ECR Newswatch interviews and soundbytes: Recent Episodes
East Coast Radio
Hear the latest news soundbytes or interviews from KZN's No. 1 news team: East Coast Radio Newswatch. © East Coast Radio.
Tongaat-born surgeon, Dr Kirthi Ramdhani says her greatest achievement isn't about making history, it's proving that women don't have to choose between their careers and having a family. She has been speaking to Newswatch's Lauren Hendricks ahead of Women's Day. More news
An AI-powered clinical risk prediction tool has been submitted to SAHPRA for approval to help doctors detect critical illness before symptoms appear in patients. Netcare's Professor Reitze Rodseth shas been speaking to Newswatch's Kubobonke Luthuli about the technology. More news
A dog trapped for hours in a manhole on the Bluff in Durban has been rescued. Member of the community group Bluff RTL8 has told Newswatch's Lauren Hendricks that attempts to get help overnight were unsuccessful. More news
eThekwini Speaker Thabani Nyawose has blamed poor community coordination for delays in building proper water infrastructure in Adams Mission. He has been speaking to reporter Nhlanhla Mabaso, as investigations continue into the death of Celani Zungu, who was run over by a city water tanker. More news
Cyclists from across Durban are expected to gather for a memorial ride in honour of their late friend Wessel van Dyk this weekend. Van Dyk was riding in a dedicated cycle-safe lane near Moses Mabhida Stadium when he was killed in a car crash on Saturday. The motorist is facing charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and culpable homicide. More news
Snow has fallen on Sani Pass as the latest cold front reaches the southern Drakensberg. Michelle Stevens, who with the Underberg-based Southern Drakensberg Community Tourism Organisation, says they’re well prepared. More news
Flooding, infrastructure damage and hazardous travel conditions are expected across several coastal municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal. SA Weather Service forecaster, Ayanda Nsele has shared more details on the Yellow Level 2 alert that remains in place for the central and southern parts. More news
KwaZulu-Natal is on high alert as snow, heavy rain and flooding threaten parts of the province. The South African Weather Service has issued Level 2 and Level 4 weather warnings and disaster response teams on standby. Forecaster Nhlanhla Sithole shares more information on the weather systems expected to bring disruptive conditions. More news
The Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital is preparing to open the facility within the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department in October. More news
Justice has finally been served nearly three years after the murder of Durban metro police officer Errol Ogle. The Durban High Court has sentenced hijacking mastermind Mlungisi Mpanza to life behind bars. Ogle's grieving widow, Faith has told reporter Lauren Hendricks she never expected such a lengthy sentence. More news
A law firm says more than 300 women have come forward to inquire about joining a potential class action lawsuit involving a batch of incorrectly packaged birth control pills. More news
DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis is encouraging young people not to give up on South Africa.
"Undoubtedly the biggest challenge is the unemployment crisis in our country, behind that is the crime crisis and those are the two biggest thing that have to change if we are going top have a successful country and a successful society for young people going forward." More news
KwaZulu-Natal’s iconic sardine run could be just weeks away. Angling Times’ Vinesh Soogreem unpacks the latest sardine sightings near Port Edward, what ocean conditions are signalling, and why fishermen and spectators are already preparing for one of South Africa’s biggest marine events.
He also shares important safety tips for beachgoers planning to experience the run firsthand. More news
KwaZulu-Natal is rolling out a new Geospatial Information Management Strategy aimed at improving planning, disaster response and municipal service delivery. In this podcast,
Newswatch’s Lauren Hendricks explores how real-time spatial data could help cities respond more quickly to floods, sewage spills and infrastructure failures. The story also focuses on why KZN has been chosen as the launch province. More news
On World Bee Day, KZN beekeepers warn that shrinking habitats and forage loss are threatening pollinators critical to food security. Listen to why protecting bees matters for the future of farming and survival. More news
Princess Nandi Zulu shares why she is running marathons for charity, the discipline behind her training, and her mission to support vulnerable communities. Newswatch’s Lauren Hendricks caught up with the Zulu royal on her preparation for the Cape Town Marathon. More news
South African epidemiologist, Dr Jo Barnes says the virus was first isolated and identified in the 1950s.
She says there are about 10 000 cases a year, mainly in Europe and Asia and in South and North America. More news
Snake rescuer Nick Evans says a python rescued some 2km off the Durban coast could have slithered out of a boat taking part in the Durban Ski Boat Club Festival. Evan has told Newswatch Senior Reporter, Nushera Soodyal that the African Rock Python is recovering well... More news
Relative Vimalessan Pillay says through his engineering and construction business, Alan Monswamy created jobs for the local residents. He says he went out of this way to help the community and shared a close relationship with his workers and their families. Newswatch reporter, Lauren Hendricks attended Friday afternoon's media briefing with the family in Newtown Newark on the KZN north coast. More news
The husband of a murdered Pietermaritzburg nurse says her young daughter, who witnessed the attack, is battling severe trauma.
Aleyka Shaik was stabbed to death in Northdale last month.
Newswatch's Lauren Hendricks spoke to Shaik's husband Tristen Arjuna... More news
Questions are still being raised about whether the proposed new school History curriculum is truly inclusive.
Selvan Naidoo from the 1860 Heritage Centre spoke to Senior Reporter, Nushera Soodyal.
He has given a grade-by-grade breakdown of their concerns facing high school pupils. More news
Motorists could be in for another major blow as early data points to steep fuel price hikes in May, with diesel potentially rising by up to R8 a litre and petrol by as much as R6. Economist Dawie Roodt says global oil prices remain the key driver, despite a temporary fuel levy cut offering short-term relief. More news
Sedibeng caucus leader, Sibusiso Dyonase says if elected, his priority will be to attract younger voters and broaden the party’s appeal to marginalised communities. Dyonase spoke to Newswatch Senior Reporter, Nushera Soodyal ahead of the party’s national elective conference this weekend. More news
Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, says he believes he has what it takes to make the DA the biggest political movement in South Africa. Hill-Lewis spoke to Newswatch Senior Reporter, Nushera Soodyal ahead of the party’s national elective conference this weekend. More news
With South Africa having already entered flu season, a health expert is urging the public not to panic - but to act.
The flu season typically peaks between June and August, but this year it began earlier than usual in March.
According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, Influenza A and B are the most common circulating strains. More news
A Durban couple's long-awaited trip to Spain fell apart overnight as tensions in the Middle East escalated, leaving them facing rebooking costs that doubled in just a few days.
Jacintha Lambert says she and her husband had been planning their Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trip since November last year. More news
The South African Weather Service Forecaster Nhlanhla Sithole has explained how the short-lived tornado that formed near Bishopstowe, developed too quickly to warn residents.
The meteorological service says the weather system began as a weak storm just after 17:00 in a valley area on Sunday evening, before rapidly intensifying. More news
Tristan Arjuna's world has been shattered after his partner was murdered.
Aleyka Shaik, who was six months pregnant, was stabbed to death on Sunday evening in Northdale.
Her husband, Arjuna, says he and Shaik, who was a nurse, had spent the day together before she left, saying she'd be back for a meal together. More news
Commuters say they are worried about how the fuel price hikes will affect their transport costs. More news
Caylie Hauptfleisch, Erin Willmot's sister describes the traumatic experience they have faced since he was attacked and left with amnesia. More news
Brian Fell and Kurtis Kinsey are putting on a symbolic show of unity by carrying 65 kilograms of weights on their backs. They are going to walk through Mariannridge, Newlands, Greenwood Park, Sydenham and Wentworth on Human Rights Day on Saturday. Newswatch's Lauren Hendricks caught up with them... More news
Joanne Teunissen, co-founder of The Baby Line under The Durban North Baby Home, says the programme works as a counselling and support service for mothers throughout their pregnancy, and during the early months after giving birth. More news
A kidney failure patient is urging South Africans to prioritise kidney health on World Kidney Day, highlighting early detection, healthy lifestyles, and regular screenings to prevent end-stage disease.
Stella de Kock has been on dialysis for over a decade and has received about 2,400 sessions. More news
A nearly 3m black mamba was found in a Durban home ceiling, safely captured by a snake catcher, with sightings rising in March and during its winter mating season. More news
Residents from a Durban south community are coming together to support a mother whose son was stabbed in Thailand. The 29-year-old is recovering after surgery. A 10km fundraising run has been organised to help cover hospital costs and bring him home. More news
A Durban mother, who has used sanitary pads since she was about 10 years old, says women often have limited alternatives when it comes to menstrual products. More news
South African Breast Milk Reserve Founder and Executive Director, Stasha Jordan, says the organisation currently has only about one month’s supply donated milk in storage. More news
The owner of a KZN travel agency who has helped get dozens of South Africans back home from the Middle East says the war has interrupted acts of worship during the holiest time of the year for Muslims and Christians.
Israel and the US launched air strikes against Iran over the weekend - heightening instability across the region. More news
DNA testing will be conducted on a Nile crocodile found wedged between rocks on Pennington Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast to determine where it came from.
The freshwater reptile was discovered on Friday and taken to the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), where it received treatment. More news
" Look what I have now, a creation. A creation, waiting to be read and this is not the end. This is just the beginning."
Those are the words of 9-year-old Imari-Kenya James from the Bluff, the creator of a colouring book "One thing about two things”. More news
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has heard emotional stories from dozens of dairy farmers in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands devastated by the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.
On Friday, Steenhuisen officially launched the country’s mass vaccination campaign in KZN, the epicentre of the outbreak. More news
The sister of a Durban pilot who died in a plane crash in the North West says he was just two hours away from qualifying as a flight instructor.
Leeche Manuel died during a training flight last week. More news
The Community Policing Forum in Westville says the murder of a motorist in an apparent hit has left the suburb, west of Durban shaken. More news
A KZN woman says she's still healing and will soon begin therapy a week after miraculously walking out of a horrific accident that saw her vehicle plunge down a cliff. More news
29-year-old preschool teacher tells amazing and horrifying survival story after her car plunged almost 100 meters down a steep cliff inside Oribi Gorge. More news
A woman is recovering in hospital this morning after surviving a terrifying crash which saw her car plunge 100 metres down a cliff at Oribi Gorge. More news
The South African Domestic Workers Forum says while it welcomes the 5% increase to the minimum wage, it feels the adjustment could've been higher. More news
As KwaZulu-Natal melts under the brutal heat, parents and caregivers are being urged to prioritise hydration for young children.
Mbali Mapholi, a nutritionist at Laager Rooibos Tea, says children don’t always say when they’re thirsty, adding that in hot conditions like these, dehydration can affect their moods, learning, and physical performance. More news
A new digital lifeline has been launched for women and children affected by gender-based violence.
It offers twenty-four-hour support through a chatbot platform.
The 1000 Women Trust says the WhatsApp-based tool is designed to provide information and safe options without directing users on what to do, allowing women to make decisions in their own time. More news
South Africa’s wetlands remain under serious threat from climate change, pollution, overgrazing, and invasive alien plants.
That's the warning from The Endangered Wildlife Trust on this World Wetlands Day.
The organisation says stronger community-centred conservation is critical to protecting these ecosystems for future generations. More news
Mohemmed Ballim, Msunduzi's Deputy Chief Fire Officer, says firefighters worked for over eight hours to extinguish the flames. More news
An infant who was left alone in a shack in the south of Durban while his parents allegedly went out drinking is now safe and sound as "Auntypolice" comes to rescue. More news
KZN Red Meat Producers Organisation’s Angus Williamson says the industry understands the battle against the disease is state-controlled and regulated by the World Organisation for Animal Health. More news
Emergency services personnel have been working to free the driver of a minibus taxi trapped in the wreckage of his vehicle near Lotus Park. Thursday morning's devastating crash on the old R102 claimed the lives of 11 people. Newswatch's Nushera Soodyal shared details of the emergency operation. More news
Sun safety needs to be top of mind all year round.
Mazwai, a Managing Director for Universal Care, says they've recorded a 130% increase in non-melanoma skin cancer cases over the past eight years. More news
A legal expert says a landmark Constitutional Court ruling has strengthened protections for women by blocking antenuptial contracts signed after customary marriages.
Law lecturer Natasha Venter explains that the case involved a couple married under customary law, which automatically placed them in a community of property. More news
Residents in Pietermaritzburg are known not to beat about the bush when it comes to the state of some of their roads.
But one gaping pothole in Scottsville has been there for so long that it’s starting to grow on the locals.
Some residents of Scottsville have seemingly taken a leaf out of a neighbouring community's book in dealing with a pothole problem. More news
The Restaurant Association of South Africa says zero-tolerance alcohol laws risk punishing the economy instead of fixing behaviour.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has proposed a total ban on drinking and getting behind the wheel, saying it's driving carnage on the roads.
CEO Wendy Alberts says stronger accountability would restore respect for the law. More news
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has proposed a total ban on drinking before driving, saying the country's laws are outdated.
Currently, South African law allows a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 grams per 100 millilitres. More news
A KwaZulu-Natal dairy farmer says foot-and-mouth disease has torn through his entire herd of 1,300 cattle. More news
The family of a KwaDukuza traffic officer who was shot dead during a taxi robbery two years ago, says it has found some closure. More news
One of the affected residents in Kouga says he has spent sleepless nights ready to flee as flames inch closer.
Sebastian Pretorius, who owns a dog hotel named Bon Temps Doggy Lodge in St Francis Bay, says the flames are just a few kilometres from his front gate. More news
The community of Phoenix is demanding justice following the killing of a local policing forum member. More news
Final-year pharmacy students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal say they are worried about their future career prospects.
UKZN Association of Pharmacy Students says the uncertainty over internships is causing unnecessary stress and anxiety among students. More news
Questions remain over whether Discovery Health has any legal standing to demand money from medical aid members whose claims were incorrectly paid because of a system error.
The scheme says it's discovered that the glitch caused claims for over-the-counter drugs and prescription medication to be paid out of medical savings accounts at higher rates than allowed under certain plans.
The failure caused some members on the Executive, Comprehensive and Priority plans to reach the 'Above Threshold Benefit' earlier than expected. More news
From potholes to power cuts, a new app is putting service delivery directly into the hands of residents.
The app, My Street Champion, was created by Durban North community activist Sam Reddy. More news
With eight more sleeps until schools reopen on 14 January, an educational psychologist has encouraged parents to consider resetting their children's bedtime routines.
Nicola Buhr says moving children's bedtime earlier by 15 to 30 minutes each night, for at least a week or two, can help ease the transition, ahead of the start of the new school year. More news
Researchers are turning to the night sky for ways to improve mental health.
Stargazing has been found to reduce symptoms of depression and strengthen social connection. More news
A court ruling on the sewage situation in eThekwini has been hailed as a victory for the city's residents.
The Pietermaritzburg High Court on Thursday found the municipality in breach of environmental management laws. More news
uShaka Sea World says it’s monitoring a loggerhead sea turtle’s first movement in the ocean.
The marine reptile called DJ was stranded as a hatchling on Muizenberg Beach in the Western Cape in 2011. More news
A KZN Midlands family says the recovery of their six-year-old daughter from a serious head injury came down to the skill of her medical team and what they describe as a miracle. More news
There's been chaos in the KZN Legislature after the no-confidence vote failed. Take a listen here. More news
The South African National Blood Service in KwaZulu-Natal says it expects blood stocks to drop from next week as more people go on holiday.
It says it requires 3,500 units of blood daily, while it requires 10,000 O-group units of blood weekly. More news
A forensic investigation will be conducted into the matric exam breach.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has revealed that pupils at seven schools in Pretoria had access to Maths, Physical Science and English papers before they were written.
It was the markers who suspected there had been a leak. More news
A Stats SA report has revealed South Africa is making strides in the fight against poverty.
It examined poverty between 2006 and 2023 and shed light on how it's evolved over nearly two decades.
It found that 37.9% of South Africans or about 23 million people were considered poor in 2023 using the Lower-Bound Poverty threshold. More news
A KwaZulu-Natal man has pushed his wheelchair to the limit.
Muzi Fodo became paralysed in 2013 after being involved in a car crash.
Twelve years later, he's gone on a mission to help others have access to wheelchairs.
He wheeled nearly 190 kilometres from Harding to Durban for the cause. More news
Northlands Primary School’s First LEGO League team is gearing up to represent South Africa on the world stage.
The team, called Smooth Sailors, made waves at the national LEGO Unearthed competition in Johannesburg over the weekend.
They won the prestigious Champions Award, placing fourth nationally out of 72 teams, and earning their spot at the international event. More news
Doctor Judey Pretorius, a Biomedical Scientist and lecturer for Pharmaceutical Chemistry at North West University, has described the skin struggles of teenagers as the perfect storm of pressure. More news
While many people have started winding down for the December break, staff in the retail and service industry say they are preparing for the busiest and most exhausting time of the year. More news
The Department of Home Affairs has announced extended operating hours across its offices to help South Africans access identity documents and passports ahead of and during the festive season. More news
The father of a Durban woman who was murdered at a Westville pub says nothing short of life behind bars for her killer will bring peace to her family.
Taryn le Roux was shot dead in September.
Her husband, Fredrik Nicholas le Roux, has been charged with premeditated murder. More news
Durban's 1860 Heritage Centre says it's now using digital technology to preserve historical artefacts for future generations.
The museum's director, Selvan Naidoo, says the centre has begun a digitisation process.
He says the move is aimed at safeguarding the museum's collections in a province that remains vulnerable to climate-related disasters. More news
As the world marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities, an expert says South Africa’s workplaces are still failing disabled employees.
Professor Armand Bam says it's despite South Africa’s legal obligations under the Employment Equity Act and its global commitments under the UN disability on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. More news
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla has stepped down as a member of parliament for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.
The party's national chairperson, Nathi Nhleko, made the announcement in Durban on Friday morning. More news
As you get ready to take advantage of Black Friday bargains, a cybersecurity expert is warning about the pitfalls of online shopping.
Mike Bolhuis says store websites can be mimicked by cyber criminals to gain your banking card details. More news
The All Truck Drivers Forum says its members have embarked on a national shutdown on several major routes today. More news
Alleged tender don Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala told Parliament's ad hoc committee on Wednesday about his first meeting with Shadrack Sibiya.
Matlala claimed he reached out to the suspended deputy national police commissioner after experiencing issues regarding a clinic that had been leased to him by the Department of Public Works. More news
Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala has refused to answer questions regarding the R360 million Medicare contract awarded to the South African Police Service.
The alleged ‘Big Five’ cartel leader was testifying on Tuesday before Parliament's Ad Hoc committee at the Kgosi Mampuru Prison, where he is currently imprisoned. More news
A KwaZulu-Natal pupil who has won a Global Robotics title has described her creation as more than just a machine.
Sinead Samputh says her award-winning robot is a design to help people. More news
In our mission to highlight the real heroes working on the frontlines, we visited Sahara Shelter - a safe haven providing protection, counselling, and hope for women and children escaping abusive homes.
While there, we sat down with one of the incredible people making this life-changing work possible: Social Worker Lennie Gounder. More news
Continuing our commitment to spotlighting the heroes working tirelessly on the ground, we visited Sahara Shelter, a sanctuary offering safety, counselling, and stability for women and children escaping abuse.
There, we met Centre Manager and National Shelter Movement representative, Nadia Munsamy, who shared powerful insight into the critical work being done behind the scenes. More news
An international relations expert says she wouldn’t be surprised if the United States looks for ways to sideline South Africa during Washington’s G20 Presidency.
South Africa concluded its term on Sunday, after hosting what many world leaders described as a highly successful G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg. More news
The body of a woman swept away by floodwaters in New Hanover has been successfully retrieved.
Drone technology was used to locate her remains, while search and rescue teams relied on trackers and Tractor Loader Backhoes to dig through debris and sand along the river.
The middle-aged woman is one of three people who were reported missing after heavy rains battered the uMshwathi Local Municipality on Sunday evening. More news
Search and rescue teams have recovered the body of a woman from a river in New Hanover.
KZN Transport spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said many of the affected residents are believed to be foreign nationals. More news
An anti-GBV campaigner and men's development expert says South Africa needs more healthy masculine power to fight gender-based violence. More news
A former US diplomat has weighed in on the Trump administration's decision to skip the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg.
This weekend's meeting will involve 42 countries.
It's taking place on African soil for the first time.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance had initially been expected to attend the summit. More news
Non-profit organisation Project Rhino says the recent major rhino horn bust in Singapore is a warning that trafficking syndicates remain active and highly sophisticated.
Officials in the city state discovered 20 South African white rhino horns, weighing a record 35 kilograms, hidden in an air cargo shipment. More news
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group has created a digital safe space for those who serve others.
It's launched an online mental health support group. More news
North West businessman Brown Mogotsi has dropped more claims at the Madlanga Commission.
He testified on Tuesday that alleged criminal cartel leader, Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, told him KZN police chief Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi received a payment from him, and paid him money. More news
North West businessman Brown Mogotsi, who is at the centre of interference claims in the criminal justice system, began testifying at the Madlanga Commission on Tuesday morning.
Mogotsi is the first to testify on phase two of the commission's proceedings. More news
A teacher's union says challenges faced by schools across the province are systemic and will not be fixed overnight. More news
A snake bite expert says it’s highly unlikely that a Chinese centipede could make its way to South Africa.
This follows reports that a 36-year-old Mhlasini man was taken to Osindisweni Hospital, north of Durban, after being bitten by what paramedics from Reaction Unit South Africa believe was a venomous centipede early Friday morning. More news
The director of a local history museum has encouraged all South Africans to share in commemorations marking the arrival of Indian indentured labourers.
Sunday marks 165 years since the first boats arrived on KZN's shores from India, aboard the SS Truro. More news
Singer Holly Rey says using her voice in diabetes advocacy is incredibly important to her. She has told reporter, Tamasha Khanyi it has given her both the opportunity and responsibility to create change. More news
A former Wentworth woman, who has been elected mayor of a US city, says her journey has been shaped by displacement and resilience.
Benita Cotton-Orr will be sworn in as mayor of Sky Valley, Georgia, in January.
She says her family, who once belonged to the fishing community in Simon's Town, was forced from their land under the Group Areas Act and moved to Durban. More news
The UKZN's Professor Rajen Naidoo explains why the CHI² Project focuses on Grade 3 and 4 pupils, planned interventions after the study, working with government, global warming and rising African heat. Tsakane Mhlongo reports... More news
They began their voyage in the Caribbean and have cruised to the KwaZulu-Natal coast.
A group of sailors on a year-long mission to circumnavigate the globe arrived in Durban this week.
The international crew of 11 set sail from Antigua in February on an ocean adventure that will see them cover more than 23,000 nautical miles. More news
At least 500 lifeguards will be manning the shores of eThekwini this festive season.
The city's head of parks, Simphiwe Ndlovu, the Head of eThekwini Parks, Recreation and Culture, says both permanent and seasonal lifeguards are gearing up for the holidays. More news
South Africa and India face off in the Women's World Cup final in Mumbai. Sports reporter Faheedah Crouch spoke to KZN coastal and Dolphins Cricket CEO Heinrich Strydom about the team's achievements ahead of the thriller on Sunday. More news
A Durban mother and her son are suing HOMii Lifestyle for more than R4 million.
This follows the death of 22-year-old Andiswa Mantshongo, who fell down a lift shaft at the building in 2023.
It’s the same building where the Dlamini twins recently plunged four floors down another lift shaft. More news
The company that manages the Durban building where twin siblings fell down the shaft of a broken lift has handed over CCTV footage of the incident to the police.
The tragedy happened over a week ago at the HOMii flats in the CBD.
Eight-year-old Aphelele Dlamini died. His sister Aphile is still in the hospital.
Their father, Khaya Dlamini, feels Homii Lifestyle Management has failed him. More news
Two Durban men recently put their emotional weight on their backs.
Last week, Wentworth residents Brian Fell and Kurtis Kinley walked 42 kilometres from Umhlanga to their area, carrying bags weighing up to 30 kilograms on their backs. More news
A Durban photographer is making waves internationally for a striking image he captured during a sailing competition off the city’s coast.
The photo, taken during the Mirror World Championships hosted by the Point Yacht Club in April, shows two small red-sailed boats climbing a massive four-metre wave. More news
Hundreds of protesters have gathered outside a block of flats where two children plunged four floors down a lift shaft.
The tragedy happened last Saturday, while twins Aphelele and Aphile Dlamini played with friends.
Eight-year-old Aphelele lost his life, while his sister Aphile remains in the hospital. More news
A Durban family is grieving after their eight-year-old twins fell into a lift shaft.
One child died, while the other is in the hospital fighting for her life.
Their father, Khaya Dlamini, says the tragedy happened on Saturday night while the twins were playing in the building’s play area with other children. More news
Many homes and temples in KZN and various parts of South Africa are glowing with Diwali lights.
The annual Hindu festival is being observed on Monday and Tuesday around the world. More news
The Diabetes Alliance says children with Type 1 diabetes in public hospitals urgently need life-saving glucose monitors.
It says the devices are unavailable in the public health system. More news
The NPA in KZN has launched a province-wide anti-bullying ambassador programme.
The initiative, in collaboration with the provincial Department of Education and NPO TruLife, was launched in Durban on Friday. More news
A Durban-based child protection group is urging the public to share their views on a government proposal that could make baby savers illegal.
Baby savers are secure boxes where mothers can safely and anonymously leave newborns, triggering an alert for rescuers to respond. More news
Senzo Mchunu has been further questioned about his decision to disband the Political Killings Task Team and who wrote the letter ordering its disbandment.
Mchunu, who has been placed on special leave, testified for a second day on Friday before Parliament's ad hoc committee.
He's been implicated in claims of corruption and political interference in the criminal justice system, stemming from an attempt to dissolve the Political Killings Task Team last year. More news
An aviation expert has been sharing how pilots prepare for and navigate emergencies in the air.
It comes after two pilots were killed when their light aircraft crashed in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands this week. More news
The remains of the two pilots who were involved in a double plane crash in the KZN Midlands have been recovered.
It has emerged that one of the victims is a foreign national.
One light aircraft sent a distress call on Wednesday afternoon before disappearing in misty conditions. More news
Westville residents were met with an alarming sight as thick, white foam drifted from the Palmiet River onto nearby properties, filling the air with a strong chemical stench. Many believe it signals serious pollution flowing into the waterway.
Local resident Sharlene Versveld says the smell was so intense it was “an assault on your nostrils,” describing the foam as massive and widespread. She believes the contamination is deliberate and says the situation has become unbearable for those living close to the river. More news
Westville residents woke up to a bizarre sight: thick, foul-smelling foam floating through streets and collecting on properties near the Palmiet River. Many say the stench was chemical and overpowering, raising fears of pollution in the water.
Local resident and photographer Rorke Shirley captured striking images of the foam clouds towering above people and drifting through the neighbourhood. He says light rain may have stirred up contaminants in the river, creating the massive foam build-up that now threatens wildlife and could affect residents’ health. More news
Local ward councillor Melanie Brauteseth says urgent action is being taken after Westville residents woke up to thick, foul-smelling foam covering parts of the Palmiet River and nearby properties.
Residents reported large, airborne “clouds” of white foam with a strong chemical odour, believed to be caused by pollutants entering the river. Brauteseth says the contamination threatens local wildlife and poses possible health risks to residents. She’s meeting municipal and environmental officials next week to demand answers and accountability. More news
Search and rescue teams in the Midlands have found the wreckage of a second small aircraft that went missing in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday. Both planes were each carrying only the pilot, and flying to Margate on the KZN south coast. Nushera Soodyal has been speaking to Gregory Critchley from the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre. More news
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says South Africa is marking a new chapter in the fight against HIV. More news
KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka says the province is fully prepared for the 2025 National Senior Certificate exams. More news
Parliament has heard that Shadrack Sibiya had a good working relationship with KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi until there were arrests in the murder of rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes. More news
A group of Bluff residents has taken legal action against Transnet over what they say is a failure to stop an ongoing land invasion on property owned by the company in the Durban South area. More news
Lifesaving SA has urged parents and childminders to keep a close watch on children near water, including bathtubs. Tamasha Khanyi spoke to the organisation's Dhaya Sewduth about water safety measures ahead of the October school holidays. More news
A Johannesburg paramedic shares the harrowing moments he tried to save a passenger’s life on a FlySafair flight from Durban. The passenger had been cleared to fly, but a midair medical emergency turned the journey traumatic for everyone on board. More news
As the UN kicks off it's first official meeting on mental health, comedian-turned-advocate Barry Hilton shares his experiences with depression, ADHD, and dyslexia. Reflecting on childhood challenges, imposter syndrome, and life after COVID-19, Hilton urges those struggling to seek help and encourages everyone to listen without judgment. More news
Since Sunday, the two cheeky chimps have sent wildlife teams on a wild goose chase around Umbilo and the harbour. More news
Residents may have to put their Heritage Day braai plans on hold, with the South African Weather Service warning of heavy rain in KwaZulu-Natal. More news
A stowaway baboon, believed to be from Cape Town, has rescuers in Durban running in circles as they try to safely capture him. "There is a baboon, it's a young juvenile of about two years old. We don't know where he came from,” says Steven Smith from Monkey Helpline. More news
Claims of the Presidency meddling in police deployments to a crime-ridden area of Richards Bay have been heard by the commission of inquiry looking into alleged corruption and political interference into the work of the SAPS.
KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on Friday testified that in 2021, he sent a team of detectives to investigate the murders of several executives at Richards Bay Minerals. More news
A KwaZulu-Natal prostate cancer survivor is urging men to take charge of their health through early screening.
Dumisani Pakkies was diagnosed with stage three prostate cancer in 2020.
He says acceptance and family support helped him through his recovery. More news
The community of Malvern, south of Durban, says it's hopeful justice will prevail in the case of Zarah Ramsamy.
The 11-year-old girl was killed in September last year during a hijacking at a popular restaurant in the area. More news
A cook at a Pietermaritzburg crèche believes a little voice in her head saved the lives of the children, moments before a taxi slammed into the school.
Nombulelo Mfeka had been preparing food at the crèche in the morning when her "sixth sense" prompted her to act.
The clip is narrated by Newswatch's Lauren Hendricks. More news
The Constitutional Court ruled on Thursday that husbands can legally take their wives' surnames. More news
A Durban family says they haven't given up on the hope of seeing their daughter's killers behind bars.
Thursday marked a year since 11-year-old Zarah Ramsamy was killed during a hijacking in Malvern, south of Durban. More news
KZN has recorded the highest number of sexual misconduct cases involving teachers accused of abusing pupils. Tamasha Khanyi speaks to psychologist Rakhi Beekrum about the signs that could indicate a child is being abused. More news
Communities on the South Coast are appealing for stronger support from authorities in dealing with ongoing electricity supply challenges.
The Democratic Alliance in the Ugu District has launched a petition, calling for Eskom to set up a local customer care office to improve communication and speed up service delivery. More news
A KwaZulu-Natal man who was mauled by two hyenas on the north coast has been discharged from hospital.
Nicolas Hohls from Harburg in uMshwati was attacked at a camp site in Cape Vidal in the early hours of Sunday morning. More news
A Durban North resident who is on her way to Gaza as part of a humanitarian aid flotilla says she's doing it for her three daughters.
They are joining other activists from more than 40 countries on the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and American actress Susan Sarandon are among them. More news
The eThekwini Municipality Taxi Council has confirmed that no public taxis will be on the city's roads from Thursday onward.
Chairperson Mathula Mkhize says the city's regional associations will be meeting to stamp the move on Wednesday morning after attempts to engage the municipality over the last two weeks failed. More news
A father whose son was mauled by two hyenas in the Cape Vidal nature reserve says the attack has left him questioning the safety of the camp sites in the region.
Colin Hohls's son Nicolas, was attacked by the wild animals in the early hours of Sunday morning. More news
There must be a balance between enforcing by-laws and addressing homelessness, according to eThekwini Ward 35 councillor Bradley Singh. More news
Interpol Secretary-General Valdecy Urquiza says the police organisation will discuss major crimes such as drug trafficking, and also look at how it can support South African law enforcement agencies. More news
Bronwyn Edward, acting general manager for the Animal Anti-Cruelty League, discusses the organization's crucial role in protecting animal welfare. The league provides shelter, veterinary care, and investigates cases of animal cruelty. They operate as a no-kill shelter, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need, and rely entirely on public donations to sustain their work. Amid rising operational costs and expanding outreach, financial support is urgently needed to keep their doors open and continue their vital services for the animals and the community. Learn how you can contribute and make a difference. More news
Two years after Metro cop Errol Ogle was murdered, his widow Faith opens up about grief, forgiveness, and finding peace on the M7. Watch the full story on YouTube: tinyurl.com/hpcrfv7w More news
The incoming acting police minister, Firoz Cachalia, says KwaZulu-Natal will be at the top of his list of priorities when he steps into the role in two weeks. More news
Stuart Rayner is pounding Durban’s promenade in a 466km non-stop run to honour Nelson Mandela and raise awareness for mental health. He and three others will run for 64 hours because they believe, every step is a against stigma. More news
KwaZulu-Natal consumers say they are feeling the pinch as food prices continue to rise. More news
A political analyst believes there could be a link between the US's claims of a white genocide in South Africa and the fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk. More news
Elections expert, Terry Tselane, says the Electoral Commission Act does not stop a political party from registering based on a name. More news
A seven-month-old baby girl with a life-threatening heart condition urgently needs surgery, but it comes at a steep cost.
Kendreya Pillay, from Chatsworth has Down Syndrome and a congenital defect called VSD, two holes in her heart chambers. More news
The country's general elections were one of the most significant in the post-apartheid history of South Africa, according to former IEC Vice Chairperson Terry Tselane. More news
It’s not just adults placing bets on gambling sites anymore; kids as young as 10 are getting in on the action, too, according to the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation. More news
South Africa has come a long way since the establishment of the Government of National Unity. More news
A Durban psychologist has given some of the possible reasons why there has been a rise in assault cases in KwaZulu-Natal. More news
A blind student from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, who graduated cum laude with 14 distinctions, says while the past few years have been exciting, her academic journey has been anything but easy. More news
Hear the latest news soundbytes or interviews from KZN's No. 1 news team: East Coast Radio Newswatch. © East Coast Radio. More news
A Durban mother is recovering with her family, after surviving a devastating earthquake in Myanmar. Devika Hunsraj says the experience has completely changed her outlook on life. More news
As May Day is observed around the world, Cosatu in KZN says working conditions, victimisation, retrenchments and the gender wage gap are some of the challenges that still need to be addressed in both the public and private sectors. More news
A Bluff family say they are waiting in faith as the search for their son in the earthquake-hit Myanmar continues. More news
Hear the latest news soundbytes or interviews from KZN's No. 1 news team: East Coast Radio Newswatch. © East Coast Radio. More news
The father of one of the children who died at a nightclub in Chatsworth 25 years ago says his wounds haven't healed. More news
The death of Ashwin Trikamjee, the president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, has left a massive void in society. More news
The sister of Glenwood High School pupil Kayden Moodley, who died at the school, says her brother showed no signs of illness. More news
Skabenga, the Oyster Box's resident tabby cat, has passed on. The Oyster Box Hotel's PR manager, Joanne Hayes, says Skabenga arrived as a stray around two decades ago and never left... More news
Well-known Durban snake catcher, Nick Evans shares some insight and advice following news of a critical shortage of antivenom in South Africa... More news
Eleven-year-old Zarah was killed after hijackers drove over her as she lay underneath her family’s car in a bid to hide from the attackers. Her mom, Shay, now speaks of her healing journey. More news
Zandile Majozi, the National Assembly House Chairperson for International Relations, spoke to Newswatch about the state of readiness. More news
Director Cindy Lee shares her excitement about about her short film The Last Ranger being nominated at the 97th Academy Awards, She emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and highlights the power of film to deliver impactful messages. More news
Hear the latest news soundbytes or interviews from KZN's No. 1 news team: East Coast Radio Newswatch. © East Coast Radio. More news
Hear the latest news soundbytes or interviews from KZN's No. 1 news team: East Coast Radio Newswatch. © East Coast Radio. More news
A South African Medical Association has moved to alleviate growing concerns about the outbreak of the HMPV virus in China. More news
A Wentworth man is getting set to run from Johannesburg to Durban for a mental health campaign.
Twenty-five-year-old Taariq Stokes will join a group of other men in the Man of Valor run on Wednesday. More news
Former EFF chair, Advocate Dali Mpofu, has confirmed the uMkhonto weSizwe Party's his new political home. More news
Two university students who exposed possible fraud in the Social Relief of Distress Grant have told Parliament they believe the system needs to be overhauled. More news
A Durban bikers club is hoping there will soon be justice for one of their riders who suffered an injury in a hit-and-run, resulting in his leg being amputated. More news
Eskom in KZN says its teams are working to restore power to areas affected by the severe snowstorm. Since Friday night, a number of areas including Pietermaritzburg, Newcastle, Underberg, and Empangeni, have been without electricity... More news
Relief and recovery operations have been underway since the N3 toll route was reopened last night.
Thousands of people travelling on the national route were trapped their vehicles when snow brought traffic to a halt on Friday.
On Saturday, graders and rescue teams began clearing the area in the vicinity of Montrose in Harrismith.
The Road Traffic Inspectorate and other agencies have been escorting vehicles onto the southbound lanes towards Durban.
Motorists have meanwhile been urged to proceed with caution and drive slowly.
The Gift of the Givers was one of the relief teams dispatched to help.
Founder Imtiaz Sooliman says they distributed blankets, hot beverages, and food.
Listen to the full interview with Sooliman here. More news
A Verulam community activist says children need to feel empowered to speak out about abuse. More news
A Durban family say they are now living in constant fear after their house was ransacked. More news
Ferncliffe Forest, located on the outskirts of Pietermaritzburg, is under threat from invasive plant species.
Janine Stephen, one of the founders of the Ferncliffe Forest Wilding Project. Some invasive plants like Bugweed are trees that invade, some are like creepers, like the unbelievably thorny Mauritius Thorn. More news
A change in our retirement savings system is due to come into effect in just over a week, and economists are warning that even the smallest withdrawal is big in the long term. More news
A KZN woman who was holidaying at a popular Underberg hotel has described the moment a raging wildfire tore through the establishment. More news
Legal analyst Sunil Singh believes Home Affairs should have picked up any possible fraud when the mother applied for a birth certificate. More news
A South African woman who flew to Austria to see Taylor Swift perform says she's thankful and relieved that the police thwarted a planned terror attack in Vienna. More news
A local professor says designating historical buildings or places as heritage sites allows for the preservation of their rich history. More news
An elderly Phoenix woman who witnessed an armed robbery at the Plaza has described the pandemonium when gunshots rang out at the busy shopping mall on Sunday. More news
A mass IT outage has hit companies around the world on Friday, including South Africa. More news
After three years the Rhisotope Project at Wits University has successfully introduced low doses of radioisotopes (radioactive material) into 20 live rhinoceroses in their efforts to curb rhino poaching. More news
South African consumers are paying R2,279 more for food than they did in 2019. An average food basket cost R3,051 five years ago. The same basket costs R5,330 now. The price of onions, tomatoes, apples and samp skyrocketed by between 110 and 190 per cent. Mervyn Abrahams, who is a researcher at the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group, has been speaking to Newswatch's Tamasha Khanyi about what led to these increases... More news
It has been a week since a tornado tore through Tongaat and parts of the north coast, forcing many to take shelter after their homes were damaged. At least eleven people were killed during severe storms that hit KZN, with seven deaths recorded in Tongaat. In the aftermath of the twister, many residents were evacuated to community halls. Durbanite Shaida Adam says her relatives in La Mercy have been living in their car since their home collapsed. She says the tornado-hit areas are disaster zones… More news
Families in tornado-hit Tongaat are still piecing back their lives days after the area was torn apart in the storm. Some houses were destroyed, schools and some homes had roofs blown off and windows shattered. 11 lives were lost in the storm - including a teacher and a baby. A homeowner in Sabiti Estate - in Seatide - La Mercy describes what he heard - when the tornado hit... More news
Families in tornado-hit Tongaat - are still piecing back their lives - days after it was torn apart in the storm. Some houses were destroyed, schools and some homes had roofs blown off and windows shattered. 11 lives were lost in the storm - including a teacher and a baby. This woman's sister and niece were hospitalized - when their house crumbled around them... More news
Families in tornado-hit Tongaat - are still piecing back their lives - days after it was torn apart in the storm.
Some houses were completely destroyed, schools and some homes - had roofs blown off and windows shattered.
11 lives were lost - in the storm - including a teacher and baby.
Ricky Narainsamy - from Sandfield - one of the areas - which were badly hit says they had to pull people to safety.... More news
Former president Jacob Zuma, voted in Nkandla, arrived to loud cheers from a crowd of sup, porters at Ntolwane Primary School. More news
South Africans stood in queues at various voting stations on Wednesday to make their voices heard in the provincial and national elections. More news
The political door-to-door campaigns, rallies and preparations by the IEC have all come down to voting day. More news
A Westville woman who kept young lions on her premises insists they were well looked after and freely roamed their one-acre property. More news
KwaZulu-Natal's only independent political candidate hopes to secure a seat in the provincial legislature. More news
Durban basketball Rising Star Samkelo "Sam" Cele plans to continue making his mark in the Basketball Africa League after a successful debut season in 2023.
He chats with ECR Sports' Faheedah Crouch about his journey to big heights ahead of his second season with the Cape Town Tigers in the BAL More news
Opposition parties aren’t expecting any fireworks from President Cyril Ramaphosa when he takes to the podium this evening to deliver the State of the Nation Address. More news
With the matric exam results countdown under way, some pupils from the Class of 2023 say the wait has been stressful for them. More news
Scores of disgruntled ratepayers in Durban, including pensioners, say they have been slapped with unusually high water bills. More news
With Christmas right around the corner, toy stores are a hive of activity as parents race against time to get the perfect presents for their children. More news
A Bluff woman - who went viral after running over a smash-and-grab suspect - says she refuses to be a victim. More news
A coal truck driver and two weighbridge clerks have been granted bail of R2 000 each after they were arrested for fraud and theft of coal targeting Eskom. More news
The body of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has begun its journey to KwaPhindangene Royal Residence. More news
The Apartheid-era Victims’ Family Group - are celebrating a victory - after the courts ruled Hoosen Haffajee's death - a murder. More news
Dr Kamalina Coopasamy says it's crucial to detect childhood cancer at an early stage to avoid any further complications. More news
Carol Ofori checks in with Gift of the Givers founder Dr Imtiaz Sooliman following Thursday morning’s fire in the Johannesburg CBD, which claimed the lives of 74 people and left scores injured. More news
A landspout is what residents of Inanda and Phoenix witnessed on Tuesday afternoon amid heavy downpours. More news
The South African Weather Service says it is busy conducting an in-depth analysis to determine whether a tornado hit parts of Durban on Tuesday afternoon. More news
Russian journalist and co-laureate of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize, Dmitry Muratov, believes President Vladimir Putin wants to “build a new world and end the history of democracy”. More news
Police Minister Bheki Cele has arrived at the scene of this morning's mass shooting in Pietermaritzburg. Ten people - seven women and three men were shot and killed at a home in the early hours in Imbali. More news
Members of Parliament have heard the Mangaung maximum security prison's security systems were tampered with around the time of Thabo Bester's escape. More news
With the EFF's shutdown going ahead on Monday, some East Coasters say they remain uneasy ahead of the planned protest - despite government's effort to allay their fears. More news
ECR Newswatch caught up with DJ Tira at a prayer meeting this morning at Florida Road Park. This was across the road from where rapper, AKA and his friend Tebello Motsoane were shot dead on Friday night.
A freak wave was not behind the tragic drowning of three people last Saturday at Durban's North Beach.
The debate on the Phala Phala report began with some MPs calling for a vote on the matter to be via secret ballot.
The driver of a taxi that was carrying a passenger who had explosives says he went cold when he was told there were explosives in his vehicle.
Civil engineers have given the state of South Africa's infrastructure a dismal 'D' rating.
Durban's newest millionaire is still pinching himself. The lotto player had the winning ticket for Tuesday's R74 million Powerball Plus jackpot.
The stage is set for a royal spectacular in Durban.
The coronation of Amazulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini is already being marked by song and dance at Moses Mabhida Stadium, as guests trickle in.
Our reporter Steve Bhengu is on the ground and takes us through today's programme.
Durban's Moses Mabhida Statium's a hive of activity, where last-minute checks are under way. President Cyril Ramaphosa will present King Misuzulu kaZwelithini with the certificate of recognition.
Our reporter, Steve Bhengu is closely following the proceedings...
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department says it's in its final stages of preparation ahead of this year's National Senior Certificate examinations.
The annual Reed Dance is full of vibrant colours, excitement, singing, celebration and held with immense pride.
On Saturday, I attended Umhkosi Womhlanga at Enyokeni Royal Palace.
Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi says a review is urgently needed to deal with the backlog in housing provision in the country.
Some EFF MPs have been physically removed from the National Assembly after disrupting the start of President Cyril Ramaphosa's questions and answer sitting.
A new survey of South Africa has found that even though the country's economy rebounded strong last year from the effects of Covid-19, the recovery has been interrupted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Nomusa Dube-Ncube has been elected as KZN's new premier and has made history as the province's first woman premier.
Outgoing KZN Premier, Sihle Zikalala says members of the ANC must help the organisation to move forward and not become the centre of debate. Speaking at a media briefing on Friday afternoon, he's confirmed he's stepping down from the top job. He says it was a 'conscious' decision.
Officials were on Wednesday afternoon still busy at the scene of a fatal shootout on the N2 near King Shaka International Airport in Durban.
The SA Alcohol Policy Alliance says stricter laws are needed to regulate the activities of liquor outlets and licence holders.
KwaZulu-Natal taxi commuters are urged to put more money aside as taxi fares will go up from Friday.
The tabling of the Presidency's budget in the National Assembly started off as a shouty affair amid the theft saga surrounding President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Award-winning songstress Kelly Khumalo is eagerly waiting for her day in court to dispel allegations she killed her boyfriend Senzo Meyiwa.
Queues were starting to form at filling stations on Tuesday with a massive jump in fuel prices expected at midnight.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he gave the Arts and Culture Minister advice over the phone, telling Nathi Mthethwa to cancel the controversial flag project.
A student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Westville campus has made history by becoming the institution's first deaf graduate.
Durban Metro Police spokesperson Parboo Sewpersad says there are a number of road closures you need to be aware of around the ICC, where the conference is taking place.
Rescue personnel who travelled from Newcastle to assist in Durban's flood-recovery operations say they won't give up on the search for the dozens of people still missing.
Efforts to get to the body a woman underneath a collapsed wall at a home in Durban North are continuing.
A search continues for six armed suspects who targeted at a store in Sundumbili, in northern KZN. They held staff at the Boxer cash-and-carry hostage early this morning.
But ANC KZN spokesperson Nhlakanipho Ntombela says no deductions can be made until the conference.
EFF Chief Whip Floyd Shivambu says Russia and South Africa's relationship should continue.
Former ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe says he will not step aside from the governing party pending investigations into his role in the state capture web.
The wife of Rikhado Makhado, better known as Riky Rick, has given an emotional tribute to her late husband.
eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda has told the South African Human Rights Commission that his Facebook post in July last year about freeing Jacob Zuma did not incite violence.
South Africa's ambassador to Ukraine has described the terror gripping the country, saying some residents have sought refuge in basements and underground bunkers just to keep safe at night.
A woman has passed away in hospital just over a week after she and her children were shot in their Chatsworth home.
A Durban woman has begun her 1 500 kilometre swim to Cape Town to raise awareness on plastic pollution in the ocean.
Meanwhile, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema says sending jobseekers to the private sector is like sending cattle to the slaughter.
National roads agency, Sanral says specialist equipment had to be brought in from Durban to plug the valve of a tanker carrying LPG that overturned on the N3 near Ashburton last night. Both sides of the road have been reopened after an hours-long closure. Newswatch's Natarah Nadesan spoke to Nomsa Modise about the operation.
Housing, crime and unemployment are some of the issues South Africans want President Cyril Ramaphosa to tackle when he delivers the 2022 State of the Nation Address this evening.
Another Durbanite, Krien Govender, says he knew something was up when he scrutinised the payment method that the alleged tour company insisted on.
Durban resident Shanell Richards says a Valentine's Day package of a chopper ride from Virginia Airport ending with a picnic and game drive at a lodge in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park piqued her interest.
Lalela Mswane has arrived in KwaZulu-Natal to finally celebrate her Miss South Africa homecoming parade.
Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo has wrapped up his interview for the Chief Justice position after hours of rigorous questioning.
The Pietermaritzburg High Court has heard former president, Jacob Zuma has no right to apply for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal over the dismissal of the special plea application unless and until he has been convicted and sentenced in his corruption matter.
The remaining two suspects believed to have stabbed and robbed pupils at a high school in Pinetown on Wednesday are behind bars.
A legally blind Durban teenager says her heart is set on pursuing a career in law or psychology, adding that she'd made it this far despite the odds.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu has died at the age of 90, Dr Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town and Metropolitan of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa has announced.
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane has appealed to parents of children between the ages of 12-17 to encourage them to get vaccinated.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says preliminary festive season statistics show that there has been a 142% spike in crashes with multiple fatalities in the country.
Deputy President David Mabuza may be tasked with delivering the much-anticipated ‘family meeting’ this week, as the country prepares to head into the festive season.
A World Health Organisation (WHO) director says those living with HIV need to be first in line to receive a third dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy admitted on Wednesday that it had mistakenly added six cents to the petrol price.
Organisers of the Ballito Rage Festival have confirmed that they have decided to cancel the event, after 36 guests and staff members tested positive for Covid-19.
The KZN police commissioner says the former defence minister created the impression during her testimony before human rights commissioners that the province's police service did nothing during the July civil unrest.
A medical ethics professor says mandating coronavirus vaccinations would be allowed in the country, thanks to a limitation clause in our constitution.
The KZN provincial government has refuted claims that Premier Sihle Zikalala was chased out of uMkhanyakude District's first inaugural sitting yesterday.
The Automobile Association is reminding motorists and other road users that they have a responsibility of keeping the roads safe.
Epidemiologist Professor Salim Abdool Karim says South African scientists expected and prepared for a new variant and fourth wave.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has addressed the nation amid a spike in Covid-19 cases and concern over a new variant, dubbed Omicron, in the country.
Among the highlights of speech are that:
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SA will remain on Level 1. This may change as the President says the situation will be closely monitored on a daily basis.
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We still have too many unvaccinated people. Ramaphosa has urged those eligible for vaccination to go and get the jab. “This is the time for us to go and get vaccinated,” he urged.
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The COVID-19 positivity rate has increased dramatically in the past week. Gauteng is currently worst affected.
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The 4th wave is expected from early December
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Vaccination may become mandatory for certain activities. A task team has been tasked with investigating this.
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Mask wearing in public remains mandatory.
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The President urged South Africans to ensure they mingle where there is adequate fresh air | ventilation.
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Ramaphosa has urged countries which have imposed travel bans on southern African countries to reconsider these bans urgently.
Listen to the details in the address here.
The Health Department has confirmed that a new Covid-19 variant of concern has been detected in South Africa and seems to be behind a sudden rise of infections in Gauteng and other provinces.
A financial educator believes foot traffic in stores and malls will be lower on Black Friday this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic and more people turning to online shopping.
eThekwini's waking up to the news that Mxolisi Kaunda will wear the mayor's chain again after he was re-elected and sworn in at the municipal inaugural meeting on Wednesday.
The eThekwini council is about to start voting for a mayor after a raucous start to Wednesday's sitting.
The eThekwini Municipality is investigating security breaches at its inaugural council sitting that forced members to adjourn the meeting prematurely.
Convicted murderer and former Paralympian star Oscar Pistorius has served half of his sentence at the Atteridgeville Correctional Centre, west of Pretoria.
Nearly 97 percent of the municipal election results in KwaZulu-Natal have been captured.
Political analyst, Imraan Buccus expert says it's clear from the election results so far that smaller parties are beginning to eat into the electorate of the big ones.
There's relief from political parties and community leaders that voting day in Zululand was relatively incident-free. There had been fears of violence. Newswatch' Steve Bhengu reports that with the results coming in, the IFP is so far doing well in the region.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says it's still waiting for a report on an incident involving Democratic Alliance (DA) federal council chair Helen Zille.
There was excitement at Ntolweni Primary School in Nkandla on Monday when Jacob Zuma arrived to make his mark in the local elections.
Former president Jacob Zuma was expected to cast his vote in the local government elections on Monday morning.
Voting in the local government elections began on Monday morning with voters in KwaZulu-Natal trickling into polling stations.
Police Minister Bheki Cele says law enforcement is working around the clock to track the four kidnapped Moti siblings.
The family of the four abducted siblings is waiting for a ransom demand from the boys' kidnappers.
Six more health department officials are being placed on precautionary suspension after being implicated in the Digital Vibes tender scandal.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa says a forensic investigation has found individuals who were not eligible for funding from a package meant for artists received it.
A night vigil was held for little Liane, Carla and Maya on Thursday night in Timaru, New Zealand.
The Pietermaritzburg High Court has been taken through a transcript, apparently of a conversation between lead prosecutor in the Jacob Zuma corruption matter, Advocate Billy Downer, and an investigative journalist about the case.
The South African Medical Association (Sama) says the UK’s decision to keep South Africa on its red list for Covid travel restrictions doesn't make sense.
Only one monetary contribution of R2 000 was made towards the Multi-Party Democracy Fund.
Suspended ANC member Carl Niehaus has denied reports that the governing party fired him on Thursday.
The South African Weather Service forecaster Thandiwe Gumede says they expect the systems to start moving east onwards.
Community policing forums in and around eThekwini have pledged to continue protecting their communities themselves until rumours of a national shutdown die down.
Hearings into last month's unrest are underway behind closed doors in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
The court heard the state wants it's own medical practitioner to examine Zuma on his fitness to be present in court and stand trial.
Hundreds of EFF supporters have started arriving by bus in Phoenix, north of Durban, ahead of what the party is calling a march against racism towards Africans.
Police Minister Bheki Cele says the number of people killed in Phoenix during the unrest has risen to 36.
University of Cape Town law expert Cathleen Powell says legally, government can impose restrictions on unvaccinated people.
A Durban mother who threw her toddler into the arms of strangers to flee their burning building says while they are thankful to have survived the incident, they are still traumatised.
Peace Committee convener Chris Biyela says the suspects need to answer for the crimes that were committed.
Environmental Affairs officials say the fire at a chemical factory in Cornubia, north of Durban, was still burning by Thursday afternoon.
A toxicologist has given residents in Durban's northern areas, like Cornubia and Umhlanga, some crucial health advice.
A fifth alleged instigator of last week’s violence in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng has been arrested.
Scores of people in Durban also flocked to the few supermarkets that were open – and provided some relief to residents who’ve been desperate for basic food items. This man says he also queued for several hours.
Scores of people in Durban also flocked to the few supermarkets that were open and provided some relief to residents who’ve been desperate for basic food items.This 21-year-old woman says she and her mum had stood in a queue that stretched around a block from 8 am but didn’t make it inside the shop.
Stun grenades and rubber bullets have been fired at hundreds of people looting warehouses on Queen Nandi Drive in Durban.
Newswatch was on the scene in Lamontville, where looters appeared to be mostly interested in food stuffs.
The Makro store in Durban’s Springfield area is being stripped as some looters move beyond helping themselves to just items on the store shelves.
The Makro store in Durban’s Springfield area has been stripped as some looters move beyond helping themselves to just items on the store shelves.
The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) confirmed that its taxi services will not operate in KwaZulu-Natal over safety fears amid the civil unrest.
Ace Magashule has lost his bid to have his suspension by the African National Congress (ANC) declared unlawful.
Suspended uMkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans' Association (MKMVA) spokesperson Carl Niehaus has been arrested outside the Estcourt Correctional Centre for contravention of lockdown regulations.
Former president Jacob Zuma has spent his first night inside Estcourt Correctional Centre.
Jacob Zuma's lawyer has told the Pietermaritzburg High Court it does have jurisdiction to make a ruling on the former president's application to have his arrest order stayed pending his Constitutional Court appeal.
A legal expert says one of two things could happen when former president Jacob Zuma's urgent application to avoid arrest is heard in the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Tuesday.
Zuma has five days to hand himself over to the police in order to start serving his jail sentence.
The Education Department says it's encouraged by the thousands of teachers who came forward to take the Covid-19 vaccine.
Geological experts say the gemstones that sparked a diamond rush in Ladysmith have turned out to be quartz crystals.
Scores of motorists stuck in a massive traffic jam in their cars and trucks have had to brave icy rain and a cold spell in Ashburton on Wednesday evening.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of disruptive scattered showers and thundershowers throughout KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.
Judges, magistrates, the public protector and commissioners of the human rights commission will not be getting a salary increase for 2020/2021.
Former president Jacob Zuma has pleaded not guilty to over a dozen charges, including fraud, corruption and money laundering.
Norma Gigaba says she wants to clarify the personal affairs between her and her estranged husband, Malusi Gigaba, that played out in the public eye.
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize says at least 11 000 people were vaccinated on Monday at the start of Phase Two of the coronavirus vaccine rollout.
It's moments before the start of Jacob Zuma's corruption trial, and the former president's supporters are trickling in slowly into the Pietermaritzburg court precinct.
The Department of Public Works will issue out tenders as part of its long term solution to secure the country's borders.
The late Queen Mantfombi Dlamini Zulu has been hailed as a peace-builder and a conflict resolution champion.
Mourners have been streaming into Empangeni Rugby Club, in northern KZN, where Lindani Myeni's memorial service is underway.
Former state security minister Bongani Bongo, his former wife Sandile and ten others will go on trial next January.
Newswatch Steve Bhengu has filed this report from the royal palace of KwaKhangela, detailing the chaos boiling over what is meant to be a graceful sendoff for the Zulu queen regent, Mantombi Dlamini-Zulu.
More details are expected to emerge from Nongoma today, on how the Zulu royal family will decide to bid farewell to their late Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu.
Political parties in KZN have been reacting to the death of the Regent of the Zulu nation - Queen Shiyiwe Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu.
Advocate Paul Pretorious explains why he needs to explore the affidavits submitted by two senior diplomats with regards to contributions party members are allegedly expected to pay
The grieving mother of a 17-year-old girl from Demat, murdered in Lamontville, recalls the last time saw her child alive.
A Durban spear fisherman got more than he bargained for when he emerged from the ocean with a baby shark tooth lodged in his head. Listen to his account of his close encounter.
Moses Tembe, father of late Anele Tembe speaks at her funeral. She is being laid to rest days after she tragically died in Cape Town.
Gale force winds that are blowing along KZN's coastal areas - are expected to last throughout the day.
DA's Alf Lees talks about the murder of a 46-year-old wheelchair-bound farmer in Winterton, this past weekend.
Newswatch's Steve Bhengu goes into detail on the student unrest outside Mangosuthu University of Technology in Umlazi.
Newswatch's Steve Bhengu describes the chaotic scenes of police and protesters clashing at DUT's Steve Biko campus. This follows morning demonstrations after being unable to register at the university.
Nick Evans explains how a resident who had learned of a cattle herder who captured a python and had intended to eat it - talked him out of it and convinced him to hand it over to the snake rescuer.
Jayshree Parasuramen spoke with Senior Superintendent, Parbhoo Sewpersad to give you and all visitors to our province some advice ahead of this festive weekend.
South Africa’s lockdown alert will remain at level one but there will be adjustments to regulations effective from Friday, 2 April.
A heartbroken KwaZulu-Natal mother says her son, who tried to escape from armed fighters in northern Mozambique, suffered a violent and unnecessary death.
Anti-apartheid activist, Charm Govender has been described as a true soldier of the struggle. He was laid to rest yesterday in Durban after passing away on Monday.
India says it's detected what it's describing as a “double mutant variant” of the novel coronavirus.
The co-chair of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Covid-19, Professor Abdool Karim says the description is not accurate.
It's exactly a year since President Cyril Ramaphosa imposed a 21-day hard lockdown - as South Africans came to terms with the reality of COVID-19.
Heartfelt tributes are being paid to King Goodwill Zwelithini at his memorial service, at the Kwa-Khethom-Thandayo Royal Palace in Nongoma.
A massive spill in the Amanzimnyama Canal in the south of Durban has sparked concern with an activist saying it's a ticking time bomb for the environment.
Police Minister Bheki Cele has reacted to the death of a 35-year-old man who died after being shot during yesterday's student protest in Johannesburg.
The e-hailing service community says it's growing increasingly worried about the safety of drivers after one of their own was found dead in Durban.
Political analyst, Dr Imraan Buccus believes both the ANC and former president, Jacob Zuma are in a difficult position because of the state capture matter.
Political analyst, Dr Imraan Buccus believes both the ANC and former president, Jacob Zuma are in a difficult position because of the state capture matter.
An elderly Kloof man who went missing this week has been found dead. Eighty-five-year-old Francois Coertzen was last seen walking to a local shop on Wednesday.
Standard Bank's CEO has apologised to customers after a technical glitch led to money being deducted from the accounts of hundreds of cheque and debit cardholders.
Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu's described the adrenaline rush, upon hearing the news about our very first case of COVID-19.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says a men's parliament needs to be set up. He made the comments during the opening of the House of Traditional Leaders earlier.
The DA's Nicole Graham says serving the people of eThekwini, as a councillor, has given her the confidence she needs to embark on the next chapter of her political journey.
A money coach says the personal income tax relief announced by the Finance Minister yesterday will give many taxpayers room to breathe.
The eThekwini Municipality is working towards avoiding major water disruptions across the city.
The high number of drownings in the province is a serious cause for concern says the National Sea Rescue Institute.
South Africa’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout programme, boosting the unemployment rate, economic recovery and fighting corruption were among a myriad of key points discussed by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2021 State of the Nation Address on Wednesday evening.
A local nightclub owner says the impact of the lengthy COVID-19 ban has crippled the clubbing industry.
South Africa will move to a new adjusted, lockdown level three as of midnight, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed in an address to the nation on Monday evening.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is vital that no South African is left behind during government’s Covid-19 vaccination drive.
A group of surfers has taken to the water in Durban in protest over what they say are senseless restrictions under the current Level 3 lockdown.
A survey by the Beer Association of SA has shown that seven out of every eight craft brewers in the country might not survive the alcohol ban.
The commission of inquiry into state capture has heard of several unlawful projects undertaken by the State Security Agency (SSA) during former president Jacob Zuma's tenure.
Solidarity and AfriForum say they're preparing court papers to challenge government's implementation plan for the coronavirus vaccines.
As tropical storm, Eloise passes South African shores on Sunday, parts of KZN will be affected according to the South African Weather Service.
A case of mistaken identity turned what was supposed to be a casual brown house snake rescue, into an intense chase after a 2.2 metre long Black Mamba in a Clairwood home.
Rolling blackouts resumed mid-last week, with Eskom saying several generation units had broken down while a few hadn't yet returned from maintenance.
By November, there were over 3 800 confirmed coronavirus infections reported at the country's universities.
Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the devastating building fire in Musgrave, north of Durban.
The Hawks in the Northern Cape have arrested an immigration officer working for the Department of Home Affairs in Postmasburg.
The Broadcasting, Electronic, Media and Allied Workers Union (Bemawu) says it will be meeting officials of sister union, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) on Wednesday morning to discuss the retrenchment process at the SABC.
The family of an elderly woman who was seen in a video screaming for help at Durban's Wentworth Hospital has revealed she died at the facility.
Minister of Health Zweli Mkhize has announced that South Africa will receive one million dosed of Covid-19 vaccine from Serum Institute of India by this month.
Minister of Health Dr Zweli Mkhize says Treasury is aware that government will have to carry most of the costs for the procurement of a Covid-19 vaccine.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has adjusted South Africa’s COVID-19 alert level from lockdown level one to level three, effective from midnight tonight and will remain in place until the 15th of January.
ECR traffic reporter, Jayshree Parasuramen speaks to KZN MEC Bheki Ntuli about the festive season roll-out plan for KZN's roads.