Carte Blanche: The Podcast

Decriminalising illegal mining? Some say that’s the solution to our zama zama problem. Then, the EFF is on life support – can it survive the mass exodus? Also, how many ships do you need to make a navy? Just one, it seems. And why doing something good could land you in court… But first – a massive study into South Africa’s gender-based violence crisis was published last week. With nearly 20 000 households surveyed – consisting of roughly 50% men and 50% women from all walks of life – it serves as a serious wake-up call to government.

Out-of-control incidents of food poisoning push the President to address the nation. Then, violence erupts once more in Mozambique. Later, the SAPS is watching – your TikToks, that is. But first, as taps begin to run dry in parts of Johannesburg, some are sounding the alarm… With about 35% of the metro’s drinkable water lost due to leaks and illegal connections, city management is quickly running out of road to turn things around.

Cape Town’s criminal underworld is up for grabs following Mark Lifman’s murder. Then, caught in a debt spiral – it’s time for government to clean house. Later, spam calls be gone! And how well do you know your national symbols? But first: it’s been called one of the biggest, most dramatic political comebacks in recent history. As Donald Trump wins a second term in the Oval Office, his election victory reveals a lot about the American voter. With just over half of the US population saying “Yes, we want more of Trump”, his presidency is sure to deliver a fair amount of chaos. But with promises of better living conditions, most Americans are seemingly more than willing to put up with it. The rest of the world be damned…

Another tender, another scandal. But it might not be too late. Then, it’s back to school for ANC members. We ask: what’s the point? Later, the US elections are here and it could be an uncomfortably close race. And a win for families as Tiger Brands offers to pay up. But first: this past week’s mini-budget was hardly one for the history books. With a strong emphasis on early retirement and public-private partnerships when it comes to infrastructure projects, we unpack some of the key points.

All for show… Why this year’s BRICS Summit felt rather pointless. Later, why hundreds of medical professionals are fleeing to Canada. Then, society is seemingly calling it quits on news. Why that’s a problem. And how one women’s vision reshaped the mental health conversation in South Africa. But first, another girl found dead at the hands of a depraved man. The country recoiled in horror as 6-year-old Amantle Samane was raped and murdered in Orlando East in Soweto last week. She becomes yet another young life lost in the most brutal way imaginable. With a man in custody, and court proceedings expected to continue this coming Friday, young Amantle’s murder comes as the country grapples with two more court cases involving child trafficking and murder. We look at how these handful of cases serve as a reflection on our very broken society.

The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface, making it the largest living space on our planet. It’s a vast world, largely unexplored, and has the ability to both soothe and terrify. Embracing both these on a daily basis is Zandile Ndlovu, lovingly known by many as The Black Mermaid. Conservationist, activist, filmmaker, author, and South Africa’s first black female freediving instructor, Zandi has now added one more title to her long list of achievements – penguin warrior. We sit down with this formidable woman of the water to find out more about life under the sea, embracing fear, saving penguins, and changing lives.

Budget cuts threaten to decimate our already fragile education sector. Later, express kidnappings are on the rise – we look at the stats. Then, a national hero – why rape survivor Alison Botha needs your help. And it’s bye-bye Karpowership! But first, more than 100 days in, our government of national unity is teetering on the edge as various political parties struggle to meet each other halfway. From the highly controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill to National Health Insurance – powersharing roleplayers just can’t see eye-to-eye. So, can a newly formed conflict resolution committee be the GNU’s saving grace?

An organisation being torn apart from the inside – what the conflict between two ANC heavyweights reveals about the party. Then, another fail for former Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Later, the US hurricanes serve as a sobering preview of things to come. And a Minister on a mission – Gayton McKenzie delivers on his promises. But first, now that the City of Tshwane has a new mayor at the helm, two coalition role players are pulling in two very different directions. On the one hand, we have the DA making demands – give us back our mayor, or else. And on the other, the EFF is showing us its mature side and calling for stability. All this while the battle for Ekurhuleni heats up…

Labour Department raids expose dodgy employers. Then, the Lusikisiki Massacre reignites the illegal firearms conversation… Later, the tenth of October is D-day for Durban as taps run dry. And a fascinating study on how viable a universal grant could be in South Africa. But first, the City of Tshwane finds itself rudderless once more as city mayor Cillier Brink is kicked from his mayoral seat. However, he might still make a triumphant return… Meanwhile, a few more candidates are waiting in the wings…

While the GNU looks healthy more than 100 days in, the same can’t be said for provincial government… Then, from Palestine to Lebanon – why President Ramaphosa believes South Africa could play an integral mediation role. Later, why Eskom’s proposed tariff hikes won’t address the real issue… Also, are we turning a corner in the fight against rhino poaching? And we find inspiration in the stories of 35 trailblazers under 35. But first, as pressure mounts on the ANC and President Cyril Ramaphosa to act against Justice Minister, Thembi Simelane, some are beginning to say this is all part of a ploy to halt prosecutions in the VBS and State Capture matters.

Beware the lemon… A cautionary tale when it comes to buying a second-hand car. Then, another state-owned enterprise – this time to tackle our water woes. Also, how exploding pagers and walkie-talkies pave the way for a new kind of warfare. Later, how the world’s smelliest fruit is contributing to skyrocketing coffee prices. And the wheels of justice turn slowly – but at least, they’re turning. But first, just over two weeks into its existence, the two-pot retirement fund has already led to billions of rands making its way back into the economy.

Something is rotten in the state of… Joburg. From libraries to roads and everything in between – we look at the Joburg Files. Then, Helen Joseph Hospital hell. Later, wage negotiation season is officially open. Why public servants are fighting an uphill battle. We also discuss the rather bizarre US presidential debate. And a lesson in zen – how breathing and hamsters can help you chill. But first, we reflect on Pravin Gordhan's legacy.

In this special crime-focused extended episode, we ask how a Memorandum of Understanding can potentially turn the tide against crime in the Western Cape. Then, no one is safe from extortion rackets - not even schools... Later, why are food poisoning incidents on the rise? And how one man turned personal tragedy into triumph for hundreds of disabled children nationwide. But first, amaPanyaza is here to stay! Why is Panyaza Lesufi not willing to let go of his beloved crime prevention unit?

An SOE shakeup is welcomed by most – so is it a move in the right direction? Then, from podcasts to politics – what Roman Cabanac’s controversial appointment says about the DA. Later, do we have a compromised Minister of Justice? And bringing the gees to the Paralympics in Paris. But first, as we celebrate day 160 of no loadshedding, it seems South Africa has reached a crucial turning point in our 17-year-long energy crisis. Pessimists will say: don’t hold your breath, while optimists (such as ourselves) are eagerly awaiting a blackout-free summer.

Scorpions 2.0 is a go after years of delays… Then, the forgotten continent – mpox shows how Africa is often overlooked. Later, a win for South Africans as inflation hits a three-year low. And forget about free Willy. It’s free Charlie the Elephant! But first, as many South Africans struggle to come to terms with the murder of 16-year-old Deveney Nel earlier this month, and the family of slain Pastry Princess, Thembekile Letlape, try and come to terms with her death at the hands of an alleged abusive boyfriend, we ask – once again – what needs to happen for women and girls in South Africa to be safe?

Out with the old and in with the… uhm, new? Dada Morero takes over as Joburg mayor. Then, the latest unemployment figures highlight the desperate situation so many South Africans find themselves in. Later, a new Human Trafficking report places South Africa at the centre of criminal networks operating across the continent. And does a sperm donor a father make? A recent ruling says: no. But first: Floyd Shivambu – one of the founding members of the Economic Freedom Fighters – defected in dramatic fashion last week, leaving the political party facing an uncertain future.

From Khayelitsha shootout to courtroom misfire – why an open-and-closed case was scrapped from the roll. Later, a worsening scholar transport crisis is putting our children at risk. Then, xenophobic bullies take aim at a Miss SA contestant, while xenophobes in the UK wreak havoc. And an Olympics of a different kind as space geeks unite in Cape Town. But first, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party continues making headlines for all the wrong reasons – this time for its seemingly out-of-the-blue decision to oust at least 15 of its MPs. The party says: this was always the plan, but others warn this has the makings of an aggressive takeover.

The youth are getting thrifty – how Gen Z and Millennials are reclaiming their financial power. Then, Kabelo Gwamanda must go! But is he the only one to blame for Joburg’s ruin? Later, an illegal military training camp in Mpumalanga. How did government miss it? And gold, silver and bronze – our Olympic athletes are bringing home the medals. But first, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (known as AGOA) is once again topping the agenda as the United States is seemingly warming to the idea of keeping South Africa around as a trade partner. Meanwhile, the Minister of Trade and Industry and his Deputy are confident our membership will be renewed. But there’s still a lot that could happen between now and September next year.

Is government’s plan to get off the greylist being hampered by some estate agents and lawyers? Then, we talk about the p-word – no, not that one. We ask whether privatisation is the answer. Later, chartreuse green, coconut trees and brats – Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign is giving. And welcome to the International Space Station. You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave… But first, as Carte Blanche wraps up its two-part investigation into extortion rackets in the Western Cape, we ask what needs to happen to prevent yet another crime trend from taking hold.

The GNU looks stable, but some GPUs are seemingly headed for the ICU. Then, why it’s time for the EFF to speak up about VBS.Later, Independent Media’s big blunder as a bizarre campaign targets the wrong man. And with the Paris Olympics just days away, we focus on the star South African athletes going for gold. But first, Parliament is in session and there’s a lot of work to be done. Why last week’s Opening of Parliament Address gives us hope for the next five years…

The Gauteng Cabinet is crumbling as the ANC, DA and EFF struggle to see eye-to-eye. Then, starting claims made by the former CEO of VBS Mutual Bank. But are these just the ramblings of man desperate for a lighter sentence? Why appointing a jaded former judge to the JSC has experts concerned. And some closure in the Life Esidimeni tragedy. But first, just days into his tenure as new Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Patriotic Alliance leader, Gayton McKenzie ruffled a few feathers.

Two South African engineers continue to languish in an Equatorial Guinea prison – now, the UN says: release them. From a disastrous debate to concerning moves by the US Supreme Court – is the American dream fading? Then, nuclear rhino horn and taxing cow farts – we look at the more quirky solutions to combat poaching and climate change. But first, we finally have a Cabinet – and it’s a biggie! With President Ramaphosa adding two ministers and seven deputy ministers, South Africa’s national executive is the largest it’s ever been. We look at some of the more surprising appointments and ask whether being qualified for the job is what matters most…

Hospitals under siege – why it’s time to pay attention to cyberattacks on healthcare systems. From chatbots to image generators and transcription tools – AI is here to stay, and South Africans are loving it. Then, protests in Kenya continue as the youth say: no more. Later, how a simple tech solution is keeping moms-to-be safe. And why a Hilux bakkie named Edna captured the hearts of many. But first, it’s a case of on again, off again... Why did a seemingly solid GNU fall to pieces within a matter of hours, and what does this say about the future under a coalition government?

Another week, another blow to independent media. We send out an SOS. Comparing apples and pears… literally. The Competition Commission warns fresh produce wholesalers to stop its anti-competitive practices. Later, Ray Mahlaka tells us why he believes Transnet is about to stage the biggest turnaround in business history. And women in Soweto are saying: Funk It, I’m Walking. But first: it was a lavish affair, but now the real work begins. Now that the presidential inauguration is behind us, and the fight for cabinet positions continues, we look at how the markets have responded to the Government of National Unity, President Ramaphosa’s second term, and discover everyone from industry to ratings agencies believe we’re finally on a road to recovery.

It’s official: the ANC, DA and IFP have formally signed an agreement to form a Government of National Unity. But what does it all mean? How the MK Party overplayed its hand… Then, the struggle for ministerial positions continues, and we can’t help but wonder whether politicians have forgotten about the people. Later, a race against time as cases of mpox are on the rise. We also look at why Transnet is crying foul of a World Bank report. And why should cattle farmers paint eyes on their animals’ backsides? We find out.

New faces, new voices – we look at the big changes on the Members of Parliament list. Then, from political drama to courtroom drama – we do a quick-take on some major cases. Later, devastation across parts of KZN – again. Also, are willing fathers unfairly excluded from their children’s lives by the legal system. And Mexico welcomes its first female president and we’re ready to take notes. But first, as the ANC moves towards a Government of National Unity, the fight over policies begins. Whether its giving back the land or nationalising the Reserve Bank, or even scrapping BEE… Heck, some parties are even pushing for the scrapping of the Constitution altogether. So, what’s a coalition government to do when policies clash?

South Africa officially enters a new political era. So, now what? Then, the IEC takes a battering as voters and some political parties say: we expected better. Later, we ask: what more needs to happen before the humanitarian crisis in Gaza gets the urgent attention it deserves? And a new medical trial could change the way we handle everything from dentistry to bone diseases. But first, it’s the big C-word many of us have been anticipating. As the IEC declares this year’s election results, coalition negotiations are already in high gear. And with Jacob Zuma’s MK Party kicking dust in the faces of many major political parties, the intricate coalition game is sure to deliver a few more surprises.

Ethical leadership, releasing the land to the people, and setting up a food security council in the Free State. These are just some of the things independent candidate, Sesing Ramotswabodi is putting on the table to convince voters to give him a chance. But running for office is a daunting task and the challenges are many – even for the biggest political parties out there. Masa Kekana finds out why Sesing thinks he stands a chance.

He’s the face of Build One South Africa (or BOSA), a relatively new party that’s garnered a fair amount of attention. Mmusi Maimane is a well-known political contender who aims to bring new, fresh voices to the local scene. But will voters be able to separate him from his DA legacy? Masa Kekana speaks to Maimane about BOSA’s goals and why he believes an “uberised response system” is the answer to South Africa’s crime problem.

Election week is upon us and it will be all eyes on the results as they start trickling in from across the country. Then, political killings are on the increase. Could it get worse pending the election outcomes? Later, President Cyril Ramaphosa is eager to sign off on yet another Bill. Why you should care about the so-called spy bill. Also, are we facing a mental health crisis? Some experts say: yes. And it’s all because of that smartphone in your hand. And we celebrate the appointment of our new Chief Justice.

South Africa's education landscape faces a sobering reality. Alongside issues like bullying, substance abuse and vandalism, rampant sexual abuse and grooming add to the burden experienced by many schoolchildren. Many cases go unreported, but the statistics paint a clear picture of a trend that demands urgent attention. Having recently launched on Mnet Channel 101, a four-part documentary series called School Ties takes a sobering look at a culture of grooming and sexual abuse within some of the country's most elite private schools. We're joined by series producer Richard Gregory to find out more about Operation Nemo, a specialized police investigation into sports coaches targeting vulnerable students, and why school ties should serve as a wake-up call for parents and educators alike.

Two-pot what? With just four months before it goes live, we look at the two-pot retirement system. How the local drone industry is quite literally lifting off in a big way. Then, could we face another bird flu epidemic? Why the novel H7N6 strain is cause for concern. Later – a new road safety survey calls drivers out on their bad habits. And South Africans are gatvol – so they’re fixing things themselves. But first, President Cyril Ramaphosa found his pen and the Rolls Royce of healthcare has been signed into law this past week. But not everyone is celebrating the National Health Insurance Bill. But don’t cancel your medical aid just yet…

Shell is gone – what the oil giant’s exit from South Africa really means. Then, a burning flag sends some South Africans into a fiery rage. Later, Israel ups the ante as ground forces intensify their presence in Gaza. And could it soon be lights off for Joburg? Perhaps, if Eskom gets its way. But first, several construction workers remain trapped beneath the rubble after a five-storey apartment building in George in the Western Cape collapsed. While it’s too early to determine the cause, South Africans want answers.

Worker’s Day or Unemployment Day? Millions of South Africans have little to celebrate. As the search for missing Joshlin Smith continues, we look at the growing crisis our children face. Then, a major political move to free two South Africans imprisoned in Equatorial Guinea. And is that some hope we see on the horizon? Eskom says: you bet. But first – small parties with a potentially big swing. As more fringe parties grab the attention of major contenders, we ask whether organisations vying for independent territories could have any impact on SA politics.

Several political parties – both big and small – are coming out in full force as the elections creep ever closer. But what’s truly on offer? And how capable are the many political parties of sticking to those promises? We speak to Eyewitness News politics associate editor and Politricking host, Tshidi Madia, about manifestos, the biggest potential losers, own goals and whether your chosen party is willing to sell its soul in the coalition game.

The NPA is tired of waiting and urges ministers, accused and others to get a move-on. Then, carnage in the Cape as gangs take hold. Later, the Forgotten War – we turn our focus to Sudan’s worsening civil war. And the Supreme Court of Appeal comes to rape victims’ defence. But first, this past Sunday, Carte Blanche aired a special 90-minute documentary titled 30 Years of Democracy. With the elections only a month away, we look back at the difficult road travelled, the importance of hope, and the future of a nation on the cusp of change.

Daily Maverick has shut down – well, sort of. Why all South Africans should pay attention. It’s the battle of Public Protectors – but at what cost? Then, the ANC is confident it will reign victorious come the May elections. And a win for Siya Kolis, Limpopo musicians… and South Africa as a whole. But first, we try and understand why so many people are convinced that the late former Steinhoff CEO, Markus Jooste, is faking his own death…

Devastating storms in the Western Cape have us worried about what the future holds. A nation left vulnerable – we look at the dire state of our military. Then, how one man is saving lives – one box of medication at a time. And the so-called Hardest Geezer does the unimaginable. But first, it’s been a busy week for the IEC as not one but two major court judgments had everyone buzzing.

Bring back the Scorpions! No more parole. Penal colonies in the Kalahari. And grand corruption will be declared a “crime against humanity”. Furthermore, the triple BEE model will be scrapped – but is a proposed replacement just BEE dressed up in a fancier name? Masa Kekana sits down with ActionSA’s Herman Mashaba to find out how the party hopes to achieve many of its lofty promises.

As the inquiry into the deadly Usindiso building fire wraps up, survivors are running out of time. Another step closer to Eskom 2.0 – but will it solve our power problems? Then, several arrests in the Fort Hare University scandal exposes a deadly network of crime and corruption. And bye-bye e-tolls? Government says: we promise.

A private education giant has fallen, leaving devastated students and parents in its wake. The ANC finds itself between a rock and a hard place as the National Speaker faces arrest. Later, we reflect on a few stories that made us question reality. And how an invasive plant is bringing hope to families in the Northern Cape.

The clear divide between what government chooses to celebrate on Human Rights Day, and what’s really happening on the ground. Then, one basic human right countless South Africans are living without. Later, we need to talk about the MK Party… And how kids on the Cape Flats are helping sunbirds find their way home.

With just over two months to go before South Africans are set to make their mark, Masa Kekana sits down with My Vote Counts campaigner, Keamogetswe Seipato, to find out why this election feels so different. What's truly at stake? Who has the most to lose? And why the youth hold the power to change it all.

We’re joined by journalist, Takudzwa Pongweni to take us into this past week’s The Gathering. Then, are local news publications suffering because of tech giants? Has X become a safe space for cyberbullies? One activist says: yes. Later, Nigeria comes down hard on plastic pollution, but is it the best solution? And Gauteng’s Green Army is uplifting communities one veggie garden at a time.

All is not well with Knysna, and a 109-page report tries to explain why. You’ve heard of state capture. But are we entering an era of media capture?Then, the High Court says no to anti-vaxxers. Later, how one mining giant is playing its part in reviving Mpumalanga’s rivers. And the country has been gripped by the heartbreaking case of young Joshlin Smith. Following arrests last week, we look at the state’s case and how online sleuths perhaps took things too far.

Cadre deployment: what does it mean, who’s benefiting and is the DA really in a position to complain?But first: Arrests at last! A massive breakthrough in the AKA murder case gives us hope.Then, AI saves the day as SARS uses tech to take back taxes. And the fight against HIV and AIDS gets a massive boost as a game-changing pilot project goes live.

Causing a stink in Cape Town – the so-called livestock death ship reignites a decades-long debate. Eradicate pit latrines or else – why government has failed to address this human rights violation. Then, we finally have an election date! And why is the ANC staying quiet on Alexei Navalny's death?

The Usindiso Inquiry continues and it highlights the City of Joburg’s many failings. The death of an 11-year-old boy shines the spotlight on unfinished building projects across the country. Then, a feel-good update on a story that left many of our followers seeing red. And conservation news reminds us what we are capable of if we work together. But first, it’s the dreaded Budget week where we are given a sobering overview of the country’s finances. However, if the ANC’s recent comments on loadshedding and state capture are anything to go by, it seems we’re very much on our own…

Someone hide the pens! While the President is eager to sign off on the NHI Bill, organisations and opposition parties are sounding the alarm. Then, the taxman is telling controversial businessman Edwin Sodi to pay up. And we quench our thirst for some good news as we celebrate Tyla’s Grammy win.

Over the years, Carte Blanche has done several investigations into alleged child sexual abuse at various elite boys’ schools across the country. Our focus was primarily on several sports coaches who are either currently facing allegations of child grooming and sexual assault, or have been prosecuted. One thing that was seen in all our investigations was the culture of secrecy that so often prevents victims from speaking out against their abuser. Masa Kekana sits down with Luke Lamprecth from Women and Men Against Child Abuse to gain more insight into why paedophiles often choose aquatic sports to gain access to their young victims, what schools can do to ensure career paedophiles aren’t able to move from one school to the next, and why parents should also guard themselves from being groomed.

It’s SONA week and we’re certain many South Africans aren’t too bothered about even watching the whole affair. But with a potentially life-altering election looming, this might be the most important SONA in years… No spark was found, but a recent lacklustre report on the 2021 July riots certainly sparked controversy. Then, campus horrors as the dark underbelly of Stellenbosch initiation culture is exposed. But is this an isolated case? Then, we head off to the Karoo to visit a tiny town with a few big surprises. And we dig into unsolved mysteries – maybe you could help us find the missing pieces.

Is Jacob Zuma an ANC problem or a South African problem? We recently discussed the former president's comments against the ruling party in this week's episode of The WholeWeek Wrap with Daily Maverick and why his suspension isn't necessarily a win for a fractured ANC.

Joining us this week is financial journalist, Ray Mahlaka to help us dissect everything from elections to what’s been happening at this past week’s World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos. Then, we ask the question: is it too late for Transnet? And promises, promises, promises. As election season kicks off, Ray tells us what he wants to see and hear from SA’s politicians. That and more, so let’s get into it.

It was when her longtime clients were most vulnerable – dealing with the passing of loved ones – that one Pretoria accountant allegedly dipped into their funds. But where were the industry watchdogs when things went very wrong?

They call it TV-on-demand – giving consumers access to hundreds of channels and streaming services, all at their fingertips. But what are you really bringing into your home with cheap, illegal TV boxes?

A hospital designed for patients and built by doctors determined to bring change. Why this new medical facility in Joburg is a game-changer.

In this extended episode, we look at what 2024 might hold. From major elections both locally and internationally, the rise of watershedding, and the dawn of AI. We also examine how global superpowers might have to step aside as Brazil, India and even South Africa are set to have greater political influence. That and so much more in the final episode of 2023.

The concept of ecopsychology is becoming a big talking point as experts encourage individuals to feel the grass beneath their feet, breathe in the fresh air, watch wildlife go about their day, or get their hands dirty in the garden. We sit down with Conservation Psychologist, Dr Andrea Marais-Potgieter. Exploring the connection between humans and nature, Andrea understands just how important it is to reconnect with the natural world while also healing nature in the process.

An out-of-the-box approach to bring their son back from the brink of death. Josh Crickmay is living a big adventure, repaying a life debt to mother nature.

It's Dezemba and it's been a whopper of a year overflowing with news events that left us stunned, surprised, infuriated, despondent, and inspired. We look back on some of the major newsmakers that had an impact on us and the nation.

He used a popular social media platform for professionals to lure his unsuspecting international clients. But once they paid up, the so-called LinkedIn Swindler disappeared with their money. But police are on his trail.

A devastating outbreak of bird flu, farmers on the brink of financial ruin and a last-ditch attempt to prevent food shortages. Can the poultry industry survive SA’s worst outbreak in recorded history?

First-time voters show up in full force, but will it be enough to effect change in the upcoming national elections? We talk about coalitions – again – as a minority party speaker takes her place in Joburg. Then, the ongoing war in Gaza hits close to home as the ANC takes a stance. And how one programme is turning learners into leaders.

It should have been a moment of celebration; hundreds of donations from generous Carte Blanche viewers delivered to children with special needs at Ikwezi Lokusa. But it almost ended in anger and frustration for the volunteers...

It’s estimated about one in four women will have a hysterectomy by the age of 55. Melanie Verwoerd became part of that statistic, and endured months of a gruelling recovery after her surgery – but now for the big question: was the operation even necessary?

We look at why Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has his sights set on Africa. Then, a Harvard report provides some clues on how to fix the country. We make sense of the Forex Cartel case involving multiple major banks. Later, the global fight against TB continues and South Africa is leading the way. And does size really matter? When it comes to small towns, the answer is no.

Fuel spiking, cross-border tax fraud, under-declaring of quantities… We expose a game of dodgy clearing agents and fake paperwork as the underground dirty fuel industry costs the country billions. We go undercover.

As South Africa continues to celebrate the Springboks' recent Rugby World Cup victory, we look back on their thrilling journey and get a glimpse of things to come.

As the war in Gaza continues, we look at the inexcusable human cost on both sides. Then, the fight against corruption continues but is government even in our corner? Later, Transnet has gone off the rails and another bail out is probably not the best solution. And hold onto hope and celebrate the beauty of South Africa as we wrap things up with a few green shoots.

Peacekeepers, force multipliers, or a Premier's private army? Hastily deployed with training still in progress and now accused of brutal assault. We investigate how Gauteng's Crime Prevention Wardens might become a law unto themselves.

She's among the rare few experts who can decipher the secrets in bones. Through her work, she reveals how and why a newborn baby passed away.

Is there a doctor in the house? Certainly not when it comes to bogus doctor, Matthew Lani. Homeless and hopeless: survivors of the Marshalltown Fire are left to fend for themselves. Then, as loadshedding makes its unwelcome return, Eskom delivers even more bad news. And we pay tribute to two inspiring individuals - Professor Shabir Madhi and Nompilo Dlamini.

It’s compact, lightweight and has a top speed of 70km an hour. In the cutthroat business of e-hailing services, the Bajaj Qute is an unwelcome competitor. But is the new kid on the block operating illegally and putting the lives of motorists and commuters at risk?

While poaching continues to decimate South Africa’s rhino, conservation efforts were given a lifeline with the purchase of the world’s largest population of privately owned rhino. Can an audacious plan by NGO African Parks to rewild 2,000 of them help save white rhino in South Africa?

The ANC wants to call it quits on partnering with the EFF. The latest Brenthurst Survey predicts some interesting 2023 election outcomes. Then, the AGOA Forum kicks off this week. And the SA Music Awards in limbo. But first, Erin Bates and Queenin Masuabi look at the Springboks' unforgettable Rugby World Cup journey and how it’s inspired a nation.

Explosions, sinkholes, earth tremors. Beneath our feet, the dangerous, volatile world of zama zamas. But could rampant illegal gold mining ultimately destroy Johannesburg?

Runner Jono Kruger runs with purpose. We meet the local hero who’s challenging poverty in the lives of children in his Eastern Cape.

The Western Cape is under siege as gang violence and organised crime takes hold. A damning report on last year’s Parliament blaze confirms what we all kind of knew. Then, is this another Life Esidimeni on the cards? The horrendous state at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital’s psychiatric ward. And the Train of Hope that’s bringing healthcare to the masses.

The Johannesburg Property Company is back in the spotlight as questions emerge around its current board, while a controversial CEO manages to stay under the radar.

He’s a popular figure in his community and a well-known pharmacist in Gauteng. Now under investigation for allegedly trading codeine on the black market, we find out what he’s been hiding.

You've listened to our recent stories on suspended lawyer Zuko Nonxuba and the terrible conditions at Ikwezi Lokusa Special School. Now, we speak to the producer behind both these ongoing investigations, Tarryn Crossman. From traversing the rural areas of the Eastern Cape in search of Nonxuba's alleged victims, to going undercover to witness the horrors at Ikwezi Lokusa - Tarryn takes us behind the camera.

We’ve seen the devastation of the Israel-Hamas War and South Africa won’t be left unscathed. Is Pravin the problem? Why our SOEs just can’t seem to get it right. Then, South Africa closes the books on Steinhoff. And grains of hope in the latest census report.

Carte Blanche is known for telling hard-hitting, impactful stories. But some stories hit harder than others, most notably our stories on matters affecting children. Two recent investigations left Masa Kekana and Govan Whittles shaken - our exposé on suspended lawyer, Zuko Nonxuba, and an undercover investigation into Ikwezi Lokhusa Special School. Masa and Govan discuss the difficulties around telling these stories and how they deal with the emotional toll that follows.

A global event hosted with a promise of the glorious legacy that would put SA soccer on the map. But a decade on, the promises lay plundered. Who stole the country’s footballing hope.

When the deadly cholera outbreak struck Hammanskraal in May, the town was invaded by media, microphones, blue lights and politicians. Promises were made. So, why are the very people who lost their loved ones to cholera still dependent on the water tankers they blame for the outbreak?

Two big findings by Parliament's Ethics Committee have everyone riled up. A doping scandal of a different kind as government misses a crucial deadline. Has South Africa passed the point of no return as kidnappings and assassinations become the order of the day? Government places its bets on the Post Bank. And two South African teachers get recognised for their work in uplifting the youth.

During the deadly taxi strike, Philippi East - a crime-ridden suburb - was caught in the crossfire. Now, with a precarious truce struck between the City of Cape Town and taxi bosses, can this community move on?

Fast cars, dirt roads and a passion for racing… Ordinarily, you wouldn’t associate this with a school. But one school in the Eastern Cape is helping students leave the classroom in the dust!

The recent Cape Town floods have us wondering just how prepared national government is for extreme weather events. Then, we look at how the ANC is failing the people of South Africa. And we reflect on the tragic lives of Zoleka and Winnie Mandela.

In the Eastern Cape, well-known lawyer, Zuko Nonxuba allegedly defrauded his young clients: children living with disabilities. But despite him operating for years, the organisation that ensures lawyers fulfil their mandate failed to stop him.

Three children are murdered in South Africa every day. The most recent crime stats reveal that 293 children were murdered between April and June this year - a 20 percent increase. Shockingly, many of these cases are unresolved.

When soccer star Senzo Meyiwa was shot dead, Zamokuhle Mbatha’s life changed forever. Charged with his brutal murder and paraded in court, he was the first suspect in the case. But the police got it wrong.

Eskom sees less loadshedding in our future. But how optimistic should we be? The National State Enterprises Bill has ruffled a few feathers. So, what does it all mean? Markus Jooste says it wasn't him. How plausible is his defence? President Ramaphosa's dubious June peace mission to Ukraine and Russia is bearing fruit - sort of. And when it comes to loadshedding, a sense of humour will get you far. Just ask Trevor Noah.

In Johannesburg, at least 77 people were killed after a fire tore through a five-storey building. Witnesses say most of the victims didn’t stand a chance. Now, as the city scrambles for answers, we investigate how hijacked buildings could bring the inner city to its knees.

Gripped by unemployment and frantic to find a way out… How ruthless job scammers are preying on job seekers.

Taking the courageous - and possibly dangerous - step of blowing the whistle on fraud and corruption has just become a lot easier. Meet the heroes of Whistleblower House where safety and support have found a new address.

National Treasury wants to tighten the purse strings and not everyone is keen on the idea. A civil servant strike has the City of Tshwane on its knees, while other metros across the country are teetering on the edge. Then, we celebrate the Rugby World Cup gees and look at ways to fix the country.

There’s virtually no game of rugby that doesn’t result in some concussion injuries. But the big question: how many knocks does it take to cause long-term, irreversible damage? We reveal breakthroughs in concussion research that help protect the players and the game.

There's no denying: the South African economy is on shaky ground. As a result, many business across the country are struggling to keep head above water, leaving many owners dent-ridden and facing impending collapse. But business rescue could be a life-saver, especially if you act early. Masa Kekana speaks to business rescue practitioners about the pros and cons of the process and why it's not necessarily the end of the road for some.