AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: UNEQUALLY YOKED

We discuss dating standards and target markets. Is everybody going to date a millionaire? Are you shallow for refusing to date outside your league?

ZWELINZIMA VAVI ( GENERAL SECERETARY OF SAFTU )

Zwelinzima Vavi, general secretary of the SA Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu), has vowed to hold the government accountable if pathological tests confirm that starvation caused the deaths of illegal miners in the Stilfontein mine.

MANDLA – MINER WHO RESURFACED FROM UNDERGROUND A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO

Illegal miners who have surfaced from the depths of the Buffelsfontein mine in Stilfontein in the North West say that conditions have become so desperate that those still underground have resorted to consuming human flesh.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: ANGELIQUE SILVERLEAF (What can one expect in 2025)

ANGELIQUE SILVERLEAF based in Durban (very reputable) She has done this for 51 years. Renowned 6th generation psychic medium and clairvoyant, offering a wide range of spiritual services. With a deep commitment to her practice, she connects individuals to guidance and insight from the Heavens.

SIVIWE GWARUBE / MINISTER OF BASIC EDUCATION

Today thousands of learns began their 2025 schooling year, we have the Siviwe Gwarube / Minister of Basic Education to discuss  Beginning of school  School Infrastructure Development  Bella Act: Ramaphosa signs Bela Act without amendments after a three-month consultation period  SADTU welcomes President Ramaphosa’s announcement on the full implementation of the Bela Act.

RDP TITLE DEED

Do you have your RDP Title deed? When was it issued? Today we re-visit a topic that we did last year were we spoke to MAMA SIBONGILE GUMEDE who is still awaiting her title deed. We called in MEC TASNEEM MOTARA/ GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS to bring clarity on the matter and others who are still on the waiting list.

GAUTENG EDUCATION MEC, MATOME CHILOANE

Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane says the Gauteng Department of Education expects 40 000 unique applications as it embarks on phase 2 of registrations later this year. He says the late applications will from schools that still have spaces. School curriculum to be minimised as parents scramble for placement- Lesufi This is to ensure that those pupils who have not been placed are not left behind. Pupils across Gauteng kick started their school year on 15 January, and it's an especially nervous day for families of those in grade 1 and grade 8.

AYANDA TETYANA/PARENT COACH AND COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

Dealing with Matric disappointment Psychological Impact of Failing and How to overcome it. Matriculants often commit suicide during this time The conversation around mental health grows increasingly urgent when dealing with Matric disappointment. More than 700 000 matriculants, who wrote their final exams just over a month ago, are currently grappling with the stress and anxiety that accompany results day.

MMUSI MAIMANE, PROF MARY METCALFE/ PROFESSOR OF PRACTICE AT UJ

Build One South Africa (BOSA) is not surprised by the rank hypocrisy demonstrated by the Democratic Alliance (DA) in response to the release of the 2024 matric results last night. The DA knows full well that the pass rate of 87.3% announced last night by the Minister of Basic Education – the DA’s Siviwe Gwarube – is deceptive statistical gymnastics. Focus points: We look at the quality of education received by matriculants, dropout rate, failure rate as well.

MR BIKI LEPOTA/ UMALUSI SPOKESPERSON

Schools manipulating pass rates must be held accountable, says Umalusi CEO Umalusi CEO Mafu Rakometsi has highlighted several challenges encountered during the 2024 examination cycle, including unregistered candidates and unlawful practices by some schools. Rakometsi was delivering the eagerly awaited pronouncement on the 2024 national examination results during a media briefing held on 13 January, in Pretoria.

LEGAL TALK: NTHABISENG DUBAZANA ( DUBAZANA ATTORNEYS ) AND ADVOCATE ITUMELENG MASAKO

Getting your co-parent involved in funding your child’s education can be challenging, but there are several steps you can follow to ensure both parents share the responsibility of funding your child’s education. Whether through an agreement, mediation, or court order, the key is to focus on what is best for the child while protecting your legal rights.

GWEDE MANTASHE – ANC CHAIRPERSON

Delivering the annual January 8th Statement at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha on Saturday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the ANC “faces an existential crisis” wherein it must finally renew itself in order to survive. Ramaphosa delivered the party’s first January 8th Statement since its historic defeat in the May 2024 elections, and the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU), with a particular decisiveness and intensity. South Africa’s political landscape was irrevocably changed in the 2024 elections, and Ramaphosa made it clear the ANC will need to finally renew itself and revamp its leadership, or face the danger of perishing.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: THABISO SEEMA – SPEAKER & ACTIVIST

Thabiso Seema - a local taxi driver and activist from The Orchards, in the north of Pretoria, has been making an impact in fighting the stigma and discrimination against HIV in his community. Thabiso initially struggled after finding out his HIV positive status. However, he has now turned around and uses his experiences to educate others and fight the stigma around the virus. Thabiso Tik Toks have garned the attention of millions on the platform and seem to be a staple for his more than 335k followers.

DHAYA SEWDUTH – PRESIDENT LIFESAVING SOUTH AFRICA

Life Saving South Africa has made a call for swimming education to be prioritised as drowning rates spike in South Africa. The organisation says in the latter half of November 2024, there was a spate of 21 drownings reported which they had not seen in previous years. The number of fatal drownings coincided with the emergence of hot weather as well as the close of examinations, schools and universities. During December 2024 to the first week of January 2025 the number of drownings doubled to 42 which consisted of 34 cases of fatal drownings and 8 non- fatal.

PROF. NTSIKELELO BENJAMIN BREAKFAST – POLITICAL ANALYST

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has confirmed the resignation of Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi as its Member of Parliament. In a statement, the EFF announced the voluntary resignations of fighter Yazini Tetyana and fighter Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi from the Parliament Of South Africa. “The EFF has accepted the respective voluntary requests to be released from deployment of the two Fighters, who have diligently served the organisation in their respective deployments since the EFF has had representation in the legislative sphere,” the party said.

ILLEGAL MINERS ( COMMUNITY LEADER – JOHANNES QANKASE )

Illegal miners who have surfaced from the depths of the Buffelsfontein mine in Stilfontein in the North West say that conditions have become so desperate that those still underground have resorted to consuming human flesh. The accounts are contained in court papers submitted to the Constitutional Court in which the miners allege that conditions have become extremely desperate underground since the start of police operation Vala Umgodi.  The miners have been in an apparent stand-off with police since late last year.

Is Democracy Working?

Democracy - is a system of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or through freely elected leaders. A recent Afrobarometer study reveals that across 39 African countries, feelings of disrespect while accessing public services correlate with decreased support for democracy. Meanwhile another study by Afrobarometer released in 2023 found that the majority of South Africans are dissatisfied with the way democracy works in their country.

Is Bankruptcy On The Cards For The Gauteng Government?

According to Finance MEC Lebogang Maile. The Gauteng government is navigating financial challenges without heading towards bankruptcy. Dispelling rumours of impending financial collapse, Maile reassured the public that although the provinces finances were under pressure, significant budgetary measures and disciplined spending ensured its stability.

The Outbreak of The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

We struggled to connect with our experts on this one last night, so we’ll continue the conversation tonight – talking about the outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) which has spread across four countries. The human metapneumovirus aka HMPV is a virus that leads to a mild upper respiratory tract infection - practically indistinguishable from flu - for most people.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: DATING YOUNGER MEN AND MEN DATING YOUNGER GIRLS

During 2024, South Africa recorded over 70,000 teenage pregnancies across the country. Statistics reveal that approximately 365 adolescents give birth daily, including about 10 girls under the age of 15. These reports have put the teenage pregnancy crisis back in the spotlight. In a. recent story that made headlines, a 28-year-old man has been arrested and charged with statutory rape in connection with the pregnancy of a 13-year-old in Seshego. Another case recently brought to light involves a young girl whose father was arrested for statutory rape after police intervention.

DR BONGANI ELIAS SITHOLE - HEAD OF THE NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT CENTRE

A Level 8 weather warning has been issued KZN residents who have been urged urged to prepare for heavy rain. With a number of accidents already recorded across the country due to adverse weather conditions, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued further warnings. The country has been battered by severe thunderstorms since Sunday. According to SAWS, the inclement weather forecast is set to continue on Tuesday, warning of disruptive rainfall, hail and strong winds for various areas across the country.

ANDRE BOTHMA – TAX GURU & AUTHOR

South Africa loses R3 billion in tax revenue as wealthy citizens relocate, which has created a significant gap in government revenue, this is according to reports from the latest annual tax statistics for 2024. The loss of R3 billion in collectable taxes is due to 38,000 taxpayers who ended their tax residency in South Africa between 2017 and 2023.

LEGAL TALK - CODE OF CONDUCTS IN A WORKPLACE

For those making their debut in the workplace, it can quickly become a tough new experience to navigate, and keeping to the appropriate workplace etiquette, can protect one from trouble, socially and legally in the working environment. Often new entrants to jobs are just not guided properly about the appropriate workplace behaviour, and that’s what we’ll be focusing on tonight. Giving guidance on the things to be on the lookout for in the workplace especially from a legal perspective.

DR ANTHEA CERESTO – CEO AT THE GOVERNING BODY FOUNDATION

Some of the stationery lists, especially those from quintile three schools that don't require school fees, request that parents purchase a pack of 10 toilet rolls, a box of tissues, two bottles of liquid soap and two reams of white paper. Some parents have also claimed that their children’s schools have threatened that pupils won’t be allowed in school, should they not fulfil the stationery requirements.

DR LEVY NDOU – POLITICAL ANALYST

The African National Congress (ANC) is celebrating 113 years of its existence this weekend. The celebrations will culminate in the main January 8 Statement Rally, which will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, Western Cape. For the first time in recent years, the January 8 Statement will be delivered in Khayelitsha, a community in the Western Cape known for its rich history of struggle against colonialism, apartheid, and its ongoing challenges of inequality.

COMMISSIONER OF THE BORDER MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (BMA) DR MICHAEL MASIAPATO

The South African Border Management Authority (BMA) is in need of about R4.3 billion, including extra personnel, in order to bring it into full operational capacity, and improve it’s capabilities of dealing with border intrusions. Despite this, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA) Dr Michael Masiapato revealed that it had arrested more than 120 illegal immigrants who tried to enter the country illegally by Saturday January 4.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Signs of Someone you Feel is Just not That Interested in Being with you.

They are just not that into you!!! Sometimes we’re head over heels in love with someone who’s there, but they are just not that interested in us. It could be someone your just vibing with and on the other side of the spectrum, it could be someone you’re married to. No matter the situation it can quickly become toxic and then depressing when you find yourself dating or married to someone who’s just not that into you. Tonight, we’ll look at the signs of this, can you make them more into you and how to get over or even break-up with someone you feel is just not that interested in being with you.

WINNERS FROM THE TOWNSHIP ECONOMY AWARDS.

We celebrate and catch up with a couple of winners from the Township Economy Awards 2024.

BENOÎT LE ROY – CEO AT THE S.A WATER CHAMBER

We might be beach ready, but are the countries beaches ready for us? There’s been a mix bag of reports with regards to water and beach quality along South Africa’s 3000km coastline. We find out from an expert if South Africa is beach ready.

KHAYA SITHOLE - ACCOUNTANT, ACADEMIC, AND SOCIAL COMMENTATOR

Total employment in the formal sector declined by 133 000 jobs or 1.2% in the third quarter, compared to the second quarter of this year. This is according to data from Statistics South Africa. The Quarterly Employment Statistics recorded formal job numbers at 10.6 million from 10.7 million. The decrease in jobs stemmed from significant declines in community services, business services, manufacturing, transport, mining and electricity employment.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: - STOKVELS

The South African stokvel sector is valued at R50- billion, is made up of more than 800 000 Stokvel groups and 11-million members according to an Ipsos study. Two and a half billion of the world’s working adults are excluded from financial services and in South Africa, stokvels are one of the most important microfinance instruments used to bridge this gap. Over the years financial institutions have also rushed to create accounts and other financial instruments to meet the demands of stokvels and formalise and innovate the ways in which these funds are invested. These trends are a sign that this age-old savings method is likely to continue to grow in the future.

LATIFAH JACOBS – HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST & MEMBER OF THE CAPE CRISIS COMMITTEE.

As the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children draws to a close today, the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape has pledged to address GBV in the taxi industry. The collaboration follows reports of sexual and physical abuse of women in taxis and at taxi ranks, raising concerns about the treatment of passengers, especially women and children. SANTACO in the province and the Cape Crisis Committee have partnered to tackle GBV, public safety, and social cohesion.

NZAMA MBALATI – CEO AT THE HEALTHY LIVING ALLIANCE (HEALA)

More than 1,000 children have died of severe malnutrition in the past two years in South Africa – this was revealed by Minister of health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi in a response to parliament. Last year it was revealed that 12,582 children had died from severe acute malnutrition and moderate acute malnutrition since 2013.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: SA Politics Wrap – 2024

2024 was always bound to become a hot potato as far as politics are concerned. Since the elections in May, a lot has happened within those parties, between those parties and tonight we will be looking at the politics in South Africa over the last year and hear from party representatives from the top parties in parliament on their take on the state of the nation as 2024 draws to a close.

Road Accident Fund Scams

We touched on this one yesterday an got comment from the police, this evening we’ll be talking to the Road Accident Fund about reports of a trend in which criminals are targeting beneficiaries of the Road Accident Fund. Beneficiaries are being kidnapped and then robbed off the funds they have received. Meanwhile … RAF says it has noticed a growing trend of people throwing themselves in front of cars in order to claim from the fund.

DR SHARON NYATSANZA (PH.D.) - DEPUTY DIRECTOR AT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL AGAINST SMOKING

Experts are ringing the alarm as nearly 30% of Grade 12 learners report active use of vaping in a groundbreaking study led by the University of Cape Town (UCT), from a pool of 25 000 pupils across 52 schools. When it comes to addiction, the study found that between 40% and 60% of learners who vape are likely addicted to nicotine, with many reporting withdrawal symptoms, such as needing to vape immediately after waking.

THE LEGAL TALK: Co-Parenting Over The Holidays

On this week’s edition of legal talk we’re looking at laws surrounding co-parenting. We’ve somewhat entered the holiday season and many parents will be wanting to spend time with their children, however, that can quickly become complicated for co-parents when they don’t see eye to eye about how to share time spent with their children especially on important holidays like Christmas Day, or don’t seem to agree when it comes to family cultural events, overseas trips and other matters relating to the custody of their children.

BRIGADIER DONALD MDHULI – (SAPS MPUMALANGA)

Another day, another new target for criminals in South Africa as reports emerge of criminals who are targeting beneficiaries of the Road Accident Fund. Beneficiaries are being kidnapped and then robbed off the funds they have received. Police in Mpumalanga are warning of a surge in this kind of crime as and have confirmed a total of five people attacked and robbed of undisclosed amounts of cash in Tweefontein between 11 November and 23 November this year.

NOMZAMO NKATSHU - (The co-founder of the Le Rona Re Batho Memorial Trust) AND ENVER SAMUEL (An award-winning documentary filmmaker)

Today, the 9 th of December marks the 42nd Commemoration of the 1982 Maseru Massacre which saw Apartheid forces killing 30 South African exiles and 12 Lesotho nationals under the guise of “fighting terrorism”. Now, survivors, children and grandchildren of the victims are crying out for more recognition of this moment in our history.

KHANYISA MAPIPA - (HEAD OF HEALTH RIGHTS AT SECTION27) AND SIDWELL MBASA - (THE TREATMENT ACTION CAMPAIGN'S GAUTENG PROVINCIAL CHAIRPERSON)

The Gauteng Department of Health failed to utilise R250 million that it was allocated for the treatment of cancer patients in 2023. The funds were simply not used despite a massive backlog in the number of cancer patients seeking crucial treatment. The revelation was made in court papers as the department is currently facing a legal battle with civil society regarding it’s usage of funds allocated for cancer treatments.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: WHY DON’T YOU WANT TO GO HOME AND BE WITH YOUR FAMILY?

While excitement builds for the holiday season, multiple studies have found that the holiday periods can be a very anxious and depressing time for a number of people. One of the reasons for this is toxic family dynamics, and this evening we’ll be focusing on toxic family dynamics and family members, how this can affect one’s mental health and how to go about navigating such relationships.

PROF MBULU MADIBA – EDUCATION EXPERT

As South African learners enter the holidays, questions continue to be raised about the quality of education they are receiving. South Africa’s grade 5 and grade 9 learners have again ranked extremely low in the 2023 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). South Africa’s grade 5 learners—who were largely assessed against grade 4 learners from other countries—placed stone last among the 58 nations assessed for both mathematics and science. The grade 9 learners—who were largely assessed against grade 8 learners from other countries—placed slightly better, ranking fifth- last.

CONTRALESA SECRETARY GENERAL - ZOLANI MKIVA

Extortionists are now targeting initiates as they demand money from parents in exchange of guaranteeing the safety of their children at initiation schools. December is initiation season in some parts of the country with young boys taking part in the tradition as they transition to adulthood.  Several cases have been reported in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: (Young Women Aged 15 – 24 in South Africa Continue to Bear the Brunt of the HIV)

Although South Africa has made strides in the fight against HIV infections over the last decade, young women aged 15 – 24 in South Africa continue to bear the brunt of the HIV pandemic registering 1300 new cases weekly, while the infection rate amoungst boys of the same age is three times lower. In a speech commemorating World Aids Day, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said that young women in the country continue to be vulnerable to HIV infection, citing the phenomenon of sugar daddy relationships as one of the reasons for young girls and women being infected the most.

PROF. BOITUMELO SENOKOANE – POLITICAL ANALYST

It could just be the end for ANC KwaZulu-Natal leaders after they presented an apparently underwhelming report to the party’s national working committee (NWC) on reasons why they lost so many votes in the May election - relegating the party to 3 rd position behind the MKP and IFP in the province.

MZWANDILE MASINA - CHAIRPERSON FOR THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON TRADE, INDUSTRY AND COMPETITION.

The 5 Major Banks in the country will need to appear in parliament to answer questions regarding some of their policies, especially credit for entrepreneurs, and bank charges. Chairperson for the Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition, Mzwandile Masina, is questioning the sensibility of the policies and laws that the banks make.

PASEKA LETSTATSI - HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS AT THE SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIAL SECURITY AGENCY - SASSA

The CEO of the South African Social Security Agency - Sassa, Busisiwe Memela-Khambula, has been placed on on precautionary suspension, with full pay, by Social Development minister Nokuzola Tolashe. This as a cloud hangs over the Memela-Khambula because of questions surrounding her appointment as CEO of Sassa. The Social Development minister said the precautionary suspension was prompted “by the need to conduct the investigation without hindrance or interference given Memela-Khambula’s position as CEO of Sassa.”

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8 - CABINET RESHUFFLE

Mmamoloko Tryphosa Kubayi, the former Minister of Human Settlements, steps in as the new Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development. In a swap, Thembi Nkadimeng moves to helm Human Settlements after her stint with Justice and Constitutional Development. Further reflecting section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution, Phumzile Mgcina takes the role of Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, transitioning from her previous position as Deputy Minister of Labour and Employment. Meanwhile, Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala assumes the deputy role at Employment and Labour, moving from her prior focus on Minerals and Petroleum. "The changes to the national executive are effective immediately. I would like to wish these members of the national executive well in their new positions," said Ramaphosa.

WILLEM ELS – CRIME AND SECURITY EXPERT

We weren’t able to get to this one last night: The Border Management Authority (BMA) says it has stopped 410 000 individuals attempting to enter the country illegally since the deployment of the first cohort of the border guards in July 2022. The majority of those were arrested, fingerprinted, declared undesirable for a period of five years, and deported. The authority will also share border control plans they have for the festive season.

VELEMSENI MTHIYANE – SABC SPECIALIST RESEARCHER IN ECONOMICS.

A disappointing day at the office for South Africa as Real gross domestic product – GDP - weakened by 0,3% in the third quarter (July–September) of 2024. The report by Statistics South Africa found that the agriculture industry was the main drag on growth on the production side of the economy, with transport, trade and government services also contributing to the slowdown.

THE LEGAL TALK - ROMANCE SCAMS

Romance scams are growing by the day in South Africa and globally as scam artists lure people online who are desperate for love and use their vulnerability to manipulate them into giving them large sums of money. NTHABISENG DUBAZANA – LEGAL COMMENTATOR AND OWNER OF DUBAZANA ATTORNEYS. ADV TUMI MASAKO – WHO SPECIALISES IN LITIGATION, CIVIL, CRIMINAL AND LABOUR AND COMMERCIAL LAW

MEC FOR ROADS AND TRANSPORT IN GAUTENG: MS KEDIBONE DIALE- TLABELA

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has launched the new “Adopt and Protect a Robot” campaign. The public-private partnership seeks to address the ongoing challenges with traffic lights within the province, such as regular outages and theft and vandalism, by transferring partial responsibility for these state assets to local businesses.

SABC NEWS ECONOMICS EDITOR – TSHEPO MONGOAI

US President-elect Donald Trump has a sent a warning to Brics countries, which include South Africa, about creating a new currency. Trump went on to say “We require a commitment from these countries that they will neither create a new Brics currency, nor back any other currency to replace the mighty US dollar or, they will face 100% tariffs, and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US economy,” Is our economy too reliant on the west? We chat about this next.

TECH WRITER & EDITOR – LINDSEY SCHUTTERS AND SOCIAL MEDIA, PRIVACY & CYBERSECURITY EXPERT – DIANA SCHWARZ

Social media usage continues to grow more and more by the day with Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp and Tik Tok leading the pack globally. However as we continue share, like and comment, these companies are able to collect all kinds of data on their users. In the U.S, there’s a looming ban of Tik Tok based on debatable fears about privacy. However similar concerns remain about most of the other platforms. So in South Africa what does the law say and should there be more regulation?

WAYNE DUVENAGE – CEO AT THE ORGANISATION UNDOING TAX ABUSE (OUTA)

Despite much improvement in audit findings on government departments and agencies - A lack of accountability and a continued culture of non- compliance are just some of the reasons government wasted R38 billion in overspending, according to a presentation by the Auditor General to parliament.

GERHARD LE ROUX - SOUTH AFRICAN RETAIL ADVOCATE & EXECUTIVE AT CAPITAL CONNECT

Black Friday 2024 could see a major boost in sales as multiple economic indicators show that the economy is returning to pre-pandemic levels. Research is forecasting that that 21% of all formal sales in the year 2024 will result from Black Friday and Festive Season sales. This evening we look at consumer sentiment as we enter Black Friday Weekend and how this will empower the retail sector and the economy.

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8 - TEACHERS & LEARNERS (SEXUAL OFFENCES)

Four primary school teachers, four general assistants, and one food handler were amoung nine Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) employees who were able to get jobs in the department with criminal records related to sexual offences. This was revealed through a presentation by the department. Out of over 86 000 employees in Gauteng public schools, just under 9,000, or 10.2%, have been vetted against the National Register for Sexual Offences (NRSO).

REUBEN MALEKA – GENERAL MANAGER FOR TRADE UNION - THE PUBLIC SERVANTS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA.

Following the breaking out of a fire at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in the nation’s capital - the Public Servants' Association has called for an immediate and comprehensive audit of the infrastructure at Steve Biko Academic Hospital and all public health-care facilities to identify and address fire hazards and other risks. Current data shows that most public health facilities are not in keeping with basic standards that are required.

ADV RICHARD SIZANI - CHAIRPERSON OF THE ELECTORAL REFORM CONSULTATION PANEL

Keeping MPs & their political parties accountable is one of the major concerns regarding our electoral system in South Africa. This was a common concern contained in submissions to the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel.

SIMON ZWANE – CHIEF COMMUNICATION OFFICER AT THE ROAD TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT CORPORATION.

MPs have welcomed the Department of Transport’s plan to a 24-hour deployment of traffic police over the festive season However, a thorn on the side of traffic policing in South Africa is corruption as studies find that traffic law enforcers in the country are open to taking bribes for motorists who are breaking the law. How will the 24-hour deployment help with that aspect?

After 8 Is After 8: ( many are increasingly turning to gambling as a way to make ends meet )

As the pockets of many South Africans run dry, many are increasingly turning to gambling as a way to make ends meet – especially with the increase in the number of online platforms available for people easily engage in gambling. Data released by financial planners Olemera, shows that South Africans have spent a massive R1.1 trillion on gambling in 2024 so far, already 40% more than in 2023. Meanwhile another report has found that gambling is on the increase amoungst young children.

KZN Premier – Thami Ntuli

KZN remains one of the crime hot spots in the country. Reporting some of the highest numbers in rape, murder & assault. The KwaZulu-Natal premier launched the Provincial 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign today. And we’ll be chatting to him about this and more.

Sandile Swana – Political Analyst

What’s happening with the EFF as it heads to it’s 3 rd National People’s Assembly? EFF CIC Julius Malema has admitted that the party has taken major blows this year, following disappointing election results and multiple senior leaders of the party defecting to the MK Party. - Malema says relationship with MK will remain good, especially in parliament, however, they (and Jacob Zuma) are now an enemy of the EFF. - Questions remain about Ndlozi (vs Godrich Gardee). - Phala Phala Court case. We unpack all this as the party heads to it’s 3 rd elective conference in December.

Legal Talk ( Nthabiseng Dubazana – Legal commentator and owner of Dubazana Attorneys )

Today marks the beginning of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence – which is a global initiative that seeks to raise awareness, promote advocacy, and inspire action to combat gender- based violence. For legal Talk this evening we’ll be asking: Are perpetrators protected by our laws? Is our law hard enough on perpetrators of GBV? What are some of the loopholes that see perpetrators get away with their crime? And will the new laws created to fight GBV bring change?

DR John Hlophe

Dr John Hlophe - Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly & Deputy President of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. Hlophe was the first black judge appointed to the bench in 1995 and also the first who came from an academic background. In 2000, he became the judge president of the Western Cape High Court. His story has since been bumpy over the last almost two decades. This year alone, he went from being an impeached judge by parliament, only to become a member of parliament and the leader of the opposition months later.

After 8 Is After 8: The Growth of Ozempic as a form of weight loss

The Growth of Ozempic as a form of weight loss: Has South Africa caught the bug?

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi

Today we talk to Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who has had a many allegations levelled against him. Premier Lesufi has been in office for over a 100 days and today he joins us in studio to clarify all those claims levelled against him.

After 8 Is After 8 - illegal Miners (Human rights education)

Human rights education is vital in order for all to enjoy their human rights. In the last week we saw the story of illegal miners who were seemingly stuck underground in Stilfontein, trend as many grappled with the question of whether they should be rescued using public resources considering the fact that they were engaging in an illegal activity.

Deputy Minister of Finance ( Ashor Sarupen )

The historic Durban Declaration of Crime Free Construction Sites has been signed by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson, Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale, Deputy Minister of Finance Ashor Sarupen, and Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) chair Khulile Nzo at the National Construction Summit on Crime-Free Construction in Durban. The agreement is set to decisively stop the criminal disruption of construction sites countrywide by the so-called construction mafia.

Timothy Walker (Maritime Project Leader and Senior Researcher at the Institute for Security Studies)

The SA Navy has only one working warship partially patrolling South Africa’s territorial waters. All the navy’s submarines are out of service, its five outdated patrol vessels are broken and none of the four diving teams is operational. Defence Minister Angie Motshekga revealed all of this during a parliamentary question- and-answer- session. Motshekga says this is not as a result of mismanagement but due to financial constraints faced by the SA Navy.

KZN SAPS spokesperson ( Colonel Robert Netshiunda )

After 8 Is After 8: (The vast majority of men in South Africa believe that a woman should obey her husband)

The study found that a significant number of men - almost a quarter of them - believe that a woman cannot refuse to have sex with her husband. In addition to looking at the prevalence of GBV in the country, the study explored norms and attitudes and gender-power relations amongst women and men.

Adv Collen Weapond – (The commissioner responsible for POPIA at The Information Regulator)

Information Regulator ban’s publishing of matric results. According to the Information Regulator of South Africa (IR), an Infringement Notice and an Enforcement Notice were issued to the Department of Basic Education earlier this month stating that the department’s failure to comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act last year means that the matric results of the class of 2024 will not be published in newspapers.

Ra’eesa Pather - (The lead investigator on the report for Open Secrets)

Open Secrets, a non-profit organisation which exposes and builds accountability for private sector economic crimes, has released an investigative report, unveiling how luxury property in South Africa has become a tool for laundering vast sums of money tied to corruption across the African continent.

After 8 Is After 8 - THE LEGAL TALK

Why South Africans Are NOT Running SPAZA SHOPS

KZN Premier (Thamsanqa Ntuli KwaZulu-Natal Premier)

We are joined by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli to talk about how they will tackle the issue of poisoned Spaza Shop food following reports of a growing number of cases of children dying from eating food allegedly bought at spaza shops in the province.

After 8 After 8: We are talking all things love and astrology

We are joined In-Studio by our resident commentators as well a Dating Navigation Strategist & personal development coach with a key interest in astrology to look at planetary factors that can provide insight into our zodiac sign compatibility as well as which sign pairings are the most compatible, the most challenging, and the those that are just hit-or-miss.

Inclusion Of Traditional Healers (Dr Mpho Malatji - Chairperson of the Communications’ Committee of the Traditional Health Practitioners Council)

We are now joined by the Chairperson of the Communications’ Committee of the Traditional Health Practitioners Council, Dr Mpho Malatji about their calls for the inclusion of traditional healers in the broader healthcare system.

After 8 Is After 8 - Social Housing "RDP"

We look at South Africa’s social housing, RDP, sector which is facing systemic struggles. Rising construction costs, slow release of land, and insufficient grant funding. The challenges, among others, are compromising the sector’s ability to deliver new units at the pace and scale needed.

Climate Change

We are now talking about all things Climate change. We will kick off the conversation with the Presidential Climate Commission who joined the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, who is leading the South African delegation to COP29 Climate Summit, which is currently taking place in Baku, in the Republic of Azerbaijan, ending on November 22nd. For an update on the summit so far

Trapped IIIegal Miners

Thousands of trapped illegal miners at a closed North West mine have promised to hand themselves to the police. The group wants their dead colleagues, together with the sick and injured to be attended to first. They requested rope so bodies can be removed back to the surface. The group communicated through local community leaders, alleging to have given up on hiding underground, and were ready to exit the mine and face the law. Over 1 000 illegal miners from the shaft have already been arrested. The remaining group had their food supply cut off after police patrolled entrance and exit points.

After 8 Is After 8: We unpack the state of South African Graveyards

Graveyards and tombstones have different importance to different people within a cultural, religious or heritage context, several graveyards in South Africa have become crime hot spots. The vandalism or stealing of fencing and tombstones at gravesites around the country is widely reported. Overgrown grass and unfenced cemeteries are a common sight

Electricity Minister: (Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa Electricity Minister)

We speak to the Minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa about measures taken to resolve the dispute of City Power’s billion rand debt owed to Eskom, which subsequently made the power utility to withdraw its threat to cut power supply to City of Joburg power entity City Power.

EPWP Nepotism Concerns: (Lennox Mabaso Head of Communications at Department of Public Works and Infrastructure)

We are joined by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to talk about the varying concerns of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) with allegations of Jobs being sold for money and loyalty, and women being exploited under the programme.

Unemployment Stats:' ( Tonight we are asking: Are our school leavers prepared for the world of work? )

According to Stats SA Quarterly Labour Force Survey, the number of employed persons increased by 294,000 to 16.9 million in Q3 2024. This means that South Africa’s official unemployment rate has reached 32.1% for the third quarter of 2024 - improving by 1.4 percentage points over the previous quarter. Tonight we are asking: Are our school leavers prepared for the world of work?

The Legal Talk: What are the laws around self-defence in South Africa?

South African law allows you to fight back in an attack, but there's a catch! You can only use force that's reasonable for the situation.

George Michalakis (DA Parliamentary Chief Whip)

Presidency Oversight Committee: The DA, along with parties outside the government of national unity, voted to establish an oversight committee on the presidency in Parliament. This has angered the ANC. We speak to the DA Chief Whip and a political analyst about whether there is a need for such a committee. The ANC wasn't available to join us for the discussion this evening.

Tebogo Nkonkou - (MMC for Community Development in the city of Johannesburg)

We are joined In-Studio by the newly appointed MMC for Community Development in the city of Johannesburg, Tebogo Nkonkou following the removal of Kabelo Gwamanda, the former mayor of Johannesburg, who was fired from his role as MMC for the same portfolio after being accused of participating in a fraudulent funeral insurance scheme.

After 8 Is After 8: The importance of men taking care of their physical health.

In light of Movember, a global campaign that takes place every November to raise awareness of men's health issues and raise funds for men affected by cancer. We are joined by our commentators in the studio and our experts on the line to unpack the importance of men taking care of their physical health. Why they don't go for check ups and why they should, men's hygiene, eating healthy and exercising. All these affect the men's mental health, their confidence, etc.

Car Insurance Not A Favourite

According to statistics, approximately 65% of South African drivers still don’t have car insurance! In a country with a high mortality rate, many brave hearts have decided to take on the challenge of South Africa’s dangerous roads without insurance. We speak to experts about how car insurance is essential for financial protection and road safety. And look into why it is that driving without insurance remains a significant problem in SA. WHY DO YOU PREFER TO DRIVE WITHOUT INSURANCE?

Maintenance Defaulters In Trouble

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Maintenance Online Listing of Defaulters Project has been welcomed as a move to close the gap between maintenance courts, service providers and the credit industry. We speak to the department of Justice and Constitutional Development as well as our resident legal expert, Isaac Moselane about these developments.

Diphaphang "Shimmy" Mochobo (Managing Director of MEG Security)

Business Wednesday: Still on the business theme, we now speak to the Managing Director of MEG Security with unique security expertise, Diphaphang "Shimmy" Mochobo. He joins us to talk to us about the man behind the business and more about the security sector and how he has managed to keep going, 20 years later.

Zamane Lejane (Chairman of the Akani Retirement Fund)

Business Wednesday: The Chairman of the Akani Retirement Fund, Zamane Lejane joins us to talk about the 2 pot payments they have made, and help you with yours in the process. They are the administrators of the Municipal Pension Fund that issued the statement which we will get into. They also speak on behalf of the MEPF.

Advocate Sipho Mantula - (Researcher from Thabo Mbeki School of Public and International Affairs)

Mozambique Violent Protests: As of today, the Border Management Authority temporarily closed the Lebombo port of entry this evening and for more than a week, internet access in Mozambique has been restricted, throttled by authorities in a desperate bid to silence protests that have swept the nation.

Johanna Leblanc - (Expert in National Security Law and Foreign Relations Expert based in Washington)

Donald Trump has won the US election and will make a historic return to the White House.

After 8 Is After 8: Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams (Minister of Small Business Development)

We are joined by the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams about why there are no effective regulations on spaza shops whether owned by South Africans or foreign nationals in the country. The department says it will introduce legislation in Parliament that will include reserving certain sectors of the economy for South Africans.

Racism At Pretoria Girls High (MEC Matome Chiloane Gauteng Education MEC Mugwena Maluleke SADTU General Secretary)

An independent investigation into an alleged culture of racism at Pretoria High School for Girls has recommended disciplinary action against members of staff who did not take learners' complaints seriously. Furthermore, the investigation has found that there are incidents of a racial nature that have been reported since 2019 up to July 2024 with some learners and staff believing that racism existed at the school but in more subtle forms.

BELA Bill (Kallie Kriel AfriForum CEO Steven Mollo TeachersCAN Network Mobiliser)

Today a large crowd of more than 10 000 people took part in the protest against the BELA Bill, which included individuals, political parties and social groups. Led by AfriForum, Solidarity, and other organisations who were concerned about Afrikaans education in opposition to the current BELA Bill format.

US Presidential Race (Johanna Leblanc - J.D. LL.M in National US Security Law and Foreign Relations. Dr TK Pooe - Public Policy Specialist at Wits University School of Governance)

At around 5pm this afternoon, the latest polls were showing a tie between Harris and Trump as voting began. The polls are open in more than 40 states, including six of the seven battleground states: North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin and Arizona.