UbuntuRadioZA

Ubuntu Radio special interview with Department of Tourism’s Director General, Mr Victor Vele on the success of *Tourism Revitalisation Programme* on the margins of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 held in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Ubuntu Radio interview with Ms Winile Mtungwa, the Deputy Director: Durban Tourism following the conclusion of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Ubuntu Radio interview with South African Tourism’s Chief Marketing Officer, Ms Sithembile Ndaba at the conclusion of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Opening remarks by Hon Dr Abbas Araghichi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. New Delhi, India 14/05/2026

Opening remarks by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Lamola during the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. New Delhi, India

Welcome remarks by Hon Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India during the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

Soza Simango City of Tshwane Head Of Tourism.mp3 by Ubuntu Radio

Ubuntu Radio conversation with Mr Sebulon Chicalu, the CEO of Namibia Tourism Board following a landmark announcement made on the margins of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 aimed at strengthening regional collaboration between Namibia, South Africa (specifically Cape Town), and Zimbabwe to promote integrated tourism routes and boost international arrivals, Durban. 13/05/2026

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Lamola in conversation with WION -News. The Minister outlined South Africa 's priorities ahead of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs Meeting in India.

Ubuntu Radio interview with Mr Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, the Chief Executive Officer of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), speaking on the sidelines of Africa’s Tourism Indaba 2026 in Durban, KZN.

Ms. Crezelda Venter, Gauteng Tourism Authority’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, speaking to Ubuntu Radio at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 in Durban, KZN.

As the global tourism landscape evolves, digitalisation is becoming a critical driver of growth competitiveness and visitor experience. Minister Patricia De Lille has led a panel discussion with other African Tourism Ministers exploring how the tourism sector can harness technology to unlock new opportunities through digital marketing to reach and engage global travellers , digital visa systems to improve seamless travel, and data-driven digital tools that support smarter decision-making and destination management.

SENIOR OFFICIALS MID-TERM REVIEW OF THE 3RD SESSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA – THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE BI-NATIONAL COMMISSION 13 – 15 MAY 2026

SENIOR OFFICIALS MID-TERM REVIEW OF THE 3RD SESSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA – THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE BI-NATIONAL COMMISSION 13 – 15 MAY 2026

Ubuntu Radio in conversation with High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to India, Prof. Anil Sooklal ahead of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs Meeting.

KZN Premier Thami Ntuli - Africa's Travel Indaba Opening.mp3 by Ubuntu Radio

Minister Patricia De Lille Africa's Travel Indaba Official Opening.mp3 by Ubuntu Radio

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, officially opened and addressed Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Held under the theme, “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy”, the Indaba is a platform for leaders of the African tourism industry, investors, media, international tour operators, bookers and government leaders, whose mandate is to grow and develop tourism on the continent. The Indaba provides an opportunity for buyers from around the world to purchase a variety of tourism products available in South Africa and across the continent. Africa’s biggest tourism trade gathering also allows industry leaders to deliberate on new policies, emerging trends, and the opportunities and threats facing the tourism sector from both African and global perspectives. Tourism is a critical driver of investment and job creation for the eThekwini Municipality, the rest of the province, and South Africa. The Indaba will run from 12 to 14 May 2026. Tourism remains a key economic driver for South Africa, contributing significantly to job creation, investment attraction and inclusive economic growth. According to Statistics South Africa’s Tourism Satellite Account, the sector accounted for 953 981 direct jobs by 2024 and contributed 4,9% to the country’s economy, surpassing the pre-pandemic contribution of 3,7% in 2019. Tourism currently sustains approximately 1.8 million direct and indirect jobs across the country. Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 delivered a strong economic contribution, generating R246.8 million in direct expenditure and contributing R610.6 million to South Africa’s GDP, while supporting 1 104 jobs. The event also recorded hotel occupancy of 97%, highlighting the important role major tourism events play in stimulating economic activity, supporting local businesses, and promoting South Africa’s global competitiveness as a destination.

Africa’s Travel Indaba’s Business Opportunity Networking Day kickstarted with a Panel Discussion on “Africa’s Narrative as the World’s Tourism Powerhouse” held at the Durban ICC, Kwa-Zulu Natal. 11/05/2026

Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu Keynote Address at Africa's Travel Indaba BON Day.mp3 by Ubuntu Radio

Ubuntu Radio in conversation with Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni the Founder & Executive Chairman Universal Greening Organisation (UGO),

Gauteng has it all! From the vibrant #CityOfGold to the historic #CradleOfHumankind, and the breathtaking #DinokengGameReserve—the only Big 5 destination in our province. ​Today, MEC Ewan Botha, spoke with Tali Munzhedzi of UbuntuRadioZA at the #ExperienceDinokeng event. He highlighted the critical role our #DiplomaticCommunity plays in showcasing #Gauteng’s world-class infrastructure and tourism offerings to the world. ​As we celebrate #AfricaMonth, we are proud to offer #AfricaInOneDay." It's time to bolster our local gems and invite the world to experience the heart of South Africa. 🇿🇦🦁 ​#MeetingsDinokeng #GautengTourism #VisitGauteng #DigitalDiplomacy #AfricaMonth2026

Toshihiro Kitamura Japan's Foreign Press Secretary Interview on Sa-Japan Bilateral Meeting The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, will host the Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr Toshimitsu Motegi, on 05 May 2026 for bilateral talks in Pretoria. The visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations with emphasis on energy, security, critical minerals and the reaffirmation of Japan’s Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) investment commitments. The two Ministers are also expected to exchange views on key global political issues. South Africa and Japan maintain strong, long-standing diplomatic relations, particularly in trade and investment, science and technology, education and skills development. Formal ties were established on 13 January 1992 and elevated to a Strategic Cooperation Partnership in 2010.

Minister Lamola to host his Japanese counterpart for Bilateral Consultations The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, will host the Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr Toshimitsu Motegi, on 05 May 2026 for bilateral talks in Pretoria. The visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations with emphasis on energy, security, critical minerals and the reaffirmation of Japan’s Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) investment commitments. The two Ministers are also expected to exchange views on key global political issues. South Africa and Japan maintain strong, long-standing diplomatic relations, particularly in trade and investment, science and technology, education and skills development. Formal ties were established on 13 January 1992 and elevated to a Strategic Cooperation Partnership in 2010.

Minister Lamola to host his Japanese counterpart for Bilateral Consultations The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, will host the Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr Toshimitsu Motegi, on 05 May 2026 for bilateral talks in Pretoria. The visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations with emphasis on energy, security, critical minerals and the reaffirmation of Japan’s Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) investment commitments. The two Ministers are also expected to exchange views on key global political issues. South Africa and Japan maintain strong, long-standing diplomatic relations, particularly in trade and investment, science and technology, education and skills development. Formal ties were established on 13 January 1992 and elevated to a Strategic Cooperation Partnership in 2010.

Minister Lamola to host his Japanese counterpart for Bilateral Consultations The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, will host the Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr Toshimitsu Motegi, on 05 May 2026 for bilateral talks in Pretoria. The visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations with emphasis on energy, security, critical minerals and the reaffirmation of Japan’s Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) investment commitments. The two Ministers are also expected to exchange views on key global political issues. South Africa and Japan maintain strong, long-standing diplomatic relations, particularly in trade and investment, science and technology, education and skills development. Formal ties were established on 13 January 1992 and elevated to a Strategic Cooperation Partnership in 2010.

SOUTH AFRICA CELEBRATE FREEDOM MONTH - 32 YEAR OF DEMOCRACY by Ubuntu Radio

Chairperson of the African Union Commission, His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Chairperson Youssouf is in South Africa to oversee the election of the Bureau of the Pan-African Parliament, taking place on 30 April 2026 at its headquarters in Midrand. The meeting reflects ongoing collaboration on the work of the African Union, including South Africa’s role and contributions, as well as key issues impacting the continent and the global community. #AU #PanAfricanParliament #SouthAfrica #AfricaRising #InternationalRelations

Chairperson of the African Union Commission, His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, is in South Africa. Chairperson Youssouf is in South Africa to oversee the election of the Bureau of the Pan-African Parliament, taking place on 30 April 2026 at its headquarters in Midrand. The meeting reflects ongoing collaboration on the work of the African Union, including South Africa’s role and contributions, as well as key issues impacting the continent and the global community. #AU #PanAfricanParliament #SouthAfrica #AfricaRising #InternationalRelations

Ambassador Livieres Acampos is the Dean of South America's Diplomatic Corps, his response after the address by Minister Ronald Lamola to the Resident Heads of Mission from the America.

High Commissioner Christoff is the Dean of North America's Diplomatic Corps. His response after meeting with Minister Ronald Lamola in Pretoria with the Heads of Mission from the Americas

DIRCO Minister Hon Ronald Lamola engagement with Resident Heads of Mission from the Americas Region in Pretoria, Republic of South Africa. 28/04/2026

Ubuntu Radio interview with Minister Ronald Lamola at the conclusion of the Inter-Departmental Workshop with the SADC Secretariat on the implementation of RISDP in the context of South Africa's chairship held at DIRCO HQ, Pretoria. 24/04/2026

[AUDIO] Minister Ronald Lamola delivers closing remarks at the Inter-Departmental Workshop with the SADC Secretariat on the implementation of RISDP in the context of South Africa's chairship held at DIRCO HQ, Pretoria. 24/04/2026

Opening remarks by Secretary General of Foreign Affairs at the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, Dr Nikolaus Marschick during the he South Africa-Austria Bilateral Consultations.

Opening remarks by Deputy Minister of International Relations & Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes during the South Africa-Austria Bilateral Consultations today.

His Excellency Mr Ante Cicvaric, the Ambassadsor of Croatia to South Africa & Dean of European Heads of Missions remarks during their meeting with the Minister of International Relations & Coopertion held at DIRCO, HQ. 23/04/2026

Minister of International Relations & Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola devering a keynote address during a meeting with resident European Heads of Missions held at DIRCO, HQ. 23/04/2026

Deputy Minister of International Relations & Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes devering welcoming remarks during a meeting with resident European Heads of Missions held at DIRCO, HQ. 23/04/2026

The South African Consulate General in Lagos is this week hosting the 4th Edition of South Africa Week from 22–26 April 2026 to commemorate the 32nd Anniversary of South Africa’s Freedom and Democracy and to reaffirm the longstanding diplomatic relations between South Africa and Nigeria. South Africa Week serves as a strategic platform to advance economic diplomacy, strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation, promote sectoral engagement, including energy collaboration and enhance people-to-people relations through cultural exchange. The programme underscores South Africa’s commitment to African solidarity, unity, and inclusive socio-economic development. The theme this year: “SOUTH AFRICA-NIGERIA PARTNERSHIP: UNLOCKING INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES"

The South African Consulate General in Lagos is this week hosting the 4th Edition of South Africa Week from 22–26 April 2026 to commemorate the 32nd Anniversary of South Africa’s Freedom and Democracy and to reaffirm the longstanding diplomatic relations between South Africa and Nigeria. South Africa Week serves as a strategic platform to advance economic diplomacy, strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation, promote sectoral engagement, including energy collaboration and enhance people-to-people relations through cultural exchange. The programme underscores South Africa’s commitment to African solidarity, unity, and inclusive socio-economic development. The theme this year: “SOUTH AFRICA-NIGERIA PARTNERSHIP: UNLOCKING INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES"

Ambassador Sandra Kramer, EU Delegation remarks during the Inter-Departmental Workshop with the SADC Secretariat on the implementation of RISDP in the context of South Africa's chairship held at DIRCO HQ, Pretoria. 22/04/2026

Mr Livhuwani Tommy Makhode, Director-General, Department of Home Affairs delivering official opening remarks during the Inter-Departmental Workshop with the SADC Secretariat on the implementation of RISDP in the context of South Africa's chairship held at DIRCO HQ, Pretoria. 22/04/2026

Ambassador Tebogo Seokolo, Deputy Director-General: Africa, DIRCO delivering welcome remarks and strategic overview during the Inter-Departmental Workshop with the SADC Secretariat on the implementation of RISDP in the context of South Africa's chairship held at DIRCO HQ, Pretoria. 22/04/2026

Ubuntu Radio had a conversation with Deputy Minister Alvin Botes following the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum held in Antalya, Turkiye. The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, under the auspices of H.E. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, took place on 17-19 April 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye. In the face of geopolitical tensions, shifting balances of power, rising trade barriers and mounting pressure on multilateralism, the current global landscape is marked by increasing unpredictability. This year’s theme “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties” emphasizes the importance of anticipating and addressing emerging issues to be able to shape a better future. The theme underscores the need to stay ahead of future developments by identifying risks and opportunities, developing strategies and turning insights into action. As conflicts remain unresolved, polarization grows and strategic rivalries expand, numerous critical issues continue to affect people all over the world. In order to address these challenges and work towards a more inclusive, fair and effective international system, the consolidation of international cooperation, dialogue and solidarity is imperative. ADF2026 brought together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media and civil society representatives to explore how to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions as well as bilateral meetings, the participants discussed global trends and regional dynamics, exchanged views on possible solutions and share best practices. The Forum once again provided a valuable platform for fostering dialogue, restoring trust and engaging in stronger cooperation; mapping the path forward to a more peaceful, stable and resilient world for future generations.

Deputy Minister Alvin Botes participated in a panel discussion on Critical Minerals - Competition, Cooperation, Security.during the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum held in Antalya, Turkiye. The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, under the auspices of H.E. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, took place on 17-19 April 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye. In the face of geopolitical tensions, shifting balances of power, rising trade barriers and mounting pressure on multilateralism, the current global landscape is marked by increasing unpredictability. This year’s theme “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties” emphasizes the importance of anticipating and addressing emerging issues to be able to shape a better future. The theme underscores the need to stay ahead of future developments by identifying risks and opportunities, developing strategies and turning insights into action. As conflicts remain unresolved, polarization grows and strategic rivalries expand, numerous critical issues continue to affect people all over the world. In order to address these challenges and work towards a more inclusive, fair and effective international system, the consolidation of international cooperation, dialogue and solidarity is imperative. ADF2026 brought together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media and civil society representatives to explore how to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions as well as bilateral meetings, the participants discussed global trends and regional dynamics, exchanged views on possible solutions and share best practices. The Forum once again provided a valuable platform for fostering dialogue, restoring trust and engaging in stronger cooperation; mapping the path forward to a more peaceful, stable and resilient world for future generations.

Deputy Minister Alvin Botes participated in a round table discussion titled ""Contemplating Multilateralism Amid Sytematic Transition'' during the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum held in Antalya, Turkiye. The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, under the auspices of H.E. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, took place on 17-19 April 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye. In the face of geopolitical tensions, shifting balances of power, rising trade barriers and mounting pressure on multilateralism, the current global landscape is marked by increasing unpredictability. This year’s theme “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties” emphasizes the importance of anticipating and addressing emerging issues to be able to shape a better future. The theme underscores the need to stay ahead of future developments by identifying risks and opportunities, developing strategies and turning insights into action. As conflicts remain unresolved, polarization grows and strategic rivalries expand, numerous critical issues continue to affect people all over the world. In order to address these challenges and work towards a more inclusive, fair and effective international system, the consolidation of international cooperation, dialogue and solidarity is imperative. ADF2026 brought together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media and civil society representatives to explore how to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions as well as bilateral meetings, the participants discussed global trends and regional dynamics, exchanged views on possible solutions and share best practices. The Forum once again provided a valuable platform for fostering dialogue, restoring trust and engaging in stronger cooperation; mapping the path forward to a more peaceful, stable and resilient world for future generations.

Deputy Minister Alvin Botes concludes his working visit to the Republic of Serbia. 16/04/2026

The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, under the auspices of H.E. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, will take place on 17-19 April 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye. In the face of geopolitical tensions, shifting balances of power, rising trade barriers and mounting pressure on multilateralism, the current global landscape is marked by increasing unpredictability. This year’s theme “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties” emphasizes the importance of anticipating and addressing emerging issues to be able to shape a better future. The theme underscores the need to stay ahead of future developments by identifying risks and opportunities, developing strategies and turning insights into action. As conflicts remain unresolved, polarization grows and strategic rivalries expand, numerous critical issues continue to affect people all over the world. In order to address these challenges and work towards a more inclusive, fair and effective international system, the consolidation of international cooperation, dialogue and solidarity is imperative. ADF2026 will bring together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media and civil society representatives to explore how to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions as well as bilateral meetings, the participants will discuss global trends and regional dynamics, exchange views on possible solutions and share best practices. The Forum will once again provide a valuable platform for fostering dialogue, restoring trust and engaging in stronger cooperation; mapping the path forward to a more peaceful, stable and resilient world for future generations. South Africa will be represented by the Deputy Minister of International Relations & Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes. Ubuntu Radio spoke to Mr Mbulelo Tolo, South Africa's Chargé d'Affaires in Turkiye ahead of this event.

Interview with Dr Msengana-Ndlela, South Africa's Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic of Greece and also non-resident ambassador to the Republic of Serbia, ahead of the Visit to Serbia by H.E. Mr Alvin Botes, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation for South Africa – Serbia Political consultations, 14-16 April 2026.