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. 1.Australians are investing in a new vanadium mine in Limpopo. 2.The revival of copper mining in the Northern Cape this week received yet another positive nudge forward. 3.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. 1. Global mining gathered at the business conference in Davos has committed itself to being Nature-positive. 2. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange is ready to help with the raising of capital to fund the mining of critical minerals. 3. 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. 1. South Africa's new R105-billion green ammonia project is going to be a big boost for the Eastern Cape.   2. A Johannesburg-listed mining company is recovering valuable copper from old mine dumps in Zambia. 3. 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. 1. Next year's Olympics will be hydrogen driven which is a big boost for South Africa's platinum mining. 2. Critical rare earth minerals being mined in Phalaborwa this week caught the eye of global investors. 3. 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. 1. South Africa's biggest mining company has already cut a fifth of its carbon emissions. 2. Hillside Aluminium in KwaZulu-Natal is investigating ways of reducing its carbon intensity. 3. 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. 1. Sun and wind energy is being laid on for seven Anglo-American mines across four provinces. 2. Green hydrogen is being used instead of petrol for two cars that are being driven around South Africa emission-free. 3. 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 Ameer 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. 1. Another South African gold mine is going green with the generation of 30 MW of solar power in the Free State. 2. An India-controlled zinc mine in the Northern Cape this week struck a deal to generate its own clean electricity. 3. 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. 1. Major global mining companies this week singled out Africa as their biggest and best investment destination. 2. It is impossible for the world to fight off the huge climate change threat without metals and minerals from Africa. 3. 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. 1. Gold is being taken out of the West Rand mine dumps in an impressive new R2.5-billion development project. 2. A new opencast mine will begin producing platinum group metals in Limpopo by year-end. 3. 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. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to  Daily Maverick freelancer Heidi Swart 

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. 1. This week, The big Impala Platinum mine took steps to generate its own electricity for its mining operations. 2. Gold in Gauteng's old dumps must be recovered to boost the economy, a meeting in the Golden City heard this week. 3. 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