Update@Noon

The Democratic Alliance has urged Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza to immediately suspend City Manager Kagiso Lerutla following his arrest. The DA says Lerutla should remain suspended pending investigations, and be dismissed if found guilty. Lerutla appears in the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court alongside suspended EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, both facing charges of fraud, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice. Khathutshelo Rasilingwane MPL – DA Ekurhuleni Mayoral Candidate explains

This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Jon Gericke once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly, delving deeper into the world of mining and engineering.

Retired NPA head Advocate Shamila Batohi's application to have legal advice while under cross-examination has been dismissed by the Nkabinde Enquiry panel. The Nkabinde Enquiry into suspended South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, Andrew Chauke's fitness to hold office resumes this morning. In December last year, Batohi walked out of the enquiry before completing her testimony.

The National Prosecuting Authority says it condemns threats against a prosecutor in the EFF leader Julius Malema firearm case, warning intimidation undermines justice and will be investigated with serious consequences. Malema has been sentenced to five years direct imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a firearm. Malema is appealing the sentence. NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago explains

The Madlanga Commissioner Sandile Khumalo has questioned whether Julius Mkhwanazi tasked EMPD officers to commit armed robbery during a disputed raid. Evidence leader Mahlape Sello says the joint operation story emerged years later and was not disclosed to IPID yet footage places Mkhwanazi at the scene. Mkhwanazi has denied wrongdoing and insists information was shared with IPID. Jon Gericke spoke to Dr Esewu Mxolisi Mathebula, an Independent policing and crime analyst.

The Economic Freedom Fighters says it is going to take legal steps to challenge the guilty conviction of the party leader Julius Malema. This after the East London Regional court in Ku Gompo City granted the leave to appeal the five-year sentence against Julius Malema on the firearm case. The court has however dismissed the application by the defence to appeal the conviction. Julius Malema has been sentenced effective five years direct imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm and two years imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition Jon Gericke spoke to Political Analyst, Sandile Swana.

The Economic Freedom Fighters says it is going to take legal steps to challenge the guilty conviction of the party leader Julius Malema. This after the East London Regional court in Ku Gompo City granted the leave to appeal the five-year sentence against Julius Malema on the firearm case. The court has however dismissed the application by the defence to appeal the conviction. Julius Malema has been sentenced effective five years direct imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm and two years imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition Jon Gericke spoke to Legal Analyst, Melusi Xulu

Police have condemned the alleged gang-related murder of four males in Voorbrug, Delft, on the Cape Flats. Western Cape Police Spokesperson Andre Traut says they appear to have been killed execution-style in a suspected gang-related incident that happened last night. Traut says police responded to a shooting on premises on Zandkloof Street, where the bodies of four victims aged 13, 28, 40, and 41 were found inside a granny flat. Police say the Anti-Gang Unit is investigating, with suspects still at large. Jon Gericke spoke to Dr Guy Lamb, Criminologist and Crime Expert from Stellenbosch University

Suspended EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi has come under intense questioning at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry over his decision to respond to a 2am call linked to an alleged police success. Commissioners pressed Mkhwanazi on why he rushed to the scene without confirming who was running the operation or whether it was officially sanctioned. Mkhwanazi admitted he acted on information from an informant, saying it was common practice to respond at any hour even without full details. He told the commission he had hoped the EMPD could take over the operation and claim the recovery. However, he conceded that in this case, that never happened, and the operation was not recorded through official police channels.

The firearm case against EFF leader Julius Malema has been adjourned to tomorrow for sentencing. Malema was found guilty of multiple charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment of people or property. The incident occurred during the EFF's birthday celebrations at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in July 2018. Both the defense and the state submitted their closing arguments. Jon Gericke spoke to Legal Analyst, Advocate Nthabiseng Dubazana....

The firearm case against EFF leader Julius Malema has been adjourned to tomorrow for sentencing. Malema was found guilty of multiple charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment of people or property. The incident occurred during the EFF's birthday celebrations at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in July 2018. Both the defense and the state submitted their closing arguments. Jon Gericke spoke to is Political Analyst, Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast

Oil prices have surged, pushing oil prices back above $100 per barrel today after US-Iran peace talks collapsed and Donald Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations in Islamabad broke down with the US delegation blaming Iran's nuclear stance while Tehran accused Washington of shifting demands. The US military enforces a blockade on traffic to and from Iranian ports from today. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has vowed to retaliate. For analysis, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to senior researcher and director at Africa Asia Dialogues, Thembisa Fakude.

The Information Regulator has raised concern after a growing number of data breaches in the country, demanding greater transparency from Standard Bank. This follows the bank's confirmation that unauthorised access to selected client information was detected in March 2026. The exposed data includes names, ID numbers and company registration details. The regulator says it will closely monitor the bank's response and investigation into the breach. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deborah Lamola, Acting Senior Manager for Security Compromises (POPIA) at the Information Regulator

Businessman Suleiman Carrim rushed to hospital after gym heart attack before crucial commission testimony. Johannesburg ANC-linked businessman Suliman Carrim was reportedly rushed to hospital following a suspected heart attack while working out at a gym on Monday morning, just days before he is due to testify at the high-stakes Madlanga Commission. While initial reports point to a possible heart attack, his current condition remains unknown. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Canny Maphanga

The Eastern Cape Health Department has obtained a court interdict to end the strike by staff at the Dora Nginza hospital in Gqeberha. Employees say they are overworked due to a shortage of staff at the hospital. They are demanding a fair working ratio. The department has urged employees to return to work to enable the full restoration of services, while engagements continue. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Denosa Eastern Cape Provincial Secretary, Veli Sinqana.

Award winning News and Current Affairs Show host/presenter Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has today carried out an oversight inspection at the illegally occupied Carletonville Police Station in Merafong City Local Municipality, Gauteng. The once-functional police station, meant to fight crime, now stands crumbling and has become a haven for criminals. This is part of a broader government push to reclaim hijacked state properties. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson

The deteriorating relationship between the ANC and the SACP will top the agenda of the ANC'slong-standing Special NEC meeting later this afternoon. This follows the Communist Party's decision to contest local government elections independently. The shift reflects the party's perceived exclusion and long-standing frustration with the ANC's failure to reconfigure the alliance. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter Ntebo Mokobo

Suspended Tshwane Metro Police Department Deputy Chief Umashi Dhlamini has told the Madlanga Commission he was asked by the City of Tshwane's CFO to help resolve months of unpaid invoices to security companies, including Gubis 85. Dhlamini maintains he did not influence procurement and only forwarded publicly accessible records. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Professor of Criminology and a member of the Council of the Criminological and Victimological Society of Southern Africa, Professor Jacob Mofokeng

The Nkabinde Enquiry into the fitness to hold office of South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Andrew Chauke has been adjourned to tomorrow. This is after two key witnesses were unable to testify due to outstanding evidence statements. Former KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Major General Johan Booysen and Advocate Shareen Riley were expected to take the stand.

As Easter holiday travel concludes, the Border Management Authority says operations at key ports remain under control despite expected heavy volumes. The BMA has warned transport operators against carrying undocumented passengers, stressing strict enforcement as travelers return home during this peak period. Meanwhile, the border authority has revealed that it is investigating a case involving people found travelling on a bus without proper documentation. This was after a bus was intercepted last week in the Free State carrying 35 undocumented foreign nationals and children. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to BMA Commissioner Dr. Mike Masiapato

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya says road fatalities in the province during the Easter holidays period of 2024/2025 have declined from 43 percent to 38 percent. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Ndabezinhle Sibiya, spokesperson for the MEC of Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal.

The Pan Africanist Congress is today marking its 67th anniversary, commemorating more than six decades since its formation in 1959.The party, which played a significant role in South Africa's liberation struggle, is holding its main celebrations in Bhisho. President of the PAC, Mzwanele Nyhontso, is expected to deliver a keynote address at the event. Reflecting on the party's historical legacy, its role in shaping the country's political landscape, and outline its vision going forward. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Apa Pooe Secretary General

The Road Traffic Management Corporation says drunken driving has been a source of major headache on the roads over the Easter long weekend. Arrests related to driving under the influence of alcohol increase by a staggering 39 percent as law enforcement officers intensified their efforts to save lives on the roads. A total of 934 motorists were arrested from Thursday to Saturday countywide. This represents an increase of 263 compared to the same period last year. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Road Traffic Management Corporation, Spokesperson Simon Zwane

A special Good Friday service is underway at Grace Bible Church in Soweto, where congregants are gathering in large numbers. The church has placed strong emphasis on prayers for national unity, healing, and spiritual renewal. During election periods, these gatherings also focus on peace and divine guidance for leaders. Today's service further addresses pressing challenges including crime, poverty, and unemployment affecting many South Africans. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Grace bibles' church minister Dudu Mthimunye

News and Current Affairs Show host/presenter Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News and Mining Weekly, live on weekdays from 12 noon to 1 pm on SAfm 104-107fm.

Three people have died in a head-on collision on the R67 between Seymour and Whittlesea in the Eastern Cape early Friday morning. Meanwhile, Limpopo has seen several road crashes as motorists travel for the holiday. Traffic is also heavy on the N3, with many heading towards KwaZulu-Natal for Easter. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the Eastern Cape Provincial Transport Spokesperson Unathi Binqose, Head of Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety Allen Matsila, and SABC reporter Nonhlanhla Ntshingila

South African National Defence Force troops and police are continuing with crime fighting operation in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape. Close to 300 soldiers have been deployed to assist police in the fight against organised crime in Gqeberha and surrounding towns such as Humansdorp and Jeffery's Bay. The operation officially commenced Today. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Northern areas of Gqeberha community activist Christian Martin

The Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has conveyed her condolences to the bereaved family of the twins born attached to the abdomen in January. One of the twins has died. A surgical procedure to separate them was conducted by a team of surgeons more than two weeks ago. Ramathuba says there had been hope that the children would grow up and thrive. The infants, had been under specialized medical care since birth. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba

Majola.The ANC in Gauteng has welcomed the appointment of EFF member Nkululeko Dunga as Finance MEC, announced by Premier Panyaza Lesufi during a cabinet reshuffle. Dunga replaces Lebogang Maile, who moves to education. The ANC says the decision reflects inclusive governance amid no outright majority. Meanwhile, Lesufi also revealed in his briefing yesterday that there are ongoing talks with the MK party to join the executive, as coalition politics continue to shape leadership and stability in the province. EFF’s Nkululeko Dunga has been sworn in as Gauteng MEC for Finance by the Deputy Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to leadership and governance expert Professor Mazwe Majola

The Eastern Cape province has today received its fair share on the deployment of the South African National Defence Force members to crime hotspots in parts of Eastern Cape to support the South African Police Service. Troops are moving into high-risk areas following an announcement by Cyril Ramaphosa during the State of the Nation Address. However, a professor from Stellenbosch University warns that the show of force risks weakening police accountability and long-term crime-fighting efforts. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Professor of Sociology in the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology at Stellenbosch University professor Lindy Heinecken

NASA has successfully launched four astronauts on a ten-day journey around the moon, the first such mission in over 50 years. The spacecraft of NASA's Artemis TWO mission is expected to circle the far side of the Moon. The spacecraft blasted into space from the Kennedy Space Centre in Cape Canaveral in the state of Florida in the early hours of this morning. To get more on this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Steve Sherman, Chief imagination officer for Living Maths, a stem based NGO.

The Transport Minister Barbara Creecy is conducting a road safety inspection operation at the Kranskop Toll Plaza on the N1 in Limpopo today. Traffic volumes are expected to increase significantly from today. This as scores of motorists travel to various destinations ahead of the Easter long weekend. Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says the South African government wishes safe trips to all travelling this easter Bongiwe Zwane spoke to by Border Management Authority Spokesperson, Mmemme Mogotsi...

Several parents at Fundakwazi Primary School in Mpumalanga have raised serious concerns after allegations emerged that a man working as a gardener at the school sexually violated a number of learners. The incident has once again highlighted growing fears about the safety of children in schools, which are meant to be secure environments for teaching and protection. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Nonhlanhla Ntshingila....

Police are yet to confirm the death toll in the collision between two vehicles on the N1 road near Modimolle in Limpopo. Reports say five people have been killed in the crash which happened this morning. Limpopo experiences high traffic volumes and road carnage during the Easter period. This as travellers head to various destinations. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to SABC reporter, Rendani Raliphaswa

Members of the South African National Defence Force have been deployed across parts of the Western Cape from today. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the move during the State of the Nation Address in February. Troops have already been deployed in parts of Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Free State to patrol crime ridden areas and hotspots. Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile has welcomed the deployment, saying it aims to strengthen safety and stabilize communities, especially in the Cape Flats. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Western Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Novelwa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced 900 billion rand has already been committed of the new two-trillion-rand investment target set for the next five years. The latest investment commitments are expected to come from banks, development finance institutions, state owned enterprises and the private sector. Addressing delegates at the South African Investment Conference in Sandton President Ramaphosa emphasized that government remains committed to its structural reform agenda which will ensure a stable environment for investment Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Brand South Africa CEO Neville Matjie

With the the Sixth Investment Conference held at the Sandton convention Centre, the country positions itself as Africa's gateway for investment. Amid continental transformation driven by urbanisation, digital adoption, and trade integration, the African Continental Free Trade Area is reshaping market access. Investors are reassessing emerging markets, with Africa now central to their strategic focus. The conference highlights opportunities in technology, clean energy, infrastructure, and industrial development across the continent. For more on this Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kwame Senou Executive director at THOP firm based in Côte d'Ivoire

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced 900 billion rand has already been committed of the new two-trillion-rand investment target set for the next five years. The latest investment commitments are expected to come from banks, development finance institutions, state owned enterprises and the private sector. Addressing delegates at the South African Investment Conference in Sandton President Ramaphosa emphasized that government remains committed to its structural reform agenda which will ensure a stable environment for investment. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is embarking on the largest and most ambitious cycle of infrastructure investment. Ramaphosa says the government has set aside funds to enhance public facilities. Speaking at the 6th South African Investment Conference President Ramaphosa says public and private sector can work together. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Abrahams

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is embarking on the largest and most ambitious cycle of infrastructure investment. Ramaphosa says the government has set aside funds to enhance public facilities. Speaking at the 6th South African Investment Conference President Ramaphosa says public and private sector can work together.

Families of the TRC victims have welcomed the ruling as the High Court has dismissed the bid by former presidents Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki to remove Sisi Khampepe from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission inquiry. The court found the application procedurally flawed and invalid, while also ordering both former presidents to pay legal costs, clearing the way for the commission's work to continue without further delay. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Lukhanyo Calata, the son of murdered struggle stalwart Fort Calata,

Tensions continues to escalate in the Middle East as Donald Trump signals openness to talks, while Iran warns it is ready to respond to any US ground invasion plans. Pakistan is preparing to host possible peace negotiations amid ongoing regional diplomacy. Meanwhile, US-Israeli strikes continue across Tehran and other cities, hitting key infrastructure and worsening civilian conditions, as global oil prices surge and markets react to growing fears of a wider conflict. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Tembisa Fakude, Senior Research Fellow: Africa -Asia dialogue

The community of Buffalo City is marching against what it calls the unauthorized coronation of the Nigerian Igbo King, at KuGompo City. This follows videos circulated in social media showing the coronation ceremony held in at the city earlier this month. Inkosi Xhanti Bambilizwe Sigcawu of AmaXhosa royal house says they are here to make a mark, and calling on legal steps to be taken. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Inkosi Xhanti Bambilizwe Sigcawu of AmaXhosa royal family

Political analyst Professor Metjie Makgoba says court battles in the African National Congress across the Eastern Cape and Limpopo reflect deep internal divisions. Makgoba warns the party’s credibility is at risk, as members increasingly rely on courts to resolve disputes. This comes after the The African National Congress in Limpopo has been granted a green light to proceed with its provincial conference after the High Court in Polokwane dismissed an urgent application to halt the gathering. The ruling clears the way now for leadership elections, which are scheduled for today, the 27th and 28th of March, throughout this weekend, despite disputes over delegate nomination processes. This judgment comes a day after the East London High Court ruled yesterday that the Eastern Cape African National Congress (ANC) elective conference, scheduled for this weekend in KuGompo, cannot go ahead. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to political analyst Professor Metjie Makgoba.

This Friday, SAfm’s radio anchor Sakina Kamwendo once again spoke to Martin Creamer, publishing editor of Engineering News & Mining Weekly, delving deeper into the world of mining and engineering.

The African National Congress in Limpopo is set to proceed with its provincial conference after the High Court in Polokwane dismisses an urgent application to halt the gathering. The ruling clears the way now for leadership elections, which are scheduled for today the 27th and 28th of March throughout this weekend, despite disputes over delegate nomination processes. This judgement comes a day after the East London High Court ruled yesterday that the Eastern Cape African National Congress (ANC) elective conference, scheduled for this weekend in KuGompo, cannot go ahead.

The Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has told parliament that any deliberate attempt to withhold fuel from the market would not be tolerated. Mantashe warned petrol stations that withholding fuel is illegal and has promised to prosecute those found to be doing so in South Africa. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Director General at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Jacob Mbele....

Today marks 6 full years since President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country will be under full lockdown restrictions due to COVID 19 pandemic. Many things changed in South Africa, people were not allowed to go to certain areas, when you go to work you were supposed to have a permit from work. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Family Practitioner and Healthcare Leader, Vice-Chairperson of the Unity Forum of Family Practitioners (UFFP), Dr Angelique Coetzee....

Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleka says the 2024/25 audit outcomes show little overall improvement across provinces. She notes progress in the Eastern Cape, where Health and Education improved to unqualified opinions. However she says, Free State and North West remain among the weakest performers. KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng saw regressions, particularly in Health. Briefing the media, Maluleka highlighted ongoing procurement irregularities and financial mismanagement. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to the Acting Head of Audit at Auditor general South Africa, Dr Thami Zikode

The African National Congress has rejected what it calls the “Mbalula Dossier” released by AfriForum. The party describes the document not as a genuine pursuit of justice, but as a politically motivated attempt to smear and isolate the Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula. The party has further said AfriForum has long positioned itself as an opponent of transformation. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri