investment Managers looks at China debt load reaches record high as risk to economy mounts, South African inflation slowed for the first time in seven months in March and a summarry of US earnings season so far?
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly at KwaZulu-Natal being a recipient of a hat-trick of multi-billion-rand investments, South Africa’s Sibanye Gold has board approval to spend nearly R4-billion on its booming gold mines and a promising new African auto association has been formed to spread manufacturing know-how across the continent.
The Seriti Commission of Inquiry into the Arms Deal has found no evidence of corruption against any person or institution. President Jacob Zuma released the commission's report at this office in Cape Town. The commission has found among other things that no undue or improper influence had played any role in the selection of the preferred bidders. It also found no evidence of bribery, corruption and fraud, especially in relation to the selection of the preferred bidders and the costs. Joseph Mosia reports
The United States Presidential candidates have been laying out what their policies would look like in relation to the African continent. Representatives from the five remaining candidates; Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, Ted Cruz, Donald Trump and John Kasich were speaking at an event in Washington DC. Harry Horton reports.
The country could generate up to six billion rand annually with the sugar-sweetened beverage tax announced by government earlier this year. It could also reduce the number of obese people by 220 thousand over the next three years. These are some of the findings from research conducted by Priceless SA, a unit of Wits University's School of Public Health. Senior Health Journalist Thabile Mbhele reports...
Overcrowding in classrooms, the conversion of temporary teaching posts to permanent and the completion of laboratories built across the Free State - these are some of the demands by teachers belonging to the South African Democratic Teachers' Union. About two thousand Free State SADTU members have marched through the streets of Bloemfontein. They handed over a memorandum of demands to the office of the premier. Konelo Lekhafola report...
Glebelands resident tells AM live anchor Sakina Kamwendo that people are shot and killed under the cctv cameras in the hostels and not arrests are made. The anonymous caller says he has been living in Glabelands for the past 25 years.
Over five hundred residents of Marikana in the North West province, who allegedly occupied RDP houses illegally, refuse to be evicted. These residents marched to the local police station yesterday afternoon and burnt eviction letters handed to them earlier in the day. Bafedile Moerane reports
Frightened resident of Glebelands hostel in Umlazi, Durban are now turning to the United Nation for help. They've been living in fear following another killing at the hostel. ANC councillor Zodwa Sibiya was shot and killed on Saturday. More than 60 people have been murdered at the hostel in the past two years. Community Activist for Human Rights & Social Justice, Vanessa Burger says members of the community have now resorted to seeking help from the United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner.
- Asian markets mostly mixed continue to show strength in emerging markets currencies
- China extends controls on wealth of officials to Beijing and beyond
- Concerning report by Stats SA shows the effects of a slowing down economy
South African teenagers are addicted to cell phones and cannot live without them. When their mobile phones are taken away, they experience withdrawal symptoms similar to an addict quitting drugs. This is according to a study by the University of South Africa's Bureau of Market Research. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Deon Tustin, Head of the Bureau of Market Research at Unisa...
Students at Rhodes University want policies meant to protect them from sexual crimes to be reviewed by management. This comes after a group of students stormed the University's law faculty in Grahamstown demanding to speak to the Dean of the faculty. This incident is triggered by a list of 11 male students accused of sexual assault incidents, which was circulated on Facebook. Sakina kamwendo spoke to the Editor of Activate; Campus Newspaper, Mako Muzenda and Vice Chancellor of the University Professor Sizwe Mabizela...
South Africa's high level government delegation led President Jacob Zuma has arrived Namibia for a round of talks relating to the Southern African Customs Union. SACU is the customs union established to set a common rate of tariff on all goods coming in from outside the member states. While member states including Botswana, Swaziland and Lesotho have indicated the political will to make the union's plans a success, several factors have made progress to move at a snail's pace. The challenges will come under spotlight as Zuma meets with his Namibian counterpart Hage Geingob today. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports....
Children with autism from the Dasha Foundation spent yesterday afternoon with the Pumas Rugby Club at the Mbombela stadium in Mpumalanga. The joint effort between this rugby team and the Mbombela Municipality seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of ignoring the severity of this disability. Children with Autism continue to face challenges both from their counter-parts and society in general. Abongile Dumako reports
- Argentina returns to global capital markets with $15bn bond issue as ratings upgraded
- Global risk-on pushes U.S. markets to 2016 high
- Risk appetite supports rand in push lower
Police have confirmed that two drivers of a bus which crashed near Winburg in the Free State at the weekend will be charged with culpable homicide. Police say they have enough evidence to prove that the two drivers caused the crash by swapping seats while the vehicle was in motion. Meanwhile, The family of one of eleven ANC volunteers from Ekurhuleni who died in the accident says they're saddened by the sudden loss of their sibling who was the family bread-winner. The bus was returning from the launch of the ANC election manifesto in Port Elizabeth. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports...
- Asian markets finish low as oil prices put pressure on them
- Emerging markets moving positive as hard developed currencies struggle to maintain momentum
- African rainbow Capital to invest in more black companies
GangsterismMustFall movement says the police alone will not solve gangsterism in the Western Cape. The organisation calls for a more holistic approach which includesFor government, labour, business and civil society to fight the culture of gangsterism in Cape Flats communities. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Convenor of the #GangsterismMustFall movement Roscoe Jacobs…
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is planning to roll out a new student funding model to all Universities next year. Spokesperson for the scheme Kagisho Mmamabolo says the new system will be able to prefund and students won't have to apply for funding every year.
Convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius, will appear in the Pretoria High Court today. It is expected that the matter will be postponed until June this year when the sentencing proceedings will begin. It will be the first time Pistorius is seen in public since the Constitutional Court refused to hear his appeal against his murder conviction. Pistorius killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, on Valentine's day in 2013. Liela Magnus reports ....
The ANC says heads will roll following a disappointing showing at the party's local government elections manifesto launch in Port Elizabeth on Saturday. Many seats were empty as President Jacob Zuma addressed the party faithful at the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium. Over a hundred thousand people were expected to attend. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports.
- OPEC talks to curb production fail over the weekend
- Brazil president faces impeachment procedures
- SARB deputy governor reiterates tough inflation stance over the weekend
One of the bus drivers involved in the crash that left eleven people dead and over fifty injured says the passengers pressured them to leave Port Elizabeth after being denied entry to the stadium. They were attending the ANC election manifesto launch at the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium on Saturday. The bus overturned after the driver lost control on the N1 near Winburg in the Free State yesterday. Thabiso Radebe reports...
Musician Simphiwe Dana says she is happy to live in a country that applies democracy where the rule of law takes precedent. She was speaking to Sakina Kamwendo during the Forum@8 on SAfm
It is an all-out battle for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. Political parties are pulling out all the stops to wrestle the Eastern Cape municipality from the ANC. The party is launching its election manifesto this weekend. This in preparation for the August 3 elections. Mcebisi Ngqina reports...
Government is committed to supporting local emerging farmers in Mpumalanga who have been affected by the drought. That's according to Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Bheki Cele. He spent the day in the Nkomazi Municipality conducting an Imbizo with struggling farmers. Abongile Dumako reports...
Transnet has disputed Botswana media reports in that it has sold second-hand passenger trains to the Botswana Railways. This comes after the trains developed technical problems a few weeks after they were delivered. Transnet Engineering CEO Thamsaqa Jiyane maintains that the trains are new and currently running. However, he says there was a major technical problem caused by human error. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
The DA has called on government to declare the drought in the country a national disaster. The party says this will allow the release of emergency relief funds to farmers. At a media briefing in parliament, the party said the drought has had a devastating effect on more than 34 million people around the country. Joseph Mosia reports...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
- Emerging-market currencies fell for the first time in six days as Singapore surprised markets by easing monetary policy
- The Australian federal government's debt pile is set to increase further without measures to boost revenues
- Investment theme: The government has resisted calls from unions and opposition politicians to nationalise the Port Talbot plant, Britain's biggest steelworks
Comair is confident that strike by 4-hundred members of the Trade Union UASA won't affect its operations. The strike is about salary disputes following the two parties unable to reach an agreement even after the CCMA's intervention. This according to the union is the first strike by employees since the inception of the airline. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Uasa's Operational Manager, Jannem Goussard.
Parliament will investigate whether it would heed calls from opposition parties to take disciplinary action against President Jacob Zuma over the Nkandla saga. Speaker Baleka Mbete said Parliament would sit down to look at the call by the opposition for disciplinary action against Zuma and the legal implication of this. For a reaction Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi
Tensions continue to simmer within the ANC over whether president Jacob Zuma should step down or not. The ruling party's national leadership has been consistent of the need for Zuma to continue to lead while structures in Gauteng and some stalwarts want him out. Calls have been mounting within and outside the ANC for the president to step down after the constitutional court found that he violated the constitution by failing to comply with the remedial actions of public protector Thuli Madonsela in relation to the Nkandla matter. Senior political journalist Amos Phago Reports.
Zimbabwe has bestowed its highest honour on a South African born woman. Kwazulu Natal native, Victoria Chitepo was buried at the country's heroes shrine yesterday. This in recognition of her contribution to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. President Mugabe told mourners that no country had suffered more loss than Zimbabwe during its struggle. Shingai Nyoka reports....
A Three-year-old child born to a South African woman imprisoned in Mozambique for drug related crimes, has been repatriated to South Africa. This child accompanied by social workers from the Department of Social Development arrived at the O.R Tambo international airport. According to the Department, the child's mother wrote to the Department requesting that the child be repatriated to South Africa for placement in foster care with his extended family. Sashin Naidoo reports..
- You said yesterday that we could expect a strong day on the JSE, but wow. There were some big movers and shakers. Talk to us about that.
- Another stronger-than-expected number yesterday was the retail sales data for February. Was this good or bad news?
- So the retail sales may provide scope for the SARB to increase domestic interest rates. Is this expected increase in the interest rate differential what is driving the Rand stronger at the moment?
Daily operations had to be suspended at the Kangra Coal Mine in Piet Retief, Mpumalanga, due to violent protest action by residents of Saul Mkhizeville. They are angry over what they call a lack of development in their community while they have a mine in their neighbourhood. Yesterday, they took to the streets blockading roads with burning tyres and rubbish demanding that the mine plough back into the community. Abongile Dumako compiled this report.
Four-million-rand has been received from the insurance of former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa, by the Premier Soccer League. The Bafana and Pirates goalkeeper was killed at his girlfriend's house in Vosloorus, in October 2014. His killers have not yet been caught. Orlando Pirates will receive half of the money, with the other two-million deposited into a special account. Sifiso Ramara reports......
- Asian markets mostly mixed as the currency battle continues
- Chinese stocks show signs of recovery as the Yuan proves resolute
- Emerging markets moving more positively than at the beginning of the year but growth still hard to come by
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
The alleged Ponzi scheme MMM's Global is reportedly collapsing. Russian convict and mastermind behind MMM Global Sergey Mavrodi has allegedly announced that the scheme has failed and is shutting down. However the South African version of MMM is said to still be operating and offers 30% returns instead of 100%. MMM South Africa is currently being investigated by police for being an alleged Ponzi scheme. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Maya Fischer-French, Personal Finance Columnist and Author of Maya on Money.
ANC in KwaZulu Natal against calls President Jacob Zuma must step down. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Science Lecturer at Monash South Africa, Busi Khaba.
The ANC in KwaZulu Natal is against the call for the President to step down. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC Provincial Spokesperson in KZN, Mdumiseni Ntuli .
It is going to take the post Office at least two years before it can return to profitability. The organisation is emerging a turbulent few years during which it faced severe leadership challenges. In a submission to the Parliament Standing Committee on Public Accounts-SCOPA, Telecommunications and Postal Services Minister Siyabonga Cwele said he is confident that the current leadership is up to the task of turning the Post Office around. Joseph Mosia reports...
SABC Chief Operating Officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng strongly warned journalists who don't adhere to the SABC's editorial policy saying they are in the firing line
Three of the nine candidates seeking to replace Ban Ki Moon as United Nations Secretary General have faced a barrage of questions from UN member states with issues around Africa and gender equality featuring prominently. On day one of the first-ever informal dialogues with candidates vying for the top post at the UN, candidates from Montenegro, Bulgaria and Portugal spent two hours each answering questions covering the depth and breathe of the work of the organisation. Sherwin Byrce Peace reports
- The IMF has once again lowered the economic growth outlook, not just for South Africa, but for most of the world. And yet despite this, markets are rallying strongly. How do you explain this?
- The impact of the very low commodity prices over the last year is clearly evident from the Q1 earnings report released by Alcoa yesterday. This traditionally kicks off the earnings season in the US. Is this a sign of things to come?
- And yet despite this so-called "earnings recession", it was reported yesterday that South Africans continue to take money out of the country at an unprecedented pace.
Communications Minister Faith Muthambi says the proposed funding model for the SABC will be finalised soon. Muthambi was responding to questions from members of the Communications Committee in Parliament after the SABC and various entities under her department, presented their budgets and strategic plans to the committee. The SABC also faced questions about the upcoming election coverage of political parties. Mercedes Besent has more
- Asian Stocks Advance as Japan's Topix Gains With Retreat of Yen
- Emerging-Market Assets Advance for Fourth Day on Dollar Weakness
- Tech stocks: Flying too high?
The World Bank has warned that countries in Sub-Saharan Africa will continue to face low and volatile prices in global commodity markets. It says different African governments must take steps to adjust to a new lower level of commodity prices and develop new sources of sustainable and inclusive growth. It however says to do this, they need better institutions for effective planning and co-ordination to spur the region's economic transformation. The bank was releasing its report titled Africa's Pulse. Morafe Tabane has more on this
Former president Thabo Mbeki has dismissed claims that introduced the Gupta family to President Jacob Zuma. In a statement released by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation Mbeki, it rejected reports that a member of the Gupta family served as an economic advisor to then-president Mbeki. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to Thabo Mbeki Foundation Mukoni Ratshitanga
While The CEO of the Gupta-owned Oakbay Resources, Nazeem Howa, says he plans to challenge bank CEOs for closing the company's accounts, thousands of employees working under for the Gupta family business face an uncertain future. Tshepo Mongoai reports
Oakbay Investments, will this week embark on a campaign to restore relations with South Africa's major banks. Last week the company owned by the Gupta family, has had a misfortune of being deserted by four banks in South Africa. There has also been a lot of controversy about the whereabout of the Gupta brothers after they resigned from their positions at Oakbay Resources on Friday. Bongi Gwala spoke to the Chief Executive Officer of Oakbay Investments, Nazeem Howa
Congress of the People (COPE) has withdrawn from parliamentary activities. This follows a meeting of the party's Congress Executive Committee in Johannesburg yesterday to consider the recent Constitutional Court judgment on President Jacob Zuma's Nkandla home. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to COPE president Mosiuoa Lekota
- The Rand has put in a very strong showing over the last few days. What is the reason for this strengthening trend?
- Does this also explain the strength in commodity prices? Both precious metals and oil prices have increased quite a bit.
- This change of fortune for gold comes at the same time as a wage settlement between AMCU and Sibanye was announced. Is this a good thing for the beleaguered gold industry?
Police at Welkom in the Free State have recovered the bodies of 3 illegal miners, also known as zama-zamas, from Harmony Mine's Eland shaft. They are believed to have inhaled methane gas underground. Police have also recovered food and beverages worth of a million rand at a house in Welkom. The food was destined for a mine shaft occupied by illegal miners. These pre-packaged food parcels get wrapped in bubble wrap and are labelled before they are thrown down ventilation shafts. Thabiso Radebe filed this report
Faith leaders from different religious denominations have accepted President Jacob Zuma's apology following the Constitutional Court judgement. Members of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa - NICSA say faith leaders must promote reconciliation and that President Zuma's apology must be seen as essential element of that process. These faith leaders are drawn from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Zionism, Rastafari, Judaism and African Independent Churches among others met in Kempton Park east of Johannesburg. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Grain SA has called for a reduction in the price of bread. This follows the announcement of a 34 percent increase in import duty on wheat by the National Treasury. Grain SA says the price of bread should actually have decreased since last December. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to CEO of Grain SA, Jannie de Villiers
Co-operative Governance Minister Des Van Rooyen has condemned the violence reported at some voter registration stations over the weekend. The final day of registration for the municipal elections began with glitches as protests flared up in parts of the country. Bongi Gwala spoke to the Chief Electoral Officer at IEC , Mosotho Moepya
- Most Asian stocks fell, as losses in Japanese equities on a stronger yen offset gains in Chinese shares
- Emerging-market currencies rose for a third day as speculation oil producers will agree to limit output pushed up prices for the commodity
- South Africa's AMCU union accepts Sibanye Gold new wage offer
Hotel and tourism staff would now be able to tackle the problem of child sex tourism. Molo Songololo and Fair Trade Tourism is training the staff on how to spot potential child abusers. To explain further Bongi Gwala spoke to the Regional development manager of Fair Trade Tourism, Netsai Sibanda
ANC Secretary General, Gwede Mantashe says the late SACP leader Chris Hani will be at the heart of the battle to save the ANC from self-destruction. He was speaking at an event to commemorate the 23rd of Hani's death. The event was attended by both members of the ANC alliance partners the ANC, Cosatu, the SACP and Sanco. Mantashe says Hani will be disappointed to see the ANC faced with so many challenges. Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Five people have been arrested in connection with a massacre of six family members in Ceza near uLundi in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The incident has shocked the community. Earlier this year, the area saw another killing of six people allegedly over the selling of cattle. Locals say they believe the latest incident was also linked to cattle theft. Vusi Khumalo visited the area and filed this report....
Protesters have set alight two houses belonging to a community leader in Masakona village outside Vuwani in Limpopo. This comes after protesting residents accused him of being in favour of a newly-demarcated municipality that will see the merger of Vuwani and Malamulele. Forty-three out of 57 voter's registration centres were opened in LIM-345, the interim name for Malamulele and Vuwani. Witness Tiva reports
Waste management company Pikitup confirms that the strike is finally over. The commission for conciliation, mediation and arbitration CCMA has also confirmed that it successfully facilitated the settlement agreement. All parties involved are committed to quickly dealing with the waste backlog. Bongi Gwala spoke to Pikitup's Spokesperson Jacky Mashapu....
- Credit ratings agencies and the threat of a potential downgrade for South Africa remain in the headlines, thanks to widely-reported comments by S&P last week. What were the main messages from them?
- You speak of rising debt-servicing costs in the event of a sovereign credit rating downgrade. How significant then is the announcement that came out on Friday that Treasury had successfully placed a global bond with international investors?
- So we understand that a focus on economic growth should be front of mind for every South African, but the SARB finds itself in a very tight spot with its inflation-targeting policy. So far this month we have already seen an increase in petrol prices and electricity costs, but it is food inflation that is really hurting. What should we make of the 34% increase in wheat import duty?
Deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a swipe at religious leaders who are criticising government, saying they should rather pray for the government. This week a delegation of church leaders refused to back down over calls for President Jacob Zuma to resign following the Nkandla scandal. Ramaphosa addressed a church service at Mahwelereng in Limpopo. He was in the area to encourage people to register to vote. Shibu Mamokgere filed this report...
The Public Protector has appeared before parliament for the first time after the Constitutional Court ruling that confirmed that her remedial actions are binding. Last year she received a hostile reception at the committee, especially from ANC members. Today opposition parties demanded that the committee apologise to her. But the ANC was adamant there was no need to apologise. Joseph Mosia reports...
Traditional leaders say they have partnered with different universities in the continent and abroad to ensure that all cultural practices are consistent with the constitution. This came out in their meeting with President Jacob Zuma in Pretoria, yesterday. The meeting was called to discuss the president's address to the National House of Traditional Leaders earlier this year. Ntebo Mokobo reports.
Vantage Gold Fields that owns Lily gold mine in Lows Creek near Barberton has been placed under business rescue. Vantage Gold Fields has been struggling to source funds to assist to drill a new shaft at Lilly gold mine that will help gain access to where its three workers have been trapped two months ago, following a collapse. Vusi Twala reports…
Trade union, Cosatu, has called on the City of Johanneburg's Municipal Manager to intervene in the Pikitup strike. More than 4-thousand SAMWU members downed tools five weeks ago demanding parity pay and the resignation of MD Amanda Nair amongst other things. Noma Bolani reports...
- Emerging markets snapped two days of losses after oil surged and minutes of last month's Federal Reserve meeting reaffirmed its gradual approach to raising interest rates
- Fed's Global Concern Signals Barriers to Next Rate Increase
- Thursday investment theme: The market has become hypersensitive to any sign of weakness in global economic growth
ANC secretary general, Gwede Mantashe says they are sending members of the NEC to meet with branches around the country to engage them on the Constitutional Court judgement on Nkandla. This follows a call by the Sefako Makgato branch in Johannesburg for President Jacob Zuma to step down or face disciplinary action. Bongi Gwala spoke to Secretary General of the African National Congress.
CIVIL organisations are planning mass mobilisation around the country to pressurise President Jacob Zuma to resign. The Unite Against Corruption movement led by some ANC veterans, lchurch leaders, activists, former judges and activists are pushing for President Zuma to be removed from office following a Constitutional Court judgement found that he failed to uphold respect and defend the Constitution. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
The next local government Elections will be held in 17 weeks' time. President Jacob Zuma has announced August the third as the date when local elections will take place. In his statement, the President also encouraged the youth who would be voting for the first time, to register for the local elections during IEC's registration weekend. Bongi Gwala spoke to the Chief Electoral Officer of the IEC, Mosotho Moepya
The city of Johannesburg says it cannot afford to pay ten thousands rand per worker. The South African Municipal Workers Union demands a salary adjustment of up to 10-thousand rand. They also demand that the MD of PIKITUP, Amanda Nair to be removed. The city also says even if they can agree on offer - the sanctions against employees who embarked on an illegal strike will remain. The strike has now entered its fifth week. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports...
- FOMC minutes
- The impact of food inflation on the consumer
- The impact of global growth on asset class returns
ANC veteran Mavuso Msimang has backed the initiative taken by the ANC's Sefako Makgatho branch in Johannesburg calling on President Jacob Zuma to step down or face a disciplinary action. This is as civil organisations are planning mass mobilisation around the country to pressure President Zuma to resign. The move follows Constitutional Court judgement found that he failed to uphold, respect and defend the Constitution. Tshepo Ikaneng reports...
The Reserve Bank says the only way to stop increasing prices is for them to continue raising interest rates. The bank says it is doing this in order to keep inflation in check. With interest rates, fuel and food going up, unions and employers are going to be faced with challenges when it comes to salary negotiations. Bongi Gwala spoke to Inside Labour columnist at Fin24 and City Press, Terry Bell.
- Asia's top private banks posted their first drop in assets under management
- Emerging-market stocks fell to a three-week low as declines in Taiwan and China offset gains elsewhere in Asia amid higher oil prices
- Is the Virgin America Name Worth Keeping?
Legal experts have dismissed President Jacob Zuma's interpretation of the constitutional court ruling. The presidency issued a statement on what it calls correction of media reports on last week's landmark ruling. It says the highest court of the land court did not find that he violated his oath of office. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports.
President Jacob Zuma has survived yet another attempt by opposition parties to have him removed from office. The ANC easily defeated the motion brought by DA leader Mmusi Maimane to have Zuma removed from office following the Constitutional Court finding that he had failed to uphold, defend and respect the Constitution. To unpack this Bongi Gwala spoke to policy and political analyst at UNISA Prof . Somadoda Fikeni
President Jacob Zuma has survived yet another attempt by opposition parties to have him removed from office. The ANC easily defeated the motion brought by DA leader Mmusi Maimane to have Zuma removed from office following the Constitutional Court finding that he had failed to uphold, defend and respect the Constitution. The ANC maintains that it accepts the President's apology and that he had in fact always stated that he was prepared to pay for the non-security upgrades at his Nkandla home. Joseph Mosia reports
TB suffers could soon have access to a so called ground-breaking drug Sirturo, also known as Bedaquiline. Researchers of this drug might be more readily available in the next few years. Bedaquiline is said to be the first of its kind to kill bacteria in a different way. Bongi Gwala spoke to Prof Harry Hausler, Chief Executive Officer of the TB/HIV Care Association
- The close link betweeen listed property and bonds
- European PMI numbers coming out today
- FOMC minutes coming out tonight
African People's Convention Leader Themba Godi has confirmed that he voted against the DA motion to remove president Jacob Zuma from office. All the opposition parties that supported the motion says they will approach the constitutional court to get clarity on section 89 of the constitution. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent report.............
The Financial Services Board says the Panama paper leaks will be scruitinised with the possibility of re-investigating the Fidentia missing funds. Curators managed to recover about 200million-rand of the one pont two billion rand that was misappropriated from the Lvings Hands Umbrella Trsut fund by the asset management company, Fidentia. The Panama records fingered Fidentia as having off shore accounts where millions are stashed. Thandiswa Mawu reports
Living at the hostel and surrounding areas has become a health hazard in Johannesburg because of the rubbish all over the city. Pikitup workers affiliated to municipal worker's union SAMWU have been on an illegal strike for more than a month and waste keeps piling up in and around the city. We visited the Denver Men's Hostel in Johannesburg to check the living conditions. Senior journalist Thabile Mbhele reports...
MP's are back to begin the second session of parliament after a two weeks' break. But a lot has happened in the meantime. The Constitutional Court has found that parliament had failed to carry out its duty to hold the executive to account regarding the Nkandla matter. So their first and only sitting for this week will include a debate on whether to remove the president from office. Joseph Mosia reports...
Young prostitutes are roaming the streets of Krugersdorp on Gauteng's West Rand and it doesn't appear as though anybody cares that hard core drug dealers and child traffickers are profiting from it. An SABC journalist was even held captive for two hours on Friday whilst investigating this story. But the reason for all of this might be due to allegations that certain police officers are working for Nigerian drug lords. Jacques Steenkamp reports
The City of Johannesburg says it is worried about the health implications of the on-going Pikitup strike. The strike enters its 4th week and has left many parts of the province in a mess that could soon be a huge health risk. About 4-thousand Pikitup workers and members of SA Municipal Workers' Union (Samwu) are still protesting for salary increament. Bongi Gwala spoke to the MEC of Health in Gauteng Qedani Mahlangu
- Asian stocks rose, following U.S. shares higher, as expectations for an immediate hike in U.S. interest rates remained low even after better-than-expected economic reports
- International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde rebuffed Greek government calls to replace top fund officials overseeing the country's bailout
- The Rand remains steady despite petrol price hike
National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete says parliament respects and appreciates the guidance which the Constitutional Court has given the National Assembly on how to deal with reports by Chapter Nine Institutions. Mbete, who was accompanied by NCOP chairperson Thandi Modise, briefed the media in Parliament on the implications of the Constitutional Court ruling on the Public Protector's report on Nkandla. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
The South African Communist Party Constitutional Court is calling for a decisive action after the Constitutional Court judgement on Nkandla. It says the judgement is a clear warning signal to the ANC, the alliance, and to the government. The alliance warns that if decisive action is not taken, the continuing loss of moral authority, political paralysis and fragmentation of the movement will continue. They will seek an urgent meeting with the officials of the ANC. Bongi Gwala spoke to the National Spokesperson of the South African Communist Party, Alex Mashilo
Political infighting among parties in Marikana near Rustenburg in the North West has resurfaced. This follows alleged confrontations between the African National Congress and Economic Freedom Fighters in the mining town. Since Friday, one person is alleged to have been shot, another stabbed several times and a vehicle torched. Lucas Mothibedi reports....
Young prostitutes are roaming the streets of Krugersdorp on Gauteng's West Rand and it doesn't appear as though anybody cares that hard core drug dealers and child traffickers are profiting from it. An SABC journalist was even held captive for two hours on Friday whilst investigating this story. But the reason for all of this might be due to allegations that certain police officers are working for Nigerian drug lords. Jacques Steenkamp reports...
The following story contains graphic description which may upset sensitive listeners, including children… Latest trends in child pornography are showing an increasing demand for home-produced content and pornography involving very young children. Experts have been looking at the challenges in dealing with the scourge of child pornography, with the Internet aiding in the dissemination of this illegal content. Minoshni Pillay reports...
Municipalities owing Eskom have been advised to pay their debts or have their electricity cut off. This emerged at a meeting in Kimberley between Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown and all Northern Cape district municipalities. According to Brown, 19 municipalities in the Northern Cape owe Eskom billions of rands. Mpho Lepedi has more..
As the ANC scrambles to take stock of the implications of yesterday's Constitutional Court judgment on the Nkandla saga, opposition parties are calling for President Jacob Zuma's head. The court found that President Zuma was in breach of his constitutional obligations in his handling of the Public Protector's report that recommended that he pay back the money spent on non-security upgrades at his private Nkandla home. The court also found that the national assembly's actions were inconsistent with its constitutional duty to perform hold the executive to account. The Constitutional Court gave President Zuma , just more than three months to pay back a portion of the money. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe filled this report on the political reactions to the judgement...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng says both the President and the National Assembly violated the Constitution in the way they handled the Nkandla matter. Delivering a unanimous judgment on the matter in the Constitutional Court, Mogoeng said the President failed to uphold, defend and protect the Constitution - by not complying with the Public Protector's report on upgrades at his Nkandla home
SABC chief operations officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng has called on BRICS member states to invest in each other's economies to facilitate growth. He was a keynote speaker at the opening of the frames media convention in Mumbai India. Motsoeneng has challenged the conference to support the media from developing nations. Tumaole Mohlaoli reports from India
South Africans should brace themselves for much tougher economic conditions ahead. This is as prices of goods and services continue on the upward trend. Economists say compounding this, is Eskom's electricity tariff hike of 9 point 4 per cent as well as the 30 cents increase in the fuel levy which will both come into effect tomorrow (01/04/16). They say although the rand has improved slightly the price of petrol is likely to go up by almost 86 cents per litre partly as a result of the expected increase in the fuel levy. Morafe Tabane has more on this...
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The residents of Bonteheuwel in Cape Town are living in fear as their community has turned into a war zone. At least five people have been killed in shoot-outs between rival gangs since the start of the Easter long weekend. Residents say they can't even go out of their houses for fear that they might be caught in the crossfire. Bongi Gwala spoke to the Bonteheuwel Chairperson of the Joint Peace Forum, Judy Kennedy
Minister of Finance Pravin Gordon says his legal team has advised him that the so called rogue unit at SA Revenue Services (SARS)was lawful. He was answering the Hawks questions regarding the alleged SARS "rogue" unit. He went to says the Sikhakhane findings got it all wrong as they mistaken reading the National Strategic Intelligence Act. Gordhan has been involved in a tense battle with the Hawks over the unit. To unpack this Bongi Gwala spoke to Political Analyst and Director at Centre for the Study of Democracy, Professor Steven Friedman
The Constitutional Court will today deliver judgment in arguably one of the most politically charged legal cases to rock the presidency. The Court is expected to seal the long standing debate on the powers of the Public Protector which have been a subject of debate since she released her report into the upgrades at President Jacob Zuma's private home in Nkandla. President Zuma put paid to the debate - when he made surprise concessions at the February hearing. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan looks back on the arguements
Friends of the student Activist Vusi Mahlangu are still shocked at his sudden disappearance. Mahlangu is a spokesperson for #OutsourcingMustFall. He was last seen leaving a friend's house in Mthatha on Tuesday morning. He was believed to be on his way to a meeting with outsourced workers at Walter Sisulu University. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to his friend Vuyo Mtonintshi...
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Gauteng government's new open tender system will help derail efforts by big and influential business executives to manipulate state procurement processes. He was addressing a gala dinner attended by Gauteng's senior government officials in Boksburg on the East Rand, last night. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
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EFF leader Julius Malema says his road to academic excellence was not an easy one. Malema was speaking after graduating at Unisa's main campus in Pretoria. He completed a BA degree in human and social studies specialising in political leadership and citizenship. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
The City of Johannesburg says disciplinary hearings are underway for about 4-thousand striking workers who failed to honour an ultimatum ordering them to go back to work. Striking workers have been charged with gross misconduct while others also have additional charges of attempted murder after Pikitup trucks were attacks. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to Councillor Matshidiso Mfikoe, who is a Member of the Mayoral Committee for Environment & Infrastructure Services in Johannesburg.
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The Democratic Alliance (DA) says tomorrow's (thursday 30 March) Constitutional Court ruling on the Nkandla matter will mark a seminal moment for South Africa's democracy. The party says it is optimistic that the Court will provide clarity on the matter and the powers of the Public Protector. Constitutional Law Expert at the University of Cape Town, Professor Pierre De Vos, says the Court cannot order impeachment.
Two children are in a critical but stable condition in the Edendale hospital after they were attacked by a baboon at their home at Progress Farm in Richmond near Pietermaritzburg. The farm owner had apparently warned that the baboons must not be harmed, after the family alerted him that a troop on the farm had been chasing children. The Office of the Premier says that as a result of the incident, they have discovered other families living in terrible conditions on farms in Richmond. They have asked the South African Human Rights Commission to urgently investigate the violation of human rights of families living on Progress Farm and in the surrounding areas. Bongi Gwala spoke to The KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Senzo Mchunu
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has called on the Human Rights Commission to investigate possible human rights violations after two children in Richmond at Phatheni in the KwaZulu Natal midlands were attacked by a baboon belonging to farmer in the area. A call has also been made for the department of Environmental Affairs to investigate whether the correct environmental laws were followed when troop of baboons were placed on the farm. The cousins - a six year boy and 10 year old girl - are in a critical but stable condition in hospital. S'khangiwe Mthiyane reports..
The current slowdown in the economy has seen more companies being liquidated and more people defaulting on their loan repayments. Economists say government needs to give the private sector space to participate more strongly in the economy in order to realise exponential growth and address the current challenges. Stats SA released data which showed that the number of liquidations increased by over 22 percent for the month of February. Morafe Tabane has more on this.
Violence broke out in Katlehong on the Gauteng East Rand where one person is reported to have been killed an foreign-owned shops looted. Police have confirmed that four foreign nationals aged between 20 and 27 have been arrested in connection with the shooting. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to Colonel Noxolo Kweza.
Preliminary statistics show road fatalities decreased by 46% during the Easter period this year. Transport Minister, Dipou Peters, says the huge decrease is due to rigorous public education campaigns to raise awareness about road safety, visible policing, the school holiday that fell over the two long weekends and the involvement of church and community leaders as well as celebrities. Liela Magnus reports
Government officials say traffic officers, as well as motorists who engage in bribery, will face the full might of the law. Two traffic officers were arrested in Gauteng for allegedly trying to solicit bribes from motorists. The first officer was arrested in Ekurhuleni on Thursday, the second one was arrested on Sunday in Dobsonville, Soweto. Neliswa Mavundla reports.
President Jacob Zuma's mission in the Middle East to woo trade and direct foreign investment to South Africa moved to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates yesterday. President Zuma met with Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports.
Today "Pik It Up" will commence with disciplinary hearings for its 4-thousand employees, who have defied two court interdicts. The workers embarked on a strike nearly two week ago. They are demanding a salary increase and the removal of their boss, Amanda Nair. Bongi Gwala SAMWU's Deputy Regional Secretary, Paul Tlhabang
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks which fell for the first time in three days and what to expect in new week on the JSE following the holidays
Grathel Motau, Chartered Accountant and Development Economist looks at; Foschini has acquired 100% of Whsitles, a UK company and President concludes visits to Saudi Arabia and UAE
A suicide bomber has killed at least 72 people outside a public park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore yesterday. The blast was in a large park in the south-west of the city, where many people had gathered for the close of Easter Celebration. Police told the BBC it appeared to be a suicide bomb. A Pakistan Taliban faction said it carried out the attack. The BBC's Shaimaa Khalil reports from Lahore.
There are growing concerns over kidnapping incidents in Limpopo. In the past few weeks, three people, including a mother and daughter, have been kidnapped and ransom demanded by kidnappers at Nirvana in Polokwane and Tzaneen. In the first incident, a 35 year old SARS employee, Anita Moosa, was kidnapped and three million rand ransom was demanded. In the second one, a mother and daughter were kidnapped in Tzaneen. They were later released. Jabulani Baloi reports
Security will be tight tomorrow when the troubled North West University (NWU) re-opens the Mafikeng campus . A number of buildings were recently set alight at the campus, allegedly by protesting students. The campus has been closed for more than a month due students' protests. Bongi Gwala speaks to Vice Chancellor Professor Dan Kgwadi
Sound political relations between South Africa and Saudi Arabia should translate into enhanced bilateral trade and investment flows. President Jacob Zuma was on a charm offensive to the oil rich nation urging its business people to invest in South Africa. He has also met with Saudi King Salman bin Abul Aziz. The president was accompanied by five Cabinet ministers and around 20 business people on his one day state visit to Riyadh. Ntebo Mokobo compiled this report
Residents of Louw's Creek near Barberton in Mpumalanga say economic activities have stopped in the area since the collapse at Lilly gold mine. Over 50 days have passed since three workers in a container fell into a sink hole when the mine caved in on the fifth of February this year. Vusi Twala reports
Martin Creamer is Creamer Media Publishing Editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at major steps South Afrixa is taking to boost its rail engineering capacity and platinum miners are heading for new pay talks.
Easter traffic has begun to heavily congest on major roads as holiday makers make their way to various destinations. The N1 North is one the most affected with thousands of Zion Christian Church members traveling to Moria, Limpopo for the Eater pilgrimage. Bongi Gwala speaks to spokesperson for the Roads and Traffic Management Corporation Simon Zwane and our reporter, Witness Tivha...
Waste management company Pikitup says their workers are still unable to collect waste due to severe intimidation. Two Pikitup trucks were shot at near Nasrec south of Johannesburg on Wednesday night. Angry workers affiliated to the worker's union Samwu have been on an illegal strike for two weeks over wages and allegations of misconduct against managing director, Amanda Nair. Bongi Gwala speaks to Pikitup spokesperson Jacky Mashupu...
- JSE remains under pressure as CPI comes in higher than expected year on year!!
- Emerging-market currencies and stocks fell for a second day as a drop in the oil price and more hawkishness from Federal Reserve officials damped a rally in developing-nation assets
- China's stocks fell the most in two weeks as the slowing economy and slumping commodity prices dragged down profits of some of the nation's largest companies including Petro China
More children are at risk of being infected with tuberculosis globally due to a shortage of the BCG vaccine. BCG is the only vaccine available to protect against the disease. However, its shortage poses a major threat to the lives of many children exposed to the disease globally, including in South Africa. As the international community marks World TB Day today (Thursday 24 March), pharmaceutical companies say they don't make a profit from producing the TB vaccine - hence the shortage. Senior Journalist Thabile Mbhele reports…
The number of learners in KwaZulu-Natal who have died after taking a form of Ecstasy known as "mercedes", has risen to seven. About 30 other youngsters have spent time in hospital, or are still receiving treatment after taking the drug at an end-of-term party at KwaMashu, north of Durban. The majority of the pupils are from Zeph Dhlomo High School in the township. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development has called on parents to keep a close eye on their children. Nhlanhla Nxele reports
The number of learners in KwaZulu-Natal who have died after taking a form of Ecstasy known as "mercedes", has risen to seven. About 30 other youngsters have spent time in hospital, or are still receiving treatment after taking the drug at an end-of-term party at KwaMashu, north of Durban. Bongi Gwala spoke to MEC of Social Development in KwaZulu Natal Weziwe Thusi…
President Zuma is in Lyon France co-chairing a UN Commission meeting with the French President François Hollande. He tell us about his meeting
President Jacob Zuma has broken his silence on his relationship with the Gupta family. Speaking with Dan Whitehead our correspondent in France, President Zuma said the ANC is attending to the matter. He added that the Gupta family has relations with many other people in the country.
President Jacob Zuma has broken his silence on his relationship with the Gupta family. Speaking with Dan Whitehead our correspondent in France, President Zuma said the ANC is attending to the matter. He added that the Gupta family has relations with many other people in the country...
Residents of Lavender Hill on the Cape Flats in the Western Cape have appealed for more police patrols in the area due to spiraling drug and gang-related crime. A high level police delegation led by National Police minister, Nathi Nhleko, interacted with residents during the launch of a community outreach programme yesterday. Berenice Moss reports....
- Big story was the significantly higher than expected CPI number pushed by higher food prices
- Oil trading a little lower on a resurgent dollar but gold not finding cheer
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC has been moving from one scandal to another. Responding to questions at the ANC professionals in Sandton, Ramaphosa admitted that it has been tough going for the organisation. Dealing with the issue of state capture Ramaphosa says the party is facing a defining moment. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC has been moving from one scandal to another. Responding to questions at the ANC professionals in Sandton, Ramaphosa admitted that it has been tough going for the organisation. Dealing with the issue of state capture Ramaphosa says the party is facing a defining moment. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
The Malaysian government has dispatched a team of investigators to Mossel Bay to recover a piece of debris thought to belong to an airline which vanished two years ago. Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 disappeared on March 8, 2014, with 239 people on board while flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. The piece of debris was found by an archaeologist while holidaying in Little Brak River on Monday. Sphiwe Hobasi
- Asian stocks retreated, after the regional benchmark index closed Tuesday at the highest level since January
- Global pressures weighed on the local markets yesterday, affecting the Rand's latest strength
- South African property owners lock in lease increases of 8%
Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Mlibo Qhoshiyane, says wool and meat production farmers in the remote rural areas of the province have a potential to play a pivotal role in the economic development of the province. Qhoboshiyane was speaking at the handing over of 120 superior genetic breeding animals to the emerging farmers of Mqanduli. Nkululeko Nyembezi filed this report
The office of the Public Protector has confirmed that they are seeking funding from the Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan to investigate President Jacob Zuma's association with the Gupta family. Last week the Dominican Order of Catholic priests approached Thuli Madonsela asking her to investigate the alleged involvement of the Gupta family in ministerial appointments. On the other hand the DA also lodged a complaint against President Zuma for allegedly violating the Executive Ethics Act. To elaborate further on this Bongi Gwala spoke to Oupa Segalwe, Senior Manager Communications at the Office of the Public Protector. Meanwhile, Mcebisi Ndletyana an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Johannesburg says the Guptas will not go down alone.
President Jacob Zuma is in Lyon in France to co-chair a high-level UN Commission focussed on creating millions of healthcare jobs in developing nations...The President will chair the Commission alongside French President Francois Hollande. Zuma says the Commission aims to address what he calls the "triple challenge" of "unemployment, poverty and inequality". Our correspondent Dan Whitehead reports from Lyon
The ANC in the Western Cape has bestowed a "Human Rights Legacy Honour" to former Rivonia Trialist, Denis Goldberg. Goldberg was tried alongside leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Govan Mbeki, Walter Sisulu, Ahmed Kathrada, Andrew Mlangeni and others during the Rivonia Trial. The event was held in Cape Town last night. Berenice Moss reports
The collapse in freelance editorial rates in South Africa is killing the practice of journalism. This is according to the Southern African Freelancers Association (Safrea). The Association says the rates being paid for editorial journalism in this country are not enough to sustain a career as a freelance journalist. For more Bongi Gwala spoke to the Executive Committee member at the Southern African Freelancers Association, Hagen Engler…
- Terror attacks in Brussels spur risk off in markets
- Fed speakers continue to point to a more hawkish view supporting the dollar but pushing bond yields higher
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Scores of workers affiliated to the National Transport Movement have downed tools at the Botshelo Mills in Delareyville in the North West. The company's operation which produces over 200-thousand tons of maize a year, has been affected since last Monday. Workers from various units including transport and maintenance, are demanding wage increases and benefits. Zebilon Maine reports
There has been international condemnation of the terror attacks that occurred in Brussels Tuesday. US President Barack Obama called for unity while European leaders pledged their support for Brussels and said they would unite to fight terrorism. The series of attacks left at least 34 people dead. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attacks amid many unanswered questions. Catherine Drew reports from London
The UN Secretary General says he draws encouragement from how far the world has come since the Sharpeville massacre in 1960 but believes much distance remains to be traveled to achieve equality for all. The UN observed the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action - considered the most comprehensive framework for international, regional and national actions against racism. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
- A rally in emerging-market assets paused after two Federal Reserve officials floated the possibility of a rate increase as soon as April
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Disagreements over Cuba's human rights record and Washington's trade embargo were the main issues that U.S. President Barack Obama and President Raul Castro discussed yesterday (monday). The two leaders held historic talks in Havana as the two countries took another stride away from Cold War-era animosity. Obama arrived in Cuba on Sunday for the first visit by a U.S. president in almost 90 years. To unpack the historic talks Bongi Gwala spoke to Associate Editor at the Daily Maverick Brookes Spector...
There are fears that the hand, foot and mouth disease outbreak has spread to rural parts of the Limpopo province. The disease, which is caused by the coxsackie virus and mostly affects children below the ages of fourteen, was first reported in Polokwane and the surrounding areas since mid February. The outbreak led to the early closure of some primary and pre-schools in Polokwane. Some parents at Ga-Sekgopo village, outside Modjadjiskloof, now say their children are showing signs of having contracted the disease. Pimani Baloyi reports....
Motorists, who have been refusing to settle their e-toll accounts, may soon be faced with civil summonses. The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) has issued a warning that sheriffs have started delivering the first set of civil summonses to individuals in Gauteng. Bongi Gwala spoke to SANRAL Spokesperson Vusi Mona and the Chairperson for OUTA, Wayne Duvenage
South Africa enjoys achievements in the transition from apartheid to democracy but there is still too little to celebrate. This is according to the Centre of Constitutional Rights as it commemorates Human Rights Day this year. The centre's legal officer Phephelaphi Dube says the country's achievement for equality is an elusive goal with a lot more room for improvement.
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Commissioner Lindiwe Mokate, of the South African Human Rights Commission, says fighting racism in the country is still going to take a while. Speaking on the sidelines of Human Rights Day at Durban's Moses Mabhida stadium, Mokate says people should take comfort in the fact that there are avenues available to them if they feel their rights have been violated. Dries Liebenberg compiled this report.
Political analyst Somadoda Fikeni has described the ANC's decision to dismiss an open letter from party veterans as a missed opportunity. Bongi Gwala speaks to Policy and political analyst Prof Somdoda Fikeni from UNISA.
The ANC has strongly condemned any attempt by business conglomerates to capture the state and influence awarding of multi-billion rand government contracts. This emerged at the end of the governing party's three-day National Executive Committee meeting, which was held in Irene south of Pretoria. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng
South Africans are being urged to use this year's Human Rights Day to confront the demons of racism in the country. The day commemorates the Sharpeville Massacre in which police shot and killed 69 people on March 21st in 1960. President Jacob Zuma will address the main Human Rights Day commemoration at the Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban later this morning. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports.
Cultural and traditional barriers were broken when the late former President Nelson Mandela's grandson, Chief Mandla Mandela went down the aisle with his Muslim wife, Rabie Clarke in Mvezo village near Mthatha in the Eastern Cape yesterday . Hundreds of invited well wishers in Islamic and isiXhosa traditional attires ululated and sang in celebration of their union, held privately in Madiba's birthplace. The media was not allowed to the wedding venue. Our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi was outside the premises and filed this report
Market analyst, Clive Ramathibela speaks to Dhashen Moodley on his reaction to the MPC decision and the retreating of the Asian Markets
President Jacob Zuma has denied being influenced by any external force including the Gupta family in the appointment of ministers and their deputies. He was responding to questions in the National Assembly . This was his first oral reply to the joint sitting of parliament for the year. The president has also rejected claims by former ANC MP Vytjie Mentor that she was offered a ministerial post by the Guptas while he was in the next room. Ntebo Mokobo reports
ANC General Secretary Gwede Mantashe says state capture by business is a threat to the party. He was speaking ahead of what is expected to be a heated National Executive Committee meeting that will discuss the issue. However, there is division over the Gupta family's influence on the governing party and the state. This comes amid revelations that the family offered ANC members cabinet posts and pressured ministers on key policy decisions to suit their business ventures. Senior Political reporter Angela Bolowana reports on the differing views within the ANC ahead of its highest decision making body's meeting between conferences-
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at the SARB hiking interests rates by 25 basis points, the rand to strengthen despite what's happening on the local political front and a rise in food prices
Police and protesting Zandspruit residents north-west of Johannesburg continued to clash as service delivery protests turned violent yesterday. Police fired rubber bullets and tear gas as residents of the informal settlement returned for a second consecutive day of protests. Beyers Naude Drive is still closed to traffic after residents blocked the roads with rocks and burning tyres. Jamaine Krige reports...
Highly-indebted South Africans are in for a tough year ahead. The Reserve Bank has increased the cost of borrowing by a cumulative 200 basis points since 2014 to tame rising inflation. The bank increased interest rates by 25 basis points to 7 percent yesterday (17/03/16). This has pushed the prime interest rate up to 10,5 percent. The bank's governor Lesetja Kganyago expects higher interest rates to help in slowing the pace of inflation. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
SACP congratulates Deputy Minister of Finance, Cde Mcebisi Jonas for affirming the values of revolutionary morality by refusing an offer to take over the position of Finance Minister he confirmed was made to him by members of the Gupta family. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the SACP's second Deputy secretary Solly Mapaila
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at yesterday’s announcement by the Deputy Minister of Finance, Mncebisi Jonas, which has added even more fuel to the fire that is raging in South Africa, ratings agency Moody's in South Africa and the US Fed announced last night that it will keep rates unchanged for now.
Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas has broken his silence and confirmed that the Gupta family offered him the post of Finance Minister. This was shortly before President Jacob Zuma fired then Minister Nhlanhla Nene late last year. Jonas says he has spoken out in accordance with his conscience, political values and the best traditions of the ANC. Joseph Mosia reports...
Some political parties in Parliament say they will approach the police to investigate an admission by deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas, that the Gupta family offered him the job of Finance Minister. After news broke in the Sunday papers, Jonas has not been silent on accusations that he was offered the position of then minister Nhanhla Nene...an offer that he had refused. Opposition parties have expressed concern over this matter. Zalene Merrington reports
Constitutional law scholar Processor Pier De vos says he doesn’t expect that there would be no any minutes of a meeting between Guptas and Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas. Professor De Vos adds that anybody who takes any unlawful that impairs the independence of government and the state can be charged for treason
Security has been tightened at the three mines in Barberton, Mpumalanga, where mine workers have embarked on a strike. The mine workers from Sheba, Fairview and the New Consort gold mines embarked on an unprotected strike accusing union leaders of colluding with mine management and failing to address their demands. Motsebi wa Monareng reports......
The Hawks have threatened action against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan. The investigative body says Gordhan missed two deadlines to respond to questions relating to the alleged rogue unit established at SARS while he was still commissioner. The unit was set up in 2007 to assist SARS with high-risk tax, customs and smuggling investigations. It is alleged that the unit was engaged in unauthorised surveillance. The latest salvo from the HAWKS comes after Gordhan criticised the leaking of a second letter to the media. Amos Phago compiled this report
Parliament has heard that lack of funds has put a halt on the development of the Moloto Rail Development Corridor. The project is aimed at developing a safe public rail infrastructure alongside the Moloto road between Pretoria and Mpumalanga, where scores of people are killed in road crashes every year. While the committee insisted that the rail project should be completed as soon as possible, they were told that the treasury will not release funds for it. Joseph Mosia reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at the Rand depreciation and the bond market giving insights into what to expect from the Moody's team arriving in SA today
A 14-year-old boy from Katlehong on Gauteng's East Rand is fighting for his life after he was shot following clashes between locals and foreign nationals. Bongani Msimango was shot in his genitals by a stray bullet on Saturday after the killing of a local man by Somali shopkeeper. It's alleged that the man had earlier bought stale chicken and was returning it to the shop when a fight broke out between him and shopkeepers. It resuted in widespread clashes. The situation is tense but calm. Ditaba Tsotetsi reports.
Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga says closing schools with small number of learners is the only solution for the Eastern Cape Education department to deal with the challenge of teacher shortages. Motshekga was speaking in a meeting with parents, principal and education stakeholders in Port Elizabeth's Northern Areas. The meeting follows a series of protests and closure of schools by parents over teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms. Mcebisi Ngqina reports...
A ground-breaking move is underway to ensure that the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) is made to do its work. With thousands of labour tenants being marginalised and evicted from their historic land, the Association for Rural Advancement (AFRA) has launched legal action to have a special master appointed to assist the department accelerate the implementation of the Labour Tenant Act of 1996. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports....
Factories at Mandeni on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast are still assessing the damage caused by last week's violent protests in the KwaSithebe Industrial Park. Some factories and businesses re-opened on Monday after a week long shutdown. The protests ended after the ANC in the province announced on Friday that it was recalling its PR councillor Bheki Magwaza, who'd been nominated to stand in the upcoming local government elections. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Interested parties have met the announcement by a Texas based oil and gas company to explore millions of hectares of land in northern KwaZulu-Natal, with frustration and mistrust. Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration South Africa is applying to explore the possibility of mineral rich resources in parts of northern KwaZulu- Natal. But, some affected parties are questioning the long term possibilities of potential mineral discoveries. Minoshni Pillay reports...
Gauteng police say four foreign nationals have been arrested following a clash with residents of the Mandela informal settlement near Katlehong in Ekurhuleni. They have confirmed that one person has been killed and several others, including five foreign nationals, have been wounded. Shops belonging to foreign nationals have also been looted. Neliswa Mavundla reports
eThekwini residents in KwaZulu-Natal will soon be experiencing water reductions. The eThekwini Municipality is planning to implement water reductions to force residents to save as much as 15 percent. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of eThekwini Water & Sanitation Unit, is Ednick Msweli
Vantage Gold has finally found a way to reach the three miners trapped underground at the Lily Mine in Mpumalanga. However this plan will take six months to be complete. Solomon Nyerenda, Pretty Nkambule and Yvonne Mnisi were trapped underground over a month ago when the container they were working in collapsed into an 80 metre deep sinkhole. Rescue operations at the mine were suspended when the ground was found to be too unstable to continue with operations. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane...
Disabled children may be able to attend mainstream schools by 2021. During the Disability Summit currently taking place in Centurion north of Johannesburg, President Jacob Zuma has called for an end to the stereotyping and segregation of children living with disabilities. The summit is working on the practical implementation of the white paper on the rights of persons with disabilities. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the Self Help Association of Paraplegics, Muzi Nkosi...
- Old Mutual results coming out today
- Measures taken by the ECB to support growth
- Challenge facing listed property funds
Political parties have widely condemned the release on parole of the murderer of SACP and ANC struggle stalwart, Chris Hani. Janusz Walus was sentenced to death for the 1993 assassination of the much-loved and popular Hani, but it was later commuted to life. He was sentenced with his accomplice Clive Derb- Lewis who was released on medical parole last year. Some political parties are calling for his immediate deportation while others say it's time to review the whole parole system. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Former President Kgalema Motlanthe has warned that any decision by global ratings agencies to downgrade the country's sovereign rate to a junk status will be detrimental to the poor and vulnerable communities. Motlanthe was addressing the ANC Johannesburg Region members in Braamfontein last night. This comes after the rating agency Moody's said it had placed South Africa's long and short term ratings on review for a possible downgrade. During its visit next week, Moody's will want to determine if the likelihood of a decline in the country's economic strength will be reversed in the medium term. Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report..
ANC Chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal Sihle Zikalala has called on party members to follow internal processes to lodge their grievances. He addressed the media at Mandeni on the north coast after a failed meeting with angry community members. The community refused to be addressed by the ANC leaders, demanding the release of more than 120 people arrested in connection with violent protests that saw six factories and several trucks set on fire in the area. Last night a clothing factory in the area was set alight as residents continue with their protest. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports.
Parliament's Joint Ethics Committee chairperson has rejected the DA's claims that the committee is an ANC hit squad targeting opposition MPs. Nine MPs have already been informed about the outcome of investigations into breaches of Parliament's Ethical Code of Conduct. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports...........
The parents of 16-year-old Franziska Blochliger have expressed shock at the state of her body after viewing it at a Cape Town mortuary. Blochliger's body was found shortly after she was reported missing while jogging in the Tokai Forest in the Southern Peninsula on Monday. Police say it appears she was strangled. Three people have been taken in for questioning. Lynne Arendse reports ..
The Gauteng government has vowed to spend less on catering, travel, accommodation and telecommunications in an effort to cut costs. This is in line with Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's call for all spheres of government to implement cost cutting measures. The province will however continue with massive investments on infrastructure to boost economic growth. It will spend 41-billion rand over the next three years to build roads, hospitals, clinics and schools to improve the delivery of basic services. Gauteng Finance MEC Barbara Creecy presented her 2016/17 budget in the legislature in Johannesburg yesterday (tuesday 8 March). Wisani Makhubele reports.
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan says the review by ratings agency Moody's comes about because of serious questions they have about he South African economy. Moody's has placed South Africa's rating of Baa2-negative on review for downgrade, hours before Gordhan goes to the United States on the second leg of his investor roadshow. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Gordhan.
All political parties in the National Assembly who took part in the debate spoke out against racism. This was during the debate on racial tension on university campuses. The blame game was however the order of the day. Lulama Matya reports
On Trends Watch today:
Stories developing on social media: * A shooting in Sydney Australia * Recap of the Democratic debate: Clinton and Sanders battle over key progressive issues
On the SABC LIVE blog which is on the top left of the home page some interesting stories: * Zuma meets KZN Izinduna- the headman, to resolve salary dispute * Twenty Cycle Tour participants hospitalised, some admitted for heart attacks others collision related injuries.
Top searched topics on google: * Mother’s Day 2016 and the Cape Town Cycle Tour 2016
Twitter: * Nancy Reagan * Chiefs * Rabada | Faf Du Plesis
The Independent Electoral Commission says the voter registration weekend was a success. By yesterday about a million people had visited polling stations around the country to register to vote in this year's upcoming Local Government Elections.
South Africa's human rights record is reviewed by the United Nations for the first time, today. According to the UN, South Africa submitted a report to the committee on the implementations of its human rights obligations. Non-governmental organisations have also sent report for consideration. Last month, Right2Know Campaign, Privacy International, and the Association for Progressive Communications submitted a joint report on surveillance and privacy issues in South Africa.
South Africa's human rights record is reviewed by the United Nations for the first time, today. According to the UN, South Africa submitted a report to the committee on the implementations of its human rights obligations. Non-governmental organisations have also sent report for consideration. Last month, Right2Know Campaign, Privacy International, and the Association for Progressive Communications submitted a joint report on surveillance and privacy issues in South Africa. For more on this we're now joined on the line by R2K National Spokesperson Murray Hunter.
The IEC was prevented from conducting voter registration in the Vuwani area outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo. The protesting residents blockaded the roads and set alight a school and a spaza shop at Masakona village. Residents are opposed to the inclusion of their area in the newly planned municipality which also encompasses the Malamulele area. Our reporter Jabulani Baloyi reports
The community of ward 13, of the Abaqulusi Municipality in northern KwaZulu-Natal, remains confused about changes brought by the demarcation of municipal boundaries. Some voters who had been part of ward 13 have now been moved to ward 11. Other eligible voters have also been moved to new voting stations. The Independent Electoral Commission in KwaZulu-Natal says changes brought by the demarcation process will only affect the 2016 Local Government Elections. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
President Jacob Zuma will be on a two day state visit to Nigeria this week to strengthen political and economic relations. Relations between Africa's economic power houses have not been easy with the 2014 xenophobic attacks which led to the withdrawal of Nigeria's ambassador to Pretoria. The frosty relations were again tested when TB Joshua's church building collapse in Nigeria left 84 South Africans dead. Also with South Africa's MTN facising difficulties in Nigeria. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports
The DA and Independent Candidates in the Potchefstrooms beleaguered Tlokwe Local Municipality in the North West have lambasted the Independent Electoral Commission for its inconsistency in implementing the ruling of the Constitutional Court regarding verifying voters' residential addresses. They maintain the IEC is unable to meet its electoral obligations by continuing to function in the same manner that led to the postponement of the Tlokwe by-elections. Sentleeng Lehihi reports
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks, BHP Billiton Ltd.'s credit rating was cut two levels by Moody's Investors Service and the JSE reaches highs last seen in October 2015 as mining company continue their rally on the back slightly stronger commodity prices
South Africa's suspension from the African Growth and Opportunity Act is to be lifted. This after the arrival of the first US frozen chicken in South Africa last week. Minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies says the US Trade Representative, Michael Froman, will recommend that President Barak Obama lifts the suspension. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Trade and Industry Minister Davies
The drilling of a second escape route at Lily Mine in Mpumalanga is said to be complete. A team of experts is now assessing whether it is safe to resume the search for three workers inside a container underground. Three miners have been trapped underground following a collapse at the mine almost last month. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Lily Mine CEO Coetze Ziestman
The Constitutional Court has dismissed paralympian Oscar Pistorius' application for leave to appeal against his murder conviction. Pistorius is convicted of murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in February 2013. He is expected to appear in the High Court in Pretoria for sentencing proceedings next month. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Criminal Law Expert with the Bridge Group , Advocate Mannie Witz to unpack the implications of this developments
Grathel Motau, Chartered Accountant and Development Economist looks at MTN which released its results yesterday, amidst the outstanding fine with the Nigerian regulator and the new Development Bank will open its doors in South Africa from next month.
Automobile Association says it has received a number of queries regarding problems with changes in the renewal of vehicle license discs. The association says the problems are that motorists are not receiving license renewal letters. Claims that are refuted by the department of transport. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to AA Layton Beard
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan says government and business will meet rating agencies and investors in an international roadshow planned for next week. Gordhan says the aim of the roadshow is to address some of the concerns raised by rating agencies and investors about South Africa. The move is seen as an effort by the country to maintain its investment rating and to avoid a junk status. Gordhan was speaking at the Deloitte Dialogue, attended by top business executives. Tshepo Mongoai reports
Former ANC Chief Whip Stone Sizani has been redeployed as the new South Africa's ambassador to Germany. This follows his resignation as Member of Parliament with immediate effect. Stone Sizani has been ANC Chief Whip since 2013 when he took over from Mathole Motshekga. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to ANC's Secretary General, Gwede Mantashe
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at emerging-market stocks that rose for a fifth day in this year's longest rally, and inflows boosted currencies after U.S. data beat estimates and on optimism that China is working to regain investors' confidence, Moody's Investors Service cut its credit-rating outlook on China's largest phone company and its biggest banks after doing the same to the country's government and this week's investment theme is Inequality Is Shaping U.S. Electoral Politics
Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko has defended the probe by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, into the South African Revenue Services. The Hawks had sent Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan a list of questions on the existence of a so-called rogue unit. It's been called a witch-hunt against Gordhan in political circles. Nhleko told reporters at Parliament the investigation is not directed at any specific individuals, but is conducted on the basis of prima-facie evidence. Abongwe Kobokana filed this report
The independence of the National Prosecution Authority cannot be trumped for the pursuit of an individual. That was the crux of the NPA argument at the High Court in Pretoria yesterday, as it defended former head Mokotedi Mpshe's decision to drop corruption charges against President Jacob Zuma. Zuma's legal counsel argued that there was conspiracy around the timing of the indictment- aimed at deciding the political future of this country. They are opposing the DA's application for a review of that 2009 decision, Deputy Political Editor Mahlatse Gallens reports
Service delivery protesters at Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape blocked the R61 road with burning tyres and debris, last night. They also ordered a truck driver to block the road with his vehicle. They are demanding proper road infrastructure, RDP houses and clean water in several villages. Two police officers were injured when an Nyala armoured car overturned during the confrontation. Nkululeko Nyembezi was there and filed this report
Economists say April will bring further financial woes for already struggling consumers. Government has announced an increase in several administered prices to be effected at the beginning of next month. Some companies will also be hiking their prices then. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
The grain producing sector has warned South Africans to brace themselves for higher food costs. More than 300 farmers from all over South Africa and 200 role players in the sector are attending a two-day conference at Nampo Park outside Bothaville in the Free State. The country is currently experiencing the worst drought in decades. Delegates at the conference have discussed financial options to assist grain farmers survive the next two seasons. CEO of Grain SA, Jannie de Villiers, says the import of especially yellow maize is an ongoing process because of two drought seasons in a row. Maryna van Wyk reports....
Grathel Motau, Chartered Accountant and Development Economist looks at the SARS and Finance Minister war which continues, Lonmin announced fewer retrenchment than originally anticipated and Clover is to exit the Nigerian market citing the unavailability of foreign currency as one of the key reasons
The woman once seen as the successor to President Robert Mugabe has launched an opposition party yesterday Joice Mujuru, ending months of speculation, announced herself as president of Zimbabwe People First. She is hoping to succeed where other opposition parties have failed in unseating the ruling Zanu PF party in power since 1980. Shingai Nyoka reports
The NPA says there was a political conspiracy in the prosecution of President Jacob Zuma, with former Scorpions head Leonard McCarthy at the helm of it. The Prosecuting Authority also conceded there is no evidence that former President Thabo Mbeki knew about the plot. The NPA will continue with arguments in the hearing on the DA's application for a review of the 2009 decision to drop corruption charges against President Zuma. The DA says the decision was irrational - but the NPA maintained it was too politically tainted to continue. Deputy Political editor Mahlatse Gallens was in court and filed this report
The ANC has defeated the DA's vote of no-confidence in President Jacob Zuma in the National Assembly. The party has also vowed that no such motions will ever succeed in future. Joseph Mosia reports
SARS has labelled reports that Commissioner Tom Moyane introduced investigations into an alleged rogue unit created by Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan when he ran SARS, as lies. The revenue service says the current operating model at SARS was not instituted by Commissioner Moyane but by their previous acting Commissioner, Ivan Pillay. SARS also issued a warning against any suggestion that it could be leaking confidential information to the media. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SARS Group Executive Employee Relations, Luther Lebelo.
The SRC at the University of the Free State has boycotted a prayer service and march for peace held on the main campus in Bloemfontein. The student leadership says issues of transformation have not been properly addressed, and for this reason they decided not to attend. The march follows a week of sometimes violent protests that led to students vandalising university property. Thabiso Radebe reports
Barclays Africa CEO Maria Ramos says the bank will ensure that a change in shareholding in the company brings a satisfactory outcome for all stakeholders. Barclays PLC which owns sixty percent of Barclays Africa, the owners of Absa bank, announced its decision to reduce its stake in the African operation. Ramos says Barclays Africa's strategy will remain the same despite a change in shareholding. Tshepo Mongoai reports.
Grathel Motau, Chartered Accountant and Development Economist looks at Nersa's decision to granted Eskom an electricity tariffs hike of 9.4%, GDP growth figures released by StatsSA marginally higher than expected and Barclays Plc finally announced that it will exit its majority stake over the next 2 years.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which are mostly high, Barclays Plc Chief Executive Officer Jes Staley, poised to announce the fate of the lender's African business, must convince investors he can improve the investment bank's profits just as slumping trading revenue batters the industry and what to expect from the GDP numbers.
Government is working on normalizing security issues at various universities in the country. Higher Education Minister and Police Minister Nathi Nhleko have met to find a solution to violent campus protests and the destruction of property. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande
Grathel Motau, Chartered Accountant and Development Economist looks at GDP figures for the 4th quarter which are expected to be released today, the Presidency issued another statement regarding the feud between the Minister of Finance and SARS Commissioner and SA recorded a trade deficit in January, after a surplus in December
Grathel Motau, Chartered Accountant and Development Economist looks at GDP figures for the 4th quarter which are expected to be released today, the Presidency issued another statement regarding the feud between the Minister of Finance and SARS Commissioner and SA recorded a trade deficit in January, after a surplus in December
The Office of the ANC Chief Whip says the call for motion of no confidence against President Jacob Zuma is nothing but a baseless tactic to divert attention from the racism scandals the party has been experiencing. Sakina speaks to Moloto Mothapo from the ANC's Office of the Chief Whip.
Democratic Alliance's leader, Mmusi Maimane, does not want all Ministers and their Deputies to vote after a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma has been debated. He believes this will result in a conflict of interest. The no confidence motion is expected to be heard in parliament today. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the DA's Member of Parliament and Chief Whip, John Steenhuisen.
A number of South Africans are falling through the cracks as there is no policy in place to deal with statelessness. They are unable to prove their citizenship and risk deportation, sometimes on a whim. Today we look at the sad story of Alpha Mntambo, a Zulu speaking man who grew up in South Africa but who was deported to Zimbabwe where he is now a stranger. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter Candice Nolan reports
Counsel representing the former wife of the late president Nelson Mandela, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, has presented their arguments in the Mthatha High Court on her claim to the house and land at Qunu outside Mthatha. She contends that she's still the rightful owner of the site in terms of the customary law. Senior Counsel, Patrick Mtshaulana argued that their divorce, which dissolved the civil marriage was only done through common law and the customary law marriage is therefore still in existence. Nkululeko Nyembezi was in court and filed this report
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande is enaging with the Vice Chancellor of University of Pretoria Cheryl de la Ray, Afri Forum as well as other various student leaders to discuss an urgent solution the on-going racial tensions at the university. This comes after students clashed over opposing views on the university's language policy. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Afri Forum's Youth national spokesman Ian Cameron and Naledi Chirwa who is the EFF Student Command National Legal and Transformation Officer
More details emerged regarding the alleged spat between the Finance Minister and SARS Commissioner. Could this have implications to country? And Braclays has announced its possible sale of its stake in ABSA. What will the this mean for SA and for Africa?
- Emerging-market stocks and currencies were set to decline for a fourth month as Chinese equities extended a rout and crude oil slumped. 2.Asian stocks were a mixed bag after Group of 20 finance chiefs made only vague commitments to spur growth at a Shanghai meeting 3.What contributed to the recent Rand slump
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on President Jacob Zuma to appoint a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the allegations around the so-called SARS "rogue unit". This follows reports that the Hawks has sent questions to Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan four days before his Budget speech and that he was under investigation by the unit. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Hawks Spokesperson, brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi...
Pan Africanist Congress leader in Parliament, Luthando Mbinda, says Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe would not be proud of his party's current state characterised by divisions. Mbinda has been speaking at the 38th anniversary of Sobukwe's death at the University of Fort Hare in Alice, in the Eastern Cape. Sobukwe was the founder of the PAC and died of cancer in 1978 at the age of 54 in Kimberley. Yanga Funani re
Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimade has called for patients on the issue of transformation at institutions of higher learning in this country. He says the changes students are calling for will not happen overnight.
All academic activity and administrative services are set to resume at the main and south campuses of the University of Free State in Bloemfontein this morning. ( Monday 29/02/2016) This after a week long shutdown that led to violent protests -resulting in twenty students being arrested. The university management says it expects students to return to class today. Thabiso Radebe reports..
After four days of searching, the body of six year old Angel Sibanda was found yesterday morning in the Jukskei River north of Johannesburg. Sibanda went missing on Thursday morning after flash floods swept her away from her home in Diepsloot. Jamaine Krige reports
The world is waiting to see who the next FIFA president will be, when elections are held in Zurich, Switzerland today. Prominent countries have been voicing their support for different candidates. Jack Parrock reports from Moscow about where Russian support lies
Leaders of workers union AMCU at Lily Gold Mine near Barberton in Mpumalanga have refused to divulge the outcome of the meeting that was called earlier yesterday. This comes after concerns from the employees that they could lose their jobs since part of the mine caved in with three workers twenty days ago. Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi and Solomon Nyerenda remain trapped underground at the. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports
Several University of the Free State students have been arrested. This follows student protests at the university's Bloemfontein campus. The angry students demand among other things the scrapping of outsourcing and removal of Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jonathan Jansen. Thabiso Radebe reports.
The High Court in Johannesburg is yet to set a date to hear Radovan Krejcir's application for bail and leave to appeal his conviction and 35-years sentence. The Czech fugitive and five co-accused were expected to bring their applications yesterday (Wednesday). However, the court was presented with numerous challenges forcing a postponment for a date that will still be determined. Krejcir was sentenced to 35-years imprisonment for intent to deal with drugs, attempted murder and kidnapping. Noma Bolani reports.
Political parties have largely welcomed Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's budget speech. Most saying the Minister did his best with the little he had. Gordhan presented a one-point-four trillion rand budget amid fears that the country could be downgraded further by international ratings agencies. Joseph Mosia reports.
The situation at the North West University's Mahikeng Campus remains calm but tense following a clash between the students and the Security personnel at the university. Students disrupted the inauguration ceremony of the new Student Representative Council appointed by the University Management. Shorts and teargas as well as live ammunition were fired at the students. A large Police contingency was called to beef-up the University security. The university had earlier disbanded the former SRC led by an EFF student command. Zebilon Maine reports...
Lectures University of the Free State remain suspended following further disruptions on the main in Bloemfontein . In a statement, the management said it is expecting that lectures will resume next Monday. Meanwhile, the Solidarity trade union insists that the university take a pro-active steps to ensure the safety of its members at the university.Thabiso Radebe reports
Continued protests at different universities across the country have resulted in the suspension of academic activities in some of the universities. Workers and students at different universities are protesting against outsourcing and demand for language transformation. Last year during the Fees Must Fall campaigns by students, the Council on Higher Education (CHE), which is the custodian of quality in higher education and advisor to the minister, expressed its view that protests by the students have been given genuine and committed attention by university leaders, but was that enough? Now that we see more protests at our universities. To answer this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chief Executive Officer at the Council on Higher Education of South Africa, Prof Narend Baijnath....
The Free Market Foundation wants some sections of the labour law dealing with the bargaining councils be rendered unconstitutional. The foundation has approached the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria to have section 32 of the Labour Relations Act be suspended. The unions have lambasted this application saying the motive is to advance the interests of capitalists while exploiting workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Free Market Foundation Director, Leon Louw and COSATU General Secretary Bheki Ntshalintsali.
- Global Stock Slump Deepens in Asia as some portfolio managers opt for profit taking
- Emerging-market stocks and currencies fell for a second day as oil extended declines and investors shunned riskier assets
- What does business want to hear from the Minister of Finance on the budget speech!!
The Black Sash- a civil society organisation says they waiting with bated breath for what the Minister of Finance Pravin Gordan will announce at this year's budget speech, later today. Black Sash's National Advocacy Manager, Elroy Paulus says his organisation is hoping that government will protect the poor from the current difficult economic times.
Passanger Rail Agency- PRASA says it is working to rid itself of the legacy of its former CEO Lucky Montana. This as Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts asked questions about the agency's management practices and board oversight. The Auditor General found among other things that PRASA had incurred fruitless and wasteful expenditure to the value of more than 550 million rand. Worse was when Transport Minister, Dipuo Peters told parliament she had never met PRASA's Chief Financial Officer. Joseph Mosia reports..
University Rector Free State, Jonathan Jansen says the university will deal with incidents of violence internally. Protesting students and workers clashed with spectators during a varsity rugby cup game, when they invaded the pitch and disrupted the match. The university has condemned the attack on protestors and at the same time did not condone the disruption of rugby activities. Konelo Lekhafola reports
Public protector Public Protector Thuli Madonsela says it a major concern that the post office moved to Lavish offices in Centurion at a higher rental. This happened , at a time when it was experiencing financial constraints. When investigating allegations of maladministration and corruption related to improper conduct in the leasing of the Eco Point Office Park, she discovered that the motivation for the relocation was doctored. Madonsela says the relationship between a key Post office official behind the move and centurion Vision Development, owners of the building, was poisoned. Morafe Tabane compiled this report
National Organiser of the Socialist Youth Movement at the University of the Free State, Itumeleng Lecheko, has blamed the rector Professor Jonathan Jansen for the protest on the Bloemfontein campus. Security has been tightened on the university's Bloemfontein campus where lectures have been suspended in the wake of workers' protests the workers who are being supported by students are demanding an end to outsourcing at the institution. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Organiser of the Socialist Youth Movement at the University of the Free State, Itumeleng Lecheko
- Emerging-market stocks retreated from a six-week high as Chinese equities fell after the nation's central bank weakened the yuan's fixing and crude oil resumed its decline
- BHP Billiton Ltd. made a larger-than-expected cut to its dividend, lowering the payout for the first time in 15 years
- Scientist provide data to prove that India has worse polluted air than China!
Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director at the Centre for Study of Democracy at Rhodes University and the University of Johannesburg, Professor Steven Friedman...
Freedom Front Plus Member of Parliament Corné Mulder calls on "#EFF Fascists" who have put universities under siege to be crush them. Mulder says he is not inciting violence. He asks "if there is an institutions tha tis out there trying to destroy our democracy, should that person be allowed to. Mr Mulder Spoke To AM Live anchor Sakina Kamwendo.
- Risk off returns as China adjusts daily yuan fixing lower
- Oil markets watching outcome of meetings to inform output cap
- Rand facing resistance as much optimism built in around budget
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says the Tlokwe by-elections in the North West province will go ahead as planned, despite the court application by independent candidates seeking the elections to be postponed. More than a thousand people are expected to vote today with special votes ahead of tomorrow's by-elections in seven wards. Voting stations will open at eight this morning and close at five in the evening for the special votes. Itumeleng Kgajane reports
Zimbabwe president, Robert Mugabe turned 92 years old yesterday. He spent the day with close family, ahead of a huge public bash said to cost eight hundrend thousand dollars or 12 million rand. The bash is planned for the coming weekend. This year's birthday is significant in more ways than one as Shingai Nyoka reports
OutsourcingMustFall committee at the Tshwane University of Technology say they will continue with their strike action should management not adhere to their demands. The protesting workers and students want the university to terminate contracts of service providers and do away with outsourcing. The also demand that those workers who were fired for taking part in the protest be reinstated. The protest action has been taking place since the begining of the year. We are now joined on the line by. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to spokesperson for Hashtag OutsourcingMustFall, Mametlwe Sebei
Market Analist looks at Asian stocks as they fell, after the biggest weekly rally in four years, as oil held declines and a stronger yen weighed on Japanese shares, Emerging-market stocks extended a weekly advance as oil rebounded and investors speculated that the new head of China's securities regulator will take measures to bolster the world's second-largest equity market and previews the State of the Province Address by Gauteng Premier David Makhura
University of Pretoria students are planning a mass protest action outside the Pretoria Magistrate's court, this morning. The march is in support of the arrested student who are to appear before the court. Last week Pretoria University students went on a rampage forcing the university to suspend classes and 27 students were arrested. Sakina Kamwendo Nobungcwele Mbem who is the member of the SRC at the University of Pretoria
At least a 12 people= have been killed by lightning in KwaZulu-Natal in less than two weeks. In the latest incidents two teenagers were struck by lightning at Umhlabuyalingana while a 26 year old man suffered the same fate in Umzimkhulu. More than 80 households have been destroyed by the storm at Umzimkhulu area. Fanele Mhlongo reports
Management of the Lily Gold Mine near Barberton in Mpumalanga has stressed that the search for its three staff members remains a rescue operation. Meanwhile, drilling operations at the mine are still suspended. Efforts to create an alternative exit route started on Saturday. The staff members have been trapped underground for more than two weeks. The mine's spokesperson Coetzee Zietsman says Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane believes the search should not yet be classified as a recovery operation because of its sensitivity.
Mohammed Nalla from Nedbank Capital looks at Pravin Gordhan's crucial budget speech this week, US inflation rises more than expected in January, will this influence rates domestically and Business leaders warn a British exit from the European Union would deter investment in the UK and threaten jobs
AgriSA Deputy Executive Director, Christo van der Rheede, and his colleagues have come up with a plan to save cattle from starvation. Van der Rheede is calling for people to donate their cut grass to their initiative called Hope Grass Project. He says if we don't help farmers save their cattle's the country will face high red meat prices. South Africa's worst drought in decades has caused acute water shortages and devastated crops and grazing.
- China has foreign exchange reserves that most other countries can only dream about, but it has declined quite a lot in recent times. Is this just due to capital outflows?
- Staying in China, their latest consumer inflation was reported to be one of the highest numbers in recent times. Is this a good or a bad thing?
- So with all this volatility and uncertainty around the Chinese economy and Chinese capital markets, does this mean that investment in Chinese equities should be avoided?
Vote counting is underway in Uganda. Thousands of voters filled polling stations for the presidential and parliamentary elections. Seven candidates are attempting to remove President Yoweri Musevini who has been in power for thirty years. Leon Ssenyange reports from Kampala in Uganda.
AfriForum says it intends to hold Government responsible for the misappropriation of allocated tax money. The organisation has launched a campaign - #waarvoorbetaalons? or #WhatAreWePayingFor? - which requests members of the public to add their names to the official letter that AfriForum wants to submit to the National Treasury. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AfriForum's National Campaign Co-ordinator, Monique Taute…
The Ministry of Finance says the 2015 Tax Laws Amendment Act provisions relating to retirement will come into force on 1 March 2016. However, the annuitisation requirement for provident funds will be postponed to the first of March 2018. But some tax experts are concerned that the delays will hit consumers in the long-term. To explain the implications of this latest development, Sakina Kamwendo spoket to the Director of Tax Practice at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, Ruaan van Eeden...
The ANC will take its anti-racism march to the seat of government - the Union Buildings in Pretoria later this morning. Scores of party members led by Secretary General, Gwede Mantashe will march for unity, non-racialism and democracy. The group will hand over a memorandum to president Jacob Zuma. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
A special drilling machine is expected to arrive at the Lily Gold Mine in Low's creek near Barberton in Mpumalanga. Mine authorities say small buildings have to be removed from the designated new drill site and a flat surface must also be prepared for the new drill. Motsebi wa Monareng reports
- It seems like there is finally some much-needed relief coming from the Rand, which strengthened quite strongly against all the major currencies yesterday. Who or what do we have to thank for this?
- On the flip side of the strong rand was a rising oil price though. Do these two factors just cancel each other out?
- Ahead of the budget next week, there was confirmation yesterday that some aspects of the retirement reform have once again been postponed. What is the implication of this?
President Jacob Zuma's parliamentary reply continued his focus on the economy. Addressing members of parliament after two days of parliament reflecting on the State of the Nation Address, Zuma emphasised that the National Development Plan remained the foundation of government's plan. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports....
Prices for private hospital care in South African rank among the most expensive and affordable in the world. Private hospitals and specialists are the main drivers of these high prices which increase more than inflation each year. These are some of the findings of a study conducted by the World Health Organisation and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, presented at the Competition Commission's Health Market Inquiry in Pretoria. The Commission is conducting a market inquiry in the private healthcare sector in the country. Senior Health journalist Thabile Mbhele reports.
- Let's start in Japan. Despite some significant stimulus by the Bank of Japan over the last year, there are growing signs that the Japanese economy is battling. How do you think Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will react to this?
- We tend to focus a lot on Chinese economic growth and the Chinese stock market, but what is the state of China's corporate sector, and in particular, it's banks?
- But of course there's more to Asia than Japan and China, and the rise of India should not be underestimated. Where do they find themselves in the Asian "tug-of-war"?
The Angel's Ministry Church led by the Mancoba family in Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape says the Holy Spirit is superior to the constitution of the country. They told a delegation led by Social Development MEC, Nancy Sihlwayi that it will never close down. Government officials have been on a fact finding mission at the church after 18 children of school going age were rescued on Tuesday. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
The situation at the University of Cape Town following violence over accommodation shortages, has stabilized. Students allegedly set fire to a bus and paintings on campus. The Vice Chancellor's office was also petrol bombed. The Vice Chancellor of UCT, Dr Max Price, says while the University supports peaceful protest, it cannot tolerate criminality and violence.
About 18 children rescued from the Mancoba Family Church in Ngcobo Eastern Cape must go to school. Eastern Cape Social development MEC, Nancy Sihlwayi, and officials visited the Angel Ministries church on yesterday (Wednesday) to understand its practices. The children are found to have been living under extremely poor conditions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the MEC of Social Development in the Eastern Cape, Nancy Sihlwayi...
Lily Gold Mine management near Barberton in Mpumalanga says it will take them 14 days to resume rescue operations underground. This after operation to find three trapped mine workers were stopped due to rock fall at the mine over the weekend. The workers are believed to be in a container which was used a their work station. The announcement was made last night at a joint media briefing with AMCU and the Minister of Mineral Resources. Motsebi wa Monareng reports
- Inflation and Retail sales data released yesterday, both came in higher than expected. What does that say about local economic conditions?
- High inflation and low growth - is this what is meant with the term 'stagflation'?
- If we lose our sovereign credit rating, what alternatives do we have as a country, to source loans or capital inflows?
Lily Gold Mine management near Barberton in Mpumalanga says it will take them 14 days to resume rescue operations underground. This after operation to find three trapped mine workers were stopped due to rock fall at the mine over the weekend. The workers are believed to be in a container which was used a their work station. The announcement was made last night at a joint media briefing with AMCU and the Minister of Mineral Resources. Motsebi wa Monareng reports
The inquiry into the collapse of the temporary bridge over the M1 at Grayston Drive in Johannesburg will resume again in April. On Tuesday - stakeholders submitted administrative reports where it was revealed that there may have been bolts missing on the temporary scaffolding structure that collapsed onto the highway in October last year. Two people were killed and 19 injured. The inquiry has been established to find if someone should be held criminally responsible for the incident. Noma Bolani reports
- Anglo American released very disappointing results yesterday. What does this mean for the organization and for jobs in South Africa?
- SAA has requested an extension from parliament to table its annual report from February to March. How does this impact on parliamentary oversight?
A treatment to help the immune system fight cancer could soon be a reality. Scientists in the United States say they have found exceptional results with modified T-Cells for patients who would normally have just months to live. Researchers say they witnessed symptoms in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia disappear completely. Dr Carl Albrecht, Associate Researcher in the Biochemistry Department of Stellenbosch University, says he welcomes this breakthrough, but is concerned about the costs of treatment.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources, Sahlulele Luzipo, says he is satisfied with level of commitment by Lily Mine management on finding the three missing miners. Luzipo met with the mine management, families of the trapped mineworkers and the Department of Mineral Resources on site for an inspection yesterday. The three have been trapped underground since 5 February.
- Rating's agency Moody's was back in the news yesterday when they announced that they have further downgraded the expected GDP growth of South Africa. Is this a surprise?
- Yesterday we spoke about oversupply in commodity markets as being one of the major driving forces of lower prices. The agreement between Russia and Saudi Arabia on capping oil output, will this boost oil prices?
- Also making headlines yesterday was the annual results of Anglo American. Will they be reducing production and output?
Opposition parties have torn into President Jacob Zuma's State of the Nation Address. They were taking part in a debate in Parliament on the State of the Nation Address which President Zuma delivered last week. They've expressed concern about government's handling of the economy. Zalene Merrington reports.
One person has been arrested following violent clashes between police and protesting University of Cape Town students last night. Police fired rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse a group of students on the main campus. Police were called in, to help a private company demolish a shack erected by members of the Rhodes Must Fall movement. Lyndon Khan reports from the university..
Zimbabwe police say its still assessing the matter of a dead body found in a compartment on a South African bound cargo plane. The U.S based private plane was enroute from Germany to South Africa when a technical fault forced it to land in Zimbabwe. Blood was seen coming from a crevice on a side of the plane and the body of man was found. The plane was hired by the South African Reserve Bank to carry newly printed notes from Munich to Durban in KwaZulu Natal. Shingai Nyoka reports
Afribusiness says President Jacob Zuma is creating more investment uncertainty with his land reform plan outlined in last Thursday's State of the Nation Address. Afribusiness says this undermines the constitutional right to own property and they will fight this all the way to the Constitutional Court. Sakina kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for AfriBusiness, Stefan Pieterse...
KwaZulu-Natal police say investigations are underway in the case of a woman allegedly found in possession of boxes containing anti-retroviral medication. Last week, forty-year-old Nomvuso Gloria Sithole, briefly appeared in the eMpangeni magistrate's court in northern KwaZulu-Natal, on a charge of theft and illegal possession of a schedule 4 prescribed drug. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
Parliament has confirmed that both EFF and COPE MPs will take part this afternoon in the debate of President Jacob Zuma's State of the Nation Address. This is despite both parties disrupting the president's address last week. Members of these two parties were ordered by the presiding officers to leave the chamber after continuously disrupting the address. Lulama Matya reports
- The market rallied very strongly for the second day in a row yesterday. What was behind this latest move?
- Late yesterday we received news that Anglo American has been cut to so-called junk status by rating's agency Moody's, yet this has been one of the best performing shares year-to-date, so why the downgrade?
- So it all comes back to commodity prices once again. But is this all just due to economic slowdown in China?
The inter ministerial task team has had a series of meetings getting first hand information and also assessing the situation at Lily Gold Mine near Barberton, Mpumalanga.The team arrived at the mine this week following another collapse of two rocks into the shaft, in which the three mine staff members are still trapped under ground.The mine management described the weekend incident as the ongoing scaling down of the side walls. Motsebi wa Monareng reports
The City of Cape Town's Environmental Management spokesperson, Gregg Oelofse, says there's no specific reason why whales have been beaching along the Cape coastline in the past three months. This comes after the carcass of a six metre long Southern Right whale calf was found on the rocks at Bantry Bay, Sea Point along the Atlantic Seabord yesterday. Corbin August reports..
The lawfulness of a disciplinary process against Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe will be argued in the Supreme Court of Appeal today. The case is being brought by Constitutional Court Justices, Bess Nkabinde and Chris Jafta. The two were initially meant to be the principal witnesses against Hlophe at a Judicial Tribunal hearing. They have since lost their arguments at the tribunal and in the high court in Johannesburg, which refused them leave to appeal. Konelo Lekhafola reports
Democratic Alliance Federal Council that met in Cape Town over the weekend is fully backing DA MP and former Prosecutor Glynnis Breytenbach who is facing criminal charges for contravening the NPA Act and defeating the ends of Justice. The NPA says it has a winnable case to successfully prosecute Breytenbach who appear in the Pretoria Magistrates Court today. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
The Johannesburg Central police Station is calling for members of the community who are keen to help fight crime, to join them as informers. Warrant Officer Xoli Mbele says accepted applicants will undergo training and be incentivised.
President Jacob Zuma has assigned various Ministers to urgently assist families of miners who are still trapped at Lily Farm in Barberton. Minister of Mineral Resources, Mr Mosebenzi Zwane, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women,Susan Shabangu and the Minister of Social Development, Bathabile Dlamini are expected to put their heads together and provide support to the affected families. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amcu's spokesperson Manzini Zungu
Lily Mine rescue efforts for three trapped miners have been suspended following another collapse at the mine on yesterday afternoon. Additional Mine engineers have arrived at the Lily gold mine between Louws Creek and Barberton to conduct assessments at the mine. The miners were trapped when a container serving as a lamp room collapsed into a large sinkhole at the mine shaft a week ago. Vusi Twala reports
- Last week continued to be extremely volatile on global markets, but at least we managed to finish the week of on a very strong note. Do you think the bounce that we've seen is sustainable?
- Chinese markets were closed for the whole week for the Chinese New Year - should we expect them to be in catch-up mode this week, or will they lead the action once again?
- Coming back home - last week we had the State of the Nation Address by Pres. Zuma, and next week is the much anticipated tabling of the Budget in parliament by Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan. Do you think government has done enough to avoid the potential downgrade of our sovereign credit rating?
A church in Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape has raised eyebrows after allegations that it has violated children's rights surfaced. Community members have called for law enforcement agencies to intervene. It is believed that more than 20 children at the church are not allowed to go to school while parents who are members of the church are forced to resign from work. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
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There's now hope that the trapped miners in Lily Mine in Barberton, Mpumalanga will soon be found. A tyre that was close to the container that kept the miners has been discovered by the rescue team members. The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) President Joseph Mathunjwa spend a day underground helping the mine management and the rescue workers to find the miners. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to President Joseph Mathunjwa
- Reaction to the SONA
- Rand strong ahead of the first trading following the SONA
- Jobless Claims in U.S. Decline to Lowest Level in Seven Weeks
As this year's Mining Indaba wraps up in Cape Town - experts have appealed to mining companies to be more transparent regarding the impact of the current commodity slump. Some have urged the sector to retrain workers facing retrenchment in skills outside mining. Lack of adequate measures by the industry to deal with any cyclical downturn has also been raised as a major concern. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
President Jacob Zuma has called South Africans to work together and address the economic challenges. President Jacob Zuma says the South African economy has been facing a tough time since the global economy meltdown of 2008. He was delivering his State of the Nation Address to a joint sitting of Parliament. He singled out South Africa's BRICs partners Russia, Brazil and China as countries where growth has disappointed and which have a profound effect on the local economy. For a reaction to President Zuma's State of the Nation Address, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the managing director of the Banking Association of South Africa (BASA), Cas Coovadia
Government will tighten the public purse as the country battles a weakened economy and dwindling tax revenue. President Jacob Zuma announced new measures to curb wasteful expenditure. However he has made it clear social spending will not be compromised. He delivered his state of the nation address in parliament last night - spending much of his address on plans to revive the ailing economy. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has more...
Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague will rule today (12 February) as to whether out of court evidence from witnesses who later recanted, is admissible in the case against Kenyan vice president William Ruto. The judgement goes to the heart of the case against Ruto, who's accused of ordering the violence that followed Kenya's 2008 election, as Elena Casas explains.
- Let's talk about Woolworths earnings update and the general condition for retailers
- Summary of some of the key points from SONA
- Eurozone growth numbers coming out today
The hightened security in Parliament for the State of the Nation didn't dampen the colourful part of the event - which is fashion. Members of Parliament, dignitaries and invited guests were dressed to the occassion. Lulama Matya reports....
A New David Kramer music production " District Six Kanala" will make its world première in Cape Town this evening. Today marks 50-years since District Six was declared a whites-only area by the apartheid regime using the Group Area's Act of 1950. Thousands of people were forcefully removed to the Cape Flats and their houses, halls and bioscopes flattened. As Carmel Loggenberg Roberts reports the new musical at the Fugard Theatre, lauds the legacy of the unforgettable suburb.
Various activities have been planned in Cape Town ahead of President Jacob Zuma's State of the Nation Address in Parliament. The City of Cape Town says organisations such as the "Zuma Must Fall" movement have been granted permission to march in the CBD. Chris Mabuya reports...
Political parties want President Jacob Zuma to tell the nation what his plans are to revive the economy. Some have also urged him to apologise for refusing for two years to adhere to the recommendations of the Public Protector on paying for non-security upgrades at his Nkandla home. Zuma will deliver the annual State of the Nation Address later this evening (thursday 11 February). His lawyers have told the Constitutional Court that he now believes the Public Protector's findings are binding. Joseph Mosia reports..
On the sidelines of the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, Trade and Industry minister, Rob Davies announced that his department and global precious metals company- Isando Precious Metal is funding a fuel cell project that will assist South Africa to boost our platinum industry...Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the CEO of IPM, Vinay Somera.
The search for the three missing Lily gold mine's staff members continues. Rescue teams remain busy underground blasting rocks and removing sand to reach the container in which the three workers are believed to be trapped. Church leaders, unions and members of the provincial legislature visited the mine to support family members of the missing trio. Vusi Twala reports ...
- The Mining indaba and the CEO’s summit reveals “red tap” as core reason for the slowness in Foreign Direct Investments
- More European countries consider exiting the Eurozone to protect their individual economies
- The FED warns of complacency after the initial rate hike
The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South African (contralesa) says Mvezo Chief Mandla Mandela cannot lead the people of Mvezo in the Eastern Cape and be a Muslim at the same time. This follows Mandla Mandela's convertion to Islam. Mandela got married Rabia Clarke, a Muslim woman and is believed to have converted to Islam late last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the general secretary of Contralesa Chief Xolile Ndevu
Parliament says it is ready to host the President for this year's State of the Nation Address. National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete says there is adequate security to deal with any attempts to disrupt the event, as the EFF has threatened. Addressing the media at parliament, Mbete says all security services have made the necessary preparations and they expect everything to go smoothly. Joseph Mosia reports...
Government and the business sector have agreed on new measures to improve levels of cooperation and engagement. This emerged after the meeting between President Jacob Zuma and the country's Chief Executive Officers of top companies in Cape Town yesterday. The meeting comes ahead of the President's State of the Nation Address on Thursday. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
- The restructuring happening at Bidvest
- The rout in European equities and what is driving it?
- Janet Yellen's testimony to congress happening today and tomorrow
Thousands of EFF supporters descended on the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg to support the party's legal battle against President Jacob Zuma and the national assembly. They marched from Newtown to outside the court where the country's legal eagles were squaring up on the Public Protector's recommendations that President Zuma pay back the money for non-security upgrades at his Nkandla home in KwaZulu Natal. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana filed this report…
The number of doctors in the country is critically low while administration staff such as clerks and managers is fast escalating. The SA Medical Association says its concerned that there are too many medical posts that are frozen in provinces which need doctors the most. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vice Chairman of the SA Medical Association Dr. Mzukisi Grootboom and Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi....
- Emerging-market stocks ended a two-day gain amid the widest price swings this year as slumping oil prices sapped energy companies and traders weighed the timing of U.S. interest-rate increases
- More than a quarter of the African nations south of the Sahara Desert have presidential elections this year, and renewable energy developers could stand to benefit
- India sees its growth exceeding economists' estimates to overtake a slowing China
The much-anticipated Constitutional Court hearing into the powers of the Public Protector is set to get underway this morning (tuesday 9 february). The marathon hearing before the highest court in the land is expected to settle the dispute over whether President Jacob Zuma is obliged to pay to pay back money for non-security features at his Nkandla home. Senior Constitutional Court reporter, Candice Nolan looks ahead to the arguments before the court.
Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Dumisa Ntsebeza on NDPP's decision to prosecute members of the Soweto Special Branch for the murder of Nokuthula Simelane.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says they have decided to prosecute four members of the Soweto Special Branch for the murder of Nokuthula Simelane. Simelane disappeared in September 1983. She was an ANC underground operative. She disappeared in the hands of the Soweto Special Branch. Sakina spoke to spokesperson of the NPA Luvuyo Mfaku and Thembi Nkadimeng , sister to Nokuthula Simelane
Listening to this conversation is Thembi Nkadimeng - she is the sister to Nokuthula Simelane. She joins us on the line to give us the family;s reaction to the
The North West police have confirmed an incident where a group of EFF members allegedly attempted to attack and set alight the house of the ANC Youth League President, Collen Maine, at his home village outside Taung. The alleged attack happened yesterday afternoon. This is apparently linked to the comments made by Maine at a youth league's rally in Shoshanguve north of Pretoria, over the weekend. Patrick Dintwa reports
HIV testing kits are now available over the counter. The Pharmacy Council of South Africa says pharmacists can now sell HIV testing kits at their pharmacies. The Council says the ban on the sale of the testing kits was removed last year and is now ready to be implemented. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of Pharmacy Council of South Africa Amos Masango...
- Amplats earnings
- India's economic growth numbers
- Janet Yellen's testimony to congress later this week
The search for the three missing staff members of the Lily gold mine continues. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Lilly Mine Operations Director who says the search is at the critical stage, but they are not loosing hope.
Markets Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at China's foreign-exchange reserves shrank to the smallest since 2012, Oil traded near $31 a barrel after Saudi Arabia and Venezuela met to discuss cooperating to stabilize the market and U.S. data signalled investors are split on the direction for prices and U.S. companies created 151,000 jobs in January, a disappointment compared to the economist consensus leading up to the report
South African Businessman Tokyo Sexwale says he is pushing on with the race to be Football World Governing body FIFA's next president despite a decision by the Confederation of African Football to endorse Bahrain Football Association's President Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa. Sexwale says the continent needs a person who understands what ails football in Africa and he is that man. Sarah Kimani spoke to him in Rwanda, she began by asking him if he is disappointed that CAF did not endorse him
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has spoken out against incidents of racism in the country. He said that the government is working hard to improve the economy and create employment. The Deputy President also promised solutions to mitigate against the downgrading of the economy by rating agencies including a negative forecast by the World Bank on the country's growth prospects. He was speaking during the ANC's 104th anniversary celebrations in Polokwane, Limpopo. Jabulani Baloi reports
Two Durban cyclists have been killed by an alleged drunk driver. The incident happened just after five o' clock on Sunday morning. Both cyclists were members of the Kings Park Cycling Club. Minoshni Pillay compiled this report
Nadir Thokan, Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers looks at US jobs numbers that came out on Friday, shrinking Chinese foreign reserves and why is this happening and the tough task facing Pravin Gordhan for the budget speech.
The ANCYL says it is ready to defend its mother body and its president, Jacob Zuma. Addressing thousands of members at the Kgala-mela len-yatso rally in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, youth league president, Collen Maine, told the crowd they must protect the ANC and not be distracted as the Local Government Elections approach. Maine also had a strong message for opposition parties. Phumzile Mlangeni reports
The eThekwini Municipality may soon be forced to revisit its practice of grave sharing if the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, disapproves it. The issue came under the spotlight at the Commission's recent sitting in Durban. Legal experts say the body has every right to force the municipality to urgently reconsider this. Minoshni Pillay reports.
The public hearings by the National Energy Regulator, NERSA into Eskom's application to increase tariffs by more than 16 percent were held at Gallagher Estate in Gauteng today. The utility says it is applying for this increase, bearing in mind that consumers are hard pressed. It maintains that it is sensitive to the current socio-economic challenges and the increase will help it meet its financial obligations. During the hearings, several protesters outside the venue expressed their displeasure over the proposed tariff increase. MorafeTabane has more on this
The Constitutional Court case looking into the powers of the Public Protector is set to go ahead next Tuesday. President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday proposed how he might go about paying back part of the money for non-security related features to his Nkandla home. The Constitutional Court responded by saying that the parties should decide the issue among themselves. But such an agreement seems unlikely. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details
COSATU says it is gearing up for a must win battle. The federation is going ahead with their fight for the new pension tax laws to be scrapped. The labour federation held a special Central Executive Committee meeting to map out a way forward with just three months to go before the law comes into effect. The new laws limit workers to withdrawing a third of their pension as a lump sum upon retirement, with the rest invested annuities to pay a monthly allowance. Senior Political reporter Amos Phago was there
Zimbabwe's Central Bank has unveiled a draft of measures aimed at tightening exchange controls and keeping money in the formal banking sector. The country's Reserve Bank Governor John Manguya says Zimbabwe lost close to two billion US dollars or 160 billion rand - in externalization of funds in 2015. He tabled his 2016 monetary policy yesterday. Shinga Nyoka reports....
Moody’s Investor Services indicates that the GDP low growth prospects is credit negative. What does this mean and what would be the impact if any and can professionals play their part in curbing the scourge of unemployed graduates.
Adriana Marais is preparing herself for a one-way trip to Mars. She has been short-listed for the Mars One project. If selected, she will see her dream of travelling to the Red Planet fulfilled in 2026. Marais, who is a theoretical physicist and member of the Quantum Research Group, says her fascination with living on another planet started at a young age. She joins us on the line now to tell us more.
Presidential spokesperson Bongani Majola says no steps will be taken agains Zille for leaking the confidential information.
The Presidency says it not impressed with Western Cape Premier Helen Zille for disclosing confidential information. Helen Zille speaks to Sakina Kamwendo about the alleged leak
Suspended Police Commissioner, Riya Phiyega, claims there's a high-level conspiracy to discredit her. She was responding to police watchdog-Independent Police Investigative Directorate's recommendation to Parliament, that she should be criminally charged. This for allegedly withholding information from the Farlam Commission probing the 2012 Marikana shootings. Phiyega says she will fight to clear her name. Amos Phago reports
- Under the current economic climate, can government still maintain the role of creating jobs?
- Often we think education is the life saver, but there are unemployed graduates. How does this happen and how can this be addressed?
Eskom's Chief Executive Officer Brian Molefe says no load sheding is expected this coming winter. He says even though the power utility will still continue with its planned maintenance, there won't be a need to implement electricity blackouts. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Eskom CEO, Brian Molefe
Newly-formed Anti-Racism Action Forum says it will lay 22 criminal charges against the former president FW De Klerk and apartheid-era Law and Order minister Adriaan Vlok. Sakina Kamwendo speaks Anti-Racism Action Forum spokesperson Zandi Radebe.
Former President, FW de Klerk says he has have no fear about new human rights violations charges to be brought against him and former law and order minister Adriaan Vlok. The newly-formed Anti-Racism Action Forum (Araf) would open criminal charges at the Hillbrow police station in Johannesburg for "crimes committed against black people. : For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the Anti-Racism Action Forum Zandi Radebe....
- Asian stocks tumbled for a second day as Nomura Holdings Inc. reported disappointing earnings and oil's slump below $30 a barrel eroded investor confidence in global economic growth
- Automakers reported the strongest U.S. January sales in a decade, topping analysts' estimates, however locally the industry is still under pressure
- Germany's unemployment rate unexpectedly fell to a record low in January, in a sign that economic sentiment in Europe's largest economy is withstanding the tumult in global markets
President Jacob Zuma agreed to pay back some of the money spent on the security upgrades at his home in Nkandla. In a statement released yesterday, the president says the Auditor General and the Minister of Finance should determine the amount he should repay. The announcement comes exactly a week before the Constitutional court is due to hear an application by the EFF on the matter. Sakina speaks to Professor Fikeni, a Political Analyst based at the University of South Africa
President Jacob Zuma wants a court settlement to finally end the long drawn out political and legal controversy around tax payer's money spent on his Nkandla home. He wants the constitutional court to order the finance minister and auditor general to determine how much he is liable to pay for non security installations at his private home. This comes as the court was due to hear the matter brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters next week Tuesday. Zuma released a statement late last night on his latest submissions to the court. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi professor Somadoda Fikeni, a Political Analyst based at the University of South Africa ...
North West Education Department says drastic meassures are to be taken against the lady educator, who is accused of severely assaulted a nine year old learner in Rustenburg. The boy was taken to Job Shimankana Hospital in Rusterburg. Currently the boy's hand is swollen and in a bad state of health. Bobby Serame and Zebilon Maine visited the area and filed this report...
The Joshua Generation Church in Cape Town says it will not stop advocating spanking as a form of discipline. This comes after the South African Human Right's Commission (SAHRC) ordered the church to comply in a written undertaking that it will stop promoting corporal punishment within the church. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Adv Nadene Badenhorst- Legal Counsel for Freedom of Religion South Africa and Spokesperson for Joshua Generation Church...
- The World Bank has joined the IMF in reducing the projected GDP growth for South Africa for this year and next year. What's the impact of the low growth environment?
- Are there immediate medium to short term solutions to address this endemic unemployment?
President Jacob Zuma wants a court settlement to finally end the long drawn out political and legal controversy around tax payer's money spent on his Nkandla home. He wants the constitutional court to order the finance minister and auditor general to determine how much he is liable to pay for non security installations at his private home. This comes as the court was due to hear the matter brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters next week Tuesday. Zuma released a statement late last night on his latest submissions to the court. Deputy political editor Mahlatse Galleys has more
- Royal Dutch Shell Plc had its debt rating cut to the lowest since Standard & Poor's began coverage in 1990, and downgrades of several other major European oil and gas companies will probably follow in coming weeks
- Google reported profit and sales that topped estimates, lifted by robust sales of online ads and tighter cost controls, putting parent Alphabet Inc. on track to overtake Apple Inc. as the world's most valuable company
- Europe's Biggest Exchange Warns `Brexit' May Spur London Exodus
Thousands of pupils are still waiting for placement at Gauteng schools. Gauteng department of education had assured learners and parents that it would resolve the problem. MEANWHILE, a month into the new school year, texbooks remain undelivered to several schools in Johannesburg, Gauteng. It is believed that teachers and principals who were expected to collect the textbooks from a storage room in Soweto, using their own cars and in their own time, have not done so. Thousands of children are affected. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Elijah Mhlanga,spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education
The National Mine Workers (NUM) says it looks forward to engaging Kumba Iron Ore at the CCMA to find ways to reduce the number of retrenchments. This follows an announcement by Kumba that about 4-thousand jobs will soon be lost. NUM's Chief Negotiator at Kumba Iron Ore, Lucas Phiri, says the union is concerned that the first casualties are always the workers not the executives.
Scores of passengers narrowly escaped death when angry protesters forced them out of a PUTCO bus before setting it alight in Soshanguve North of Pretoria. Residents of Marikana informal settlement have vowed to continue with protests if their demands for clean running water, roads and electricity are not met. They have threatened to disrupt the up-coming local government elections if government and the Tshwane Metro Council ignore their demands of many years. Phanuel Shuma reports
Pregnant women are advised to take precautionary measures when travelling to countries where the Zika virus is endemic. The mosquito-borne virus, which is endemic to the Americas, has been linked to serious birth defects. An Advisor at NetCare Travel Clinics, Dr Pete Vincent says pregnant women should avoid travelling to affected countries or consult their doctor to discuss the risks of the virus to their pregnancy.
- The Barclays Purchasing Managers Index for January was released yesterday. Is there some good news?
- February is a budget month, but this year's budget is even more critical for South Africa as we face a possible downgrade. Can this be avoided? Is our environment ripe for rethink on how we budget and spend the tax payers moneys
- SAA cancelled its route between JHB and Abu Dhabi. This route was only opened in in March 2015. Why is it being terminated so soo
Three members of the ANC's NEC will be deployed to stabilise the party in the Western Cape. This comes after provincial Chairperson, Marius Fransman and Secretary, Faiez Jacobs, were asked to step down. Fransman faces sexual harassment charges, while Jacobs is accused of assaulting a party researcher. Members of the ANC's top six met in Cape Town earlier today to discuss the matter. Zalene Merrington reports
Today marks 26 years since former president F.W de Klerk's historic announcement in parliament that he would release Nelson Mandela. Mandela had spent 27 years in jail. As part of the celebrations, the FW de Klerk Foundation says retired Constitutional Court Justice Albie Sachs and former ANC national treasurer Matthews Phosa will be among the speakers at its annual conference in Cape Town. Abongwe Kobokana compiled this report
United Democratic Movement Secretary General, Bongani Msomi, has confirmed that two structures have been disbanded in the Eastern Cape. They are the party's Provincial Executive Committee and the O R Tambo Regional Executive Committee. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
The formal bail application of five deaf learners from the Efata School for the Blind and the Deaf in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, will resume in the Mthatha magistrate's court this morning. They are facing charges of murder for the alleged brutal killing of the deputy principal at their school five months ago. Nodumo Mzamane was stabbed several times at her house near the school hostel. Though the case was postponed after accused 2 broke down during the last appearance, provision of interpreters is still a challenge. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
Four siblings and their cousin between the ages of three and 16 have died in a shack fire at Ramatlabama outside Mahikeng in North West. Police say six children were alone in the dwelling when it caught fire. One child was rescued by neighbours, and is in hospital. Itumeleng Kgajane reports
Chairperson of the African Union and Chad President, Idris Derby says AU member states need to pursue dialogue in crises and listen to their people to avert the problems facing the continent. He was speaking at the end of the 26th sitting of the Union Assembly in the Ethiopian capital Addis Abbaba on Sunday. The two day meeting mainly discussed the political crises in Burundi, South Sudan, Burkina Faso with terror attacks in Somalia, Nigeria and Kenya among others. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo was there and filed this report.
Former president of Cote d'Ivoire, Laurent Gbagbo has pleaded not guilty to four counts of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. He is the first former head of state to see his case at the ICC go all the way to trial. Jack Parrock reports from The Hague.
- Asian markets continue the positive momentum
- Analysts concerned over recent mobile technology company declines
- Our response to the SARB decision to hike rates
Government lawyers will meet with legal representatives of the claimants of the 2012 Marikana shootings in Sandton on Friday. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss a civil suit of one billion rand launched by the injured and arrested miners,as well as the widows of the miners. 34 miners were shot dead by police during an unprotected wage strike at Lonmin's Marikana platinum mine in the North West. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana, wants employers to assist college students with workplace experience. As part of their project, Decade of the Artisan, the minister is holding talks with employers from different industries in Polokwane, to encourage them to formalise links with colleges and provide students with apprenticeships, learnerships or other skills programme.
The ANC's National Working Committee is expected to meet with the party's Western Cape leaders on Monday to discuss the way forward after it asked provincial leader, Marius Fransman, to step down. Fransman has been asked to step aside pending the completion of an investigation into sexual harrassment charges against him. The party's top leaders also gave provincial secretary, Faiez Jacobs, 48 hours yesterday to show why he shouldn't be suspended for assault charges. For analysis, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political economy analyst at Ngube Ngcuka consulting Zamikhaya Maseti...
ANC's National Working Committee is expected to meet with the party's Western Cape leaders on Monday to discuss the way forward after it asked provincial leader, Marius Fransman, to step down. Fransman has been asked to step aside pending the completion of an investigation into sexual harrassment charges against him. The party's top leaders also gave provincial secretary, Faiez Jacobs, 48 hours yesterday to show why he shouldn't be suspended for assault charges. Lyndon Khan reports
Grape farmers say they expect a smaller harvest in the Western Cape this year due to the drought. Harvest season is already underway at many farms and owners are doing their best to harvest a good crop. Large vegetation fires have also dealt a blow to many farmers. Lynne Arendse reports
- The impact of the interest rate hike on the markets
- Microsoft earnings
- The bank of Japans's decision to ease
Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has reminded South Africans that the hiking cycle continues. The bank has increased the repo rate by an agressive 50 basis points to 6.75 percent, as expected by most economists. Kganyago has attributed the hike to the expected deterioration in the bank's inflation outlook due to a weaker rand. Tshepo Mongoai report.
The future of the Pan African Congress of Azania hangs in the balance - with the party at risk of not contesting the upcoming local government elections. The IEC is giving the party a cold shoulder - until it resolves its internal leadership battles. The party has split into two factions since the expulsion of Letlapa Mphahlele as party president in 2013, with both sides claiming legitimacy over the brand. The IEC says it will not allow either of the two groups to contest any elections until the leadership issue is resolved. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
The ANC has vowed to take action against economic challenges facing the country. This is one of the key decisions taken at the ruling paty's three day NEC lekgotla which ended last night in Pretoria. The lekgotla is an annual meeting that determines government programmes and priorities to ensure consistency between government work and the ANC. The state of education, economic growth and the upcoming local government elections were at the top of the agenda. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Traditional Healers says they refuse to be regulated by government. They say it is impossible that government can pass laws that regulate their calling. This comes after government published the Traditional Health Practitioners Regulations in November last year. Part of the regulations stipulate that traditional healers and traditional medicines should be regulated, should undergo training and should be classified only under four groups, when traditional healing is so wide. Senior journalist Thabile Mbhele reports...
The Tshwane University of Technology's Student Representative Council says police acted within their rights when they used teargas to disperse striking workers.This comes after the situation at Tshwane University of Technology's west campus spiralled out of control when a group of students pelted striking workers with stones from inside the campus. Workers were waiting at the entrance to the campus when their leaders told them that management refused to come and address them. Maluti Obuseng reports
President Jacob Zuma says the controversial pension tax laws will only be reviewed after two years. The president was responding to an outcry by labour unions who have threatened strike action if the new laws that come into effect on March 1st are not scrapped. In a statement, President Zuma says there was extensive consultation but the unions say these were not necessarily effective. The unions say they will go ahead with rolling mass action. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports
Thousands of protesters in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape province brought the rural town into a standstill. A number of shops have been vandalised and A ward councillor's homestead set alight. It is also believed that another councillor was forced to resign at gun point. Some learners claim they were forced out of classes to join the protest. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports from Lusikisik
DA Leader Mmusi Maimane will lead supporters on a jobs march through the Johannesburg CBD today. The DA says close to 2 million South Africans have joined the ranks of the unemployed since 2009.
- Emerging Stocks Advance Before Fed as China Shares Extend Slump
- Apple Forecasts First Sales Drop Since 2003 on iPhone Slowdown
- Toyota Believed to Plan Offer to Acquire Rest of Daihatsu
- South Africa Probes Foreign Exchange Traders on Price Fixing
Gareth Cliff will only learn later this week if his application in the High Court in Johannesburg to force pay channel, Mnet to reinstate him as an Idols SA judge was successful. Cliff, who isn't a stranger to controversy - was fired earlier this month for supposedly supporting racist remarks by KZN woman, Penny Sparrow. The channel said it found that the media personality's defence of freedom of speech was insensitive with regards to this country's history. Noma Bolani reports
Gareth Cliff will only learn later this week if his application in the High Court in Johannesburg to force pay channel, Mnet to reinstate him as an Idols SA judge was successful. Cliff, who isn't a stranger to controversy - was fired earlier this month for supposedly supporting racist remarks by KZN woman, Penny Sparrow. The channel said it found that the media personality's defence of freedom of speech was insensitive with regards to this country's history. Noma Bolani reports
Burundi is set to be at the top of the agenda at the upcoming African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa later this week. This after Burundi's president Pierre Nkurunziza expressed that he does not want the AU'S proposed peacekeeping force imposed on his country. South Africa is likely to be part of the mediation efforts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Jakkie Celliers chairperson of the Institute of Security Studies...
- Lets talk about the changing tide for apple
- What to expect from Federal Reserve meeting later today
- Where to from here for residential property prices in South Africa
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks succumbed to the global retreat, halting a two-day rally as oil fell back below $30 a barrel and anxiety among investors increased ahead of Japanese and U.S. central bank meetings, China is deepening economic engagements with Iran just a week after international sanctions were lifted and McDonald’s Corp., waging a comeback effort under Chief Executive Officer Steve Easterbrook, posted its best quarterly growth in almost four years after a move to serve breakfast all day helped fuel U.S. sales.
The situation is tense in the Ntshanga west of Durban following a shooting that claimed two lives during an ANC meeting. Two people were killed and three others injured when a shoot-out ensued yesterday. It's not yet clear whether the incident is linked to internal political wrangling that has divided membership in the area. The party has called on the police to do all in their power to apprehend the suspects. Zanele Buthelezi compiled this
Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at Iran's economic ambitions subsequent to the lifting of sanctions and Apple earnings coming out today
National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union, NEHAWU, has urged its members not to resign from their jobs over the new tax amendment laws. The union was briefing the media in Braamfontein in Johannesburg yesterday (monday 25 January). It tackled various issues affecting its members, including its campaign against out-sourcing at universities, the recently-signed White Paper on the National Health Insurance and the new tax legislation. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports
A North West teacher has been suspended for allegedly condoning a group of Grade 9 learners to a higher grade against the department's progression policy. 25 learners at Eletsa Secondary School in Letlhabile near Brits were pushed to Grade 10 though they were not eligible for a pass. The department says the affected learners will now be demoted to their previous grades as they did not meet the progression criteria as set by the policy. Phanuel Shuma reports.
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Clive Ramathibela looking at the surge un Global stocks surged, as U.S. equities joined a rally that pushed oil to its best two days since 2009 on speculation that central banks will expand stimulus measures to counter turmoil in financial markets, MTN aims to settle Nigerian fine out of court and oil price swings near $32 after biggest two-day rally in seven years.
Minister of Police, Nkosinathi Nhleko, says a panel of experts has been appointed to assist in the implementation of the recommendations of the Farlam Commission. He was communicating this to journalists at a briefing he held yesterday. The Minister also spoke about plans for the South African Police Service (SAPS) for this year, he now joins us on the line with the National Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane
Limpopo police and the Madibong community at Jane Furse, in Limpopo, have reacted to the killing of a police officer by funeral goers at the village yesterday. 57-year-old Warrant Officer Boshego Joel Seloga was part of a team that tried to arrest a suspect wanted for crimes committed in Brits in the North West. The suspect called for help and community members, mistaking the police for criminals, rushed to help him. The police officer was cornered and shot dead with his own pistol. Shibu Mamokgere filed this report
Young Communist League has called out the ANC Youth League on what they called attempts to get Minister Blade Nzimande axed. YCL National Secretary Maluleke Dlelanga says their ANC counterparts have been gunning for SACP ministers. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports..
The family of slain UJ student, Palesa Madiba, has expressed their gratitude for the support that the public, police and government has given them during this difficult preiod. On Sunday Madiba's remains were handed over to the family by Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Community Safety MEC, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane in Soweto. Madiba's remains were found in a shallow grave in the backyard of her friend's house in Phiri, Soweto in December. She had been missing for more than two years. Jamaine Krige compiled this report
Investment Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at manufacturer and retailer Steinhoff International, what's behind share price slide, Key take away for World Economic Forum 2016 and Iran's economic ambitions subsequent to the lifting of sanctions
National Institute of Communicable of Diseases says there is no outbreak of typhoid fever in Gauteng. This after the Department of Health in Gauteng issued a statement this weekend warning South Africans. The institute says there have been four unrelated cases of typhoid over the past two weeks in Johannesburg‚ but weekend investigations found they were unrelated. Sakina speaks to Professor Lucille Blumberg of the National Institute of Communicable of Diseases
Families of about 1 900 mental health patients who are accommodated at the private hospital group Life Esidimeni in Randfontein, west of Johannesburg, are at their wits end as the facility is set to close because its contract with the Department of Health is coming to an end. The SA Depression and Anxiety Group says their families are not in a position to care for them and there is not sufficient space at other government facilities in the province. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Gauteng MEC for Health, Mme Qedani Mahlangu
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks rose, with the regional benchmark index rebounding from a three-year low, China is willing to keep intervening in the stock market to make sure a few speculators don't benefit at the expense of regular investors, Barclays CEO Deepens Cuts at Investment Bank and African Development bank energy initiative, what does it mean to us and the rest of Africa
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at Richards Bay Coal Terminal has done brilliantly to set a new coal export record in this very tough market environment, Anglo American sells off another mine this week as part of its rapid mine-disposal programme and a special economic zone is on the way for platinum.
The African Development Bank has launched a multi-billion rand initiative to power-up the African continent. The " New Deal" for energy in Africa aims to achieve universal energy access in the continent by 2025. The new energy deal was launched at the World Economic Forum currently underway at the Swiss Alpine resort of Davos. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng is in Davos and has filed this report
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at the global trade and investment front, World Economic Forum in Davos continue to dominate financial news and the positive news ECB's Mario Draghi Hints at More Stimulus in March.
National Student Financial Aid Scheme has confirmed that registration fees amounting to R 1.8 billion rand for all benefiting students has been paid over to universities and technical colleges. This is in line with one of the many concessions made by universities to scrap an upfront initial payment ahead of the academic year. Today, the NSFAS announced that they have set aside more than 2-and a half-billion-rand to fund the registrations of students who were financially excluded between 2013 and 2015. Noma Bolani reports
Eskom is planning to make another application next year for an additional electricity price hike, a public hearing by the National Energy Regulator, Nersa, has heard in Durban. Eskom is applying for an 8-point-6 percent hike that will push the 2016 increase to over 16 percent. While Eskom is arguing it will help to improve economic stability, it has been criticised for poor planning. The sharp electricity price hikes over the past few years are increasingly pushing households to opt for renewable energy and go off-grid. Dries Liebenberg reports
UDM President Bantu Holomisa talks about allegations of corruption he levels against the ANC that they channeled money from public investment corporation into their account to pay staff and for the birthday celebration.
Markets analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at slight recovery on the Asian markets mostly brought back by weaker currencies, JSE feels the harshness of exiting foreign investments and The Davos realities vs the global economy, is it another talk shop?
Zimbabwe's constitutional court has delivered a landmark ruling outlawing all forms of child marriage. Rights activists say the ruling is a victory for a country where a third of girls are married before they turn 18. Former child bride Loveness Mudzuri took the government to court last year, arguing that sections of the marriage law allowing minors to marry were discriminatory and violated children's rights as contained in the Constitution adopted in 2013. Shingai Nyoka reports
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to ANC Treasurer General about claimes made by UDM leader that the ruling party recieved R 40 million rand from the Public Investment Corporation's account.
Human rights and labour organisations have warned that the digital revolution will lead to job losses and widen the gap between the rich and poor. This emerged at the World Economic Forum currently underway at the Swiss Alps resort of Davos. This year's theme is centered around how technology can be used to promote innovation and transform the provision of health care, education and manufacturing in developed and emerging markets. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng is in Davos and has filed this report...
The modest projected growth for the global economy will impact efforts to pursue sustainable economic, social and envirinmental development. That's acoording to the United Nation's Assistant Secretary General for Economic development Lenni Montiel who held a briefing on the World Economic Situation and Prospect report for 2016. The report, released late last year, predicts global growth of around 2.9% for 2016 ticking up to around 3.2% next year. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme will today host a briefing detailing how this year's funding will be distributed. The Department of Higher Education released an additional 6-point-9 billion-rand to make up for the shortfall this academic year. On Wednesday, Vice Chancellors, NSFAS leadership and the Ministers of Higher Education met to discuss their funding issues and disruptions at several universities across the country. Noma Bolani reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at turmoil at the markets, the outlook for inflation in SA and CPI for December increased to 5.2% Despite some rain in parts of the country, the drought has not yet been broken and white maize prices remain at record levels, and are about 25% higher than yellow maize
Analysts have told the SABC any retreat by global investment banks from Africa will not be a long-term measure.This comes amid reports Barclays is looking to sell large parts of its assets in Africa, under plans by new CEO Jes Staley. Barclays Africa employs over 44-thousand people across the continent - but there are concerns over instability in some African countries and falling commodity prices. Our UK correspondent Dan Whitehead reports
The ANC youth League president Collen Maine has defended President Jacob Zuma against critics who blame him for the strain that the rand is under after firing finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene. He says the ANCYL aims to influence the government to establish state owned bank. Maine was speaking during a media briefing in Bloemfontein. Thabiso Radebe reports
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at the World Economic Forum meeting which is underway in Davos in Switzerland, Port Elizabeth public hearings into Eskom's application to NERSA for another electricity tariff increase and Consumer Price Inflation numbers for December to be released later today.
Markets analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at how Asian markets continue declines as currency wars hit hard on the emerging markets, the Bank of England not ready to hike rates and the International Monetary Fund reviews downwards the world's Growth expectations.
NUMSA is calling on all worker formations including Cosatu affiliates to join it in a rolling mass action against the newly amended tax laws. The Metalworker's union says it will apply this week to take to the streets in protest against the legislation. The union says it will push to have the law immediately repealed. Numsa is the latest in the chorus of other unions including Cosatu in rejecting the legislation which allows workers to take a third of their money on retirement with the rest having to be put into annuities. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe attended the union's first interaction with the media in 2016 to find out what is on the agenda
Passenger rail agency, PRASA, MUST make sure that the doors on their commuter trains remain closed while the train is in motion. In terms of a recent Constitutional Court Judgment, failure to do this will mean that PRASA will have to cough up for damages. To date, PRASA seems to have done little to comply with their own basic safety procedures. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan reports
There is still hope for students who want to attend University but don't qualify for bursaries or the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Organisations like bursarynetwork.com helps raise funds to support students who don't have sufficient funds. The Founder of Bursary Network, Emmanuel Luthuli, joins us on the line to tell us more.
Yesterday, we received an sms from Khethokuhle Mbili, one of the final year students at Unisa, who says the institution introduced a new enrolment Policy last year, but until now, the majority of applications for first time students are not finalised. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Professor Michael Temane who is the Deputy Registrar at Unisa.
Markets analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Stock Slump Extended in Europe, Asia as Iran Stokes Oil Decline, China GDP Slows to Weakest Since 2009 on Manufacturing Slide, shares in MTN Group rose on Monday on news that sanctions against Iran have been lifted and shares in South Africa's Mr Price plunge after weak Christmas sales.
AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo is reported to have been given preferential treatment in prison. The Department of Correctional Services has dismissed the claims , saying that all offenders are given the same treatment, except when a doctor prescribes differently. Department of Correctional Services Spokesperson, Manelisi Wolela speaks to Sakina Kamwendo
One of KwaZulu-Natal's worst performing education districts has been given a lifeline by a prominent Durban businessman. Vivian Reddy has pledged to spend about ten million rand to assist in improving education results in the Ilembe District on the province's north coast over the next few years. The initiative was announced by Reddy and Education MEC Peggy Nkonyeni in Durban. Meanwhile, a national and provincial analysis of the 2015 matric results gets underway this week. Zanele Buthelezi reports
Children living with autism in Soweto will now have easier access to schooling. This comes after the Gauteng Department of Education officially opened the Thulasizwe School for Autism, in Orlando West - Soweto yesterday. The school is one of eleven institutions that have been opened since the start of the year to cater for children with special intellectual needs. Thulasizwe School for Autism will accommodate 90 learners. Neliswa Mavundla reports...
Local government elections may possibly only take place in August. This is due to the Independent Electoral Commission still working on contingency plans to allocate thousands of voters in townships and rural areas with addresses. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to IEC spokesperson Kate Bapela
Herman Mashaba, the Founder of the hair-product Black Like Me, has been chosen as the Democratic Alliance's (DA's) Mayoral Candidate for the City of Johannesburg for the upcoming local government elections. Mashaba says, he can't watch the country move in the wrong direction. He says he is really intrigued that in South Africa today, he is still regarded as a black person. He joins us on the line now to elaborate
Markets analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at Emerging-market stocks fell to the lowest level since 2009 as concern about faltering global economic growth and the slump in oil prices sapped risk appetite, Stocks across the Middle East tumbled as the easing of sanctions against Iran raised the prospect of a surge in oil supplies to a market already reeling from the lowest prices in more than a decade and India said it will set up a $1.5 billion fund to encourage start-up businesses and pledged to ease regulations for entrepreneurs.
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at what 2016 for the markets and the economy, oil price would be around $30 a barrel! In the light of the weakness of the rand, this is probably something to be grateful for. What impact would this have on the domestic inflation and interest rate outlook and the global beer giant Anheuser-Busch InBev listed on the JSE on Friday, does this mean that the transaction with SABMiller has now been finalised?
ANC supporters have pulled down the 'Zuma must fall' giant billboard which was mounted on a wall of an apartment building in Cape Town. Chaos ensued when one member of the crowd insulted President Jacob Zuma while ANC Dullah Omar Regional Chairperson Xolani Sotashe was addressing the protesters. Abongwe Kobokana reports.
Students aligned to the Fees Must Fall demonstrations in Cape Town have described the deployment of additional security officials to universities as intimidating. Security has been visibly beefed up on some campuses, amid the writing of deferred exams and ahead of the 2016 registration process. Thandiswa Mawu reports..
The South African government has made a submission for an extension to explain to the International Criminal Court why they did not transfer Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir to The Hague when he attended an EU summit in Johannesburg in June 2015. The ICC has an arrest warrant out against the president for his alleged involvement in the atrocities in Darfur in 2003 which left approximately 300 thousand people dead. South Africa's ministry for justice says the ICC must wait for details of what happened when President Al Bashir was in the country until after the issue has been processed in national courts. Our Europe correspondent Jack Parrock reports.
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at U.S. Stocks Stem Global Sell off , Asian Stocks Rebound After U.S. Advance as Material Shares Rise and the weeks wrap after Oil slumped and the Rand played yoyo.
Eleven people have been arrested for public violence and looting shops in Waterval Boven in Mpumalanga. Residents embarked on a violent service delivery protest setting alight municipal offices and a clinic, late yesterday. They are demanding services such as clean drinking water. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports..
Some analysts have called on pension fund trustees to do more to educate their members about the significance of saving for retirement. The resentment against the new pension fund reform by among the working class had been attributed to lack of education on financial matters. Earlier this week, President Jacob Zuma signed the new tax legislation which will see government regulating the way retired workers access their pension funds. Tshepo Mongoai reports….
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly talks about the combined value Apple, ExxonMobil and Google has been lost by the world’s struggling mining industry, which is at an 11-year low, another diamond mine is closing and mines are coming under the auction hammer around the world and Former President Kgalema Motlanthe is calling for an efficient, collective solution to the problems of South Africa’s battered mining industry.
The Independent Electoral Commission goes into this year's local government elections with the Tlokwe Municipality judgment hanging over its head. The Constitutional Court found that the 2013 by-election was not free and fair. Opposition parties have pointed to the case saying their confidence in the electoral body has waned. The parties attended the IEC's 2016 local government poll launch - outlining its plans for the elections. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana has more ..
The student leaders who walked out of a meeting with Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande say they did so because the minister is not willing to make any commitments on addressing their eight demands. The Minster and other officials from his department met with the SRC leaders of all of the country's university in Tembisa, east of Johannesburg yesterday in an effort to find solutions to the student funding problem. Half of them abandoned the talks before an agreement could be reached. Meamwhile, President Jacob Zuama has appointed a commission of Inquiry into the feasibility of free higher education for the country. Wisani Makhubele reports
Mohammed Nalla, Head of strategic research at Nedbank Corporate and Investment Bank looks SA mining production which is ticking upwards but underlying trend remains weak, BHP Billiton in $5 billion write down of US assets and Sentiment in US ticked higher but is not being sustained
President Jacob Zuma has signed into law new tax legislation that will affect how workers receive their retirement funds. Cosatu has strongly criticized this move saying government has no right to dictate to workers how they receive their pension funds. Professor of Actuarial Sciences at the University of Wits David McCarthy tells Sakina Kamwendo that the new tax law will be beneficial to workers.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks Asian which stocks dropped for the 8th time in nine days, following a renewed selloff in U.S. equities, as material companies led declines, AB InBev to list on the JSE on Friday and they prepare roadshows to promote investor confidence and this week’s Thursday Investment theme is "Comments of the retirement reform, Tax Laws Amendment Act and the Tax Administration Laws Amendment Act".
Zimbabwe is struggling to secure the services of a hangman to carry out executions. The unusual challenge was highlighted in a constitutional court case where 14 death row inmates are appealing to have their death sentences overturned. They say their prolonged wait to die, violates their constitutional right to human dignit and the prevention of cruelty. Shingai Nyoka reports
A group of former mineworkers at Aquarius Platinum mine in Rustenburg in the North West are appealing to government to intervene after four of their colleagues died last week. The group of about five hundred men, mostly foreign nationals, have been living in squalid conditions in the abandoned mine hostels. They were dismissed by Murray and Roberts at Aquarius Mine after embarking on an unprotected strike in 2009. Conditions for these men are deteriorating and they're eating anything to survive. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi reports from the platinum belt...
Mohammed Nalla, Head of Strategic Research at Nedbank Corporate and Investment Bank looks at US markets sell off sharply as risk appetite wane and MTN wins Nigerian court bid to keep accounts unfrozen.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at the Rand as it rallies to end seven-day losing streak, Asia Stocks join rebound in surge from 3-year low as Brent crude oil price rise above $30 and President Obama's 2016 State of the Union Address
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to six year-old Chloe Forshaw, who is starting school today at Kings College & Preparatory School with her mom Simone.
Mohammed Nalla from Nedbank Capital looks at disappointing SA manufacturing data, Agoa deadline set for SA and Chinese trade data breathes some life into markets this morning
The much anticipated series of letters by former president Thabo Mbeki have already caused a stir. Mbeki released the first of ten letters, in which he focuses on the alleged plot by prominent ANC leaders to oust him. According to his spokesperson Mukoni Ratshitanga, the president will focus on various issues that seek to set the record straight. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports
Four farmers from Parys in the Free State who are accused of murder were released on bail late yesterday afternoon due to a lack of evidence. The men allegedly killed two alleged farm attackers last Wednesday. Earlier, tensions ran high outside court as ANC and EFF supporters clash with group of farmers. Jacques Steenkamp reports
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at emerging-Market Stocks Halt Declines on Attractive Valuations,Crude Oil Tumbles to 12-Year Low as Hedge Funds Head for Exit and South African rand plunges as investors fret over economy.
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Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Agri SA's senior economist Thabi Nkosi about how South Africans need to brace themselves for above-inflation increase in food prices that are expected to hit the country soon because of the ongoing drought..
Hundreds of ANC members and civic organisations have gathered at Scottsburgh on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast as part of the march against racism. The march was organised after a recent social media post in which Penny Sparrow called black people monkeys. The Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa has just arrived to join the march. We are joined on the line by our reporter Nkululeko Hlophe who is at the march.
Mohammed Nalla from NedBank Capital looks at the benefits of the falling the Brent crude oil price for South Africa and why SAA loses CiTiBank credit facility
A meeting that was scheduled to discuss allegations of sexual harassment against Western Cape ANC Provincial Chairperson, Marius Fransman, was been postponed to today. The party's provincial spokesperson, Jabu Mfusi, says their top six leaders could not form a quorum yesterday as some of them are still in Rustenburg in the North West where they attended the 104th birthday celebrations at the weekend. Thandiswa Mawu reports
U.S. President Barack Obama is set to make his final State of the Union address today. He will be addressing the American people in front of the US Congress. It's his final year in the White House. His office says Obama will frame the debate about who should replace him and where the country should go from here. Priscilla Huff reports from Washington
The heatwave that hit the country has affected some parts more than others. In the North West, 24 people have died and at least 31 others have been treated for heatstroke. The province has issued a warning to residents to take precautions during the heatwave. For more we are joined on the line by ER24 spokesperson and paramedic Russel Meiring to help us understand how a heatwave affects us
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at emerging markets stock fall to lowest six years and CitiBank cancels R250m SAA facility
President Jacob Zuma has defended his decision to fire Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene. In an interview with the SABC the president dismissed reports that his decision was irrational after replacing Nene with former Merafong Mayor Desmond Van Rooyen. President Zuma was forced to rescind his decision after negative reaction from the markets which saw the Rand crashing. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report..
Speakers at struggle stalwart Indres Naidoo's funeral have called for the liberation movement to take stock. Seventy-nine year Naidoo was buried in Johannesburg after a long illness. He was a given an official provincial funeral which was attended by former presidents Thabo Mbeki and Kgalema Motlanthe. Family and friends called for the movement to embrace the principles that Naidoo lived for. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana compiled this report...
AbaThembu king Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's eldest son - Azenathi has been confirmed as acting king of the AbaThembu nation. This goes according to AbaThembu monarch, King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo 's earlier wishes.Family members and traditional leaders from AbaThembu districts attended a meeting yesterday at Bumbane Great Place outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Fundiswa Mhlekude reports..
Mohammed Nalla from Nedbank Capital looks at the Rand as it reaches another record low and Chines data continues to deteriorate.
Associate Professor and Dean at the Centre for Higher Education Development at the University of Cape Town, Suellen Shay, says there is ample evidence that the 2015 matriculants are not ready for university. She says in assessing learners' preparedness, two measures have to be taken into consideration. These are the National Senior Certificate, and the national Benchmark tests. Shay says these two instruments are vital for universities to make decisions regarding admissions. She now joins us on the line to explain why learners preparedness is important.
Trade and Industry minister Rob Davies has confirmed that all outstanding issues threatening the renewal of AGOA agricultural trade benefits between South Africa and the United States - have been resolved. Davies has told a news conference in Pretoria the salmonella issue has been concluded and the South African market is now open for 65-thousand tons of US poultry imports. He says the US has signed all documents and he is now awaiting a formal announcement from President Barack Obama. Amina Accram reports
Nadir Thokan, Investment Analyst at 27Four Investment looks at comments made by Goerge Soros about market conditions feeling like 2008, possible listing of state owned Saudi Aramco and returns slowing for listed property sector.
Trade and Industry minister Rob Davies has confirmed that all outstanding issues threatening the renewal of AGOA agricultural trade benefits between South Africa and the United States - have been resolved. Davies has told a news conference in Pretoria the salmonella issue has been concluded and the South African market is now open for 65-thousand tons of US poultry imports. He says the US has signed all documents and he is now awaiting a formal announcement from President Barack Obama. Amina Accram reports
As the ANC gears up for its 104th birthday celebration tomorrow, it is business as usual in Nkaneng township near the koppie where 34 miners were killed in 2012. Some residents say they are reluctant to attend the governing party's bash as they are still recovering from the tragedy. The ANC is holding its national rally in Rustenburg - three years after the Marikana police shooting. Our reporter Patrick Dinta visited Nkaneng and filed this report.
Government's student financial aid scheme, NSFAS, has set aside one-point-four billion rand for student registrations. NSFAS says they hope to assist about 400-thousand students to register. A record number of matrics sat for their final exam last year. The Higher Education Department is expected to flesh out more details of government's financial assistance next week. Zalene Merrington reports
The governing party the ANC - is in a celebratory mood as it marks its 104th anniversary today. The continent's oldest liberation movement is celebrating in the mining town of Rustenburg in the North West. Over 120-thousand people are expected to attend the festivities. It will be delivering its annual January 8 statement - with high expectations on how to resolve the country's pressing challenges. Our presidential correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng looks at some of these.
For the past two months or so, South Africa has been gripped by soaring temperatures. The South African farmers are not the only ones affected, local professional football teams have also been on the receiving end. The heat has forced Bidvest Wits coach Gavin Hunt to cut down on the training hours. Hunt has a first hand experience of the brutal summer conditions, when he was coach of Black Leopards, two of his players collapsed due to heat exhaustion. Joseph Mohale filled this report...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks and currencies which declines while oil erased gains as China weakened the yuan's reference rate by the most since August, the value of South African assets abroad outstripped foreign investment into the country for the first time on record and this week’s Thursday investment theme is Netflix goeing live in 130 countries, which helped the stock surge by 7.5%
The Kwazulu Natal MEC for Education Peggy Nkonyeni has expressed disappointment at the decline in the 2015 matric results. The province achieved 60 point seven percent in 2015 compared to 69.7% in 2014. During the release of the results, the Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said there are a number of issues that contributed to the decline and her department will work with the provinces to improve the pass rate. Fanele Mhlongo reports.......
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC will still remain in power at the beleaguered Tlokwe Local Municipality in the North West after by- elections are held next month. Ramaphosa was conducting door-to-door campaigns in Ikageng ward 18. The ANC Deputy President is in the province ahead of the ANC's 104th birthday celebrations to be held in Rustenburg this weekend. Patrick Dintwa reports ...
A law that criminalises racism may be what the country needs to clamp down the scourge of racism but South Africans need to continue the dialogue. This is according to the director at the Cape Town based Goedgedacht Forum, Felicity Harrison. The forum is one of the post apartheid initiatives aimed at fostering reconciliation among South Africans. Harrison was reacting to growing calls for a legislation to criminalise racism following the recent racist comments made on social media platforms. Zalene Merrington reports...
27 Four Investment Analyst Nadir token looks at the December US Federal Bank meeting minutes released last night and business sector in South Africa continues to wane
There has been mixed reaction to government handing over houses in the mining township of Marikana in the North West. While recipients were elated, others have cried foul. President Jacob Zuma announced the Presidential Housing Project after the 2012 shooting that left 34 mine workers dead. Tension was further heightened in the township when residents heard President Zuma will no longer be handing over the houses. Presidential correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports
Sakina Kamwendo, speaks to Gauteng's top achiever, Minét Uys from Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool who achieved an average of 96% in her matric subjects.
Analyst at 27four investments Nadir Thoken speaks to Sakina kamwendo about the latest Eurozone inflation data. The impact of higher interest rates in the U.S. on equities and China's intervention in the stock market to restore some calm.
Asian markets are trading lower at this hour, although mainland China's bourses are higher after state media reported a ban on share sales by major shareholders will remain in place until new rules are announced to manage the sale of shares. The ban on share sales by major shareholders was put in place six months ago when the Shanghai Composite sold off around 30 percent in a short period of time. For more markets analyst Clive Ramathibela spoke to Sakina Kamwendo...
The ANC has called for laws to criminalize racism. The governing party today (Tuesday 5 December) laid charges of crimen injuria against several South Africans for racist comments posted on social media. They include economist Chris Hart, Justin van Vuuren, DA member of parliament Mike Waters and Penny Sparrow. The ANC says using influential platforms such as social media to spread racism has the potential to move the country back into the apartheid era. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Most analysts and economists have warned that the downgrade of Eskom by ratings agencies will hamper growth and will hit consumers hard. This could also mean that electricity prices will go up next quarter as Eskom is due to review its annual tariff increases. Eskom was downgraded by all major ratings agencies last year. But government has warned that it will be tough on state-owned enterprises - especially with regard to corporate governance. Morafe Tabane reports....
The platinum capital of the Bafokeng Kingdom - Phokeng village near Rustenburg in the North West Province is gearing up to host the ANC's 104th anniversary. Thousands of ANC supporters are expected to flock to Rustenburg on Saturday to listen in as President Jacob Zuma delivers the party's January 8 statement at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium. Members of the ANC National Executive have arrived in the area and begun to engage communities as a build to the weekend's festivities. Sentleeng Lehihi reports…
Opposition parties in the national parliament in Cape Town have lamented the poor performance in matric pass rates in the three former homelands provinces of KwaZulu-Natala, Limpopo and the Eastern Cape. Even the majority party in parliament, the ANC has acknowledged the unfortunate decline as compared to well resourced provinces such Western Cape and Gauteng in particular. Our Senior Reporter in Parliament Abongwe Kobokana has filed this report.
Several political parties in parliament say they are worried about the stalemate in the negotiations between South Africa and the US, over the African Growth and Opportunity Act, known as AGOA. Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies says government has made some significant progress on the negotiations despite the failure to meet the deadlines. Some political parties are hopeful that a win-win solution will be achieved soon, while others are critical of what they see as South Africa's poor negotiating skills. Our Reporter in Parliament Abongwe Kobokana compiled this report.
The JSE closed lower, except for the gold mining index, which rose by 6-point-4 percent on the back of a firmer gold price. The JSE's decline came amidst renewed concerns over China's economic slowdown as well as escalating tensions in the Middle East. Nadir Thokan, analyst at 27four investment speaks to Sakina Kamwendo
The JSE closed lower, except for the gold mining index, which rose by 6-point-4 percent on the back of a firmer gold price. The JSE's decline came amidst renewed concerns over China's economic slowdown as well as escalating tensions in the Middle East. Markets in the U.S. closed also lower, with the Dow Jones losing 1-point-6 percent -- its worst start to the year since 2008. This, as U.S. manufacturing data weakened unexpectedly in December, which followed weaker-than-expected Chinese manufacturing data. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to markets analyst, Clive Ramathibela.
Meanwhile, the King's family insists that King Dalindyebo is still the Abathembu king for as long as the certificate of recognition is not withdrawn by government. Fundiswa Mhlekude has more...
It's an anxious wait for thousands of matriculants ahead of the release of their results later today (tuesday 5 January). Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga will officially announce the 2015 Matric results in Midrand, north of Johannesburg at 6pm this evening. The Department of Basic Education has confirmed that the 2015 pass rate has dropped, compared to the previous year. A record number of over 800-thousand Grade 12 learners sat for the 2015 final year exams, 120-thousand more than the previous year. Wisani Makhubele has more......
Nadir Thokan , analyst at 27four Investment looks at Saudi Arabian budget released last week and why that is relevant to South Africa, Stock pick ideas for 2016 and the impact of higher interest rates in the US
The African National Congress will be celebrating its 104th anniversary this weekend in Rustenburg in North West. As the party will today be intensifying its campaigns around the entire Bojanala region as part of a build up to the event, we look at the party's performance in both the last national and local government elections in the North West. Our political reporter Patrick Dintwa compiled this report...
AbaThembu Royal Council says a successor to the recently jailed king Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo has been chosen. The Council says they are currently attending a number of royal meetings in the aim of announcing King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's successor. For more we are joined on the line by was Chief Dalidumo Mtirara.
Transport Minister Dipuo Peters says law enforcement officers will continue to mount roadblocks to ensure that the country's roads are safe even after the festive season. Thousands of holidaymakers and migrant workers are travelling back to Gauteng and other provinces after the December holidays. Peters, who has been speaking to the SABC at the Capricorn toll plaza outside Polokwane in Limpopo, says she is satisfied with the manner in which traffic officers are dealing with motorists who are dis-obeying the traffic rules. Witness Tiva reports.....
Markets Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at, Asian stocks which are headed toward the biggest drop in three months as investors started the new year looking for safety amid renewed signs of a slowdown in China, Emerging-market stocks tumbled the most in three weeks and currencies slid and what to look out for in the local and emerging markets in 2016
Expelled DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard's fate will be decided by the party's federal legal commission in Johannesburg today. Kohler Barnard is appealing her expulsion from the DA after she was found guilty for bringing the name of the party into disrepute and for contravening its social media policy. This comes after Kohler Barnard shared a Facebook post calling for the return of former Apartheid state president PW Botha. Mercedes Besent
ANC Member of Parliament and former spokesperson Jackson Mthembu has accused Journalists of supporting the ZumaMustFall campaign and marches. In a weekly ANC newsletter Mthembu charged that the way in which the ZumaMustFall was covered followed the classic propaganda model. He says the media created a narrative that South Africa was doomed and Journalists followed on this line with their posts on social media. Senior Political Reporter Angela Bolowana reports...
- Asian markets sudbdued by a strong dollar overnight upsetting most of the Asian currencies
- Japanese Yen helps export numbers to increase as the Chinese Yuan continues to slide despite approval by the IMF
- Rand volatility continues despite better perfomance by the JSE
The city of Tshwane will be hard on those selling fireworks illegally. The city says it will subject those found guilty to a fine of 2 thousand rand found using them without the approval of the municipality. Thousand of people are expected to be igniting firecrackers during the festive season. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Metro Police Department spokesperson, Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba
The convicted abaThembu King, Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, must this week hand himself over to prison authorities to start a 12-year prison sentence. King Dalindyebo is a nephew of the late first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela. King Buyelekhaya belonged to the ANC's liberation armed wing UMkhonto Wesizwe. He spent years in exile with his father King Sabatha Dalindyebo. When he came back from exile, he was assigned to lead the Tembu nation. He however committed crimes that have led him to his conviction of twelve years imprisonment. He admitted to the nation that he is a sinner as our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi reports……
A panel discussion leading up to Reconciliation Day celebrations revealed that more is to be done to achieve reconciliation in South Africa. The year was highlighted by turmoil with violent service delivery protests, attacks on foreign national owned businesses and mass student protests. Reconciliation day discussion, initiated by the department of arts and culture, addressed various issues and reflected on challneges the country face. Jayed-leigh Paulse reports
Civil society organisation Section 27 has confirmed that it has been granted permission to march in the Johannesburg CBD today. It is demanding the resignation of President Zuma. A Zuma-Must-Fall-march is also planned at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Corruption Watch has organised a march in Cape Town. The Unite Against Corruption movement will protest close to Parliament. Another march will take place in Port Elizabeth. Godfrey Phiri one of the organisers
President Jacob Zuma has called on the public to report abuse, neglect and exploitation of elderly persons. He was speaking during his visit to the Lodewyk P. Spies Home in Eersterust east of Pretoria yesterday, this as part of promoting care and support for older persons. President Zuma also handed over certificates of recognition and gifts to elders who wrote stories about their personal experiences. Amos Phago reports...
Provincial Veterinary Services in Limpopo have detected an outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth disease in cattle in the Matiane community, in the Thulamela local municipality of the Vhembe District. The Thulamela Local Municipality is within the country's FMD protection zone where vaccination for the disease is routinely conducted. SAkina Kamwendo speaks to Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana.
Marches against President Jacob Zuma will go ahead despite the change in the Finance Ministry. The President appointed Pravin Gordan back as minister of Finance to quell the uproar that followed the appointment of the little-known Member of Parliament David Van Rooyen. A number of marches have been organised for Wednesday in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Pretoria. Senior Reporter Angela Bolowana reports
The only surviving victim of the triple family murder in Katlehong on Gauteng's East Rand says she wants justice to prevail. Nthabiseng Letsoalo survived a brutal attack at the hands of her two cousins. The other three victims, two teenage girls and a seven month old baby, were assaulted and their bodies tossed inside a bathtub full of boiling water. Neliswa Mavundla reports
New UDM deputy President Khanyisile Litchfield Tshabalala has big plans for the party and says she will be doing things differently. Litchfield-Tshabalala was elected to be second in command at the party's elective congress over the weekend. She beat chief whip Nqabayomzi Kwankwa by 65 votes. Litchfield-Tshabalala joined the party barely six months ago after she was expelled by the EFF. UDM President Bantu Holomisa was returned to position by an overwhelming majority. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Khanyisile Litcfhield Tshabalala
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Japanese Stocks Fall as Rout in U.S. and Europe Spreads to Asian markets
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The fears of the FEDs interest rate hike continue to cause havoc in the Emerging Markets
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What does the new carbon emissions agreement mean to the world
The PAC has retained its top leadership at its 10th Elective Congress in Molapoamogale, near KwaMhlanga, in Mpumalanga. Luthando Mbinda remains party president, while Narius Moloto, holds the powerful position of Secretary-General. The conference comes at a time when the party is plagued by factionalism which has seen several leaders being removed. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
President Jacob Zuma has called for unity amongst ANC members. Zuma has been addressing the last day of the Mpumalanga 12th ANC Elective Conference at Mbombela stadium. Vusi Twala reports
The newly appointed Finance Minister David Van Rooyen has lost his job after just four days in office. He is now replaced by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Pravin Gordhan. President Jacob Zuma removed Van Rooyen from his portfolio last night and appointed him the new Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs which was earlier led by Gordhan. Van Rooyen took over from Nhlanhla Nene last Wednesday. But his appointment was met with fierce criticism from within government, business, opposition parties and even some within the ANC. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports
Ratings Agency Moody's says it will closely monitor any potential policy implications of the move by President Jacob Zuma to remove Nhlanhla Nene as the country's finance minster. It says fiscal policies are an important factor in its assessment of a country's credit profile. The agency cited earlier this week that lack of sufficient capital inflows into the country will affect the rand negatively. Morafe Tabane reports
A delegation from the ANC's National Working Committee is in Durban to meet with a group of disgruntled KwaZulu-Natal party members. This comes after protesters twice marched to the provincial offices demanding a rerun of the provincial elective conference. Supporters of ousted provincial chairperson Senzo Mchunu claim there were irregularities in the conference that elected Sihle Zikalala and his slate last month. Meanwhile, a group of ANC members in the party's uMlazi zone have vowed to boycott the ANC's eThekwini regional conference citing manipulation of branches. Zanele Buthelezi report
Hundreds of people have gathered in the Ethekwini Community Church in Durban to celebrate the life of former Ukhozi fm sports commentator and actor Shadrack Ngema. Sixty five year old Ngema died after a short illness last Saturday. He had won the hearts of many people in the SABC 1 sitcom Emzini Wezinsizwa as Magubane the traditional healer. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
the United Democratic Movement is looking to reenginneer itself as it celebrates 18 years of existence. The party is starting early - using the weekend's congress to launch its 2016 local government manifesto and to fine tune its game plan in what is expected to be a fierce contest. President Bantu Holomisa is again standing for reelection - arguing he is no political dinosaur and in fact he is at the top of his game....Our deputy Political Editor Mahlatse Gallens sat down with Holomisa and filed this report.
Several motor licensing centres in Johannnesburg have been closed due to a strike by staff members affiliated to workers union- SAMWU. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to sabc senior reporter, Tshepo Phagane....
Power utility Eskom says they are studying the Supreme Court of Appeal's Judgement that states that the 5-billion rand tender awarded to French nuclear company Areva NP Incorporated, is unlawful. The power utility says it will explore options to challenge the judgement as soon as they have scrutinized it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom's spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
The SABC in partnership with the Department of Basic Education has launched the 2015 Matric Results service. Matric students can now register to receive their results through SMS and USSD lines as soon as they are released. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC Education Digital Media Project Manager, Eric Muragana...
EFF’s Dali Mpofu speaks to Sakina Kamwendo about leadership that is needed in the country because a democratic country depends on strong institutions.
Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo, Nqabayomzi kwankwa UDM Member of parliament says it is important to stabilise economy of the country. Kwankwa says the way in which finances are handled determines whether investors will invest or not.
Cope leader Mosiwa Lekota speaks about recent cabinet reshuffle of Finance Minister Nhlahla Nene and how the country is run.
DA leader Musi Maimane speaks to SAfm's Sakina Kamwendo about consequences that the country is going to face following President Jacob Zuma’s decision to recall Nhlanhla Nene as Finance Minister.
The National Union of Mineworkers says it hopes that Anglo American's restructuring plans will not affect its companies that are based in South Africa. On Tuesday, Anglo American announced that it planned to cut its global workforce by 60-thousand people to 102-thousand by 2017. The company is also planning to sell its coal assets in South Africa. The NUM has accused the mining company of not engaging with unions before going public about its plans. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM deputy general-secretary, William Mabapa...
- Asian markets in the negative and the commodities gain
- Its all gone wrong for the worlds biggest mining company Anglo American
- Thursday Investment Theme: short term insurance, why is it necessary?
- Comments on the cabinet reshuffle
Although parts of South Africa have received some rain this summer, farmers say it is not enough to break the current drought the country is experiencing. Already the government has declared five provinces disaster areas for agriculture. To assess the outlook for the agricultural sector, in particular maize, which is a staple food for many people, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chief Executive Officer of Grain-SA, Jannie de Villiers.
The Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that the 5 billion rand Eskom tender awarded to French nuclear company Areva NP Incorporated is unlawful and procedurally unfair citing irregular administration. The so called "never ending tender" involves a controversial R5-billion refurbishment of steam generators at Koeberg nuclear power plant. Areva won the contract last year despite strong recommendations by Eskom's technical and executive teams being in favour of Japanese-American company Westinghouse. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to energy expert Chris Yelland…
Replacing Nhlanhla Nene with someone who comes outside of Treasury and is is not familiar with the country’s finances and budget at this stage of the country’s economy is ludicrous.
President Jacob Zuma has replace Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene with former Merafong Mayor David Van Rooyen without giving any reason. The president thanked Nene for his commitment on his job during difficult economic times in the country.
Economists and market analysts have expressed shock at the replacement of finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene with a lesser known Douglas Des Van Rooyen. The announcement saw the rand weaken further to touch 15 rand to the US dollar briefly. Market analysts say the local currency is likely to overreact to the news until there's more clarity over President Jacob Zuma's unexpected decision to recall Nene. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu PF says the upcoming party conference will not result in any leadership changes. The party says the conference will instead review the progress made in implementing the party's economic blueprint- ZIMASSET. The 15th Annual People's Conference due to officially open in resort town of Victoria Falls on Friday comes a year after a watershed Congress that purged the ruling party of senior leaders accused of trying to oust long time ruler president Robert Mugabe. Shingai Nyoka reports
The City of Ekurhuleni is now allowing members of the public and companies bidding for tenders to sit and observe the tender adjudication proceedings .Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Councillor Moses Makwakwa about promoting transparency and effective administration.
The Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa, is leading the South African delegation to the High Level Segment of the COP 21 climate change conference in Paris. Delegates are working hard to produce a universal, legally binding agreement that will enable countries to effectively combat the impact of climate change. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Minister Edna Molewa about some of the silent aspects of the COP 21 agreements.
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela joins us on the line
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U.S. stocks declined, tracking a selloff in equity markets around the world, on renewed worries about the prospects for global growth
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Rand Drop Pushes South African Assets Abroad at Record Pace
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Why SMME's continue to register despite the tough economic conditions
Nerina Vissar, Strategist at ETF SA looks at Anglo suspending dividends until end of 2016, South African Reserve Bank bulletin confirms basis for credit downgrades and how the drought is affecting the country.
Calls by Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump that Muslims be banned from entering the country is receiving push back from the White House to his fellow candidates. Trump made the call after attack on St Bernardino,California in which two suspects sympathetic to ISS killed 14 people and injured 21. The White House says Trumps remarks disqualified him to be president. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports....
- China exports fell for fifth month and a slump in imports expanded to 13 months
- Emerging ,markets stocks continue to struggle as the rout in oil prices worsens
- Iron ore prices tumbled to 30 dollars as miners prices approach break even cost
Ministers from almost 200 countries are in Paris for COP21 to hammer out a new global climate deal. A draft negotiating text was agreed at the weekend. However financing, which would help developing countries cope with the effects of climate change, has been a key sticking point at the conference. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Penny-Jane Cooke, an Environmental justice activist at Greenpeace.
About a hundred members of the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) and community members have embarked on a peaceful march to Bongani Hospital in Welkom in the northern Free State in demand of better health care services. The march was led by TAC in the Free State, and their demands include a meeting with the provincial Health Department to discuss what they've termed ongoing problems at Bongani hospital. Konelo Lekhafola reports ...
Almost 80 boys have been rescued from illegal initiation schools across Gauteng. Co-operative governance and traditional affairs department spokesperson, Motsamai Motlhaolwa, says since November 30th, a total of 59 initiates aged between 10 and 23 have been rescued from illegal initiation schools in Orange Farm, Sebokeng and Fochville. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Cape, a reported 13 initiates have died this summer initiation season. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the deputy chairperson of the National House of Traditional Leaders and the head of the National Initiation Task Team, Nkosi, Sipho Mahlangu...
The National Prosecuting Authority will call for a minimum sentence of 15 years for Oscar Pistorius when he appears in the High Court in Pretoria this morning. The paralympian is currently on parole after being jailed for culpable homicide, but the judgement was changed to murder last week at the Supreme Court of Appeal. NPA spokesperson Luvuyo Mfaku says Pistorius's brief appearance could see a bail application as well as a date being set...
Victims of women abuse believe that 16 Days of No Violence against Women and Children campaign has no effect in the rural villages of the Eastern Cape. This emerged during a recent Imbizo held in Bityi oustside Mthatha organised by various departments. They say abuse cases continue unabated in far flung rural areas. They believe the solution lies in concrete partnership between law enforcement agencies and the communities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book. Our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi visited the area and filed this report...
- The market was generally strong yesterday, although it did decline into the close. But it seems the oil price is on a slippery slope - what caused the latest slump towards $40?
- The slowdown in China has been one of the major factors driving commodity prices lower this year, but the other factor has been the strength in the US dollar. How much longer must SA, and other emerging markets, endure this double whammy - will it ever turn around?
- One of the big company stories was that Steinhoff has moved its primary listing from the JSE to Frankfurt yesterday - is this good or bad news for SA investors?
The bail hearing of five learners from Efata School for the Blind and Deaf in the Mthatha magistrate's court in the Eastern Cape has been characterised by a number of challenges . They face a charge of murder after the body of deputy principal was found in her house on the premises. The suspects have denied making statements to the investigating officers, alleging that a sign language interpreter could not properly translate what they said. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports……
Convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius returns to the High Court in Pretoria on Tuesday after the National Prosecution Authority's successful appeal. Last week, the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein overturned his culpable homicide conviction. The National Prosecuting Authority says the matter will be formally postponed so that a date for sentencing proceedings can be set. Neo Makwiting filled this reports presented by Asande Mtame...
Skywise is looking for people to invest in the airline. This follows the latest suspension of the airline's flights by the Airports Company of South Africa for unpaid take-off, landing, parking and related service charges by Skywise. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the airline's Co-Chair of the airline, Tabassum Qadir.
According to a weekend newspaper, the Department of Basic Education is set to review the influence the teacher union and the School Governing Bodies have on the appointments made. This follows an investigation into jobs-for-cash which was instituted last year. The task team appointed to look into the matter will be handing over its findings to the Minister of Basic Eduction, Angie Motshekga, in two weeks time. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga.
Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA looks at the JSE ended the week on a very negative note last week by erasing all of its gains for the year, the expectation of increasing rates in the US continues to weigh on emerging markets, including South Africa and the China-Africa.
Oscar Pistorius has been found guilty of murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) overturned the Pretoria high court judgement. It found that Judge Thokozile Masipa incorrectly applied the principles of dolus eventualis. Judge Eric Leach found that failure by Judge Masipa to take into account the evidence of police ballistics expert Major Chris Mangena, must be regarded as an error of law. Sakina Kamwendo to Criminal Law Expert, William Booth.
- Asian stocks slumped as disenchantment with the European Central Bank's stimulus decision reverberated across global markets
- All 10 industry groups in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index fell, with technology companies including Samsung Electronics Co. leading the drop
- SA will survive a ratings downgrade if it goes ahead
Parliament's presiding officers have come out in defence of police action against striking NEHAWU members. Speaker Baleka Mbete and NCOP chair Thandi Modise said they had to act when the work of parliament was being hindered. They were both addressing the Cape Town Press Club. Joseph Mosia reports...
President Jacob Zuma says the 6th China-Africa Forum starting in Johannesburg today is a business meeting of equal partners and not a gathering called to ask help from China. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr David Monyae, Co- Director at the University of Johannesburg's Confucius institute
President Jacob Zuma says the 6th China-Africa Forum starting in Johannesburg today is a business meeting of equal partners and not a gathering called to ask help from China. The president and over 50 other African leaders will meet with their Chinese counterpart Xi Jin Ping and his government and business delegation later this morning. They will discuss development and ensure a more secure and more inclusive environment. Our Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo
- Again the South African Chamber of Commerce released its November Business Confidence for November, things are not looking good at this stage.
- MTN's fine in Nigeria has been reduced to $3,4billion. Is it now palatable? What will be fine mean for Nigeria's finances going forward?
- We often talk about how over indebted households are. Are we perpetuating the culture of indebtedness? Should we change this narrative?
Former child star Ricardo Groenewald has been remembered as a perfectionist and hard worker during his memorial service in Cape Town last night. Ricardo became a household name following the release of his hit song "I Love You Daddy" in 1987. He was eight at the time. Thandiswa Mawu report
The strike at waste management company, Pikitup has ended. This comes after an intervention by Gauteng Co-operative Governance MEC Jacob Mamabolo, who brokered a deal between municipal union Samwu and Pikitup management. Jamaine Krige reports...
Management of budget airline, Skywise will brief the media This morning, this after the Airports Company of South Africa suspended its operations for failing to pay airport fees. Angry passengers were left stranded following the suspension yesterday. Two-hundred jobs could be lost if the airline does not get back in the sky. Eight-thousand passengers remain uncertain of their festive season travel arrangements. Skywise could join the likes of Velvet Sky and 1time which both closed for business in 2012. Morafe Tabane reports
The Nelson Mandela Foundation is this week celebrating the life and times of Nelson Mandela. This week marks two years since Tata Madiba's death and joining in on the celebrations is Britain's Prince Henry. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation , Sello Hatang
markets analyst Clive Ramathibela
TALKING POINTS
- Asian stocks declined, led by technology and material companies, after U.S. manufacturing unexpectedly contracted, clouding the outlook for the Federal Reserve's interest-rate outlook
- U.S. stocks slipped as crude plunged past $40 a barrel, sparking a slide in energy producers
- Setas to be absorbed into higher education department, with skills levy being used as government sees fit
- Thursday Investment theme: Manufacturing, Clothing and Textile Industries!
A new pill for treating TB in children has been unveiled at the 46th Union World Conference on Lung Health currently underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The child friendly TB medicine, is regarded as a major milestone in the fight against childhood TB. Lulama Matya reports.....
World leaders are continuing their deliberations on Climate Change in Paris, France, for COP21, a conference on climate change that will, for the first time, work toward a legally binding and universal agreement to curtail the threat of global warming. With any luck, the 25,000 delegates from governments and agencies around the world, will arrive at an agreement that could mean better days are ahead for our planet. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Bob Scholes , Systems Ecologist at the University of the Witwatersrand.
There is still no resolution to the on-going Pikitup strike which has left Johannesburg in a dump. The strike, which is estimated to be costing the city 2 million rand a day continues. Johannesburg's mayoral committee member responsible for the environment and infrastructure, Tshidi Mfikoe, says she is not impressed by Samwu members who are taking part in the illegal strike.
Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions Nomgcobo Jiba has filed a replying affidavit to a DA motion in the Cape Town High Court to have her suspended pending an inquiry into her fitness to hold office. Jiba says she has not done anything that requires the president to suspend or institute an inquiry against her. Joseph Mosia reports...
- A few months ago, the Security Exchange Commission penalized Hitachi for inappropriate practices in their arrangement with Chancellor House, around Eskom. Now the AfDB is following suit. What does this mean for a fight for against corruption?
- China and SA signed deals yesterday aimed at boosting trade and investment between the two countries. What does this translate to? Is it sufficient to address our challenges?
- We often talk about household indebtedness, despite this it's always seem like a norm to be indebted. Would it help if we change the narrative?
The case against a high ranking ANC official who is facing a charge of murder, will return to the Winburg magistrates' court in the Free State next Friday. Thirty-six year old Thato Maphobole was arrested on Sunday for allegedly killing his 26 year old wife and setting her body alight at a dumping site. He is a director of corporate services at Tokologo Local Municipality. Thabiso Radebe reports......
About 25 Kenyan political activists were arrested in Nairobi as they attempted to reach State House in Nairobi, President Uhuru Kenyatta's official residence, to hand over a petition demanding an end to corruption in the country. Earlier, the activists held streets protests in the city demanding that President Kenyatta acts and fires those involved in corruption. They also want the Kenyan government to recover all stolen assets. Sarah Kimani reports.
Zimbabwe and China have signed a series of new bilateral co-operation agreements during the ongoing state visit by Chinese president Xi JinPing. President JinPing arrived in Zimbabwe is on a two day he is accompanied by a large delegation of Chinese investors and business people. Zimbabwe and China have historic ties dating back to the Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, ties that have been strengthened since 2000 when the West isolated Zimbabwe over human rights abuses. Shingai Nyoka reports.
The Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe has called on the media to use media cooperation between China and Africa to tell good stories about the continent. Radebe was addressing the China-Africa Media Summit at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Lulama Matya reports
A 36-year old high ranking Tokologo Local Municipality official in the Free State is to appear in the Winburg Magistrate Court for allegedly murdering and burning the body of his 26 year old wife. The charred remains of his wife were found at a dumping site in the area. Thabiso Radebe reports.
The most important climate conference ever, has kicked off in Paris. COP21, the 21st Conference of the Parties, entered its first full session yeterday with nearly 150 heads of state in attendance. The overarching goal of COP 21 is to create a global framework for countries to reduce their carbon emissions, so that the average global temperature does not increase by more than 2°C. The UN's climate agency says an increase greater than that will be catastrophic for the world's life support systems. Oceans will warm and storms will become more frequent and damaging. Sea levels will rise and ice caps will melt. Sakina Kamwendo author and authority on Climate Change, Professor Patrick Bond.
- Asian stocks fell as Chinese shares were whipsawed after their biggest one-day selloff in three months
- The IMF will add the yuan to its basket of reserve currencies, an international stamp of approval of the strides China has made integrating into a global economic system dominated for decades by the U.S., Europe and Japan
- Naspers Ltd. plans to increase its exposure to U.S. technology start-ups as Africa's biggest company by market value seeks to limit the impact of a U.S. interest-rate rise and identify new Internet growth prospects
Televangelist and Senior Pastor of Nigerian church, TB Joshua, has been summoned by the Lagos High Court to answer to charges over the collapse of his six story church building in September 2014. Many South Africans were killed during the incident which led to many calling for action against Joshua. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to reporter in Nigeria , Ahazia Suleiman.
South African President Jacob Zuma has addressed world leaders at the start of a major climate change summit - saying developed countries have a "egal obligation to help developing nations. More than 140 world leaders have attended the opening of COP21. Delegates are aiming to secure agreements to ensure greenhouse gas emissions do not rise by more than 2 degrees celsius. Our correspondent Dan Whitehead reports
Sports Scientist and banting-proponent, Professor Tim Noakes, will only begin to defend his contentious views on nutrition when a hearing into his conduct resumes next year. The Health Professions Council of South Africa has instituted charges of misconduct against him after he advised a mother on Twitter to wean her newborn baby on a low-carb high-fat diet last year. The hearing, which started last week, had been set down for seven days, however the HPCSA's last minute request to call additional witnesses led to it being postponed to the eight of February next year. Sisanda Nkoala reports
Striking employees of waste management company Pikitup, affiliated to trade union Samwu have vowed to continue until their demands are met. Samwu officials have met with Pikitup management, where the employer requested the workers to go back to work while they try to resolve their issues. But workers say they refuse to be bullied. Horisani Sithole reports
- COSATU adopted a minimum wage as one of its resolutions and there's a likely announcement of the adoption at government level next year. What could be the impact on the economy?
- Truworths has announced that its entering the UK retail market with an acquisition of Official Retail Group. What does this mean for the local industry?
- SARS announced disappointing trade deficit results for October. What can we read into this
South Africa's is among six countries where over half the world's adolescents living with HIV can be found. This was sighted by Simon Bland- a senior United Nations AIDS official, quoting a recent UN Children's Fund study that found the number of adolescent deaths from AIDS-related illnesses has tripled since 2000. To mark World Aids Day, The World Health Organisation and the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS has emphasized expanding Anti Retroviral Therapies to all people living with the virus is key to ending the epidemic by 2030. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
- Asian Stocks Slide After Chinese Selloff as Material Shares Drop
- South Africa's petrol pump price to stay flat in December
- Challenges in the toys industry as festive season kicks off!
Has South African Airways descended to a point of no return? Or Can the National carrier recalibrate its course? We ask these questions in the wake of a list of issues plaguing the airline. Aside from pilots delivering a vote of confidence in SAA's leadership, there have been top-level resignations and great concern over the restructuring an existing airbus deal that may sink the airline. Host of AM Live, Sakina Kamwendo speaks to South African Airways board member Dr John Tambi, Chairwoman of SAA's audit and risk committee Yakhe Kwinana and Guy Leitch, Aviation expert, Editor and Publisher of SA Flyer Magazine.
The office of the Public Protector has revealed that, among the corruption cases it's been investigating this year, North West province tops the list. At least five municipalities in the province are under administration, amid alleged maladministration, mismanagement of finances and corruption. Also, four provincial departments have been placed under financial administration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Public Protector, Kevin Malunga
Africa's biggest Aids conference has begun in Harare, Zimbabwe. The International Conference on AIDS and STI's in Africa (ICASA), will draw close to 4000 experts and government officials from around the continent. It comes amidst warnings that the continent risks loosing ground in its fight if the programmes are not intensified. Sarah Kimani reports....
BLACK economic empowerment should remain policy until the economy is transformed and black people have more ownership. The chief executive officer of the National Empowerment Fund Philisiwe Mthethwa says the NEF is an agency of the department of Trade and Industry and is the only development finance institution exclusively mandated to grow broad-based black economic empowerment.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says despite the terrorist attacks in Paris two weeks ago, the Climate Change summit starting in the French capital today, will succeed. He was addressing the media on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Malta. In 2011 world leaders agreed to have a universally legally binding Climate Change agreement by the end of 2015. And Ban says they cannot afford to postpone that commitment any longer. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports…
The quest to fast track media transformation and diversity has been bolstered with the launch of the Forum of Journalists for Transformation. Senior journalists and photographers met in Johannesburg yesterday to explore ways to transform racially skewed media ownership and negative narrative. Senior Political Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports...
The Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe, says African local governments need to invest in proper urban planning and management systems in all urban areas. He says the existence and continuous increase of informal settlements in cities shows there's insufficient planning for growth coupled with insufficient resources to provide housing options for urban dwellers. Radebe was giving a key note address at the 7th Africities summit which officially started in Sandton north of Johannesburg on Sunday. Tshepo Phagane reports …
Former Central African Republic President Francois Bozize is determined to return to his home country to contest the December elections. Bozize was speaking to the SABC as Pope Francis concluded his visit to Uganda and headed to the war torn CAR. Pope Francis is in the country to promote peace, tolerance and reconciliation for the country split between Muslims and Christians. This is Francis' first visit to an active war zone. Deputy political editor Mahlatse Gallens reports ...
Gauteng police will investigate if the taxi involved in a crash where 19 people died on the R-28 between Westonaria and Vereeniging was overloaded. The cause of the crash is not yet clear, but it's believed the the taxi had a tyre burst before colliding with a truck, and caught fire. Horisani Sithole reports ..
Gautrain services between Hatfield and Pretoria has been disrupted this weekend due to an accident that was caused by a cement truck. Spokesperson for Gautrain Kesagee Nayager says the truck overturned hit the fence and ended up on the rail line, which therefore affected the overheard power cables.
The Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa says she will appeal the Pretoria High Court's decision to set aside the 2009 rhino horn trade moratorium. This follows a court decision to grant rhino breeders John Hume and Johan Krüger to set aside the moratorium because of lack of proper consultation to members of the public. Meanwhile on of the applicant John Hume was quoted as saying this was this judgement is momentous and that he will fight any appeal by the government. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Attorney representing him, Seymore Du ToitT & Basson in Nelspruit, Izak Du Toit
Thousands people in different parts of the world are expected to take part in different events ahead of COP21 climate summit this coming Monday. More than 2000 events are planned across 150 countries. According to 350.org, there will be huge marches, concerts, rallies, workshops, bike rides and film screenings spanning all continents. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ferrial Adam, who is a Team Leader at 350.org.
- Lets talk about the future prospects for residential property company Balwin
- Business confidence numbers that came out yesterday
- What to expect at the OPEC meeting next week
South Africans are warned to brace themselves for a recession next year. The Chief Economist at Economists.co.za, Mike Schussler attributes the next year's recession to the latest visa restrictions as well as the drought, as some of the reasons why the country could be pushed into a recession.
A new trend of exposing alleged sexual predators and perpetrators on social media is emerging. Some rape victims say they find it somewhat therapeutic to out their attackers publicly. In the latest incident, an international activist who was allegedly raped in Cape Town, named her attacker on Facebook, which led to an investigation by the police. There's been mixed reaction to this phenomenon. While gender rights activists say victims reclaim their voice and dignity, legal experts argue that one is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. To help make sense of both sides of the conversation, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Media lawyer at Lionel Murray Schwormstedt & Louw Attorneys Notaries and Conveyancers, Jacques Louw
- Lets talk about the GDP numbers that came out yesterday
- Arcellormittal surging 50% yesterday
- Corporate default on debt in a rising interest rate environment
The Constitutional Court is expected to pronounce on whether it can give a lesbian Church Minister her job back. Ecclesia De Lange was fired by the Methodist Church of South Africa after she announced her intention to marry her same-sex partner. The court heard arguments three months ago. Senior Constitutional Court reporter, Candice Nolan filed this report on the hearing....
The communities of Bergsig, Kamieskroon and Komaggas in the Northern Cape say they feel marginalized and forgotten as they continue to battle high levels of unemployment and poverty twenty one years into South Africa's democracy. This comes as NGO, Gift of the Givers began the first leg of its week long distribution of food parcels to over three thousand disadvantaged families in the province ahead of the festive season. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to community leader in the area, Rev Earl Richards…
While the country is experiencing water shortage, a burst pipe in Howick in KwaZulu Natal province has allegedly been gushing kilolitres of water everyday for the last 17 years. Duzi uMgeni Conservation Trust member Liz Taylor, says this is due to poorly maintained infrastructure.
Five provinces that are declared drought disaster areas in South Africa will soon experience an increase in water related diseases. This is according to the South African Medical Association (SAMA). The country's persistent heat wave of maximum temperatures close to 40 degrees Celsius has caused a lot of harm in food production. Dr Mzukisi Grootboom, who is the Chairperson of SAMA says these extreme weather patterns will eventually result in floods, droughts and heat waves.
- Lets talk about the pfeizer and allergan merger
- The impact of the drought on inflation
- Netcare results that came out yesterday
There have been long delays at the National Congress of Cosatu taking place in Midrand north of Johannesburg. Chaos erupted following Food and Allied Workers Union FAWU and clothing union SACCAWU objecting to the presence of Second deputy President Zingiswa Losi and new metalworkers union Limusa in the meeting on the basis of the labour federation's constitution. The matter was eventually settled by a show of hands as Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports…
The struggle for farmers labouring in the increasingly hot and dry conditions could come to an end if unlocking the genetic codes of drought-tolerant plants is successful. A South African Scientist, from the University of Cape Town, Professor Jill Farrant, is leading global research into developing crops that can survive extreme water shortages. These crops are said to have similar surviving skills in extreme drought as resurrection plants.
- Asian markets open the week in the positive, following similar or unchanged sentiments from Fridays FED minutes
- European Stocks Rise Amid Growth Optimism
- Over-priced technology stocks, are they worth your while?
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Cosatu will be looking to reclaim its badge of honour as the worker's champion at this week's National Congress taking place in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. The labour federation has been ravaged by infighting over the last three years that has claimed two high profile casualties in the form of former General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi, and union NUMSA. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sdumo Dlamini, President of Cosatu
The Tshwane University of Technology, has suspended exams scheduled for today (Monday), after students went on the rampage at its Soshanguve campus, north of Pretoria over the weekend. The institution's spokespeson Willa de Ruyter, says following a meeting of management at the institution yesterday, a decision was taken to postpone examinations. Three halls were set alight during a protest. Sakina kamwendo spoke to TUT spokesperson, Willa de Ruyter
The Chairperson of the Commission that are investigating the churches - Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva - says she fears for her life as Pastors who are being investigated come to meetings heavily armed. The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of Cultural Religious and Linguistic Communities was established to investigate allegations of commercialisation of religion and the abuse of people's beliefs. Mkhwanazi-Xaluva says her team is not going to be discouraged by these threats. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to her
- Lets talk about JSE corporate cash balances
- The woes facing platinum prices
- Netcare earnings coming out today
African Union Commission Chairperson - Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma - says eradicating poverty and injustices is pivotal in efforts to fight terrorism and establish sustainable peace. Dlamini-Zuma said this when she accepted the 2015 Africa Peace Award on behalf of the AU at a gala dinner in Durban. She says the award serves as an encouragement to Africans to redouble efforts to build peace and solidarity. The award was presented by the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes - or ACCORD. Zanele Buthelezi reports
Former Cosatu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi Vavi says goverment, the ANC and SACP have been behind his and union NUMSA's expulsion from Cosatu and the resulting disarray in the labour federation. Vavi said this at a media briefing in Johannesburg yesterday where he announced that he will not be making an appeal to next week's Cosatu National Congress that he be returned to his position. . Vavi was expelled from the labour federation in March this year for gross misconduct after he refused to back Cosatu's decision to axe NUMSA. His decision follows that of NUMSA that also abandoned its appeal saying it did not expect a successful outcome. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports…
Lonmin shareholders have thrown the company a lifeline after approving the over 400 million dollar rights issue, to keep the company afloat and strengthen its balance sheet. This comes after the worlds-third largest platinum producer offered the shareholders 27 billion hugely discounted shares to raise the money. The company which faced a five-month strike last year, high input costs and crumbling platinum prices is now in the process of cutting about six thousand jobs as part of its plan to remain operational. Dimakatso Leshoro reports
The fire which has destroyed about 13 structures at Simons Town in False Bay in the Cape Peninsula has been contained. But Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services say while the situation has been brought under control for now, changing wind direction could again see the blaze flare up. Over 300 personnel including Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, Disaster Risk Management and the Navy, among others, were deployed contain the flames. Corbin August reports...
Freedom Front Plus Leader Pieter Mulder is threatening to encourage donors to withdraw their funding from Stellenbosch University should the Afrikaans language be marginalised. Mulder is the latest political leader to voice his concern about attempts to transform the university's' language policy. The DA, ANC and UDM also have their views on the use of Afrikaans at the University, as our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
Multiple attacks less than 24 hours apart left scores dead in Nigeria. Two female suicide bombers have killed at least 15 people in a market in northern Nigeria's main city, Kano. On Tuesday, more than 30 people were killed by a suicide bomber in the north-eastern Yola city in an attack blamed on Boko Hara. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent in Nigeria Sophia Adengo
- Emerging Stock Rally Evaporates as China Growth Concern Returns
- Asian Stocks Gain With Oil as Dollar Falls on Dovish Fed Minutes
- Thursday investment theme: Manufacturing Industry
At least eighteen people are shot dead every day in South Africa. South Africa's homicide rate is alarmingly higher than the global average with firearms being responsible for many of the deaths. This is according to the Gun Free South Africa. The organisation says gun violence remains a big problem in the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for Gun Free SA Adèle Kirsten.....
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
- South African inflation comes out in line with expectations. Let's unpack the numbers..
- U.S. FOMC minutes entrench a view of a December hike
- Japan continues to hold off on stimulus despite recession
The pressure continues to build over the International Criminal Court's relationship with African countries. The court stands accused of being biased. Kenya is reportedly sending a large delegation of MPs to lobby for changes to how the court works, while other countries are likely to want to leave the ICC. The political body of the International Criminal Court - the assembly of States parties' is convening in The Hague, in the Netherlands. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Economic, Cultural and Social Council, Joseph Chilengi...
- Asian markets still very strong this morning ...
- The connection between the weaknes of the rand and the declining commodity prices
- The innovation hubs on the African continent are they a pipe dream or reality
The township of Masiphumelele south of Cape Town, is alleged to be so dangerous that even the members of the Police are scared to enter it. According to media reports, the Police were supposed to establish a mobile police station in the township, but due to continuous violent protests, they are re-assessing their decision. However, the Head of Communications at the Western Cape Police, Brigadier Novela Potelwa strongly denies this. Major General Thembisile Patekile the Western Cape Police spokesperson joins us on the line to tell us more.
Basic Education department is furious at the revelation of a leaked matric life sciences paper two exam paper in Limpopo province. The department says depending on the scale of the leak, either pupils at the affected school could be asked to rewrite the exam or those in the district or in the entire province. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Basic Education spoksperson, Elijah Mhlanga...
- 2 stocks which caught my eyes yesterday, MTN down 1.6% and Woolies up 2.2 %
- SAA executive shuffles remain in the headlines
- Eyes on SA inflation data today
- Asian markets up on the positive following a positive sentiment on emerging markets
- Germany re-invests six billion rand in the manufacturing plant in Pretoria
- The severeign fund searching for opportunity in Africa
- President Jacob Zuma and Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte to review a wide range of bilateral, regional and international issues at a luncheon this afternoon
The parents of students participating in the #feesmustfall campaign at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) want all police and security personnel to be removed from the campuses. This is despite reports that two buildings have been set alight allegedly by protesting students at the University of the Western Cape. The Fees Must Fall Parents Solidarity Committee says they know that their children are not violent or hooligans. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Doreen February , member of the Committee
Pilots of South African Airways (SAA) have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a vote of no confidence in both the chair and non-executive directors of the board. This comes as financial situation at SAA still remains on the spot light wit h the controversial Airbus deal and possible breaches of certain legislation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to John Harty of the SAA Pilot Association.
For an update Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Elizabeth Webster from the South African Weather Services
- Risk appetite returns as U.S stocks rebound
- Average OPEC selling price for oil falls below $40 for first time since 2009
- European inflation numbers tick marginally higher but the case for stimulus is still strong
The City of Joburg - through the Johannesburg roads agency (JRA) - will be spending 1.4 billion rand on the improvement of roads in the 2015/2016 financial year. This includes bridges and storm water drains as part of the city's economic growth and development plan. More than 100 billion rand will be spent over the next decade on infrastructure across the city. Pearl Magubane reports
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the renewed sense of urgency to find a solution to the civil war in Syria after the Paris attacks. Islamic State terror group has claimed responsibility for Friday night's attacks in the French capital, in which at least about 129 people were killed . The need to combat global terrorism has come under sharp focus at the G20 leaders summit currently underway in Turkey. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng is in the southern city of ANTALYA and has filed this report
Police union POPCRU has questioned the way Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police is dealing with the suspended National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega. The union accuses Phiyega's critics of being desperate to get rid of her. This came out at the end of its National Executive Committee meeting in Pretoria at the weekend. Phiyega has been suspended pending the outcome of the Board of Inquiry's investigation into her fitness to hold office. This relates to the killing of 34 mineworkers in Marikana in August 2012. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more
- Asian Stocks Decline as Markets Open Following Paris Attacks
- Shares of airline operators across Asia tumbled on worries that the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris will deter tourists from traveling to the French capital
- What to expect from the G20 Summit in Turkey
The G20 summit which ends today in Turkey is said to present a plenty opportunities to fascilitate Africa's sustainable development agenda. Some of the major concerns raised at the G20 summit by South Africa is the water shortage could have a serious impact on food prices, employment and revenue growth . Meanwhile, one on the gun men in the attack in Paris has been identified by the Police as Omar Ismail Mostefai. Sakina Kamwndo spoke to Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene and Expert in Terror and Islam, Professor Farid Esack.
- Risk aversion supports gold pushes rand to another low 2.Eyes on inflation and the SARB this week
- Japan enters another recession
- Asian Stocks Join Selloff on Commodity Slump With Oil Below $42
- South Africa's largest private hospital group Med clinic International posted a 16 percent jump in half-year earnings and Sappi hits 7-year high on profits
- The strange new norm of financial markets is taking much longer than expected to get used to
Economists warn that the persisting drought threatens economic growth by at least 1 percent. Agricultural production is already feeling the pinch with farmers already adjusting prices to their produce. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist at Econometrix Dr Azar Jammine...
Lonmin shareholders are expected to meet and vote next week, just days after the company announced a massive discount in the shares issued. The embattled company has struggled to stay afloat following the Marikana shootings and protracted platinum strike. Its share price has also been under pressure due to weak demand, high input costs and tumbling commodity prices. Dimakatso Leshoro reports
Suspended National Police Commisioner Riah Phiyega has responded to reports release by the parliamentary portfolio Committee and another by Police Minister Nathi Nhleo. Phiyega says both these reports are unlawful and unethical and she is now seeking legal advice in this regard.
Consumers must brace themselves to pay more for electricity hikes if Eskom gets its way with the National Energy Regulator of SA (Nersa). This is due to an over expenditure of 22.8 billion rand by the power utility during the 2014 financial year. Eskom is now asking permission from the regulator for it to recover those costs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa had to answer pressing questions in the National Assembly yesterday afternoon. The questions he faced included whether he agrees with President Jacob Zuma's comments that the ANC comes first before the country, insufficient funds for the Public Protector's office, Nkandla and about the 2012 Marikana shooting. He told MPs that he has been issued with a summons over the Markana shooting as our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us.
On the Forum@8 tpday we look at the phenomenon of racism in South Africa. Many say it is a subject South Africans cannot afford to wish away. But in his recent article, Political analyst Aubrey Matshiqi says, in post-apartheid SA, racism has assumed a form and content that sickens physically, psychologically and emotionally. Matshiqi says he's been trying hard to retire from the race debate, because he feels it is no longer the racist who is the pariah, but that the pariahs are the ones who, like him, are supposedly race-obsessed, when they try to show that colonial and apartheid racism has mutated into a new, but by no means less virulent form of racism
The Inter-Parliamentary Union is urging Burundi's Parliament not fail in its duty to represent and protect Burundians. This comes amid concerns over the deteriorating political situation following President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial decision to seek a third term in office in April. To discuss this matter further,Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Secretary of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Cameroonian Martin Chungong.
Another province has been declared disaster area due to drought. Mpumalanga will need at least R900m in relief aid joining the ranks of KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, North West and the Free State who have already been declared drought disaster areas. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Pravin Gordhan....
- Asian stocks were little changed after a drop in U.S. shares. A stronger yen weighed on Japanese exporters, while energy companies retreated after a decline in oil
- European stocks climbed, resuming a rally that had stalled earlier this week, amid deal activity and earnings reports
- Currencies from Turkey to South Africa advanced, trimming losses that have weighed on almost every emerging market this month
- Thursday Investment Theme: Property Investments
Ten protesting students have been arrested at the University of the Western Cape after setting a number of campus buildings alight. The University of the Western Cape says it is horrified at the conduct of protesting students who have attacked fellow-students and police and damaged property in the name of the FeesMustFall campaign. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the University of the Western Cape's Rector and Vice Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, the University of the Western Cape's Rector and Vice Chancellor
Police Minister, Nathi Nhleko, says a Ministerial Reference Group has recommended that a board of inquiry - led by a retired judge or senior advocate - should be established to investigate suspended police commissioner, Riah Phiyega. The MRG has travelled the country since July last year, investigating complaints and concerns against Phiyega. Among others, senior members were removed from their positions as deputy National Commissioners without being consulted, and given lower ranks. Zalene Merrington reports.
While Parliament's Joint Rules Committee was meeting to adopt a joint rule to deal with disruptions during joint house sittings, there was chaos on the Parliamentary precinct. This as police attempted to remove striking NEHAWU parliamentary support services staff from the precinct. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Police Minister, Nathi Nhleko, says a Ministerial Reference Group has recommended that a board of inquiry - led by a retired judge or senior advocate - should be established to investigate suspended police commissioner, Riah Phiyega. To unpack this Sakina kamwendo spoke to Gareth Newham of the Institute of Security Studies..
- The big story of the day yesterday was the news that the mega-deal between SABMiller and Anheuser Busch InBev has been confirmed. Talk us through some of the implications for investors.
- On a very different topic, as South Africans we are very aware of the impact the weakness in the rand has on our economy. On the other side of this coin, strength in the dollar, does that only have positive impact on the US economy? 3· I understand that yesterday was "Singles Day" in China. Is this like the antithesis to (opposite of) Valentine's Day, or what is this all about?
The Gauteng and City of Joburg officials are working with aid organisations to assist the 300 families which have been displaced at Msawawa Informal Settlement. Yesterdaya fire destroyed their homes which are built near Kya Sands north of Johannesburg. No one was injured in the incident. Noma Bolani compiled this report.
A soon-to-be-launched BBEE commission has sent out a stern warning to companies that are fronting. The commission says companies and individuals found to be practising bad behaviour and undermining the new BEE regulations and laws could face stiff penalties and up to ten years in jail. Amina Accram reports
The ongoing strike by NEHAWU Parliamentary staff has caused a postponement of the sitting of the National Assembly. Workers say that their current demands do not fall in the two year agreement that was put in place earlier this year. The Union is hopeful management will begin engaging with them soon. We are joined on the line by NEHAWU Chairperson, Sthembiso Tembe for more on this...
President Jacob Zuma has wrapped up his state visit to Germany which is being hailed a success. The president and the German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed a range of issues, including trade and investment, the refugee crisis and climate change. Jack Parrock reports from Berlin
1 Asian stocks fluctuated, with the regional benchmark index trading near the lowest since mid-October, as investors awaited a spate of Chinese data for clues on the extent of the slowdown in the world's second-largest economy 2. Tencent Holdings Ltd. rose in Hong Kong trading after the Internet company posted record third-quarter profit, despite declining economic data on Singles Day 3. Under the hood of South Korea's jobs report Wednesday is a youth unemployment rate so stubbornly high that the government is helping young job seekers look overseas for work, What can we learn? 4. Lonmin blow out as investor dump the share before results
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari is to swear in more ministers today. This could affect South African firms facing regulatory woes in Africa's biggest economy, including MTN and Standard Bank. Buhari was elected on an anti-corruption and anti-terrorism ticket in May. So far, he's only installed half his cabinet and some ministers-elect still don't know their portfolios. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent in Nigeria, Sophia Adengo.
Gauteng provincial government has lost over 91-million rand due to financial misconduct.These are the findings of the Public Service Commission. Its report, the State of the Public Service in Gauteng 2015, indicates that criminal action instituted against employees is very low. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Gauteng Provincial Government spokesperson, Thabo Masebe
South Africa's urbanisation trends suggest that by 2050 around 80% of the population will live in cities. Cities are the largest contributor to the national economy and their role is becoming increasingly important. The recently-released State of the City Finance report indicates that in the past five years, cities spent a combined 117-billion rand on capital-related projects. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sithole Mbanga, the CEO of SA Cities Network.
- The Rand once again reached record levels yesterday, but this did little to boost mining shares. However, elsewhere there was a glimmer of hope for domestic economic growth with the release of the latest manufacturing statistics yesterday. On balance, what is the expectation for the 3rd quarter GDP?
- With all these negative forces feeding into domestic growth, or rather, the lack thereof, what is your outlook for the final MPC meeting for the year? Will the SARB be the "Grinch that Stole Christmas".
- We seem to be weighed down by negative news flow, and the heat and drought is not making it any better. Please tell me that there is something positive out there to lift our spirits on this Wednesday
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says the use of Mandarin Chinese in public schools from next year will not equate to the colonization of South Africa. He has also dismissed as a myth comments that the introduction of any foreign language will be to the detriment of South African languages. Lesufi was speaking during a debate regarding the teaching of Mandarin in public schools. Tshepo Phagane reports…
The City of Johannesburg has introduced stage two water restrictions. The City said it had to implement the restrictions because of the ongoing drought. Last month, Rand Water issued the Tshwane, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni metropolitan municipalities notification that its supply pipeline servicing the areas was under severe strain.Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Environmental and Infrastructure Member of the mayoral committee , Matshediso Mfikoe.
South Africa's biggest fixed line network Telkom for the first time confirmed that it was in discussions on thea possible acquisition of mobile network Cell C. The confirmation comes in a cautionary announcement to Telkom shareholders. Saudi Arabia's Oger Telecom is Cell C's biggest shareholder, with a 75 per cent stake in the mobile network. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Jan Vermeulen from MyBroadband
NUMSA says it will not pursue its appeal for reinstatement within Cosatu. Following its weekend Central Executive Committee meeting in Johannesburg, the metalworkers' union has announced that there is no point in pursuing the appeal against its expulsion at the upcoming COSATU National Congress. It was expelled from the labour federation in November last year. It says it will not waste any more of worker's money fighting its axing in the courts. NUMSA was booted out of Cosatu primarily for its decision to recruit workers outside its traditional base. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports
Learners at Qhorha Primary School in Dutywa in the Eastern Cape have not been able to write their exams as they have no furniture to write on. Their desks were reposed by a local businessman for non-payment. The owner of Bright Ideas Project, Mlulami Sanqela, claims that the Eastern Cape provincial Department of Education has not paid him the 160-thousand Rand that they owe him for the school toilets he built in 2009. We spoke to the Spokesperson for the Provincial Education Department, Malibongwe Mtima, who referred us to the School Governing Body, as he says the contract was not signed by the department but by the SGB and the businessman. Deputy Chairperson of Qhorha Primary School Governing Body, Sithelo Ndinisa speaks to Sakina Kamwendo
Researchers are sending global warnings about a catastrophic change in climate ahead of the COP 21 Climate Change Conference which will soon be taking place in Paris. A latest report by the World Bank says more than 100 million people could be in poverty by 2030. To give a perspective on this, Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Climate Change Activist from Greenpeace, Melita Steele.
The charges against the University of Johannesburg students and workers who were arrested on Friday have been dropped in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court. The 141 people were taken into custody for public violence, gathering illegally and contravening a court interdict. They've been protesting against the outsourcing of workers at UJ. As the crowd made marched from court to UJ's Kingsway campus in Auckland Park, police tried to stop the protesters, firing stun grenades and teargas at them. Wisani Makhubele has more
Today Nerina Visser Strategist & Advisor at ETF looks at implications of the HeatWave on agricultural crops and ultimately food inflation, AGOA and the JSE's 125th birthday.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibe looks at the Asian Stocks that were split, with Chinese and Japanese equities rallying while smaller Asian markets retreated, the world’s economy is growing at a slower pace than the International Monetary Fund and other large forecasters are predicting and Goldman's BRIC Era Ends as Fund Folds After Years of Losses.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibe looks at the Asian Stocks that were split, with Chinese and Japanese equities rallying while smaller Asian markets retreated, the world’s economy is growing at a slower pace than the International Monetary Fund and other large forecasters are predicting and Goldman's BRIC Era Ends as Fund Folds After Years of Losses.
The newly-elected ANC Chairperson Sihle Zikalala has called on all party members to unite behind the ANC. He was addressing delegates after he was announced as the new chairperson in Kwa Zulu Natal, in a highly contested and divisive leadership election. He defeated the former provincial chairperson Senzo Mchunu.
President Jacob Zuma has called on African Union member states to avail resources required to sustain the African Standby Force. Zuma was speaking at ceremony to mark the end of the AMANI AFRICA 2 exercise at Lohatla military training centre in the Northern Cape. This simulated military exercise was aimed at evaluating the readiness of the African Standby Force to respond swiftly to ensuing conflicts on the continent. Amos Phago reports
Newly-elected ANC KwaZulu-Natal chairperson Sihle Zikalala has called for an end to what he terms the use of state resources to peddle factions within the party. He speaks to Sakina Kamwendo
- Most Asian Stocks Rise as Investors Await U.S. Employment Report
- The Lonmin challenge, is it time to give in?
- AGOA the struggle to impress the U.S or failure to be proactive
- The weeks top stories wrap (MTN and The Weak Rand)
Disciplinary measures should be taken against senior management of the Health Professions Council of South Africa found guilty of mismanagement and maladministration. Those are some of the recommendations by the Ministerial Task Team which investigated complaints of irregularities taking place at the council. Meanwhile, the South African Medical Association says it is encouraged by the statements made by the Minister of Health to the HPCSA. To get a response Sakina kamwendo spoke to the President of the Health Professions Council of South Africa, Dr. Kgosi Letlape and the Chairperson of SAMA, Dr Mzukisi Grootboom
- Judge Dennis Davis of the Tax review committee warns of a tax revolt given misspending of the tax payers money. Are his views justified?
- The government approved the black industrialist policy framework yesterday. As a country we're known for good policies but very weak on implementation. What's different about this one?
United State President Barrack Obama has given South Africa 60 days to remove barriers to US farm produce, otherwise he will suspend duty free trade concessions worth a quarter of a billion dollars. This follows a long-standing fight over barriers to U.S. Farm exports. South Africa missed an October the 15th deadline to agree to new rules for imports of U.S. poultry and meat products. Kate Fisher reports
- U.S. stocks retreated from a three-month high, after data on payrolls and remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen lifted bets that the central bank is closer to raising interest rates.
- Ten Asian Makers of Capacitors Get EU Price-Fixing Complaint
- Eskom assures power until April 2016
- Thursday Investment Theme: Child Education Plan
There will be no escapes from prison by ambitious prisoners who want to spend Christmas at home. The department of correctional services says it is beefing up security at all 243 correctional facilities ahead of the festive season. Operation Vala, translated operation close or lock up aims to put a complete stop to prison escapes in the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Manelisi Wolela...
There will be no escapes from prison by ambitious prisoners who want to spend Christmas at home. The department of correctional services says it is beefing up security at all 243 correctional facilities ahead of the festive season. Operation Vala, translated operation close or lock up aims to put a complete stop to prison escapes in the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Manelisi Wolela...
The South African Police Union says they are happy that no police official or community member was killed in the recent Krugersdorp shootout. Khulekani Mpanza was shot dead when a shootout occurred between him and four police officers. The police officers have since been arrested and face a charge of murder. The police union believes that the eight police officials responded to the shoot out as they should. Sakina kamwendo spoke to the President of the South African Police Union Mpho Kwinika.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South African companies operating outside the country's borders to observe the laws of the countries in which they operate. Ramaphosa says the heavy fine imposed on cellphone company MTN in Nigeria will deprive South Africa of valuable tax revenue. He was answering questions in the National Council of Provinces. Joseph Mosia reports...
- China's ruling party released its 13th 5-year plan, revising its growth projections to 6,5%. Was the market expecting this?
- South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry released the monthly Business Confidence Index. Positive news. What should we read into this?
- The funding of higher education came into the spotlight yesterday in parliament. Are there short term and long term solutions on the table?
Chaos erupted at the University of Johannesburg's Kingsway campus in Auckland Park yesterday, as police clashed with protesting workers and students. The situation turned ugly as the crowd tried to rescue some of their fellow protesters that police were holding. The protesters, including older women were manhandled. The crowd managed to rescue those who were captured, after violent clashes with the police and private security guards. Wisani Makhubele reports
African National Congress in the North West, has disbanded the embattled Ngaka Modiri Molema Regional Executive Committee with immediate effect. Among the reasons the provincial leadership has given for disbanding it, is the infighting within the regional executive which has made the committee dysfunctional. This is the second regional structure to be dissolved in less than three months. Patrick Dintwa reports
Farmers specialising in live stock and citrus in the Lowveld in Mpumalanga have started to reduce the number of farm workers because of the drought. Although water levels in many rivers have dropped, most irrigation dams are still between 70 and 85 percent full. But not all farmers have access to these water resources and many depend on rain to make their crops grow. Vusi Twala reports
It will be yet another anxious wait for paralympian Oscar Pistorius. His fate now lies in the hands of five judges in the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein. Pistorius was released on parole a month ago, after serving almost a year behind bars. He was found guilty of culpable homicide following the death of his model girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. But the State wants him convicted of murder, which carries a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. Maryna van Wyk reports
- Risk-taking has returned to global financial markets, as beaten-down energy shares and emerging markets help equities extend a 10-week rally
- European equities extended a rally that has helped them recoup about half the losses from a summer rout
- South Africa's rand slips to 1-month low ahead of U.S. jobs data
With South Africa facing water shortages as a result of the worst drought in at least two decades, the focus is now on alternative ways to produce the precious commodity. Saudi Arabia, a country also classified as water scarce, has turned to the sea as one solution to its water problems. The country is the world's largest producer of desalinated water. A water expert says in the long run, desalination can be an option for South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Paul Fairall from the Wetland Society of South Africa and Mayor of iLembe District in KwaZulu-Natal, Welcome Mdabe, to share their plans to deal with the water crisis. Ilembe is one of the country's worst-hit districts and has only enough water for three months.
World Wide Worx MD Arthur Goldstuck is reportedly saying that MTN "lacks respect for regulators. MTN is in talks with the Nigerian Communication Commission after having been fined 70 billion rand for failing to deregister illegal SIM cards. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Arthur Goldstuck
- MTN issued a statement yesterday afternoon that, the Nigerian regulators have renewed its license which is due to expire in February 2016. What does this mean and how did the market respond?
- The National Association of Automobile Manufactures of South Africa released the car sales data this week. What does this data tell us? What can we expect?
- With the depressed economic growth levels, re-emphasized by data such as these, should the National Development Plan targets not be revised?
The Department of environmental Affairs' biggest concern ahead of the climate change conference in Paris is to find ways keep the increase in global temperature below 2°C. Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa says the rising temperatures already have an impact on water, food security and eventually infrastructure and overall development of countries in the continent. Meanwhile farmers are already feeling the pinch as drought threatens the levels of produce farmers are can currently produce in order to continue feeding the nation. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa and President of AgriSA, Johannes Moller.....
Today, the state is going to court to appeal Oscar Pistorius' culpable homicide conviction. It is seeking a murder conviction. The state believes that Judge Thokozile Masipa erred in applying the law when making her judgment in September last year. Pistorius is currently under house arrest. To look at this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Criminal Law Expert, William Booth.
Protesting Wits University students say campus demonstrations might have stopped for now, but they will continue to fight for all their demands using other means. The students and the workers have now abandoned the protests after the parties agreed in principle on Sunday that Wits University will end the outsourcing of workers. A commission will be set up to oversee the process of ensuring that the workers are hired directly by the university. The university has also confirmed that the final exams will start next Monday. Wisani Makhubele reports
- The JSE suspended the MTN shares yesterday, before resuming trade after management issued further public communication. The crisis is far from over.
- Lonmin, the 3rd largest platinum producer in the world announced it will impair about $2billion of its assets. What will be the impact of this on the company?
- National Treasury releases the Carbon Tax bill. What will be the impact of this on the struggling SA economy?
A police officer has been shot and killed and another wounded in a shootout with suspected robbers at Lwamondo village near Thohoyandou in Limpopo. The officers were patrolling the area when they saw a suspicious vehicle. They followed the car and a shootout ensued. The wounded officer drove the police car to a nearby brickyard with the body of his colleague in a passenger seat to seek help. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase reports
South Africa is experiencing a crippling drought situation and already, some parts of the country have been declared disaster areas. The unfavourable climate conditions are expected to persist for the next three years and result in South Africa receiving below average rainfall. This is the country's worst water shortages in 23 years, and has caused a decline in farming output that will lower its GDP and cause food-price increases. Water and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane has called for individual self-discipline by water users. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Water and Sanitation Affairs Minister Nomvula Mokanyane and Omri Van Zyl- Executive Director at Agri SA.
The race to find a new Fifa president is on and our former Minister of Human Settlements Tokyo Sexwale is one of the presidential candidates. Sexwale comes with a lot of experience within Federation. He is currently serving as an adviser to Fifa. He previously served in the fair play committee and on several subcommittees, including the committee of the Fifa global task force against racism and discrimination.
Over 350 million rands has been set aside to address the drought problems in South Africa as over 11 thousand rural communities could face serious drought if there is no rainfall in the coming weeks and months. This was revealed by Water and Sanitation minister Nomvula Mokonyane at a media conference in Johannessburg about the extent of the water crisis in the country. Senior journalist Thabile Mbhele reports
Chartered Accountant and Development Economist at Mmoni Advisory Services Grathel Motau looks looks at MTN's woes in Nigeria continues, putting a spotlight on ethical leadership and Feedback on the National SMME colloquium bringing some tangible assistance to entrepreneurs.
It has emerged that DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard's fate was decided by way of voting through a secret ballot. But the DA would not reveal by how many votes. Some political parties in Parliament have also expressed mixed reaction to her dismissal. The DA Federal Executive terminated Kohler Barnard's membership on Friday. This comes after she was found guilty of misconduct for sharing a facebook post calling for the return of former Apartheid era state President PW Botha. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent compiled this report
Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union has condemned the killing of a suspect by police officers in Krugersdorp, west of Johannesburg. Khulekani Mpanza was running away from the police minutes before he was killed. Sakina Kamwendo POCRU spokeperson Richard Mamabolo
Sanral gives another discount as motorists resist paying for e-tolls. Gauteng freeway users are getting a once-off discount which will see them being eligible for a 60 percent reduction on their e-toll debt. As part of the new e-toll dispensation, Sanral says motorists can now settle their debt within six months or make further payment arrangements. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Sanral Spokesperson Vusi Mona.
IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi insists that his party still has a role to play in addressing persisting socio-economic challenges facing the country. This as the party is trying to rebuild itself ahead of the local government elections next year. Buthelezi says South Africa is burning under poor leadership. He was addressing hundreds of IFP supporters at the party's 40th anniversary celebration rally in Soweto, yesterday. The IFP was founded in 1975 and he has led it ever since. Zanele Buthelezi reports
The ANC Women's League will today hold its so-called "Hands off Zuma" march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This is the league's first major action since it elected its new leadership in August
On Saturday the South African Post Office management will have an urgent meeting with the Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Services. This is in an attempt to find workable solutions to the current financial and leadership problems and to see how the institution can be stabilised. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Services, Mmamoloko Kubayi.
Drought striken KwaZulu-Natal has some parts of the province declared as disaster zones, as more municipalities are introducing water rationing. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in KZN Nomsa Dube.
Several provinces across the country are expected to experience hot, dry conditions during the festive season. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) warned last month that the current El Niño weather phenomenon would add to the damage being done by global warming. To elaborate further Sakina Kamwenso spoke to the CSIR Principal Researcher, Dr Francois Engelbrecht,
Eskom has issued a notice of intention to disconnect power to residents in the Dikgatlong Municipality in Barkley West in the Northern Cape if they do not settle their debt. The municipality owes Eskom 8 million rand and has until December 14 to settle their bill. Neo Bodumela reports.
- Big sell off in commodity stocks yesterday leads JSE down
- U.S. Q3 GDP data at 1.5% largely in line with expectations, stronger dollar
- SA food prices on the increase as PPI ticks higher and as drought clouds outlook
The candidate of Tanzania's ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party, John Pombe Magufuli, has been declared the winner in the Presidentail elections. He garnered 8.8Million votes while his main opponent, Dr. Edward Lowassa, secured 6, Million votes. Magufuli with 58% of the total votes cas,t will now become Tanzania's 5th President succeeding Jakaya Kikwete who retires after ten years in office. However, the opposition has rejected the results, alleging massive vote rigging. Sarah Kimani reports
The National Prosecuting Authority in KwaZulu-Natal has welcomed the sentence handed down on two men who killed eight members of the same family by the Pietermaritzburg High Court. The two brothers, Thulani and Sibonelo Mncwabe, have been sentenced to seven life imprisonment terms each for the killing of seven Mncwabe family members. They were also sentenced to an additional twenty years for killing 72-year-old Mantinga Mncwabe at eMaBheleni on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast. The family members were hacked to death eight days ago. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
Provincial Secretary for the Communication Workers Union in Gauteng Jabulani Mncube tells Sakina Kamwendo that Post Office workers do NOT have endless patience, “they cannot be held accountable for what happens" during the strike.
South African Post Office has won a court interdict to restrain the Communication Workers Union from striking today. The Labour Court has granted a final order stopping the Union from picketing at the SA Post Office's work premises, retail outlets, mail centres, depots, regional offices and hubs. The Union's demands include that contract workers become permanent Post Office employees. To tell us more, we are joined on the line by the Spokesperson for the Post Office, Khulani Qoma
Despite growing risks facing the financial sector, South African banks remain viable and profitable. This is the finding of the Reserve Bank's Financial Stability Review. The review identifies any potential risks to the financial system. Tshepo Mongoai reports...
Wits University management has described as unreasonable the students' demand for the university to be closed until Monday. The demand was made when vice chancellor Adam Habib came out to engage the protesting workers and students in the scotching heat at the main campus in Braamfontein, Johannesburg yesterday afternoon. The students joined the workers in their protest against the outsourcing of workers. Some lectures were disrupted. Meanwhile, incoming SRC President Nompendulo Mkhatshwa aslo faced the wrath of the striking crowd as she tried to address them. Wisani Makhubele reports
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has denied that there's a crisis in its branches following yet another postponement of the long-awaited eThekwini regional elective conference. The conference which was scheduled to take place this past weekend, has now been set for November after the provincial elective conference. Provincial Secretary Sihle Zikalala addressed the media in Durban following the party's provincial executive meeting. Zanele Buthelezi reports.....
1.. Apple Inc. said it will have another record holiday, fuelled by enduring demand for the iPhone 2. Brazilian financial and political crisis set to remain for at least 3 more years before recovery 3. VW expects results that are short of estimate as the scandal continues to hurt revenue
Families living in five state farms in Stellenbosch are facing a bleak future, after being handed eviction notices from the provincial Department of Transport and Public Works. The families are marching today to the Cape Town High Court to air their grievances. Sakina kamwendo spoke to Vaaldraai Community Chairperson, Wendy Pekeur.
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande says details of where the 2-point-six billion rand will come from to cover for the zero-percent fee increase, will be revealed on Thursday. He was addressing the National Assembly during a debate on Higher Education Transformation. Lack of transformation and the call for free education also dominated the debate as our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande says details of where the 2-point-six billion rand will come from to cover for the zero-percent fee increase, will be revealed on Thursday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior research fellow at think-tank Trade Collective and political economist Lebohang Pheko.
Africa is hoping to tap into Indian expertise in the information Communication Technology and motoring sectors to bolster its own markets. Over 50 African heads of state are expected to attend the 3rd India-Africa summit in New Dehli on Thursday. Presidential correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more ...
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights of Communities (CRL Rights Commission) says they are investigating the commercialisation of religion by Pastors. The Commission has issued a summons to several pastors to appear before it. This follows a complaint by the South African Council of Churches (SACC) against Pastor Lesego Daniels of Raboni Ministries and Pastor Penuel Mnguni who recently made members of their congregations eat grass and snakes. Sakina kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the CRL Rights Commission, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva.
- South Africa unemployment worsens
- JSE ends lower led by slump in commodity stocks
- US data softer ahead of today's Fed meeting
The EFF has given all JSE listed companies a month to respond to it's demands or face a total shut down. On Tuesday the party marched to chamber of mines, reserve bank and the JSE with a set of demands centred around better pay for mine workers, regulation of the banking sector and economic transformation. While march was generally peaceful chaos erupted at the JSE after thousands of EFF members refused to comply with security measure set up by the a private security company and the police. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
500 NUM members have spent 5 nights underground at the ASA Dilokong mine near Burgersfort in Limpopo, as part of a protest action. According to the National Union of Mineworkers, its members downed tools and have been underground since last Thursday. They now want the Department of Mineral Resources to intervene. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Phillip Mankga, the NUM North East Deputy Secretary…
EFF leader Julius Malema has called on South Africans to show the same courage displayed by students during the fees must fall campaign if they want a better life. Malema was speaking at a mini rally in Thembalihle informal settlement, west of Johannesburg last night. He was there to drum up support for his party's economic freedom much which kicks off at Mary Fitzgerald square in Newtown this morning. Senior political reporter Amos Phago reports
- Asian stocks fell, with the regional benchmark index retreating from its highest in two months,
- European investment banks may reduce the number of analysts they employ and some independent research providers may quit the market
- Is it time to invest in MTN (Twitter)
Foreign nationals in Grahamstown it the Eastern Cape say they are being ignored by the Makana Municipality. More than 450 foreign nationals are still being housed in a place of safety after their shops were looted last week. The looting was allegedly sparked by a belief among the community that the foreign nationals are behind a spate of brutal murders in Joza township. The foreign nationals deny any involvement in the brutal murders. They says they don't know why they are always targeted. AMlive spoke to wife of the man (allegedly tortured for the murders) , Jacquline Koukamp
As some of you tuck in to your egg, bacon and sausage breakfast this morning, just keep in mind this may soon be a thing of the past. Bacon, sausage and other processed meats are now ranked alongside cigarettes and asbestos as known carcinogens. In a new report the World Health Organization says processed meats cause cancer, and red meat likely causes cancer. To discuss this further, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Head of health at Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), Prof Michael Herbset…
Poll results trickling in from Tanzania's general election show the ruling party taking a narrow lead. 10 of the 264 constituencies have announced results. Voting was forced into a second day following delays in delivering voting material and incidences of violence in several areas. Meanwhile the opposition says police have arrested scores of volunteers at three of its vote tally centres. Shingai Nyoka reports....
- Mtn fined $5bn in Nigeria, sends stock down 15%
- Oil falls to lowest since early September as supply glut continues amid weak demand
- Eyes on SA employment numbers today. The outlook remains cloudy...
Student Representative Council at the North West University says they will continue with their protests at the three campuses until the university's council clarifies if it will heed to president Zuma's call for a no fee increase or not. Violence has plagued the University's Vaal-Triangle and Mahikeng Campuses, while others were admitted in hospital following their clash with the police. Bafedile Moerane reports
Thirteen students at the University of Limpopo outside Polokwane have been arrested for malicious damage to property and theft. This after protesting students vandalised and looted cafeterias at the Turfloop campus last night. This came a few hours after they had handed over a memorandum to university management. The students' protest is part of the nationwide -fees must fall campaign. Witness Tiva reports
- Asian stocks rose with the Australian dollar after China cut interest rates and lenders' reserve requirements on Friday
- VW CEO returns with vengeance to revive the automakers reputation
- China leaders meet to discuss financial reforms, economic growth
Wits University will remain closed today (Monday) after students informed university management this weekend of their decision to continue with the #FeesMustFall protests. The decision was taken at a mass meeting held over the weekend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Wits University vice chancellor Adam Habib
This year's final matric exams officially begin today, with over 560-thousand Grade 12 learners writing English Paper One at nine O'clock this morning. Over 800-hundred thousand, part-time and full-time candidates, have registered for this year's matric exams. Several thousand learners began with their practical exams last week. Last year's matric exams were marred by a mass cheating scandal in various provinces. Government says measures have been put in place to ensure that this does not happen again. Wisani Makhubele reports ...
The African National Congress Women's League says it is embarking on a "hands off our president" march to the union building on Friday. The women's league says it urges all members of various communities to join in in sending this message. For more we are joined on the line by ANC Women's League's Secretary General Meokgo Matuba
Wits University remains closed on Monday after students informed university management this weekend of their decision to continue with the FeesMustFall protests. The decision was taken at a mass meeting held over the weekend. We are now joinde on the line by the outgoing Wits' SRC President Shaeera Kalla...
Tourists travelling to South Africa can now enjoy reviewed and relaxed visa laws. This comes after government's decision to revisit the controversial visa laws that have had many travellers worried and inconvenienced. The Tourism Business Council of SA says this is a step in the right direction but would review the implications before it could say whether or not it was satisfied with the changes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mmatsatsi Ramawela,CEO of Tourism Business Council of South Africa...
- China meets to unveil its 5 year plan after adding monetary stimulus on Friday
- Rand remains on back foot despite reasonably well supported EM risk appetite late last week
- Eyes on U.S. FED this week with no hike expected
It's been a year since the passing of Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa, however the murder mystery remains unsolved. Meyiwa was shot and killed during a robbery in Vosloorus in October last year. He was with his girlfriend Kelly Khumalo and some friends at the time of the tragic incident. Despite police saying there were a number of several leads - there have been no arrests since then. Pearl Magubane reports
eligious leaders from across South Africa have declared the student protests against tuition fee increases that are engulfing the country, a national crisis.They condemned what they call unnecessary use of violence and police brutality against the students. Meanwhile, academics are joining the students in their fight for the democratisation of the country's universities. Students at higher education institutions are insisting that a frank national debate be opened on both the funding and orientation of higher education.
- Asian stocks and currencies jumped as the prospect of more stimulus from the European Central Bank combined with better-than-estimated technology earnings in the U.S. and rising Chinese home prices.
- Amazon results better than expected and make the owner 3rd richest American
- The weeks wrap
University of Cape Town's Vice-Chancellor, Max Price, says he is committed to working with police and prosecutors to have charges against protesting students at the university dropped. Price yesterday* addressed thousands of UCT students who gathered on the steps of the Jameson Hall on the university's upper campus
Nyakallo Makgoba, the son of Anglican Archbishop Thabo Makgoba, says being arrested was the last thing on his mind. He was one of the students who were arrested on Wednesday while they were taking part in the #FeesMustFall protest outside parliament. Since last week, students have been protesting at universities across the country against proposed tuition fee hikes. Nyakallo has since been released and he spoke to Sakina Kamwendo.
President Jacob Zuma says the demands by students for a zero increase in tuition fees at tertiary institutions are justified. Zuma was speaking following his meeting with Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi. Mozambique is South Africa's top trading partner on the continent - and new gas development plans are expected to further bolster economic trade. Presidential correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
Publishing Editor of Minisng Weekly and Engineering News Martin Creamer Crippling new tax laws recommended for SA’s already maimed mining industry, disillusioned investors are demanding radical changes to the way mining CEOs are incentivised and Transnet is setting out to penalise companies that have failed to meet their local-content obligations.
Learners at Westbury Secondary School feel the death of Zukisa Kela robbed them of not only a teacher, but a father and brother as well. An emotional memorial service was held on Thursday afternoon to honour the 25-year-old teacher. Kela and his friend, Sizwe Keke were drowned in the Rhodes Park dam by a gang of twelve men on Saturday night. The men had been walking through the park after a church service with their partners. Noma Bolani reports
- Yesterday you promised us good news stories, so I hope you are ready to deliver some Friday cheer! What have you got for us today to put us in the right frame of mind for the weekend ahead?
- It was a busy day yesterday, especially from a company news flow point of view. Was there anything in particular that put a smile on your dial?
- What else, other than the expectation of a win for the Springboks tomorrow, should make us happy on this Friday?
Members of the KwaZulu-Natal government have visited the Mncwabe family to offer condolences and support following the brutal killing of eight family members. The eight, among them young children and pensioners, were hacked to death at eMaBheleni, Mthwalume on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast early on Wednesday morning. Its believed that the family had been accused of practising witchcraft. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports
The lawyer who is representing the University students who were arrested during a protest yesterday, Popo Mfubu says the charges of treason against the students who were arrested is an attempt to intimidate, and send a message to the students protesting with the aim to weaken the movement
Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene delivered his medium term budget policy statement as student protests broke out outside the National Assembly building in parliament. Nene's speech was delayed by at least half an hour. This was after EFF's members of parliament requested a postponement of the tabling of the mini budget in a bid to address the students concerns about university fee increases. Tshepo Mongoai reports
Parliament became a battleground as the "Fees Must Fall" campaign continued on the parliamentary precinct and in the National Assembly during Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene's Mini Budget speech. Out parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
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Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande and various stakeholders have agreed to look into a fee increase not higher than the inflation rate of 6% for the 2016 academic year. Nzimande, various representatives of university vice chancellors and student representatives, met in Cape Town yesterday to find solutions to the increase in tertiary education fees. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
Students' organisation, COSAS, will embark on a national protest in support of the 'Fees Must Fall Campaign' in tertiary institutions. The student union says hundreds of young people will march to the Department of Higher Education in Pretoria to demand free education. For more we are now joined on the line by COSAS Secretary-general, Khulekani Skosana
- Today is mini-budget day, and as we focus on parliament and Min. Nene this afternoon, the latest domestic economic indicators point to a possible technical recession. What is your view - are we in a recession?
- A few months ago it was announced that agreement had been reached between South Africa and the US around the poultry market, and how it affects AGOA, the African Growth and Opportunity Act. Yesterday this trade deal was back in the news. What is the latest?
- As an alternative to a focus on trade and export in the economy, we can focus more attention on domestic capacity building. This is the primary aim of the Industrial Development Corporation, IDC, who celebrated its 75th anniversary with a conference yesterday. What were some of the key insights?
Moscow is hosting a meeting of industry ministers of BRICS countries for the first time. The issued discussed include ways to strengthen co-operation between members as well as assistance to deal with common challenges. SABC's Julia Lyubova has more from the Russian capital.
Students from Wits University have rejected the agreement that tuition fee increases at tertiary institutions be capped at 6 percent. Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande made the announcement after a meeting with representatives of various universities in Cape Town yesterday. Wits students begun protesting last Wednesday over the proposed tuition increases of 10,5 percent at the institution. All lectures at the university have been suspended until next Monday. Sashin Naidoo has the details
Academic activities remain suspended at a number of universities due to rolling protests over proposed tuition fees increases. The affected institutions include the Universities of Cape Town, Wits, Rhodes, Stellenbosch and Fort Hare. Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande held a meeting with the representatives of various universities in Cape Town yesterday (tuesday 20 October) to discuss the issue of fees. At the same time, COSAS says hundreds of young people will march to the Department of Higher Education in Pretoria today to demand free education. Wisani Makhubele has more
Higher Education Minster Blade Nzimande will meet with representatives of various universities in Cape Town today to discuss tuition fee increases. The minister addressed the media in Pretoria yesterday about protests at a number of institutions over the proposed fee increases. Nzimande has appealed to the students to give efforts aimed at resolving their grievances a chance. He also says government is working on sourcing additional student funding. As Wisani Makhubele reports
Minister of International Relations, Maite Nkoana- Mashabane says South Africa is working closely with the UK on a range of issues from security threats to scientific breakthroughs. Nkoana-Mashabane has been meeting with the UK's Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond in London for the bilateral forum between the two countries. UK correspondent Dan Whitehead reports
The ANC says South Africa will raise the plight of the Palestinians in all international forums as part of a letter of intent signed with HAMAS in Johannesburg yesterday. The leadership of Islamic Resistance Movement HAMAS led by Khaled Meshaal met with the ANC on the invitation of the ruling party. The ANC says it will co-operate with the party to struggle against the oppression and occupation of the Palestineans by what it calls Apartheid Israel. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe reports..
Classes at Wits University have been suspended once again after violent protests erupted over a proposed increase in tuition fees. Angry students overturned a car that allegedly tried to run over some of the protesters and beat up the driver. They then blockaded Empire Road in Parktown after the university's Executive Council failed to meet with them. Students have been protesting at the campus since last week over the proposed tuition increase for next year of 10.5%. Sashin Naidoo reports....
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The clock is ticking for a Western Cape farm manager after the Constitutional Court ordered that she take all necessary steps to help the Snyders family return to their home on the Voorbaat farm. The family complained that they were evicted without notice two weeks ago and have been forced to live in a drafty warehouse. The highest court in the land ordered that they be allowed to return, pending the outcome of their appeal against the eviction. Senior Constituitonal Court Reporter, Candice Nolan reports
The City of Cape Town is expected to serve notices on various top police officials today to appear in court for breaching the Regulation of Gatherings Act. Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, says a crime imbizo held by Police Minister Nathi Nhleko in Khayelitsha over the weekend was illegal. The meeting was called to discuss the implementation of recommendations of the Khayelitsha Commission of Inquiry which probed allegations of police inefficiency in the area. Lyndon Khan reports
President Jacob Zuma has assured the media that whatever laws are passed that may affect the sector will not contravene the rights to freedom of expression and speech enshrined in the constitution. Zuma yesterday hosted Editors and Senior Journalists from a cross section of the media in an event to commemorate Press Freedom Day today. However the President's assurances have not convinced all as Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports
A family from rural KwaMaphumulo north of Durban has been left traumatised after they spent a day driving around with the body of an unknown person in a coffin due to a case of mistaken identity. The government mortuary refused to take the body back once the mistake was discovered. Nhlanhla Nxele reports
Publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly Martin Creamer give us this week’s update on our weekly feature, The Coal-Face. Business Leadership South Africa this week called for the jailing of pension fund trustees who have failed to pay ex-mineworkers their pensions, Wescoal this week put up its hand up as the flag-bearer of black junior coal mining in South Africa and Sibanye this week put its new mechanised mining machine through its paces at the Jo’burg Indaba
- Asian Markets in the positive for a fourth Friday in the row...
- Nestle cuts 2015 forecast as 9 month sales miss estimates...
- What's happened this week? We started off with AB InBev SAB Miller Deal | VW New CEO resign | Bridge collapse and Murry and Roberts shares took a deep...
A Western Cape farm manager has contradicted allegations that a family has been rendered homeless by their eviction. This is contained in a response to a Constitutional Court petition for the Snyders family to be returned to the workers cottage on the farm. The manager says their return is impractical, as there is already someone else living there. Senior Constitutional Court reporter, Candice Nolan reports
Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande says his department is to consider a proposal to regulate tertiary education fees. He was speaking on the sidelines of the Higher Education Transformation Summit in Durban. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to President of the South African Students Congress Ntuthuko Makhombothi on students protest outside summit
Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande says his department is to consider a proposal to regulate tertiary education fees. He was speaking on the sidelines of the Higher Education Transformation Summit in Durban. The recent ANC National General Council tasked the department with developing a regulatory framework to curb massive increases of fees at tertiary institutions. Meanwhile, funding at higher education institutions dominated discussions on the first day of the Summit, yesterday. Zanele Buthelezi reports.... . .
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) says it's dealing with bureaucratic hurdles that are hampering plans for the construction of the world's largest hydro-power dam. The Grand Inga Dam is seen as key to resolving the continent's power shortages as it has the potential to provide electricity for most of Africa. This multi-billion project that has long been on the cards. The fragile security situation in the Congo's east and expanding trade will be on the agenda when the two countries' heads of state meet on Friday. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng
- Lets talk about the markets bid for quality stocks
- A summary of U.S. banks corporate earnings
- US Inflation data
More police have been deployed at Vrygrond near Cape Town due to the on going taxi violence. A local community centre was also set alight. Chris Mabuya reports
The four children of a taxi driver who died in a bridge collapse in the Sandton area, north of Johannesburg, now face an uncertain future. Twenty-seven year-old Siyabonga Myeni, is one of the two people who died when a pedestrian bridge under construction on the Grayston Drive off-ramp collapsed on Wednesday afternoon. Twenty other people were injured, three of them critically. Both sides of the M1 highway in the area were re-opened to traffic yesterday afternoon after a 24-hour closure. Wisani Makhubele reports
We now get an update on what has been happening at Wits University .... yesterday the university's main campus in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, came to a standstill as students protested against what they maintain are exorbitant tuition and residence fee increases for 2016. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Wits University Spokesperson, Shirona Patel
- Asian stocks climbed with U.S. index futures and emerging-market currencies advanced as weak economic data from around the world sent the odds of the Federal Reserve raising interest rates this year to the lowest since March
- Wal-Mart Heirs See $11 Billion Vanish in a Day on Share Fall
- Volkswagen AG is under investigation by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission in connection with advertising claims for its diesel cars as new CEO also Resigns
- Thursday Investment Theme: Forex Trading
At least two people are confirmed to have died after a temporary scaffolding structure collapsed in Sandton yesterday. The structure was used as a bridge for cyclists and pedestrians over the busy M1 highway. The collapse of the bridge comes as the City of Johannesburg is promoting the Ecomobility World Festival which encouraged motorists to park their cars, cycle, walk and use public transport to get around Sandton.
ANC in the Northern Cape says they will have a Provincial Executive Committee meeting tomorrow, to map out the way forward regarding the future of the party's chairperson John Block. Block, together with the director of Trifecta, Christo Scholtz, were found guilty of fraud, corruption and money laundering by the Kimberley High Court. The ANC's Deputy Secretary Alvin Botes was acquitted of all charges. Sellwane Khakhau reports
Judgment has been reserved in the case brought by the DA to have the appointment of Hlaudi Motsoeneng as the permanent COO of the SABC declared irrational. Judge Dennis Davis says he will take some time to rule on the matter. The DA says Communications Minister Faith Muthambi acted illegally in appointing Motsoeneng, despite the findings of the Public Protector that he had lied about his qualifications. Joseph Mosia reports
National Police Commissioner, General Riah Phiyega, has been suspended with immediate effect. Her suspension follows recommendations by a Board of Inquiry into allegations of misconduct, her fitness to hold office and her capacity to execute official duties efficiently. Phiyega has been under fire for the police shooting of 34 miners at Marikana in 2012. Let's take a look back to the 15 June 2012 press conference that took place a day after Phiyega was appointed as National Police Commissioner
The National Police Commissioner, General Riah Phiyega, has been suspended with immediate effect. Her suspension follows recommendations by a Board of Inquiry into allegations of misconduct, her fitness to hold office and her capacity to execute official duties efficiently. Phiyega has been under fire for the police shooting of 34 miners at Marikana in 2012. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Marikana Defence Advocate, Andries Nkome
- Let's talk about the markets search for quality stocks
- Mediclinic's bid to become the biggest hospital group in the UAE
- UK inflation data
Motorist and commuters are urged to avoid the M1 this morning as the highway is closed. This comes after the collapse of a bridge on the M1/Grayston interchange. At least two people are confirmed dead and 20 injured. Sakina speaks to Murry & Roberts CEO Henry Laas
Two weeks after he was kicked out of his home, a Western Cape farm labourer, will know this morning if he and his family can go back to the farm on which he had lived for 23 years. The Constitutional Court will deliver judgement in an interim relief application. Karel Snyders approached the highest court in the land on an urgent basis after he and his family were evicted on the first of this month. The farm manager wanted them off the land after Snyders stopped working there. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan reports
Cape Town High Court Judge Dennis Davis has questioned how Communications Minister Faith Muthambi could appoint Hlaudi Motsoeneng as permanent SABC COO even though he admitted to being dishonest. Davis is hearing the case brought by the DA to declare Muthambi's appointment of Motsoeneng irrational. Joseph Mosia reports...
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To get a reaction from the Commission for Gender Equality, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Javu Baloyi, Spokesperson for the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE).
A new controversial painting by Artist, Ayanda Mabulu has set tongues wagging. In it, Mabulu depicts President Jacob Zuma and a young woman in a fallacious position. Its further shows the woman in another sexual position at the same time with a man dressed in old colonial garb. For the artist, the work defines our current political situation. It's a metaphor for his opinion that the country is being milked dry by the ANC. To analyse this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Art Critic and Masters Student at Wits University, Athi Joja.
SABMiller - the global beer giant founded in South Africa - has accepted "in principle" a new takeover bid from rival brewer Anheuser-Busch InBev. SABMiller had rejected previous offers, claiming that they "very substantially" undervalued the company. Our UK correspondent Dan Whitehead reports
The world's two largest brewing groups are merging. British brewer SABMiller is to be taken over by the Belgian-Brazilian group Anheuser-Busch InBev, making it the one of the world's biggest takeovers. This move has been received with mixed reactions from many South Africans. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Fawu's General Secretary Katishi Masemola...
The International Criminal Court (ICC) says South Africa will still be held accountable for not handing over Sudanese president Omar Al-Bashir - even if it decides to remove its signature from the court. It comes after Obed Bapela, deputy minister in the South African Presidency, says the African National Congress is making preparations to withdraw from the Rome Statute. Jack Parrock reports.
The KwaZulu-Natal Standing Committee on Public Accounts has criticised the provincial Department of Education for not doing enough to recover salaries that have been paid to educators who faked their qualifications. Provincial Education Head of Department - Dr Nkosinathi Sishi - says more educators are being arrested in various schools for fraudulent qualifications on a monthly basis. Sishi and a team of senior officials from his department appeared before SCOPA over its 2014/2015 audit report. Sishi says the teacher shortage problem has led to the attraction of unqualified educators - many of whom are foreign nationals. Zanele Buthelezi reports
- Concerns surrounding the number of listings coming to JSE in October
- JP Morgan results which came out yesterday
A deceased Northern Cape politician has come in for scathing attack in a high-profile fraud trial in the Kimberley High Court. Yolanda Botha, who died in December last year, was accused in the fraud and corruption trial involving Northern Cape ANC Chairperson John Block. Delivering her judgement, Judge Mathebe Phatshoane said Botha was drifting towards becoming a law unto herself. Our reporters Sellwane Khakhau and Neo Bodumela compiled the following report
Department of Land Affairs and Rural Development is to review the controversial Ingonyama Trust Act in KwaZulu-Natal with the aim of ensuring that people on tribal land fully benefit from it. The Act established the Ingonyama Trust which administers about 2.8 million hectares of land in the province under traditional authority. Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini is the chair of the Trust. The issue was discussed at the ANC's National General Council held over the weekend. Meanwhile, the Ingonyama Trust has welcomed plans to review the Act, saying that's in line with the constitution. Zanele Buthelezi reports
A recent study on role of women in peace making has shown that women have a more meaningful role in global conflict management. The report, presented by the UN-WOMEN in new york, indicates that peace is sustained where women participated in peace talks missions. It also reveals that countries are more resilient to conflicts and extremism when gender equality is prioritized. Sherwin Bryce-Pease report.
Northern Cape Judge Mmathebe Phatsoane is expected to start delivering her judgement today in the case involving Northern Cape ANC chairperson John Block, deputy secretary Alvin Botes and Trifecta director Christo Scholtz. The judgement was originally set to be delivered in Junebut was postponed because Judge Phatsoane was not ready. Block, Botes and Scholtz are accused of fraud, corruption and money laundering relating to multi-million rand government lease tenders. They have all pleaded not guilty to the charges. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi followed the proceedings and filed this report…
The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has raised its concerns over illegal fishing in the country. It says the practice is out of control and requires coordinated global effort with law enforcements agencies to restrain it. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the department's Chief Director of compliance Ceba Mthoba....
- China's imports extended the longest losing streak in six years, with Asian markets in negative territory
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- Markets response to the ANC NGC / significant or irrelevant
A PhD student from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, Jinal Bhiman, has published a study that has important implications for the development of an AIDS vaccine. Bhiman's study describes how the changing viral swarm in an HIV infected person can promote the generation of antibodies able to neutralize a wide range of HIV strains. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Penny Moor from Wits University...
Wage talks in the coal sector continue as employer tables a new offer. Workers affliated to the National Union of Mineworkers downed tools two weeks ago demanding better salaries. The union met till late yesterday discussing whether to accept or reject the revised offer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Highveld Deputy Chairperson, Nelson Ratshoshi...
- Let's talk about AB Inbev's renewed offer for SABMiller
- Chinese trade balance numbers that came out this morning
- Let's talk about concerns surrounding the number of listings coming to the JSE in October
Parents, who lie about their residence in order to get their children into a particular school, could face a jail term. This is according to proposed bill by the basic education department. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chief Director of Communications at the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga
The South African Municipal Workers Union says it will not go ahead with the planned strike action this morning. This follows the union's decision last week to serve City Power with a notice to strike‚ raising fears that the residents of Johannesburg will then experience a complete blackout. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Samwu's Deputy General Secretary Paul Tlhabang....
Johannesburg metro police has warned motorists to avoid Witkopen road this morning as Kya Sands informal settlement residents embark on a protest . Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Jacques Steenkamp.
- Chinese shares rallied amid speculation the government will increase stimulus, helping a gauge of Asian equities extend its biggest weekly gain in almost four years
- Bad news on the global economy has been good for precious metals
- ABInBev Said to Discuss Raising SABMiller Bid to About 43 Pounds
A heavy police presence is to monitor Etwatwa and Daveyton in the aim of ensuring smooth operations as learners return to school for the fourth term. The area has been marred with gang related violence recently allegedly terrorizing community members. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Human Settlement Ekhuruleni Member of the Mayoral Committee; Councillor Aubrey Nxumalo...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
The ANC says the "ICC has lost its direction and is no longer pursuing that principle of an instrument that is fair for everybody" and has thus urged the South African government to begin the process of withdrawing from the international body. This is according to the party's international relations subcommittee Chairperson Obed Bapela who addressed reporters at the NGC meeting in Midrand (on Sunday). In June 13 2015, the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC) brought an urgent application before the High Court seeking that Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir be arrested while in South Africa for the African Union Summit. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to International Criminal Justice Lawyer at SALC, Angela Mudukuti
AbaThembu royal family and traditional leaders in the Eastern Cape have endorsed Prince Azenathi Zanelizwe as the regent king of the Abathembu nation. This comes after the Supreme Court of Appeal turned down King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's appeal against a 15-year sentence which was reduced to 12 years for crimes committed between 1995 and 1996. The crimes include arson, culpable homicide, kidnapping and defeating the ends of justice. King Dalindyebo says his son is ready to take the royal spear
The ANC has vowed to embark on a renewal drive to rid itself of factionalism and corruption. In his address at the end of the three day National General Council which ended in Midrand, President Jacob Zuma said members who are leading factions and buying of members for votes during elective conferences will face disciplinary actions. Zuma also says they want to conduct lifestyle audits of all civil servants to root out corruption. Ntebo has more.
Scores of emerging farmers in Bedford, in the Eastern Cape, face a bleak future as a result of grazing land and water shortages in the area. The Bedford Stock owner's Association say the number of livestock has exceeded the size of the commonage allocated to them by the municipality twenty years ago. The Association has more than 60 emerging farmers. Some of the livestock farmers have cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. Makhaya Komisa reports
SARS has uncovered a syndicate which was attempting to defraud the tax system R266 million. Suspecting fraudulent activities, SARS official requested this syndicate to furnish supporting documents. The documents submitted proved that the claim was indeed fraudulent. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SARS' Spokesperson Luther Lebelo.
The Coal-Face with, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly Martin Creamer looks at why Analysts are warning that Kumba Iron Ore would be the first big iron-ore miner to crash out of the global iron-ore market, concern growing that the low coal price will scuttle the rigid take-or-pay arrangements that Transnet has with coal exporters and the City of Johannesburg plans to use its own bulk water system to generate its own electricity.
There has been confusion surrounding whether the media will be allowed acces to witness President Jacob Zuma release the political report, at the ANC NGC later this morning at Gallager Estate in Midrand. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo this morning Political analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni says the ANC will avoid any embarrassment that might arise.
Nadir Thokan, Analyst at 27Four Investment Managers looks at the US Federal reserve's decision not to hike interests rate and equity market under pressure
Market Analyst Cive Ranathibela looks at Asian markets rose, extending the recent global equity rally, Apple Inc. is rolling out its mobile-payments service for select Starbucks Corp. stores by the end of the year and South Africa August factory output down 0.2 % year on year
The ANC says it's all systems go for its national general council, which officially kicks off on Friday. The NGC will be attended by over four thousand delegates. These include branch delegates, representatives of leagues, alliance partners and international guests. The party has warned that no new policies will be discussed. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
The President of the African National Congress Jacob Zuma says the ruling party will use the National General Council to scrutinise concerns raised by the party's slow pace of service delivery and other pressing socio-economic challenges. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report...
The family of honeymoon murder victim Anni Dewani will attend a North London Coroner's Court today to hear whether her husband, Shrien Dewani, is prepared to answer questions about her death. The appointment comes exactly a month after the family first attended the court, in the hope that the coroner would open an inquest into Anni's death. She was living in London before her marriage. Anni was killed in Cape Town while on her honeymoon with her husband in November 2010. Catherine Drew reports...
A judgment by the Supreme Court of Appeal ordering that disciplinary steps be taken against SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng could have a bearing on the upcoming Constitutional Court hearing into the powers of the Public Protector. Earlier this week, the Constitutional Court allowed Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, to participate in the case lodged by the Economic Freedom Fighters. The EFF wants President Jacob Zuma to pay back the money for non-security upgrades at his Nkandla home as recommended by the Public Protector. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details
Thabo is a community Health Care worker in Klerdorp, North West. He is concerned about the rights of patients who refuse treatment for TB, exposing those who they live with and the community to the virus.
Market Analyst and Home made Economist Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks which rose for a seventh day, following U.S. shares higher, with Chinese markets set to open after a week-long holiday that saw a global equity rally, China Returns strong following a week long Holiday and Thursday's Investment Theme is Twitter – Difference between Value and Growth stocks!!
South Africa is at risk of completely losing access to the Africa Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA), if it goes ahead with the proposed bill to overhaul the private security industry. This is according to U.S. embassy in South Africa. The bill has been passed by Parliament and awaits the President's signature. Dimakatso Leshoro reports…
Johannesburg's City Power says any claims that it's unwilling to address allegations of improper conductare is patently false. The power utility was responding to claims by municipal workers union SAMWU that it had failed to address corruption allegations against a senior official. SAMWU has warned it will embark on a strike from next Monday, which it claims will cause a total blackout of Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to City Power board chairperson, Reverend Frank Chikane.
Analyst At 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at the European Central Bank meeting happening today, SABMiller rejects AB InBev's takeover offer and Mining production numbers coming out today.
Mentally ill individuals are still exposed to a large degree of discrimination and marginalization due to the stigma that still surrounds mental health. This according to Social workers at the Lentegeur Psychiatric Hospital in the Western Cape who are working tirelessly to change that. Surely dealing with people with mental illness must be a challenging process and how many of us really understand? Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Social Work Manager at Lentegeur Psychiatric Hospital Estelle Silence.
A group of Businessmen around the North West Province, calling themselves, the North West Business Forum, have made available a whooping two million rands reward, for any information that may lead to the possible arrest of the killers of one of their own, Wandile Bozwana. Property mogul Bozwana was gunned down last Friday on the N1 in Pretoria by unknown assailants. His killing comes at a time when he was wrestling the North West government at the Constitutional Court, over unpaid tender invoices amounting to thirty-million-rands. Bobby Serame and Lucas Mothibedi compiled this report...
The minister of Public Enterprises Lynne Brown has acknowledged that state owned enterprises are not driving the economy as they should. She says government is currently working on a model which will decide where different SOEs should be placed. She was addressing delegates attending the Black Management Forum's annual conference in Midrand. Most SOEs have been criticised for being badly run. Morafe Tabane filed this report
The Passenger Rail Agency of SA Prasa, has launched a single control centre, which Prasa says is expected to improve train punctuality and safety. The Gauteng Nerve Centre located in Kempton Park is described by the Transport Minister Dipuo Peters as the first of its kind on the continent. To tell us more we are joined on the line by the Group Chief Strategy Officer at Prasa, Sipho Sithole.
Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe is calling for business leaders to have courage in ensuring that the wealth of the country is transferred to more black South Africans. Radebe was quoted while addressing the Black Management Forum's annual conference in Midrand on Tuesday. The Minister expressed concern that the structure of our economy is still largely reflecting the apartheid past
City of Cape Town has announced plans to honour Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and his wife Leah, ahead of his 84th birthday today. Mayor Patricia de Lille, says activities include a reconciliation walk, an interfaith service and a council speech. De Lille says they'll also officially hand over a 200-year-old building next week donated to preserve the work of the Tutu Legacy Foundation. Thandiswa Mawu reports
Investment Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at PepsiCo. shares rise 2.9% after earnings beat forecasts, Sibanye bids R4bn for Aquarius Pt and New Europe Property Investment raises R2bn in fresh capital
Since the launch of the BRICS bank we've been speaking to various experts about what exactly the bank has been set up for and not really understanding its main objectives. Well the bank's vice-president is in the country and we use this opportunity now to get him to explain what the main objectives of the bank are and also what the benefits are for South Africa?
Desparate father who is an ex-convict looking for his son, but not being allowed to see him. He is frustrated and wants to know which way to go in his efforts to unite with his son. Sakina speaks to Advocate Petunia Seabi-Mathope the Chief Family Advocate at the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets in the positive for the second day running at the back of a weaker dollar; the World Bank revises South Africa's GDP for 2015 to 1.5 percent and Australian central bank leaves rates unchanged in line with other developed markets
SABC News is in possession of documents showing that the three women who accused former tennis champion Bob Hewitt of rape and sexual assault may have colluded prior to his trial. In March this year, the Australian-born Hewitt was found guilty of two counts of rape and one of sexual assault. The 75-year-old was convicted of raping Theresa Tolken and Suellen Sheehan in the 1980s and of sexually assaulting a third woman in the 1990s. The crimes were committed when he was their tennis coach. Hewitt was sentenced in the High Court in Pretoria to an effective six years in jail. He is currently under house arrest on his farm in the Eastern Cape while awaiting his appeal. Jamaine Krige reports.
The South African Weather Service has issued a warning of a heat wave which is expected to go on from today (06 October) until the next couple of days. Provinces which will be affected are Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. Sakina Kamwendo Kobus Cronje from the SA Weather services and ER24 Spokesperson, Chitra Bodasing has urged people to be cautious against heat stroke.
Market Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at the European retail sales numbers that came out yesterday, Nestle, the world's biggest food company, is in advanced talks with R&R Ice Cream to create a joint venture to run most of its ice cream business outside North America and New Europe Property Investment raises R2bn in fresh capital
The International Criminal Court has given the South African up to today (05 October) to give reasons why they did not arrest Omar Al-Bashir when he was in the country attending the African Union Summit in Johannesburg. President Jacob Zuma has defended the decision to allow Al Bashir to leave the country, because he was protected as a guest of the African Union. To look at the implication of this, we speak to Senior Researcher at the Institute for Global Dialogue, Sanusha Naidu
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela , sings a song for Pirates , looks at Asian shares as they rise, with the regional benchmark index heading for its longest winning streak in almost three months, the true risk behind the less than expected US jobs numbers and Glencore Surges Most on Record in Hong Kong Amid Unit-Sale Talks
The North West Business Forum says the killing of prominent businessman Wandile Bozwana came as no surprise - as the deceased has previously told them about his demise. Bozwana was gunned down by unknown men in Pretoria on Friday on his way from Johannesburg. He had been engaged in a court battle with the provincial government over two court orders he'd won against the province's government for a terminated contract. Zebilon Maine reports
Market Analyst at 27 FOUR Investments Mangers Nadir Thokan looks at the U.S. economy created 142,000 jobs in September, a number that missed expectations , South Africa Hedge Fund Managers beat benchmark equities index and answers why Telkom is a good buy
Abathembu Royal Family is calling for the immediate suspension of King Buyelekhaya Dalinyebo from his traditional role as King. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Chief Dalidumo Mtirara, spokesperson to the AbaThembu Royal Family.
A number of roads in the Sandton CBD, north of Johannesburg, will be closed to private motor vehicles from this morning. This will continue for the duration of the month long for the first official day of the Ecomobility World Festivalwhich gets underway in Johannesburg's commercial hub. Jo'burg Mayor Parks Tau has accepted that there will be some discomfort due to the road closures. But motorists aren't the only ones who'll be forced to swap their car keys for bicycle helmets - Tau will also lead by example. Tshepo Phagane reports...
The Royal Family of the Kingdom of AbaThembu are demanding the immediate suspension of AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo pending the finalisation of his proposed Constitutional court challenge. This after Dalindyebo's 15 years jail sentence was reduced to 12 years in jail by the Supreme Court of Appeals for the crimes he committed between 1995 and 1996. Amanda Nano reports
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at the VW emissions scandal opening the way for fuel cell cars that use our platinum, top quality South African coal ¬– once the darling of global markets – is now being left for dead as South African coal exportation gets turned on its head and Bad legislation is being blamed for the wipe-out of our once-buoyant diamond beneficiation industry.
Market Analyst and Homemade Economist Clive Ramathibela looks at most Asian stocks climbed, boosted by gain in Hong Kong, while oil rebounded, what to expect in Friday's jobs report and the super wealthy plan to make sure their kids stay super wealthy.
The City of Johannesburg aims to reduce the number of private vehicles on the roads by half. And for the whole of October it's encouraging citizens travelling to Sandton to make use of public transport and other non-motorised forms of transport. It hopes this will help reduce congestion and carbon emissions to lessen the negative impact caused by climate change. Tshepo Phagane reports
Justice Department Spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga says King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo of the AbaThembu clan has 48 hours to report to a correctional centre near the court where he was convicted. The King lost his appeal in the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein yesterday (Thursday 1 October) and was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment. He was convicted of arson‚ culpable homicide, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm‚ and defeating the ends of justice. The chief executive of the Xhosa Royal Council, Zolani Mkiva, says it is unacceptable that the king be sent to jail.
Democratic Alliance MP Dianne Kohler-Barnard is facing disciplinary action for sharing a post on Facebook which praised apartheid leader, PW Botha. Kohler-Barnard reportedly said she did not read the full text of the post. Former DA leader Helen Zille went on Twitter to ask her to withdraw the post and apologise unconditionally. Kohler-Barnard went on Twitter to say that she apologises unreservedly for sharing the post on Facebook, and that she erased it immediately when she realised
Nadir Thokan, Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers tell us about the consumer and business confidence numbers that came out yesterday, US job numbers expected what can we expect and Euro zone inflation turned negative again in September as oil prices tumbled.
The ANC Youth League has embarked on a quest to reclaim it's former glory of being at the forefront of youth struggles. The League has announced sweeping decisions, including taking up the fight against Gauteng's e-tolls. They will also be taking on Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande to force him to provide free tertiary education. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
The bodies of the nine fishermen who drowned when their fishing trawler got into difficulties in rough seas on the False Bay Coast last weekend, have been identified. Nine others survived and three more are still missing. The 42-metre-fishing trawler started taking in water during rough seas and the crew abandoned ship. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister, Senzeni Zokwana, has met with management of the Viking Fishing Company which owned the trawler. Berenice Moss reports...
- Asian stocks rose with U.S. equity-index futures as reports showing a stabilization in China's manufacturing activity boosted demand for riskier assets
- China to Lose Earliest Manufacturing Gauge as Flash PMI Ends
- Wal-Mart Said to Plan Hundreds of Job Cuts at Headquarters
National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega has dismissed the civil rights organisation AfriForum's claim that statistics released yesterday, are not a true reflection on the state of crime in the country. AfriForum briefed the media in Pretoria in reaction to the latest crime statistics. The crime statistics that Police Minister Nathi Nhleko and Phiyega released have identified some areas in the country, as crime free. Kwa-Mashu in Kwa-Zulu/Natal has been stated as being crime free. And in Durban, it was indicated there had been NO car hijackings. This was also the case in Polokwane in Limpopo. Maluti Obuseng reports
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has called for a meeting with film stakeholders to discuss challenges faced by filmmakers. This comes after exhibitors decided to reduce the number of screens and performing sites at which the local romantic comedy film Tell Me Sweet Something, directed by Akin Omotoso, is being shown. Omotoso says the romantic comedy reached the R1 million mark in its first five days of release. Yet exhibitors, allegedly decided to reduce the number of screenings from 47 to 27. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head writer, filmmaker and director, Akin Omotoso jus more.
The World Health Organisation says HIV patients should be given anti-retroviral drugs soon after diagnosis instead of waiting for their immune cell counts to fall below a certain threshold. The organisation says clinical trials have confirmed that early drug use extends the lives of those living with the virus. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of Policy at the Treatment Action Campaign, Marcus Louw.....
The National Union of Mineworkers is threatening strike action against the coal sector. The union has issued a 48 hour strike notice to various coal mining companies after wage talks collapsed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Chief Negotiator, Peter Bailey...
The National Union of Mineworkers is threatening strike action against the coal sector. The union has issued a 48 hour strike notice to various coal mining companies after wage talks collapsed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Chief Negotiator, Peter Bailey...
On the back of recent job losses and tough economic times, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) has issued a report that shows that South African consumers owed financial institutions 1.63-trillion rand in the second quarter. The report also shows that the number of consumers with impaired credit records increased by 124-thousand to 10.5-million in the second quarter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ngoako Mabeba, Manager for Statistics at the NCR.
- Lets talk about the World Economic Forum's global competitive rankings released yesterday
- Chinese PMI released yesterday
- Eurozone inflation data that came out yesterday
National Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega, has attributed the slow rate of promotion in the police service to trade union Solidarity. Solidarity has served interdicts on the police to freeze posts, and accuses the SAPS of sidelining its members because of their skin colour. Phiyega announced in Pretoria that 14-thousand constables and sergeants have been promoted. Seven thousand of them effective from October. Seven-thousand more constables and sergeants who would have spent 11 years in the service, will be promoted in the next financial year. Phumzile Mlangeni reports
Markets analyst , Clive Ramathibela
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Asian Stocks Rebound as Ringgit Pares Worst Quarter Since 1997
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Japan Tobacco Inc. fell the most in four and a half years after agreeing to pay about $5 billion for the international rights to Reynolds American Inc.'s Natural American Spirit division
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Platinum poised for worst quarter in 7 years on VW scandal
National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega says more than 60-percent of murders that occur in the country happen during weekends. Phiyega and Police Minister Nathi Nhleko were briefing Parliament's Police Committee during the release of the annual crime figures for the 2014/2015 financial year. 83-percent of the population reported serious crime for that period. But committee members questioned the statistics as our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
Government is ready to talk out of court settlements with the Marikana miners. President Jacob Zuma says they are considering initiating an alternative dispute resolution process to expedite the processing of all claims arising from the 2012 tragedy. This comes after the Arrested and wounded miners as well as the widows of the deceased miners launched a billion rand civil claim suit against government last month. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
The ANC rejects claims that it was involved in the transaction between Hitachi and its investment arm, Chancellor House. This relates to a deal in which Hitachi allegedly sold a 25 percent stake in a South African subsidiary to an alleged front company of the ANC. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the ANC's National Spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa
On the day the Police Minister released the national crime statistics, which indicated a drop in cash-in-transit robberies, two people - one a cash in transit guard - were shot and killed in an armed robbery at a shopping mall in Ga-Rankuwa, north of Pretoria. The latest statistics indicate cash-in-transit robberies are down by 17-point-nine per cent and bank robberies by 19 per cent. Ga-Rankuwa has been labelled as one of the crime hot-spots in Gauteng. Phanuel Shuma reports from the crime scene at Ga-Rankuwa shopping mall.
Unemployment and poverty continue to be among some the biggest challenges facing South Africa. With the unofficial unemployment rate at almost 40 percent, and the economic growth revised downwards, the gap between the rich and the poor is likely to grow wider. This is part of the reason why the Nelson Mandela Foundation has invited renowned French economist Professor Thomas Piketty, to deliver the 13th annual Nelson Mandela Lecture. He is popular for his views on inequality. Morafe Tabane reports
- Asian stocks tumbled toward an almost three-year low, the cost of insuring debt in the region surged and the yen advanced as a selloff in commodity-trading firms spooked investors
- The 15-month commodities free-fall is starting to resemble a full-blown crisis - Glencore
- South Africa's rand weakens as China growth worries weigh on EM
Mineral resource deputy minister,Godfrey Oliphant, says some illegal mining operation needs to be legalized. This follows a recent incident where five bodies were discovered in an open veld in Springs on Gauteng's East Rand. Sakina spoke to Social Anthropologist from Wits University, who has done research on illegal mining, Prof Robert Thornton.
Mineral resource deputy minister, Godfrey Oliphant, says some illegal mining operation needs to be legalized. This follows a recent incident where five bodies were discovered in an open veld in Springs on Gauteng's East Rand. A fight is believed to have ensued between rival groups of illegal miners in the area. Some of the miners had been shot, while others stabbed with sharp objects. Oliphant say they will not rest until they eliminate the big shots behind the illegal operations. Mpho Lepedi reports
A defiant Zimbabwean President and AU Chair, Robert Mugabe has denounced what he called the illegal sanctions imposed on his country by the European Union and the United States. The 91-year old president was addressing the UN General Debate in New York. He re-iterated Africa's common position on the reform of the Security Council and rejected attempts to prescribe new rights that are contrary to the values and traditions of certain countries. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
President Jacob Zuma has given a hard hitting speech at the United Nations General Assembly urging the international body to be more reflective of today's world. Addressing the 70th session in New York, president Zuma decried the lack progress in resolving the Palestinian question and urged the world to tackle the climate challenge when the UN conference meets in Paris in December. Presidential correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports from New York.
About eighty offenders are serving their prison terms in dilapidated structures made from corrugated iron at the Tzaneen correctional centre in Limpopo. This is despite having a newly built prison, standing vacant in the vicinity. Last week two prisoners escaped from the structure through the roof. There is also no recreational facilities for the inmates. Correctional service officers are operating from an old farm house that has been converted into offices. Witness Tiva reports
South African comedian Trevor Noah has officially taken over from Jon Stewart as the host of the Daily Show. Noah's grandmother, Nomalizo Noah, says she is a proud grandmother. The 88 year old was at her Orlando east home in Soweto when the show was aired. Pearl Magubane reports
The SABC's annual financial report tabled in parliament last week drew strong criticisms from a host of political organisations in the country. Many questioned the wisdom of a pay rise of R1million to the broadcaster's COO, while the Corporation had incurred a R400 million loss in the last financial year. On the Forum@8 we speak to the SABC Chief Operations Officer, Hlaudi Motsoeneng the Chief Financial Officer James Aguma and SABC’s Commercial Adviser Anton Heinus
A South African who was held in Equatorial Guinea for two years, has arrived back in the country. Daniel Janse van Rensburg had been detained after a deal with a local businessman turned sour. Van Rensburg was meant to leave Guinea on Thursday, but was blocked by men believed to be working for a former Malabo mayor who accused him of stealing money. For more on this we're now joined on the line by the family spokesperson, Fran Kirsten
- Asian markets slightly negative this morning despite mixed US equity market
- Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen said the U.S. central bank is on track to raise interest rates this year
- VW's new CEO set to change strategy
Plans for the anti-corruption march which was expected to take place on Wednesday seems to be disrupted. This after the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) gave Numsa permission to strike on a different date than the one they planned for. According to Media reports, Federation of Unions of SA (Fedusa) general secretary, Dennis George, blames Numsa for jumping the gun by announcing the date before it got approval from Nedlac. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to former General Secretary of Cosatu, Zwelinzima Vavi
The Department of Correctional Services has discovered and prevented escape plans by their inmates at Zonderwater Correctional Centre. According to media reports, Czech fugitive Radovan Krejcir was among the inmates who were planning a prison break. A number of illegal items like pistol, ammunition, a knife, 10 cell phones, a memory stick and a diary which contained the names of witnesses and investigators in his cases, were discovered in his cell. To tell us more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for Departmental of Correctional Services, Manelisi Wolela
DA leader Mmusi Maimane says the ANC in the Western Cape failed to run the province when it was in power and accused it of achieving flying colours when it came to corruption. He was addressing supporters at at Bishop Lavis on the Cape flats over the weekend as part of his vision 2029 tour. Maimane visited various part of the Western Cape - the only Province under DA control. Our parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
- Lets talk about the GDP growth numbers that came out of the U.S. on Friday
- Outflows from emerging markets and their impact
- The stepping down of Tiger Brands CEO
For the first time since 1982, sky gazers were treated to a double spectacle of a swollen "supermoon" bathed in the blood-red light of a total eclipse, this morning. The last time such a confluence happened was in 1982....there were just five such instances in the 20th century. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Astronomical Society of Southern Africa's Johannesburg Centre chairperson and viewing officer, Jerome Jooste.
President Jacob Zuma has called on the African Diaspora to play a meaningful role in supporting the African Union's twenty sixty three agenda. A blueprint socio-economic development initiative which embodies a renewed commitment by African leaders to achieve the pan-African vision of integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. President Zuma delivered a public lecture at the Princeton University in the US last night. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng has filed this report.
A body representing wildlife farmers in the country, Wildlife Ranching South Africa, has questioned the legitimacy of a multi-million rand BEE deal awarded to ANC heavyweights in North West, including former Rustenburg Municipal Mayor Matthew Wolmarans. Wolmarans together with his associates, former Rustenburg Municipal Manager Andries Boshoff, and tenderpreneur Mike de Kock, benefited from a hefty donation of wild animals, including a hundred and thirty Buffalo, fifty Rhino and fifty Sable Antelope, worth a hundred million rand from the North West Provincial Parks Board. Opposition parties in the North West Provincial Legislature say the deal was never advertised for public participation and therefore, it should be investigated. Tshepang Molale reports
Durban taxi strike has finally been suspended after a last minute agreement between taxi bosses and the eThekwini municipality was reached. As part of the agreement, taxi operators will pay reduced fines for the impounded taxis at the centre of the dispute. Small businesses and hawkers have lost hundreds of thousands of rands as people couldn't get to work and many shops remained closed. This report from our Durban office
This week, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly Martin Creamer looks at the, Heat that’s been going waste for decades is now being turned into valuable electricity at a platinum smelter in Rustenburg, BMW has unveiled the first charging station for electric cars at Melrose Arch in Johannesburg and Japan is standing ready to invest big in South Africa if we re-establish a solid infrastructure platform.
The appointment of Mosebenzi Zwane as the new Mineral Resources Minister has been met with criticism within the mining industry. While some are questioning his background in mining, others are wondering how he is going to further the work that his predecessor Ngoako Ramatlhodi began with industry players. Bongi Gwala spoke to Special Advisor to Minister Ramatlhodi, Advocate Mahlodi Muofhe
The taxi strike in Durban is set to continue as taxi bosses and Government officials failed to reach an agreement in a meeting which lasted late into yesterday evening(Wednesday). Bongi Gwala spoke to Kwanele Ncalane, spokesperson for KZN Transport Department
The taxi strike in Durban is set to continue as taxi bosses and Government officials failed to reach an agreement in a meeting which lasted late into yesterday evening(Wednesday). Bongi Gwala spoke to Kwanele Ncalane, spokesperson for KZN Transport Department
United Nations data shows that Zimbabwe has the highest if not the best ratio of school books per student. An achievement that has come despite incredible odds and often controversial methods used by private citizens to make sure children stay in school. Shingai Nyoka reports
As many as 11-million Volkswagen vehicles may be recalled globally. The vehicle manufacturer has been implicated in an international scandal relating to falsifying the emissions data of its diesel engines to mislead vehicle pollution regulators. Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn has reportedly apologized for the carmaker's dishonourable dealings in the United States and pledged full co-operation with the authorities. Bongi Gwala speaks to Acting General Manager for the Automotive Division at National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications Temba Kaula.
The taxi strike in Durban is set to continue as taxi bosses and Government officials failed to reach an agreement in a meeting which lasted late into yesterday evening(Wednesday). Taxi operators in the city downed tools on Monday leaving thousands of commuters stranded. They demand that hundreds of their mini-buses impounded by the municipality be released. However, the municipality isn't prepared to release the vehicles. Political parties have also weighed-in on the strike. Mbuso Mkhize reports
Executive Chairperson of Mmakau Mining Bridgette Radebe says they welcome the move to reshuffle minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi as he has interests in minning industry.
Newly-appointed Mineral Resources Minister, Mosebenzi Zwane, will be sworn in as a member of cabinet this afternoon at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. President Jacob Zuma last night announced a cabinet reshuffle. Advocate Ngoako Ramatlhodi has been moved to the Public Service and Administration Department after Collins Chabane and his two protectors were killed in a crash in March.for reaction Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Bridgette Radebe
- Global Selloff Deepens as China Flash PMI Affirms Slowdown Fears
- The commodity and currency battle continues as the Euro struggles against major peers
- Unbundling the cost of the VW scandal
South Africa will introduce a special permit for Basotho living, working or studying here from 2016. Home affairs minister Malusi Gigaba announced the Lesotho special dispensation - a much awaited outcome - at the conclusion of two days of talks with his Lesotho counterpart Lekhetho Rakuoane. Nthakoana Ngatane reports
Economists expect the Reserve Bank to continue its balancing act between managing the risk to growth and threats of rising inflation. The six-member monetary policy committee will deliver its interest rate decision after three days of deliberations. It's widely expected that most members of the MPC would prefer rates to remain unchanged at six percent for now. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
Newly-appointed Mineral Resources Minister, Mosebenzi Zwane, will be sworn in as a member of cabinet this afternoon at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. President Jacob Zuma last night announced a cabinet reshuffle. Advocate Ngoako Ramatlhodi has been moved to the Public Service and Administration Department after Collins Chabane and his two protectors were killed in a crash in March. Zwane is an ANC Member of Parliament and former Free State Agriculture, Economic Development and tourism MEC. To unpack this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Policy and Political analyst from UNISA, Prof Somadoda Fikeni...
Political parties in Parliament say the decision to establish a board of inquiry to determine the fitness of National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega to hold office, was long overdue. The announcement by the Presidency of a board of inquiry into Phiyega's fitness to hold office follows recommendations by the Farlam commission that looked into the deaths of 44 people, 34 of them miners, at Marikana in 2012. Phiyega has until Monday to make representations on why she should not be suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry. Zalene Merrington reports..
- SA Reserve Bank interest rate decision, what to expect?
- Volkswagen Scandal, effects on the motor car industry and SA
- Dual citizenship for South Africans, what is the big deal?
- SA Reserve Bank interest rate decision, what to expect?
- Volkswagen Scandal, effects on the motor car industry and SA
- Dual citizenship for South Africans, what is the big deal?
Taxi operators in the Ethekwini Metro in KwaZulu Natal have vowed to remain on strike until more than three hundred of their impounded vehicles have been released by the municipality. Thousands of commuters in and around Durban were left stranded. Taxi operators say municipal officials are targeting and impounding their vehicles, although an agreement was reached with the city in May that permit enforcement would be relaxed. Metered cab operators have also joined the strike, citing victimisation by the city's law enforcement officials. Mbuso Mkhize reports..
- Asian stocks clawed back some of Monday's losses
- China Stocks Post Longest Win Streak in Month
- U.S. investment agency to fund $400 million South Africa solar power plant
With reports emerging of a potential civil war in Burkina Faso following a coup last week, the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon has reiterated his call for the country's security forces to show restraint. Military units of the armed forces are marching on the capital Ouagadougou to disarm an elite presidential guard responsible for last Thursday coup. While regional mediators are expected to meet for an extraordinary summit of ECOWAS in Nigeria tomorrow, the United Nations is calling for a swift resumption of the country's transitional process. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Various teacher unions have expressed that that they do not want the Annual National Assessments (ANA) to take place this year. The unions say ANA is flawed and needs to be revised. However Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga is adamant that national assessments for grade 1 to 9 learners in public schools will continue this year. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prof Ruksana Osman- Head of the Wits School of Education …
The ANC says it's still committed to media freedom. However, Minister of Small Business Development and ANC head of Communication - Lindiwe Zulu - raised concerns about lack of transformation in the media and unfair reporting on the ANC. She was participating in a discussion on media transformation hosted by the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal at the Durban City Hall last night. The ANC has released its policy documents ahead of the National General Council in October. One of the documents is titled: The Battle For Ideas, Media Transformation and Diversity, and Accelerating Future. Meanwhile, other participants in the discussion were Premier Senzo Mchnu, City Press Editor Mondli Makhanya and Advocate Robin Sewlal of the Journalism School at the Durban University of Technology. Zanele Buthelezi reports……
The ANC is calling for a review of the number of provinces. This would see fewer but larger provinces. The Chairperson of the ANC sub-committee on Legislature and Governance, Nomaindia Mfeketo, was quoted as saying the re-configuration of provinces has nothing to do with reclaiming the Western Cape. It is to make sure that the country's resources are shared equally across the provinces.
Robotic surgery has dramatically improved the treatment of prostate cancer since its introduction in South Africa two years ago. Dr Lance Coetzee, from The Urology Hospital in Pretoria, says the hospital has completed almost 400 successful robotic prostatectomies. These hold a host of significant benefits for men such as reduced risk of complications and a quicker recovery time.
- US Interest rates kept on hold, what does this mean going forward?
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Recent corporate action: " Koos Bekker selling 70% of his shareholding in Naspers " Kagiso Media acquires 37% of Ghana's Global Media Alliance Broadcasting Company
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Chamber of Mines safety stoppages by DMR causing lost revenue for the mining companies
The embattled Oudtshoorn Municipality in the Little Karoo has once again seen a change in power...barely two months after the DA's take-over in July...and weeks after the municipality was placed under administration. The council was thrown into chaos last Friday after councillors of the NPP and a DA councillor sided with the ANC - giving them a majority. Motions of no-confidence were passed...and a new mayor, deputy mayor and speaker were elected. Following the shake up...former Mayor Gordon April is now once again Mayor. The NPP's John Stoffels who in July sided with the DA, has returned to supporting the ANC and retains his position as Deputy Mayor. And ICOSA's Vlancio Donson who was ousted as former Deputy Mayor, is now the speaker. Mlamli Maneli reports...
A Danish national has been remanded in custody in Bloemfontein in the Free State after police found female genitalia in his freezer. The 63-year-old man, Peter Frederiksen, faces five charges including sexual assault and removal of human organs. Police are also investigating possible cases against him in Lesotho and Denmark. Konelo Lekhafola reports
- Asian stocks dropped with U.S. index futures and emerging-market currencies as concern global growth is faltering spurred investors to sell riskier assets and seek the relative safety of government debt
- Alexis Tsipras will return to power in Greece following another emphatic election victory
- All eyes on the MPC on Wednesday as gloom still sits on the Rand
Yesterday the minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga met with unions in the education sector, SADTU & Naptosa this as the debate on whether to administer the Annual National Assessments (ANAs) rages on. The pupils were supposed to take the Annual Assessments this week, while the unions want them to be postponed to February next year. For more on this we are now joined on the line by the Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga and SADTU Deputy General Secretary , Nkosana Dolopi ...
The Congress of South Africa Trade Unions - COSATU - has called on workers to rally behind its campaign to put pressure on government and the private sector to create more jobs. Cosatu General Secretary Bheki Ntshalintshali addressed the KwaZulu-Natal Shopstewards Council at the Durban City Hall. The labour federation is mobilizing workers against retrenchments, proposed VAT increases and lack of efficient public transport - among other issues. Cosatu is planning to hold a nationwide strike for October 7 to mark the World Day for Decent Work. Zanele Buthelezi
Twins Sabelo and Samkelo Maisela, who were necklaced by Etwatwa residents near Daveyton on Gauteng's East Rand earlier this week, have been laid to rest. They are two of the three victims who were accused of being involved with the gang called OVL. The gang terrorised the community for months. Ditaba Tsotetsi compiled this report...
Learning and teaching has been disrupted at a farm school in Piet Retief in Mpumalanga since July, due to lack of scholar transport. About 190 learners at the Nokuthula Primary School were unable to attend classes because their transport was allegedly cancelled by the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport. Parents of the learners claim to have raised the matter with the department with no success.. Motsebi wa Monareng reports..
A man suspected of being part of a notorious gang terrorising communities has been attacked and necklaced by angry residents of Etwatwa near Daveyton on Gauteng's East Rand. The man was saved by police and taken to hospital. The attack follows the deaths of three boys who had also been necklaced and killed earlier this week. Sashin Naidoo reports...
Graduates in Information Systems are in great demand. There is an abundance of opportunities with South African job websites looking to absorb as many young talented graduates as possible. This is providing a positive take on an otherwise gloomy employment picture. Professor Kevin Johnston, Head of the Information Systems at UCT, has produced hundreds of graduates who have been absorbed by many reputable local and international companies.
A Senior Researcher for West Africa in the Africa Conflict Prevention Programme at the Institute for Security Studies, David Zounmenou, says hat the military has no business to be involved in politics in Burkina Faso. This, following the military overthrow of the country's interim government on Wednesday, which saw both the interim president Michel Kafando and prime minister Isaac Zida briefly arrested. Following the coup, nervous citizens stayed at home and businesses were closed.
The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein will hear an appeal today against a Western Cape Town High Court judgment ordering that SABC Chief Operating Officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng be suspended and disciplinary steps be taken against him. The Democratic Alliance went to the High Court to enforce the remedial action proposed by Public Protector Thuli Madonsela that disciplinary steps be taken against Motsoeneng. Western Cape Town High Court Judge Ashton Schippers found that Madonsela's findings were not binding and enforceable. However, they also could not be ignored but must be properly considered. Judge Schippers added that if they are rejected, the rejection must be rational. Kelebohile Leche reports
Gift of the Givers is on another mission to provide humanitarian aid to the desperate people of Yemen. Yemen, one of the poorest countries in the world, has seen years of conflict and division. Yolande Korkie, the wife of Pierre Korkie who was killed in Yemen in 2014, has added her voice to the campaign, urging South Africans to assist in providing humanitarian aid for the people of Yemen. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the founder of Gift of the Givers Dr Imtiaz Sooliman.
In what analysts have labelled a dovish statement, the U.S. Federal Reserve has left interest rates unchanged for nearly a decade now. Economists say the Fed is caught between a rock and a hard place, especially with a strong dollar which also a reserve currency. Dimakatso Leshoro reports..
- Its all about the Fed as Yellen keeps rates flat
- Market shrugs off Fed decision to remain largely unchanged
- Oil stable as pressure shows up with some U.S. Shale bankruptcies
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu says he was suspected in the murder of his bodyguard who was gunned down in July. Mchunu revealed this during an address at the Provincial POPCRU congress in Durban. 24-year-old Xolani Nkosi was murdered in his car at Empangeni. The shooting heightened political tensions in the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal as it came soon after the death of party regional leader, Thulani Mashaba. Zanele Buthelezi reports
Plans are underway to move over four-thousand inmates, including juveniles and those awaiting trial, from Pollsmoor Correctional Facility in Cape Town to other facilities in the Western Cape. This follows the death of two inmates last month after contracting Leptospirosis, a disease spread through contact with rat urine. Megan Flemmit reports...
The Department of Home Affairs has pleaded with the Constitutional Court to reconsider a decision to dismiss its appeal regarding an office for refugees. The appeal relates to the decision to close down the Refugee Reception Office in Port Elizabeth. The Constitutional Court's refusal to hear the appeal means the Department has three months within which to re-open the office. This was the order of the Supreme Court of Appeal which also has implications for the Cape Town office which was also been closed down. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan reports.
L:Justice and Correctional Services Minister Michael Masutha says he is in the process of finalizing parole recommendations of more than 33 political prisoners requesting pardon for politically motivated crimes. The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leadeship says this is long over due. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IFP Member of Parliament, Albert Mcwango...
There have been mixed reaction from some of the political parties to the recommendation to release 33 prisoners jailed for politically linked crimes on parole. The National Council of Correctional Services has recommended parole for 33 qualifying prisoners. Correctional Services and Justice Minister Michael Masutha says he will consider their records before deciding whether to approve the recommendations. While welcoming this development, the IFP and the PAC are demanding engagement on the process to ensure the release of all the political prisoners that are still in the country's jails. Zanele Buthelezi reports
Five people were killed at KwaMashu Hostel, north of Durban. A group of five people allegedly opened fire, killing four on the spot, while another died on the way to hospital. The fifth person believed to be one of the suspects was found dead with a 9mm pistol next to him. It's not clear who shot him. Fanele Mhlongo reports
Five people were killed at KwaMashu Hostel, north of Durban, yesterday morning (wednesday 16 September). A group of five people allegedly opened fire, killing four on the spot, while another died on the way to hospital. The MEC for the Department of Transport, Community Safety, and Liaison in KwaZulu Natal, Willies Mchunu, has condemned the killings. he spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Presidential guard members loyal to former Burkina Faso President Blaise Compaore have detained President Michel Kafando and his cabinet. Kafando was chosen as interim president last October after the ousting of Compaore. The detention of the nation's transitional leader has triggered immediate street protests outside the presidential palace, raising fears of a coup few weeks before the country. To get the latest, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Veteran Editor Mathata Tsedu in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
- SABmiller approached by InBev to create worlds largest brewer
- SA retail sales still in low single digits
- Its Dday for the Fed today assets globally rallied,are they ready for a hike?
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has called the African Growth and Opportunity Act the corner-stone of the trade relationship between his country and South Africa. He was speaking at the conclusion of the biennial strategic dialogue with International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana Mashabane where issues of regional security, trade and development and public health were discussed. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The EFF in Parliament says it will make sure that National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete informs Lonmin mine that the Assembly says the mining company is "corrupt to the core". This comes after the EFF successfully presented a motion without notice in the house last week, and without any objection from any political party in the House. But the ANC wants an investigation on how the motion slipped through. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
The bodies of at-least eleven illegal miners are still trapped underground at a disused mine shaft in Benoni on Gauteng's East Rand. It is understood that the bodies of a group of eight miners have been trapped in a shaft for almost three weeks, after they were killed when a generator exploded underground. The bodies of another three miners are also trapped, after they died due to a lack of oxygen last week. Sashin Naidoo reports
Zimbabwe's main opposition Movement for Democratic Change party has claimed that several of its legislators received death threats. The threats sent via SMS came as President Robert Mugabe officially opened the third session of the eighth parliament Tuesday. During the address to parliament there was an apparent mix-up as President Mugabe read the wrong speech. Shingai Nyoka reports
The Chamber of Mines is expected to present a draft agreement to three gold mining sector unions next week, at wage talks mediated by the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA). These unions, Solidarity, NUM and UASA have in principle agreed to a six per cent increase for artisans and thirty two percent for entry level employees spread over three years. Meanwhile, AMCU says it is disappointed with the Chamber's revised offer and might formally reject the offer next week in a separate bilateral meeting. Frank Nxumalo reports
The Deputy Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development Mr John Jeffery says the constitution is not an easy document to read. The Minister was responding to a Forum@8 discussion in which SAfm listeners said the constitution was not easily accessible.
President Jacob Zuma says government is studying the International Criminal Court's deadline of the 4th of next month to respond to its order regarding Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir. The ICC earlier ordered South Africa to explain why it did not arrest Bashir when he was in the country in July. President Al-Bashir has been wanted since 2009 on charges of crimes against humanity. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports
South Africa has declined in rank in the annual economic freedom index released earlier this week. The index shows that the country declined from 42nd place in 2000 to 96th out of 157 countries and territories. The report was released by the Free Market Foundation. South Africa ranked 89th in the previous index. Amina Accram reports
NYDA has received its first-ever clean audit report. The Deputy Minister responsible for youth development, Buti Manamela, says this report will be an opportunity to partner with the private sector and turn around the situation of young people. He was also quoted as saying that the perception that the NYDA belongs to the ANC Youth League or the Young Communist League, is a fallacy. On the line now to discuss this is the Executive Chairperson of the NYDA, Yershen Pillay.
The leadership of the ANC Women's League has given its marching orders to its deployees across all spheres of government. Yesterday in Johannesburg, the League's top structures met with Cabinet ministers, MECs, Speakers of Provincial parliaments and mayors who form part of its membership. The meeting was aimed at communicating the organisation's vision and programme of action to strengthen it going forward. It follows their inaugural NEC meeting over the weekend. Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe reports.
Mohammed Nalla Strategist at Nedbank Capital looks at the U. S FED remains the core focus for this week with their decision on Thursday, eyes on the current account data out for South Africa this morning and Chinese attempt to bring on shore and offshore Yuan value closer together
Gauteng Education Department has confirmed that one of several bullies at the Laerskool Randfontein on Gauteng's West-Rand has been suspended. The remaining thirteen primary school children will learn their fate tomorrow (wednesday 16 September) during a disciplinary hearing. Video footage of the bullying incident went viral on social media over the weekend. Jacques Steenkamp reports
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets retreat following volatile Chinese markets, Japanese leave rates unchanged reassuring that the economy is stable and Finance Minister Nlanhla Nene confident of SA economy despite the negative sentiments
- Asian stocks advanced, led by gains in Hong Kong, after China published plans to reform its state-run companies as it battles to meet economic-growth targets
- Singapore's ruling party, fresh off a big win in parliamentary elections, will need to guard against complacency as it heads into its sixth decade of leadership
- Baidu's Li Says Investors Don't Get China's Coming Internet Boom, which could also influence emerging markets e.g. South Africa
As from Monday, the power system will be tight as Eskom will be undertaking maintenance work. This planned maintenance, which will be taking place on the Cahora-Bassa Hydroelectric scheme together with Hidroelectrica de Cahora Bassa, will result in South Africa getting only 650 megawatts instead of its usual daily 1 500megawatts. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom's Spokesperson, Khulu
The beatification of Blessed Benedict Daswa has been used as a platform to call for an end to violence and senseless killings linked to witchcraft and witch hunts in South Africa. A call was also made for the strengthening of families, in honour of Blessed Daswa. Daswa has now officially been named a "Blessed" after the beatification service at his home village of Tshitanini outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo yesterday. Thousands of people came to the rural village to witness the making of a blessed. Thabile Mbhele reports
The national education department on Friday announced the writing of the Annual National Assessments (ANA) has been postponed to next year. The announcement came after threats from teacher unions to boycott the ANA - a series of tests for learners between grades one and nine to test their numeracy and literacy levels. To talk to us about the implications of this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Education Specialist, Graeme Bloch….
Thousands of technical and private college students have been affected by a top-level probe which was instituted by the Department of Higher Education and Training after exam papers were leaked to candidates via WhatsApp. The leaked papers fell under Natural Sciences studies, which affected students from the country's technical, vocational, and private colleges. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to th eDepartment of Higher education and training's Chief Director for exams and assessments, Nadine Potes…
Parents of the children from Roodepoort Primary School, west of Johannesburg, say they want the department to tighten the security at the school. This came out during a meeting which Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi, held with them at Matholeville in Roodepoort. The meeting was aimed at addressing the parents' request, to not send their children back to Roodepoort Primary school. The school was closed last month following violent disruptions. It was also alleged that the principal was unfairly appointed. Neliswa Mavundla reports.
The inquest into the death of Anika Smit, a 17 year old who was sexually molested, stabbed and her hands cut off, will start in the Pretoria North Magistrates court today (MONDAY). Smit was found dead in her father's house in Theresapark, Pretoria, in March 2010. She was in grade 11 at Gerrit Maritz High School when she was murdered. Her father made the gruesome discovery. Liela Magnus reports ....
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says government does not have an immediate answer to a call for by the protesting residents of Vuwani to have the decision by the Municipal Demarcation Board reversed. Residents have asked the Deputy President to investigate the municipal demarcation board's decision to have some parts of Vuwani merged with Malamulele to form a new municipality. They believe that the decision was politically motivated. Schooling has been disrupted and businesses vandalised and looted. Witness Tiva reports...
- Asian stocks fell, paring the regional benchmark measure's first weekly advance since July. Consumer and industrial shares declined
- South African insurer Discovery to set up retail bank
- South Africa July factory production up 5.6 % year/year
The discovery of fossils of a new species called Homo Naledi at the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site near Johannesburg, has received mixed reaction. While some welcomed the discovery, others questioned how this species can be related to human beings. Someone who thinks the researchers could have used the money and resources differently, Founding President of the Kara Heritage Institute, Dr Mathole Motshekga.
Police Minister, Nathi Nhleko, says police killings are an attack on the state. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Police Minister
Police Minister, Nathi Nhleko, says police killings are an attack on the state. He was taking part in a debate in the National Assembly on police killings. Nhleko says 60 police officers have been killed so far this year alone. Nearly half of them died while on duty. Last weekend, President Jacob Zuma called for a tactical plan to be implemented urgently, to combat the killing of police officers. On Wednesday, two officers were killed in Dobsonville in Gauteng. Zalene Merrington reports
Yesterday, we had the Northern Areas Education Forum on the show. They said that the Basic Education Department is not serious in addressing their concerns which include teacher shortages and payment of teachers. The Forum Spokesperson said they have resolved that as a result, schools in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape will not be taking part in this year's annual national assessments. To hear the response by the Department of Basic Education, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Acting Chief Director: Communications, Elijah Mhlanga.
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South Africa made headlines worldwide yesterday, and for a change it was for a good reason. The discovery of the "Homo Naledi" fossils has put us firmly in the archaeological spotlight. Does this present any other benefits to us?
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Speaking of history, although a bit more recent, today marks the 14 year anniversary of 9-11. What's changed in the global economy and markets since then, or rather, because of it?
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So to some extent the current global debt levels are directly attributable to the events of September 2001. For half of this time, interest rates have been at record lows. As the world remains on Fed watch, what are your expectations around the first increase in US rates in 7 years?
The Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Lechesa Tsenoli, has made an impassioned plea to MPs not to use offensive language in the House. This comes after MPs hurled insults at each other and one MP used a swear word. MPs accused each other of being drunk in the National Assembly. This happened during ministerial statements. Zalene Merrington has more...
Schools in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape will not be taking part in this year's annual national assessments. This is according to the Northern Areas Education Forum (NAEF). The forum claims that for over 12 months, they have been asking the Basic Education Department to resolve issues like vacant posts and payment of teachers, but the department has failed them. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Secretary of the Northern Areas Education Forum, Richard Draai
In a last ditch bid to avoid paying up, two lawyers and a doctor have petitioned the Constitutional Court. They were saddled with potentially millions of rands of costs in a medical negligence claim. The High Court in Johannesburg found the Gauteng Department of Health liable for damages in a case which has dragged on for more than a decade. The court then ordered that the officials themselves, be held personally liable for part of the claim and half the trial costs. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan has the details
14 suspects who arrested for arson at Marapong township in Lephalale are expected to appear at the local magistrate court. They were part of a mob which allegedly torched 21 busses belonging to Lowveld company, a satellite police station, municipal office and also partly damaged a community library on monday evening. The community is demanding jobs, saying locals are not given first preference when the municipality and construction companies hire workers. Some of them used to work at Medupi power station and Grootgeluk coal mine before their contracts came to an end. Rudzani Tshivhase reports......
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AngloPlatinum and Sibyane Gold announced the deal around the Rustenburg mine as expected - what can you tell us about some of the details?
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Ratings agencies have been in the news again this week, first with Fitch announcing its withdrawal from the South African market, and then both Moody's and S&P lowering their forecasts for growth in Asian economies. What has the reaction in the market been on this news?
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The long awaited announcement about the re-launch of African Bank, or at least its "good bank", was finally made yesterday. What were some of the key points?
The Parliamentary Protection Services had to be called inside the National Assembly chamber to remove the Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema yesterday. This after the chairperson of the House Mmatlala Boroto asked Malema to withdraw remarks in which he called the Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa a murder in reference to the Marikana 2012 tragedy in which 44 people including 34 mineworkers were killed. A war of words between Malema and Boroto broke out before the scuffle started when the protection services were called in. Our Parliamentary Reporter Abongwe Kobokana compiled this report.
Classes at Roodepoort Primary School on Gauteng's West Rand are expected to resume today. The school has been experiencing violent protests and was temporarily closed for the third time last month. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi was quoted as saying that after careful inspection, he is confident that the school is ready to re-open. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Sashin Naidoo and the Spokesperson for the Davidsonville Community Forum, Ronald Dyers.
- Asian stocks surged, led by the biggest gain in four years for Japanese shares, while emerging-market and commodity-producer currencies strengthened amid optimism China will be able to stabilize its financial markets
- Apple Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Wells Fargo & Co. and General Motors Co. all posted gains of at least 2.7 percent amid a broad-based rally as investors returned from the Labour Day holiday
- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to follow through with a corporate-tax cut, a day after government data underscored businesses' reluctance to ramp up domestic investment
The South African National Roads Agency says they currently have a short fall of around 197-billion rand which they need to settle, in order to maintain the 750-thousand kilometres of roads across the country. SANRAL says the money they receive from government is not enough to support their operating costs and pay their outstanding debt. SANRAL has taken a media contingent on a tour of the existing Huguenot Tunnel between Paarl and Worcester as well as the adjacent tunnel which they intend opening to traffic as part of the Winelands toll project. The road agency is currently embroiled in a legal battle with the City of Cape Town over the proposed implementation of the project. Corbin August reports...
The United States embassy in Pretoria has issued a rare "terrorist threat" warning to US interests in the country, and advised its citizens to be on heightened alert against attack. The message released yesterday afternoon gave no information on the possible timing or target in South Africa, which has escaped the militant Islamist attacks seen in several other African countries. Kate Fisher reports from Washington
The United States embassy in Pretoria has issued a rare "terrorist threat" warning to US interests in the country, and advised its citizens to be on heightened alert against attack. The message released yesterday afternoon gave no information on the possible timing or target in South Africa, which has escaped the militant Islamist attacks seen in several other African countries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brooks Spector, US foreign policy expert and Associate Editor Daily Maverick and State Security Minister, David Mahlobo...
The United States embassy in Pretoria has issued a rare "terrorist threat" warning to US interests in the country, and advised its citizens to be on heightened alert against attack. The message released yesterday afternoon gave no information on the possible timing or target in South Africa, which has escaped the militant Islamist attacks seen in several other African countries. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brooks Spector, US foreign policy expert and Associate Editor Daily Maverick and State Security Minister, David Mahlobo...
The Post Office's Chief Operating Officer, Mlu Mathonsi, has told Parliament that the revenues are still not matching its costs, and that financial recovery has been slower than anticipated. But SAPO's ambitious turn-around strategy includes opening up new revenue streams, and they have approached commercial banks for funding. Esley Philander reports
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"Operation Phakisa" was back in the spotlight yesterday with a meeting of the Mining Sector Consultative Forum. We've been talking about the need for better communication and cooperation within the mining industry between government, business and labour. Are we finally making progress?
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Speaking of deals in the mining industry, Angloplats and Sibanye Gold have scheduled a joint media conference for later today. What's that all about?
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We've spoken before about the opportunities that the weakness in the Rand creates for certain industries in South Africa, of which mining is an obvious one. Tourism is another industry that should benefit from a weaker rand, but we have yet to see progress on this front. Has there been any new developments?
The Deputy Minister of Traditional Affairs, Obed Bapela, says the department will bring a draft bill to Parliament to enforce medical circumcision. Bapela briefed Parliament's portfolio committee on his department's report on initiation. During the past winter season, 34 young men died, ten less than last year. But Bapela says while the number of casualties is less than the previous period, too many initiates still die unnecessarily - particularly at illegal initiation schools. Zalene Merrington has more...
AfriForum Youth has issued a prevention plan for South African Universities that will ensure that Afrikaans is retained as a medium of instruction. They say Minister of Higher Education and Training, Blade Nzimande's political agenda to transform universities on a race basis is the reason why there has been a crisis at some South African Universities. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AfriForum Youth National Chairperson, Henk Maree
- Modi Gathers India's Top Economic Minds as Stocks with Asian markets still mixed
- Samsung Electronics Co. is preparing to cut 10 percent of workers at its headquarters
- European Stocks Rebound From Weekly Drop
The ANC Youth League's disgruntled members say they will challenge the outcomes of its conference in the Constitutional Court. The group unsuccessfully tried to stop this past weekend's elective congress. They say they do not recognise the new executive, as the processes which led to their election was irregular. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a member of the disgruntled North West ANCYL group, Thabo Molamu
About 21 busses, a satellite police station and a municipal office have been burnt down while a library was partly damaged at Marapong township of Lephalale in Limpopo last night. The damage was alleged caused by a mob of former construction workers at the nearby ESKOM's Medupi Power Station. The mob of those who were fired following an industrial action early this year and those whose contracts were terminated allegedly attacked buses which were packed near the local shopping center waiting to transport construction and mine workers to Medupi and the nearby EXXARO coal mine in the morning. Rudzani Tshivhase reports
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised South Africa's commitment in addressing challenges relating to sustainable management of the world's forests. Ramaphosa was addressing delegates at the 14th World Forestry Congress in Durban. Meanwhile, experts in the forestry sector and civil society groups have called for more bold and urgent measures for preserving the already under pressure forests of the world. Zanele Buthelezi reports
Police are monitoring the situation in Lephalale in Limpopo after about 21 busses, a satellite police station and a municipal office were set alight while a library was partly damaged at Marapong township. The damage was allegedly caused by a mob of former construction workers at the nearby ESKOM's Medupi Power Station. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Rudzani Tshavhase and Eskom Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe
Residents of the Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape say government intervention in the administration of this municipality has had very little impact on the services it provides to the people. The embattled municipality, which includes Grahamstown, Alicedale and Riebeck East, was placed under administration last year. A year later, the Select Committees on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs will visit the municipality to assess progress. Our reporter Lubabalo Dada spoke to residents a day before the visit and filed this report.
Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa has described the Bhisho Massacre as one of the saddest moments in his life where he witnessed 28 people die and 200 more injured on this day 23 years ago. Ramaphosa has been addressing dozens at the Bhisho stadium where the 23rd commemoration was held. He was among leaders of the ANC such as Chris Hani, Steve Tshwete and Ronnie Kasrils who led the march. They wanted the military leader Oupa Joshua Gqozo to step down, but they were gunned near the Bhisho Stadium. Yanga Funani and Camagwini Mavovana filed us this report
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We do not often discuss company specific news with you, but there were some interesting results released yesterday, including Sasol releasing full year numbers to June 2015. In the light of the massive decline in oil prices over the last 12 months, I would have expected these numbers to be quite dismal. Talk to us about the performance of Sasol.
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Another big commodity company that was in the news yesterday was Glencore. Their financial performance during the first half of the year was such that it pushed them to suspend dividends as well as announce that it would sell assets and shares to address its significant debt levels. What did you make of the news out of this global mining giant?
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Speaking of rights issues, hot on the heels of successfully avoiding a takeover bid by rival Curro, private education group AdvTech yesterday announced that they have embarked on a capital raising exercise to fund new investment opportunities. Is this the only reason why?
The African Nation Congress says it is considering banning dual citizenship. Obed Bapela, head of the party's National executive Committee's subcommittee on international relations says there are worrying issues that exist regarding South African Jews receiving military and intelligence training in Israel.
- Asian stocks fluctuated as early gains by Chinese shares evaporated after national holidays
- China Revises 2014 GDP Growth to 7.3% From 7.4%
- Oil Bears Cashing Out From Crude Market's Roller-Coaster Ride
The newly-elected ANC Youth League President, Collen Maine during his first speech told the delegates that they have a responsibility to go back to basics and remember that the ANC was formed as an organisation of the people. He promised that the character of the youth of 1944 will be restored in this new season of the youth league. Meanwhile, members who took the league to court before its elective congress this weekend will be expelled. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Dr Somadoda Fikeni...
Azanian People's Organisation says Steve Biko's political philosophies have been forgotten. This after a handful of AZAPO supporters marched to the Kgosi Mampuru prison in Pretoria, to commemorate their slain leader and hero who died in police custody on 12 September 1977. The march and visit to Biko's cell at the prison kickstarted the Steve Biko commemoration month.The Black Consciousness leader's life will be celebrated during numerous events set to take place nationally and internationally. Maluti Obuseng compiled this report
Newly elected leadership of the ANC Youth League has pledged to work towards uniting the league and reclaiming it's former glory of being a kingmaker in the ANC. The league elected a new leadership it's three day conference which ended earlier on Sunday in Midrand , north of Johannesburg. The conference also marked the end of the mandate of the national task team appointed by the ANC to rebuild the league. This is after it disbanded the league's national leadership for amongst others being ill-disciplined and for also sowing divisions within it's ranks. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
- The volatility in global markets continued unabated last week - there was little Spring cheer on the local front early in the week, but Wednesday and Thursday things seemed to recover very well, only to end the week on a very negative note. What role did China play in the market's performance last week and what is the outlook for the week ahead?
- After a particularly volatile and weak August, it would seem as if the market is starting to look at the longer term implications of the slowdown in China. What is the outlook for embattled emerging market currencies, and in particular, the rand?
- A few weeks ago we spoke about the establishment of the BRICS development bank. Do you think that events of the last few weeks will affect plans around this?
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, looks at; Gas represents a R250-billion opportunity for South Africa, according to McKinsey, one of the word’s foremost global consultancies, the petroleum refining industry this week became the latest sector to warn of survival risk and Gauteng’s gold-from-dumps miners are making heaps of cash on the strong rand gold price.
It's all systems go for the ANC Youth League's 25th National Conference this morning. The ANCYL National task Team says it can confirm that all provinces are on board. This is despite disputes by the Youth League's North West faction which has filed an urgent application to stop the conference from going ahead. It is alleging that there are unresolved disputes concerning the exclusion of some delegates. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National ANC spokesperson Zizi Kodwa
A group of ANC Youth League members in the North West have launched an urgent court application to stop the league's elective congress from going ahead . The group alleges that there are unresolved disputes concerning the exclusion of some delegates. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the North West ANC Youth League, Thabo Molamu....
A probe has found that the minibus taxi that crashed into a train killing 16 people in Stanger on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast last month was unroadworthy. This is despite the e-Natis system showing that the taxi had recently been tested and issued with a roadworthiness certificate in Gauteng. Fifteen people died after the driver lost control of the taxi, causing it to veer off the road and land on the railway tracks where it was hit by an oncoming train. A sixteenth person later died in hospital. MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Willies Mchunu, tabled an executive statement on the Shaka's Head crash in the provincial legislature in Pietermaritzburg. He also announced measures taken to address the increasing number of road crashes and fatalities in the province. Zanele Buthelezi reports
- U.S job numbers coming out today
- Exceptionally dovish comments for the ECB
- The woes facing SA retailers
DA says it will propose Constitutional amendments to ensure that key institutions remain free from political interference. The party says over the remainder of the parliamentary term, they will propose changes such as taking away the President's power to appoint and remove the National Director of Public Prosecutions. This must be done, the party says, to stop the eroding of institutions due to cadre deployment in, for instance, the Electoral Commission, the National Prosecuting Authority and the South African Revenue Service. Zalene Merrington reports
Police Minister Nathi Nhleko says the report by the Farlam Commission could provide an opportunity for transformation within the SA Police Service. He made these observations when he was presenting an implementation plan on the Marikana Commission's recommendations to the Portfolio Committee on Police in Parliament.
Parliament's Standing Committee on Finance has criticised the leadership of the South African Airways for failing to implement its turn-around strategy. SAA leadership was briefing parliament on its recovery plan and financial performance. Abongwe Kobokana reports
Ratings agency Moody's says electricity shortages coupled with low commodity prices and a severe drought will constrain the country's economy over the next 18 months. The agency expects South Africa to avoid recession in 2015. However, it forecasts growth of only 1.7 percent this year and of 1 point 9 percent in 2016. Growth at these levels will not reduce the unemployment rate significantly. Morafe Tabane reports...
- Eurozone PMI numbers coming out today
- SA business confidence coming out today
- Update from Moody's investor services recieved yesterday on SA
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is making progress in turning around struggling state-owed enterprises. Ramaphosa has told the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) that the majority of the SOE's are performing well and contributing to both the fiscus and transformation. Joseph Mosia reports
Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice Chancellor, Professor Wim de Villiers, has conceded that racism does exist on the university campus. He was briefing Parliament's portfolio committee on Higher Education and Training on allegations of racism levelled against the university. They're made in a video titled "Luister", made by a lobby group calling for transformation at Stellensbosch University. Zalene Merrington reports
Market Analyst at 27Four investments Nadir Thokan looks at Mckinsey's report on South Africa and the US manufacuring PMI.
Public shaming on social media was recently cast into the spotlight after a teenage girl in Washington threw herself off a bridge days after her father cut her hair and posted the video online. A simple search of "child-shaming" on Youtube shows more than thirty-thousand results. In the wake of this our reporter Orrin Singh found out more about public shaming and the damage it could do to young minds
North West government has been paying the salaries of 37 000 public servants who cannot be accounted for. This revelation comes as the Premier of North West Supra Mahumapelo was briefing the standing committee on public accounts in Mahikeng yesterday. Mahumapelo says this emerged during a process to verify government employee in their salary payment system. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Dr Lydia Sebego, who is the Director General for the North West, the provincial government for details.
It is still not clear whether the troubled Roodepoort Primary School on Gauteng's East Rand will reopen soon. An independent mediation task team has finalised and submitted its report with recommendations to the Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi, for consideration. The school has been in the spotlight with allegations of corruption and racism and was temporarily closed two weeks ago. Sakina speaks to the spokesperson for the Davidsonville Community Forum, Ronald Dyers
Durban has been named as the host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games. SASCOC CEO, Tubby Reddy, part of the bid presentation team, says it has been a tough process. The announcement was made in Auckland, New Zeeland by outgoing Commonwealth Games President Prince Tunku Imran of Malaysia
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela talks about Asian stocks, US markets feel a lot of volatility and SA shows trade deficit in July has increased
South Africa is being denied the opportunity to send its best team to the Rugby World Cup 2015 due to political interference. This is according to the Freedom Front Plus who is now appealing to the British government to take urgent note of alleged political interference in sport in the country. Freedom Front Plus' parliamentary spokesperson on sport, Advocate Anton Alberts, says this type of interference on a racial basis has led to international sport boycotts against South Africa in the past.
A startling allegations of securitisation fraud by the Big Four banks has been revealed. According to Banking Law Advisor's Advocate Douglas Shaw, banks have been deceiving home owners as if they are still the registered bond owners, when in fact they are not. This allows them to collect mortgage bond payments on behalf of the new owners and take judgment against defaulting borrowers, neither of which is legal where the bond is securitised. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Banking Law Advisor's Advocate Douglas Shaw
Family of the man who allegedly killed his wife with a live grenade and that of the deceased, shocked by incident at Amanzimtoti, south of Durban. These two families visited the home of the two where the crime took place. Qiniso Mbili reports
Market Analyst at 27Four investments Nadir Thokan looks ArcelorMittal South Africa is planning to shut two mills and is reviewing operations at its largest plant, the mining agreement signed between government labour and business and China Factory PMI Falls to 47.3
Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote of Nigeria is to invest in cement, power and coal mining in Zimbabwe. Dangote who was in Zimbabwe yesterday says his team will be in the country as early as next week for further exploration. The 58 year old multi billionaire is on an aggressive expansion drive across sub-saharan African. Last month, his company Dangote Group opened 450 million dollar cement plant in Zambia. Shingai Nyoka reports
Markets analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian currencies set for Biggest monthly decline in three years, Japan Stocks Fall, Extending Biggest Monthly Loss Since 2012 and SA's imposes tariffs in steel imports
The South African Communist Party has urged government to scale up its re-industrialisation efforts in order to spur economic growth. This is part of its resolutions taken at the end of its Central Executive meeting in Johannesburg. The two day meeting focussed mainly on the struggling economy and the weaker rand. SACP General Secretary Blade Nzimande says the economy needs to be industrialised with emphasis on labour intensive sectors. Ntebo Mokobo reports
Market Analyst at 27Four investments Nadir Thokan looks at the impact of the Chinese turmoil on the Federal Reserve, looks at Naspers and current and current account data is coming out of SA today.
North West University in Mahikeng, was a hive of political activities this past weekend. Both EFF Student Command and ANC Progressive Youth Alliance held election campaigns ahead of the much anticipated SRC elections to be held this morning. The campaign saw the country's political bigwigs attending the campaigns in a bid to woo students to vote for their respective organisations. Lucas Mothibedi reports
South African can breathe a sigh of relief in terms of load shedding. President Jacob Zuma officially opened one of six generating units at Medupi Power Station in Lephalale, Limpopo. The commercial operation of Unit 6 of the Medupi power station will add 800 megawatts to the country's strained electricity grid. For more on this we're now joined on the line by Eskom's spokesperson,Khulu Phasiwe
Eastern Cape Premier, Phumulo Masualle, has promised that his government will assist the affected families who lost their loved ones in two gruesome road accidents in the province this weekend. A total of 46 passengers have perished in two separate road accidents that happened at Cradock, where a taxi overturned killing nine people, as well as in Willowvale where a bus plunged into a cliff killing 36 passengers. Masualle joined the bereaved families of the 36 victims who died in the bus accident, during a prayer service at a local church in Willowvale. Makhaya Komisa reports
Parents who fail to act against children who are absent from school for no reason, should be arrested for irresponsible and reckless parenting. This is according to the Executive Chairperson of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Yershen Pillay. He wrote an article titled "Arrest parents of serial offenders" - which highlighted the importance of shared responsibility for the quality education of youth and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him
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Asia Stocks Climb With Commodities After China Settles Market
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Woolies results shoot the lights out in a tough economy
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China, China, China and the weeks wrap!
The Municipal Demarcation Board has concluded its resolutions for the determination and re-determination of certain municipal boundaries. 23 per cent of the 32 cases have been concluded. This follows a request by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Pravin Gordhan with an aim to make certain municipalities more sustainable and financially viable. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Jane Thupana, Chairperson of the Municipal Demarcation Board.
Constant criticism of the Judiciary and authority of the courts by the Executive undermines the country's justice system and erodes public confidence, this is according to former NPA boss, Vusi Pikoli. He made the comments at the ninth annual Helen Joseph Lecture on "An Independent Judiciary" at the University of Johannesburg. The lecture coincidentally fell on the same day Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng met with President Jacob Zuma on government's open criticisms of the country's courts. Noma Bolani reports.
Municipal Demarcation Board is sticking to it's guns regarding newly revised municipalities and wards boundaries. The board handed over the new boundaries to the Independent Electoral Commission in Pretoria. This is to allow IEC to prepare for next year's local government elections. The board's decision on new municipal boundaries has been met with fierce objections. Maluti Obuseng / Dineo Sekgarametso filed this report
President Jacob Zuma has committed his cabinet and government to respect the independence of the judiciary and to enforce court orders issued against the state. He was speaking after an unprecedented meeting with the judiciary at the Union Building last night. The judiciary requested the meeting a month ago to discuss what it called unfair attacks on the courts. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng reports.
Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu's, doctors are pleased with his progress in a Cape Town hospital. The Arch, as he is affectionately known, was hospitalised more than a week ago. Addressing a media briefing in Cape Town, his daughter, Reverend Mpho Tutu, said her father was halfway through his intravenous treatment. Berenice Moss reports
Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Jacob Mamabolo has conceded that the current process used by the department for housing applications and issuing of tittle deeds is not reliable and is also open to manipulation and corruption. Many people in Gauteng have complained that they've been allocated houses but their houses are occupied by other people. And in some instances people who recently registered for houses are given houses whilst those who've been on the waiting list for years still don't have access to houses. Tshepo Phagane reports
Government is considering the use of sea water for human consumption. This is aimed at alleviating the strain on the country's stretched water resources. The minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane made this annoucement at World Water conference in Stockholm Sweden. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the department of Water and Sanitation, Mlimandlela Ndamase
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Producer Price Inflation (PPI) for July was released yesterday and at 3.3% it's quite a bit lower than both the June reading of 3.7%, but also than what was expected. Surely this is good news for the economy and especially for the consumer?
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So I guess it is really that number of 12.2% increase for water and electricity that is of concern. Earlier in the week we spoke about the impact that the drought has on agricultural commodity prices and basic food. There have been calls for restrictions on the irrigation of golf courses. Do you think this could help?
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Please tell me that you have some good news for us to round off this momentous week. Is there anything we can look forward to as we head into the weekend?
Higher Education and Training concerned about situation at Stellenbosch University following the release of a 32 minutes documentary where black students recount incidents of racial prejudice within the university and the town. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo this morning Khaye Nkwanyana, spokesperson for the Department of Higher Education said, there is nothing wrong with dual education, but Afrikaans cannot be used to disadvantage student.
- China's Stocks Rise After Worst Five-Day Decline in Two Decades
- Japanese stocks jumped for a second day, heading for the biggest two-day rally since November
- Thursday Investment Theme: Bond Investing
Portfolio Committee on Public Works expressed satisfaction with the level of engagement and submissions received on the Expropriation Bill. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the portfolio committe on public works , Ben Martins
South Sudan's president Salva Kiir signed a peace and power sharing deal on Wednesday to end a 20-month civil war in the country. Kiir however told regional leaders, who were in Juba to witness the signing, that he had serious reservations. Kiir signed the deal a day after threats of United Nations sanctions. Rebel leader Dr. Riek Machar signed the accord last week in Ethiopia. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tom Wheeler, an Independent Commentator and Former Diplomat..
Several students were injured after the EFF and SASCO student representatives clashed. The students pelted each other with stones on the Tshwane University of Technology Pretoria West campus. The violence erupted while the Economic Freedom Fighter's leader, Julius Malema, addressed students, ahead of SRC elections tomorrow. TUT management condemned the violence. Maluti Obuseng reports
President Jacob Zuma will attempt to heal the rifts between the ANC government and the judiciary when the two arms of state meet today. The meeting was requested by the judiciary last month to discuss, what they called, unfair attacks on the courts. The unprecedented meeting has been described by analysts as a bold move. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng looks back at what has precipitated the much anticipated meeting....
South Sudan's president Salva Kiir signed a peace and power sharing deal on Wednesday to end a 20-month civil war in the country. Kiir however told regional leaders, who were in Juba to witness the signing, that he had serious reservations. Kiir signed the deal a day after threats of United Nations sanctions. Rebel leader Dr. Riek Machar signed the accord last week in Ethiopia. Sarah Kimani reports
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This week in stock markets has been one of the most volatile on record, and it's only Thursday morning! The US markets ended very strongly last night, and this morning Asian markets have followed suit. Does this mean that the worst is behind us now and that from here on it can only get better?
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This week we also had news out about our own economic growth, and the dreaded "R"-word, recession, has started to creep into conversations. What can we do to lift GDP and avoid a recession, and what can we learn from our peers in BRICS and even elsewhere in Africa?
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Unfortunately the Reserve Bank's mandate is to contain inflation, not boost economic growth, so there is still the expectation that they will increase the repo rate in the near future. What are the implications for the South African consumer who is already under such pressure?
The race is on for a new leadership of the ANC Youth League. The League will finally hold its national elective congress from the 4th to the 6th of September after numerous delays. The body has been under the administration of a national task team after it was disbanded by the ANC's National Executive in March 2013. This after its then-President Julius Malema was dismissed and a number of his executive disciplined for sowing divisions in the party's ranks. Several names have been touted to head the League, including former league leader Ronald Lamola, North West MEC Collen Maine, National Executive Committee member Pule Mabe and Tshwane league leader, Lesego Makhubela. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe spoke to Lamola as part of a build-up to the conference
President Jacob Zuma has officially opened the state-of-the-art Makgato Lewanika Mandela school in Mvezo in the Eastern Cape. The multi-million rand school has been established after the merger of Inkwenkwezi and Mvezo Junior Schools due low numbers. The school boasts modern buildings, a computer lab and up-to-date teaching equipment . Makhaya Komisa has more
Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe has unveiled a ten point plan aimed at reversing that country's economy crisis. President Mugabe's state of the nation address comes as almost 20 thousands workers have lost their jobs and the economy is expected to shrink even further. Shingai Nyoka reports
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is taking the University of the Witwatersrand to court to interdict this week's Student Representative Council elections. This after the university suspended seven EFF supporters following a scuffle during a pre-election debate. The two parties met yesterday to try iron out their differences on the matter. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairperson of the EFF, Advocate Dali Mpofu and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Wits University, Prof. Tawana Kupe.
- Asia Stocks Climb With U.S. Futures After $2.7 Trillion Wipe-out
- Biggest Day in Years for Currencies as Investors Flee Risk
- Highly priced equity markets continue to feel the pinch of the sell off
The Transport department says it will abide by the recommendations of Public Protector Thuli Madonsela into financial irregularities at the Passenger Rail Agency. Madonsela has urged Transport minister Dipuo Peters to take cognisance of damning findings against Prasa. Madonsela has found evidence of widespread impropriety in the awarding of tenders and urged steps against ousted CEO Lucky Montana. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Transport spokesperson Tiyani Rikhotso
The saga surrounding the illegal renditions of Zimbabweans by the HAWKS is far from over. Gauteng Hawks boss Major-General Shadrack Sibiya will be challenging his dismissal following an internal disciplinary hearing last week. The hearing found that Sibiya, in his capacity as Hawks boss, had failed to prevent the rendition of six Zimbabwean nationals in 2010. The matter has seen a number of high level casualties, including Hawks boss Anwa Dramat, who resigned with a three million rand handshake and Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) head Robert McBride who is on suspension. As Senior Political reporter Busi Chimombe reports, Sibiya is arguing he is being unfairly treated as he has been dismissed and Dramat received a golden handshake. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe has details
The Public Protector has named and shamed some of the companies and individuals implicated in the maladministration and alleged irregular awarding of tenders involving former CEO of Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa Lucky Montana. Some of the companies mentioned in the Public Protector's demning report include Siemens and Reakgona cleaning company. The report also mentions names of board members, staff and business people. Tshepo Mongoai and Morafe Tabane compiled this report
Former Prasa CEO Lucky Montana has described the Public Protector's report on irregularities at the Passenger Rail Agency as inaccurate. Montana, who resigned after reports of irregularities started to surface last month, has denied all allegations against him and says he will take take legal action...
The Treatment Action Campaign and the Sonke Gender Justice Network say the mechanism through which vulnerable members of society can hold large corporates to account for their failures, is through a class action. The organisations have brought an application before the High Court in Johannesburg to be admitted as friends of the court in a class action lawsuit against mining companies. The main case is being brought by former mine workers seeking compensation from gold mining companies after contracting silicosis due to prolonged exposure to dust particles while working in mines. Tshepo Phagane reports
- So yesterday was pretty grim as far as markets are concerned. What caused the broad-based sell-off and was there anything that did not fall in a heap?
- Are we over-reacting as far as China is concerned?
- Yesterday we spoke about the likelihood that the US Fed will increase interest rates in September and you said you thought they may have to hold off, considering what has been happening in global markets. But what about our own MPC - how do you think the current events will influence interest rate decisions by the SARB?
Security Experts have warned that Crafty hackers are gaining access to bank accounts and draining them in a tweaked version of the well-known Microsoft scam. The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (Sabric) has alerted SA banks that these scamsters are now targeting South Africans and called on people to keep their software up to date - and not to give anyone remote access to their computers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the South African Banking Risk Information Centre CEO, Kilyani Pillay...
- Chinese stocks fall the lowest since 2007 despite Government assistance
- Shinzo Abe still under pressure despite decent Japanese economic performance
- RSA rand continues to fall as the commodity market falls!
Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union, Popcru says it still defends National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega despite the commission of inquiry into Phiyega's fitness to hold office. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Popcru spokesperson, Richard Mamabolo.
Labour and business want government to reassess policies which they say, are leading to job losses in the steel industry. Representatives of the sector and government met this past weekend to discuss possible ways of avoiding major job cuts. The trade union NUMSA says at least 30-thousand workers in the steel industry face retrenchments in the next two months. Arcelor Mittal is considering closing its Vereeniging plant, while other major companies such as Evraz Highveld Steel in Mpumalanga and Scaw Metals intend retrenching thousands of workers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Numsa's general-secretary, Irvin Jim...
Names of some high profile individuals could be implicated in the Public Protector's Report to released today on the probe involving the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa. This is according to National Transport Movement, a union representing some of Prasa employees. The union has spent the past few years making submissions to the Public Protector to probe serious corrupt activities in the parastatal. Tshepo Mongoai and Morafe Tabane compile this report
The Community Development Foundation of South Africa and traditional leaders in Mount Frere, Eastern Cape, have embarked on an initiative aimed at mentoring young men who graduated from this winter's initiation season. Fundiswa Mhlekude reports
Trade and political relations between South Africa and Japan are to take centre stage when the two countries meet in the capital, Tokyo today. Pretoria's delegation, led by deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa including ministers and business people, is currently on an official visit aimed at enhancing existing trade and political relations between the two countries and also re-assure the Japanese that South Africa is open for business. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
A team of mediators put together to end disruptions at the Roodepoort primary school, west of Johannesburg, has reported back to the Gauteng Education Department. The school was shut down last week following protests by some parents demanding the removal of the principal and the deputy principal, accusing them of mismanagement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Reverend Gift Moerane,convener of the task team
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10 days ago on this program you told us that when the market falls like this, we should consider it in the same way as when there is a sale on at our favourite shop. And although it has bounced on some days, in general the decline continues. How should one deal with the emotions of a falling investment market?
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One aspect of the current rout in global markets that really hurt us and make us feel vulnerable as South Africans, is the depreciation of the rand. But we know that a weaker rand is not only negative for us. What advantages does the rand weakness hold for investors?
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What will trigger a reversal of the current trend in currency markets?
Markets analyst, Clive Ramathibela looks at;
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The Chinese market rout continues as poor data spares concern over the economy
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IMF , Germany and Eurozone will continue supporting Greek reform despite Tsipras resignation
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The weeks review in brief
Former President Thabo Mbeki faced many tough questions of local and international concern in Pretoria yesterday. Mbeki was interacting with students at Unisa's Thabo Mbeki Leadership Institute. In a question and answer session students quizzed the former President on a range of issues including relations with China, the International Criminal Court, land and establising a non-sexist society. Senior Political Reporter Busi Chimombe reports
The ANC has blamed its dwindling support in Coloured communities on lazy members who are not mobilising in these communities. In its discussion documents for the National General Council planned for October, the governing party has admitted that it is losing support in these communities to the Democratic Alliance. Its Secretary General Gwede Mantashe met representatives of the Coloured and the Khoi San people in Johannesburg last night. Presidential correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports
- Asian stocks fell and the dollar held declines against major peers as Federal Reserve timidity toward raising interest rates underscored global growth concerns
- China Edges Closer to IMF Seal of Approval With Yuan Policy Move
- A mixed bag of South African Results with the Rand still under pressure
- Thursday Investment Theme: Agriculture investing
The decision by National Prosecuting Authority Head Advocate Shaun Abrahams to withdraw the charges against Nomgcobo Jiba, could have a material bearing on cases being litigated. That's according to a public interest organisation, Freedom Under Law. It also wants to be furnished with the reasons for the withdrawal of the charges. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the chaiperson of Freedom Under Law Judge Johann Kriegler
- Brutal sell off in SA stocks persist. Take us through some of the big moves in equities yesterday?
- SA CPI and retail sales tick higher
- Fed FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) minutes sees some push rate hike expectations to later in the year
The task team which was appointed to find a lasting solution to the issues facing the closure of Roodepoort Primary school, say they have hope to find a solution within the next 48 hours. The schools routine has been disrupted for several weeks by violent protests over the appointment of its principal, Noma-themba Molefe, and her deputies. Chaos broke out since Monday at the School on Gauteng's West Rand, after separate groups of black and coloured parents clashed on the streets. Sashin Naidoo reports
Three women, a foster mother, a doctor and a psychologist, have petitioned the Constitutional Court, asking that an unborn fetus be granted the right to life. The Choice of Termination of Pregnancy Act makes abortions legal under certain conditions. But the act does not recognise the foetus' right to life. Senior Constitutional Court Reporter, Candice Nolan reports
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has decided to drop fraud and perjury charges against its own Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Nomgcobo Jiba. Jiba, whose trial was due to start today, has reportedly been promoted to a higher position. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson of the NPA, Luvuyo Mfaku.
- Asian stocks fell a fourth day as a deepening commodities selloff raised concern growth may be slowing in China
- Japan's export growth slowed in July, a sign that foreign demand is failing to provide much support to the world's third-biggest economy
- Booting up South Africa's creative economy! Innovation in the arts industry creating opportunities domestically and internationally!
- We finally know what happened to the SATAWU airline venture!!!
Gauteng Education MEC, Panyaza Lesufi, will today meet with a mediation team as well as community representatives in an effort to resolve the impasse at the Roodepoort Primary School. Calm was restored yesterday, after children arrived from their temporary school facility in Soweto. At least five people were injured during a protest at the school. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to SABC reporter Tshepo Phagane who is at Roodepoort Primary School.
The Democratic Alliance ‚ says it would ask the High Court to nullify Minister of Police Nathi Nhleko's report on the Nkandla upgrades. Sakina Kamwendo speaks DA MP Glynnis Breytenbach
South Africa has the saltiest fast foods. According to a survey carried out by World Action on Salt and Health (WASH) and the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) children are being fed alarmingly high amounts of salt by fast food chains. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deidre Lindeque, a registered Dietician with Nutripaeds...
- Emerging markets pressured as capital outflows mount
- Merkel to take Greek deal to German parliament
- Shoprite results good as eyes shift to today's retail sales and CPI data locally
UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon has added his voice to international pressure mounting of South Sudan's President Salva Kiir to sign a peace deal to end the almost two year old conflict in his country. Sudan government delegation led by Kiir has asked for a 15 day extension to review the agreement while his adversary former Vice President Riek Machar signed the document. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
The South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) has formally notified Rand Water of their intention to go on a strike. This follows several rounds of negotiations with the company which have yielded no positive results. SAMWU is asking for a 10 percent salary increase for the lowest paid workers and 12-percent for incentive bonuses. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAMWU's National Collective Bargaining Officer, Chumani Gqeke....
- Chinese stocks dropped from their highest level in three weeks on concern the rebound in equities has overshot prospects for earnings growth
- U.S. stocks rose, following last week's gain in the Standard & Poor's 500 Index, with homebuilders pacing the advance amid light volume before further clues from the Federal Reserve on the path for interest rates
- What is the trend behind the falling Oil prices and is it sustainable?
The Progressive Women's Movement of South Africa is unhappy about Pistorius parole during the women's month and will ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services not to approve the parole board's recommendation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Convener at the Progressive Women's Movement of South Africa, Mme Jacqui Mofokeng.
The ANC's National General Council is expected to focus its attention relentlessly on the state of the country's economy. This was revealed at the ruling party's launch of a number of discussion documents for its National General Council scheduled for the 9th to the 12th of October. The NGC is a mid-term review of the policies and implementation of decisions passed at the ANC's 2012 National Conference in Manguang. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC's head of policy Jeff Radebe...
Three nurses are accused of neglecting a pregnant woman at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in Johannesburg will be disciplined by the department of health. This comes after the death of an unborn baby at the hands of the nurses at the facility. It's alleged that the mother had been admitted at the hospital as a high risk patient, however she wasn't treated as such. Senior Health Journalist Thabile Mbhele reports
Fifteen people have been confirmed dead and five seriously injured in an accident involving a mini-bus and a train. The accident happened in Shaka's head near Ballito north of Durban last night. It is believed the drive of the taxi lost control and the taxi veered off the road and landed on the rail way track colliding with passing train. Vusi Makhosini reports
- Rand part of the Troubled Ten as it weakens further
- Eurozone trade surplus widens
- Brazilian president Rouseff faces further calls for impeachment as economy crumbles
Legal representatives of the Marikana tragedy victims have called the Farlam Commission report a disgrace and criticized government for being in denial. The legal team says they will also apply for a review of the Farlam commission of inquiry's report as they do not agree with the findings. For more we are joined on the line by one of the legal representatives of the Marikana victims, Advocate Dumisa Ntsebeza
Today is the final day for the South Sudan's government and rebels to reach a peace deal or face possible sanctions. Over the weekend . East African leaders were gathered in Ethiopian capital in an effort to convince South Sudan's warring sides to sign a peace deal. Diplomats have warned any failure to sign a peace deal could trigger serious consequences for the rival leaders. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Independent Analyst and former Ambassador Tom Wheeler.
Market Analyst and Economist Clive Ramathibela looks at the Asian Markets which, tracking an advance in U.S. equities, Japan’s Economy Contracts as Consumption, Investment Decline and South Africa finally wakes up to “Venture Capitalisation” as SME’s show strong growth potential
About a hundred residents have been left destitute following a fire that gutted about 50 shacks in Lwandle, Cape Town. Residents says they are not sure how the last night fire started. Many called on government to provide them with RDP houses. Thandiswa Mawu reports
President Jacob Zuma has arrived in the Botswana capital, Gaborone, ahead of the SADC leaders summit which will start this morning. Botswana President Ian Khama is set to become the next regional economic bloc leader when Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe vacates the position tomorrow. Regional economic integration and energy security including peace and security will be the main issues that the two-day summit will discuss. Tsepo Ikaneng reports from Gaborone, Botswana
Mohammed Nalla, Strategic Research at Nedbank Capital talks; China remains a key focal point for emerging markets but we are seeing some yuan stability now, rand remains on the backfoot as EM currencies stay pressured with Malaysia quite hard hit and Oil developments remains to the downside for now
The families, whose loved ones were killed in Marikana three years ago, are still struggling to come to terms with the events of that fateful day. Forty-four people were killed in the week between the 12th and the 16th of August in 2012. The third commemoration was held at the koppie, where 34 mineworkers were killed. Itumeleng Kgajane compiled this report.
Guinea-Bissau's President Jose Mario Vaz has dismissed the government following weeks of tension with Prime Minister Domingos Pereira. The two are said to be disagreeing about many issues including the use of aid money and the return of a former army chief of staff to Guinea-Bissau. sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior research fellow at the Institute for Security Studies in South Africa David Zounmenou...
There was palpable anger late yesterday afternoon in Boksburg on the East Rand among members of the AMCU and the National Union of Mineworkers after the Chamber of Mines remained entrenched in its final offer of one thousand rands on the last day of independent mediation. This led to the total collapse of the talks and means that the Chamber's orginal offer of up to seven hundred and fifty rands for entry level employees is back on the table. Parties will now have to go to the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) for the start of the official thirty days mediation. Frank Nxumalo reports
Opposition parties in parliament have called on government to provide financial compensation for the families of the mine workers who died in Marikana in 2012. During the debate on the report by the Farlam Commission of Inquiry, opposition MPS also called for certain government ministers to be brought to book for their role in the killings. The parties argue that despite the findings of the report, accountability and political responsibility cannot be ignored. Our Parliamentary Reporter Abongwe Kobokana filed this report
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Yesterday you told us that there was a sale on at the JSE (so to speak), and to move quickly if we wanted to snap up some bargains. And it seems that those who got in on the action made some good gains on the day. But the JSE also released their interim results yesterday. Talk us through some of the notable issues.
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Unfortunately the news from Glencore, in the form of their half year production results, were not nearly as impressive. The share price has lost two-thirds of its value since listing on the JSE. Was there anything in this update that would explain why?
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Private education group Curro was in the news for mostly the wrong reasons in recent weeks. Was there any sign of a negative impact - either from their failed bid to take over AdvTech, or from the racism allegations at their Roodeplaat school - in their interim results released yesterday?
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) says it has begun a major clean-up campaign to put its house in order. This includes a broad skills and qualifications audit across the entire company. Chairperson of the Prasa board, Popo Molefe, says this follows a report by the Auditor General which highlighted maladministration of funds as one of many other problems facing the agency. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the Prasa board, Popo Molefe…
The Democratic Alliance has refuted claims by Sanral that their opposition to the e-tolling project in the province is a political strategy to disrupt the process. The City of Cape Town this week approached the Cape Town High Court to have Sanral's decision to toll sections of the N1 and N2 set aside. The DA's provincial deputy leader Bonginkosi Madikizela says they will be picketing outside the court building in opposition to the proposed e-toll project.
- Asian currencies stabilized after the biggest two-day selloff in four years as the yuan's tumble eased. Emerging-market stocks rose after record earnings at Tencent Holdings Ltd. boosted technology companies
- China's central bank said it will keep the yuan stable at a reasonable, equilibrium level as the currency fell for a third day after Tuesday's devaluation
- Google Inc. continues to rise following their reorganizing into a holding company called Alphabet Inc!
- Thursday Investment Theme : One dimensional investing is killing the African Economy!
Government has informed education authorities that Mandarin will be taught in schools from January. Sakina kamwendo spoke to Elijah Mhlanga at the Department of Basic Education
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) says it has begun a major clean-up campaign to put its house in order. This includes a broad skills and qualifications audit across the entire company. Chairperson of the Prasa board, Popo Molefe, says this follows a report by the Auditor General which highlighted maladministration of funds as one of many other problems facing the agency. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the Prasa board, Popo Molefe…
- Oil has fallen faster than the rand has depreciated
- Gold and gold shares bounced strongly
- The JSE is on sale
Provincial Police commissioners have been grilled by the Parliament's Police committee and forced to apologise, after they pledged their support to the National Police Commissioner in a media statement. Their statement, two weeks ago, followed a recommendation by the Farlam Commission on Marikana that there should be an inquiry into Phiyega's fitness for office. The committee hauled them over the calls, saying they overstepped to the political scene. Zalene Merrington reports
Communications Minister Faith Muthambi says the country is ready for digital migration and good progress has been made so far. Muthambi was giving a status report to parliamentarians on the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) project. This is despite criticism about financing to carry out the project as well as the analogue switch-off deadline. The international deadline for migration to DTT was 17 June this year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Solly Mokoetle, Head of digital terrestrial television at the Department of Communications.
- Why it was a positive move for the President to do the unprecedented move and talk " Economy " !!
- China's currency tumbled for a second day, sending Asian stocks and commodities lower amid concern that financial-market volatility in the world's second-largest economy will curb global growth
- Google Inc. rose after reorganizing into a holding company called Alphabet Inc.
The Khoisan community have formed their own chamber of commerce and industry. Ruben Richards, first president of the chamber says this is a significant moment in the life of the indigenous people of South Africa because up until now the Khoisan's contribution to the country's economy had not been recognised.
Families of the 37 Marikana mine workers killed in 2012 have filed civil claims against the minister of police in the High Court in Pretoria. The Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa says the majority of the deceased workers were the sole breadwinners of their families and supported large extended families on their meagre income. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kathleen Hardy, Attorney at The Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa.
Sterkspruit Civic Association in the small town of Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape says it's no longer demanding a stand-alone municipality but has decided to contest next year's local government election in the Senqu Local Municipality. Reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
The country's manufacturing production fell by 0.4 % year-on-year in June due to sharp declines in the production of basic metals and chemicals. In May, the sector recorded a 1.6 percent revised contraction. According to Statistics South Africa on a month-on-month basis, factory output was up 0.9 %. Tshepo Mongoai reports.
- So we started the local week yesterday with news that China had devalued its currency by the most in more than 20 years. How did markets react to this surprise move?
- For the last two weeks there has been this growing spat between Eskom and Glencore, owner of Optimum Coal. What is this all about?
- Another topic you and I seem unable to avoid is that of Greece. Yesterday we got news that a Greek bailout deal has been put on the table. Can Europe now finally move on from the Greek Tragedy?
Continued disruption of schooling yesterday at the Roodepoort Primary School on the West Rand may force the Education MEC to close down the school for safety reasons. On Monday, Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi warned that he will close the school if there are further disruptions this week. The school has seen two petrol bombing incidents - one involved the principal's car last week. At least 15 teachers stopped going to school last week after parents complained about the appointment of a principal and her deputy, saying they were not properly appointed. Wisani Makhubele repors
The City of Cape Town is approaching the Western Cape High Court * today to have Sanral's decision to toll sections of the N1 and N2 set aside. The Democratic Alliance provincial deputy leader, Bonginkosi Madikizela, says they will be picketing outside the court building in opposition to the proposed e toll project. .
- Asian stocks opened stronger as commodity prices rebound
- Chinese stocks rally as the PBOC slashes Yuan reference rate by 1.9%
- Warren Buffet signs into a Chinese airline and Alibaba strengthens its electronics network
Five children have died in a shack fire in Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, in the early hours of Monday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MEC of Human Settlements , Jacob Mamabolo
Relatives and colleagues of 15 workers, who were burned to death at the Sasol Secunda plant in 1997, can finally find closure in what happened to their loved ones. This follows a ruling by the Gauteng High Court on Friday that the ministry of labour must avail the report about the investigations into the catastrophe. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Community Legal Representative, Richard Spoor
The DA wants the NPA boss Shaun Abrahams to appear before the Portfolio Committee of Justice and Correctional Services if alleged plans to drop fraud and perjury charges against his deputy Advocate Nomgcobo Jiba goes ahead. This follows weekend media reports that Abrahams is set to withdraw charges against Jiba, and to also lay criminal charges against Ivan Pillay, Anwa Dramat and prosecutor Gerrie Nel. To unpack this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political analyst , Somadoda Fikeni
• What has happened in the world whilst we were celebrating phenomenal women (like you and me ) over the long weekend? Can you give the listeners who have been away for a few days a quick update? • So the week started off with a bit of struggle for everyone, except China, it seems, and that pushed the US markets higher last night. What is the latest news from the world’s 2nd largest economy? • Last week we saw the Rand reach levels last seen almost 14 years ago, so I guess that would lend further support for our commodity stocks?
Gauteng education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has released an audit report into corruption allegations at Glenvista High School in Johannesburg. The report has revealed what he has called the worst corruption in a school he has ever come across. Speaking at a press conference he said he was stunned by the findings. He has now vowed to to file criminal and civil charges againsts the former principal , chairperson of the school governing body and former staff members of Glenvista High School
Lesotho nationals in South Africa continue to call for the abolishment of borders between their country and South Africa. According to the Free Movement of Basotho, there is a need for the incorporation of their country into South Africa, an ideology they are negotiating with their government. They are also calling for the implementation of the SADC free trade area and SADC free movement treaty. Their movement has also been established in all the nine provinces, by mostly domestic workers, mine workers and other labourers who have spent a considerable time in South Africa. Bafedile Moerane compiled this report....
Zimbabwe's main opposition Movement for Democratic Change party says the country's constitution remains unimplemented, despite its overwhelming endorsement by millions of the people during the 2013 referendum. In a statement to mark today [Monday] national Heroes day commemorations, the MDC said the country;s failure to change the laws to support the charter has denied ordinary Zimbabweans their full rights. The country is marking Heroes day a public holiday to remember guerillas killed in the 1970s liberation war against white minority rule. Shingai Nyoka reports...
The congregation of the End Times Disciples Ministry in Soshanguve,north of Pretoria say they will continue with church services. This comes after The EFF in Gauteng visited the tent church and set it alight. The EFF in Gauteng say they are outraged by the behaviour of the church leaders. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF's spokesperson , Mbuyiseni Ndlozi ...
A Gift of the Givers volunteer who was caught in the shootout at a Mali hotel on Friday, has contacted the foundation's director Dr Imitiaz Sooliman to inform of his survival and that he and another South African have been moved to a hotel in the capital Bamako and that they are under security protection. He has described the experience as terrible, frightening and traumatising'. Meanwhile, the Department of International Relations says the South African embassy in Mali are assisting with the repatriation arrangements for Roelof Janse van Rensburg, who was killed when militants stormed the Byblos Hotel in the town of Servare and Malian forces later recaptured the town. Sakina Kamwendo spoke Gift of the Givers' Director, Dr Imitiaz Sooliman...
Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema says women are not yet liberated as they are still excluded from contributing meaningfully to the economy. He says this is as a result of them being denied proper access to education and employment. Malema was speaking at an EFF Women's rally in at thr Dr JS Moroka hall in Siyabuswa in Mpumalanga. Maluti Obuseng compiled this report...
President Jacob Zuma has counted the country's successes in empowering women but says focus should now be on ensuring they participate fully in the economy. He was speaking at the national Women's Day celebrations at Sasolburg in the Free State. The event was also attended by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and the newly elected ANC Women's League President Bathabile Dlamini. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo was there and filed this report...
- Asian stocks headed for a third weekly loss and bond risk rose amid concern a U.S. payrolls report will reinforce prospects the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates
- Australia's central bank indicated the jobless rate has peaked as signs mount the economy is improving, even as it pushed back forecasts of a growth upswing by a year
- Emerging market central bankers are getting nervous about their plunging currencies
ANC Women's League members appear to be divided about who should serve as the League's next president. During their 12th national elective conference in Pretoria, two groups have emerged - one supporting the continued presidency of Angie Motshekga for another term, and the other throwing its weight behind Social Development Minister, Bathabile Dlamini. To unpack this, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst, Sanusha Naidoo.
President Jacob Zuma has called for unity within the ANC women's league. This as the league prepares itself for one of the most hotly contested leadership race later today. It's understood that Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini is contesting current president Angie Motshekga for the position. Opening the conference yesterday, delegates sang songs about their preferred candidate, a move which has been described by some as divisive. Busi Chimombe reports
- U.S. Jobs numbers coming out today
- Mondi interim results released yesterday
- Ascendis bid for Spanish company Farmalider
President Jacob Zuma has once again found himself in a middle of a political storm regarding upgrades of his home in Nkandla, KwaZulu Natal. The EFF was true to its word that it would insist that the President should say when he will pay back the money for non security upgrades as instructed by the Public Protector. Joseph Mosia reports...
On the Forum@8 we ask, why are we losing the fight against drug and substance abuse? Our guest, Operations Director for the South African Depression & Anxiety Group, SADAG, Cassey Chambers, Chief Director responsible substance abuse at the dept of Social Development Siza Magangwe and Cindy Le Grange, Editor in Chief of Addicts Magazine and living with family members that were addicts.
- Asian stocks rose, following a rebound in global shares, amid optimism over the American economy
- Japanese stocks advanced, sending the Topix toward an eight-year high, as a weaker yen boosted earnings prospects
- Thursday Investment Theme: Fixed Income Funds
The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Police has condemned the support shown by the Board of Commissioners of the Police towards their boss, National Commissioner Riah Phiyega. The Board of Commissioners, which consists of nine provincial police commissioners, issued a statement saying they are concerned about the unfair and negative attitudes towards Phiyega. The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Francois Beukman, says the statement is not appropriate and has called on the commissioners to appear before the committee to explain themselves.
South Africa is heading for a major crisis as a result of a lack of nuanced and mature strategic leadership. This is according to the Vice-Chancellor of Wits University and political analyst, Professor Adam Habib He says the country is facing a moment of reckoning, and the political pact of 1994 is slowly beginning to unravel.
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has appointed seasoned corporate executive Sizwe Nxasana as chairperson of the troubled National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Nxasana will have the task of trying to resolve issues of alleged corruption and financial mismanagement at the scheme. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande...
In August 1945, US planes dropped two atomic bombs - one on Hiroshima, and the other on Nagasaki three days later. It was the first and only time that nuclear weapons have been used in history. Tens of thousands of people lost their lives as a direct result of the bombings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Japanese ambassador to South Africa Shigeyuki Hiroki
- MTN interim results
- Standard bank PMI data that came out yesterday
- Ascendis health bid for Spanish pharmaceutical company Farmalider
Job losses at the country's mines took the centre stage during a debate on transformation of the mining industry in the National Assembly. While political parties were not in agreement about solutions, there was broad agreement that the decline in commodity prices was largely to blame for the crisis. Joseph Mosia reports
The Minister of Mineral Resources Ngoako Ramatlhodi is said to have instructed Glencore to suspend its Optimum coal mine operations as it did not comply with legal requirements in its retrenchment process. Last month, Glencore announced that it would shut part of the Optimum mine and cut 380 jobs due to lower coal prices. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Minister's Special Advisor, Advocate Mahlodi Muofhe.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says he will not rest until all schools in the province are open to all races. Lesufi says he's prepared to take the matter to the Constitutional Court. He was responding to questions from opposition parties in the Gauteng Legislature. Tshepo Phagane
Kenya is carrying out a polio vaccination campaign targeting eight Million children amid concerns from the Catholic Church that the vaccines being used may cause infertility. While the country's ministry's of health says the vaccines are provided by the World Health Organisation and met all standards the church through it's association of doctors says independent tests show the vaccines contain traces of estradiol, form of estrogen, a female sex hormone. Sarah Kimani reports
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts - SCOPA - in the North West says punitive action will be taken against high ranking officials of the North West government, including the MECs, who were involved in the issuing of a controversial tender amounting to 15-million rands. This is in relation to the monies paid to a law firm, that was helping out with the disciplinary hearings of two officials. The Public Protector has already investigated the matter and found that laws were flouted in procuring the services of the law firm. SCOPA has summoned the Premier, Supra Mahumapelo, to explain why, after two years, the government has still not implemented the Public Protector's recommendations. Lucas Mothibedi reports
The High Court sitting in Nelspruit in Mpumalanga has found the owner of an initiation school, Jabulani Mlombo, guilty of seventeen rape and three sexual assault charges. Mlombo and his wife, Sister Khoza are accused of assaulting and raping 21 girls who were attending their initiation school at Masoyi near Hazyview in 2012. The two were charged with 49 counts of rape and assault. Khoza was found guilty on three counts of assault. Mthobisi Mkhaliphi reports...
The Executive Secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, Lawson Naidoo, analyses the Public protector and Nkandla ad hoc committee saga
The office of the ANC CHIEF WHIP issued a statement responding to the Public Protector's criticism against the parliamentary AD HOC Committee. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC Ad Hoc Committee member, Mmamoloko Kubayi....
Public Protector Advocate Thuli Madonsela says the Speaker of the National Assembly Baleka Mbete is duty bound in terms of the Constitution to allow her to shed light on Police Minister Ntahi Nhleko's report before the Parliamentary Ad-hoc Committee on Nkandla. This comes after the ANC voted against calling her before the Nkandla ad-hoc committee on security upgrades at President Jacob Zuma's Nkandla residence. A visibly frustrated Madonsela addressed the National Assembly via the media yesterday . Presidential correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has morePublic Protector Advocate Thuli Madonsela says the Speaker of the National Assembly Baleka Mbete is duty bound in terms of the Constitution to allow her to shed light on Police Minister Ntahi Nhleko's report before the Parliamentary Ad-hoc Committee on Nkandla. This comes after the ANC voted against calling her before the Nkandla ad-hoc committee on security upgrades at President Jacob Zuma's Nkandla residence. A visibly frustrated Madonsela addressed the National Assembly via the media. Presidential correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more
Load shedding is just as frustrating for babies as it is for adults, businesses and the economy. Babies have often missed their meals as they cannot get their formula milk or expressed breast milk when the power goes off. South Africa has been experiencing load shedding since the beginning of the year. Senior health journalist Thabile Mbhele reports
South Africa faces the triple challenge of poverty, inequality and unemployment. This is according to a report by global aid and development charity organisation Oxfam. The report says the future of South Africa depends on the country's ability to end social deprivation and manage social stress. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Nokutula Mhene, Oxfam's Economic Justice Campaigns Advisor...
- Lets talk about Personal consumption data that came out of the U.S.
- Ascendis health bid for Spanish pharmaceutical company Farmalider
- Eurozone PPI coming out today
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at; 1. Asian Stocks Fall on China Growth Concerns as Oil Extends Drop
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India’s Snapdeal Said to Draw $500 Million From Alibaba
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Market Manipulation Goes Global, Says Steven Roach former Chairman of Morgan Stanley
While the National Police Commissioner is faced with justifying to President Jacob Zuma why she should keep her position following a probe into her fitness to hold office, the country's police officers are being shot and killed frequently in the line of duty. So far 53 police officers have been killed since January. This morning we speak to police spokesperson, Vishnu Naidoo, regarding possible intervention
EFF leader Julius Malema's fraud and corruption trial is set to begin in Polokwane today. The case relates to a 52 million rand tender awarded to On-Point Engineering in 2009. Malema's Ratanang Trust is alleged to have fraudulently benefited from the tender. The company was co-owned by Malema and his business associates and now co-accused - Lesiba Gwangwa and Kagiso Dichabe. The company allegedly misrepresented itself by claiming to have nine years experience, while it had actually been formed two months prior to the advertising and awarding of the tender. Jabulani Baloi reports
Association of Mine Workers and Construction Union, AMCU,'s members have rejected the wage offer by their employers during a mass meeting held at Sibanye Beatrix sport ground at Theunissen, in the Free State. The workers included union members from Free State, Gauteng and North West. AMCU, NUM and Solidarity have been in negotiations with the Chamber of Mines since May this year. The Chamber of Mines are representing gold producers Anglo Gold Ashanti, Evander Gold mine, Harmony and Sibanye gold in the three provinces. Maryna van Wyk reports
Market Analyst at 27 Four Investments Nadir Thokan looks at the Global manufacturing PMI data coming out today and AMCU's rejection of the latest wage offer in the gold sector.
The Minister of Transport, Dipuo Peters has asked the Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu to to probe alleged financial mismanagement at the Passenger Rail Agency of SA. The request came amid alleged violations of the Public Finance Management Act and other related statutes regarding contracts and payments to service providers. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Spokesperson for the Minister of Transport, Tinyani Rikhotso.
National Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega, has until today to write to President Jacob Zuma, and explain her fitness for office following the recommendation made the Marikana Commission. The question however is who will replace her if she is dismissed, and will it be another politician, or is it perhaps time that a career police officer takes up the mantle, seeing that all three political appointments seemingly didn't live up to the job. Jacques Steenkamp reports..
After a vote on Thursday in the National Assembly, Parliament has adopted revised rules, with immediate effect, dealing with disruptions in the House. The proposed rules will see unruly MPs removed from the precinct by the Parliamentary Protection Services if they refuse to leave the Chamber after being instructed to do so. The first report of the Rules Committee of the National Assembly was tabled in the House yesterday. Meanwhile, Parliament has put the head and deputy head of the Parliamentary Protection Services on precautionary suspension. Esley Philander reports.
Parliament's ad hoc committee on Nkandla has concluded that it will not call any other witnesses to appear before it. The committee was established to look into the report by the Police minister, Nathi Nhleko, on how much money President Jacob Zuma should repay for non security upgrades. Nhleko and Public Works minister, Thulas Nxesi, were called to explain their reports to the committee yesterday. Opposition parties called for other role players, and in particular the Public Protector, to be called. Zalene Merrington reports...
The South African gold producers have offered a wage increase of up to 17 percent to unions. This is their final offer, which they believe is generous and above inflation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Charmane Russell, Spokesperson for the Gold Producers and General Secretary, David Sipunzi
The former CEO of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, Prasa, has laid criminal charges of fraud against five people who he believes cost the company millions of rand. Lucky Montana yesterday addressed the media on the steps of the Hillbrow Police Station after laying the charges. One of the five people he laid charges against is the current Chairman of Prasa, Popo Molefe
- U.S. GDP numbers a little softer but inflation ticks up pushing the dollar to its strongest gain since January
- SA PPI numbers printed slightly below expectations
- Gold set to end weakest month in 2 years as dollar weighs on commodities
DA leader Mmusi maimane says it would be unwise to dismiss the fact that ministers Nathi Nhleko and Thulas Nxesi are appointed by the president, serve and defend him as well. Maimane made his remarks after police minister Nathi Nhleko and Public Works minister Thulas Nxesi addressed the Ad hoc Committee in Parliament regarding the upgrades at president Jacob Zuma's Nkandla residence. Maimane says the Public Protector must be allowed to come and address the Ad hoc Committee because he believes her perceptive would focus rather on defending the constitution ...
Certain employees of the Gauteng legislature are allegedly involved in corruption, fraud, malpractice and nepotism. The allegations are contained in an anonymous letter sent to the office of the speaker. SABC News is in possession of the letter. It alleges that legislature employees prefer certain companies during procurement and that some staff have been promoted without following proper procedures. The letter also claims that some jobs are being sold for five thousand rand.
Durban High Court Judge Achmat Jappie has called on leaders of the two factions in the Nazareth Baptist Church to calm their followers. This follows clashes between faction members outside court earlier this week. Police used rubber bullets and teargas to disperse the congregants. At least two people were injured and property was damaged during one of the clashes. The Church's leadership tussle began after the death of late leader Vimbeni Shembe. Vimbeni's son, Mduduzi and his cousin Vela are fighting over the leadership. Sbongakonke Mbatha compiled this report.....
A police officer has given damning evidence against his colleagues who are on trial for the death of Mozambican taxi driver, Mido Macia. Warrant officer Mpumzi Ngamlana told the High Court in Pretoria that Macia was brought into the police holding cells on the 23rd of February 2013, with no trousers and had suffered head injuries. Hours later, he was certified dead by the paramedics. Video footage showing Macia being dragged at the back of a police van hours before his arrest went viral on the internet. Nine former police officers are on trial for the death of the 27-year-old taxi driver. Phumzile Mlangeni reports.
- Asian stocks rose a second day, taking their lead from the U.S
- These Economic Reports Will Determine When the Fed Will Raise Rates
- Facebook results show why they are better than Twitter as they beat estimates in earnings and Samsung misses estimates
- Thursday investment theme: African Property Market
Tens of thousands of South Africans looking for employment have criminal records, and these numbers are increasing. That's according to statistics by a recruitment agency called Employers Mutual Protection Services, that deals with background screening and criminal checks among other things. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the CEO of Employers Mutual Protection Services, Kirsten Halcrow
The Department of Trade and Industry is currently drafting new regulations to curb alcohol abuse in the country. The department is considering tightening up on alcohol manufacturers, distributors, advertisers and sponsors as well as raising the legal drinking age from 18 to 21 years. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director General at DTI Zodwa Ntuli...
- SA unemployment data surprises market
- U.S. Federal Reserve FOMC last night indicates still on track for a hike
- Eyes on some global and domestic data releases today , U.S. GDP , SA budget and PPI
Parliament's Rules Committee has adopted interim rules on how to deal with disruptions in the National Assembly. These will be presented to the House for approval on Thursday. This follows recommendations by the sub-Rules Committee that members who disrupt the proceedings of the National Assembly would be physically removed if they did not abide by the instructions of the presiding officer. Zalene Merrington reports...
A climate of terror prevails in Mitchells Plain on the Cape Flats because of ongoing gang-related killings. This follows the recent death of an alleged leader of the Hard Livings gang. Five more people have been killed in the past week and at least three others wounded. Members of the Community Policing Forum in the area are gravely concerned at the simmering gang war. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CPF Cluster Chairperson Hanif Loonat and mayoral committee member for safety and security in the City of Cape Town, JP Smith...
Schools in Port Elizabeth's northern areas are expected to re-open this morning after two days of riots. The schools were shut down by angry parents over teacher shortages on Monday. A protest turned violent with police using rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. Eastern Cape Education MEC, Mandla Makupula, has appealed to the schools to submit employment documents to speed up the process. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a parent, Valerie Sendrick
- Dollar softens on weak data ahead of FOMC today. Helps rand gain a little
- Some company results out yesterday from Mondi and MTN. Take us through the key points
- Eyes on SA employment data today
The city of Durban turned into a war zone following yet another clash between the members of the Nazareth Baptist Church who are embroiled in a bitter leadership tussle. Police struggled to disperse a crowd of over 300 congregants using rubber bullets and tear gas. Yesterday, at least two people were injured following clashes outside the Durban High Court where the matter of the church's rightful leader is being heard. Qiniso Mbili was in court and compiled this report
Tension is running high as family members and the legal team of murder accused, Christopher Panayiotou, await the outcome of his second bail attempt. After bail was denied in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court, they opted to appeal in the Grahamstown High Court. Judge Glen Goosen reserved judgement last week, and Panayiotou will know on Tuesday if he will have to remain behind bars or not. He is accused of masterminding the death of his wife, Jayde. Veronica Fourie reports
The Durban High Court has been forced to adjourn the Shembe leadership case following yet another scuffle that broke out between two factions of the charismatic church. The confrontation happened after Boy Qwabe, who was supposed to testify today, was denied entrance to court. The scuffle left at least two people injured. Lawyer of Mduduzi Shembe Rajesh Choundree, tried to calm the angry crowd...
The Eastern Cape Education MEC, Mandla Makupula is this morning going to Port Elizabeth to meet parents as schools remain closed in the northern areas of the city. Parents went on a violent protest following claims that several schools in the region might be closed due to a teacher shortage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MEC Mandla Makupula....
- Asian Stocks Fall as China Rout Triggers Drop in Global Equities
- Fiat Chrysler's Record Fine Shows Trust Eroding in Carmakers
- Private equity on the African continent still struggling to attract funds
The South African Post Office says workers who did not receive their July salaries have now been paid. Many of the parastatal's employees learnt last week that payday would come late this month. For more Sakina kamwendo spoke to SAPO acting CEO Mlungisi Mathonsi
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) says it is seeking legal advice after it received a letter of resignation from suspended Head of Engineering Daniel Mthimkhulu. A week ago, Mthimkulu was suspended with immediate effect following reports that he was not officially registered with the profession's statutory body. The agency's Chief Executive Officer Lucky Montana was removed from his position. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prasa's spokesperson Sipho Sithole…
Team MTN-Qhubeka celebrates their fifth place victory at the Tour de France cycling challenge as debut entrants. The team finished off a memorable race in fifth place overall out of 22 teams. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to MTN Qhubeka's team principal, Douglas Ryder…
- China stocks extend biggest rout in 8 years
- Oil market glut pushes prices lower
- Hulamin and Group five updates yesterday shed light on tough busieness environment
National Union of mineworkers, NUM, says it is shocked by Lonmin's plans to close some of its shafts. This will result to 6 000 jobs losses in the mining industry. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to NUM's Chief Negotiator at Lonmin, Erick Gcilitshana.
Our market analyst Clive Ramathibela talks about: Asian stocks fell, following the worst week for global equities this year, Oil bulls flee at fastest pace in three years as Glut expands and Nestle changes India chief amid row over Maggi noodle quality
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) says Hepatitis infections are threatening safe blood supply. However the national blood service says this preventable. The SANBS is joining World Hepatitis Alliance partners in raising awareness of the disease on this year's World hepatitis Day on Tuesday. SANBS's Vanessa Raju spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
As the number of people waiting for houses in the Western Cape edges close to half a million, desperate individuals and families have erected structures in some of the most unlikely places to live - cemeteries around Cape Town. While the City of Cape Town cannot quantify exactly how widespread the phenomenon is, it says affected cemetries include Maitland, Durbanville and Groote Schuur. Destitute people who've found shelter in these sites say while it's not the ideal place to build a life, it's the only option they have. Sisanda Nkoala tells us more
The Nkandla Adhoc Committee resumes in Parliament this week to continue with deliberations following the site visit to the President Jacob Zuma's private homestead. And the Public Protector maintains that she is willing to appear before the Adhoc Committees if she is invited. The committee was established to consider Police minister Nathi Nhleko report which found that the president was not liable to pay back any money used on what Madonsela found to be non-security upgrades in her report. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent report
The National Union of mineworkers (NUM) says it is shocked by Lonmin's plans to close some of its shafts. This will result in 6 000 jobs losses in the mining industry. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM's Chief Negotiator at Lonmin, Erick Gcilitshana
Market update with Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank: the rand plummets to its weakest levels against dollar late on Friday, Global risk off trade continues as US equities soften and Chinese data weakens continuing risk off trade
Depending on where you are, we all have been a victim of poor cell phone reception at some point or another, some of us more than others. General Manager of Policy & Research from ICASA, Pieter Grootes...
Health minister, Aaron Motsoaledi has given the green light on proposed amendments to the Medical Schemes Act. The amendments mainly focus on the Prescribed Minimum Benefits and the way they are paid. If and when the amendment is passed in Parliament, it will mean that healthcare providers will subscribe to a regulated tariff and members will receive uninterrupted treatment and care. Medical Scheme, SAMWUMED, Principal officer, Neil Nair...Deputy Director General at the department of health, Dr Anbar Pillay and attorney at Section 27, Umunyana Rugege...
Government and the private sector must start employing ex-offenders in order to give them a second chance. Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Thabang Makwetla, opened the ex-offender conference in Pretoria, saying ex-offenders must be helped to become economically viable. The conference is focused on developing a South African Roadmap about the role of former inmates within broader society. Manelisi Wolela, spokesperson for the department of justice and correctional services, President of an organisation called Fear Free Life, Collin Khumalo and Dr Saths Cooper, psychologist, and president of the Pan African Psychology Union....
President Jacob Zuma called in to SAfm to commend legendary South African musician PJ powers for her contribution in the struggle against apartheid particularly because she was white and give AM Live a thumbs up for talking about nation building.
NUMSA has decided to form a new federation after its allies within COSATU suffered massive defeats at the federation's Special National Congress held last week. We speak to Numsa's Deputy General Secretary, Karl Cloet
ANC’s member of parliament Mmamoloko Kubayi says the executive has to account for upgrades at president Jacob Zuma's private home at Nkandla. Ms Kubayi who is part of parliament's Ad Hoc Committee on Nkandla was speaking to Sakina Kamwendo during the Forum@8 on SAfm this morning
Employed South Africans have a lower take home-salary than a year ago. According to the latest BankservAfrica Disposable Salary Index (BDSI), the average disposable salary is growing at only 1 percent above inflation. To explain more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief economist at economists.co.za, Mike Schussler
- Asian Stocks Rise as Japan Rally Counters Drop in Mining Shares
- Uber Won New York Fight, but Remains a Flashpoint in the Inequality Debate
- Old Mutual, PIC selling out of Lewis stores following the credit conspiracy
- Thursday investment theme: Anchor Capital
It's been 3 years and 8 months since South African Stephen McGowan was kidnapped by militants in Mali. Now the humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers says it's trying to help negotiate his release. The organisation's Imtiaz Sooliman says they've sent a negotiator to Mali in an attempt to make contact with McGowan's kidnappers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairman and founder of Gift of The Givers, Imtiaz Sooliman
Global mining company Glencore has announced that its subsidiary, Optimum Coal Mines, is going ahead with the closure of some of its operations. This will see 380 families left without an income. The National Union of Mineworkers said earlier it would to consult with its lawyers to fight the retrenchments. For a reaction Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy General Secretary of NUM, William Mabapa
Security upgrades at President Jacob Zuma's homestead in Nkandla, in northern KwaZulu-Natal are not worth the more than 200-million rand of taxpayers' money spent on them. That's according to the Chairpreson of the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee on Nkandla, Cedric Frolick. The Committee conducted an in loco inspection of the upgrades to the president's home. It found evidence of gross inflation of prices, shoddy workmanship and a waste of taxpayers' money in the controversial security upgrades. Zanele Buthelezi reports
Government's short to medium term job opportunities have restored the dignity of poor South Africans who have never worked in their lives. This according to the Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa. He visited the beneficiaries of government's Public Employment Programme initiative in Orange Farm south of Johannesburg. Unemployed young people at the Orange Farm Skills Centre are running a food garden with a soup kitchen to feed the poor in the community. The centre also has a computer laboratory which has benefited over 3000 learners. Ntebo Mokobo reports.
During our Forum at eight discussion yesterday with veteran journalist Joe Thloloe on the life of struggle hero Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, some of our listeners voiced their concerns that the history of Sobukwe is not being taught adequately at the Robben Island Museum, claiming that there is very little interest by the museum to tell his story and to respond to this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Robben Island Museum Chief Executive Officer Sibongiseni Mkhize
- Inflation numbers that came out yesterday
- The challenges Anglo American faces at its 2 subsidiaries Kumba and Amplats
- Updates on US earnings
Prasa chairperson Popo Molefe says he's confident that police investigations will reveal details of a plot to kill him. Molefe has opened a conspiracy to commit murder case, saying threats are being made on his life. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Popo Molefe.
- Asian stocks drop with Nasdaq affected by Apple results on its futures
- Australia core consumer prices rise 0.6%
- More debt traders seen at risk as European banks report results
Police Minister Nathi Nhleko has again come under fire from opposition parties for his report which exonerated President Jacob Zuma on the security upgrades at his Nkandla home. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Policy and Political analyst from Unisa, Prof Somadoda Fikeni...
Police will still be allowed to remove a disorderly MP from the National Assembly chamber when there is a threat to life. This was the agreement in the Sub-Rules Committee of the National Assembly's Rules Committee. The sub-committee was finalising various proposals to amend the rules that seek to strengthen the authority of the speaker and new procedures to remove disorderly MPs. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
Police Minister Nathi Nhleko has again come under fire from opposition parties for his report which exonerated President Jacob Zuma on the security upgrades at his Nkandla home. Nhleko's been accused of patronage and lacking security expertise in compiling the probe. He appeared before the Parliamentary ad hoc committee on Nkandla, sitting at the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature in Pietermaritzburg. He defended his report that lists the cattle kraal, culvert, chicken run, swimming pool and amphitheatre as part of security features. Zanele Buthelezi reports
- Lets look at Apple's results - "Apple Reports Record Third Quarter Results"
- The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) leading indicator that came out yesterday
- Evraz Highveld Steel halting SA production
A family from Vosloorus in Gauteng wants answers following the death of its member after she went to a clinic suffering from flu. Its alleged that twenty-three-year old Nonhlanhla Nyembesi went to Jabulane Dumane Clinic in Vosloorus last week where she received an injection and died the following day. Senior Health Journalist Thabile Mbhele reports
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Asian stocks rose as a weaker yen buoyed Japanese equities and consumer shares advanced
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China Heralds Boost for Emerging Nations With BRICS Bank Opening
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Why the MPC should consider a halt in Rate decision
The DA says it is preparing a document for the Judicial Commission that will force it to investigate the fitness of the national police commissioner, Riah Phiyega. This follows allegations that Phiyega tipped off Western Cape police commissioner, Arno Lamoer, about a police investigation into him. SAkina Kamwendo speaks to DA Shadow Minister of Police, Dianne Kohler-Barnard.
Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at Kumba interim earnings coming out today, An update on US earnings season and SA inflation numbers coming out tomorrow
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at; 1. Precious metals were routed as gold sank to the lowest in more than five years amid prospects for higher U.S. rates and after China said it held less metal in reserves than some analysts forecast
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The riot in Greece saga continues as the country feels betrayed
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Australia's biggest lenders will have to set aside more capital against potential losses on home loans
SA Police Service (SAPS) tactical response team (TRT) - also known as the amaBerete - in Limpopo allegedly constantly deployed to provide an armed police escort to international cigarette company, British American Tobacco (BAT). Despite declaring R81 billion in profits from its global operation last year, BAT allegedly receives police protection for free.We speak to Police Spokesperson Solomon Makgale and the General Secretary of South African Policing Union Oscar Skommere.
SABC Radio News Current Excutitve Producer, Krivani Pillay speaks Nedbank's to Portfolio Manager Rhulani Lehong about their role in the Retshwenyegile Relief Givers in Bodibe village, North West.
On the Forum@8 this morning, Will be coming live from Bodibe Village,unveilling our biggest project to date...As we join those saying 'thank you TATA...'
On the Forum@8 this morning, Will be coming live from Bodibe Village,unveilling our biggest project to date...As we join those saying 'thank you TATA...
Asian stocks headed for the biggest weekly gain since April Chinese stocks rose for the second day running, erasing the benchmark indexes loss this week ** Investment company Brait complete their acquisition of Virgin Active
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) CEO Lucky Montana has been fired with immediate effect. This is according to the Media24 newspaper Rapport. The newspaper also recently reported on Prasa's 51-billion rand tender for new passenger coaches that allegedly did not conform to the country's rail standards. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to to Satawu general Secretary Zenzo Mahlangu
The Department of Trade and Industry is concerned about illegal online gambling in South Africa. On Wednesday, the department held a seminar which looked at challenges faced in regulating and combating online gambling.Online gambling is currently illegal in South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chief Director of Policy and Legislation at the Department of Trade and Industry, MacDonald Netshitenzhe
- ECB announces an extension of emergency liquidity to Greece
- Rand has been a bit on the back foot. Can we expect a reprieve?
- U.S. earning season well underway with some big names reporting today and early next week
Major political parties in Parliament's National Assembly have given thumbs up, to changes to the teen sex law, and raised the importance of educating adolescents about sex. The bill states that consensual sexual acts between teenagers older than 12 is not a crime, as long as the age gap between the two sex partners is less than two years.
Tšepiso Makwetla speaks to Nedbank’s Connie Gugushe about the veggie garden they are building in Bodibe village for Retshwenyegile Relief Givers.
The Energy Department has revealed plans to build nine nuclear power stations in the country. These power stations are expected to produce 23 percent or 9600 MW of the country's power by 2030. The energy department's Deputy Director General for nuclear energy, Zizamele Mbambo, says this is part of government's electricity plan which has a mixed energy agenda and Sakina kamwendo spoke to the DDG...
- Asian Stocks Rise on U.S. Retail Sales Ahead of BOJ commentary on stimulus
- The nuclear agreement announced on Tuesday between Iran and global powers is being called historic and monumental
- Yellen Faces Tough Time Convincing Traders She'll Act This Year on interest rates
The Municipal Demarcation Board is set to delimit metropolitan municipalities, local municipalities and wards. The board has completed its public consultative process on the ward delimitations for the 2016 local elections. It will soon be publishing the first set of its delimitations in the Provincial Gazettes. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Municipal Demarcation Board chairperson, Jane Thupana
A listener sent us a message this morning asking about the trains that were torched last night at Germiston Train station. Sfiso wanted to know if communters are safe . To get the details Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Metrorail spokesperson Lillian Mofokeng
Efforts by the nine unions to try to debate the return of Numsa at Cosatu special congress was unsuccessful. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Numsa's Deputy General Secretary Karl Cloete to give us his reaction to what transpired at the congress
South Africa is looking to China to address problems in its state-owned-enterprises. Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa is on an official visit to China. Ramaphosa is being accompanied by two cabinet ministers and four deputy ministers. Most of China's state-owned enterprises are partially publicly listed with interests in real estate, the financial sector and rail. Ramaphosa says government is also seeking to partner with the East Asian giants in areas such as governance and training. Tshepo Mongoai is in Beijing, China and compiled this report
Two doctors and a nurse from KwaZulu-Natal state hospitals, north of Durban, have been suspended after a critically injured patient died because they were allegedly bickering over which hospital should treat him. MEC S'bongiseni Dhlomo is to report the incident to professional bodies, which will be able to determine if they acted negligently. Meanwhile, a private ambulance service operating in Verulam and Phoenix, says they are often sent from one hospital to another by lazy hospital staff. Dries Liebenberg reports
- D-DAY FOR GREEK PARLIAMENT
- STARBUCKS COMING TO SA ...
- CHINA GROWTH BEATS ESTIMATES AS STIMULUS KICKS IN
A police station that should have cost 52 million rand, is costing taxpayers an additional 54 million rand! The Diepsloot police station, north of Johannesburg was expected to take 3 years to build. However, 8 years later, it is yet to open it's doors to the public. Diepsloot has one of the highest crime rates in Gauteng and residents had hoped the new police station will help increase police visibility in the township. Tshepo Phagane visited the community and filed this report.
- Asian stocks rose a fourth day amid relief over Greece's debt deal
- U.S. stocks rose, with the Standard & Poor's 500 Index posting its best three-day rally this year
- China bigger worry for SA than Greece
Fighting in Burundi is intensifying. According to reports, Burundi's army has killed more than 30 rebels and 170 others have been captured in the north of the country. This comes amid increased political unrest following President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid to run for a third term. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Yolande Bouka, a researcher at the Institute for Security Studies based in Nairobi
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
China has offered to develop South Africa's skills capacity in nuclear technology with no conditions. This emerged during the South Africa-China bilateral talks held in Beijing. China and Russia have surfaced as the leading bidders for our nine thousand six hundred megawatt nuclear power project. According to the deputy minister of Trade and Industry Mzwandile Masina the offer is not conditional. The talks were part of a build up ahead of an official visit by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa to China. Tshepo Mongoai reports from Beijing
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
COSATU unions sympathetic to expelled general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi and NUMSA suffered massive defeats at the COSATU special national Congress. In the end it all came down to numbers - and they lost in the votes on the credentials and agenda. They pushed hard - forcing the debate to come to a vote. It was a dramatic day with the media kicked out of the congress during the heated debates - an unprecedented move in recent COSATU history. Senior political reporter Busi Chimombe reports
Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni will be in Burundi's capital on Tuesday to try to bridge a political impasse that has seen two United Nations-appointed mediators fail before him. Skirmishes between the army and armed groups near the border with Rwanda, increased grenade attacks in the capital and the continued outflow of refugees to neighbouring countries has confirmed the UN view that the country is on the brink of violence. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports
- GREEK PRIME MINISTER ALEXIS TSIPRAS SEEMINGLY CAPITULATED TO SEAL A DEAL. BUT WILL IT PASS GREEK PARLIAMENT ?
- IRAN NUCLEAR DEAL APPEARS IMMINENT
- MACRO FOCUS TO SHIFT TO FED CHAIR JANET YELLEN'S TESTIMONY LATER THIS WEEK
Cosatu President Sdumo Dlamini says they've put up measures to deal with possible disruptions at their two-day Special National Congress starting this morning at Midrand's Gallagher Estate. The meeting is convened at the request of a third of the labour federation's affiliates who say they are unhappy at the current leadership and its inability to implement programmes agreed to at the last ordinary National Congress in December 2012. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu President Sdumo Dlamini
Resident market analyst Clive Ramathibela talks about Asian stocks advance as investors weigh progress in Greece talks, China's exports rise in another sign of stabilizing economy and Australia's Prime Minister Abbott, Bans fund from wind farm investment
A young white initiate has just graduated from boyhood to manhood at Centane in the Eastern Cape. Seventeen year-old Estiaan Swanepoel says despite criticism over the initiation ritual, he chose to be a man by going through the Xhosa ritual. He was welcomed by locals and parents in a ceremony held at Centane. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports
Market update with Mohammed Nalla looks at Greece - no resolution over the weekend, China trade data better but stocks still volatile and Iranians may close a deal with major powers
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Taxi services were halted yesterday after National Taxi Alliance announced that more than 50 impounded taxis would be released and fines scrapped. The taxis were impounded during Operation Fiela following days of violence in which four people were wounded and some Autopax passenger buses stoned. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to a taxi operator in Mamelodi Phuti Tlhwaele...
Lewis Stores and Monarch Insurance are in hot water for allegedly selling loss-of-employment insurance cover to pensioners and self-employed consumers. The National Credit Regulator (NCR) has taken up the matter with National Consumer Tribunal for further investigation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Credit Regulator's Secretary Lesiba Mashapa...
Divisions within the ANC-led tripartite alliance over e-tolls have played themselves out at the SACP's special national congress in Soweto. Labour federation Cosatu remains adamant that either the system be scrapped, or that government uses the fuel levy to maintain the roads. However deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that a higher fuel levy will have consequences for workers who largely depend on public transport. Ramaphosa says has however re-assured Cosatu that government's doors remain opened for it to engage further on the user pays system. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports
Earlier this week on the forum@8 we discussed botched circumcisions and how do we curb it...Now, the Deputy minister of Traditional Affairs Deputy Minister Obed Bapela is in the Eastern Cape. Where a young man has lost his manhood and four others critically in hospital. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy minister Obed Bapela...
- With all the focus on Greece and Chinese markets this week, we haven't really spoken about indicators in the US. What is latest from the Fed and their plan to increase interest rates in the US?
- At the last local MPC meeting, governor Kganyago gave a stern warning that we should expect local rates to increase sooner rather than later. Do you think that events of the last few weeks may change this? 3.MTN Zakhele announced this week that it is preparing to list on the JSE. How does this compare to the MTN shares that are already listed on the JSE?
The Southern Africa Development Community Council of NGOs (SADC- CNGO) says it is alarmed by the current developments in Lesotho. The Council has also called for Lesotho's military chief Lieutenant-General Tlali Kamoli to immediately step down to give the country a chance at peace and stability. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Boichoko Ditlhake, Executive Director of the SADC Council of NGOs…
- Asian stocks erased losses and U.S. equity-index futures climbed as some of the most heavily sold shares in Hong Kong and China rebounded
- China's stocks rose in volatile trading, led by consumer and health-care companies, as the government battled to restore investor confidence in a market that's lost $3.9 trillion in less than a month
- AMCU quits Gold sector negotiations
- Thursday investment theme - Life stage Investing
The South African judiciary will meet with President Jacob Zuma to discuss the recent attacks on it and for analysis on this matter Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Executive Secretaty for Council for the Advancement of South African Constitution Lawson Naidoo
The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) has allegedly quit collective negotiations with Gold producers AngloGold Ashanti, Sibanye Gold, Harmony Gold and two other gold producers. Amcu has allegedly threatened strike action because there is no progress. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gold producer's spokesperson Charmane Russell and Amcu treasurer Jimmy Gama
The Pretoria High Court has declared Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies' decision to award the lottery licence to Ithuba Holdings as invalid. This comes after previous lottery company Gidani approached the High Court in Pretoria seeking a judicial review of the manner in which the tender to Ithuba was awarded. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ithuba's CEO Charmaine Mabuza
- Yesterday morning we heard that trading had been suspended in more than half of Chinese stocks. Later in the day trading was suspended on the New York Stock Exchange for several hours due to "technical issues". Is there any link between here to purely coincidence?
- Considering events in the rest of the world, isn't it then surprising that the JSE managed to claw its way back above the 50,000 level yesterday. What propped up our market?
- The Labour Court yesterday ruled in favour of Solidarity in its urgent interdict against Telkom in its current retrenchment plans. What did you make of this development?
- Asian stocks climbed and Treasuries fell amid speculation that Monday's sell-off in risk assets was overdone
- Samsung Electronics Co. posted second-quarter profit that missed analysts' estimates as shortages of new smartphones made it harder to lure customers from Apple Inc.'s iPhone and cheaper devices made in China
- `Banana Republic' Tag Haunts Australia 30 Years On
The Greek government plans to propose a new bailout deal with creditors at an emergency Eurozone summit in Brussels today. This comes in the wake of Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis' resignation, after the country voted to reject the terms of a bailout. Experts say the resounding rejection puts the country's euro zone membership into further doubt. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Peter Draper, Managing Director of Tutwa Consulting...
The case against former crime intelligence boss Richard Mdluli has been struck off the roll at the Pretoria Commercial Crimes Court. Mdluli is being charged with fraud and corruption. National Prosecuting Authority spokesman Luvuyo Mfaku said the court scrapped the case because the police investigation had not been completed. For an analysis Sakina kamwendo spoke to Professor Shadrack Gutto from the Centre for African Renaissance Studies. He is also a legal and constitutional expert at Unisa.
Labour groups have rejected the initial pay offer made by the gold companies. The producers had proposed a five-year wage deal with annual wage increases of as much as 13%, plus a share of profits. Gold producers want to stem rising costs that have left half of the industry unprofitable. The National Union of Mineworkers is demanding an 80% increase in basic pay. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting spokesperson for the NUM , Livhuwani Mammburu
Three of the four gold mining industry unions, the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and Solidarity have rejected increases of between six hundred and fifty and one thousand rands for the former, and five percent for the latter, fixed for five years, that has been tabled by gold mining majors AngloGold Ashanti, Sibanye, Harmony Gold, Evander and Village Main Reef. Frank Nxumalo reports
A review regarding a limitation on fees and interest rates applicable for borrowings are up for comment. The Department of Trade and Industry published a Gazette Notice to proposes changes to maximum rates for unsecured credit. Research studies and statistics show that South Africa has a worrying high level of over-indebtedness. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Department's deputy director-general for consumer and corporate regulation, Zodwa Ntuli...
· With all the focus yesterday on Europe and its petulant teenager, we didn't talk about China. What has been happening in that market over the last few days? · What impact has that had on commodity markets? · Speaking of commodities, NUM has rejected the opening offer of employers in the gold mining industry wage negotiations. The two sides appear to be miles apart. Are we heading for a repeat of the platinum industry stand-off of last year?
- Asian stocks fell, with the regional benchmark index set for its biggest drop in more than a year
- China suspended initial public offerings, while brokerages pledged to buy shares and state media urged investors not to panic as officials intensified efforts to stop the steepest plunge in equities since 1992
- Why the Greeks Matter now?
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa has dismissed reports that 13 new locomotives imported from Spain are too high for local rail conditions. Prasa was responding to a Sunday newspaper report that the diesel locomotives worth 600 million could damage overhead electrical cables. The locomotives were reportedly bought despite warnings that they were unsuitable for South African conditions. Meanwhile DA MP Manny De Freitas accused Prasa of misleading Parliament. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Prasa spokesperson Moffet Mofokeng and DA MP Manny De Freitas
Hundreds of people gathered at the Chris Hani High School in Khayelitsha yesterday to remember the eight young women who died at a tavern last week. Six young women were killed during the early hours of Sunday morning in a stampede at Osi's tavern when a structure collapsed. Two more died in a car crash while en route to hospital. Community leaders as well as government authorities have once again been urged to take action in the selling of liquor to under age persons. Berenice Moss reports
What does the "NO" vote mean for Greece? What does the "NO" vote mean for the Euro? ** What does the "NO" vote mean for South Africa?
Co-founder of the Soul Brothers David Masondo has died after spending almost two months in the Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. This was confirmed by the Managing Director of Johan Sibiya Music Promotions, where Masondo recorderd his last album. Masondo was born in Hammersdale in Durban in 1950. He started his musical career by doing gigs in townships with Groovy Boys. He later co-founded the Soul Brothers, the band that has successfully popularized the South African soul concept umbhaqanga. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Managing Director of Johan Sibiya Music Promotions, Johan Sibiya
Transport spokesperson Tiyani Rikhotso says they're pleading with the taxi association to help curb violence in #Mamelodi.
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at what’s happening in the mining front in South Africa. 1. Strong calls were made at high level this week for government and business to work together to end the current stagnation of the South African economy. 2. South Africans and Americans are working together brilliantly to boost the local content of locomotives. 3. The local content of South Africa’s taxis has been boosted sky high through a R550-million investment.
Regional leaders are to meet this morning to find a solution to Lesotho's political crisis. This follows the killing of former army commander Maaparankoe Mahao. Last year's violence saw then prime minister Tom Thabane flee the country months before he lost the election to Pakalitha Mosisili. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter in Lesotho Nthakoana Ngatane
- China's stocks slumped, extending a bear-market rout, as government measures to shore up equities failed to stop margin traders from unwinding positions
- Research shows that social media impacts negatively on Small Business!
- A Chinese company wants its employees to ask for permission to get pregnant
Today, the EFF will be going to the Marikana police station in the North West, to lay criminal charges against Cyril Ramaphosa, Nathi Mthethwa, Rhia Phiyega, Zukiswa Mbombo, and Lonmin for the deaths of 44 people, mainly miners, in Marikana in 2012. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson for the EFF, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi
SA consumer confidence numbers that came out yesterday update on Greece heading into the referendum ** Is buying SA equities still a good idea given that they are expensive
The government has sold its 13,91 percent stake in Vodacom to the Public Investment Corporation to help fund the 23-billion rand allocation to Eskom. National Treasury says these measures will strengthen Eskom's balance sheet. The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) this week declined Eskom's most recent tariff increase application. To assess whether the sale of the Vodacom stake was the most viable option open to government. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to energy expert and Managing Director of EE Publishers, Chris Yelland.
The appointment of SABC's Group CEO has been met with mixed reactions. Frans Matlala - a former bank executive - fills the position which has been vacant for more than a year after Lulama Mokhobo resigned in February last year. The ANC and the DA have welcomed the Matlala's appointment while COPE believe the Matlala's tenure won't bring any change to the broadcaster. Noma Bolani reports
Government has allocated 18-billion rand to improve socio-economic conditions of distressed mining communities across the country. This was announced by President Jacob Zuma in an exclusive interview with the SABC. In the aftermath of the August 2012 Marikana shootings, President Zuma established an Inter-Ministerial Committee for the revitalisation of mining areas as an intervention mechanism to curb potential unrest. Presidential Correspondent Tshepo Ikaneng
Sadc facilitator Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa rushed back to Lesotho yesterday following fears of more political instability in the country. Ramaphosa was sent by SADC Troika Chairperson President Jacob Zuma following a report by a Troika fact finding mission on the killing of former army commander Maaparankoe Mahao. Nthakoana Nkatane reports
He's humble, yet hard working. He's dedicated to his job, works long hours and won't rest until he has an accused person locked up behind bars. That's Captain Selaelo Ramabale of the Gauteng Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit. The shy and soft-spoken detective is commended for cracking several cases, mainly involving serial rapists. In one of the cases, he spent eight months sleeping in dump-sites searching for an alleged serial child rapist, Peter "Dashboy" Khoza. Khoza is facing close to 240 counts including rape, sexual assault and kidnapping. Tshepo Phagane spoke to Ramabale about his work and how he managed to apprehend Dashboy
- The euro dropped with Asian stocks and U.S. index futures, while Treasuries surged by the most since 2013 as the collapse of Greek rescue talks roiled global markets
- Some of China's biggest state firms were found to have falsified revenue and profits, while some state lenders doled out loans to unqualified borrowers
- Scelo Nciki on twitter asks; What do u make of da insider trading claim by FSB on #ChristoWiese (Pepkor & Brait)?#MarketAnalyst
Terror continues to loom over Lesotho with the killing of former army commander Maaparankoe Mahao by soldiers. South African Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula is in Lesotho on a SADC fact-finding mission joined by delegates from South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent in Lesotho Nthakoana Ngatane...
The Democratic Alliance says families of miners killed at the Marikana tragedy deserve' compensation. The party leader Mmusi Maimane says families suffered loss of income and hardship. President Jacob Zuma released the findings of the Farlam commission of inquiry last week Thursday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to DA leader Mmusi Maimane
Naspers results coming out today An update on Greece ** U.S. first quarter growth numbers that were confirmed
- Asian stocks fell, following global equities lower, as Greece and its creditors broke off talks for the night in Europe without reaching a deal.
- Two resources company reports show tough times in the sector - ( Sentula Mining and Keaton Energy )
- United Nations Conference on Trade and Development reports negative Foreign Direct Investments for RSA ending 2014
- Thursday Investment Theme : Risk-Return Trade-off
The High Court in Pretoria has requested the National Director of Public Prosecutions to consider initiating criminal charges against government for allowing Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir to leave South Africa despite a court order forbidding it. .To discuss this further Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the International Criminal Justice lawyer at the Southern African Litigation Centre, Angela Mudukuti,report by Abongwe Kobokana and to unpack the legal ramification of the judgement we're now joined on the line by an associate professor of public law at the University of Cape Town, Richard Calland
The Pretoria High Court has declared the extension of a tender for a company that has been operating the eNatis system null and void. The Department of Transport's former Director General George Mahlalela, allegedly extended Tasima's contract between 2010 to 2015 without following proper procedures. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Transport Department's spokesperson, Tiyani Rokhotso.
South African and Argentinian paleotologists have discovered a new 200-million year old dinosaur in South Africa and named it Sefapanosaurusafter the Sesotho word "Sefapano" meaning cross. The specimen was found in the 1930s in the Free State, but remained hidden among the largest collection of fossils in South Africa at Wits University. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Jonah Choiniere of the Wits Evolutionary Studies Institute...
Two siblings kidnapped in Mpumalanga in July last year are making their way back home tomorrow.. The siblings were allegedly trafficked to Malawi under false pretences by a woman who offered them free education and employment in the United Kingdom. Social Development spokesperson Lumka Oliphant spoke to Sakina Kamwendo and says the siblings are safe and unharmed.
- ASIAN MARKETS RALLY LED BY JAPANESE STOCKS WHICH ARE AT THEIR HIGHEST PEAK IN 8 YEARS
- THE RAND STRENGTHENS FOLLOWING STRONG DOMESTIC CURRENT ACCOUNTS DEFICIT RESULTS
- PRICES OF OIL SLIGHTLY INCREASED FOLLOWING REVISED DEMAND MEANING WE MIGHT SEE PETROL PRICE HIKES NEXT MONTH
Many Northern Cape residents are back to using bucket toilets. This comes after the controversial 631-million rand sanitation tender awarded to the non-compliant Siyenza Group was terminated earlier this month. The cancellation of the lucrative tender follows months of investigation and exposure of extremely poor service delivery and maladministration which have left many residents of the Amathole District back with the bucket system. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Water and Sanitation Affairs Spokesperson, Mlimandlela Ndamase...
South Africa's power supply crisis poses the biggest obstacle to growth. That's according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). It says there is a need for higher tariffs. The IMF singled out delays in easing electricity shortages, and policy and regulatory uncertainties as chief constraints to economic growth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to IMF senior representative in SA, Axel Schimmelpfennig
The Ad Hoc Committee on Nkandla has decided to consider Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko's report on President Jacob Zuma's security upgrades at his private residence. Committee Chairperson Cedric Frolick spoke to Sakina Kamwendo and says he is also considering visiting Nkandla for assessments.
The current account data that came out for SA yesterday The danger present in U.S . Equities
Are South Africans getting value for money from public representatives. Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent takes a look at some of the benefits that MPs are entitled to, so that they carry out their constitutional mandate. Their remuneration benefits are determined by the Commission that deals with the remuneration of public office bearers. But they also get administrative support from parliament
- Asian stocks climbed with U.S. index futures and the euro ahead of an emergency summit on Greece's debt crisis
- Japanese stocks rose, led by insurers and banks, as investors await for more data out of the Eurozone and their resolution
- China Aircraft CEO Resigns During Vacation, Can't Be Reached
The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) says opposition to E- tolling organisations such as OUTA and JPSA are misleading the public. Sanral's spokesperson Vusi Mona says their statements are based on selective reading of the Gazette which clearly explains the new lowered tariffs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vusi Mona and OUTA Spokesperson, Wayne Duvenage,
Gold producers are reportedly going to present unions with a package of welfare-boosting measures when wage talks begin today. The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is to push for an 84% rise in basic pay for entry-level gold mining workers whilst its fierce rival, (AMCU) has asked for a R12,500 per month basic wage. The wage negotiations, come at a time when the industry is grappling with depressed prices, falling production and rising costs. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to NUM General Secretary David Sipunzi
Water rationing has kicked in at a number of municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal in a bid to conserve water in the province. The Hazelmere Dam that supply Durban and surrounding towns, has a mere two months supply of water remaining. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube
The emergency Eurozone summit being held on Greece today Where to find value on the stock market into the sell-off ** The precarious position faced by US equities
OUTRO: That was Nadir Thokan analyst at 27four investments
- The Bank of Japan maintained its record monetary stimulus as Governor Haruhiko Kuroda seeks to spur inflation and announced plans to improve transparency
- China's stocks fell, sending the benchmark index toward its steepest weekly loss since 2008
- How automation is slowly changing the future employee and career choice? Artistic versus Academic!
A record 60-million people are displaced worldwide - the highest number ever reported in one year. The conflict in Syria is the biggest single cause of displacement. This is according to the UN Refugee Agency's annual Global Trends Report. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the UNHCR's Senior Regional External Relations Officer based in Pretoria, Tina Ghelli
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has a new head. President Jacob Zuma has appointed Advocate Shaun Kevin Abrahams - a senior state advocate in the NPA's Priority Crimes unit. To unpack this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Executive Secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, Lawson Naidoo.
After an intensive 14-hour manhunt, the man suspected of killing nine people in a United States church during a prayer meeting is now in police custody. The murdering of six women and three men in the historic Emmanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina has sent shocking waves across the world. 21-year-old Dylann Roof was apprehended about 260 kilometers away in the town of Shelby in neighbouring North Carolina as Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
Update From Coal-Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looking at; Global giant Glencore is putting millions into education in South Africa’s coalfields, Global pressure against the use of fossil fuels could hasten the introduction of clean coal technologies and jobless mining engineering graduates are pleading for a look in.
Political parties have expressed mixed views about the the degeneration of the National Assembly proceedings that led to the adjournment of the house during president Jacob Zuma's oral reply session yesterday. But the EFF remains unapologetic as our Our Parliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent reports
EU finance ministers fail to reach an agreement on Greece U.S Inflation data indicates continued softness in short term ** Mcdonalds in U.S to close more stores than it opens
The Limpopo Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Department has warned illegal initiation schools that they risk being shut down. The warning comes as young men head to initiation schools across the country. In the Eastern Cape nine initiates have been hospitalized, this after they suffered injuries related to circumcision gone wrong. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to deputy minister of Cooperative governance and traditional affairs Obed Bapela
Asian market update with market analyst Clive Ramathibela: Asian stocks rose for the first time in four days, Chinese lead foreign U.S. home purchases for the first time and Thursday investment theme: Money Market Investing
Economic news update with Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank Capital: US Federal Reserve keeps rates on hold for now, the rand retraces to R12.30 to the dollar, SA inflation up a tick and retail sales better than expected
The Portfolio Committee on Labour says it finds it unacceptable that the National Development Labour and Economic Council (Nedlac) did not provide all the documentation to investigate the forensic report on alleged fraud at Nedlac. The report allegedly implicates Herbert Mkhize, former executive director of Nedlac, now an advisor to Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant, in irregular expenses of over 1-million rand. This includes unauthorised overseas trips, car hire and household goods using an official card. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to chairperson of Parliament's portfolio committee on labour, Lumka Yengeni,
- Asian stocks rose for the first time this week amid speculation the Federal Reserve will signal a slow pace of monetary tightening at the end of its monthly meeting
- Japan's exports rose at the slowest pace in May since a decline in August last year
- India set to overtake China in Population and Economic Growth
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Netwerk24 has revealed that about 1 400 South African soldiers in Darfur were held “hostage” by Sudanese troops when the drama around Al-Bashir’s possible arrest in South Africa escalated.
South Sudan leads East Africa with the highest number of under age brides according to Child rights group Save the Children. Almost half of all South Sudanese women between the ages of 15 and 19 are married, putting them at risk of death during child birth, illiteracy and poverty. As the world marks this year's day of the African child we take a look at South Sudan and efforts to eradicate early marriages. Sarah Kimani reports
Higher probability of Greek default causes European yields to surge U.S data yesterday still mixed. Eyes on Yellen this evening ** SA CPI data expected out today
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
EFF leader Julius Malema says African leaders must stand up and defend Bashir from being arrested by the International Criminal Court. Malema says the ICC is only targeting African leaders. He was addressing delegates at the launch of the party's student wing at the University of Limpopo's Turfloop campus outside Polokwane
The North West provincial government has dismissed reports that the province has been renamed to Bokone Bophirima. Bokone Bophirima which translates to North West in Setswana is listed on the provincial government's official website. Afriforum is campaigning against the name change, saying it came as a "big shock" as there was no public consultation. Initially a proposal was made to rename the province after Moses Kotane, who was the general secretary of the SA Communist Party. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sam Mokaila, Spokesperson to North West premier Supra Mahumapelo...
- S&P affirmed South Africa's credit rating on Friday evening
- Greek debt talks deadlock dampens risk appetite
- Eyes on US Federal reserve this week Wednesday as interest rate hike looms
The justice department is preparing for arguments in the High Court in Pretoria, amidst reports that Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir had already left South Africa last night. However, it could not be verified. Al-Bashir's reported departure came against an order by the High Court in Pretoria made earlier yesterday afternoon, compelling South African authorities to not allow the Sudanese president to leave the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for the department of Justice, Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga...
Asian market update and analysis with Clive Ramathibela: Asian stocks climbed, erasing a weekly decline, while bonds in the region rebounded as investors weighed the outlook for monetary easing in the region and gradual U.S. tightening, Twitter CEO to leave soon as pressure continues to mount for him to exit, and the IMF walks out during the Greek saga meeting as the European union gives ultimatums to Prime Minister Tsipras
16 year old Pretoria student says she was forced to cancel a trip abroad after she could not locate her father who according to the new visa regulations, has to provide consent for her to travel. Vuyina Nguye says she was due to travel to China to participate in a competition that could open new doors to her future. The regulations require children to have an unabridged birth certificate as well as a passport when leaving or entering the country. Vuyina Nguye spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Cabinet has decided to look into the objections to the new visa regulations. The inter-ministerial team will address the consequences caused by the implementation of the new travel laws last month. The regulations require children to have an unabridged birth certificate as well as a passport when leaving or entering the country. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting Cabinet Spokesperson Phumla Williams
The South African Army has embarked on an intensive programme to recruit young, white South Africans into the military. The Chief of the Army, Lieutenant-General Vusumuzi Masondo, has appealed to the media to help in the national drive to bring under-represented communities into the armed forces. Last month, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said too few whites were joining the SANDF. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief of the Army, Lieutenant-General Vusi Masondo
Economic news and analysis with Nerina Visser of ETF SA Mining and manufacturing production stats released yesterday points to ongoing sluggishness in the South African economy, finance minister Nhlanhla Nene say GDP growth of 2% is "attainable and realistic", despite the electricity shortages and the African Union Annual Summit is currently taking place in Sandton ...
Convicted fraudster, Shabir Shaik, is considering working again after his medical parole conditions were relaxed. But the 57 year old doubts that he will be able to find suitable employment given the fact that he is still being restricted to the Durban area. Shaik has told SABC News that he needs to be able to leave the country to work, but that he doubts he will ever be allowed to do so after the department of correctional services refused to convert his medical parole into ordinary parole...
The prevalence of HIV infections is highest among sex workers and truck drivers in Africa when compared to the general population. According to a study by the health network - North Star Alliance - the infection rate among sex workers and truck drivers is 40 percent. This study was presented yesterday at the 7th AIDS Conference in Durban. Nonjabulo Mntungwa reports
South African CEO's are fast losing confidence in their ability to do business. This is because Eskom is struggling to keep the lights on. The Merchantec CEO confidence index released yesterday (Wednesday) showed that many CEO's believe the general public are not getting the full story behind the national power crisis, the true state of the power stations and their level of deterioration. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Merchantec CEO confidence index market reseacher, Nikki Rayner
- Asian stocks climbed a second day amid optimism Greece will forge a debt deal, while Australian debt fell after stronger jobs data
- Japanese stocks rose for the first time in five days
- South Africa's Q2 business confidence eases to 43 points , CEO's upset!
- Thursday Investment Theme: Trading CFD's ( Contracts For Difference )
Amnesty International has intensified its action in fighting gender equality and women empowerment. Under the slogan: "Universal access to sexual and reproductive rights, a non-negotiable for achieving gender equality and women's empowerment", a team of experts ranging from ministers, commissioners, legal experts and community activists have met ahead of the African Union Summit to address these sensitive issues. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Amnesty International's researcher for Southern Africa, Louise Carmody...
The South African National AIDS Council says hundreds of HIV positive South African women have been sterilized against their wishes, because of their HIV status. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to CEO of the South African National AIDS Council Dr Fareed Abdullah…
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says the benefits of the new e-toll dispensation are beginning to be felt. He has told Parliament the idea of having a referundum on e-tolls is not being considered, adding that government sometimes has to take unpopular decisions for the benefit of its citizens. Lulama Matya filed this report
- Asia Stocks Swing as Energy Producers Rise
- A-Shares Delay With Regulator Working Group and CNNP suspended for reaching high levels
- The U.S. Economy Can't Hire Health-Care Workers Fast Enough
The African Union is reviewing country contributions and searching for alternative funding methods as it strives to claim its independence by not relying on foreign donors. Several alternative forms of funding have been proposed that could see ordinary Africans in some countries paying the AU bill. On other issues that will be discussed at the summit, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chris Landsberg, Professor and SARChi Chair of African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at the University of Johannesburg.
The African Union is reviewing country contributions and searching for alternative funding methods as it strives to claim its independence by not relying on foreign donors. Several alternative forms of funding have been proposed that could see ordinary Africans in some countries paying the AU bill. On other issues that will be discussed at the summit, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chris Landsberg, Professor and SARChi Chair of African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at the University of Johannesburg.
MSCI announced the much awaited result of their annual market classification review last night. At stake was the status of Chinese A shares, which is currently NOT included in MSCI indices. What was decided and what can we expect now? · Anglogold-Ashanti sells one of their mines for R10bn and the share price jumps by more than 10%. What about this deal did the market like so much? · Another big mover yesterday was the oil price. How does that relate to the recent OPEC meeting?
To shed more light on the plight of organ donation in South Africa Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Samantha Nicholls, Executive Director of the Organ Donor Foundation...
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian Markets;
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Asian Stocks Drop on China Data, and the Won Gains With Oil raising
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Hong Kong Wants Stock Trading Limits to Combat Fat Fingers, Rogue Algorithms
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Telkom results impress as they will pay dividends for the first time since 2011
Minister of Higher Education Blade Nzimande says he intends to introduce new college funding system.
The South African Revenue Service, SARS, is planning to take its former spokesperson Adrian Lackay to court over claims of defamation. In a letter written to parliament, Lackay accused the revenue service's commissioner, Tom Moyane, of forcing him to lie to the public. We speak SARS employment relations executive, Luther Lebelo
The South African Revenue Service, SARS, is planning to take its former spokesperson Adrian Lackay to court over claims of defamation. In a letter written to parliament, Lackay accused the revenue service's commissioner, Tom Moyane, of forcing him to lie to the public. We speak SARS employment relations executive, Luther Lebelo
Strategist at ETFSA Nerina Visser looks at: Greece is one of the big topics on the agenda of the G7 meeting. It was announced that an agreement has been reached with the US on poultry imports, thereby reinstating AGOA and What is happening with the Rand? Quo vadis?
- Asian stocks fell for a fifth day, with the regional benchmark index heading for its second week of losses, following a decline in U.S. Equities
- IMF Urges Fed to Postpone Rate Lift-off to First Half of 2016
- The monetary value behind Chinese "Follow the Money" (FTM) has been successful but could harm the domestic currency
Government is expected to sell its non-strategic assets in order to raise funds for Eskom. It is not yet clear which assets government is planning to sell. To get a perspective on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chief Economist of Econometrix, Dr Azar Jammine.
For the first time in 21 years of a democratic South Africa, most opposition parties in Parliament have objected to the salary increase of President Jacob Zuma. But in the end, 203 members voted in favour of his salary hike, while 88 voted against it. Lulama Matya reports
The world's 40 biggest mining companies are said to be failing to produce returns. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers, these mining companies declined to the lowest since at least 2003 following a slump in commodity prices. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Andries Rossouw, Assurance Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers...
Murder accused, Christopher Panayiotou, will know today if he'll walk out of St Albans Prison when a ruling on his bail application is made in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court. Magistrate Abigail Beaton earlier postponed ruling on the bail application for a third time, saying she needed more time to study all the documents. Last week, both the state and defence closed their arguments. Jayed-leigh Paulse has more
American ex FIFA executive at the centre of a decades long corruption scandal admitted that he accepted bribes linked to the hosting of both the 1998 and 2010 soccer world cup. The alleged bribe relating to the World Cup that was awarded to France in 1998, was information not made clear in the main indictment released by the U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch last week. Charles or "Chuck" Blazer's sworn testimony in front of a judge in 2013, in which he also pleads guilty to racketeering, wire fraud, money laundering and tax evasion, confirms that he and others on the FIFA Executive agreed to accept bribes 'in conjunction' with the selection of South Africa as 2010 World Cup host. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe has called on Cosatu affiliates work towards unifying the labour federation. Mantashe was speaking at the 15th national congress of the National Union of Metal Workers. The conference comes at a time when the federation it is at its weakest, following internal squabbles which resulted in the expulsion of the biggest affiliate Numsa and subsequently cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi. With the emergence of construction and mine worker's union AMCU and the apparent alternative federation being mooted by Numsa, Mantashe has warned that unity has now become a critical need within cosatu. Senior political Journalist Amos Phago reports.
Police Commission Riah Phiyega says there's an urgent need for her office to look at security at police stations after the death of five people in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg. Four people were shot dead at the local police station allegedly by an off duty police officer. Following the incident the officer ran back home, police gave chase and there was an exchange of fire in which he was also killed.
The Department of Energy says it is ready to start with the procurement process for South Africa's much-anticipated Nuclear Build Programme. The announcement comes as government is in the middle of tackling electricity supply challenges that are constraining economic growth. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director General of Nuclear Energy at the department, Zizamele Mbambo.
- Most Asian stocks fell as Japanese shares slid on a stronger yen and investors awaited the outcome of talks between Greece and its creditors
- Australia grew faster than forecast last quarter as newly built mines boosted exports
- Glencore Exit Shines Light on Platinum Bargain Lonmin
The North Gauteng High Court has ordered the Tshwane Metro Council to display the old street names along with the new ones. City of Tshwane lost its appeal against an interim order brought by AfriForum forcing them to place the old street names next to the current new ones; a move that could again cost the city millions of rands. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to AfriForum's legal representative Werner Human
Various local and international banks are under investigation for allegedly fixing the price of the rand in their trading. The Competition Commission says the collusion is widespread and alarming. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson of the Competition Commission, Mava Scott...
Sepp Blatter has announced his intentions to step down as FIFA president. His resignation comes just days after being re-elected as the FIFA president for the fifth time. The announcement is also amidst one of the biggest bribery scandals in history regarding world cup host proceedings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sports Editor at Sunday Times Bareng-Batho (BBK) Kortjaas…
The EFF Leader, Julius Malema's tax woes aren't over just yet. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) says they will continue to take necessary steps to recover tax money owed to them by the EFF Leader. This comes after the sequestration case against him was withdrawn by the High Court in Pretoria on Monday. SARS claimed Malema's total tax bill was over 32-million rand. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SARS employment relations executive, Luther Lebelo...
Mr Price trading update released yesterday The current status of Greek bailout talks ** The dangers in oil company related debt
Public Service Unions are threatening to withdraw from the wage agreement if government does not implement the seven percent increase. The Department of Public Service and Administration say they will raise salaries by 6.4 percent and not 7 percent as previously agreed. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu's Public Sector Union representative, Mugwena Maluleke.
In a move that could cripple the agricultural sector, the World Health Organisation says it is considering banning Glyphosate as a herbicide. The organisation says it's found a strong link between the herbicide and cancer. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Gerhard Verdoon of Crop Life SA
Market update with Market analyst Clive Ramathibela: Most Asian Stocks Rise With Yen Near 12-Year Low After U.S. Data, RBA and RBI rate announcements will influence investor confidence , HSBC, Malaysian Airline and Takata continue to struggle in their regions as slow growth bites into profit, Hermes Birkin makes record sale at Auction!! $223 000.00 for a pink handbag
The ANC in Limpopo has recalled two mayors. Thlalefi Mashamaite has been recalled as the mayor of the embattled Mogalakwena local municipality and Serite Sekgoloane recalled as mayor of Blouberg local municipality. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC Limpopo Provincial secretary, Nocks Seabi
The search for other galaxies will be one of the topics under discussion at the South African Large Telescope (SALT) Science Conference, this week. It will discuss the achievements of SALT since its establishment in 2005, as well as its future. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor
Business confidence numbers out for South Africa, Euro Zone inflation data and danger present in South African equities
Public Protector Thuli Madonsela, believes that President Jacob Zuma should pay back a portion of the money spent on his private residence. Madonsela blasted the police minister's report, describing as full of "half-truths, inaccuracies and distortions".
- Asian stocks fell amid concern about the strength of U.S. economic growth
- Popular stocks that were affected by the FIFA saga
- China Considers Doubling Its Local Bond-Swap Program
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
As from today (Monday 01 June), children traveling to and from South Africa must have unabridged birth certificates together with their passports. The Association of Southern African Travel Agents has however expressed concern over the implementation of this new requirement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Otto De Vries, , CEO of the Association of Southern African Travel Agents (Asata)
The South African Communist Party in the Western Cape says the suspension of three executives at state oil company PetroSA is long overdue. This comes after the oil giant suspended its top three executives allegedly due to poor performance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SACP's Western Cape provincial spokesperson, Masonwabe Sokoyi
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela talks about: Asian stocks advance to pare first monthly decline this year, Chinese stocks keeps making more billionaires, What to expect from the World economic Forum?
Nigerian president-elect Muhammadu Buhari is to be sworn in as the country's president today. Buhari, a retired general in the Nigerian Army, emerged victorious from the country's elections earlier this year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Martin Ewi, who is a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Security Studies.
Cosatu's Central Executive Committee has rejected the newly structured e-tolling system. The unions federation held a three day meeting in Johannesburg this week to also discuss issues of unity and cohesion within Cosatu. About seven Cosatu affiliated unions are still not attending the federation CEC meetings. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu President, Sdumo Dlamini
Market analysis with Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank capital: Chinese stocks slump by over 7% in two days, ECB warns over shadow banking while IMF may extend Greek terms to the end of June, US jobless claims rise but eyes now on GDP revision data due out this afternoon
Various Muslim organisations and scholars in the country have joined forces warning against the Islamic State group ISIS. Today, imams in mosques across the country will deliver a 'national unified' khutbah (sermon) about ISIS, that will encourage Muslims to be wary of recruitment activities of the group in South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson for the various organisations Ebrahim Patel
The South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU) has raised concerns that wage negotiations with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) will collapse. This follows a disagreement over a new performance based system. SAMWU accuses SALGA of negotiating in bad faith. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SAMWU general secretary Walter Theledi and SA local government spokesperson, Tahir Sema
President Jacob Zuma has used his reply to the budget vote of the Presidency to chastise opposition MPs for their behaviour. The President says their behaviour is embarrassing for the country and he called on them to improve their level of participation. This follows the debate on the speech he delivered on Tuesday where he was severely criticised by opposition parties on government's performance. Joseph Mosia reports
The Department of Education has issued revised regulations governing matric exams. The proposed amendments which are published for public comment, are meant to curb cheating and improve the way tests are administered. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Basic Education Department spokesperson, Elijah Mahlangu.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at, Asian stocks dropped, following a decline in U.S. equities, after better-than-estimated economic data bolstered the case for higher interest rates, South Africa lifted its 2015 maize output by 0.8% to 9.84 million tonnes due to better-than-expected yield survey results and in the developing world, the poorest workers rarely benefit from minimum wage increases, and they may even pay a price
The United Council of the Nguni Youth, INJEJE yamaNGUNI, is releasing to the public a list of personal contact details for politicians. The organisation says if politicians claim to represent the public, then the public should be able to contact them directly. The head of research at INJEJE yamaNGUNI, Thabiso Zulu now joins us on the line to discuss the campaign of releasing and distributing the cell-phone numbers of all politicians
The Commission for Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities says it intends to take the local government authorities to court over the re-use of graves. The commission says it wants to seek relief for communities who are unhappy at the re-use of the graves of their loved ones without their consent. The practice is reportedly to be rife in the Ethekhwini Metro. To discuss this matter further we're now joined on the line by the Commission chairwoman Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva
Today Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank Capital looks at South Africa's disappointing GDP numbers, Unemployment in SA surges higher and the US data spurs stronger dollar and weaker equity markets
Community in the mining areas say companies and government and government are deliberately ignoring their interests. Sakina speaks toChris Rutledge of Action Aid
EFF Member in the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Ayanda Tshabalala, has resigned from the party. In her resignation statement, Tshabalala accuses party president Julius Malema of destroying the party and turning it into an unrecognizable, treacherous, ugly formation, Sakina speaks to Ayanda Tshabalala and EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi
Health Minister, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, has refuted media reports about drug shortages in the country. Last week a patient from Esigodini Clinic in KwaZulu Natal claimed in the media she did not receive her antiretroviral medicines and that many patients were being turned away. The patient said this because of widespread shortage of medicines in public health facilities.
Marikana miners are threatening to take President Jacob Zuma to court after he failed to meet yesterday's deadline to make the Marikana report public. Andries Nkome, legal representative for the miners, says delaying the release of the report violates the constitutional rights of affected miners. Sakina speaks to Andries Nkome
Asian markets update with our resident market analyst Clive Ramathibela : Asian stocks rose, with the regional benchmark index paring its weekly drop, after U.S. shares rose to records as mixed economic data fuelled bets the Federal Reserve won't rush to raise interest rates, the Bank of Japan refrained from increasing monetary stimulus and signalled a more optimistic view on the economy and this Year's Summer Box Office Could Be the Largest Ever
Water and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane says her department is working at innovative ways to introduce low or no-water solutions for flush toilets. Mokonyane says the new plans aim of eliminate the use of clean water to flush toilets. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister Mokonyane....
The South African Police Service has introduced a re-enlisting process, where former members will be re-employed in lower positions. National Commissioner General Riah Phiyega says former members will be employed at ranks not higher than lieutenant‚ regardless of the rank they held when they left the Police Service. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to police spokesperson Colonel Vishnu Naidoo and President of the South African Policing Union (SAPU), Mpho Kwinika
Local markets update with strategist at ETF, Nerina Visser : There was no surprise in the interest rate decision from the MPC yesterday, One unlisted company that made it into the news yesterday was De Beers, the diamond mining giant and Minister Rob Davies announced plans to create a 26-nation free trade area in Africa. Can you tell us more?
South Africa is not ready for digital migration. The Communications Minister, Faith Muthambi told parliament that the June 17 deadline for the much anticipated switch from analogue to digital broadcasting will not be met. The deadline was set by the International Telecommunication Union. To unpack the implications of South Africa missing next month's deadline of digital migration. WSakina Kamwendo spoke to Alistair Fairweather, Chief Technology Officer at Machine- a technology advertising agency
As South Africans are getting used to load shedding, the country is on the brink of another crisis, this time around water. South Africa is the 30th-driest nation on earth and government expects water demand to outstrip supply as early as 2025. To discuss this further Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Department of Water Affairs spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau,
Gauteng motorists will in future first have to pay e-tolls before they can renew their car license discs. And those who do not register for their e-toll tags will pay double to cover the administrative costs of getting them onto the system. This means they will not be able to benefit from the up to 50 percent reduction in fees announced by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa under the new e-toll dispensation. sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu President Sdumo Dlamini.
· Government made quite a big splash of their e-toll press conference yesterday - potential political implications aside, what impact will this have on government finances? · Yesterday consumer inflation for April came in as expected, at 4.5%, and this afternoon the MPC will announce their interest rate decision. What should we expect? · Another central bank that we watch very closely is the US Fed. Last night they released the minutes from their meeting late in April. Did this give any further insight into the timing of an interest rate increase in the US?
Former boxing champion Dingaan Thobela, has been arrested and granted bail for allegedly failing to register his funeral parlour as a financial service provider. According to law, all companies that render financial services are required to comply with the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy Executive Officer of the Financial Services Board (FSB), Caroline Da Silva.
Portia Modise is South Africa's most successful soccer player. She's the most capped female player and the top goal scorer. he 31-year-old striker joined the national team debut in 2000 and has sinced scored more than 100 goals for Banyana. She scored her 100th goal against Algeria at the CAF African Women's Championship in 2014.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at; 1. Asian stocks rose, with a weaker yen boosting Japanese shares, after data showing U.S. housing starts surged to a seven-year high strengthened the case for an interest-rate increase this year
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Japan's economy expanded for a second straight quarter, beating forecasts as businesses increased spending and built up inventories after a recession last year
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"The Internet of Things" concept growing very fast in affluent America
Independent ETF Strategist and Advisor Nerina Visser looks at the Competition Commission has launched an investigation into manipulation of the Rand, News came out late last night that a wage settlement has finally been reached in the public sector. Will this have any impact on the SARB interest rate decision? Commodity prices and the Resources sector on the JSE really came under pressure yesterday. By contrast, European stock markets rose sharply
The Western Cape Government says it's satisfied with its drug treatment programme in various areas on the Cape Flats. The provincial Social Development Department says it spends 94-million rand a year to combat substance abuse. Minister Albert Fritz, visited a treatment facility in Mitchell's Plain to reflect on the success of the programme. Corbin August reports
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela talks Asian market and Australia’s central bank indicated it retains the option to ease policy if needed after cutting interest rates two weeks ago.
Political Analyst and researcher at the Helen Suzman Foundation Aubrey Matshiqi believes that the appointment of SA Football Association President, Danny Jordaan as the new Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, is either a masterstroke or a stunt by the ANC.
Independent ETF Strategist and Advisor. Market commentator Nerina Visser looks at the Greece bailout deal needed by end of May and US markets make new highs but JSE is driven by company results Vodacom
Asian stocks rise for a 2nd day and Top 10 of the most deadliest Jobs in the World continue to increase in revenue and staff!
Equal Education's independent audit on sanitation at a 200 Gauteng schools revealed almost a third had over 100 learners for a single toilet. The data was handed over to Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi at a Schools Social Audit Summit. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi
President Jacob Zuma and his Kenyan counterpart, Uhuru Kenyatta have vowed to increase contact between the two countries. The two met in Pretoria when President Kenyatta paid a courtesy call to president Zuma last night. Kenyatta is in the country to address the opening of the 6th Session of the Pan African Parliament at Midrand in Gauteng. The recent political instability in Burundi caused by president Pierre Nkurunziza's intention to stand for a third term, was also discussed. Zuma says they are concerned about the situation in that country.
Nerina Visser Strategist and Advisor at ETFSA looks at the mining industry is about to embark on wage negotiations, and already it seems as if we should prepare for some tense interactions and the unbundling of South 32 from BHP Billiton was approved by shareholders recently and the listing of South 32 is effective from the start of trading today
ANC National Working Committee will be back in the Nelson Mandela Bay metro today to present their intervention plan for the troubled municipality. This follows after the NWC, led by president Jacob Zuma, was presented with a much anticipated report on the state of the municipality by the task team appointed to rectify the divisions within the party in the region. A restructuring of the municipal leadership is also expected to be announced by the NWC. Mzukisi Solani reports
Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly gives an update of what' happening in the country's mining sector. Talking about South Africa’s famous Cullinan diamond mine which is about to receive a massive new cash injection , momentum towards large-scale supply of electricity and microdotting.
Investment Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at developments in Shale gas and increase in Mining Production year on year.
President Jacob Zuma has defended Operation Feela that has come under scrutiny from human rights activists. The nation wide operation has seen hundreds of undocumented foreign nationals arrested. The president was in the National Council of Provinces for his first oral reply session this year. SABC's Presidential Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo reports.
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that political instability and violence in Burundi could spill over into the region, as people flee the country.
Serious concerned have been raised that South Africa's tax laws have not kept pace with the continuously changing technological world and, in particular digitalised avenues of trade, retail and financial transactions. There are many products and services which are traded online, but on which VAT is not paid by multi-national corporations. The country has lost billions of Rand in tax revenue from these transactions. For more on this matter we're now joined on the line by the Associate Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers Matt Besanko.
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela, looks at Asian stocks declined after weaker-than-forecast U.S. retail sales fuelled concern about growth in the world’s largest economy, the Tencent Holdings profit rose to a record as Asia’s second-largest Internet company tapped surging demand for smartphone games with new titles that appeal to hard-core players and this Thursday Investment Theme is “SABMiller profit hit by strong dollar”.
Analyst at 27 Four Investment Managers Nadir Thokan looks at Ratings agency Moody's slamming the dismal SA growth, mining data coming out today and news going around that South Africa is considering either partially privatising Eskom or putting up some of its assets for sale - your comment?
Africa Analyst and Senior Lecturer at Wits School of Governance, Koffi Kouakou says some African leaders like Pierre Nkurunziza have greed and thirst for power, ignoring the consequences of being in power for too long.
The Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Gugile Nkwinti, has proposed limits on farm land ownership. During his budget vote speech, the Minister said small, medium and large-scale farmers would only be allowed to own 1,000, 2,500 and 5,000 hectares of land respectively. Meanwhile, the African Farmers Association of South Africa says the minister's proposal caught them by surprise. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Aggrey Mahanjana, Secretary General of the African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA)
- Asian stocks fell for a second day after a retreat in global equities as concern mounts over the selloff in bonds
- Emerging-market currencies strengthened before Chinese data on retail sales and industrial production
- Audi Edges Ahead of BMW to Lead Luxury-Car Sales Race in April
Minister of Mineral Resources Ngoako Ramatlhodi has expressed concerns at the rate of retrenchments in the mining industry. The Minister of Mineral Resources Ngoako Ramatlhodi is said to be seeking an urgent meeting with unions and employers over job cuts in the mining industry. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to his Special Advisor, Advocate Mahlodi Moufhe
Parliament will appeal the judgement by the High Court in Cape Town that found section 11 of the Powers Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act, invalid. The DA successfully challenged the Act in court. It deals with the removal and arrest of a disruptive MP from the chamber if instructed by the presiding officer to do so. Sakina spoke to Constitutional & Public Law Expert, Professor Marinus Wiechers.
The South African government has again been criticized for arresting suspected illegal immigrants. The Coalition of Movements Against Xenophobia says the raids were a heavy-handed response that have seen families separated and has led to various human rights abuses. In the latest raid, about 400 immigrants were arrested last Friday in an operation at the Central Methodist Church, a well-known shelter for refugees in downtown Johannesburg. To discuss the matter further Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Steve Faulkner, of the Coalition of Movements Against Xenophobia and spokesperson for the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, Pumla Williams
SAB Miller results coming out today Euro zone GDP data coming out today ** CISCO systems earnings coming out today
Economic Development Minister Ibrahim Patel says the Industrial Development Corporation will set aside 23-billion rand over the next five years to promote the development of black industrialists. Minister Patel says this is intended to support companies owned and controlled by black South Africans, and also to bring them into the mainstream of the economy. The Minister presented his department's budget vote in parliament yesterday, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him ....
The Cypriot, George Louka, who allegedly killed Teazers boss Lolly Jackson, died last night due to stage four lung cancer. Louka was extradited last year to stand trial in South Africa. He however applied for medical parole in April, but this was turned down. Jacques Steenkamp reports
ANC stalwart Ruth Mompati has died at the age of 89. She worked for Mandela and Tambo Attorneys in the 1950s and became a member of the ANC Women's League's NEC.
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Newly elected DA leader, Musi Maimane says if we were to live by what critics, he would never wake up. Maimane was elected leader by an overwhelming margin at the party's congress in Port Elizabeth to succeed Helen Zille
Family Policy Institute says its shocked at reports that government intends to give schoolchildren as young as 10 condoms. This is a move to teach sex education in schools. The proposals, reportedly gazetted this week, involve offering male and female pupils condoms from grades 7-12. To discuss the matter further Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Executive Officer of Family Policy Institute, Errol Naidoo.
Corporate cash balances in the US and how that can unlock growth... Tesla's new powerwall battery and its implication for power generation
- Asian Stocks Climb From One-Month Low Before U.S. Jobs Report
- China's Competitiveness Slides, Biting Into Exports
- The pound rallies on speculation of the Tory's to stay in power
- There's a new Baba at Alibaba and shares like him!
Following the xenophobic violence that plagued Durban in recent weeks, King Goodwill Zwelithini has proposed that traditional leaders must follow guidelines when receiving foreigners to live in their areas. Suggested last week, the King proposes that foreigners who wanted to settle in an area should have the right documents and be introduced to traditional leaders and the king, accompanied by their countries' ambassadors. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Inkosi Themba Mavundla, Executive member of the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Professor Pierre de Vos, Constitutional Court Expert…
A new school certificate is on the cards for those pupils who are unable or unwilling to complete grade 12. The General Education and Training Certificate allows Grade 9 school leavers to go on to study at a Technical Vocational Education and Training college. The department says the exit certificate will serve as as an alternative to University, and would address unemployment and skills shortage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Matanzima Mweli, the Acting Deputy Director General of Curriculum Policy Support at the Department of Basic Education…
Massive sell off in SA equities yesterday. Chinese trade numbers disappoint this morning ** Oil slumps... In contrast to a sharp rally at the start of the week
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Global markets update with market analyst Clive Ramathibela: Asian stocks head for a 1 month low as trading reopens in Japan, Australian employers cut jobs in April hence jobless rate rises and Thursday investment theme - unit trust investments
A train was set alight on the Umlazi route, south of Durban. Angry commuters are suspected to have torched the train after it broke down near Isipingo. Seven coaches were destroyed in the blaze. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to PRASA spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Zama Nomnganga
Eskom says residents of Orlando West in Soweto must understand that the national energy regulator NERSA is the one that determines electricity tariffs, not the power utility. The residents embarked on protest action yesterday, against what they called high electricity tariffs. They are demanding a flat rate of between 250-rand and 400-rand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe...
Economics update with Mohammed Nalla at Nedbank Capital: Global equity sell off continues led by china, US private sector job creation slows and Consumer confidence slumps locally
Violent protests followed the decision by Burundi's Constitutional court to allow President Pierre Nkurunziza to run for a third term. Nkurunziza's defence team argued that while presidents can only be elected to two terms in office, Nkurunziza's term does not count as he was appointed by parliament. Reports coming out of the country suggest that some of the constitutional court judges were pressured to make the decision. Sakina kamwendo spoke to local CCTV journalist, Jane Kio…
Residents of Orlando west in Soweto have embarked on a service delivery protest. They have blockaded roads in the area. Police are trying to establish order. To get more information Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police Spokesperson at the scene Katleho Mokgale...
Pregnant firefighters losing months of pay and a lack of permanent jobs are some of issues at the heart of the SA Municipal Workers Union strike action. The strike action continues for a third day. SAMWU members have been picketing at 12 sites across the Western Cape since Monday. The action now culminates with march through the city of Cape Town today. The city was unable to avert strike action despite talks for more than a year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke SAMWU's regional secretary Mikel Khumalo…
Displaced foreign nationals who are housed at the Isipingo temporary shelter have agreed to be moved to the Chatsworth centre, which is the last remaining camp in Durban. They had refused to be moved when officials from the eThekwini municipality wanted to shutdown the Isipingo shelter last week. Government reached an agreement with their representatives last night on their relocation after assuring them that they'll continue to provide social and other essential services in Chatsworth. Sakina kamwendo spoke to Daniel Dunia, a foreign national who co-ordinated the Isipingo shelter…
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
The ANC in Port Elizabeth's Nelson Mandela Bay Metro has come under fire regarding allegations of corruption and poor governance. When the ANC's top six officials arrived in Port Elizabeth at the weekend, some critics predicted a leadership reshuffle. However, this didn't happen. Instead, during a media briefing on Monday, ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe said a plan to strengthen the metro both politically and administratively would come into effect. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa…
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela speaks to Sakina Kamwendo about, Chinese stocks slipped as concern that recent gains may have been excessive tempered speculation that policy makers will boost monetary stimulus, Indonesia’s economy unexpectedly shrank last quarter as exports slumped and South African born billionaire and Tesla CEO announces a game changer in energy supply for households
Comair is challenging government's bailout of SA Airways at the Pretoria High Court today. The British Airways franchise partner and Kulula.Com operator launched the court challenge in February 2013 following government's then bailout of five billion rand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Comair CEO Eric Venter
Wits University's Vice Chancellor, Professor Adam Habib, has removed Student Representative Council President Mcebo Dlamini from office. Habib says Dlamini's comments about Adolf Hitler are still being investigated and has nothing to do with the issue at hand. Dlamini claims he was removed from his position only because he'd given into pressure from what he called, Zionists. Habib has already condemned Dlamini's social media post about his admiration for Hitler. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Adam Habib
Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank Capital talks about South Africa's manufacturing index declines to four-year lows in April, New vehicle sales dip in April and Australia's central bank cuts rates to historic low
Member of the International Women Forum and Partner at EY Mokgadi Machaba-Abiodun speaks to Sakina about US Secretary of State John Kerry visit to Kenya for talks on security cooperation and ahead of US President Barack Obama's visit to his late father's home country and the role of women in making a difference in the Economy- purpose led transformation.
The Unites States and the European Union have praised South Africa's aviation regulatory system on aviation and cargo security. This will see South Africa leading discussions of the United Nation's aviation agency. Director of the South African Civil Aviation Authority, Poppy Khoza, has been appointed Chairperson of this international panel. She spoke to Sakina Kamwendo ...
Asian markets update with our market analyst Clive Ramathibela : Asian stocks pared their biggest monthly advance since 2013 and the region's bonds retreated after the Federal Reserve downplayed weak U.S. growth and kept open the prospect of interest-rate increases, China's big five banks are at risk of their weakest full-year profit growth since at least 2004 after first-quarter results showed bad loans rising in a struggling economy, Thursday Investment Destination : South Africa Looks to Middle East, Asia as New Corn Markets and the true cost of the biggest fight of the century - Mayweather vs Pacquiao!
Eskom has reached payment agreements with ten out of 20 defaulting municipalities, after the power supplier threatened to begin power cuts in June. Eskom says electricity supplies of municipalities that have entered into a payment agreement with the utility will not be interrupted. On April 10, The power utility announced plans to interrupt bulk electricity supply to the defaulting municipalities which owe the utility almost four billion rand. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe
ETF SA strategist Nerina Visser talks to us about the US GDP slowing in the 1st quarter, a bounce in SA's resources sector over the last few trading sessions, and Diplomatic relations in Africa have taken strain in the aftermath of the Xenophobic violence, should we be concerned that this spills over and damage economic relationships?
Scores of people have been arrested during a raid in Thembelihle - south of Johannesburg. Drugs and weapons have also been seized. The raid which began in the early hours of this morning is being carried out by the police, the army and home affairs personnel. Police say Thembelihle has been identified as one of the hotspots for violent crime Sakina Kamwendo spoke to police spokesperson Kay Makhubela
- Asian shares outside Japan rose, extending a seven-year high, following an advance for U.S. equities as investors await the outcome of a two-day Federal Reserve policy meeting
- Samsung Predicts Recovery After First-Quarter Earnings Drop 40%
- Twitter Reports Weak Earnings and the Stock Is Crashing
A government-appointed investigation, headed by Judge Frank Kroon, has found that SARS did not have the statutory authority to covertly gather intelligence, and that the rogue unit has harmed the public's confidence. SARS has since disbanded the so-called rogue unit. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Luther Lebelo, Executive Employee for Relations at SARS and DA Shadow Minister of Finance, Dion George.
Activists and unionists have launched a report accusing the country's intelligence community of monitoring and harassing them. The organisations include Numsa, Right to Know, Thembelihle Crisis committee and the United Front. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to State Security Agency Spokesperson, Brian Dube
What is the latest news from Greece - I understand there has been a change in the Greek negotiating team? Has someone actually blinked in the game of chicken? The Fed concludes its two day policy meeting later today - what do you expect from the US central bank? ** We've had so much bad news on the domestic front in recent weeks - Xenophobia, load shedding, threat of ratings downgrade to name but a few. Please tell me you've got a good news story to put this day on a positive note!
Please call me on my landline: 011 782 1458
OUTRO: THAT WAS NERINA VISSER, STRATEGIST AT ETF SA
Metrorail has confirmed that 240 people were injured - two in a critical condition - when a train travelling from Pretoria collided with another yesterday at Denver station. One person is reported dead, and the cause of the accident is still unknown. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for Gauteng Metrorail, Lillian Mofokeng.
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at: 1. Asian stocks outside Japan fell from a seven-year high, while oil retreated
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Apple Inc.'s iPhone is reeling in buyers in China, sending quarterly profit up by 33 percent
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What to expect of the JSE after the public holiday
Limpopo schools will receive less government subsidies this year. The suggested government subsidy of about R1116 for each pupil enrolled will now be R323 per child for Limpopo's quintile 4 and 5 schools. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to acting MEC for education in Limpopo Jerry Ndou …
The death toll is reported to have exceeded 4000, as rescue operation continues in Nepal as a result of the massive earthquake that took place on Saturday. Rescue teams are still trying to reach many remote and mountainous areas, amid reports that some villages have been completely destroyed. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent in India, Rana Sen and Seismologist and Professor at the University of Pretoria, Prof Andre Kijko.
President Jacob Zuma took a swipe at unruly behaviour in South Africa, saying there was need to do more to promote healing and tolerance amongst South Africans. But the president warned that there was a lot of anger in South Africa coupled with a propensity to use violence, adding that this was the results of years of apartheid dehumanisation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni.
Strategist at ETF SA Nerina Visser talks about: The probability of a Greek debt default is rising every day, but apparently that does not necessarily mean that Greece will be kicked out of the Eurozone · Japan's credit rating has been cut one notch by Fitch · Domestic markets today...
South Africa will not withdraw its high commissioner in Nigeria to reciprocate Nigeria's decision to recall its acting High Commissioner Martin Cobham and Deputy High Commissioner Uche Ajulu-Okeke. The statement by Nigeria's Foreign Affairs Ministry states that the action, which is the strongest form of protest short of cutting diplomatic ties, is in connection with the on-going xenophobia in South Africa targeting foreigners, mainly African migrants. For more details Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Clayson Monyela , spokesperson for the department of international relations and cooperation, DIRCO. Meanwhile, in Malawi, there have been protests at shops owned by South Africans. Malawians have demanded their immediate closure, following the recent xenophophic attacks in South Africa and our correspondent in Malawi, George Mhango tell us more
The 27th of April marks the day that South Africa had its first democratic elections in 1994. Twenty one years have passed and many changes have taken place in the country. What does Freedom Day mean to the ordinary South African? If anything. SABC reporter Amanda Coetzee spoke to a few residents of the Lowveld Area in Mpumalanga. .....
- Asian stocks rose, with the regional benchmark index set to post a fourth straight weekly advance
- The Bank of Japan helped push yields on government notes below zero this week for the first time since January before monetary officials set policy on April 30 as they pursue an elusive 2 percent inflation target
- China has released online a so-called Rogue's gallery of the top 100 corruption suspects believed to have fled abroad with millions of dollars
The appeal case by the Chief Operating Officer of the SABC, Hlaudi Motsoeneng, is to be heard by a full bench of judges. This, following the Western Cape High court ruling yesterday, that Motsoeneng be suspended and disciplinary action taken against him. Motsoeneng immediately appealed. On the line for more on this, we're joined by his lawyer Zola Majavu
Various leaders who took part in the anti-xenophobia march yesterday, are confident they have sent out a strong message that no form of discrimination will be tolerated in South Africa. The march, in solidarity with victims of xenophobia, was organised by civil society, religious and political groups. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chairman of the African Diaspora Forum, Marc Gbaffou, who was among the marchers yesterday
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has been denied a visa to travel to Palestine by the Israeli government. To get more details Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson from the department of Higher Education and Training , Khaye Nkwanyana ...
The rand recouped earlier losses against the dollar yesterday after weak U.S. data pointed to sluggish growth tell us more about that? The Nasdaq Composite closed at an all-time high yesterday , surpassing a 2000 record set just before the dotcom crash. **And a wrap of the week... We spoke about US corporate earnings during the start of the week how is that looking?
Economics news with market analyst Clive Ramathibela: Chinese flash PMI numbers for April down 49.4 percent, Struggle with Australia's currency and Thursday destination: Nigeria
Eskom has again blamed the delay in the completion of the Medupi power station on frequent labour disputes between contractors and their employees. About 14-thousand workers have been strike at the power station in Lephalale, Limpopo, for the past four weeks. Medupi was originally meant to be on the grid by thsi year, but Eskom said yesterday it might only be fully operational by 2021. As Eskom struggles to keep the lights on, spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe says strikes and go-slows by workers is an issue beyond their control. He spoke to Sakina Kamwendo ...
Transport Minister Dipuo Peters has called on the Taxi industry to assist government in curbing xenophobia. Peters says the fact that taxis transport about 69% of commuters, making the industry a perfect platform to convey the messages as they drive through the country. Sakina Kamendo spoke to South African National Taxi Council president, Philip Taaibosch.
Economic news with Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank Capital : South Africa CPI up but below expectations, Luxury group Richemont post a profit warning and BHP Billiton cuts iron ore expansion
LIVE: AM LIVE INTERVIEW WITH SHOES MOSHOEU'S FRIEND AND BAFANA BAFANA TEAMMATE HELMAN MKHALELE ABOUT THE FORMER
The soccer fraternity has reacted with shock to the death of Former Bafana Bafana midfielder John "Shoes" Moshoeu. Moshoeu died yesterday after a long battle with cancer. He was part of a Bafana Bafana team that clinched the country's only Africa Cup of Nations title in 1996. To talk about the late Shoes Mosheu, we're now joined on the line by friend and former player, Helman Mkhalele...
LIVE: AM LIVE INTERVIEW WITH SHOES MOSHOEU'S FRIEND AND BAFANA BAFANA TEAMMATE HELMAN MKHALELE ABOUT THE FORMER
The soccer fraternity has reacted with shock to the death of Former Bafana Bafana midfielder John "Shoes" Moshoeu. Moshoeu died yesterday after a long battle with cancer. He was part of a Bafana Bafana team that clinched the country's only Africa Cup of Nations title in 1996. To talk about the late Shoes Mosheu, we're now joined on the line by friend and former player, Helman Mkhalele...
Former Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda was admitted to a Lusaka hospital yesterday. This is the second time this year, that Dr Kaunda has been admitted with his previous visit taking place in February. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent, George Mhango.
One institution that has done a lot of research with migrants is the African Centre for Migration & Society at Wits University. To give a perspective on the current and previous attacks of foreign nationals, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Centre's Associate Professor and Director, Ingrid Palmary
Police accompanied by soldiers raided the Jeppestown hostels in the Johannesburg CBD last night. Jeppestown is one of the areas in the country that have been hit by xenophobic violence. Yesterday evening, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-nqakula assured a group of foreign nationals in Alexandra that they will be well safe now that she has deployed the soldiers. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Minister
The soccer fraternity has reacted with shock to the death of Former Bafana Bafana midfielder John "Shoes" Moshoeu. Moshoeu died yesterday after a long battle with cancer. He was part of a Bafana Bafana team that clinched the country's only Africa Cup of Nations title in 1996. sakina Kamwendo spoke to friend and former player, Helman Mkhalele...
The soccer fraternity has reacted with shock to the death of Former Bafana Bafana midfielder John "Shoes" Moshoeu. Moshoeu died yesterday after a long battle with cancer. He was part of a Bafana Bafana team that clinched the country's only Africa Cup of Nations title in 1996. To talk about the late Shoes Mosheou, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to friend and former player, Helman Mkhalele...
Pick n Pay's results came out exceeding market forecasts - tell us more ? Japan has recorded its first trade surplus since 2012 ? **All eyes on local inflation data today what can we expect?
The Independent Institute of Education has come up with an online verification system that will check if degrees are authentic. The Institute says all qualifications awarded by them will have a QR code which will be linked to an individual's academic records. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director of The Independent Institute of Education, Felicity Coughlan.
Market update with Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank Capital :
Dollar strength continues to push the rand weaker Oil prices have ticked higher but we still have a small over recovery on petrol ** Eskom remains front of mind in SA. Is there light at the end if the tunnel?
Eskom's newly appointed acting CEO Brian Molefe has promised to minimize load-shedding in the country. Molefe replaces Tshediso Matona, who's been suspended pending an inquiry into Eskom's problems. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Mr Molefe .....
With the latest on-going violence against foreign nationals, the Minister of Police Nathi Nhleko, has launched a Campaign against Afrophobia, which will focus on behavioural change. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the MInister...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Lungelo Dlamini
CHINESE STIMULUS HASNT HELPED CHINESE MARKETS GREECE STRUCTURAL REFORMS ** US CORPORATE EARNINGS
Industrials and miners push the JSE to new highs , Rand slightly former as dollar softens, and Oil hits 2015 high as US output slows: Sakina Kamwendo speaks to our resident market analyst Clive Ramathibela
Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba says there is no excuse for the current spate of xenophobic attacks. the Minister says people should take their grievances to government
More on Sakina Kamwendo's interview with Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba on xenophobia. Gigaba says there is no excuse for the current spate of xenophobic attacks. The Minister says people should take their grievances to government. Five people have been killed and many foreign nationals have fled their homes since the attacks started two weeks ago
Richard Branson of the Virgin Group is a regular visitor to South Africa, and yesterday he cashed in on a very lucrative investment here, the rise of China in world markets is a subject with which we are all too familiar, and Greece is back in the news. Nerina Visser, strategist at ETF SA with more analysis ...
Asian markets update with market analyst Clive Ramathibela: Asian stocks rebound to 2008 high as material shares lead gains, the latest numbers from China show the government is facing huge challenge and Japan’s prisons are turning into nursing homes
Police say the situation in the Durban CBD, where foreigners came under attack is calm. Police spokesperson, Lieutenant-General Solomon Makgale, says police are still deployed, but no new incidents of xenophobic attacks have been reported. He says the violence have spread to other parts of KwaZulu-Natal
President Jacob Zuma has expressed outrage at the upsurge of xenophobic attacks in the country. Five people have been killed in attacks in Durban and surrounding townships and the violence has since spread to Pietermaritzburg and Howick. Foreign shop owners in the Johannesburg CBD closed their doors after receiving warning calls. Presidential Correspondents Tshepo Ikaneng and Mzwandile Mbeje spoke exclusively to President Zuma about the government's response to the rise of xenophobic attacks in the country.
A market update and economic news with Nerina Visser, Strategist at ETF SA: Old Mutual surprised the market yesterday with news of a management change right at the top, US stock markets rallied again last night and Tax Freedom Day in America
Asian stocks fell, with a regional benchmark index poised to snap its longest winning streak since December 2013,
China's Rally Is Pushing Its Companies Back Into the Rank of World's Largest Stocks and
US retail data misses estimates but still shows positivity
Violence erupted in the Durban CBD as foreign nationals retaliated when locals tried to loot their shops. Hundreds of people across the greater Ethekwini Municipality have been forced to flee over the past week, to escape attacks and looting. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to State Security Minister David Mahlobo and political analyst, Professor Somadoda Fikeni
An economics news update with ETF Strategist & Advisor Nerina Visser :
• The IMF has again downgraded its outlook for SA GDP – to just 2% – citing electricity shortages as the primary reason • The US earnings season and, • The world's central bankers and finance ministers gather in Washington this week for the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank
Market update with markets analyst Clive Ramathibela: Chinese stocks rally and surge the MSCI Asia Pacific index, Eskom woes continues as the workers down tools in support of fired contract workers at Medupi power plant, Rand drops by 1% as the Dollar strengths again major currencies
Malawian authorities say they are working to repatriate about 400 of their nationals who have been made homeless during a wave of anti-immigrant violence in Durban, South Africa. The Information Minister Kondwani Nankhumwa says that many have fled their homes with nothing. The Malawian authorities are organising temporary travel documents for those being driven from their homes and hope they will begin returning to Malawi by the end of the week. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to correspondent in Malawi, George Mhango
An update of economic news and markets with Nerina Visser, ETF Strategist & Advisor
• Naspers broke through R2000 per share intraday yesterday
• BHP Billiton recently announced plans to create a new global mining company called South32 through a demerger
An update of economic news and markets with Nerina Visser, ETF Strategist & Advisor: Naspers broke through R2000 per share intraday yesterday • BHP Billiton recently announced plans to create a new global mining company called South32 through a demerger
The EFF leader Julius Malema will have to wait until the first of June to know whether his provisional sequestration order is made final or scrapped by the North Gauteng High court. This is according to court papers filed by the South African Revenue Service (Sars). Malema has been accused by Sars, of lying about his source of income. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Malema's Lawyer, Tumi Mokwena.
Battle for the leadership of the DA has begun following Helen Zille's announcement that she will not stand for re-election at the party's elective congress slated for the 9th of May in Port Elizabeth.
- The Fed is focused & steady, the ECB is accommodative and generous, and markets are in celebratory mood - will Q1 results season in the US be the party pooper?
- If all of this is making you nervous, should you try to avoid a possible bear market, or just ride out the inevitable pullbacks?
- Helen on the way out, Hillary on the way in? It's a bit like Greece on the way out, Iran on the way in . But what does the progress with talks in Iran mean for the oil price?
OUTRO: That was Nerina Visser - Strategist at ETF SA
- Japanese stocks swung between gains and losses after the Nikkei 225 Stock Average briefly traded above 20,000 for the first time in 15 years
- China's benchmark money-market rate was set to drop for a sixth week, the longest run of declines in six years
- If history is anything to go by, the Shell Company by out of BG group could signal that oil has bottomed out and it's about to gain momentum
The statue of British colonialist, Cecil John Rhodes has been removed from its prime location at the University of Cape Town's upper campus. The statue sat perched on his plinth for 81 years overlooking the greater Cape Town area. Its removal came following an intense month-long campaign by university students calling for transformation of the University. The UCT council voted overwhelmingly to remove the statue to a safe place while Heritage Western Cape makes a final decision on its fate. Meanwhile, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa was quoted as saying the ANC government could have done more since 1994, and they could have acted much quicker. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Vuyo Jack, Acting Director-General at the Department of Arts and Culture
South Africa's business confidence index fell to a 3-month low China's inflation data for March out this morning Tencent valuation vs Facebook valuation
The latest Easter weekend road fatality statistics indicate that the number of people who died on South African roads has increased by almost 50 percent to 287. Transport Minister Dipuo Peters says government will put stringent and robust measures in place to stop road carnage. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Department of Transport spokesperson, Tiyani Rikhotso.
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at Japanese stocks up with Topix at its highest since 2007, Chinese stocks also up following FED minutes, Eskom to receive capital from Germany and Thursday investment comment - ETF
Market update with Nadir Thokan, analyst at 27Four investment managers: U.S. Fed Reserve minutes indicate the central bank remains on track for a interest rate hike this year and the impact of load shedding in South Africa in numbers
Asian markets in the highest levels in nine months, Greek demands money from the Eurozone and Germany, and the bank of Japan optimistic about the stimulus and the Japanese economy
The Muslim Judicial Council will this morning hold an urgent meeting with its clergy to discuss the dangers of young people falling victim to the propaganda of the Islamic State militants. This comes after a 15-year-old girl from Cape Town was taken off a plane bound for Johannesburg. Police suspect that she was on her way to join IS. The Muslim community in Cape Town has expressed concern over the young people's exposure to the Internet. The State Security Department says cyber technology provides a huge platform for extremist organisations to recruit young people. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the council's spokesperson Nabeweya Malick..
** Foreign ownership on the JSE and how its evolved over time
** Minutes of FOMC ( Federal Open Market Committee) meeting to be released tonight
** Real impact of power constraints on the SA economy
State arms company, Denel says it's going to court this morning to get an urgent interdict for the eviction a group of people from continuing to illegally invade part of its land in Khayelitsh on the Cape Flats. The EFF is reported to be leading the group. Denel has laid criminal charges against the alleged illegal land invader. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to spokesperson Vuyelwa Qinga...
Kenya's tourist trade is reportedly hit hard by the cancellation of trips to Kenya by tourists. This follows last week's killings of 148 people at Garissa University. sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of Kenya Coast Tourism Association, Mohammed Hersi.
The destruction of heritage monuments such as the Cecil John Rhodes statue at the University of Cape Town and the Paul Kruger statue in Pretoria has sparked widespread debates in the country about their relevance. Various political parties have expressed their views. While others feel that the monuments reminder of the apartheid era, other feel that that they are part of our history and cannot be done away with. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Democratic Alliance's spokesperson Phumzile van Damme, ANC National Spokesperson Zizi Kodwa as well as EFF Spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.....
South African authorities are investigating how a 15-year-old Cape Town girl almost joined the Islamic State. The girl was intercepted by authorities as she attempted to make her way to Saudi Arabia. State Security minister David Mahlobo says documents have been found in the girl's room, suggesting that she had been recruited by Isis. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister of State Security David Mahlobo.
Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Senior Researcher on International Crime in Africa Programme Institute for Security Studies, Annelie Botha, who has been doing research on recruitment of young girls by groups such as Islamic State .
With only three hundred meters of allocated land, Mpenjati nude beach in Trafalgar, on the lower south Coast of KwaZulu Natal, is the only official nudist beach in the country. It has attracted people from all over the world. Meanwhile, unhappy residents have called the police to arrest the naturists. Chairman of the KZN Naturist Association, Christo Bothma spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
The SANDF has defended its decision to acquire new VIP jets for President Jacob Zuma and his cabinet. Government officials will have at least three new VIP jets for international commitments before the end of the year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to defence analyst Helmut Rohmer-Heitman
The Kenyan government has named Mohamed Mohamud as the mastermind behind the gruesome Garissa University hostage attack. Meanwhile threats of more violent attacks looms after Al Shabab militants released a public statement promising more violent attacks. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our correspondent in Kenya Sarah Kimani
Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu PF party has expelled former vice president Joice Mujuru, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our our correspondent in Zimbabwe Shingai Nyoka
Transport Minister Dipuo Peters has introduced a new law that requires children under the age of three to be strapped into a car seat when travelling in a car. Arrive Alive Research Data and Statistics indicate that seat belts reduce the chances of being killed by 40 to 50 percent for drivers and passengers in the front-seat, and by about 25 percent for passengers in the back seat. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Spokesperson for the Department of Transport, Tiyani Rikhotso.
As thousands of motorists are preparing to take to the roads for the Easter long-weekend, the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) has declared a strike against PT Operations, the company contracted to operate certain highway toll gates on the N1 and N2. Satawu members are demanding an increase in wages and free transport to work among other things. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Liam Clarke, Commercial manager of the Bakwena N1, N4 toll road
- Asian stocks rose for the first time in six days, with industrial shares leading gains
- Japanese New Pension regulations causes industrial action in major towns
- India extends deadline to corporates to increase the directorship of women in their companies
- Thursdays Investment Tip: “Easter Weekend Trends”
Cape Town motorists are expected to pay almost three times more for their e-tolls than those in Gauteng. This is if the South African National Roads Agency's Winelands' N1 and N2 e-toll project goes ahead. Chairperson of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Peter Hugo says he is concerned about the findings in the processes of this tender procurement….Sakina Kamwendo spoke to him and Sanral's spokesperson Vusi Mona.....
With Eskom facing a myriad of challenges which include a management crisis, lack of capacity, and maintenance backlogs, the one person most South Africans would like to hear from now, is the person in charge of the power utility's affairs - Minister of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Minister .
Traffic is expected to increase on major roads across the country from today ahead of the Easter weekend. The N1 north is expected to see heavy traffic as thousands of ZCC congregants head to Moria in Limpopo for the Easter service. The N3 to Kwazulu-Natal and the N4 to Mpumalanga are also expected to be heavily congested and will be monitored by traffic officials. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Simon Zwane, spokesperson for the Road Traffic Management Corporation.....
Supporters of Mohammadu Buhari are celebrating his victory in the presidential Nigerian election. Accepting defeat the outgoing president, Goodluck Jonathan, asked those unhappy with the result, to respect the constitutional process. Incoming Nigerian President, Mohammadu Buhari has commended Jonathan for conceding defeat. Buhari has called on Nigerians to put emotions aside and become one nation after a gruelling election campaign. Olufunto Akindiro, electoral and political processes expert with the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) spoke to Sakina Kamwendo from Abuja, Nigeria
Eskom's newly appointed acting chairperson, Ben Ngubane, has denied that his appointment was a political one. Ngubane was appointed after Zola Tsotsi agreed to step down as chairperson of the beleagured power utility's board. In the past month, Eskom CEO Tshediso Matona, and three executives were suspended and now Tsotsi has resigned leaving a leadership vacuum at the utility. Ngubane's reputation is also being questioned. He sat on the boards of the Landbank and the SABC previously. However, Ngubane is adamant that his appointment at Eskom has nothing to do with politics
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Asia Stocks Trim Best Quarter Since 2013 as Energy Shares Drop
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Japan's Industrial Output Drops, Adding to Signs of Weakness
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German Economy Finds New Fuel as It Reaps Benefits of QE
COSATU's central executive committee will decide on the fate of its embattled general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi when it holds its special meeting today. The meeting wanted to hear from Vavi why he boycotted the last meeting and his response to the forensic audit on the sale and purchase of the old and new COSATU buildings. Vavi decided to respond to the media - daring the CEC to fire him. He has extended his boycott of CEC meeting in solidarity with affiliates that have suspended their participation in COSATU in protest against NUMSA's expulsion. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Labour Analyst and Inside Labour columnist at Fin24 and City Press, Terry Bell
Eskom chairperson, Zola Tsotsi, says he is ready to make his presentation before the power utility's board at a meeting today. Eskom's board held a meeting last week in which Tsotsi's future was supposed to have been decided. The meeting was subsequently postponed to today. This followed Tsotsi's announcement of the suspension of four Eskom executives including CEO Tshediso Matona. Tsotsi says the Public Enterprises Minister, Lynne Brown would prefer someone else to head the board. He spoke to Dhashen Moodley ...
• US interest rate outlook. • The Greek Banks are in the spot light again. • The million dollar question – What is the outlook for oil.
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- Asian stocks fell for a second day, adding to the biggest daily drop in almost two months, as industrial shares led declines
- South Africa's rand extended losses against the dollar following the MPC unchanged rates decision
- Google Agrees to Pay New CFO Ruth Porat $70 Million by 2016
Nigerians go to the polls on *tomorrow, whoever the electorate vote in has several challenges ranging from insecurity, corruption, high inflation and unemployement. One pressing need for the country's economy is electricity. Half of the country's population has no access to electricity and those who have it experience long black outs. At the moment, Africa's largest oil producer is facing an acute fuel shortage, which is crippling transport and businesses. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Professor Kealeboga Maphunye, WHIPOLD-Brigalia Bam Research Chair in Electoral Democracy at UNISA
RESERVE BANK MEETING YESTERDAY- WHAT WERE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS? US JOBLESS CLAIMS - MUCH BETTER THAN EXPECTED ** TODAY WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO US GDP DATA THAT WILL BE OUT THIS AFTERNOON AND WHY IS THAT IMPORTANT TO SOUTH AFRICA ?
Sandile Memela, spokesperson of the Department of Arts and Culture says the decision to remove the Rhodes statue cannot be decided by the University of Cape Town. Memela says the students are within rights to demand that the statue of Rhodes be be removed; however they as the department of Arts and Culture have received any formal request
Nigerians will be going to the polls to vote for a new president on Saturday, six weeks later than planned due to Boko Haram violence. The presidential and parliamentary polls are expected to be the most tightly contested since military rule ended in 1999. Incumbent Goodluck Jonathan, is bracing for a tight race against Muhammadu Buhari. The country has reportedly ordered the closure of all its land and sea borders ahead of this elections. Dhashen Moodley spoke to the Director of News at the Voice of Nigeria, Ahaziah Suleiman.
- Asian stocks retreated from an almost eight-month high, following a slump in U.S. equities, as materials and consumer shares led losses
- What will our Reserve bank consider when they announce the rates this afternoon
- Facebook Opens Up Messenger App to Developers and Businesses
- Thursday Investment Opportunity - Facebook
Workers at Medupi power station in Limpopo were expected to resume work this morning after downing tools yesterday (25thMarch-2015). Contract workers- majority affiliated to NUMSA downed tools, calling on ESKOM to respond to a set of demands by Friday (tomorrow). Dhashen Moodley spoke to Eskom's Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe....
Workers at Medupi power station in Limpopo were expected to resume work this morning after downing tools yesterday (25thMarch-2015). Contract workers- majority affiliated to NUMSA downed tools, calling on ESKOM to respond to a set of demands by Friday (tomorrow). Dhashen Moodley spoke to the Head of Collective Bargaining at Numsa, Steve Nhlapo.
Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson has been fired by the BBC. It follows an altercation with a producer but was the latest in a series of controversies. The move by the BBC not to renew his soon-to-end contract has upset Top Gear fanatics around the world. But as details of his sustained physical attack on a producer emerge, the BBC felt it had no choice. And police in Yorkshire - where the incident took place - say they may investigate. The show is one of the BBC's biggest assets as Catherine Drew reports from London.
WE SEE SAUDI ARABIA HAS INITIATED ATTACKS IN YEMEN , THAT CAUSED THE OIL PRICE TO SPIKE BY ATLEAST 5% YESTERDAY SARB MPC - WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THE RESERVE BANK TODAY ** NUMSA STRIKE AT MEDUPI, WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR THE ENERGY CRISIS DOMESTICALLY
The University of Cape Town (UCT) says multiple university stakeholders want the statue of Cecil John Rhodes to be taken down. Vice Chancellor, Max Price says he's been in discussions on the matter and most agree that the statue must be removed from is current location. Thandiswa Mawu reports....
ASIAN MARKETS STRUGGLING AGAIN FOR THE SECOND DAY AS MOMENTUM IS DRAGGED BY THE STRONG DOLLAR WALL STREET WOMEN HEADING TO SILICON VALLEY COULD NARROW THE GAP ** THE GROSS PROSPECT FOR THE US IMPROVE DUE TO CONSUMER CONFIDENCE
Residents in the western German town of Haltern, were shocked after hearing that 16 local high students and two teachers who had just spent a week on a Spanish exchange program were on German-wings Flight 9525, which crashed yesterday morning, into the French Alps. The school group was among the 150 people on board the plane. Meanwhile aviation experts say it is too early to speculate on what could be the cause of the crash of the German wings plane, and that the focus right now should be assisting victims and their families. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Aviation expert Karl Jansen and began by asking whether flying is still the safest mode of travel.
Independent Police Investigative Directorate ,IPID Head Robert Mcbride was suspended yesterday, following a notice of suspension that was served on him by Minister of Police, Nkosinathi Nlheko. An urgent interdict McBride sought last week, to prevent his suspension from Ipid, was struck off the roll in the High Court in Pretoria. It's all about the ongoing debacle surrounding an investigation into the rendition of five Zimbabwean. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Head of the Governance, Crime and Justice Division at the Institute for Security Studies, Gareth Newham
Twenty percent. This is the average score of Maths teachers in some Free State schools. Development organisation Kagiso Trust has been testing hundreds of teachers as part of their intervention programme. Now the department of basic education is going to be following suit as their 1 plus 4 project finally kicks off. Senior Education Reporter Angela Bolowana has more details ....
US INFLATION CAME OUT HIGHER THAN EXPECTED , THIS IS LEADING TO MORE SPECULATION IN THE MARKET ABOUT WHAT THE US FED IS GOING TO DO, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR US? BRAZIL SCALING BACK SUPPORT FOR ITS CURRENCY ** SOUTH AFRICAN LEADING INDICATOR CAME OUT YESTERDAY ,WHAT DOES THIS TELL US ABOUT THE HEALTH OF THE DOMESTIC ECONOMY
- Most Asian stocks fell, following a drop in U.S. equities, as industrial companies declined
- A Chinese manufacturing gauge fell to an 11-month low in March, suggesting more stimulus may be needed to bolster factories
- German Chancellor Angela Merkel encouraged Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to follow the path set out by Greece's creditors
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
To mark World TB Day today, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will launch a massive National TB Screening and testing Campaign in the North West Province. South Africa is one of the countries with the highest burden of TB in the world. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Minister Motsoaledi
A strongly worded ruling by judge Elias Matojane in the High Court in Pretoria yesterday, found that the Head of Gauteng Hawks, Shadrack Sibiya can go back to work. The judge dismissed the acting Hawks head Berning Ntlemeza's application for leave to appeal an earlier ruling that set aside Sibiya's suspension. The court found that Sibiya's suspension was unconstitutional as Ntlemeza does not have powers to suspend him. Sibiya was suspended in January this year, for his alleged role in the illegal rendition of Zimbabwean suspects in 2010. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Spokesperson for the HAWKS, Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) has criticised Eskom's proposed electricity tariff hike, saying the increase is unjustified. Effective from the first of April, consumers who get their electricity directly from Eskom will pay 12.69 percent more. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cosatu Spokesperson, Patrick Craven....
Asian markets edge higher ahead of data week D-Day for Tsipras and Greece as they prepare to meet Angela Merkel ** What to expect from rand this week
The long-awaited court application against the directors and managers of Aurora Empowerment Systems, starts this morning. And trade unions already say that justice should be done for the almost 5 300 former Pamodzi employees, many of whom have been left without a salary and surviving on donations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the General Secretary of Solidarity, Gideon du Plessis
Allegations are abound that the Speaker of the National Assembly, Baleka Mbete plans to censor the latest Nkandla report before it is presented before Parliament. AND now leader of the United Democratic Movement UDM, Bantu Holomisa, has reportedly written to Mbete stating that what she wants to do is flawed and may compromise the integrity of the House she presides over. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the UDM leader
About two hundred and fifty child soldiers, amongst them four girls have been released by the Sudanese armed group "The Cobra Faction". This comes after a successful peace deal between the faction and the Sudanese government. Another 400 child soldiers are expected to be released this week. Unicef together with the Sudanese government are working together to reintegrate the children back into communities. To tell us more about how they are assisting is Unicef's Communication Manager in South Sudan John Budd...
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
- Most Asian Stocks Retreat as Materials and Tech Shares Lead Drop
- The Greek Prime Minister Tsipras promises to speed up implementation of turn-around strategy
- AT&T Has to Pay $40 Million Because It Didn't Read Document
- Amazon Gets Drone Wish as U.S. Grants Experimental Permit
The University Of Cape Town (UCT) has been engulfed with anger, frustration and protests by its students, demanding transformation and the removal of the Cecil John Rhodes statue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, Dr Max Price and Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande.
· Futures close-out yesterday saw the biggest trading day ever on the JSE (over R41bn) - why such a particularly big trading day? · Quarterly index re-balancing will take place later today - what can we expect? · You've spoken much about "structural trades", share price movements resulting from non-fundamental supply and demand. What about the likes of Naspers, up more than 6% yesterday?
- Asian Stocks Head for 6-Month High as Bonds, Metals Rally
- So really what did the FED say about the state of US economy?
- Thursdays investment Option - Graaf Diamonds !
The Limpopo Executive Council has resolved that blue lights vehicles of the MEC's and the Premier should not exceed the 120 speed limit when dignitaries are travelling. This was revealed by the ANC provincial secretary Nocks Seabi during a media briefing on the preparations for the funeral of the late minister of public administration Collins Chabane in Polokwane yesterday. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC provincial secretary Nocks Seabi....
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured Parliament that the leadership and power generating challenges facing Eskom, are being addressed. During question time in parliament yesterday, Ramaphosa said that the war room which he leads, was busy appointing members to the energy council, which will advise government on the way to solve the country's energy crisis. They include former Eskom chairperson Bobby Godsell and former Spoornet CEO Dolly Mokgatle. Ramaphosa says once the enquiry into Eskom is finalised, a much clearer executive future will be determined. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Director at Groundwork and Member of friends of the Earth International Bobby Peek.
The suspension of the four Eskom executives, including the CEO Tsediso Matona, the attack on foreign nationals and racims, as well as termination of temporary workers are just some of the questions that Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has to face in the National Assembly. Lulama Matya reports.....
· Fed decision - so the word 'patient' was dropped - what does this mean for interest increases?
· SA CPI dropped to 3.9% in February - what does this mean for local interest rates?
· Today is the quarterly futures closeout on the JSE - what's in store for the trading day today?
OUTRO: NERINA VISSER , STRATEGIST AT ETF SOUTH AFRICA
- Asian Stocks Little Changed as Investors Await Fed Statement
- South Africa's current account deficit narrowed in the final quarter of 2014, although the economy and the rand remain vulnerable to shocks caused by capital outflows
- ETF fast becoming the new norm for asset managers?
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed victory in Israel's parliamentary election. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Executive Director of the Afro-Middle East Centre (AMEC), Na'eem Jeenah and US Foreign Policy Expert and Daily Maverick Associate Editor, Brooks Spector.
The National Assembly has rejected the motion of no-confidence against President Jacob Zuma, with 221 votes. The motion was voted for by 113 members and eight abstained. The motion was brought by the DA shortly after Agang's withdrew theirs at the eleventh hour. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst, Dr Somadoda Fikeni.
EFF leader Julius Malema will wait until June 1st, to know if his provisional sequestration order is made final, or scrapped by the North Gauteng High court. The court postponed the case yesterday,to the first of June, after the South African Revenue Service filed affidavits stating that Malema had reneged from last year's agreement to pay back the outstanding tax, by the end of November 2014. Malema's Legal team challenged the SARS allegation, before the presiding Judge Ferdi Preller instructed the disputing parties to return to court on the 1st of June to make their case. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Julius Malema's Lawyer, Tumi Mokoena.
Market Analyst and Homemade Economist Clive Ramathibela talks, The Bank of Japan kept its record stimulus unchanged, even as it warned that cheaper energy prices will bring inflation to a halt, Asian stocks rose, after a rebound in U.S. equities, as weak economic data eased speculation the Federal Reserve will bring forward plans to raise interest rates and China's stock market climbed to levels last seen before the global financial crisis in 2008, what is behind the climb
Fondly described as the villager man, stories and tributes about the humility and strength of Collins Chabane continue unabated. From political and musical tributes to social networks - sentiment has been expressed to emulate his legacy. His death has shocked a nation. AM Live host speaks to the Minister's brother and family spokesperson, Percy Chabane.
According to the Sunday Times, a Johannesburg dentist and a beautician are said to have benefited from multimillion-rand contracts from Eskom, without the proper credentials. This revelation comes at the back of the suspension of four senior Eskom officials, as the power utility embarks on a fact-finding inquiry. Sakina spoke to Sunday Times Senior Investigative Reporter, Piet Rampedi who worked on the story.
We contacted Eskom for an interview, they were not available but offered a written response- this is what they had to say:
The Eskom Board Tender Committee issued the procurement team with a mandate to negotiate but not conclude contracts with a number of potential suppliers of diesel fuel to Eskom's open cycle gas turbine power stations. These suppliers will be required to provide quantities of diesel when required over and above that supplied by existing contracted suppliers. An open tender process was followed. The invitation to tender was published in the national press and negotiations have not yet been concluded. The tender evaluation criteria included supplier development and localisation requirements, technical capability, safety, health environmental and quality stipulations together with financial and commercial criteria. A significant amount of time and effort was spent by senior specialist Eskom officials to evaluate the tenders in a secure environment. The entire process, up until submission to the Board Tender Committee and going forward has been and will be audited by an independent external audit firm. Contracts will only be concluded once the necessary governance approval has been obtained following the conclusion of the negotiation process.
- Chinese stocks rose, with the benchmark index climbing to its highest level since August 2009, after Premier Li Keqiang pledged to take action if economic growth slows too much
- Speculations rise on what the FED will decide on rates as they meet from tomorrow
- Indonesia Plans Tax Breaks, Waives Some Visa Fees to Help Rupiah
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whereisputin, making rounds rapidly !!!
Humble, dedicated and a hard worker. These are some of the descriptions for the late public service and administration minister Collins Chabane. Government has described his death as a great loss for the country. Chabane died when a car he was travelling in collided with a truck on the N1 between Polokwane and Mokopane in Limpopo. Two body guards who were accompanying him also died. Tributes continue pouring in for the 55 year old. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Health Minister Aaron Mostoaledi , Chabane's friend Mr Jonas Shikundamalima and musician Don Laka
- Asian Stocks Advance From One-Month Low as Drugmakers Lead Gains
- China Stocks Rise to One-Week High on Rate Cut Bets and authorities continue to raise concerns over dairy products from New Zealand
- Are Social Media platforms a good investment idea?
- Thursday investment destination - Social Media Platforms!!
President Jacob Zuma took on opposition parties in the national assembly yesterday. Emotions and tension once again ran high when the president was answering oral questions. The controversy on money spent on his Nkandla home took centre stage, despite its absence on the agenda. It was the president's first oral question session in the national assembly since the chaotic sitting of August 21st last year. That session was adjourned after president Zuma was interrupted with shouts from EFF on when he will pay back the money . Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Lechesa Tsenoli on his impression on how the session went...
Policy dilemmna that the Federal Reserve is facing in hiking interest rates What is driving the Telkom share price lower ** the mining numbers coming out today (platinum and gold production numbers)
- Asian Stocks Track U.S. Drop After Dollar Gains on Rate Concerns
- China is drafting a proposal to transfer stakes in state-owned enterprises away from their regulator
- Women suing Goldman Sachs Group Inc. for alleged discrimination in pay and promotions shouldn't be allowed to bring their case against the bank as a group, a judge recommended
- Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke owe $7.4 million to the children of the late Marvin Gaye after a jury found that the 2013 mega-hit "Blurred Lines" infringes the soul legend's "Got to Give it Up."
An SABC crew has been robbed at gunpoint close to Johannesburg's Milpark Hospital. SABC Contributing editor, Vuyo Mvoko, Foreign editor, Sophie Mokoena and journalist, Chriselda Lewis were preparing for a live crossing after covering the arrival of Zambian President Edgar Lungu who is in the country for medical treatment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chriselda Lewis about the ordeal
President Jacob Zuma is expected to answer oral questions in the National Assembly today. It will be his first oral reply session for this year and some opposition parties have expressed different expectations for the session. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gengezi Mgidlana, Secretary to Parliament and Professor Pierre de Vos, Constitutional Law Expert.
S and P's commitmnet to keep our credit rating on hold for the next two years Business confidence numbers that came out yesterday ** first rand interim results that came out
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have instituted an inquiry after seven dead foetuses were discovered in a dump at Marianhill near Pinetown, west of Durban. The unborn babies were found in glass bottles filled with a brown fluid. Some bottles had broken exposing them to dirt and mud. Our reporter S'khangiwe Mthiyane reports and Sakina Kamwendo spoke to KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo on the find.
- Japan Stocks Swing as Paper Makers Fall, Exporters Rise on Yen
- Greece Rescue Talks to Resume as Euro Area Demands Urgent Action
- Five Things You Need to Know About the Apple Watch
Over-indebtedness and instant gratification are some of the reasons cited for not preserving pension funds whenever people change jobs. In our first part of a series on pension funds, we take a look at some of the reasons behind a spate of resignations in public sector. Our reporter Tshepo Mongoai has the details …
Various opposition parties are anxiously looking forward to *tomorrow's National Assembly seating where President Jacob Zuma is expected to answer to oral questions in parliament. The question regarding money spent on his Nkandla home continues to be a top priority for many of them. For more on what we can expect in parliament tomorrow Sakina kamwendo spoke to Political Analyst Dr Somadoda Fikeni....
Ten of COSATU's public sector unions are threatening to strike over government's reduced wage offer. The unions tabled a demand for a 15 percent salary increase, while government offered an increase of 5-point-eight percent. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Department of Public Service and Administration spokesperson, Brent Simon and Cosatu's Public Sector Union representative, Mugwena Maluleke.
BUSINESS CONFIDENCE NUMBERS COMING OUT TODAY FIRST RAND INTERIM RESULTS COMING OUT TODAY ** CHINESE INFLATION DATA WHICH CAME OUT EARLIER THIS MORNING
A survey by the the Institute of Race Relations, has shown that South Africa's broadband internet is not only "slow" but "too costly" compared with that in some developed countries. It suggests that lowering the cost of broadband in South Africa, could lead to better access to the internet by households and individuals, which, in turn, could be particularly helpful to job seekers. Joining us on the line for more on this, Head of Media at the Institute of Race Relations, Nienke Steyteler.
The National Union of Mineworkers has reacted with great concern to retrenchments by four major mining companies in Northern Cape. Assmang Blackrock mine, Diro Manganese Mine, Blue Chip and Rockwell Diamonds intend to retrench about a thousand workers collectively. The companies have served notice of the workforce reduction under the Labour Relations Act.Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Frans Baleni NUM's General Secretary
Nadir Thokan, analyst at 27 Four talks US jobs numbers that came out Friday, Company results that came out last week and what they mean for South Africa's equity and Sasol interim results coming out today.
Zambian President Edgar Lungu was diagnosed with malaria today after he collapsed during an International Women's Day ceremony.Sakina Kamwendo speaks to freelance journalist in Lusaka Zambia Sydney Mungala
Market Analyst and Homemade Economist Clive Ramathibela looks at the Asian stocks which fell, following lower U.S. equities as better-than-forecast U.S. jobs data fuelled speculation the Federal Reserve will be faster in raising interest rates. Chinese exports and imports show a lot of growth potential still in the tough economic structure and Active asset managers find it hard to convince their clients as passive still shows strong gains
For many, especially those who lost their homes, the raging fires in the Cape Peninsula have left a trail of devastation. But to Dr Christo Marais, the Chief Director of the Department of Environmental Affairs' Natural Resource Management Programme, these fires are a good thing
Nerina Visser Strategist and Advisor at ETFSA talks ECB meeting; details of their asset-buying program released and Quarterly JSE Index Review, changes give us some insight into current investment trends
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela who is a Market Analyst and Economist looks at Japan Stocks Rise as ECB Steps Up Stimulus and what can we look for in US jobs report and explains why do investment managers always refer to fundamental and technical analysis?
Nerina Visser , ETFSA Strategist & Advisor talks about major recent currency moves ahead of the ECB meeting today and US oil inventories are at record highs, capping potential increases in oil prices
The Pan South African Language Board gave a damning report in Parliament on Tuesday on how it blew almost 100 million rands, on unnecessary expenses. The chairman of the board, Professor Mbulungeni Madiba, told the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture that the organisation had also exceeded its budget by almost 40-million rand in four years. In additon, it had had spent 21-million rand in the past five years on legal fees because staff members were suing each other. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture, Xoliswa Tom.
The leader of Lesotho's main opposition party has announced a coalition government with smaller parties after Saturday's election had no outright winner. Pakalitha Mosisili of the Democratic Congress said in Maseru he would form a government with former Deputy Prime Minister Mothetjoa Metsing's Lesotho Congress for Democracy and several other smaller parties to gain a majority win. The new coalition has a majority of 61 seats. The Democratic Congress won 47 seats, while Prime Minister Thom Thabane's All Basotho Convention won 46. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to WIPHOLD-Brigalia Bam Chair of Electoral Democracy in Africa, UNISA, Professor Kealeboga Maphunye
Four learners in Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape, who allegedly raped their fellow male learner, will definitely face a charge of rape. Their 18-year-old victim was stripped naked, covered with what appears to be a soapy substance and then allegedly raped with a broomstick. The boys will appear again in court today, as Reginald Witbooi reports
Arms deal critic Richard Young's briefly appeared before the Seriti Commission of Inquiry into the controversial 1999 deal yesterday. This is the third time that Judge Willie Seriti has had to allow a postponement. On two previous occasions, Young asked the commission to postpone his appearance, sighting among other reasons, an inability to read due to an eye operation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Seriti Commission's spokesperson, William Baloyi.
In recent weeks, South Africa's media have focused on numerous high-profile incidents in which prominent figures were unmasked as frauds. The South African Qualifications Authority says this is a growing concern for the education and training sectors. In the latest incidents, the South African ambassador to Japan, Mohau Pheko, and the country's new ambassador to Washington, Mninwa Mahlangu, were found to have received their qualifications from unaccredited institutions. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the CEO of the South African Qualifications Authority, Joe Samuels...
Following last Wednesday's Budget Speech by Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene -the middle class say they feel short-changed as debt mounts. Spending has increased and so have the taxes. On this morning's edition of the Forum at eight we explore the spike in middle class debt. According to Unisa's Bureau of Market Research's Consumer Financial Vulnerability Index, South African consumers are under pressure due to high levels of debt and spending beyond their means. On the Forum@8 this morning we ask; how did the emerging South African middle class get into in trouble? Jacolize Meiring, who is an economist at the Bureau of Market Research at Unisa - Who was part of the research team working on the Consumer Financial Vulnerability Index and Dr Penelopé Hawkins, who is the Managing Director of economic policy and research company Feasibility discuss the matter.
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Australia Stocks Fall From Seven-Year High After RBA Holds Rates
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Asian stocks rose after U.S. equities climbed to records as rising consumer spending signalled strength in the world's largest economy
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Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates kept his spot as the world's richest man
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Asian stocks fell, dragging down the regional benchmark index from an almost six-month high, as a strengthening yen weighed on Japanese exporters
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Alibaba stock falls heavily following regulation concerns and Taiwan government demanding that the company leaves the country
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Forum contribution : Why our middle class is under pressure to service their debt?
Officials from the City of Cape Town together with fire authorities are currently meeting to discuss strategies to deal with the fires in the South Peninsula that is creating havoc. The situation in four hotspot areas have worsened overnight with a strong wind fanning the flames. Eight structures have been gutted and more than 300 people were evacuated from Tokai and Noordhoek. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Trevor Abrahams, Managing Director at Working on fire ...
AGANG parliamentary Leader, Andries Tlouamma has accused opposition parties in Parliament of hypocrisy. This after the party's decision to withdraw a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma yesterday. Tlouamma withdrew the motion after National Assembly Speaker, Baleka Mbete refused Agang's demand that she recuses herself during the debate. Opposition parties, led by the DA, strongly criticised Tlouamma for denying them the opportunity to debate the no confidence motion. He says the EFF and the DA are shallow parties who have contributed little to the fifth Parliament. Andries Tlouamma spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
Founding General Secretary of Cosatu says the situation within the federation is deplorable
COSATU president Sdumo Dlamini says the labour federation is prepared to welcome back its general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi and affiliates to the Central Executive Committe meeting.
JSE hits the skids on the first trading day of March, Nasdaq closes above 5,000 for the first time in 15 years, Deloitte Agribusiness released a report on risks to food security in SA over the medium to long term
· Stronger US economic data vs. weaker world markets · Quo vadis the ratings agencies and SA - Moody's issues a positive report after last week's budget · ABIL update: Louis von Zeuner, former ABSA, appointed as chairman, hope to appoint CEO and board by end of March
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Asian markets positive as China plans to collect past taxes for foreign money
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Fuel price could go up by close to R1 per litre
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Chelsea sign £40m-a-year Yokohama Rubber shirt sponsorship deal
According to a Financial Mail report, South Africa's ambassador to Japan Mohau Pheko is not a PHD graduate from LaSalle University as she claims in her CV. LaSalle was shut down in 1996 when it emerged it was selling degrees and other academic qualifications via the Internet. Pheko claims she received her PHD there in 2000. Pheko is among several South African public officials recently found to have been falsely claiming certain academic qualifications. Efforts to speak to Ambassador Pheko were unsuccessful, while the Department of International Relations has reserved its comment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Financial Mail's Fiona Forde
African Union Commission Chairperson Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma is in the country and Sakina Kamwendo takes the opportunity to speak to her on a variety of issues, including her role in the AU.
Rating Agency Fitch reviewed the latest budget speech saying the budget highlights the challenge the government faces in narrowing the fiscal deficit ,
South Africa's rand weakened against the dollar in line with the euro yesterday,
South African stocks edged up on yesterday led by Gold Fields tell us more about the top movers.
Market Analyst and Homemade Economist Clive Ramathibela gives his take on Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene and a praise song
Mohammed Nalla Head of Strategic Research at Nedbank Capital talks about Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene’s budget speech talking about, taxes, electricity levies and fuel prices all going up.
City Power is set to implement a residential time-of-use tariff system that will allow the utility to price electricity at different rates during the day. This will encourage use during off peak hours to reduce the cost to customers and lessen the pressure on the national grid. Eskom is expected to increase its tariffs by more than eight percent in the next four years. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Managing Director of City Power, Sicelo Xulu
Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene presents his budget speech this afternoon. It will be the first national budget since 1994 that will require increased taxes to raise revenue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist at Economists dot co.za, Mike Shussler
Al Jazeera are in possession of explosive spy cables implicating some the worlds spy agencies like the CIA, MI6 and our very South African Security Agency. A digital leak of hundreds of secret intelligence documents have strong and disturbing links to South Africa. From Iranian spies working in Johannesburg to the theft of South African missile technology blueprints. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Editor of City Press Ferial Hafajee
A Benoni family has done its own DNA tests to verify if the remains which they received from the Nigerian government are those of their sister. Her remains were among 11 brought home early this month because they could not be positively identified earlier. The South African government had previously advised families of the deceased not to open the body bag. But they had done so anyway. 84 South African were among the 116 people who died in the collapse at the Synagogue Church of All Nations building in Lagos in September last year. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lwandle Mkhulisi, brother of the late Phumzile Mkhulisi and Director at Werkskmans Attorneys, Pierre Burger.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura says the final decision on E-tolls will be made once Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa's team has completed its work. Makhura who was speaking at his State of the Province address in Johannesburg says the provincial government is part of the current consultation process led by Ramaphosa to develop a better dispensation which will mitigate the negative impact of Etolls on the people of Gauteng. Sakina Kamwenod spoke to Cosatu's General Secretary on his reaction to the State of the Province Address....
That was the voice of Cyril Ramaphosa, on this day, the 24th of February 1992, the ANC announced its constitutional proposals during the CODESA talks. The ANC's proposals envisioned a two-phase transition to a post-apartheid democracy and were supported by the South African Communist Party (SACP). During Phase One an all-party interim government council would be appointed by CODESA by the third quarter of 1992. The second phase would begin with the election of the constituent assembly, substituting the current tricameral parliament from which Blacks were excluded.
** South African stocks climbed to an all-time high yesterday, with Naspers Ltd. leading gains
** Gauteng premier put the economy at the centre of his state of the province address, pledging incentives for private business investment and jobs
** Statistics South Africa will release gross domestic product (GDP) data for the fourth quarter of 2014 today as Finance Minister Nhlanhla expected to deliver his budget speech
The Department of Justice and Correctional Services has dismissed claims that Minister Michael Masutha has received an application from convicted fraudster Schabir Shaik for the conversion of his medical parole to ordinary parole. The Democratic Alliance says it will take the matter to court if Shaik's application is to be considered. For more clarity Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Justice and Correctional Services spokesperson Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga...
- Asian Stocks Advance to Five-Month High After Greek Bailout Deal
- Russia Gets Second Junk Rating From Moody's on Ukraine
- Why is Gijima delisting from the JSE?
The Hawks will today approach the High Court in Pretoria, to challenge a court ruling that saw the overturning of the suspension of the Gauteng Hawks boss Maj-General Shadrack Sibiya. On Friday, Judge Elias Matojane ruled that Sibiya's suspension was unconstitutional, invalid and unlawful. Sibiya was suspended pending an investigation into his alleged role in the illegal rendition of Zimbabweans in 2010. Hawks Spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
** Greece has negotuated a settlement but the Troika needs to agree to its proposed reforms today.
** Oil is stabilized around 60 dollars as supply remains ample.
** Big focus this week on Minister Nene's budget.
Breaking down President Jacob Zuma's post SONA response, by hearing from young South Africans who could one day make their mark in business, politics and civil society, Youth Activist Simamkele Dlakavu, Khusela Sangoni who is, Mail and Guardian top 200 young South Africans and Attorney and Global strategist, Abdullah Verachia.
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Asian markets in the green booted by Japanese stocks thanks to the weaker YEN,
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Walmart CEO reaps the rewards of increasing the employees' salaries a year ago
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South African farmers warn of possibilities of imported maize as drought affects produce
The Gauteng Department of Education has sought an urgent court interdict to stop parents of the Roodepoort Primary School, from preventing the principal and teachers from entering the school premises. It has been reported that parents want a coloured principal as the area where they live is coloured. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng Department of Education MEC, Panyaza Lesufi.
NERINA VISSER, STRATEGIST AND ADVISOR AT ETF SOUTH AFRICA
· Greek bail-out negotiations are on a knife-edge and are set to go all the way down to the wire
· Earnings season is about to head into overdrive in SA - this is a time when company specifics often outweigh macro issues.
· Budget preview: the new tax-free savings account, to be introduced from March2015, is a 'no-brainer' - it should be the first R2,500 p.m. that anyone invest
Details on product structure and providers are still sketchy, but should be finalised by next week
Market Analyst and Homemade Economist Clive Ramathibela looks at; Japanese stocks rose, with precision instrument makers and banks leading gains and the Chinese new year - The Lunar Year, "Year of the Goat" what does it have in store!!
The omission of information from the minutes of last week's opening of parliament has some MP's seething. At first glance the minutes documenting the joint sitting of parliament last Thursday look like a dignified uninterrupted event. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the secretary to Parliament Gengezi Mgidlana and CEO of South African History Online, Omar Badsha.
• A wave of optimism has lifted markets overnight – risk-on trade sees a shift from West to East, from bonds to equities, from developed to emerging markets – should be good for the JSE (and resources) today, and the Rand may strengthen as the US dollar takes a bit of a breather • Fed minutes from January meeting due to be released today – will we get a hint at the timing of the first interest rate increase? • The daily under recovery on the South African petrol price is a massive R1.32 per litre. Expect a big increase in petrol price next month.
MARKET ANALYST , CLIVE RAMATHIBELA LOOKS AT
- Asian Stocks Fall for First Time in Four Days on Greece Concern
- Why the Greeks refused the "Ultimatum" from the Eurozone
- SAA Close to $107 Million Savings Target on Airbus Lease Talks
The situation in the Limpopo town of Malamulele is expected to return to normal by today. This comes after residents of the area called off their protest in demand of a separate municipality. The decision follows meetings between community structures led by the Malamulele Task Team and government officials. For the latest Sakina Kamwendo spoke to our reporter Witness Tiva and the acting MEC of Education in Limpopo, Jerry Ndou.
ANC Deputy Chief Whip Doris Dlakude says she is confident that the State of the Nation Debate which starts today (TUESDAY) will be conducted without any chaos or disruption. Dlakude convened an urgent multi-party Chief Whip's forum with whips of various political parties yesterday afternoon(Monday). EFF Chief Whip Floyd Shivhambu was not present at the Chief Whip's forum. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to former member of parliament Professor Ben Turok on what to expect.
NERINA VISSER, STRATEGIST AND ADVISOR AT ETF SOUTH AFRICA LOOKS AT
· JSE starts the week with another record high close, but on thin volumes as the US is closed for a public holiday · This morning Asian markets are on the back foot after Greek debt talks broke down last night · Has oil bottomed? Warning signs from soft commodity prices…
Bus operating company Piotrans says they have followed all the necessary legal procedures in dismissing the striking Rea Vaya Bus drivers. About 158 drivers have been notified of their dismissal after failing to appear for disciplinary hearings. Dismissed drivers have been given three days to appeal their dismissal. For more we are joined on the line by General Manager of Strategy and Transformation at Pio Trans Dumisani Mntambo.
Weekend reports quoted African National Congress chairperson Baleka Mbete (also Speaker of the National Assembly) calling Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, a cockroach. Addressing the North West ANC's 8th eighth provincial congress, she told the gathering: "If we don't work we will continue to have cockroaches like Malema roaming all over the place." To unpack this and other SONA related matters Sakina spoke to ANC National Spokesperson Zizi Kodwa, UDM leader Bantu Holomisa and political analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni
Today (thursday) Rules of Parliament will be tested to the limit. That's if the EFF makes good on their threat to disrupt President Zuma's address by raising points of orders and asking questions. How will the presiding officers interpret and apply the rules? will the parties reign in their members in the house? Sakina Kamwendo chats to the Secretary of Parliament
Market analyst Nadir Thokan at 27 four investment looks at
apples market cap exceeding 700 billion dollars state of the nation address ** Mondi and kumba's earnings
- Asian markets under pressure as investors weigh their options to more stable markets
- Greece and Europe struggling to find a compromise to make the Eurozone work
- Apple becomes the first US company to break the $700 Billion mark
Minister of Mineral Resources, Ngoako Ramatlhodi has confirmed that tomorrow (Thursday), President Jacob Zuma will announce a decision on which minerals should be classified as strategic. Last year, the Minister indicated that government was considering categorising certain minerals such as coal and iron ore as strategic. Declaring minerals strategic would curtail exports for mining companies and force them to sell the minerals to local companies at prices set by the government. Mining Analyst from Cadiz Corporate Solutions, Peter Major spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
About 100 parliamentary staff members have decided to withdraw their voluntary services during the State of the Nation Address on Thursday. They are demanding that management finalise issues relating to working conditions that were agreed on last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union Provincial Secretary, Luthando Nogcinisa
Mineral Resources Minister Advocate Ngoako Ramatlhodi speaking at the African Mining Indaba The upcoming budget speech to be tabled by Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene in parliament on 25 February
- Asian markets continue to slide as investor confidence is low
- India Says Its Economy Will Grow 7.4%, But Economists Can't Figure Out Why
- China facing Deflation and concerns rise over consumer purchasing power
South Africa's largest food retailer Shoprite has challenged all food companies in the country to cut their food prices and pass on the savings to South African consumers. Shoprite has urged other retailers to "Give the money Back to the People"- citing four consecutive decreases in the price of petrol since August last year. The oil price has fallen from 103 US Dollars a barrel to 53 dollars. To make sense of this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Economist of Pan African Investments and Research, Dr. Iraj Abedian.
The divisions within the Economic Freedom Fighters continue to grow. The dramatic fallout within the EFF leadership followed the failure of some members to be elected to the party's top structure in December. EFF organiser for Gauteng Lufuno Gorogo says the group has lost confidence in Malema. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi...
Nadir Thokan , analyst at 27 four investment on:
Tiger brands trading update Maize prices and the impact of higher prices ** Opportunities in listed property stocks
Asian markets in the Red as Chinese data shows more weakness in the region's largest economy GDP calculations being put to the test ... is growth domestic product a true reflection of growth? HSBC being investigated in Europe for hiding wealthy individuals tax liabilities
Gauteng Premier David Makhura has refuted reports quoting him as saying e-toll bills must be paid in adherence to the government's decision. Sakina spoke to Gauteng Provincial Government Spokesperson, Thabo Masebe.
The opposition to urban tolling alliance has expressed disappointment at the consultative meeting being held by the Gauteng Provincial Government on E tolls. OUTA has lashed out at the Gauteng Provincial Government saying they are complicating the matter even further and not addressing the elephant in room. On Friday, Gauteng Premier, David Makhura met with various stakeholders and the general public, to discuss the report of the Advisory Panel on the Socio-economic Impact of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project and the E-tolls. Sakina spoke to Chairperson of OUTA, Wayne Duvenage.
Are you going through a difficult time? Need inspiration to get you motivated? Then this Forum is for YOU! Sometimes we need words of encouragement on inner strength, to make us realize that we are not the only ones who have endured hard times. On the Forum@8 this morning we ask: How do you motivate yourself? Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Anthony Oseyemi - musician, writer , actor and Mike Muendane - Motivational Speaker and former politician
- Asian equities rose, with a gauge of Australian shares heading for a record streak of gains
- Why is the stimulus important to the Central Banks more so for Eurozone?
- Alternative Investments - Looking into investing in Expensive Taste!
A group of white Northern Cape high school boys have videoed themselves sodomising a fellow black pupil with a broom stick. According to reports the four-minute video shows a group of six boys in their underpants attack a black child at the hostel of an agricultural high school in the Northern Cape. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Northern Cape education spokesperson Sydney Stander
DEVELOPMENTS ON EUROPE AS GERMAN AND GREEK FINANCE MINISTERS MEET ESKOM MOVES TO STAGE 3 LOADSHEDDING ** EYES ON US JOBS DATA TODAY
The South African Press Association (Sapa) is closing shop. The news agency which has been in existence since 1938, was a special category non-profit company and cannot be sold off. After the disposal of its assets, the company will be liquidated. Its operations will cease when it sends out its last story at midnight on March 31. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sapa's Chairwoman Minette Ferreira
The South African Press Association (Sapa) is closing shop. The news agency which has been in existence since 1938, was a special category non-profit company and cannot be sold off. After the disposal of its assets, the company will be liquidated. Its operations will cease when it sends out its last story at midnight on March 31. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Sapa Chairperson Minette Ferreira
This week National government handed powers back to Limpopo after placing it under administration more than three years ago. The departments were placed under administration in 2011 by the Cabinet, because of a lack of financial management and a high level of maladministration. On the Forum at eight we were in conversation with the Premier of Limpopo Stan Mathabatha
Rea Vaya bus commuters in Johannesburg continue to be stranded without transport as the illegal strike continues. Piotrans management says they are hoping to begin talks with the relevant stakeholders as soon as possible to resolve the matter. Rea Vaya bus drivers abandoned their buses with the keys in the ignition during peak-hour traffic on Monday and held an illegal gathering in the Johannesburg CBD. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Piotrans' General Manager for Strategy and Transformation, Dumisani Mntambo...
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Asian stocks rebounded from an almost two-week low, led by material and energy companies
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Concerns rise over Sony Company's results expected later today that they could miss estimates
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Moody's downgrades six Eurozone banks following unsatisfactory briefing of their turnaround strategy
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LVMH ( Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy ) sales slow in Hong Kong as Chinese demand drops globally
The work done by the Advisory Panel, which reviewed the socio-economic impact of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project, was warmly welcomed at the end of the ANC Gauteng's 3-day Lekgotla held in Tshwane. The Advisory Panel was appointed last year, by Gauteng Premier David Makhura. Lekgotla reiterated the ANC Gauteng's position that eTolls in their current form, are undesirable and unworkable. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to African National Congress (ANC) Gauteng secretary, Hope Papo.
The Department of Basic Education says it is going ahead with implementing a new training programme which will see Maths teachers being retrained. Part of the training will involve testing teachers, and the pass mark is 80 percent. The new programme has raised eyebrows, with education stakeholders complaining that it will take teachers out of school for 23 days a year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Chief Director for Maths, Science Technology at the Department of Basic Education, Seliki Tlhabane and sadtu spokesperson, nomusa cembi opposing the idea.
AM Live went to Malamulele in Limpopo to hear the plight of the community as they shut the town down protesting to have a municipality independent of Thulamela. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to community members and leaders.
Constitutional Law experts in Lesotho are watching with keen interest how the justice system will handle a court application, in which the Attorney General is suing the King and the Prime Minister. This, after Prime Minister Tom Thabane advised King Letsie III to appoint Dr Kananelo Mosito as the President of the Court of Appeal. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lesotho Defence Force Spokesperson Major Ntlele Ntoi.
Limpopo police say that forensic investigators will soon be sent to Malamulele, where a section of the Malamulele High School was damaged by a fire, . For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Police spokesperson Ronell Otto
A Lesotho security guard has been shot dead and a bodyguard of Prime Minister Tom Thabane has been admitted to hospital following a shooting incident just outside the Royal Palace in Maseru late SUNDAY afternoon (01/02/2015). This dramatic incident took place only about a month before the Mountain Kingdom's general elections on the 28th of this month. Sakina kamwendo spoke to our reporter in Maseru Nthakoana Ngatane
Friends of Jackie Selebi says they believe the evidence used to arrest and prosecute the former police commissioner was compromised, however the NPAspokesperson, Velekhaya Mgobhozi, says there is nothing they can do in this matter. and he spoke to Sakina Kamwendo ..
Zanu-PF,says the reason why their leader has been elected head of the African Union, is because Africa completely and absolutely adores him. However, some diplomats who attended the Addis summit have allegedly described Mugabe's election as an "unfortunate accident" springing from the tradition of rotating the post between Africa's regions. Mugabe was elected head of the African Union (AU) at its summit in Addis Ababa last week. For more insight Sakina kamwenod spoke to the Director of the Institute for Global Dialogue, Dr Sphamandla Zondi..
Former Intelligence Minister and Member of United Front's National Working Committee, Ronnie Kasrils, says people who are trying to do good work, such as SA Revenue Services' deputy commissioner Ivan Pillay, are running into difficulties. Kasrils said he knew Pillay very well and believed he was "absolutely so clearly incorruptible"
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela looks at; Asian stocks gained, heading for the biggest monthly advance since July, after earnings from Nomura Holdings Incorporated beat estimates, Alibaba's fourth quarter results disappoint investors as they show 28% decline and What is the real cost of going to watch the Super bowl this Sunday!!! Seattle Seahawks vs New England Patriots
Does forgiveness lead to a better society? Or are some crimes so atrocious that the perpetrators should not be forgiven? These are the difficult questions the country face as it awaits a decision by the Correctional Services Minister on whether to grant parole to two apartheid era assassins - Eugene de Kock and Ferdi Barnard as well Clive Derby Lewis. Lewis was convicted for his role in the murder of Chris Hani the South African Communist Party leader in 1993. Correctional Services Minister, Michael Masutha is expected to make his decision known today. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to a former friend and comrade of Chris Hani, Bona Seakhoa
Sakina Kamwendo speaks to ANC's Treasurer-General Dr Zweli Mkhize about resolutions taken at their Lekgotla, one of which is for foreigners not to own land in the country
South Africa says all its nationals who are illegally engaged in military operations in Nigeria will be arrested. Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula was reacting to news reports that a group of former SANDF members are part of a 100 strong multi-national team to train Nigerian military against millitant group Boko Haram. Presidential correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more
Nadir Thokan, Analyst At 27 Four Investments looks at the Federal reserve comments yesterday and the Monetary Policy Committee meeting and rate decision today...
The Police Minister Nathi Nhleko will appear before Parliament's oversight committee today to discuss leadership issues in the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation. This comes after the Helen Suzman Foundation won a High Court case compelling Nhleko to reinstate Hawks boss Anwa Dramat. Dramat was suspended last month, pending a probe into his alleged involvement in the illegal rendition of Zimbabweans in 2010. Zalene Merrington tells us more...
The Soweto Business Access has warned foreign shop owners that their safety in the townships is not guaranteed as fundamental issues have not yet been addressed. The SBA says among the issues that have to be addressed urgently, are that foreign entrepreneurs do not invest in the economy of the townships and the country. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Chairman of the Soweto Business Access Mphuthi Mphuthi
Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko to appear before the parliamentary Police Portfolio Committee on Thursday. To make sense of all this, we are joined on the line by Minister Nhleko's Spokesperson Musa Zondi.
SA National Defence Force on Monday has said it was unaware of former South African soldiers being deployed to Nigeria to help destroy terrorist group Boko Haram. This, following a newspaper Beeld report that former soldiers of the SA Defence Force were part of a multinational team of private military experts on their way to Nigeria. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini...
Investment Analyst Nadir Thokan looks at; the US federal Reserve interest rate decision on Wednesday and SARB interest rate decision Thursday, US earnings numbers coming out this week and Cost to South Africans of not paying e-tolls
Asian Markets Talking points
Our Market Analyst and Economist Clive Ramathibela talks; 1. Oil prices jump following death of Saudi Arabian King, however policy will not change,
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Asian markets mostly up despite China PMI dissatisfaction,
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Why Draghi had to increase stimulus for the Eurozone
Join Clive Ramathibela every week day at 07:40 am
Deputy Chairperson of the Somali Association of South Africa, Kasim Bosh Alie says the attacks on foreigners in Soweto are both criminal and xenophobic.
A police media briefing is under way at the Moroka police station in Soweto this morning following the looting of foreign owned shops in the area. Police say they will continue to maintain visibility in the areas where foreign owned shops have been looted in Soweto. The rampage began on Monday evening after a foreign national shop owner allegedly shot and killed 14-year-old Siphiwe Mahori in Snake Park. This is what Gauteng police commissioner Lieutenant General Lesetja Mothiba had to say during the briefing
Market Analyst and Hommade Economist Clive Ramathibela talks; 1. Asian stocks fell even amid speculation the European Central Bank will boost stimulus through a sovereign-bond purchase program under the quantitative-easing strategy... 2. Davos presentation shows that economies are strengthened when you seal the gap of inequality in developing countries... 3. Thursday investment destination is Malaysia
A war of words is brewing between the former State Prosecutor Glynnis Breytenbach and the Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Michael Masutha. Breytenbach says the country's criminal justice has become an exploited and compromised entity under the leadership of President Jacob Zuma. Speaking at the Cape Town Press Club today (wednesday 21 January), she says it's affected the National Prosecuting Authority in particular, and the infighting is ongoing. In his reply to Breytenbach's remarks, Justice Minister Michael Masutha expressed anger, saying Breytenbach is the last person who can claim to be a paragon of virtue, given her legacy in the NPA. Our Parliamentary Reporter Abongwe Kobokana compiled this report.
Presidency raises serious concern about continued utterances by Helen Zille, insinuating that the head HAWKS, Anwar Dramat, is suspended for investigating or planning to investigate matters related to Nkandla... Helen Zille on the other hand insists available information suggests Hawks Boss Anwa Dramat was suspended because he investigated high-level corruption.
Market Analyst Clive Ramathibela speaks to Sakina Kamwendo about the; 1) Asian markets advance led by tech shares ahead of China GDP numbers, 2) IMF lowers Global growth forecast by most in 3 years, 3) Draghi's bond buying not so popular in Switzerland
President Jacob Zuma says constant reports that he is not meeting his Parliamentary obligations are incorrect and grossly misleading. Opposition parties have been calling on Zuma to appear before Parliament to answer questions relating to security upgrades at his Nkandla residents. His question and answer session was disrupted last August when EFF members banged tables demanding him to respond satisfactorily to their questions. Speaking exclusively with the SABC, President Zuma said he is actually waiting on Parliament to tell him when to avail himself to respond to any any issue it wants him address. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more.
Malawian President Peter Mutharika has called for urgent help from the international comunity. Malawi's Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has warned of heavy rainfall and flash floods to continue for the next two to three weeks. President Peter Mutharika has cancelled his trips to visit the flood stricken areas in his country. The death toll remains at 48 while it is estimated that 69,995 people have been displaced. We speak to SABC correspondent in Malawi George Mhango
Issues of global security have become a worrying concern with persistent attacks by Boko Haram in Nigeria, Activities of the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria, and the recent killing of more 130 school children in Pakistan to name a few. These events have highlighted a serious global threat of terrorism that no country or continent is immune to. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to State Security Minister David Mahlobo...
Market Analist and Economist Clive Ramathibela talks; The Swiss National Bank , which he leads, stunned markets around the world yesterday by getting rid of its three-year-old cap of 1.20 per euro on the franc in what was a major policy reversal for the typically staid institution. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index fell 0.6 percent by 2:06 p.m. in Tokyo, while Standard & Poor’s 500 Index futures slid 0.5 percent following a five-day drop More Americans unexpectedly filed applications for unemployment benefits last week, indicating companies let go of seasonal workers following the holidays. Tips of the weekend!
The South African National Defence Force has responded to the appeal by the government of Mozambique, for assistance with the flooding crisis in that country. Captain Jaco Theunissen of the South African Navy, says they're sending in Oryx medium transport helicopters, Navy divers as well as medical personnel from the South African Military health Service. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo chats to Jaco Theunissen
Secretary to the National Assembly, Masibulele Xaso, says no member of parliament is allowed to speak or rise on a point of order during the State of the Nation Address, unless prior permission has been granted. Xaso, together with parliamentary legal advisors and the Secretary to the NCOP, held a workshop with the parliamentary media yesterday, on how rules are applied during joint sittings... Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mr Xaso...
Reports say the Military in Nigeria, has called for support in tackling Boko Haram murder attacks. The country goes to the polls next month, but the extremists hold large parts of territory. We speak to Dr Babatunde Fagbayibo, is Senior Lecturer at Unisa, and Specialises in Regional Integration Law in Africa as well as International Law.
Nedbank Capital strategist Mohammed Nalla talks about the South African economy, China and Gold.
With just days to go before the beginning of the school year, many parents and children are scrambling to do the last of the school shopping and many others are standing in long queues to register their children for the new school year. In our parenting slot this week, we look at "back to school" issues. Palesa Tyobeka, Deputy Director General of District support and Monitoring at the Department of Basic Education....
On Thursday the African National Congress celebrated its hundred-and-eighth year of their existence. Today the party members have gathered at the Cape Town Stadium, Western Cape for the final leg of the festivities. President Jacob Zuma will later be delivering the party's annual January eight statement. This serves as the road map for the ruling party for the year ahead. Independent Political Analyst, Kenny Bafo
Thousands of supporters have begun arriving for the ANC's 103rd birthday celebration at Cape Town Stadium. Hundreds have been bussed in wearing ANC tshirts and singing songs. Party supporters have been streaming into the stadium under the watchful eye of a heavy police presence. The Chairperson of the ANC, Baleka Mbete...
SACP General Secretary Blade Nzimande says SACP members must make sure that expelled metalworkers union NUMSA does not succeed outside Cosatu. Nzimande was speaking at the 7th SACP KwaZulu-Natal Elective Congress in Umzimkhulu, in the southern part of the province. He says it is the responsibility of the SACP to intervene and cripple the growth of NUMSA in all its activities.
The Justice Project South Africa says the latest road fatality and accident figures for the festive season, are shocking. The Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters released the figures yesterday, showing that over 1 143 people have died, and that there has been a total of 924 car accidents. The Justice Project South Africa says it is deeply saddened and alarmed, as the number announced represents an increase of 466 fatalities in the 5 days between 23 and 28 December 2014 - or an average of 93 fatalities per day over the last report on 24 December. To make sense of this, joining us on the line is Chairman of the Justice Project South Africa Mr Howard Dembovsk
Only 1.4 percent of learners who wrote the Independent Examinations Board matric examinations have failed. The pass rate for almost ten-thousand learners stands at 98.38 percent. And an overwhelming number of those who passed are eligible to register for degree study. Deputy Director-General for curriculum, policy, monitoring and support in the Department of Basic Education, Matanzima Mweli.
The leadership of the Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg, has reportedly ordered that the building which has housed refugees for some six years now, be vacated. The church has been providing shelter to over 30 000 people in as many years, but is now expected to lock out the remaining 500 refugees living there. Methodist Church's Bishop Paul Verryn.
The search for an AirAsia passenger jet that vanished over Indonesian waters yesterday has resumed. Eight Indonesian aircraft and several navy ships have been taking part in the search along with ships and planes from Malaysia and Singapore. Australia has also sent a search aircraft. 162 people were aboard the airliner when it disappeared from radar screens. It was flying to Singapore from the Indonesian city of Surabay. Aviation Expert and former SAA pilot Karl Jensen
Parliament has certainly been transformed over the past six months. With the advent of the EFF, members of the National Assembly are getting used to living with rowdiness not dissimilar to a first year high school classroom. One person who has been caught in this is deputy Speaker, Lechesa Tsenoli. Joseph Mosia takes a look at some of the altercations that this former Minister has been involved in with members of the house...
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has warned that depression and anxiety is very common during this time of the year. A number of people have died after jumping off buildings since the beginning of December, Johannesburg alone, has reported four incedences. sakina Kamwendo spoke to Cassey Chambers of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group .
Speculation and anxiety continues, around when exactly will the mortal remains of 11 South Africans lying in mortuaries in Nigeria, be repatriated. They were part of the 84 South Africans who were killed when a s guesthouse attached to the Synagogue Church of All nations in Lagos collapsed, three months ago. During a mourning ceremony at the Waterkloof air force base last month, government said it would intensify efforts to ensure that the bodies still in Nigeria are returned without delay. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to government spokesperson Phumla Williams
Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema has vowed to leave no stone unturned against any unruly elements within the organization. In his opening address to the EFF's inaugural conference currently underway in Bloemfontein, Malema noted with concern some of the challenges that the party encountered in recent times. Malema also used the opportunity to set a direction which the party's new leadership should take.
Miss South Africa - a 22-year-old student from the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein - has won the title of Miss World at a ceremony in London. Rolene Strauss, a 4th year medical student, put her studies on hold in March to compete in the event. As Miss South Africa, Strauss has supported projects in women's rights, health and education.
** Standard & Poor's rates SA as stable, SASOL share price, U.S inflation data out on Wednesday
The South African National Blood Service is appealing to the public to roll- up their sleeves and donate the much needed life giving blood this festive season.
- Asian markets looking strong following the weakness of the yen
- Asia's new richest man
- Five tips to consider for the holidays
Eskom will see a coal independent power programme launched next month, with a generation capacity of 2 500 megawatts. This is part of government's effort to ease pressure on the grid. Meanwhile, the Minister of Energy Tina Joemat-Pettersson, says a technical team which will be responsible for the implementation of the 'Five-point plan' to address the strain on electricity system, will include the Department of Public Enterprises and the Department of Energy. For a closer look at these, Chief Economist at Econometrix, Dr Azar Jammine spoke to Sakina Kamwendo
NADIR THOKAN , ANALYST AT 27 FOUR INVESTMENTS LOOKS AT:
POTENTIAL MERGER BETWEEN AFRISAN AND PPC US JOB REPORT THAT CAME OUT AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT US ** THE WOES OF SASOL EVER SINCE THE OIL PRICE DECLINE
Police have identified four of the six men who were killed in a gruesome murder in Kraaifontein in Cape Town. Western Cape police commissioner General Arno Lamoer says investigators will hopefully have the identities of the other two men soon. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to community member and Head of Community Policing Forum in Kraaifontein Johan Badenhorst....
Judge Thokozile Masipa ruled yesterday, that prosecutors can appeal against paralympian Oscar Pistorius' acquittal on murder charges, but not against his sentence or his acquittal on the unlawful possession of ammunition. The case is to go to the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein, and, If the judges there, find that Masipa had made an error in her ruling, they can impose a different conviction. What will this mean for Pistorius then? For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Criminal Law Expert Advocate Mannie Witz.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa ICASA, will have to exercise its discretion when reviewing a decision to grant licences to Top TV, to broadcast three pornography channels. The Western Cape High Court has dismissed 'On Digital Media's application, for leave to appeal a ruling, that the communications authority must revisit its decision. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Icasa's Spokesperson Paseka Maleka.
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has asked the court to grant her leave to appeal a decision by the Chamber not to refer Kenya to the Assembly of States Parties over non-compliance with the court. The appeal comes just days after Fatou Bensouda announced that she was withdrawing charges against Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta, arguing the Kenyan Government's non compliance with her office's investigation compromised their ability to investigate those responsible for post election violence in 2007/8. A Coalition of NGOs has slammed the Kenyan government's alleged intransigence and rejected it as a victory for Africa's position against the Court. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
EFF criticises Judge President John Hlophe for his failure to allocate a date for the party's urgent application for an interdict against a contempt of Parliament finding against 20 of its MPs.
Asian stocks fell, with the regional index heading for its biggest two-day drop in a month, China's factory-gate deflation deepened and consumer prices climbed at the slowest pace since 2009, signalling room for further monetary easing, Yum brands drops after supplier scandal in china crimps profit
Zimbabwe's ruling party's newly appointed Central Committee will meet for the first time today . It comes barely a day after veteran ruler Robert Mugabe sacked his vice president and several ministers over an alleged coup plot. The decision ends the speculation about the fate of Mujuru once Mugabe's heir apparent. But it also renews questions about the future of the party. President Mugabe' Spokesperson, George Charamba speaks to us
Greek financial crisis is returning, South African consumers are spending more on food and less on clothing and socialising, Third quarter of mining and manufacturing data came out yesterday and it was poor , any signs of improvement on the horizon?
Market analyst Clive Ramathibela look sat
- Asian stocks fell, after U.S. shares dropped the most in almost seven weeks, as oil extended its decline and a stronger yen weighed on Japanese exporters
- China Growth Seen Slowing From Rail to Retail as Housing Peaks
- Buy a Samsung Phone Online in India and You Get a Brick
The paralympian, Oscar Pistorius, is not expected to attend the application for leave to appeal against his judgment and sentence in the High Court in Pretoria. The state will bring the application today (Tuesday 9 December). Pistorius' defence team indicated they will oppose the application. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Advocate Mannie Witz who is with the Bridge Group at the Johannesburg Bar
Chris Gilmour, Analyst at Absa wealth and investment management looks at:
1) Eskom-Crisis? What crisis? Wouldn’t the new CEO have been better advised to come out of denial and chart the way forward, rather than insisting there is no crisis? 2) SA’s 3rd quarter current account deficit-worse than expected-why? 3) The rand took a beating yesterday after the current account figures were announced-is that weak bias likely to continue?
Alleged murder mastermind Shrien Dewani will today know his fate. The British businessman is on trial for allegedly orchestrating the murder of his wife Anni four years ago in Cape Town. Dewani's legal counsel brought an application in the Western Cape high court for a discharge of the case. He faces five charges, including murder and kidnapping. Criminal Law Expert, William Booth speaking to us
The body of Pierre Korkie is expected to arrive back in South Africa today. The former Bloemfontein teacher was killed during a failed attempt by U.S.-led forces to free hostages from militants in Yemen on Saturday. American journalist Luke Somers also died in the attack.
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China's trade surplus in November hit a record, what does it say about the state of the Chinese economy?
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Two pieces of Japanese data came out this morning-the Reuters Tankan survey and Q3 figure?
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Eskom is having a media briefing later today. Its strategy appears to be to run the generators hard during the week and then subject individuals to power cuts over the weekend to replenish supplies of diesel and water. Is this a sustainable strategy, especially as we get into the peak Xmas shopping season?
Eskom has dismissed reports that South Africa is headed for a total blackout. The message has gone viral, causing panic among South Africans already burdened with punishing rolling blackouts. This as Cabinet is set to meet on Wednesday to discuss the electricity crisis..
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
On the Coal-Face this week Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly talks; secret stocks that have been befuddling our platinum price | mineworker numbers are expected to fall 8% a year in the next two years| possible labour unrest in the gold mining industry in 2015.
Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Communication has found the Chairperson of the SABC Board Zandile Ellen Tshabalala guilty on all two charges of misrepresenting her academic qualifications and lying under oath. The committee says it will now recommend for her immediate suspension and removal from the SABC board. But, as our parliamentary reporter Abongwe Kobokana reports, the committee resolved to proceed with the inquiry.
Government has been engaging with prospective nuclear vendor countries recently, as part of the process towards the implementation of the expansion in the nuclear new build programme. A week long nuclear vendor workshop has been concluded, where vendor countries, China, France, South Korea, and the USA, showcased how, if chosen, they plan to meet South Africa's needs in the implementation of the required 9600 Megawatt nuclear power capacity. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Director General for Nuclear Energy at the department of Energy, Zizamele Mbambo.
A document claiming that NUMSA's leadership is plotting to overthrow the South African government is part of a dirty tricks campaign to destroy the metalworkers union. Briefing the media in Johannesburg yesterday the metalworkers union says it is being targeted as part of the creeping authoritarianism of the current regime. The document signed by unnamed sources simply calling themselves concerned members of NUMSA makes claims that the union's General Secretary and Deputy Irvin Jim and Karl Cloete are kingpins of such a plot and are assisted by amongst others former Defence Minister Ronnie Kasrils and political commentator Moeletsi Mbeki. Numsa alleges that elements of the country's security agencies South African Communist Party, the SACP and the ANC are behind the document. sakina Kamwendo spoke to the spokesperson of the SACP, Alex Mashilo.
A document claiming that NUMSA's leadership is plotting to overthrow the South African government is part of a dirty tricks campaign to destroy the metalworkers union. Briefing the media in Johannesburg yesterday the metalworkers union says it is being targeted as part of the creeping authoritarianism of the current regime. The document signed by unnamed sources simply calling themselves concerned members of NUMSA makes claims that the union's General Secretary and Deputy Irvin Jim and Karl Cloete are kingpins of such a plot and are assisted by amongst others former Defence Minister Ronnie Kasrils and political commentator Moeletsi Mbeki. Numsa alleges that elements of the country's security agencies South African Communist Party, the SACP and the ANC are behind the document. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist and Economics Professor at Wits University, Professor Chris Malekane. He's also one of the people who were named on the document as "plotters".
Japan leads Asia stocks higher on U.S. car sales and a weaker Yen, China stock markets rally boosts confidence and gears investors for a bullish market, Russian woes worsen as recession looms with banks in 'panic'
Kenya's Interior Security Minister Joseph Lenku has been fired, while the country's Police chief David Kimaiyo has resigned hours after 36 people were killed in a terror attack in Mandera, on the border with Somalia. Militant group Al shabab say they attacked the quarry on the border with Somalia ten days after they shot dead 28 passengers in the same town. Senior Researcher on International Crime in Africa Programme at the Institute for Security Studies, Anneli Botha.
Lungisani Innocent Mdlolo escaped from the High Court in Palm Ridge yesterday, shortly before he was due to be sentenced for various crimes including murder, rape & armed robbery. It is alleged that he was not wearing leg irons when he was brought to court. Ministerial Spokesperson at the Department of Justice & Constitutional Development, Adv Mthunzi Mhaga speaks on the matter
SA vehicle sales data disappoints, Eurozone PPI stays in deflation and US dollar remains strong pressuring rand and commodities
Mohammed Nalla Head of Strategic Research at Nedbank Capital looks at the day's market updates, Massive sell out of equity markets yesterday and global PMI data
Most Asian stocks rise as Japan climbs after inflation data, Glaxo (Glaxo Smith Kline) fired executive who raised South Africa race complaint – the executive wrote a note to the international relations wing of 17 pages explaining concerns over discrimination in the RSA business, Potato Chips lead in “Anything-But-Oil” Canada Rally – Investors putting their money where their mouth is literally by opting to invest in Potato Chips Companies
The impact of OPEC's decision not to cut production, Trade balance numbers coming out of South Africa today, European economic data also out today
The SABC has filled strategic positions which the corporation says will contribute immensely to the stability of the organisation. Nothando Maseko takes over as Head of Television News. Sebolelo Ditlhakanyane is the Head of Radio News; Bessie Tugwana has been appointed as Head of Sport and Sully Motsweni as Group Executive: Stakeholder Relations and Provinces. We speak to Jimi Mathews who has been appointed as Group Executive: News and Current Affairs
The first day of the ANC youth league's consultative national conference descended into chaos as disgruntled delegates vented out their anger on speakers. Yesterday some delegates kept shouting the name of former treasurer and presidential hopeful Pule Mabe, when speeches and messages of support were being delivered. The move was a protest against a decision to convert the conference which was supposed to elect leadership into a consultative one. The decision was announced on the eve of the conference when delegates were already on their way to University of Johannesburg's Soweto campus, where the conference is taking place. Senior political journalist Amos Phago reports.
Cardiologist Dr Wouter Basson appeared before the Health Professions Council of South Africa, facing a string of accusations of breaching medical ethics during a chemical warfare programme in the 1980's. Sentence arguments started in Pretoria yesterday, with proforma complainants in the professional conduct matter against him arguing that his conduct as head of chemical warfare programme was disgraceful to the medical profession. Listen to a clip with Section 27's Mark Haywood , a witness to testifying on aggravating circumstances against Basson and for more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor Leslie London is Head of the Division of Public Health Medicine at the University of Cape Town.
Zimbabwe's ruling party Zanu PF's Central Committee is to meet next week to review results of the organ's elections in which senior party leaders including the country's Vice President were denied seats. The Central Committee is party's principal organ from whose membership party leader Robert Mugabe will appoint his two vice presidents and party chairman in the Congress next week. Current Vice President Joice Mujuru, remains in limbo after her election papers were rejected by the party over alleged links to a plot to assassinate long time ruler Robert Mugabe.SABC's Shingai Nyoka has the details
Power utility Eskom's woes are deepening, the company has apologised to the public, due to a malfunction at the Lethabo power station has led to dust emissions higher than normal. This is due to the failure of the ash plant equipment that is responsible for moving ash to the ash dump, resulting in significantly high dust levels. This comes at the back of rolling blak outs that Eskom had to impose around the country to strain on the power grid. To discuss this further Sakina spoke to Dru Steve Lennon, Eskom's group executive for sustainability.
A social analyst who has studied the history of rioting in the United States has questioned why police officers no longer shoot to subdue suspects as opposed to killing them. Professor Joshua Brown of the American Social History Project also argues that there's been a groundswell of outrage tied to police violence particularly against unarmed black males that raises questions about broader inequality and treatment in other aspects of minority life. As Americans again interrogate racial divisions in the country brought to the fore in the aftermath of the grand jury decision not to proceed with a trial against the white police officer who killed black teenager Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports.
The Nigerian central bank devalued its currency by 8% as the oil-producing nation takes a hit from falling oil prices.
UK GDP figures coming out today
Vukile to release some property data
Asian Stocks rise for fourth day as Materials shares lead gains, Uber ( A taxi service application ) said close to raising funding at up to $40B value, why it was necessary for the GDP number to look positive!!
As the country prepares to migrate from analogue to digital terrestrial television (DTT), there are rising concerns that poor households would not be able to afford set top boxes despite government subsidy. The Right2Know Campaign and the SOS Coalition will be protesting for free Set-Top Boxes outside the Universal Service& Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA) today (sic). Government has committed to completing the migration process by next June. Sekoetlane Phamodi, SOS coalition coordinator tells us more
SAA's acting CEO Nico Bezuidenhout has broken his silence following media reports accusing him of lying about his academic qualifications. Bezuidenhout told the SABC News that his staff and colleagues have always known that he does not have a degree. He says his experience and proven delivery are a good substitute for academic qualifications. We speak to CEO of iFacts Limited, Jenny Reid, whose company specialises in, among other things Employee Screening, Investigations and Truth Verification.
As the Health Professions Council of South Africa today begins its sentencing hearing of Dr Wouter Basson, former head of the Apartheid chemical and biological weapons, a short film that highlights Dr Basson's activities will be screened at Wits university. The film will also reflect on the outcome of the hearing and why this remains important today. Last year, the HPCSA found Basson guilty of unethical conduct. The producers of the film say it was inspired by a recent visit to Roodeplaat Research Laboratories, where during apartheid, scientists undertook animal experiments to, amongst other things, find toxins and chemicals that could be used to kill without leaving a trace. We speak to senior researcher in the Crime and Justice Programme of the Institute for Security Studies, Dr Chandre Gould.
South Africa's GDP increased by 1.4% quarter on quarter from a revised 0.5% rise in the second quarter, Eskom's financial position systematically deteriorating due to rising primary energy costs including diesel and coal, Steinhoff acquires controlling stake in Pepkor, Naspers announced financial results
Asia Stocks Drop With Oil as the Dollar Hits 7-Year High to Yen, Shinzo Abe calls for elections and delays sales tax by 18 months, Indonesia Surprises With Rate Increase as Fuel Planned increases Draws Protests and Shanghai Stock Link Flows Plunge as CLSA Sees Ghost Train
The Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu denies reports that a Johannesburg law firm was due to attach the department's furniture and other movable goods worth R 6.5 million due to outstanding payments
The former Chairperson of Parliament's Ethics Committee Ben Turok says Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa took the right decision to look for a political solution to address the disruptions that plagued the fifth democratic parliament. This comes after the Powers and Privileges Committee report recommending sanctions against 20 EFF MP has been put on hold following a meeting between Ramaphosa and opposition parties in Parliament. Sakina speaks to ANC Chief Whip Stone Sizane
A group of Woolworths shareholders have expressed concern regarding what they call the increasingly irresponsible manner in which the management of Woolworths is handling the #BoycottWoolworths campaign. The businessmen say they're of the view that, Woolworths should have met with the activists advancing this campaign, regardless of whether the company agrees with the activists or not. They say meeting and trying to resolve this issue should have been the first step, and going to court to resolve the issue should only have been the last option. Alan Hurwitz represents Woolworths Shareholders that support the #BoycottWoolworths campaign speaks to Sakina
Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate keep going lower, Deloitte yesterday released a report on the African Consumer, African GDP growth in the next five years, six SA platinum miners have launched the World Platinum Investment Council.
Academic, diviner and a practitioner and leader of African Indigenous Religion, Dr Nokuzola Mndende says the families of the people who died in the tragic building collapse at the Synagogue Church of all Nations should travel to Nigeria to 'fetch' their spirits ...
On the Forum@8 this morning we discuss proposals to raise the controversial thirty percent matric pass requirement and the scrapping of Life orientation as an examinable Grade twelve subject - among other issues. These are among a raft of changes proposed by a committee set up by the Department of Basic Education to investigate the value of the matric certificate and its thirty percent pass mark. On the Forum this morning we ask: Will suggestions to increase the pass mark from 30% improve the quality of education?
GUESTS, Professor Ruksana Osman, Who is a Professor of Education and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Mr Elijah Mhlanga- Spokesperson at the Department of Basic Education
- Asian stocks rise as Abe poised to add stimulus and he is expected to call an election
- Beijing home prices drop for first time in 2 Years on discounts provided by developers and banks
- Why Chinese students at U.S. universities Jumped 75% in three years
The United Taxi Forum in Gauteng has called on the Gauteng Transport Department to speed up the issuing of operating licenses which will exempt them from paying etolls. Thousands of commuters were left stranded for transport yesterday, when Taxi drivers went on a strike. Taxi operators marched on the department of transport and community safety in Johannesburg, to hand over a memorandum calling for their taxi permits to be reinstated, and that the e-tolls system be scrapped. To explain further Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Ismail Vadi.
The leader of government business in Parliament, Deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to meet leaders of political parties in Parliament today. The meeting is part of Ramaphosa's efforts to strengthen and consolidate parliamentary democratic processes, by promoting sound and healthy working relationship between parliamentary political parties and members of the national executive. For a closer look at these developments, sakina Kamwendo spoke to Dr Richard Pithouse teaches Politics at Rhodes University.
The defence for murder accused Shrien Dewani is expected to bring an application in the Western Cape High Court tomorrow, the 19th of November 2014 to have charges against him dropped. This after the state closed its case. Dewani has pleaded not guilty to five charges including murder and kidnapping. He allegedly arranged the hit on his Swedish wife Anni Dewani in November 2010. SABC's Berenice Moss reports
Parliament's Powers and Privileges Committee report recommending sanctions against the 20 EFF MPs who were found guilty of misconduct, will be debated in the National Assembly today. The Committee will seek the final approval of the Assembly, before sanctions can be implemented against the affected members. They are facing various penalties ranging from 30 days suspension from Parliament to one month's salary. Our arliamentary Correspondent Mercedes Besent tells us more
Chris Gilmour, analyst at Absa wealth and investment management looks at:
1) Japan’s stock market rebounded this morning after falling heavily yesterday. What caused this and what is the outlook for Japan’s economy now that it is officially in recession? 2) Against an extremely poor local consumer economy, Mr Price confounded the pundits with very strong interim earnings growth yesterday. What’s the secret to success in this Durban-headquartered company? 3) Chinese property prices keep falling-is this likely to prompt economic stimulus by the Chinese authorities?
Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi says he is NOT leaving the union federation. Vavi admitted that he refused to sign a letter expelling NUMSA from the union federation. Vavi says in a letter he wrote last week, he did mention that the decision taken by Cosatu central executive committee to expel Numsa from the trade union federation has "momentous implications". The letter was sent on Tuesday and addressed to the Cosatu president, affiliate general secretaries and provincial secretaries. He said he was sending the letter in his capacity as general secretary but also in his personal capacity. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Mr Vavi
About 300 people including families, say that they will continue to sleep out in the open, and will not move from the land they occupied illegally, until the City of Tshwane addresses their housing needs. Tshwane Metro Police and security guards dismantled shacks illegally built on a vacant plot in Nellmapius, on wednesday. The community leader says that they waited for a representative from the city, who was scheduled to address them, but were later told that the person will not be coming because of a gala dinner he is scheduled to attend. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eddie Mathiba, a community leader at Nellmapius and spokesperson for the City of Tshwane, Blessing Manale.
Asian markets increase momentum as they are sparked by positive sentiment from Japan delaying the sales tax, the question though should be for how long , Premier Xi Gets a 'C' in Report Card on China's Policy Program: Economy, What the economic changes have affected the family institution in the U.S
The remains of South Africans who died when a church building collapsed in Nigeria will be repatriated at the weekend. Minister in the presidency Jeff Radebe is in Nigeria to fast-track the return of the bodies, two months after the guest house at the Synagogue Church of All Nations collapsed. The church headed by preacher TB Joshua, collapsed on September 12, killing 116 people. These included 81 South Africans, as well as three Zimbabweans and one Democratic Republic of Congo national using South African travel papers.
COSATU says it remains committed to its decision taken at the weekend to expel its largest affiliate, NUMSA, from the labour federation. Briefing the media in Johannesburg yesterday COSATU's leadership said while booting out NUMSA was a painful decision and one that was not taken lightly, it was now important to work towards forging unity within affiliates and COSATU as a whole. It now says that NUMSA can appeal its expulsion at COSATU's National Congress in September next year and has hit out at its critics
SA manufacturing data beats expectations, volatile rand on back of US dollar trade yesterday and e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding reported more than $9 billion in sales on China's Singles' Day
Striking post office workers have been urged by parliament's portfolio committee on telecommunications and postal services, to return to work. This follows the voluntary resignation of the South African Post Office board. The strike by workers has now entered it's fourth month. The workers are demanding an eight percent pay rise, and the conversion of casual workers to permanent staff. The strike is expected to result in a shortfall of millions of rand for the already cash-strapped post office. Joining us now to discuss the matter further is Mamoloko Kubayi, chair of Parliament's portfolio committee on telecommunications and postal services.
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
Union Federation COSATU is now facing a new challenge, with seven affiliates suspending their participation in the Federation with immediate effect, yesterday. This, after the Central Executive Committee decided to expel its largest affiliate NUMSA, on Friday last week. The ANC described that expulsion as disappointing and tragic, and a setback for COSATU, the tripartite alliance and other progressive forces in South Africa. To talk about this sakina kamwendo spoke to veteran trade unionist, and a founding president of the NUM, James Motlatsi and Political Analyst, Moeletsi Mbeki.
- Asian market stocks go up as the Japanese Stocks looks strong
- Abinomics lost ground on five economic fronts
- Concern raised as Euro bond issued to Africa
Financial secrecy by multi-national companies helps strip Africa of about 50-billion US dollars each year. Prominent social activists and anti-corruption watchdogs, that include Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Corruption Watch, and Transparency International, are jointly calling for the leaders of the Group of 20 biggest economies to stop that corruption. In an open letter to the leaders heading to Brisbane for the G20 Summit, the activists stress governments must make corruption by multi-national companies a priority. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Corruption Watch Executive director David Lewis
Metal workers at the various car manufacturing plants in the Eastern Cape want NUMSA to fight for a return to the COSATU-fold. NUMSA has instructed its members to continue attending COSATU shop steward council meetings, despite its expulsion from the trade federation. Our reporter, Mzukisi Solani has more...
Numsa says they don't believe that they will get a fair hearing from today's meeting. NUMSA President, Andrew Chirwa says as the workers, they have a right to be in COSATU. Cosatu on tthe othe hands says the Metalworkers' union should not pre-empt the results of today's Central Executive meeting. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Both Numsa and Cosatu President Andrew Chirwa and S'dumo Dlamini...
On the Coal-Face feature today Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly looks at New technology has slashed the use of electricity at Glencore’s giant chrome beatification plant, New technology will next year unlock a ton of gold that cannot be mined conventionally and New technology is recovering gold from process waste that normally ends up on the trash heap...
Deputy Agriculture Minister, Bheki Cele says communities have a responsibility to make sure that criminals never have peace wherever they are. He was addressing Vosloorus residents, who packed the local community hall to discuss crime yesterday (Tuesday). This follows the murder of Bafana Bafana Captain, Senzo Meyiwa who was gunned down in the township over a week ago. The meeting, organised by the ANCYL in Gauteng, aims to highlight the need for the community to get involved in the fight against crime. Wisani Makhubele has more
Nedlac constituencies to the Presidential Labour Relations Indaba, have reached an in-priciple agreement on a national minimu wage. Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa who presided over the Conference says a task team made up of representatives of business, government, labour and the community will work out a framwork for a final agreement by July next year. The central issue to be tackled is the model of a national minimum wage for South Africa. Frank Nxumalo compiled this report and presented by Sisanda Jonas...
Yesterday, Eskom has started rolling blackouts across the country, due to the loss of 1 800 Mega Watts at the Majuba power station. The power Utility has implemented rotational load shedding, to deal with damages that were caused by the collapse of its coal storage silo at the Majuba power station in Mpumalanga.Residents in Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Cape Town have experienced power cuts. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Eskom spokesperson Andrew Etzinger.
NADIR THOKAN , ANALYST FROM 27 FOUR INVESTMENTS LOOKS AT:
- Increase in volatility on the JSE over the last three months and what has caused this?
- Central banks diverging monetary policy strategies with particular reference to the FED and bank of Japan
- Finally ..Corporate governance at SA companies and the issues at HCI and PPC
South Africans should brace themselves for yet another series of power cuts by Eskom. The power utility says in a statement the load shedding would start at 8 a.m. and run till 10 p.m. It says it has lost one-thousand-800 megawatts at the Majuba power station that was now operating at a reduced capacity of one-thousand-300 megawatt. Eskom spokesperson, Andrew Etzinger....
The Panel: Rhulani Baloyi- SABC News Editor/ Dion Delport- Editor at Independent in KwaZulu-Natal & Janet Whitton- SABC Deputy Sports Editor
This month in our health slot we will be looking at Diabetes as the country highlights National Diabetes month. Professor Larry Distiller, Managing director and Principal Physician of the Centres for Diabetes ..
The founder and chair of Tshisevhe Gwina Ratshimbilani (TGR) Corporate and Commercial Attorneys, Peter Tshisevhe has been named as one of the best Mergers & Acquisitions lawyers in the Best Lawyer's International 2014 listing. A peer-reviewed listing of excellence, it is produced in the United States and published in over 65 countries worldwide.
Over 55 million hectares of land in Africa have been "grabbed" since 2000, according to research presented at a conference earlier in the week. Dr Blessing Karumbidza, senior research associate at the Durban University of Technology, says more land had been "grabbed" in Africa between 2000 and 2012 than in the rest of the world combined. He made a presentation on behalf of Prof Robert Home from Anglia Ruskin University in the United Kingdom. Land grabs were broadly defined as large-scale land acquisitions which displaced vulnerable communities and farmers, with disregard for the rights of these people and social and environmental impacts. Executive Director of Gravitazz Continental Initiative Milan Atam...
Motivational speaker: Abongile Mangala: Finding yourself comes with you understanding what makes you happy
Soweto Wine Festival, Joburg food and Wine and other have come and gone. Now comes the Summer Jumble Sale in Soweto. What makes this festival to stand out from the rest is the fact that it is not only organised by Sowetans but it also features small businesses from Soweto. Businesses such as; clothing, food caterers, cocktail mixologist will be showcasing their craft and hoping to sell some of their exhibits. The wonderful thing about this festival is that its free (that's right free) for members of the public to come and enjoy a pleasant day with your picnic basket and a cooler bag. Founder and organiser of the Summer Jumble Sale, Ntsiki Mdlankomo...
Legal experts say Senzo Meyiwa's baby daughter with Kelly Khumalo will be entitled to a part of his estate. Khumalo could make a claim on her daughter's behalf against the estate if no provision was made for the child in his will. However, according to civil law, Khumalo herself has no claim to any assets in Meyiwa's estate. Cultural expert from the KZN University, Prof. Sihawu Ngubane....
Most consumers have fallen victim to bad service at some point or another yet not many know which avenues to follow when this happens. There are a number of offices that regulate the consumer industry and thus ensure that service providers do not abuse their power and that the rights of the consumer are upheld at all times. Public Relations Manager at the office of the Credit Ombudman, Neo Loeto....
Third quarter unemployment figures barley moved this week while experts warns of move water shortages in the country if we do not recycle our underground mining water. Meanwhile consumers are finding it more and more difficult to keep up with their bond repayments -this according to Nedbank head of home loan sales. Seshreka Pillay from FNB Securities...
Legal experts say Senzo Meyiwa's daughter with Kelly Khumalo will be entitled to a part of his estate. Khumalo could make a claim on her daughter's behalf against the estate if no provision was made for the child in his will. However, according to civil law, Khumalo herself has no claim to any assets in Meyiwa's estate. This is in light of reports yesterday that Senzo Meyiwa's family is allegedly considering legal action to compel the goalkeeper's girlfriend Kelly Khumalo to hand over his personal belongings, including clothes and two vehicles. Themba Langa from Langa Attorneys...
Several people were reported killed by gunfire in Burkina Faso yesterday, when thousands of protesters marched on the capital Ouagadougou, setting parliament buildings on fire. reports said protesters took over radio and television stations belonging to the state. Protesters also set fire to homes of several of President Compaoré's relatives and advisers, and to the offices of the governing party.For a closer look at this, AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Willian Assanvo, Senior Researcher and the Institute for Security Studies in Dakar, Senegal.
Mohammed Nalla, analyst at Nedbank Capitals looks at
1.Lots of SA data yesterday somewhat upbeat ... 2.Rand supported after a brief foray weaker yesterday. What is the outlook 3.US GDP for 3rd quarter up by 3.5%
** ICBC ( Industrial and Commercial Bank of China ) Posts Biggest Jump in Bad Loans Since ’06 on Economy
** Zambia not at ease with Guy Scott as interim president for 3 months
** Thursday investment destination – India
The search for Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates captain Senzo Meyiwa's killers is continuing. Police are yet to arrest anyone for the murder that happened on Sunday evening. Yesterday police released a 3D identikit of two of the three suspects.
In Nigeria, Stallion Motors unveiled one of its locally assembled Hyundai models at another interactive session with automobile media in Lagos.
The Ethiopian Electric Power headed by Engineer Azeb Asnake signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a US-based company Green Technology Africa Inc. (GTA) to generate 300MW of solar energy.
** The Federal Reserve has officially announced an end to its quantitative easing bond-buying program
** Expectations for PPI, unemployment and SA budget data all out today ...
On the Forum@8 this morning we look at the gender agenda. Where are women placed in the structures of our society? Are they just mothers, domestic workers and PA's or are we seeing them as leaders? The progress of women towards decision making positions in business, government, and academia continues to provoke debate. What will it take for us as South Africa to drive the gender agenda? Is it enough that we have only legislated that we have a 50/50 representation BUT fail to see no action or enforcement taken? Nomboniso Gasa Independent Researcher and Analyst on Gender, Politics, Leadership and Cultural Issues and Janine Hicks who is a Commissioner at the Commission for Gender Equality both say South Africa has made progress since the dawn of democracy.
Small business development minister Lindiwe Zulu, addressed the summit and expressed concern over the statistics showing that almost 80 percent of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) fail in their first year.
The Road Accident Fund says it has paid out well over over R22 billion to road accident survivors in the 2013/14 financial year and also reports that the number of people arrested for defrauding the Fund rose from 290 to 478 in the 2013/14 financial year.
The ANC has denied assertions made by NUMSA, that the country's poor and working class had lost faith in the party.
Patchy US data yesterday doesn't seem to be scaring markets yet. Eyes on US Federal reserve today as they look to end quantitative easing and hint to "policy normalization' time frame ** Sasol's R8 billion investments into a US plant roughly the size of Secunda
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
News and Current Affairs Show hosted by award winning presenter Sakina Kamwendo, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm
The State will appeal both the conviction and the sentence in the Oscar Pistorius trial. Judge Thokozile Masipa, sentenced Pistorius to five years in prison last week, for culpable homicide. The paralympian admitted to shooting his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, after mistaking her for an intruder. Steenkamp died on Valentine morning last year. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Nathi Mncube and criminal law expert, and practicing attorney, Tyrone Maseko to make sense of the legalities
Clive Ramathibela , Managing Member at Inkunzi Investments looks at: 1. Asian markets struggle to keep up momentum as worse than expected U.S data disappoints investors 2. Japan’s retail sales increase most in four months providing signs of recovery following the sales tax increment 3. China’s fake invoicing evidence increasing putting a dark cloud over transparency in reported trade data
Mohammed Nalla from Nedbank Capitals looks at: 1. Twitter falls 10% as user growth slows 2. Oil glut may help support global economy 3. Eyes on SA unemplpoyment today
The Department of Trade and Industry has announced the release of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Amendment Act No. 46 of 2013. The Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies says the operation of the Act is necessary in order to enable the department to perform some of the functions embedded in the Act. He says that it is also imperative for the development of subordinate legislation, and to ensure the effective implementation of the Codes of Good Practice. For more Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Chief Director for Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) at the Department of Trade and Industry, Takalani Tambani.
Clive Ramathibela, managing member at Inkunzi investments looks at :
- Asian markets raise as optimism is raised by financial health test in Eurozone
- Mario Draghi sets stimulus pace for the ECB
- Chinese mix economic data are starting to affect investor confidence
Police are offering a 150-thousand-rand reward for information that could lead to the arrest of the killers of Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa. The 27-year-old goalkeeper was shot last night during a burglary at a house in Vosloorus, south of Johannesburg. They say three men entered the house and one of them demanded Meyiwa's phone. There was an altercation and a shot was fired. sakina Kamwendo spoke to Gauteng police spokesperson Neville Malila....
The public protector Thuli Madonsela, has decided to take on review, part of the judgement by Judge Asthon Schippers in the Western Cape High Court on Friday last week, with regard to the constitutional powers of the Public Protector. AM Live host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to spokesperson for the office of the Public Protector Oupa Segalwe and conditional law expert Pier de Vos on the powers of the office of the Public Protector.
Senzo Robert Meyiwa born on the 24 of September 1987 in the township of Umlazi on the south of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. He joined the Orlando Pirates reserve side also known Yebo Yes at the age of 13 and was promoted to the first team on the first of July in 2005. During his nine year spell in the Premier Soccer League, Meyiwa had represented Pirates 157 times including last night's 4-1 win over Ajax Cape Town in the Telkom Knockout. A night before Bafana's 3-0 win over Sudan in Khartoum last month, he told the traveling SA media that his dream is to be one of Africa's greatest goalkeepers of all time
Mohammed Nalla , analyst at Nedbank Capitals looks at: 1. European bank stress tets results better than expeccted. 2. Brazilian election win for Rouseff 3. US reporting season thus far quite upbeat
In 1994 South Africa became a democracy; the African National Congress has been at the helm of the country's government and wields much political power. We have since talked about the shift of the economic power which still sits in the hands of the minority to the majority through radical economic transformation … We can see traces of the previous administration of the apartheid government through policies and structures in present day South Africa. The people of South Africa still remain on the side-lines shouting at government to deliver on promises and steer the country's economy towards growth. But have you for a second stopped and wondered who sits at the country's helm controlling the political and economic power? On the Forum @8 this morning we ask the quest; who rules South Africa? We speak to Proffessor Somadoda Fikeni, Political and Policy analyst who says 'he who has economic power has political power.
Clive Ramathibela, managing member at Inkunzi investments looks at:
- Green, Green, Green, Asian markets follow strong US markets as they rally regaining some of the losses from last week
- A weekend of protesting around the world, South Africa – e Tolling, UK – Government Employees, Italy – Illegal Immigrants, France – Gay rights activists, Hong Kong, China – Democratic rights
- Japan’s Minister of trade and industry resigns following allegation of misuse of state funds
Reeva Steenkamp's father, Barry, has said they are glad they only have to wait until tomorrow, to find out what will happen to their daughter's killer. Judge Thokozile Masipa will sentence the former international icon, Oscar Pistorius, found guilty of culpable homicide after shooting four bullets through a locked toilet door and killing Steenkamp. He was also convicted for the reckless and negligent firing of a firearm in a public place. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Marius du Toit of du toit attorney's.
Police say an ongoing investigation into mall robberies has revealed that there are several groups involved. The police say they have already linked four people previously arrested in separate incidents to eight other cases. Most recently, on Friday, seven people were arrested in connection with two separate incidents whereby a Telkom store at Irene Mall was robbed, and a shoot-out took place between robbers and police at Centurion Mall. Gauteng and the Western Cape have been hardest hit by a succession of armed robberies taking place at malls over the last few months. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the president of the SA Council of Shopping Centres MARNA VAN DER WALT
The Shrien Dewani murder trial resumed in the Western Cape High Court this morning. The British businessman is on trial for the murder of his wife Anni Dewani in November 2010. The trial resumes shortly after the death of the hitman, Xolile Mngeni. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to justice department spokesman Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga about Xolile Mngeni's death
Chris Gilmour , analyst at absa wealth and investment management looks at: 1) The Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement coming up on Wednesday-what kind of baptism of fire can Nhlanhla Nene expect? 2) The global economic backdrop that caused havoc on world equity markets in the past couple of weeks-now that the “dust has settled”, what caused this and what is likelt to happen from here on in? Are we past the worst or is there more to come? 3) Chinese Q3 GDP figures coming out on Tuesday-what are they likely to reveal? 4) Flash PMIs for US. Eurozone, Germany and France on Thursday-mixed bag? Highlights and lowlights?
Clive Ramathibela, Managing member at Inkunzi Investments looks at: 1. Asian markets show some recovery following the 6 month lows this week as optimism returns due to FED commentary 2. Why should Chinese economic leader decide on reducing its growth target for 2015 3. Google company results misses profit estimates as marketing efforts are reduced
Mohammed Nalla , analyst at Nedbank Capitals looks at:
- Red across the boards on stock markets
- Retail sales numbers locally and in the US
- Global deflation worries behind the current market jitters
Clive Ramathibela, Managing member at Inkunzi Investments looks at:
- Struggling Asian markets continue as they are pulled by "Red Bloods" on the US markets
- China September FDI recovers on month but still down 1.4 percent for the year
- Thursday investment destination - Taiwan!!
Today, the 16th of October marks World Food Day. It's a day the United Nations has designated to profile the importance of family farming and small farmers in producing food for the world. But while each year the world marks the importance of this day, the crisis of hunger is not improving. We're told, at least a billion people in the world suffer from hunger. Here at home, the Solidarity Economy Movement (SEM) and the Cooperative and Policy Alternative Centre (COPAC) have issued a warning that, 14 million South Africans go to bed hungry every night. AM live host Sakina Kamwendo chats Andrew Bennie is from COPAC
Mohammed Nalla of Nedbank capitals looks at:
- Red across the boards on stock markets
- Retail sales numbers locally and in the US
- Global deflation worries behind the current market jitters
Today Mohammed Nalla, Analyst at Nedbank capitals looks at local and international markets. Some reprieve on Asian markets as China provides stimulus. Will this last? Ebola still causing a scare in the US Finance Minister Nhlahla Nene calling for restraint in wage negotiations ahead of medium term budget. What are the expectations? Catch Mohammed Nalla Live tomorrow morning at 6:40
On Asian markets today, Homemade Economist Clive Ramathibela looks at;
Hong Kong stocks mixed despite protest activities taking a new turn Asian markets still struggle to take off as the US interest hike threats continue What do investors think is the reason for the recent volatility in the markets!!
Catch Clive Ramathibela tomorrow morning at 07:40 on AM Live 104 to 104 nationwide looking at Asian Markets and more
There are growing concerns that the government's multibillion-rand wage bill is growing too fast compared to the value it is generating. This as Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene is preparing to present his first Medium Term Budget Policy Statement to parliament next week.The public sector wage bill is one of government's biggest expenditure items, at 4 hundred and R39billion for 2014 to 2015. About 1.3 million people are employed by the national and provincial governments and their wage talks opened recently with a demand for a 15% salary increase. Sakina chats to Chief Economist Dr Azar Jarmine of Economtrix
Asian Stocks climbed further after the FED minutes increase rate optimism. Johannesburg Stock Exchange pulled back and Ellies drops by nearly 20% raising more concerns about the groups’ financial health. Homemade economist Clive Ramathibela from Inkunzi Investments looks at Asian Markets today
Arms deal critic, Terry Crawford-Browne continued with his catalogue of serious allegations during his testimony at the Arms Procurement Commission in Pretoria yesterday. The former banker claimed the late defence Minister Joe Modise's death might have been due to poisoning. He also claims the late SACP leader Chris Hani was on the verge of exposing Modise's alleged corrupt activities in the arms deal before his assassination. The SABC's Phumzile Mlangeni reports
Mining executive Bernard Swanepoel says the mining industry continues to be characterised by conflicting interests. Swanepoel is one of the conviners of the two-day Joburg Indaba on Mining. The gathering brings together mining executives, labour and government . Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the MSA group's managing director and founding member of the indaba, Keith Scott about the conflicting interests .
Arms deal campaigner, Terry Crawford Browne has continued to throw accusations at senior politicians who are allegedly involved in the leaking of arms deal-related documents. This time around, he alleges ANC stalwart and MP, Winnie Madikizela Mandela, allegedly leaked arms deal documents proving fraud and corruption took place during the acquisition process of the Strategic Defence Procurement Packages. Crawford Browne has been giving evidence at the Arms Procurement Commission in Pretoria. Phumzile Mlangeni has more.
The daughter of one of the Nelspruit-five says she wants to be a symbol of reconciliation. Candice Mama, the daughter of Glenack Masiko Mama, took the country by storm when she announced that she forgives Eugene de Kock who is responsible for her father's death. She says her family decided before their meeting with De Kock that they will forgive him. Izak du Plesssis asked Candice about her meeting with Eugene de Kock
Government is looking at a number of interventions to curb cable theft. It has emerged that the City of Johannesburg incurred 75-million rand loss in the last financial year due to cable theft. Big business says it's losing billions due to this practice and there are concerns that those arrested just receive a slap on the wrist. The problem of cable theft came under the spotlight at the three-day convention of Association of Municipal Electricity Utilities of Southern Africa, which is on its second day in Midrand north of Johannesburg. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the CEO of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) Neren Rau, on the scourge of cable theft.
Asian markets surge for the second day as momentum builds following China PMI numbers. Dollar Advances as Central Bank Decisions Highlight Policy Gaps. New York City’s Waldorf Astoria hotel is set to become the biggest prize yet for buyers from China who have been pouring money into U.S. real estate as they seek stable investments outside their country. Homemade economist Clive Ramathibela from Inkunzi Investments looks at Asian Markets today;
Government is looking at a number of interventions to curb cable theft. It has emerged that the City of Johannesburg incurred 75-million rand loss in the last financial year due to cable theft. Big business says it's losing billions due to this practice and there are concerns that those arrested just receive a slap on the wrist. The problem of cable theft came under the spotlight at the three-day convention of Association of Municipal Electricity Utilities of Southern Africa, which is on its second day in Midrand north of Johannesburg. Sakin Kamwendo spoke the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) Neren Rau, on the line to talk more on the scourge of cable theft
Residents of the small village of Moletji Ga-Maribana, west of Polokwane, were over-joyed after learning that their fellow villager, Lesetja Kganyago, had been appointed the new Reserve Bank governor. Kganyago's family and neighbours also wished him a happy 49th birthday today. Isaac Murwamuila and Tshepo Mongoai compiled this report…
The evangelist TB Joshua has sent a team to offer condolences to affected families on his behalf. Earlier Sikina Kamwendo spoke to, Kirsten Nematandani, a former president of the SA Football Association and a "fellow" of Joshua's church, who was sent to meet with the families.
This week on Coal Face with Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly we looking at high South African rail tariffs which are threatening to stifle a new R5-billion coal investment in Limpopo province and;
Broke junior mining companies are tumbling under the force of the huge headwinds confronting them
The Zambian government’s refusal to repay VAT claims back to mining companies is bringing new investment to a standstill. Tune in on SAfm 104 to 107 fm Nationwide on Friday at 07:50 fro another edition of Coal Face with Martin Creamer Martin Creamer
Clayson Monyela, spokesperson and head of Public Diplomacy at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation says the City of Cape Town did not follow procedures when planning to host the Nobel Laureate summit. Speaking to Sakina Kamwendo, Host of AM Live on SAfm this morning, Monyela said the South African government will always welcome the Daila Lama. The World Summit of Nobel Laureates which was to have been held in Cape Town later this month, was officially called off by Cape Town Mayor Patricia De Lille. This came after several laureates indicated they would not attend the event because South Africa had refused to grant a visa to their fellow laureate and Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.
On Asian Markets today, Homemade economist Clive Ramathibela from Inkunzi Investments looks at;
Japan topix leads Asian losses as protests in Hong Kong enter 7th day Brazil Stock decline as the economic outlook is blurred by government uncertainty What would you do if the reserve bank paid you back R250Million? Mark Shuttleworth Thursday Investment destination is Bangladesh Clive Ramathibela managing member a Inkunzi Investments will tomorrow at 06:40 on SAfm 104 to 107 Fm nationwide looking at Asian Markets
On African Markets with Victor Kgomoeswana this week; As the death toll from Ebola rises and the economic impact of the crisis spreads, the International Monitory Fund, the IMF, has stepped in to provide a total of $130 million of emergency financial assistance to Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, the three West African countries at the center of the epidemic and Kenya Airways, KQ, has taken delivery of its fifth Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Catch Victor Kgomoeswana every Thursday at 06:50am looking at the African Markets
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to announce a breakthrough in the political and security impasse in Lesotho today. His office says says in a statement Ramaphosa will address an important news conference in Maseru today, flanked by leaders of political parties and Sadec representatives. Ramaphosa has been mediating on behalf of Sadec for more than two weeks, talking to political leaders. His latest efforts were nearly scuppered by a firefight between the army and police and the evacuation of government secretary Moahloli Mphaka from his home outside Maseru yesterday. AM Live Host Sakina Kamwendo chats to our correspondent in Lesotho Nthakoana Ngatane.
Clive Ramathibela from Inkunzi Investments looks at Asian stocks Index which has retreated as US continues strong and the Hong Kong protests urge on, the markets are at their lowest since 2012. Business Confident up in Japan despite tough weak manufacturing data and China eases property restrictions as they are concerned about the growth outlook.
Post Office's Chief Operating Officer Mlungisi Mathonsi says they are urging employees to return to work as negotiations with labour unions continue. After a month of protests in the postal service, there appears to be no end in sight. On Friday, several Post Office outlets in Johannesburg were closed following threats of violence and intimidation by striking workers. AM Live on SAfm host Sakina Kamwendo speaks to the Post Office's Chief Operating Officer Mlungisi Mathonsi.
South African forensics team in Nigeria has completed finger-printing and DNA analysis on the South African victims of the Lagos church collapse. Forensic report revealed that of the 67 bodies initially though to be South Africans, three are Zimbabwean nationals and one is from the DRC but they had left from South Africa. South African government says it continues to cooperate with the Nigerian Government to achieve the speediest possible conclusion of the process. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Government Spokesperson, Phumla Williams
This week on African markets, Victor Kgomoeswana, author of Africa is open for Business looks at Commercial banks in Uganda wrote off over $77 million as bad loans in 2013 and deadly Ebola virus spreading through West Africa is sparking fears in the market that supplies of cocoa, one of the region's top exports, could be disrupted. Catch Victor Kgomoeswana every Thursday at 06:50am looking at the African Markets.
Some parts of Gauteng will experience water rationing starting from today to accommodate those areas that have been affected by water shortages. Rand Water has attributed the water problem to power failures to its various pump stations. Rand Water COO, Sipho Mosai says normal water supply will be restored by next week
Inter-Ministerial Task Team handling the Nigerian disaster where 84 South Africans died is to send one specialised aircraft to repatriate the deceased once the identification process has been completed. Government spokesperson, Phumla Williams says as soon as all the bodies are identified, a team of 70 experts from the Military Health Service and the Department of Health will be ready to depart to Lagos with specialised equipment to transport the deceased. 62 of the 115 people who died in when TB Joshua's church guesthouse collapsed almost two weeks ago, have been positively identified as South African nationals. Sakina Kamwendo, host of AM Live at SAfm speaks to Government spokesperson, Phumla Williams who says it makes logistical sense to bring back the bodies in one trip.
Three of the 26 South Africans injured in the Lagos church disaster are permanently disabled. 25 of the injured have been admitted to the Steve Biko Academic hospital in Pretoria. AM Live host, Sakina Kamwendo chats to South Africa's High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lulu Mnguni.
Homemade Economist and Market Analyst Clive ramathibela looks at Asian stocks dropping as investors assess China Flash PMI. The Rand and Emerging markets Currencies continue to be under pressure as the Dollar gains momentum Indonesia relaxes communication laws to curb out the monopolistic telecommunication sector Clive Ramathibela managing member a Inkunzi Investments will tomorrow at 06:40 on SAfm 104 to 107 Fm nationwide looking at Asian Markets
Clive Ramathibela from Inkunzi Investments looks at Asian currencies which are in the longest losing streak since January. Also who could be replacing outgoing Reserve Bank Governor Auntie Gill Marcus who will be stepping down on the 8th of November 2014. Clive also looks at crime statistics how do they affect our Economy.
Today Clive Ramathibela, managing member at Inkunzi Investment looks at the mixed but mostly negative Asian markets, Janet Yellen says no to interest rates hike and this week's Thursday investment destination is Singapore.
Nigeria has questioned a statement by President Jacob Zuma that 67 South Africans have died in the collapse of a church building in Lagos. Nigerian government officials say 70 bodies have been recovered from the rubble of evangelist TB Joshua's church, but that they remain unidentified. We speak to Director of News at the Voice of Nigeria, Ahaziah Sulieman
Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian markets which have returned to positive territory and the rand regains strength against the dollar, despite the JSE finishing in the red Clive Ramathibela managing member a Inkunzi Investments will tomorrow at 06:40 on SAfm 104 to 107 Fm nationwide looking at Asian Markets
President Jacob Zuma saying 67 South Africans died and scores of others were injured after a church building collapsed in Lagos, Nigeria, four days ago. AM Live on SAfm host Sakina Kamwendo chats to our correspondent in Nigeria Martins Oloja
Nadir Thokan from 27 Four Investments looks China's central bank which is said to be injecting 500 billion yuan into the five biggest state-owned banks to counter slowing growth in the world's second-largest economy.
Catch Nadir Thokan from 27 Four Investments tomorrow at 06:40 looking at local and International markets
Convicted paralympian Oscar Pistorius is free to compete for South Africa again, even after he was found guilty of culpable homicide. This is because the South African Olympic Committee has no regulations preventing someone with a criminal record from representing the country. Pistorius is facing a possible jail term, after being convicted of culpable homicide in the killing of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. He will be sentenced next month. Sakina Kamwendo talks to sports psychologist, Dr Ken Jennings about how an athlete's performance is affected following a conviction.
Homemade Economist and Market Analyst Clive Ramthibela looks at Asian markets which have fallen for the 9th day conservatively and China may boost gold reserves amid imbalances in holdings.
Join Clive Ramathibela tomorrow morning at 08:40 in the morning looking at the Asian Markets and other Economic news
Lesotho's coalition party leaders have agreed to shorten their governance mandate and bring forward the 2017 general elections. This emerged after a an emergency SADC mini-summit which was held in Pretoria last night. The main focus of the SADC Double Troika Summit was to discuss security issues in Lesotho and the DRC and find solutions.Spokesperson of the Department of International Relational and Co-operation, Clayson Monyela chats to Sakina
Eskom will today begin counting down a hundred days to the synchronisation of the first of Medupi power station's six units. Medupi is the first power station that Eskom has built in 20 years. Eskom Spokesperson Andrew Etzinger says the new capacity at Medupi will assist all South Africans
Author of Africa is open for Business Victor Kgomoeswana looks at Ethiopia which has managed to save $38.9 million it used to spend on gasoline imports, over the past six years by supplying ethanol blended benzene and Rwanda is now the most competitive economy in East Africa ahead of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Burundi.
Opposition parties in Parliament will today submit a motion of no-confidence in the National Assembly against Speaker Baleka Mbete. The DA, EFF, UDM, COPE and FFPlus, announced jointly, their plans to have Mbete removed from her position. They claim that Mbete is not independent and does not place loyalty to the country above her party. We spoke to DA Parliamentary Leader, Mmusi Maimane and first asked him what prompted this move
Clive Ramathibela, Economist and Market Analyst at Inkunzi Investments looks at Australian employers adding record jobs as currency jumps and Thursday’s investment destination is Indonesia
A Parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee to investigate the spending on President Jacob Zuma's Nkandla home has been re-established. The committee will have six weeks to study all reports and report back to parliament. We speak to Chairperson of Parliament's Ad-Hoc Committee on Nkandla, ANC Member of Parliament, Cedric Frolick
Homemade Economist and Market Analyst at Inkunzi Investments Clive Ramathibela looks at Asian stocks which continue to drop on China while the dollar gains some momentum and Xi Jinping visits India to tighten ties with BRICs connection.
Deputy Defence Minister and MKVA Chairperson Kerbby Maphatsoe has retracted his controversial statements against Public Protector Thuli Madonsela. Maphatsoe has been under pressure to apologise after he laid a scathing attack against Madonsela over the Weekend. His comments against the Public Protector were sparked by the Public Protector's Report into President Jacob Zuma's Private residence in Nkandla. Maphatsoe also came under criticism in the National Assembly yesterday afternoon. We speak to Political Analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni
Labour union Numsa's labour court bid to declare illegal, the lock-out being conducted by the National Employers' Association of SA (Neasa), has been dismissed with costs. Neasa says in a statement that after applying his mind to the matter for more than a week, Judge Lagrange found that the lock-out of Numsa members is legal. Neasa's Chief executive, Gehard Papenfus chats to Sakina Kamwendo
US ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard says he will lodge a formal diplomatic complaint about comments on the weekend by Deputy Minister of Defence Kebby Maphatsoe that the Public Protector Thuli Madonsela is a CIA spy. Maphatsoe reportedly told an unveiling ceremony on Saturday that Madonsela should tell the country ''who her handler" in the foreign intelligence agency was. We speak to the spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Co-operation, Clayson Monyela.
Clive Ramathibela, managing member at Inkunzi Investments and Market Analyst talking at Asian Stocks falling for fourth day as consumer shares drop and looks at how the price of milk could affect our lifestyles
Labour union Numsa's labour court bid to declare illegal, the lock-out being conducted by the National Employers' Association of SA (Neasa), has been dismissed with costs. Neasa says in a statement that after applying his mind to the matter for more than a week, Judge Lagrange found that the lock-out of Numsa members is legal. Neasa's Chief executive, Gehard Papenfus chats to Sakina Kamwendo
Clive Ramathibela Homemade Economist and Market Analyst with Inkunzi Investments looks at the fluctuating Asian Stock after China Trade Report and Japan's Economy contracts more than initial estimate. Join Clive Ramathibela tomorrow morning at 07:40 am on SAfm 104 to 107 Fm nationwide for your latest updates on Asian Markets
It's been more than a week since the Gauteng Advisory Panel begun its month-long public consultation process on the Socio-economic Impact of E-tolls on residents. So far arguments have been heard from Labour and civil society, expressing different views. We speak to Gauteng Provincial Government Spokesperson, Thabo Masebe for the latest.
Chris Gilmour from Absa Investments looks at how Scottish independence is pushing the dollar and what to expect this week on the South African Economy.