The Weekend View

We start with sports ....Orlando Pirates have made history by winning the MTN8 trophy for the fourth consecutive time. The Buccanners needed extra-time to beat Stellenbosch F.C 3-nil in the final played at the Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga LAST NIGHT.. In world cup rugby ...It's the end of the road for Springbok women after they suffered a 46-17 loss to New Zealand in their maiden Women's Rugby World Cup quarter-final appearance YESTERDAY. Despite the defeat the South Africans can hold their heads high though - after reaching the quarter-finals for the first time ever. Earlier in the day..The Springboks put on a spectecular show in Wellington and are back at number one in the world and their hopes of retaining their Rugby Championship title are very much alive. The brave Springboks recorded a convincing 43-10 bonus point victory over New Zealand in a dramatic turnaround after last week's defeat in Auckland. To talk about these results Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports reporter, Simon Burke...

The people of Malawi are set to vote for their next leader ON TUESDAY. This will be the first election since Lazarus Chakwera, a former opposition leader of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), became president in 2020 after the 2019 results were nullified by a court due to widespread irregularities. The ruling restored the political system's credibility, underscoring Malawi as a rare case in which courts and electoral institutions asserted independence from the executive. Chakwera is vying for a second term, while his main rival is former president Peter Mutharika. Besides voting for a president, the 7.2 million registered voters will also be taking part in parliamentary and local elections. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Victor Chipofya Junior, political analyst joining us from Malawi's commercial capital, Blantyre.....

The Constitutional Court , South Africa's highest court, has ruled that men may assume their wives' surnames, declaring Section 26(1)(a) to (c) of the Births and Deaths Registration Act unconstitutional as it unfairly discriminates on the basis of gender, by failing to afford men the right to assume the surname of women after marriage. The court says the law was a "colonial import" that amounted to gender-based discrimination. Parliament will now have to amend the Births and Deaths Registration Act, along with its regulations, for the ruling to take effect. To unpack this historic decision Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Mathole Motshekga, founder of the Kara Heritage Institute and Professor Musa Xulu, cultural and religious expert

South Africa is seeing a host of international companies shut down or downsize their local operations. Last week, Ford, Glencore Plc and ArcelorMittal SA announced plans to cut thousands of jobs in South Africa, dealing a further blow to an economy marred by mass unemployment and slow growth. In August , the Goodyear SA plant in Kariega shut its doors after 78 years of operation, impacting over 900 workers... What should government do when South Africa's backbone industries are dismantled. What does this mean for the many livelihoods impacted by the job cuts and job losses . For more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Nelson Machule Maqwazima , National African Federated Chamber of Commerce (NAFCOC) veteran and Economic Advisor in the Eastern Cape

President Cyril Ramaphosa says his administration is determined to address the service delivery challenges and the current mismanagement in the North West to restore public confidence. Accompanied by some of his cabinet ministers, Ramaphosa held a meeting with North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi and his executive. Currently, the North West has the highest unemployment rate in the country at over 52 percent, and several municipalities have been affected by mismanagement. Ramaphosa says this has resulted in poor service delivery and a trust deficit. SABC reporter Ntebo Mokobo has more details To discuss the issues raised at the Presidential engagement in the North West, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Professor Kedibone Phago, Director of the School of Government Studies at the North-West University

Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA) is set to rollout the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences system (AARTO) to 69 municipalities across the country on December 1 this year. This it says is an effort to curb the high number of road fatalities in the country. Most sections of the act will come into effect in major municipalities across the country on December 1, 2025, followed by the remaining municipalities on April 1, 2026. The remaining sections of the AARTO Act (26 to 28), which includes the demerit points, are set to take effect on September 1, 2026. For more on this, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Monde Mkalipi, Spokesperson for the Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA)

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will try out his new-look backline for the second Test against the All Blacks in Wellington, New Zealand, THIS MORNING. Kick of is at 09h05.(5 past nine). The Springboks will be desperate to bounce back from their 24-17 defeat last weekend at Eden Park to stay in the running for the Castle Lager Rugby Championship title, as well as retain the Freedom Cup between the two rugby giants. Later today, the Springbok Women will play their biggest game so far when they clash against New Zealand in the Women's Rugby World Cup quarter-finals. The match against the Black Ferns, who have won the past two World Cups, kicks off at 2pm in Exeter, England. The Springbok Women are appearing in the knockout stages for the first time after defeating Brazil and Italy. ..Meanwhile in local soccer....Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC will lock horns in TONIGHT's MTN8 final at Mbombela Stadium. The encounter will be a repeat of last season's deciding match in the same competition.To talk about this rugby and soccer bonanza Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports reporter, Simon Burke...

The Springbok Women will TODAY take up the mantle for South African Rugby when they take on France in the Women's Rugby World Cup tournament in Northampton, England . This after the Springboks suffered a 24-17 defeat to the All Blacks at Eden Park yesterday. Coach Rassie Erasmus has admitted his team were the architects of their own downfall and hinted at changes ahead of next weekend's must-win clash in Wellington.The Springbok Women, still celebrating their first-ever World Cup quarter-final qualification following a stunning win over Italy, face a formidable French squad, a side experts say boasts the experience and firepower to punish any lapse. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC rugby commentator, Renier Swart

The commission of inquiry into the Usindiso building fire has concluded its work, with a final report submitted to Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi. The commission was established two years ago after 76 people lost their lives when a massive fire broke out and destroyed a hijacked Joburg CBD building. The commission was then set up to probe causes of fire and the broader issue of hijacked buildings in the inner city. The commission’s report now finds the City of Johannesburg has a long-standing record of neglecting its own buildings in the area. The report further points to systemic failures and poor by-law enforcement. It also highlights the city's failure to deliver basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity, leading to illegal and dangerous connections. The Khampepe commission recommends the city must take responsibility for the dire living conditions in rundown properties. To unpack the report Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Edward Molopi, Senior Communications and Advocacy Officer at the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI) and Elijah Mhlanga, Gauteng Provincial Government spokesperson

The Global Sumud Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid and activists, including 10 South African activists and the Swedish climate and political campaigner Greta Thunberg, will soon be setting sail for the Gaza Strip in an effort to break Israel's siege on the region and deliver aid to Palestinians. The boats left Spain last week and are now in Tunisia from where they will set sail across the Mediterreanian Sea to Gaza. The South African team includes Mandla Mandela, a grandson of Nelson Mandela and South African Jews for a Free Palestine's, Jared Sacks. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Fatima Hendricks

Former MK Party secretary general Floyd Shivambu YESTERDAY officially unveiled Afrika Mayibuye Movement as a political party, announcing himself as the president of the organisation. Shivambu declared the formation of the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, abbreviated as "Mayibuye", alongside the release of its founding document, the Africa Mayibuye Restoration Manifesto. The new party's leadership structure includes two deputy presidents, a secretary-general, deputy secretary-generals, a national chairperson, a deputy chairperson, a national organiser and deputy organiser. To help us dissect this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to political analyst Dr. Sandile Swana

The second annual Combating Corruption Summit ended in JHB yesterday with participants demanding accountability, integrity, and active citizenship from every South African. The three-day event, hosted by the University of Johannesburg, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, civil society, law enforcement, and academia to devise tangible strategies to tackle corruption. To tell us more about the outcomes of the summit, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Priscilla Molebatsi from the University of Johannesburg's Office of the General Counsel

In June this year we had an extensive interview with Advocate Douglas Shaw, who is spearheading the R60 billion class action against the major banks, for repossessing homes and selling them off for a fraction of their worth. Banks in South Africa have been criticised for using aggressive tactics to address home loan arrears. Some of these tactics include initiating legal action for repossession even when homeowners are actively reducing their arrears, imposing excessive legal costs that quickly surpass the actual debt and failing to engage meaningfully with customers before resorting to court action. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Advocate Douglas Shaw on the latest developments

Rugby fans around the world are waiting to see if the Springboks can make history THIS MORNING in their highly anticipated showdown against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. New Zealand will be defending a proud 31-year unbeaten streak at Eden Park against the reigning World Champions and defending Rugby Championship champions, the Springboks, who last won at the famous Auckland stadium 88 years ago. The match, which kicks off - at 09h05 - will be a clash of the titans as South Africa have won the last two Rugby World Cup titles in addition to last year's Rugby Championship, but the All Blacks have snuck ahead of them into top spot in the World Rugby rankings. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC rugby commentator, Renier Swart

As we conclude Women's Month, we start the show with Women's Rugby.......The Springbok Women's team is just hours away from a crucial game when they take on Italy in the second match at the Women's Rugby World Cup in England TODAY. Kick off is at 4:30 this afternoon. Victory over the Italians in Pool D will secure a top two finish for the South Africans and guarantee a place in the quarterfinals. Should they pull through, the Bok Women will make history as the Springbok Women have never made it out of the pool stage of a Rugby World Cup. Last week, the Bok ladies swamped Brazil 66-6 to register their first win at a World Cup. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports reporter Simon Burke

Energy regulator Nersa confirmed in a statement THIS WEEK that it has entered into a settlement with Eskom, following the mistakes it made in determining the utility's revenue for the current and next two financial years. As a result, consumers will have to cough up R54 billion more through higher electricity tariffs, phased in over 2 years. Electricity tarriffs, that had been set to rise at 5,4% and 6.2% are now expected to increase by 8,8 each year in 2026/27 and 2027/28.This is three times higher than the anticipated consumer inflation rate. To help us understand this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Prof. Samson Mamphweli, energy expert from the South African National Energy Development Institute

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains shockingly prevalent across South Africa. Despite the country's robust legal framework and policies aimed at tackling GBV, experts say the practice is deeply rooted in societal norms and incidents continue to escalate at an alarming rate. In 2024 , the HSRC released The First South African National Gender-Based Violence Study. The HSRC survey showed that a third (33.1%) of South African women over the age of 18 had experienced physical violence in their lifetime .. To engage more on this topic, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Natisha Dukhi, Senior Research Specialist in the Public Health, Societies and Belonging from the research division at the Human Sciences Research Council and Gugu Nonjinge, Advocacy Specialist from the Centre for Study of Violence and Reconciliation

Legendary actress Nandi Nyembe will be buried today ........ Nandi passed away on Sunday at the age of 75 . Her career, which began in the 1970s. She delivered unforgettable performances in iconic television series such as Yizo Yizo, where she portrayed a strong matriarchal figure. She was best known for her iconic roles as Nandi Sibiya on Zone 14 and sister Lizzie in Soul City. To find out more we are now joined on the line by our reporter Horisani Sithole .

ActionSA YESTERDAY celebrated its 5th anniversary. The party was launched on 29 August during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020. The party has since grown into a significant opposition force, governing Tshwane, securing six seats in parliament, and becoming the 7th largest party nationally. Over the years, it has championed many causes including calls for firmer action against illegal immigration and supporting the Lily Mine families. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Action SA founding president, Herman Mashaba

The SACP says limited funds will not deter it from contesting the 2026 local government elections. The party's General Secretary Solly Mapaila says they will rely on grassroot support to ensure the success of their campaign. He was speaking to the SABC on the sidelines as the party started it's three-day Central Committee plenary meeting in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, YESTERDAY. The plenary will reflect on their alliance, elections, and broader political priorities. Our reporter Zara Groenewald has more details and to further discuss the SACP and the future of the tripartite alliance. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Mbulelo Madlana, SACP spokesperson

The Springboks bounced back from defeat a week ago as they produced a masterly kicking performance in a 30-22 win over the Wallabies in their Rugby Championship match at the Cape Town Stadium YESTERDAY. The Boks will head to New Zealand next, needing at least one win in two matches against the All Blacks if they are to have a chance of defending their title.In Australia the Proteas are this morning playing the 3rd and final One Day International at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay.And in local soccer, Orlando Pirates will face Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final after both teams won their games against Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United respectively YESTERDAY.Meanwhile ..The 18th edition of the SA Sports Awards take place at Sun city THIS EVENING. There are 16 categories with swimmer Tatjana Smith, sprinter Akani Simbine and paralympic star, Mpumelelo Mhlongo nominated for the most prestigious Sport Star of the Year Award. SAfm sports anchor Janet Whitton is a judge at the awards and joins us on the line.....

Thembinkosi Mthembu has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for his performance as King Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe, with audiences and critics praising his nuanced portrayal, talent, and impact on the series. Mthembu's depiction of the complex ruler was described as "iconic," "career-defining," and "brilliant," even earning him a South African Film and Television Award - SAFTA - and a Sabela Award for his role. His departure from the show earlier this month was noted as a significant moment, with fans expressing their appreciation for his unforgettable performance. Other critics say another SAFTA award could be loading for Mthembu following his riveting performance on season two of "Shaka iLembe. Mthembu is currently featuring in another groundbreaking new telenovela, "Homecoming". In the compelling series, he takes on the role of Sifiso Kubheka, a character who embodies a complex duality as a dedicated police officer by day and a traditional healer by night. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Thembinkosi Mthembu is our special guest today in our Sunday Morning Discussion...

Startup Huddle is set to establish its new Pretoria chapter this week , on the 28th of August 2025. This global initiative, driven by the Global Entrepreneurship Network is in partnership with the TUT's Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED). It aims to provide local entrepreneurs, startups, and changemakers with a vibrant and inclusive platform to discuss challenges, gather crowdsourced feedback, and forge connections that support their development. To find oiut more we are now joined on the line by Mpilenhle Hadebe, Startup Huddle Pretoria Marketing Manager

The Ad Hoc Committee set up to probe allegations of threats to national security made by Kwa-Zulu Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has finally adopted its terms of reference. The inquiry will investigate claims that criminal syndicates have infiltrated the police and the justice system. The Committee has until October to deliver its report to Parliament. For the latest Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Molapi Lekganyane, Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee set up to investigate allegations of threats to national security

Palestinians are fleeing parts of Gaza City after the Israeli military began the first stages of a planned ground offensive. Israel's troops THIS WEEK established a foothold on the outskirts of the city - which is home to more than a million Palestinians - after days of intense bombing and artillery fire. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza City have been ordered to evacuate and head to southern Gaza. Israel's defence minister has warned that Gaza City will be destroyed if Hamas does not agree to disarm and release all hostages. This comes as the UN has confirmed famine in Gaza City and its surrounding area for the first time, a claim the Israelis have dismissed as false. To look at this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Oscar van Heerden, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre of African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg.

Violent crime on Table Mountain is on the increase. This is according to volunteer groups or concerned mountain users. They have now launched a petition calling on SANParks to tackle crime and the deterioration of conditions on the mountain. Meanwhile, South African National Parks (SANParks) has denied that there is an increase in crime on the mountain and says the numbers are stable. For more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Megan Taplin, Park Manager for Table Mountain National Park

Violent crime on Table Mountain is on the increase. This is according to volunteer groups or concerned mountain users. They have now launched a petition calling on SANParks to tackle crime and the deterioration of conditions on the mountain. For more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Taahir Osman, Founder of Take Back our Mountains

The Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA) is calling on the South African government to ratify regulations that make it mandatory for foods high in salt, sugar and saturated fat to carry clear warning labels on the front of packages. This it says will empower consumers to make informed and healthier decisions when buying food. This week HEALA concluded its roadshows aimed at raising awareness on the importance of front-of-package warning labels. For more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Simphiwe Masilo, Programmes Coordinator at The Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA)

Australia and South Africa will battle on two fronts TODAY with the Proteas playing the second One Day International of the three-match series. The match will be in MacKay in Queensland. And after a week of licking their wounds, defending Rugby Championship kings, South Africa, will TODAY take on Australia in the second round of the showdown in Cape Town. The Springboks are desperate to turn the tables and prove that they are still the top rugby nation in the world and that last Saturday was merely a bad day at the office. The Wallabies shocked the Springboks at Ellis Park last weekend, recording their first win there since 1963. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports reporter Simon Burke

Australia came back from 22- nil to win in a stunning 38-22 bonus-point victory over South Africa in their Rugby Championship opener YESTERDAY, the Wallabies' first victory at Ellis Park since 1963. The Springboks led 22-5 at halftime but Australia came alive in the second half and were excellent in soaking up pressure and hitting the world champions with fast breaks as they won on South African soil for the first time in 14 years.Meanwhile Ultimate Fighting Championship - UFC - middleweight world champion Dricus du Plessis is about to battle his tough opponent when he defends his title against Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC 319 in the United States THIS MORNING. South Africa's Du Plessis goes into the ring in Chicago as the underdog against the undefeated Chechnya born Chimaev. For more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports reporter Simon Burke

Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Political Analyst, Professor, Lesiba Teffo, Her Royal Highness, Queen Rebecca Como of The Nama Royal House and Lerato Ngobeni, MP and observer at the National Convention

The inquest into the 1 May 1993 Highgate Hotel Massacre will resume TOMORROW, at the Special Tribunal in East London. This follows two earlier sittings in January and March this year and marks another critical step in the long-delayed effort to uncover the truth behind the attack, which claimed five lives and left seven others injured. Although the Highgate Hotel Massacre was widely attributed to the Azanian People's Liberation Army - APLA , no amnesty applications were ever filed, and recent testimonies have cast serious doubt on the official narrative. To tell us more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Sesethu Holomisa, Project Officer at the Foundation for Human Rights

On FRIDAY , Seven prominent legacy foundations proposed that the first National Convention, scheduled to be held next weekend from the 15th to the 17 of August , must BE postponed. The Steve Biko Foundation; Thabo Mbeki Foundation; Chief Albert Luthuli Foundation; Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation; FW de Klerk Foundation; Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Foundation and the Strategic Dialogue withdrew their participation citing that core principles meant to underpin the whole National Dialogue have been violated in the rush to host the gathering. They added that the National Dialogue must be credible, principled, and anchored in public trust. The decision has cast a dark cloud on the much anticipated dialogue. Meanwhile , President Cyril Ramaphosa says there's nothing to worry about and that there's nothing political or untoward about the decision. To unpack this further Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Prof. Bheki Mngomezulu, Director of the Centre for the Advancement of Non-Racialism and Democracy (CANRAD) at Nelson Mandela University and Dr. Nkosikhulule Nyembezi, Policy Analyst and mediator Researcher at Election Monitoring Network

In the 90 minutes of an average football match, as many as 11 people in Africa drown – and often no one will hear a sound. That's effectively a whole team lost every game. Drowning is a silent epidemic in Africa and according to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 66,000 lives are lost across the continent each year. It is against this background that the National Sea Rescue Institute - NSRI - will TODAY broadcast a drowning prevention reminder on London's Wembley stadium's LED boards during the FA Community Shield Premier League championship match. To tell us more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Andrew Ingram, NSRI Drowning Prevention Manager...

President Cyril Ramaphosa will TODAY lead the National Women's Day Commemoration at the Nkowankowa Stadium in Tzaneen, Limpopo Province. Women's Month 2025 marks the 69th anniversary of the historic 1956 demonstration in which 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August to protest against the extension of pass laws and the Urban Areas Act. President Ramaphosa will address the commemoration under the theme "Building Resilient Economies for All". Bongiwe Zwane spoke to our reporter Koketso Motau

The Consumer Goods and Services Ombud this week announced consumer complaint statistics for the 2024/25 financial year. In the latest report the ombud facilitated refunds or replacements to consumers to the value of R11.9 million. According to the CGSO , the annual report aims to reflect on what the CGSO has achieved but also why their work matters. The theme this year is accessibility. CGSO has found that many of the most vulnerable consumers in poor and rural communities remain unaware of their rights or uncertain on how to enforce them. For more we are now joined on the line by Consumer Goods and Services Ombud Chief Executive Officer ,Queen Munyai

The saga surrounding the repatriation of the body of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu back to his country for burial took a dramatic turn YESTERDAY. The family of the former leader filed papers for leave to appeal hours after Friday's High Court judgement that had ruled that Zambia's government can repatriate the body, despite his family's opposition. The dispute follows a long-standing feud between Lungu and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema, with Lungu's family saying he had indicated that Hichilema should not attend his funeral. Handing down the ruling, judge Aubrey Ledwaba had earlier ordered Lungu's family to immediately surrender his body to authorities. For reaction Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Augustine Chisembele, Secretary General of the Zambia Association in South Africa

The Church, as a prominent social institution, has a complex relationship with violence against women and children, both contributing to and combating it. While the Church is called to be a source of healing and protection, some instances reveal that church leaders and structures can perpetuate or enable GBV. Some church leaders, including pastors, have been found to be perpetrators of GBV, betraying their role as spiritual leaders and protectors. The South African Christian Leaders Initiative - SACLI - says many people are experiencing some form of sexual and gender based violence in our churches across South Africa. However, many faith-based organizations and leaders are actively working to address GBV through education, prevention programmes, and support for survivors. Some religious leaders believe the time has come for the church to rise up, to speak out and to act. Does the church have the necessary resources and skills to address GBV? To help us explore this vital question Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Nataski Manyika, Author and Founding Editor of Christian Royalty Magazine & First Lady at Amazing Grace Centre alongside Pastor Kennedy Manyika.... and Reverend Mzwandile Molo, General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches

The Border Management Authority is set to unveil new security measures to boost traveller verification and law enforcement at ports of entry. The authority says this move is part of the BMA's renewed push to enhance border operations. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr. Mike Masiapato ...

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has denied owning a multimillion-rand Constantia mansion, saying the property belongs to his son-in-law and is privately owned. This comes after he listed two luxury homes in Constantia and Midrand in Parliament's latest Register of Members' Interests, raising eyebrows nationwide. The properties, valued at a combined R65 million, have reignited public concern over transparency and wealth among politicians. Mashatile, who earns just over R3 million annually, insists there's nothing untoward. This is the subject of our Sunday Morning Discussion and to discuss this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Zwelinzima Vavi, SAFTU'S General Secretary, Rise Mzansi Chief Whip, Makashule Gana and Professor Zwelinzima Ndevu, Director of the School of Public Leadership at Stellenbosch University ..

The ANC is THIS WEEKEND holding its much-anticipated National Executive Committee meeting in Ormonde in southern Johannesburg. The meeting which, will end on Monday, comes in the wake of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu taking leave of absence following explosive allegations by KZN police commissioner Lt. general Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The meeting is also set to discuss the US-imposed tariffs which will essentially take effect on Thursday. The state of the fragile Government of National UNity - GNU - may also up for discussion. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC senior political reporter Ntebo Mokobo......

Booking a holiday online can be risky, warns a Cape Town beachfront property owner. Scammers are cloning venue websites, hijacking host accounts, and stealing luxury property images to lure unsuspecting travellers on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. These fake listings, often offering West Coast and Atlantic Seaboard stays at unrealistically low prices, are leaving potential holidaymakers in a bind. Naomi Marx, who owns beachfront holiday accommodation on the West Coast in Cape Town warns that if you're not booking with a sharp fraud radar, you're likely to become the next victim. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Naomi Marx

President Cyril Ramaphosa says he remains hopeful that ongoing talks with Washington will help ease new US tariffs on South African goods. This follows a 30% tariff introduced by US President Donald Trump, targeting multiple nations including South Africa as part of a wider global trade reset. Ramaphosa says South Africa has tabled a trade framework seeking exemptions and mutual investment opportunities. Ramaphosa further says Government is also finalising support measures for affected industries, while continuing diplomatic efforts to protect local jobs and strengthen alternative export markets. The New tariffs to essentially take effect in six days' time. For more on this, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Trade, Industry and Competition Ministerial Spokesperson, Kaamil Alli as well as Khaya Sithole, an independent economic analyst

Nearly 1,000 suspected zama-zamas mostly undocumented foreign nationals have been arrested at Sheba Gold Mine in Barberton, Mpumalanga. The raid, part of Operation Vala Umgodi involving SAPS and the SANDF, forced the miners to surface after food supplies ran dry. Police say those arrested face charges under the Immigration Act and for illegal mining. Authorities have vowed to dismantle criminal mining networks in the province. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Brigadier Donald Mdluli, Mpumalanga provincial police spokesperson

Major western nations are facing growing pressure to recognise a Palestinian state, after France announced THIS WEEK that it will do so in September. President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday that France intends to recognise a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly. The announcement was predictably condemned by Israel and the US. Italy has suggested that the recognition of a Palestinian state must occur simultaneously with the recognition of Israel by the new entity. France will become the first major Western country to recognise a Palestinian state, potentially fuelling a movement so far dominated by smaller nations generally more critical of Israel. For reaction Jon Gericke spoke to Usuf Chikte, Chief co-ordinator at the Palestine Solidarity Campaign .....

Opposition parties in the Johannesburg council have called for a full-on investigation into allegations against Kenny Kunene and his alleged links to an alleged member of a murder syndicate, Katiso "KT" Molefe who was arrested in connection with the murder of Oupa Sefoka also known as DJ Sumbody. Kunene resigned as both MMC and a Patriotic Alliance councillor over the allegations. SABC reporter Phumzile Mlangeni filed a report on Kunene's resignation before Jon Gericke spoke to political strategist, Brutus Malada...

Legislation to review the bilateral relationship between the United States and South Africa has passed through a Foreign Affairs Committee in the House of Representatives- an early step in a long process of the bill actually becoming law. Authored and introduced by Republican Congressman Ronny Jackson in April, the U.S.- South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025 is viewed as part of efforts to provide President Donald Trump with the tools necessary to impose sanctions on South African officials in government - and the ANC in particular - who choose to support American adversaries like China, Russia and Iran. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reported on the committee vote and how the process is likely to unfold before Jon Gericke spoke to Dr. Kingsley Makhubela, Former Diplomat & Conflict Resolution Expert as well as Mikatekiso Kubayi a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Global Dialogue.

A new DebtBusters survey shows that 70% of South Africans are still grappling with financial stress in 2025. The burden falls hardest on women, who report higher anxiety levels across home, work, and health. While inflation and loadshedding pressures have eased, according to the report most people still fear running out of money or missing debt payments. Middle-aged and high-income earners face mounting debt pressure, with many spending over 40% of their income just to repay loans. For more on this Jon Gericke spoke to Nosiphiwo Nxawe Payments & Collections Manager at DebtBusters