Early Breakfast with Abongile Nzelenzele

Guest: Jennifer Ball | Programme Director Africa Melane speaks to Jennifer Ball, Programme Director for The Franschhoek Literary Festival which kicks off From 16–18 May See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane is joined by Prof Linda Gail-Bekker of the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation to unpack the dual crisis facing South Africa’s HIV response: thousands of healthcare jobs lost due to US funding cuts, and a worrying rise in infections among older adults amid growing public complacency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Africa Melane in conversation with Sarah Scarth of Operation Smile South Africa, as they discuss a landmark weekend surgical marathon helping 40 children receive cleft lip and palate surgery at Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane speaks to Liezel van der Westhuizen who brings you, your weekend fitness guide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane is joined by Advocate Paul Hoffman, a law expert and director at the Institute for Accountability in Southern Africa, the conversation unpacks the treason investigation into AfriForum and Solidarity. With an understanding of what treason entailsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

80% of South Africans die without a valid will. Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. Bryan Nicol joins Africa Melane to unpack the importance of wills and estate planningSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how to recharge your energy, loosen up stiff muscles, and improve your posture without ever leaving your desk. In this exclusive talk radio feature, fitness presenter and mental fitness coach Liezel van der Westhuizen shares powerful, practical chair workouts perfect for busy professionals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Stephan de Wet | Chairperson Financial Planning Institute's Tax Competency Committee Africa Melane speaks to Stephan de Wet from the FPI on the looming tax blitz aimed at recovering R70 billion in unpaid revenue. With 500 new agents and a focus on compliance, could this reshape the tax landscape in South Africa?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stage 2 load shedding is back — Africa Melane speaks to IMPOWER energy expert Matthew Cruise about Eskom’s latest challenges. With over 13,000MW in losses, delayed maintenance, and rising winter demand, is the grid more fragile than Eskom admits?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane speaks to the Heart and Stroke Foundation SA’s Health Promotion & Health Risk Assessment Programme Team Lead, Sister Juandre Watson during Salt Awareness Week 2025. Discover how to slash your salt intake, protect your heart and brain, and live healthier.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fitness presenter - Liezel van der Westhuizen shares expert-backed insights alongside top medical professionals to spotlight the urgent call to action: get your blood pressure checked this May—for free. Learn why this five-minute test is a gamechanger, what’s keeping so many from getting treated, and how lifestyle changes can drastically reduce your risk of stroke, heart disease, and even dementia. Don’t miss this critical health conversation on prevention, control, and mental resilienceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Julius Kleynhans | OUTA Executive Manager: Local Government Division Africa Melane is joined by OUTA Executive Manager: Local Government Division, Julius Kleynhans to unpack why Gauteng has returned over R1 billion in unspent funds to the National Treasury. The Gauteng health and education departments were the biggest sectors affected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Department of Health Spokesperson Foster Mohale speaks to Africa Melane about the urgent rollout of new nurse appointments amid rising threats at healthcare centers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We take a closer look at why South Africans may be travelling less — Africa Melane is joined by Brett Tungay, East Coast Chairman for (FEDHASA), to unpack the pressures facing domestic tourism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever feel guilty for skipping weekday workouts? Weekend warriors reap major health benefits too! Liezel van der Westhuizen explains how 2-day workouts stack up against daily fitness in this expert-led chat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Simon Hlungwani |Denosa President Africa Melane speaks to DENOSA’s President Simon Hlungwani to commemorate International Nurses Day 2025. This year’s message is clear: Care for nurses if we want resilient health systems. South Africa’s nurses are burnt out, underpaid, and overworked. What must change? Tune in for a critical conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane speaks to Thandiwe Mathibela, PR at South African Tourism ahead of Africa’s Travel Indaba this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding rental deposits is crucial for both tenants and landlords. In this insightful discussion, Africa Melane interviews Gary Phelps from Icon Property to explore how deposits should be handled.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how yoga builds mental fitness, emotional clarity & resilience. Fitness presenter Liezel van der Westhuizen shares her transformative retreat insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Marks Maponyane | Soccer analyst Join Africa Melane in conversation with legendary soccer player and analyst, Marks Maponyane as they break down the tactical battles, key players, and what to expect when Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates clash in the Nedbank Cup FinalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert joins Africa Melane to discuss what can be done — practically and immediately — to change driver behaviour, reduce fatalities, and create a culture of accountability on our roads.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Africa Melane in conversation with Dr. Marinda van Niekerk, CEO of PEN, about a national movement bringing comfort and warmth to South Africa’s most vulnerable this winterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane speaks to Liezel van der Westhuizen who brings you, your weekend fitness guide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Lance Thomas |Project manager at UP's Centre for Faith and Community As cardinals begin the sacred process of electing the next pope, Africa Melane speaks to Lance Thomas, Project manager at UP's Centre for Faith and Community to explore the Church’s internal tensions and the global implications of this momentous decisionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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New VAT rules for digital services take effect in South Africa from 1 April 2025. Tax attorney, Bronwin Richards joins Africa Melane to break down the key changes and what businesses must do to stay compliantSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Eleanor Mavimbela | Spokesperson of the Automobile Association Africa Mealne speaks to Spokesperson of the Automobile Association, Eleanor Mavimbela as Johannesburg’s transport system is under fire after losing R313m in national funding due to Rea Vaya’s ongoing collapse. From broken buses to empty stations, the city’s mismanagement has real costs for commuters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The DA opened a culpable homicide case against JPC CEO Helen Botes over the fatal Usindiso fire that killed 77 people. Africa Melane speaks to DA Chief Whip, Nicole Rahn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane chats to Lauren Blythe, founder of SOLIETTE, about how to treat your skin with the care it deserves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join fitness expert Liezel van der Westhuizen, renowned fitness presenter and mental fitness coach, as she shares exclusive insights on the Booty Builder at Planet Fitness. This game-changing equipment is designed to give your glutes the love they deserve with proper activation and injury prevention. Learn why glute strength is key to better posture, improved athletic performance, and injury-free workouts. Get expert advice on building your glutes the smart way with Liezel’s tips and the only Booty Builder in South Africa at Planet FitnessSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Deon van Zyl | Chairperson of the Western Cape Property Development Forum Africa Melane speaks with Deon van Zyl, Chairperson of the Western Cape Property Development Forum, as South Africa marks one year since the George building collapse that claimed 34 lives. The conversation centers on accountability and the urgent need for greater transparency and safety in construction practices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Africa Melane is in conversation with the Director of the Black Management Forum, Monde Ndlovu. The discussion explores the DA’s challenge to the Employment Equity Act, the progress made in workplace transformation, and the broader social and economic impact such a legal battle may have on South Africans still excluded from full economic participationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as Kele Lekalake of Harvey World Travel shares why off-season is the smartest time for South Africans to explore the world — with cheaper flights, luxury stays, and fewer crowds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mental fitness coach and wellness presenter Liezel van der Westhuizen shares how her immersive training at The Nepal Yoga Home—where she earned her Level 1 and Level 2 certifications in Himalayan singing bowl therapy—has transformed her coaching practice. Whether you’re chasing deadlines or craving deeper stillness, this ancient practice is no longer a luxury—it’s a modern necessity for anyone seeking balance in today’s high-speed world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Mluleki Mbhele |Western Cape Secretary for the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) In light of the recent tragic shootings of two off-duty police officers in Cape Town, Africa Melane speaks to Popcru’s Western Cape secretary, Mluleki Mbhele about the growing threat to police personnel, the impact on officer safety, and what must be done to protect those who serve and protect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

s Defence Minister Angie Motshekga and SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya confirm South Africa’s phased withdrawal from the DRC, defence analyst Helmoed Heitman weighs in on the implications for regional security and peacebuilding with Africa Melane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding rental deposits is crucial for both tenants and landlords. In this insightful discussion, Africa Melane interviews Gary Phelps from Icon Property to explore how deposits should be handled.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Struggling to fall asleep? Discover TikTok's viral House Tour Sleep Hack, a technique that promises to help you drift off faster by clearing your mind. Join fitness presenter and mental fitness coach, Liezel van der Westhuizen, as she shares her expert insights on this innovative sleep method. Learn how guided imagery can reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance relaxation. Don't miss this insightful conversation on Cape Talk and 702 Early Mornings with Africa Melane and Liezel van der Westhuizen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Vuyani Joni | Editor at Soccer Laduma Zain Johnson speaks to Vuyani Joni, Editor at Soccer Laduma to preview the game against Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates this weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zain Johnson speaks to Clive Human, Director at STOP (Standing Together to Oppose Pornography), about South Africa’s recent record-breaking child pornography sentence—and the growing threat of child sexual exploitation nationwide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 9Miles Project invites you to the first-ever 100Wave Challenge — a powerful day of surfing, community, and giving back at Strandfontein Pavilion. Zain Johnson speaks to Margo Carelse, PR and Marketing Specialist for 9 Miles Project. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, every wave you ride helps raise funds to uplift at-risk youth through mentorship, education, and safe spaces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zain Johnson speaks with Niall Maloney, one of eight brave friends taking on the icy Robben Island swim — in nothing but speedos — to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Martelie Burger |Optometrist & Director responsible for Private Practice at The SA Optometric Association (SAOA) Join Zain Johnson in conversation with Optometrist & Director responsible for Private Practice at The SA Optometric Association (SAOA), Martelie Burger as they delve into the growing crisis of myopia ahead of Myopia Awareness Week (23–28 May). Learn how this global vision epidemic is affecting our children, what signs to look for, and how we can protect young eyes from lifelong vision complications. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Africa’s only driver’s licence card printing machine has broken down again—bringing renewals to a halt. OUTA has written an open letter to Barabra Creecy calling for urgent reforms, including a 10-year validity period and a shift toward digital licences. We welcome back OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage to the show to find out if he’s received feedback from the transport minister.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zain Johnson speaks to Thopi Mhloli, Head of Savings & Investments for Personal & Private Banking SA at Standard Bank, about how to start and sustain an emergency cash fund.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zain Johnson chats with professional bodybuilder Senki Mariti about how to stay consistent with your training—even when public holidays throw your routine off track.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Thulani Ngwenya | Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) President Three young police officers disappeared under suspicious circumstances and were later found dead in the Hennops River. In a conversation with Zain Johnson, POPCRU President Thulani Ngwenya addresses the tragic discovery, raises urgent questions about police safety, and calls for accountability and change within the SAPSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Godongwana in the hot seat! The EFF and MK Party want him out over the VAT hike chaos—but analysts say he’s unlikely to be fired. Zain Johnson breaks it all down with Political Scientist, Mbasa Mvenene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zain Johnson speaks with Music Therapist, Estine Brown a Music Therapist for the South African National Arts Therapies Association about the powerful impact of music on the brain and improving one’s mental well-being.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zain Johnson speaks to Liezel van der Westhuizen who brings you, your weekly fitness guide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.