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Calls intensify for tougher enforcement of existing laws to curb violence against children.
This week Section 27 released a new report titled "Protecting the Future Today: The Need for an Efficient National Child Protection Register to Curb Violence Against Children". The report reveals serious shortcomings in the implementation of the National Child Protection Register and that more than 15 years after its adoption, the NCPR is severely underutilised. In March 2025, only 49 000 educators, that is 12% of all educators, had been vetted against the NCPR. Section 27 says this undermines the ability to protect children from violence, particularly in schools. This brings a sharp focus on the long standing debate over the unsealing of the Sex Offenders Register. Some experts have argued that the rights of children and the vulnerable must supercede the privacy rights of convicted predators , while legal scholars also warn that publicising the registry violates constitutional privacy protections. Meanwhile, a draft amendment bill is being developed to make the NRSO accessible to citizens... To unpack this Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Tendai Mafuma, Senior Legal Researcher at SECTION 27 and Dr. Suhayfa Bhamjee, Senior Lecturer in Criminal law at The University of KwaZulu Natal ..
Rescue operations expected to resume at Coerney River in Addo, in the Eastern Cape.
Search operations are expected to resume this morning at the Coerney River in Addo in the Eastern Cape after two bodies were recovered yesterday and one person remains missing. Authorities say the search may extend into tomorrow if the missing person is not found today. Police say five people were travelling in a Toyota Hilux bakkie when it was swept off while attempting to cross the river. Three occupants were carried away by the current, while two men on the back of the vehicle managed to jump to safety.
Security analyst says SAPS under immense pressure
Gauteng police have instituted disciplinary action against a police officer seen in a viral video allegedly returning money linked to a bribery incident, with authorities confirming the officer has been identified and placed under investigation as a departmental probe continues to establish the full circumstances. Meanwhile, SAPS management has this week dismissed suspended head of organised crime Richard Shibiri following a disciplinary process that found him guilty of misconduct. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Andy Mashaile , security analyst and former SA interpol Crime Ambassador
Authorities warn that resistance to Ebola burial protocols in parts of the DRC is slowing containment efforts.
Angry residents of the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are angry over being denied access to the body of their loved ones during burials. They have attacked a tam of healthcare workers in the town of Kotana in the South Kivu province as they attempted to carry out a safe burial of an Ebola victim. Many communities in the DRC observe traditional funeral rites that involve touching the deceased during burial. But health workers have prohibited the practice because the bodies of Ebola victims are highly infectious. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC's correspondent in the DRC, Chris Ocamringa
Health minister urges continued use of HIV preventative measures.
Ramaphosa launched the rollout of Lenacapavir in Mpumalanga yesterday. Lenacapavir is a new injectable prevention drug for HIV. Speaking at the launch Ramaphosa said the launch of Lenacapavir marks a turning point in South Africa's fight against HIV. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi.
Coordinated planning and maintenance can reduce extreme weather impact - EC Cogta Department
Over 2500 residents have been displaced following the heavy rains in the Nelson Mandela Bay region in the Eastern Cape this week. The municipality says at least 21 wards have been affected, with 141 incidents recorded since the South African Weather Service issued an Orange Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall. While no fatalities or injuries have been reported, dozens of homes have been flooded and roads remain closed. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs spokesperson Pheelo Oliphant
Constitutional democracy progresses, but more still needs to be done —Professor Reggie Nel
Widely regarded as one of the most progressive in the world, the Constitution of South Africa stands as the cornerstone of the country's democracy. Forged in the spirit of 1994, it drew on the collective wisdom of elected representatives determined to break decisively from apartheid—a system that oppressed the black majority. Its mission was clear: to enshrine and protect the rights of all who live in the country. This year marks 30 years since its adoption. However, questions continue to be raised of the effectiveness of the constitution for the many lived realities of the country's communities. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Professor Reggie Nel, Dean of the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University
Consumers urged to verify all property-related information amid rising rental and property scams.
Property is one of the most significant financial investments most South Africans will ever make, yet it is increasingly becoming a target for criminal activity. This is according to Grant Smee, Chief Executive Officer of Only Realty Property Group. He says rising market activity, combined with advanced deception methods, is driving an uptick in property scams. Today we look at the common types of property fraud that are currently affecting the market. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Grant Smee, Chief Executive Officer of Only Realty Property Group
Three security guards accused of attacking an e-hailing driver arrested
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport and Human Settlements has welcomed the swift arrest of three armed security guards accused of attacking an e-hailing driver and several women in KwaNdengezi. The arrests followed intervention by MEC Siboniso Duma, who has praised the coordinated response by law enforcement, including SAPS teams led by Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, as well as Operation Shanela, the Road Traffic Inspectorate, and Durban Metro Police. The incident has once again raised concerns around safety in the e-hailing sector and the conduct of private security personnel. We spoke to Ndabezinhle Sibiya, KZN Transport and Human Settlements Spokesperson.
President Cyril Ramaphosa to launch a new twice-a-year HIV prevention injection in Mpumalanga.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will today launch a new twice-a-year HIV prevention injection in Mpumalanga. The shot offers six months of protection per dose and will be rolled out nationally. Health officials say it could transform prevention efforts in high-risk areas. The rollout starts today at an event in Mpumalanga. Authorities hope the injectable will reduce new infections nationwide. We spoke to Sibongile Tshabalala, Chairperson of the Treatment Action Campaign
The Southern Africa Litigation Centre files application to suspend permits for arms exports to the United States
The Southern Africa Litigation Centre has filed an application in the North Gauteng High Court to suspend permits for arms exports to the United States. The non-governmental organisation argues the National Conventional Arms Control Committee should have cancelled the permits due to international law concerns. This is the first South African case seeking to stop arms sales to a permanent UN Security Council member. The Chairperson of the National Conventional Arms Control Committee, Minister of Defence and President Cyril Ramaphosa are listed as respondents. We spoke to Dr. Atilla Kisla, International Justice Cluster Lead at the Southern Africa Litigation Centre.
SANTACO apologizes after viral videos shows taxi patrollers confronting commuters in Hebron, Britz.
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the North West Province has apologized after viral videos showed taxi patrollers confronting commuters in Hebron, Britz. The council says the conduct was unacceptable and does not reflect its values. The dispute centres on buses allegedly operating outside agreed peak-hour times on taxi routes. SANTACO and the North West Transport Department have agreed to enforce existing arrangements and restore stability. The organisation condemned any violence or intimidation and urged commuters to remain calm. We spoke to SANTACO North West Provincial Secretary, Shakes Mayekani
A look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana
A look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back
President Ramaphosa Hosts Kenyan President Ruto
President Cyril Ramaphosa is hosting his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto on a state visit at the Union Buildings. The meeting is looking at strengthening the relations between the two countries who have long-standing ties. This meeting comes at a time when the developments in the Middle East have a serious impact on the continent. President Ramaphosa says the meeting comes at a time when the Sudan conflict continues to rage. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Former Ambassador and International Relations Expert Dr Kingsley Makhubela
Esikhawini family awaits autopsy results after toddler's death.
The family of a toddler in Esikhawini, north of Richards Bay, is awaiting autopsy results after the child reportedly died and another remains in a critical condition following allegations of consuming chips bought from a local tuckshop. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC reporter Nonhlakanipho Magwaza
Zikalala Blames NFP Challenges on Internal Divisions.
The Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature has confirmed that former NFP provincial leader Mbali Shinga is no longer a member of the legislature following her expulsion from her party. Speaking during today's sitting, Speaker Nontembeko Boyce announced receiving a notice from the NFP on the its decision to remove Shinga from the legislature. The party has also submitted a revised candidate list that places NFP President Ivan Barnes as Shinga's replacement. Shinga has approached the court to challenge her removal from the legislature. Boyce says according to the Constitution, the expulsion rendered the NFP's sole seat in the legislature vacant. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Political analyst Thobani Zikalala
Cut-off low brings heavy rain and storms in parts of the country—SAWS
Several parts of the Western Cape are for the second week experiencing heavy rains, accompanied by extremely cold weather conditions. And this has led to mass evacuations, flooded roads and multiple major route closures, with municipal authorities warning motorists and the residents to exercise extreme caution. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to the South African Weather Service forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela
The United Africans Transformation rejects Ramaphosa’s Budget Vote 1
The United Africans Transformation has taken a firm stance against Budget Vote 1 of The Presidency of South Africa, citing what it calls a failure of leadership, accountability, and constitutional responsibility. Central to its rejection is the unresolved Phala Phala scandal, which the party says continues to cast doubt over the integrity of the highest office. For more we are now joined on the line by United Africans Transformation President, Dr. Bantu Wonder Mahlatsi.
Tax Ombud is urging South Africans to prepare early for tax season
Tax season is approaching and the Office of the Tax Ombud is urging South Africans to prepare early. The Ombud says delays, penalties and stress often come from late filing or not knowing your rights with Sars. They advise taxpayers to be accurate and proactive and note independent help is available if disputes come up. We spoke to Russel Mamabolo, Specialist Communications and Outreach at the Office of the Tax Ombuds.
Gauteng High Court dismisses the Information Regulator's appeal against publishing Matric results
The Gauteng High Court has dismissed the Information Regulator's appeal against publishing matric results. Yesterday the court refused leave to appeal to the Supreme Court, upholding a December order that allows results in newspapers and online. The Regulator had argued publication breached POPIA, but courts ruled the Department of Basic Education can continue the practice. Matric results will remain publicly accessible this year. For analysis on the matter,we spoke to UKZN Professor of Law, Donrich Thaldar
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