The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

This episode covers major South African news, including a mass shooting in KwaZulu-Natal that left 11 dead and the legal maneuvers of taxi boss Bafana Sundane regarding the Madlanger Commission. It also examines legal disputes involving the Zondo Commission's Regulation 10.6 process and the ANC's petition to the Constitutional Court over candidate submissions. The program further explores community-driven initiatives like 'Josie Trails' in Johannesburg and discusses the upcoming One Young World summit in South Africa. Additionally, an interview with Reverend Rudy Swanepoel highlights an art exhibition in Washington, D.C., designed to provide a nuanced counterbalance to the politicized 'White Cross Project'.

An EWN report from KwaMashu, south of Durban, detailing a mass shooting that left 11 people dead and three others wounded. The incident involved unknown gunmen firing indiscriminately at a house where a group of friends was gathered for a small party. The report covers the immediate aftermath, including the identification of victims by families and the investigation by local police. The coverage also explores the broader context of crime and gun violence in KwaZulu-Natal. It includes perspectives from a local ward counselor regarding community reactions to frequent gunfire, an interview with a grieving mother, and observations on recent incidents of school-related shootings in the province. The report highlights the ongoing challenges involving drug use and the need for community cooperation with law enforcement.

The report covers the legal battle surrounding Bafana Sindane, a prominent taxi tycoon, as he attempts to block his subpoena to testify before the Madlanga Commission. His legal team is presenting multiple justifications for his absence, including medical issues and a period of sacred spiritual seclusion, while also seeking to prevent the use of his WhatsApp messages as evidence. Evidence leader Advocate Matthew Chaskelson is arguing against these postponements, asserting that Sindane has intentionally delayed his testimony for over a month. Chaskelson emphasizes that the commission's inquisitorial nature allows it to gather information from unwilling witnesses and argues that any claims of unfairness are due to Sindane's own failure to comply with his obligations.

The ANC is petitioning the Constitutional Court to overturn an Electoral Court judgment regarding the submission of candidate lists for upcoming elections. The party argues that although they failed to press the final 'submit' button on the IEC's online portal, the act of capturing 181 candidate names constitutes a valid submission. Internal tensions are rising within the ANC, as excluded members suggest the failure to complete the submission may have been a deliberate act driven by factional battles. While the party initially blamed system glitches, evidence suggests late-stage attempts to capture data, leading to accusations of political motivation from those left off the lists.

This episode of The Hope Dealers explores the work of Josie Trails, a non-profit initiative dedicated to restoring and maintaining the Bramfontein Spruit trail system in Johannesburg. Host Mandy Wiener joins Nigel Lever, General Manager of Josie Trails, and Busi Misimango, Director of Josie Trails, to discuss the transformation of 37 kilometers of municipal parkland into a safe, interconnected urban outdoor space for walking, running, and cycling. The conversation covers the history of the trails, from the informal 'Sprite Fairies' of the 1980s to the formal establishment of the organization in 2019. The episode highlights community-led security efforts, biodiversity restoration, and the mission to create a 'green lung' for the city. The discussion also touches on funding models like the Adopt a Kilometre programme and the long-term vision of linking these green belts to townships like Soweto to promote safe commuting.

An interview with Kate Robertson, co-founder and CEO of One Young World, regarding the upcoming summit taking place in South Africa this November. The discussion explores the organization's mission to identify, connect, and promote impactful young leaders from 196 countries to foster responsible and effective leadership globally. The episode details the scale of the summit, including the presence of Nobel Peace Prize laureates, former political prisoners, and global business heads. Robertson highlights the importance of scholarship places for entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs, as well as the significant South African delegation expected to participate in the gathering.

An interview with Reverend Rudy Swanepoel regarding the 'We Are The Good Guys' art exhibition at the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C. The discussion addresses the White Cross Project, an initiative by Lex Libertas that involves planting white crosses on the National Mall to highlight violent crime and farm attacks in South Africa. Reverend Swanepoel discusses using art as a nuanced counterbalance to what he describes as a politicized narrative of fear and segregation, emphasizing themes of reconciliation and social justice.

This episode covers major legal and political developments in South Africa, beginning with the arrest of a top police lieutenant general on sexual offense charges and the withdrawal of charges against National Police Commissioner Fani Masimola. The discussion also explores the NPA's review of IDAC investigations and the implementation of lifestyle audits within the department. Additionally, the episode reports on the denial of bail for Brian Mohoti, a SIU raid on PSIRA offices regarding a failed training contract, and growing diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the United States. The program concludes with listener reactions to affirmative action policies and news regarding budget cuts to quintile five schools in Gauteng.

This episode of The Midday Report features a debate over international relations and domestic education funding. The program begins with listener reactions to an interview with Professor Andre Thomas-Hausen, addressing themes of national sovereignty and historical comparisons between South Africa and the United States. The discussion then shifts to a report on the Gauteng Department of Education's decision to reduce per-pupil funding for Quintile 5 schools from 879 rand to 350 rand. The segment includes an interview with Onwabile Lubhalwana, spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education. The conversation explores the impact of budget constraints on affluent government schools, the adherence to national norms and standards for school funding, and the challenges posed by a doubling of learner enrollment to 2.4 million students.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has formally withdrawn charges against South African Police Service National Commissioner, General Fani Masimola, regarding alleged violations of the PFMA. Following a review process initiated by the NPA, the charges were dropped in the Pretoria Magistrates Court, leaving Masimola without the legal cloud that had previously accompanied his arrest. The episode explores the broader implications of this withdrawal, including General Masimola's concerns regarding the conflation of investigative and prosecutorial functions within the Investigating Directorate (IDAC). Additionally, the report covers the NPA's ongoing review of IDAC matters, planned lifestyle audits for prosecutors and investigators, and the legal complexities surrounding potential misconduct investigations.

This news report covers the live coverage from Randberg Magistrates Court regarding the anticipated court appearance of a 59-year-old Lieutenant General. The officer was taken into custody by members of the Madlanga Commission-related recommendations task team following allegations involving sexual grooming and rape. The broadcast follows reporter Alpha Ramashwana as he monitors the arrival of a police motorcade at the court. The report details the ongoing investigation into alleged offenses involving a 16-year-old girl and an 18-year-old woman, noting that the identity of the officer remains unnamed due to legal restrictions surrounding sexual offense cases.

This episode examines the current state of diplomatic relations between South Africa and the United States. The discussion begins with a clarification from U.S. Ambassador Brent Boesell III regarding reports that he suggested former President Thabo Mbeki act as a mediator in strained bilateral ties. Following this, international relations expert Professor Andre Thomashausen provides an analysis of the economic and political landscape, noting strong day-to-day trade links and American investments despite diplomatic friction. The conversation further explores the complexities of South African affirmative action policies, comparing them to American precedents, and addresses the impact of domestic political pressures on international diplomacy. The segment concludes with a critique of the current South African administration's approach to engaging with U.S. concerns regarding minority groups and historical grievances.

EWN reporter Demakatsu Lashoro reports on the court's decision to deny Brian Makoti bail for the fourth time. The court determined that Makoti is not a trustworthy or reliable applicant due to providing multiple incorrect addresses, including an inexistent location in Johannesburg and a lease agreement in Mabopane that does not reflect his actual residence. The ruling highlights concerns regarding Makoti being a flight risk following allegations of an attempted escape from court. While the defense alleges a personal vendetta by the investigating officer, the court dismissed these claims as unsupported by evidence. The case is postponed to October 1st for the setting of a trial date.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has conducted a search and seizure raid at the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) offices in Centurion. The operation, supported by the DPCI, aims to recover critical documents, electronic devices, and mobile phones following allegations of irregularities and malfeasance regarding a failed R130 million training contract. The investigation focuses on unauthorized deviations and lack of due diligence within three specific contracts: election observer training for the 2024 national and provincial elections, end-user computing, and security grading aspects. The SIU is scrutinizing the advance payment of R73 million and investigating potential misrepresentation, fraud, and dishonesty involving various service providers.

This episode covers major crime reports in South Africa, including the arrest of suspects in the Ekurhuleni murders and a serial rapist in KwaZulu-Natal. It also features President Cyril Ramaphosa's return from sick leave and his comments regarding the national crisis of gender-based violence and US visa restrictions. Additionally, the episode explores updates from the Madlanga Commission, IEC special voting timelines, and political analysis regarding South Africa's policy implementation challenges. The program concludes with a sports report on recent successes for Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and the Proteas netball team.

This episode covers recent developments in South African football and netball. The discussion begins with Mamelodi Sundowns securing a spot in the Africa-Asia leg of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, highlighting the significant $2 million windfall for the club and their international ambitions. The conversation also examines Orlando Pirates' unbeaten league run and their position in the title race against Sundowns. In netball, the focus shifts to the Proteas' performance in the African Netball Cup in Kenya. Despite fielding a young and inexperienced squad without several veteran players, the team has secured consecutive wins against Tanzania and Zimbabwe as they prepare for upcoming matches against Botswana.

This episode features a discussion with political analyst Lucky Matabela regarding the failure of progressive policies in South Africa, often referred to as a 'graveyard of progressive policies.' The conversation explores why high-quality written policies fail to translate into effective governance due to systemic issues within the public service and management systems. The dialogue delves into the mechanics of corruption, specifically how the creation of an economy around government procurement incentivizes officials to avoid direct work in favor of outsourcing for kickbacks. Matabela also addresses the complex legacy of administrative efficiency inherited from the apartheid era, arguing that while the tools of administration were effective, they were used for the wrong purposes and subsequently discarded during the transition to democracy.

An interview with IEC national spokesperson Kate Bapella regarding the opening of special voting applications for the upcoming elections. The discussion covers the two types of special voting—home visits and early voting for election officials—and provides instructions on how registered voters can apply via SMS or at local IEC offices.

Pumalanga taxi boss Joe Ferrari Sibonioni has returned to the Madlanga Commission, providing testimony that significantly diverges from his previous statements regarding the taxi industry and alleged criminal networks. Under cross-examination, Sibonioni has refused to address certain allegations, including tender fraud, claiming they fall outside the commission's terms of reference. The proceedings have highlighted controversial messages between Sibonioni and his colleague Bafane Sendane, involving cryptic references to 'dogs coming' and being 'in charge of the streets,' as well as discussions regarding police officers and potential hitmen.

President Cyril Ramaphosa returns to public duties following a period of medical leave, addressing critical national issues including the surge in gender-based violence and femicide in Ekurhuleni and Soweto. The report covers the President's stance on South Africa's sovereignty in response to US visa restrictions announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding alleged discriminatory laws. Additionally, the discussion touches upon diplomatic tensions involving the Russian ship Lady R and the government's commitment to engaging with international partners without compromising national dignity.

An interview with Colonel Robert Netzuenda, spokesperson for the KwaZulu-Natal police, regarding the recent arrest of a 46-year-old man accused of a 12-year crime spree involving 16 rapes around Cato Manor. The suspect allegedly used methods such as following women from taverns and breaking into homes while concealing his face with pantyhose. The discussion covers the role of specialized units like Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation in using DNA evidence to link the suspect to multiple cases, as well as the challenges posed by suspects being released on bail.

A report on a significant breakthrough in the investigation of killings in Ekurhuleni, where three suspects—one man and two women—are facing court for the murder of Jabalile Ntimba. The victim's body was discovered near Dawn Park, marking the ninth woman murdered in the area since July. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is currently investigating a broader series of murders involving at least ten victims, including a recent case in Soweto. The investigation explores potential motives, such as a suspected love triangle, while addressing public fears regarding the possibility of a serial killer. While police have secured arrests in specific cases like Ntimba's and another incident in Kempton Park, officials remain cautious about linking all ten murders to a single perpetrator due to inconclusive evidence.

Mandy Wiener hosts a report covering protests in Kempton Park regarding the investigation of multiple murders and the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. The episode explores the lack of budget and resources to address GBV, alongside updates on intensified police deployments in Johannesburg and findings from the Midlanga Commission regarding public service inefficiency. The program also covers a health warning from the Department of Health regarding rising Mpox cases and provides a sports update on local football injuries. The episode concludes with an interview with Brent Lindeku, who discusses finding hope through community action and supporting organizations that address social issues.

In this episode of Good Things, host and guest Brent Lindeke discuss the heavy atmosphere in South Africa following recent tragedies involving gender-based violence in Ekurhuleni. While acknowledging the profound sadness and the national conversation surrounding safety, the discussion focuses on the collective response of citizens, including crowdfunding efforts, solidarity marches, and community-led initiatives. The conversation explores how individual actions, social media advocacy, and supporting civil society organizations can drive systemic change. The episode highlights the importance of not succumbing to apathy and instead finding ways to act as 'helpers.' Lindeke introduces helpers.co.za, a free database designed to connect South Africans with organizations working on the ground in areas such as GBV, homelessness, and child welfare. The discussion serves as a call to action for listeners to move beyond symbolic gestures and engage in meaningful support for the backbone of the country's social fabric.

The episode features a discussion with Tola Kele Mganga regarding the role of sports figures and those in power in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The conversation explores the importance of institutional policy changes versus mere awareness raising, specifically noting the silence of certain football captains. The program then transitions into a football preview covering the Betway Premiership and Premier League, discussing Orlando Pirates' unbeaten run, injury concerns for Kaizer Chiefs, and Mamelodi Sundowns' historic opportunity in the Intercontinental Cup. Additionally, there is a brief mention of recent results from Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup.

The Department of Health is urging citizens to remain vigilant following a rapid increase in laboratory-confirmed MPOX cases over the past few weeks. Foster Mahale, spokesperson for the Department of Health, discusses the recent rise in positive cases, particularly around the city of Cape Town in the Western Cape. The discussion covers the transition from the name monkeypox to Mpox to reduce stigma and the activation of contact tracing protocols by health authorities. Listeners are advised on identifying symptoms such as fever, headache, body pains, and specifically the presence of a thick rash or lesions on the face, hands, feet, or genitals. The Department of Health emphasizes that individuals experiencing these symptoms should avoid self-diagnosis or over-the-counter medication and instead present themselves to the nearest healthcare facility for professional screening and testing.

This episode covers a report from the Zondo Commission featuring testimony from Professor Somedoda Fikini, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission. The discussion focuses on the political economy of inefficiency in South Africa, highlighting how billions of rands are returned to the National Treasury because funds are not spent where they are most needed. Professor Fikini describes South Africa as a graveyard for good policy, noting that while the country possesses world-class governance frameworks, implementation and coordination remain significant challenges due to issues within political leadership. The report examines the gap between policy creation and actual execution in public administration.

The podcast episode features an interview with Lieutenant Colonel Kelehile Tepe, the spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), regarding security developments on the East Rand. The discussion focuses on the current deployment of law enforcement in Kempton Park and the level of cooperation between different metropolitan police departments. Lieutenant Colonel Tepe clarifies that while the EMPD is actively patrolling in conjunction with the South African Police Services, they have not received any formal assistance from the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) or the Tshwane Metro Police Department. He advises residents to remain vigilant and travel in groups due to the ongoing security concerns in the area.

JMPD spokesperson Olani Fikhla discusses the intensification of nighttime deployments and targeted crime cut operations across Johannesburg. Following a directive from City Manager Dr. Floyd Brink and Police Commissioner Patrick Chakka, the JMPD has increased proactive policing and community outreach to address recent violent incidents in the region, including border areas near Ekurhuleni. The operation involves high-visibility patrols in densely populated areas and the deployment of specialized units, such as the CCTV reaction unit, tactical response unit, and canine unit. The JMPD is working within an integrated government relations format alongside the South African Police Service and other municipal law enforcement to curb crime and assist in prevention efforts.

DA MP Samantha Graham-Marie discusses the lack of financial resources and effective implementation following the declaration of gender-based violence as a national crisis in South Africa. The conversation highlights concerns regarding the inadequacy of budgets within the Departments of Women, Justice, and Police, noting that while promises have been made, actual funding for interventions remains unverified. Graham-Marie points to issues such as under-resourced victim support centers, the lack of access to services in rural areas like the Eastern Cape, and the failure of government ministers to respond to inquiries regarding budget reallocation.

This report covers ongoing protests in Kempton Park, where religious and civil society groups have organized marches to demand action against gender-based violence and femicide. Following the discovery of nine bodies in the area, including some in Boksburg, demonstrators have presented a memorandum of demand to the Mayor of Ekurhuleni and are currently scrutinizing the effectiveness of local policing at the Kempton Park Police Station. The report highlights the community's call for increased police visibility and more efficient law enforcement following recent high-profile operations.

This episode of the Midday Report covers breaking news in South Africa, including the Electoral Court's dismissal of the ANC's bid to include certain councillors on the ballot and an investigation into eight bodies found on the East Rand. The program features expert analysis from a criminal profiler regarding potential serial killings and an interview with ANC Deputy Secretary General Nomvula Mokanyani on the systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence. The episode also explores community-led environmental initiatives like the 'Alex Water Warriors' in Alexandra. Finally, the discussion shifts to the scientific implications of Artificial Intelligence, featuring Dr. Liam Baker on how AI is solving Millennium Prize problems and the resulting impact on mathematical research and global security.

Hanki Matabani, CEO of the Black Business Council, discusses the potential impact of proposed U.S. visa curbs following announcements from Marco Rubio. The discussion focuses on how individuals advocating for economic transformation or addressing past injustices may face restrictions on entering the United States. Matabani expresses concern regarding the unpredictability of these policies and the difficulty of engaging with the U.S. Embassy to mitigate threats to business travel and international engagement.

This episode features an analysis by international relations expert Dr. Oscar van Heerden regarding a new United States executive order implementing visa restrictions. The policy targets foreign nationals involved in race-based discrimination and the incitement of imminent violence, specifically impacting individuals from South Africa and their families. Dr. van Heerden explores the geopolitical motivations behind this move, linking the US frustration to the ongoing proxy war in Ukraine, tensions with Iran, and the rise of anti-American sentiment within multilateral organizations like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The discussion highlights how South Africa's role as a junior partner in BRICS and its legal actions at the International Court of Justice make it a target for these punitive measures.

An interview with Nolotando Mashalohu, the board deputy chairperson of the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC), regarding the organization's 30th anniversary. The discussion covers the NHFC's historical impact on South African housing, including its role in leveraging R31 billion to contribute to over 829,000 housing opportunities for low to middle-income groups. The conversation explores the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing the national housing backlog and outlines the corporation's vision for the next 30 years. Future goals include becoming an innovative housing finance provider and positioning the NHFC as a global player capable of informing policy.

In this episode, Anne Bernstein of the Center for Development and Enterprise (CDE) discusses the findings of the 'Kickstarting Delivery' report, part of the Johannesburg Matters series. The discussion focuses on the critical need for competent leadership within Johannesburg's municipal entities to address ongoing water, power, and service delivery crises. Bernstein argues that political patronage and coalition-based bargaining have turned key institutions into fiefdoms, emphasizing that reform requires prioritizing technical expertise over political allegiance in mission-critical appointments.

This episode marks the one-year anniversary of the Madlanga Commission, assessing the progress and findings regarding the infiltration of South Africa's criminal justice system. EWN reporter Karinda Jagmohan provides updates on preliminary evidence of corruption among state officials, including the impact on high-ranking figures like the former Police Minister. The report details the growing influence of prison gangs such as the 28s, 27s, and 26s, as well as specialized units like the Big Five gang and the Air Force Gang. The discussion covers the systemic nature of these criminal activities, their connection to street gangs like the Varados, and the resulting financial and security implications for the Department of Correctional Services.

An EWN report from Dawn Park, Ekurhuleni, detailing the discovery of a 23-year-old woman's body found abandoned on the side of a road. The incident is part of a broader mass investigation involving at least nine bodies discovered over recent weeks and months. The report covers police statements regarding potential links between certain cases, the emotional impact on the victim's family, and the involvement of high-ranking officials and Home Affairs in identifying victims.

This episode explores the recent breakthrough in mathematics where a group of 10,000 autonomous AI agents under OpenAI's direction reportedly found a singularity in the Navier-Stokes equations in three dimensions. This achievement represents the solving of one of the six Millennium Prize problems, a feat that has sparked significant debate within the mathematical community regarding the role of artificial intelligence in research. Interviewer and mathematics lecturer Dr. Liam Baker discuss the implications of using massive compute power for mathematical discovery. The conversation covers the divide between mathematicians who embrace AI-driven proofs and those who distrust them due to concerns over lack of human understanding and the sheer complexity of AI-generated documents. The episode also touches upon the practical applications of other unsolved Millennium Prize problems, such as P versus NP, and their impact on global digital security.

This episode of The Hope Dealers features the Alex Water Warriors, a community-led initiative in Alexandra dedicated to restoring the Jukskei River. Driven by local residents rather than outside NGOs, the group works to combat illegal dumping, manage waste through recycling stations, and implement litter traps to protect the river's ecosystem. Their efforts include planting approximately 16,000 trees, creating medicinal gardens, and fostering community entrepreneurship. The project aims to transform the river from a polluted site into a space for ecotourism and safe community recreation. By addressing environmental degradation and providing economic opportunities—particularly for women impacted by the pandemic—the Water Warriors are working to rebuild local pride and establish a sustainable, cleaner future for the residents of Joburg.

The midday report features an interview with ANC First Deputy Secretary Nomvula Mokonyani regarding the recent discovery of multiple bodies in Gauteng. The discussion focuses on the ANC's condemnation of these killings and the broader crisis of gender-based violence in South Africa. Mokonyani addresses the effectiveness of the current justice system, calling for integrated, intelligence-driven responses and a review of how resources are allocated to combat violence against women.

Serial killer profiler Gerard Labouskakhani provides his preliminary analysis of recent criminal cases unfolding in Kempton Park. Based on media reports regarding geographical proximity, timeframe, victimology involving adult black females, and a suspected sexual component, he discusses why these incidents warrant treatment as a serial murder investigation. The episode also explores the strategic reasons behind police reluctance to officially label such cases as serial killings and the importance of activating dedicated task teams early in an investigation.

An EWN report detailing a high-level police briefing regarding the investigation into eight women killed on the East Rand. The briefing included Acting National Police Commissioner Paulin Dempane and Acting Police Minister Feroz Kachalia, addressing speculation surrounding a potential serial killer. The police have acknowledged similarities between the cases but have not officially linked them to a single perpetrator. The report covers the South African Police Service's offer of a 400,000 rand cash reward for information, alongside an appeal to the private sector for additional funding. It also discusses the deployment of additional resources, such as helicopters, by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and mentions the identification of a person of interest currently being sought by authorities.

This episode covers breaking news regarding a recent Electoral Court judgment dismissing the ANC's attempt to include 181 councillors on the ballot after missing nomination deadlines in six provinces. The report details the court's decision, the involvement of the IEC and DEA, and the potential impact on key municipalities such as the Mangaung Metro. The discussion also explores the ANC's potential legal recourse through the Constitutional Court and the broader implications for approximately 2,000 other candidates who failed to finalize their submissions.

This episode investigates a series of brutal murders involving six women on Johannesburg's East Rand, examining the potential for a serial killer and addressing public outcry over police response and allegations of corruption within the JMPD. The discussion also covers South Africa's 'Indulamiti' 2035 economic scenarios, updated crime statistics in the Western Cape, and the relocation of refugees from Durban to Gauteng. Additionally, the episode features a look into the controversy surrounding a Hyrox competition involving world record holder Joanna Vierczyk. The program concludes with listener voice notes addressing concerns regarding scenario planning models and calls for legislative reforms within the South African criminal justice system.