VOW 88.1

The Sports Hub is a sports based show where we look to inform our listener with the latest happenings from the world of sports.

The VOW Drive is a lighthearted conversation-driven afternoon show that focuses on entertainment through learnings and the day-to-day navigation of life. Instagram · Twitter

The VOW Drive is a lighthearted conversation-driven afternoon show that focuses on entertainment through learnings and the day-to-day navigation of life. Instagram · Twitter

That Lunch Show is one of VOW 88.1's Award Winning shows. The show is about inspiring, informing and empowering listeners with hard-hitting topics. It tackles unemployment, current affairs, health, cultural, technology, and entertainment news. The aim is to keep the listeners informed and entertained. The show airs weekdays at 12:00-15:00. Instagram · Twitter

That Lunch Show is one of VOW 88.1's Award Winning shows. The show is about inspiring, informing and empowering listeners with hard-hitting topics. It tackles unemployment, current affairs, health, cultural, technology, and entertainment news. The aim is to keep the listeners informed and entertained. The show airs weekdays at 12:00-15:00. Instagram · Twitter

The Tshwane mayoral candidate will attend the NAMPO Harvest Day 2026 on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, to engage with key stakeholders in South Africa’s agricultural sector. The visit aims to strengthen dialogue with farmers, agri-business leaders, agricultural organisations, and exhibitors on the future of the country’s agricultural economy. 11:35 The delegation will be led by Tshwane Mayor Cilliers Brink and will include Noko Masipa, the Western Cape Chairperson for Agriculture, as well as Roy Jankielsohn, the Leader of the Official Opposition in the Free State. The engagement forms part of broader efforts to highlight the importance of agriculture in economic growth, food security, and job creation. It also provides a platform for leaders to interact directly with industry players on challenges and opportunities within the sector. Instagram · Twitter

The Inkatha Freedom Party is set to officially announce its mayoral candidate for the City of Johannesburg ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. The announcement will take place on Saturday, 16 May 2026, in Soweto. The party’s president, Velenkosini Hlabisa, is expected to unveil a candidate described as a proven leader with a strong record in governance and a commitment to prioritising the needs of Johannesburg residents. The IFP says the candidate reflects its broader vision of ethical, capable, and community-driven leadership. According to the party, the announcement forms part of its preparations for the upcoming elections and its wider campaign message calling on South Africans to actively participate in the democratic process by registering to vote and taking responsibility for improving their communities. The IFP has positioned itself as a party focused on restoring service delivery, rebuilding public trust in local government, and ensuring that residents are placed at the centre of decision-making. The official event will take place at Jabulani Technical School in Soweto at 10h00, and members of the media have been invited to attend and cover the announcement., Instagram · Twitter

South Africa is facing a deepening socio-economic crisis marked by rising unemployment, poverty, and economic hardship affecting millions of citizens. While political attention has often been drawn to high-profile issues such as the Phala Phala matter, impeachment discussions, and the Madlanga Commission, many South Africans continue to grapple with more urgent daily challenges, including joblessness, food insecurity, and financial instability. Recent labour market statistics for the first quarter of 2026 highlight the severity of the situation. The country recorded approximately 345,000 job losses between January and March 2026. This has pushed the number of unemployed South Africans to over 8.1 million, with the official unemployment rate increasing to 32.7%. The expanded unemployment rate has risen to 43.7%, while youth unemployment has reached a critical 45.8%. These figures reflect a worsening economic reality affecting individuals and households across the country. Graduates remain without employment opportunities, families struggle to meet basic needs, and small businesses continue to close. In many communities, these 09:35 conditions contribute to growing cycles of poverty, crime, substance abuse, and social instability. The Congress of the People argues that there is an increasing disconnect between political discourse and the lived experiences of ordinary South Africans. According to the party, national debates remain focused on political and constitutional issues, while the economic crisis continues to escalate. While COPE acknowledges the importance of constitutional accountability and ethical governance, it emphasizes that these issues must not overshadow urgent economic challenges. The party warns that continued inaction risks further deterioration of the economy and long-term damage to future generations. COPE calls for an urgent and coordinated national economic recovery programme focused on job creation, support for small businesses, infrastructure development, skills training, industrial expansion, and the growth of township and rural economies. The party further stresses the need for practical, results-driven interventions rather than ongoing political debate. COPE argues that South Africa’s most pressing national emergency is not only political instability but the escalating crisis of unemployment, which requires immediate and decisive government action. Instagram · Twitter

South Africa continues to face major challenges around youth unemployment, economic exclusion, unequal development, and limited access to infrastructure and financial services — particularly in rural and township communities. Against this backdrop, young entrepreneurs and community-driven businesses are increasingly positioning themselves as part of the solution by creating local economic opportunities, building support systems, and developing innovative business models aimed at community empowerment. TTE Administrators describes itself as a corporate services company focused on business administration, consulting, compliance, logistics, project coordination, and digital solutions designed to help businesses operate more efficiently and grow sustainably. Alongside this, Shafayetela Group focuses on rural development initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure access, financial inclusion, and essential service delivery in underserved communities. The organisations say their broader mission is to build systems that bring economic opportunity, business development, and financial access closer to communities often excluded from mainstream economic participation. The discussion around youth entrepreneurship has become increasingly important in South Africa, where unemployment among young people remains one of the country’s most urgent socio-economic challenges. At the same time, many young entrepreneurs argue that limited access to funding, mentorship, infrastructure, digital access, and institutional support continues to make business growth extremely difficult — especially outside major urban centres. The conversation also highlights broader questions around: ● the role of entrepreneurship in economic transformation, ● rural economic development, ● financial inclusion, ● youth leadership, ● and whether grassroots business initiatives can meaningfully contribute to reducing inequality and unemployment. There is also growing recognition that sustainable development in South Africa may require stronger partnerships between communities, entrepreneurs, government, and the private sector. Ultimately, the discussion is about whether young innovators and local business systems can help reshape economic opportunities in communities that have historically been left behind. Instagram · Twitter

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation is preparing to table its 2026/27 Budget Vote under the theme: “Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Industry and Society.” Led by Minister Blade Nzimande and Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina, the department says it intends to position science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of economic growth, industrial modernisation, education, climate resilience, healthcare innovation, and job creation. With a budget allocation of R10.4 billion, government says the Department remains committed to building a transformed and inclusive National System of Innovation while expanding South Africa’s competitiveness in emerging technologies and research sectors. The Budget Vote will provide updates on several strategic areas including: ● artificial intelligence, ● vaccine manufacturing, ● green hydrogen, ● clean energy, ● digital economy development, ● sovereign space capability, ● climate resilience, ● agricultural modernisation, ● mining innovation, ● manufacturing technology, ● and indigenous knowledge systems. The Department also says the Budget aligns with the Decadal Plan for Science, Technology and Innovation (2022–2032), which aims to place scientific innovation at the centre of national development planning and economic transformation. A major highlight of the event will be a guest lecture on Artificial Intelligence by South African computer scientist Vukosi Marivate, reflecting growing national and global interest in AI’s role in education, employment, governance, and economic competitiveness. Instagram · Twitter

A strongly worded opinion piece released by the Minority Governing Parties has intensified debate around the governance crisis unfolding within the City of Johannesburg, describing South Africa’s economic capital as a city on the brink of institutional collapse. The statement paints a picture of a municipality overwhelmed by political interference, factional battles, administrative instability, governance paralysis, weakening financial controls, and collapsing public trust. According to the Minority Governing Parties (MGP), Johannesburg’s decline is no longer simply a service delivery issue — it has become a leadership and governance crisis rooted in political dysfunction at the highest levels of municipal government. The opinion piece argues that coalition instability, executive interference, and factional politics have steadily undermined governance systems intended to protect accountability, professionalism, and administrative independence within the city. A major point of concern raised is the alleged sidelining of professional administrators and governance experts, whose warnings around financial sustainability, procurement risks, coalition management, and infrastructure collapse were allegedly ignored or politically overruled. Instagram · Twitter

The financial and governance crisis facing the City of Johannesburg has escalated into a major political battle, with the Democratic Alliance in Gauteng calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene and place the city under financial administration. According to Solly Msimanga, Leader of the Official Opposition in Gauteng, residents are experiencing worsening service delivery failures caused by financial mismanagement, maladministration, and governance collapse within the city. The DA argues that Johannesburg’s decline has become increasingly visible through deteriorating infrastructure, water outages, electricity disruptions, road failures, unmaintained public facilities, and mounting debt pressures. The party says it has repeatedly warned national government about the city’s worsening financial condition, even after President Ramaphosa himself acknowledged concerns around Johannesburg’s infrastructure and governance during previous interventions. Now, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has reportedly written to Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero raising concerns about alleged violations of the Municipal Finance Management Act and the city’s declining financial health. The DA believes the only viable solution is placing Johannesburg under financial administration, which would allow external administrators to assess municipal finances, redirect spending priorities, and stabilise service delivery systems. However, the issue is politically sensitive. Critics of administration processes often argue that they can become politicised, undermine democratic local governance, and fail to address deeper structural issues affecting municipalities across South Africa. Johannesburg’s struggles also reflect a broader national crisis facing many municipalities: ● declining revenue collection, ● infrastructure collapse, ● corruption allegations, ● coalition instability, ● and weak governance capacity. As South Africa’s economic hub, Johannesburg’s instability has implications far beyond local politics. The city plays a central role in investment, employment, infrastructure, and economic confidence nationally. The debate now raises urgent questions: ● Has Johannesburg become too dysfunctional to govern itself effectively? ● Would financial administration genuinely improve service delivery? ● Or is the crisis rooted in deeper political and structural failures that cannot be solved administratively alone? For residents, the issue is immediate and practical — whether government can still deliver basic services reliably in South Africa’s largest city. Instagram · Twitter

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially confirmed that he will not resign following the recent Constitutional Court ruling linked to the Section 89 impeachment process arising from the Phala Phala matter. In a nationally televised address delivered from the Union Buildings, Ramaphosa said he accepts and respects the Constitutional Court’s judgment, but argued that the ruling does not compel him to step down as President. The Constitutional Court found that aspects of the National Assembly’s Section 89 impeachment rules were unconstitutional, particularly regarding how Parliament handled the Independent Panel report into allegations connected to the Phala Phala farm controversy. The Court ordered that the report now be referred to Parliament’s Impeachment Committee for proper consideration. However, Ramaphosa stressed that the Court made no finding on whether he committed misconduct or violated the Constitution. Instead, he framed the judgment as a procedural and constitutional matter concerning parliamentary processes. The President also announced that he will proceed with a judicial review of the Independent Panel’s report itself, arguing that the report contains what he described as “grave flaws,” legal errors, and unsupported conclusions. Ramaphosa defended his decision not to resign by saying stepping down now would amount to pre-empting a constitutional process that has not yet concluded. He further argued that resignation would undermine ongoing efforts to rebuild institutions, fight corruption, and stabilize governance following the State Capture era. At the same time, opposition parties and some factions within the ANC continue to intensify pressure on the President, arguing that remaining in office while facing impeachment-related proceedings damages public trust and weakens political credibility. The speech now sets the stage for what could become one of the most politically significant constitutional battles in post-apartheid South Africa. This moment raises several major national questions: ● Is Ramaphosa defending constitutional due process, or simply fighting for political survival? ● Can the ANC maintain unity amid mounting internal and external pressure? ● And how will this affect public trust in democratic institutions, Parliament, and the Presidency itself? The issue also places renewed focus on the balance between constitutional accountability, political stability, and the rule of law in South Africa’s democracy. Instagram · Twitter

ATM’S Vuyo Zungula says the business sector advocates for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala scandal matter to be overlooked because he governs the country in a way that suits their interests. Twitter · Instagram

A recent large-scale study has found that every additional hour of daily screen time may increase the risk of developing short-sightedness (myopia) by up to 21%, raising concern about how modern study habits are shaping long-term eye health. Twitter · Instagram

The Sports Hub is a sports based show where we look to inform our listener with the latest happenings from the world of sports.

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is set to hold an investigative hearing into the handling of sexual harassment and rape cases involving learners in schools across the Eastern Cape, following growing concerns around learner safety, institutional accountability, and the protection of children within South Africa’s education system. The hearing comes amid increasing reports of sexual harassment, abuse, and gender-based violence in schools — incidents that continue to raise alarm about whether schools are adequately equipped to protect vulnerable learners and respond effectively when abuse occurs. According to the Commission, the investigation follows ongoing monitoring of complaints as well as concerns about systemic failures within school environments. The CGE says the hearing seeks to hold the Eastern Cape Department of Education accountable for shortcomings that may be placing learners at risk. The Head of the Eastern Cape Department of Education is expected to appear before the Commission as part of the inquiry process. The issue touches on a deeply sensitive national crisis. Across South Africa, schools are increasingly becoming spaces where children face not only educational challenges, but also threats to their safety, dignity, mental wellbeing, and bodily autonomy. Advocacy groups and child protection organisations have repeatedly raised concerns around: ● underreporting of sexual abuse in schools, ● fear of retaliation by learners, ● inadequate disciplinary systems, ● delayed investigations, ● and a lack of psychosocial support for victims. Instagram · Twitter

South Africa’s labour movement is preparing for a major confrontation over looming retrenchments that could affect thousands of retail workers, with the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union (SACCAWU) and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) warning against what they describe as attempts to erode long-standing worker protections under the guise of restructuring. According to SACCAWU, tensions escalated after reports emerged in the media regarding a Section 189 retrenchment process before the union itself had formally been engaged. The union argues this undermines collective bargaining structures and weakens fair labour engagement processes. At the centre of the dispute are concerns over possible changes to worker benefits and conditions of employment that unions say were secured through years of negotiation and labour struggle. These reportedly include transport arrangements for workers finishing late shifts, subsidised meals, Sunday premium pay, 13th cheques, and guaranteed working hours for full-time employees. Instagram · Twitter

Serious concerns around policing infrastructure, operational capacity, and crime control in Gauteng have once again come under scrutiny following an oversight visit by the Gauteng Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Community Safety to the Pretoria West Police Station. The Committee says it uncovered alarming conditions at the station, including severe infrastructure problems, outdated ICT systems, fragmented operations, and growing criminal activity within the precinct itself. One of the most concerning findings was that the station currently operates from three separate office buildings, creating major operational difficulties around coordination, communication, command structures, and emergency response. The Committee argues that this fragmented setup directly weakens the station’s ability to combat crime effectively in an area already experiencing high levels of criminal activity. The oversight visit also revealed that officers are working with outdated computers and unreliable network systems that delay case processing, disrupt access to policing databases, and slow down administrative and investigative work. At the same time, Pretoria West residents continue to face escalating concerns around hijackings, kidnappings, illegal scrapyards, and hijacked buildings allegedly being used as hubs for criminal activity. Perhaps most shocking is the Committee’s revelation that a building directly adjacent to the police station itself has reportedly been hijacked — raising difficult questions about police visibility, state authority, and whether law enforcement is losing control in certain urban spaces. The Committee has now formally called on Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni to urgently intervene and stabilise operations at the station. The issue speaks to a broader national concern around whether South Africa’s police stations are adequately resourced to deal with increasingly sophisticated and violent crime while officers themselves face infrastructure collapse, staffing shortages, technological failures, and declining public trust. Instagram · Twitter

Fresh political tensions are emerging within the African National Congress following the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the Phala Phala matter, with reports indicating growing internal pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa to resign ahead of critical political and electoral battles. The Constitutional Court recently ruled that Parliament acted unconstitutionally when it blocked the adoption of the Section 89 Independent Panel report in 2022 — a report that found there may have been a case for Parliament to investigate whether Ramaphosa violated the Constitution in relation to the Phala Phala farm scandal. The judgment effectively revives the impeachment process and requires Parliament to reconsider the Section 89 report through the proper constitutional mechanisms. According to reports, divisions are now surfacing within the ANC itself, with some factions reportedly arguing that Ramaphosa’s continued leadership could damage the party ahead of the upcoming local government elections, while others remain firmly behind him. Opposition parties including the Economic Freedom Fighters and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party have intensified calls for Ramaphosa to resign, arguing that a sitting President facing impeachment proceedings weakens public confidence in government and democratic institutions. At the same time, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has publicly reaffirmed the party’s support for Ramaphosa, highlighting growing tensions between competing political camps within the governing party. Instagram · Twitter

Sbu Malawyer, born Sibusiso Ntshangase, is a celebrated South African Kwaito artist known for his energetic performances and hits like “Amalawyer,” “Dlala Mapantsula,” and “Masimbela.” He emerged in the late 1990s and became a prominent figure in the Kwaito movement, playing a pivotal role in shaping the genre during South Africa's post-apartheid era.

VOW Top 30 chart show every Saturday 09:00am to 12:00pm. Twitter · Instagram · Facebook

Today we’re diving into a conversation that sits at the intersection of technology, sexuality, gender, and modern society. We’re joined by Kabelo Motswagae, a Sociology researcher whose Master’s dissertation explores the experiences of women on OnlyFans, particularly around intimacy, agency, stigma, and womanhood in the digital age. Rather than approaching the platform from a place of judgement, Kabelo’s work challenges us to think critically about how online spaces are reshaping human connection, economic survival, identity, and sexuality; especially in post-pandemic South Africa. This is a thoughtful and layered discussion about the realities behind the headlines. Twitter · Instagram · Facebook

The VOW Drive is a lighthearted conversation-driven afternoon show that focuses on entertainment through learnings and the day-to-day navigation of life. Instagram · Twitter

Area Code is a fun and interactive mid-morning show on VOW, which airs weekdays from 09:00-12:00. This show aims to ease listeners into their mornings by keeping them up-to-date with the latest news and trends, while also serving as a student’s “go-to” for campus-related events and information. Instagram · Twitter

Area Code is a fun and interactive mid-morning show on VOW, which airs weekdays from 09:00-12:00. This show aims to ease listeners into their mornings by keeping them up-to-date with the latest news and trends, while also serving as a student’s “go-to” for campus-related events and information. Instagram · Twitter

Area Code is a fun and interactive mid-morning show on VOW, which airs weekdays from 09:00-12:00. This show aims to ease listeners into their mornings by keeping them up-to-date with the latest news and trends, while also serving as a student’s “go-to” for campus-related events and information. Instagram · Twitter

Sr Phumzile Nhlapo Is a Qualified Professional Nurse with a Diploma in General Nursing, Community Nursing, Psychiatry, and Midwifery, obtained in 2006. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Assessment, Treatment, and Care (2011). She has a total of 19 years of nursing experience. For the past 10 years, Sr Nhlapho has worked extensively within adolescent and youth health programmes, focusing on a key population that requires specialised, empathetic, and developmentally appropriate care. X · Instagram

Tebogo Motukisi Is a dedicated Counsellor, Life Coach, and NLP Practitioner committed to empowering women and children to overcome life’s challenges and unlock their full potential. She currently serves as a Umatter Project Manager, where she supports parents of burn survivors in building resilience, strengthening self-esteem, navigating life transitions, and developing healthy emotional coping skills. Her work is deeply rooted in resilience, a quality she not only teaches but embodies. In 2019, Tebogo made history as the first woman from Soweto to summit Mount Kilimanjaro in support of a fundraising initiative for child burn survivors in South Africa. This achievement reflects her determination, courage, and mental strength. X · Instagram

The VOW Drive is a lighthearted conversation-driven afternoon show that focuses on entertainment through learnings and the day-to-day navigation of life. Instagram · Twitter

That Lunch Show is one of VOW 88.1's Award Winning shows. The show is about inspiring, informing and empowering listeners with hard-hitting topics. It tackles unemployment, current affairs, health, cultural, technology, and entertainment news. The aim is to keep the listeners informed and entertained. The show airs weekdays at 12:00-15:00. Instagram · Twitter

Most people run one Comrades. Donovan is taking on a Double Comrades. But this isn't just about pushing physical limits—it's about mental health. He's inviting you to join a Double Parkrun on Saturday, 9 May 2026, at Wits West Campus. The second lap is called the "Get Back Up Lap"—a reminder that you can do hard things. We're talking about resilience, mental health, and why showing up matters. Instagram · Twitter

Today we explore wether Parliament is genuinely capable of holding ministers accountable, or wether oversight committies have become politically compromised spaces where party loyalty outweighs public accountability. Instagram · Twitter

The iconic 702 Jozi My Jozi Walk The Talk returns on 26 July 2026 but this year's edition comes with a renewed focus on reclaiming and reimagining Johannesburgs inner city Hosted by 702 Instagram · Twitter

Thuli is a Johannesburg based atress Twitter · Instagram

VOW Breakfast airs from Monday to Friday. The show covers a variety of issues from youth development, unemployment, entertainment news, trending topics, and music. It sets the tone for the day with a news update. If you are looking for a recap of what happened during the weekday and what will take place in the new week, then this show is for you. Twitter · Instagram

Just Honey is both a producer and a partner. We produce our own honey from our own hives, and we also work closely with a network of small-scale outgrower farmers, many of whom struggled to find a market before they found us. We handle everything from purity testing and production to jarring, branding, and direct sales. Our model is built on relationships, not just supply , we train, we support, and we walk with our farmers year- round, even through the off-season. Soon, we’ll be launching online to bring that same honest, traceable honey to more homes. Twitter · Instagram

Tonight, we’re not just having a conversation we’re confronting a reality. Braamfontein a cultural hub, a student centre, a place of creativity and movement. But at the same time a place many are beginning to question. Is it safe? Is it clean? Is it managed? And more importantly ,who is responsible? Tonight on Breaking Ground, we bring together 2 of the key stakeholders the Braamfontein Improvement District and student leadership to discuss ask together and unpack

Tonight, we’re not just having a conversation we’re confronting a reality. Braamfontein a cultural hub, a student centre, a place of creativity and movement. But at the same time a place many are beginning to question. Is it safe? Is it clean? Is it managed? And more importantly ,who is responsible? Tonight on Breaking Ground, we bring together 2 of the key stakeholders the Braamfontein Improvement District and student leadership to discuss ask together and unpack

Tonight, we’re not just having a conversation we’re confronting a reality. Braamfontein a cultural hub, a student centre, a place of creativity and movement. But at the same time a place many are beginning to question. Is it safe? Is it clean? Is it managed? And more importantly ,who is responsible? Tonight on Breaking Ground, we bring together 2 of the key stakeholders the Braamfontein Improvement District and student leadership to discuss ask together and unpack

The VOW Drive is a lighthearted conversation-driven afternoon show that focuses on entertainment through learnings and the day-to-day navigation of life. Instagram · Twitter

That Lunch Show is one of VOW 88.1's Award Winning shows. The show is about inspiring, informing and empowering listeners with hard-hitting topics. It tackles unemployment, current affairs, health, cultural, technology, and entertainment news. The aim is to keep the listeners informed and entertained. The show airs weekdays at 12:00-15:00. Instagram · Twitter

South Africa will on Friday, 08 May 2026 officially launch the Strategy for South Africa’s Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategic and Implementation Framework 2026–2030, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat. 10:35 The launch comes against the backdrop of a significant disease burden, with global estimates indicating that a woman dies from cervical cancer approximately every two minutes. In South Africa, cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. In 2022 alone, approximately 11 000 women were diagnosed with the disease, while around 6 000 died as a result. The new national strategy aligns with the Global Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer and sets out ambitious targets aimed at strengthening prevention, early detection, and treatment. These include ensuring that 90% of girls are fully vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus by the age of 15, screening 70% of women using high- performance tests by the ages of 35 and 45, and ensuring that 90% of women with pre-cancer receive treatment, while 90% of those with invasive cancer receive appropriate management. The official launch will be led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, joined by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, and other cabinet ministers. The event will also be attended by international and local stakeholders, including representatives from development partners such as the Director- General of the World Health Organization, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as well as leaders from labour unions, civil society, and the private sector. The launch will take place at the Moletsane Sports Complex in Soweto, Johannesburg, and is scheduled to commence at 10h00 on Friday, 08 May 2026. The programme underscores government’s commitment to strengthening public health systems and advancing women’s health through prevention, early intervention, and improved access to treatment. Instagram · Twitter

The Department of Human Settlements will commence with public information sessions on the draft Prevention of Illegal Eviction and Unlawful Occupation of Land Amendment Bill on Wednesday, 06 May 2026. The first Gauteng session will be held in the City of Tshwane, followed by sessions in the Cities of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni scheduled for 21 and 22 May 2026 respectively. This follows the recent release of the PIE Amendment Bill for public comment by Minister Simelane. The proposed amendments seek to revise the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act of 1998, a key piece of legislation originally enacted to prevent arbitrary evictions and to address historical injustices linked to 09:35 forced removals without due legal process. The Bill aims to strengthen the legal and policy framework relating to land invasions and informal settlements, while also addressing the provision of adequate housing to reduce unlawful occupation of private property. It further focuses on improving court processes, the enforcement of eviction orders, and the protection of vulnerable groups affected by eviction-related matters. The public participation process is intended to ensure broader stakeholder engagement on these proposed changes, particularly given their potential impact on housing rights, land management, and urban development across South Africa. Instagram · Twitter

The South African Spaza Shop Association has raised urgent concerns regarding the increasing levels of violence targeting spaza shops and informal traders across the country. These incidents not only threaten individual livelihoods but also undermine the economic stability of township and rural communities, where informal trade plays a critical role. SASSA has strongly criticised the actions of the City of Tshwane, particularly the demolition of informal trading structures in various townships. The situation in Mabopane has been highlighted as especially concerning, with long-standing businesses some operating for decades being destroyed. SASSA argues that such actions disregard the historical and economic importance of informal enterprises and calls for an immediate halt to demolitions, as well as a consultative process between authorities and trader representatives. The association has also called for accountability at Sunnyside Police Station, citing serious allegations of misconduct and possible collusion with criminal elements. SASSA is demanding an independent audit, a full investigation into the claims, and the suspension of implicated officials pending the outcome. Recognising tensions within the informal trading sector, particularly between local and foreign-owned businesses, SASSA is advocating for a structured national regulatory framework. This framework would aim 09:15 to protect local entrepreneurs, ensure fair competition, uphold health and safety standards, prevent criminal activity within supply chains, and promote social cohesion. SASSA has raised concerns about the broader economic environment affecting small businesses. The association has pointed to delays in payments by government institutions, including municipalities and the University of South Africa (UNISA), which have negatively impacted small-scale entrepreneurs. These delays are said to hinder business sustainability, limit growth, and discourage youth participation in entrepreneurship. SASSA maintains that it is committed to engaging with government, law enforcement, and the private sector to address these challenges. The organisation continues to advocate for practical, inclusive, and sustainable solutions that support informal traders and strengthen local economies. Instagram · Twitter

Hlengiwe Mtshali is a Red List Scientist at the South African National Biodiversity Institute, where she works within the Threatened Species Programme. Her work focuses on assessing the risk of extinction for South Africa’s plant species using internationally recognised IUCN Red List standards, helping guide national conservation priorities and biodiversity policy. Hlengiwe has built an extensive career in biodiversity science, having held several roles at SANBI, including Conservation Officer and Coordinator for the Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers programme. Through this work, she has contributed directly to the monitoring and protection of some of South Africa’s most vulnerable plant species. She holds a Master’s degree in Botany from the University of the Free State, along with an Honours and undergraduate degree in Plant Sciences, and has a strong research background in vegetation ecology, particularly wetland ecosystems. Her contributions to scientific research and national biodiversity assessments play a key role in shaping how South Africa understands and responds to biodiversity loss.

South Africans are facing yet another economic strain following sharp increases in fuel prices, with petrol rising by over R3 per litre, diesel by R6, paraffin by R4, and gas by R5. These hikes come on top of April’s increases, compounding financial pressure on households and businesses already grappling with slow economic growth. The Congress of South African Trade Unions has raised alarm over the ripple effects these increases will have on workers, commuters, and the broader economy. With South Africa’s growth hovering at around 1%, the country remains vulnerable to global shocks—particularly those linked to oil supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions. Fuel costs are a critical driver of inflation. In South Africa, they directly affect transport costs, food prices, and overall cost of living. For many workers, transport alone consumes up to 40% of their wages, with some supporting extended households of up to seven people. Government has attempted to intervene by extending fuel levy relief—R3 per litre for petrol and R3.93 for diesel—for May and June. However, this relief is temporary, with plans to reduce it in June and phase it out entirely by July. COSATU warns that this approach may not be sustainable if global oil prices remain high. The federation is particularly concerned about the lack of relief for paraffin users—many of whom are low-income households relying on it for cooking and heating. The union has proposed a range of interventions, including: • Extending fuel levy relief for longer • Making public transport more affordable • Adjusting social grants, including the SRD grant, in line with inflation • Providing food parcels to vulnerable households • Stabilising electricity costs through engagement with Eskom • Avoiding further interest rate hikes by the South African Reserve Bank COSATU also calls on the private sector to play a role—through halting retrenchments and offering financial relief such as loan repayment holidays. Instagram · Twitter

Serious allegations of corruption and political shielding have emerged in the City of Tshwane, following criticism from Democratic Alliance (DA) over the sanction imposed on Eugene Modise, the city’s Deputy Mayor and MMC for Finance. According to DA Tshwane finance spokesperson Jacqui Uys, Modise was found guilty of financially benefiting from a municipal security contract linked to a private company, Triotic Protection Services. Public office bearers are strictly prohibited from benefitting from contracts within the municipalities they serve, making this a serious breach of governance and ethical standards. Despite the findings, the sanction imposed was a fine equivalent to two months’ salary—reportedly under R200,000. The DA has labelled this a “slap-on-the-wrist,” arguing it fails to reflect the gravity of the misconduct, especially given claims that Modise continues to benefit financially—allegedly earning up to R3 million per month from the same contract. The matter is further complicated by political dynamics within the City. Nasiphi Moya, the current mayor representing ActionSA, has been accused of delaying action despite allegedly having access to the report detailing Modise’s wrongdoing. Additionally, the contract in question has reportedly come under scrutiny at the Madlanga Commission, which is investigating broader corruption networks in Tshwane, including tenders related to security services, water tankers, and waste management. The DA has since opened a criminal case and plans to escalate the matter to the Hawks, arguing that the current response entrenches a culture of impunity and undermines public trust in governance. Instagram · Twitter

Gauteng’s public healthcare system is once again under scrutiny following a strongly worded statement by Emma More of ActionSA, who has raised alarm over delays in approving a modernised staff structure for the Gauteng Department of Health. At the core of the issue is a structural mismatch: Gauteng’s current healthcare staffing model is still based on a 2006 framework designed to serve approximately 9.5 million people. Fast forward to 2026, the province now serves over 16 million residents, placing immense strain on already overburdened hospitals and clinics. Healthcare workers across the province have repeatedly flagged burnout, long working hours, and unsafe staff-to-patient ratios. Patients, in turn, face long waiting times, overcrowded facilities, and in some cases, compromised quality of care. Despite these realities, the provincial government maintains that recruitment is ongoing through “funded vacancies.” However, critics argue that this approach is fundamentally flawed—filling positions within an outdated structure does not address the actual scale of demand or modern healthcare delivery needs. The delay in approving a new staff establishment has been attributed to bureaucratic processes, including consultations and “quality assurance” checks. The Premier has indicated that the revised structure will be submitted to the Department of Public Service and Administration by May 2026. ActionSA has rejected this timeline as inadequate, arguing that lives are at risk while administrative processes drag on. The party has committed to escalating the matter through legislative oversight, demanding transparency on hiring, and pushing for accountability from both the Premier’s office and the Health MEC. Instagram · Twitter

Tensions between migration, economic pressure, and safety have resurfaced sharply in South Africa, following Nigeria’s decision to evacuate at least 130 of its citizens from the country. According to reports, the evacuation is part of a voluntary repatriation programme initiated by the Nigerian government amid growing fears of xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa, particularly in Johannesburg and Pretoria. These protests have been driven largely by frustration over unemployment, crime, and service delivery challenges, with some groups blaming undocumented migrants for worsening socio-economic conditions. However, migrant rights organisations argue that foreign nationals are often scapegoated for deeper structural issues within the economy. Nigeria’s Foreign Minister confirmed that at least 130 citizens have already signed up for evacuation flights, with the number expected to increase. The move follows not only recent protests but also growing diplomatic concern, including the summoning of South Africa’s representative in Abuja and calls for investigations into incidents involving Nigerian nationals. This is not the first time xenophobic tensions have strained relations between South Africa and other African countries. Historically, outbreaks of violence against foreign nationals—particularly from other African states—have raised questions about regional solidarity, economic inequality, and governance failures. Instagram · Twitter