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Lotus FM News Break
#PODCAST CRL Rights Commission reaffirms its stance to protect SA's diverse communities
By Newsbreak Producer, Taliesha Naidoo - The CRL Rights Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting South Africa's cultural, religious, and linguistic communities. The South African Church Defenders have filed papers in the High Court in Johannesburg seeking to interdict the Commission's activities, while also calling for the removal of its chairperson, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva for alleged poor performance. Legal opinions from Parliament maintain that the Commission's actions fall within its constitutional mandate. Briefing the media in Johannesburg Mkhwanazi-Xaluva's reiterated that the Commission will continue its work unless instructed otherwise by a court of law. SABC reporter Amahle Cele has more details...
#PODCAST Tiffany Meek pleads not guilty
By Newsbreak Producer, Taliesha Naidoo - Tiffany Meek who's accused of killing her 11-year-old son Jayden-Lee has pleaded not guilty to all charges against her. She appeared in the high court sitting at Palm Ridge in Ekurhuleni. The 32-year-old faces several charges including murder, obstructing the administration of justice, and attempting to defeat the administration of justice. Jayden-Lee was reported missing on the 13th of May last year. His body was discovered the next morning, near a stairway in the complex where he lived with his mother in Fleurhof, west of Johannesburg. SABC reporter, Refilwe Mekoa has more details....
#PODCAST OceanHub Africa launches Impact Report showcasing significant growth in the continent's blue economy #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Matthew Veeran - OceanHub Africa has officially launched its inaugural five-year Impact Report at the Ocean Innovation Africa 2026 summit in Durban, charting the growth of the continent's regenerative blue economy. The report reveals that the initiative has supported 149 ocean-impact ventures, which have collectively mobilized over $20 million in capital and sustained more than 1,700 full-time jobs. Managing Director Herland Cerveaux is now calling for increased ecosystem support to scale these local entrepreneurial solutions into a resilient, Africa-led marine economy...
#PODCAST Over 3,000 law enforcement officers to be deployed across KwaZulu-Natal for the Easter Road Safety Campaign #sabcnews
More than three-thousand law enforcement agencies will be deployed across KwaZulu-Natal over the Easter weekend in a bid to decrease road fatalities in the province. Transport MEC, Siboniso Duma launched the Easter Holiday Campaign at uMdloti, north of Durban this morning. He says there will be joint operations across the province and officers will be using advanced technology systems to enhance safety. Khalesakhe Mbhense reports...
#PODCAST SAHPRA recall contaminated Citro-Soda batches at Adcock Ingram facility following whistle blower report #sabcnews
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has recalled specific batches of Citro-Soda Regular due to contamination risks identified at the Adcock Ingram manufacturing facility in Clayville. The regulator says the recall is limited to Citro-Soda with the barcode starting with the letter "C" and adds that the product will be recalled from various wholesalers and retail outlets. SAHPRA says the recall of the Regular Citro-Soda produced at the Adcock manufacturing facility followed a whistleblower report. Naledi Mabitsela filed this report...
#PODCAST SASSA plan outreach program in Verulam north of Durban to assist residents with social grant applications #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Tashlan Naidoo - The South African Social Security Agency or SASSA in KwaZulu-Natal will host an outreach program at Verulam north of Durban to assist with an array of service delivery issues. SASSA says the decision to host the outreach program is because they do not have an office in Verulam, which is causing a great inconvenience for scores of residents. SASSA will be accompanied by the Department of Social Development (DSD) and the National Development Agency (NDA), will deliver a comprehensive package of services directly to the community. KZN SASSA spokesperson, Mbizeni Mdlalose says issues such as grant applications and biometric capturing will be done on site.... *SASSA representatives will be at the Mahlabathini Cottonlands Sport Ground at Verulam north of Durban from 10am on Friday the 27th of March. Resident are urged to bring along relevant documents including valid ID documents.
#PODCAST KZN scientist says SA is falling behind on WHO's End TB Strategy
By Newsbreak Producer, Taliesha Naidoo - Today marks World Tuberculosis Day under the theme "Yes! We Can End TB! Led by countries, Powered by people". According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), South Africa's multi-pronged efforts have led to a 53% reduction in its TB incidence rate since 2015, while treatment coverage has increased from 58% to 77% since 2020. However, it is still the second greatest killer worldwide due to a single infectious agent. Joining us on the line to discuss this further is Deputy Director & Head of the TB HIV Treatment Research Program at CAPRISA - Professor Kogie Naidoo.....
#PODCAST Over 3000 officers deployed in KZN for Easter Road Safety Campaign
By Newsbreak Producer, Tracy Valaydham - More than three-thousand law enforcement agencies will be deployed across KwaZulu-Natal over the Easter weekend in a bid to decrease road fatalities in the province. Transport MEC, Siboniso Duma launched the Easter Holiday Campaign at uMdloti, north of Durban this morning. He says there will be joint operations across the province and officers will be using advanced technology systems to enhance safety. Duma says they have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards lawlessness and drunk driving. SABC Reporter Khalesakhe Mbense has more ....
#PODCAST Durban Indian Film Festival celebrates India–South Africa cultural ties
By Newsbreak Producer, Taliesha Naidoo - The Consulate General of India in Durban will host a three-day Indian Film Festival from the 26th to the 28th of March in Durban. The festival aims to celebrate the richness and diversity of Indian cinema. Multiple acclaimed Bollywood films will be showcased, including an isiZulu-dubbed version. Entry for the film festival is free, but pre-registration is required on a first-come, first-served basis. Indian Consul-General in Durban, Niteen Subhash Yeola says the event is designed to strengthen cultural ties between India and South Africa while allowing audiences to engage with Indian storytelling.....
#PODCAST Jazz maestro Kesivan Naidoo to headline South Africa's inaugural Montreux Jazz Festival in Franschhoek #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Matthew Veeran - Global jazz maestro Kesivan Naidoo headlines the inaugural Montreux Jazz Festival in Franschhoek this week, marking the historic South African debut of a prestigious international franchise. The East London-born drummer and composer will serve as a vital catalyst for the event, fronting the ama-Big Band to showcase a unique fusion of Cape jazz heritage and contemporary improvisation. This upcoming performance also sets the stage for Naidoo's highly anticipated tour leg at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) this May. Matthew tracked down the busy musician to find out his thoughts ahead of this Friday's big event...
#PODCAST EW-SETA prioritises skills development and SMME support for South Africa's just energy transition #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Tashlan Naidoo - The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EW-SETA) says skills development and enterprise support are critical as South Africa ramps up efforts toward a cleaner, just energy transition. As part of the Presidential Climate Commission, Government are working toward a low-carbon economy that will drive economic growth, create jobs and increase energy security, while addressing the threat of climate change. The EW-SETA recently participated in the 2026 Energy Indaba, where several Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) showcased their technologies and engaged with industry leaders. Corporate Services Executive at the EW-SETA, Candice Moodley says there is great potential for job creation and skill development, should the correct policies be put in place and utilised correctly...
#PODCAST Amanzimtoti prepares for KZN tourism boost with dinosaur spectacle and Easter holiday events #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Hoosen Ebrahim - Sapphire Coast Tourism has announced a series of major events set to draw crowds to Amanzimtoti over the Easter and early winter holiday period, positioning the coastal town as a key seasonal destination. The line-up includes a first-of-its-kind dinosaur and reptile spectacle, alongside family-friendly markets and interactive experiences aimed at boosting local tourism. Organisers say the initiative highlights the region's appeal, combining warm weather, accessible beaches, and diverse entertainment offerings just south of Durban. The events are expected to attract families, holidaymakers, and adventure-seekers, providing a timely economic boost to the area. Dinomite Events Organiser, Masoud Ahmed explains the educational impact on children...
#PODCAST Experts urge eye health awareness and global collaboration for World Optometry Week #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Intern Snenhlahla Dlamini - As the world marks Optometry Week, health experts are calling for more self-awareness and education around eye health. This year, the World Council of Optometry (WCO) is observing World Optometry Week under the theme, "A Shared Vision: Collaboration in Global Eye Care." Allison Deysel, Hospital Manager of the Pietermartizburg Eye Hospital says simple behavioural changes such as reducing screen time and wearing the correctly prescribed pair of glasses can help protect your eye health...
#PODCAST De Kok refutes any involvement in execution of the Cradock Four
By Newsbreak Producer, Taliesha Naidoo - Former apartheid police commander Eugene de Kok is currently on the stand at the Cradock 4 inquest at the Gqeberha High Court in the Eastern Cape. De Kok has blatantly denied any involvement in the planning and execution of the Cradock 4. He has testified how instructions were received at Vlakplaas, and how the telephone was used to get information on certain individuals. The seventy-seven year old is currently being examined by his lawyer, Juan Schoeman. The Cradock 4 - Fort Calata, Matthew Goniwe, Sparrow Mkhonto and Sicelo Mhlauli - were anti-apartheid activists, who were abducted and killed by the apartheid police in 1985. This is currently the third inquest into these killings. SABC Reporter Ntombozuko Balintulo is at court and bring us an update ....
#PODCAST A simple phone call can help Merewent Cheshire Home drive change
By Newsbreak Producer, Taresh Harreeparshad - 10 Calls of Kindness could help the Merewent Cheshire Homes, south of Durban get a new bus. The home that takes care of people with disabilities is in dire need of transportation upgrades. In addition, the home needs to service it's municipal debt. They're calling on the public to help them achieve their goals by simply picking up the phone. Manager Winnie Mkhize explains how this act of kindness can help them be of service to the community....
#PODCAST The South African Hindu Maha Sabha say the CRL Commission could pose "potential threat" to religious independence #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Senior Producer Taresh Harreeparshad - The South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) is concerned that the CRL Rights Commission could infringe on the autonomy of Hindu religious organisations if it goes ahead with the establishment of the Section 22 committee without consultation. Deputy President of the Maha Sabha Prof. Brij Maharaj says that there has been a lack of consultation with the Hindu community on the proposed Section 22 committee...
#PODCAST CRL Commission reject "non-consultation" claims and look ahead to meeting with religious leaders in Chatsworth this weekend #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Taresh Harreeparshad - Meanwhile, the CRL Rights Commission refutes the claim that the Hindu community has not been consulted about the proposed Section 22 Committee. CRL Rights Commission's Dr Rajendran Govender says that a planned meeting has been organised for consultations this Saturday in Chatsworth, south of Durban- and all Hindu organisations are invited to attend... *The consultation takes place on Saturday at the SATF Cultural Centre, 42 Silverglen Drive, Chatsworth.
#PODCAST 50 years on from Durban's Tin Town floods, survivors reunite to recall their memories and subsequent relocation #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Producer Shanell Daniel - It's been 50 years since the Tin Town floods in Durban destroyed the homes and livelihoods of many residents. A special Tin Town residents' reunion was hosted in Phoenix at the weekend where surviving residents shared their memories of the 1976 floods which forced many into temporary tents in Asherville before relocation to Phoenix. One such resident is Ronnie Bhudai who was teenager when the floods occurred. He shares his experience and joy after reuniting with other survivors...
#PODCAST Durban communities sound the alarm - as the trend of recruiting schoolgirls into the drug trade continues #sabcnews
By Newsbreak Senior Producer Taresh Harreeparshad - Local communities are fearing that schoolgirls are fast becoming drug peddlers in the classroom. Private security company Reaction Unit South Africa claims they have been receiving several calls from parents claiming that their daughters were involved in the drug trade. According to director Prem Balram he has had to deal with at least five cases this month of schoolgirls peddling drugs in Durban...
#PODCAST Wellness Wakeup: New parenting technology aims to revolutionize Early Childhood Development (ECD) outcomes #sacbnews
By Newsbreak Producer Shanell Daniel - Supporting parents early on in their child's life is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term health and developmental outcomes of the child. That's according to Parenting Expert and Tech Developer of Parent Sense, Meg Faure. In this week's Wellness Wake-Up Faure explains how the innovative app works and how it is changing the parenting landscape...
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