listen to METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Can We Live Meaningful Lives Without God or Spirituality? Does It Really Matter?
Some of humanity's greatest achievements have been inspired by faith. Some of our greatest acts of compassion have come from people who believe deeply in God, while others have come from those who don't believe at all. Across the world, billions of people pray, worship and draw strength from their spiritual beliefs, saying their faith gives them purpose, hope and a moral compass. But millions of others argue that meaning isn't something handed down from heaven—it's something we create ourselves through love, family, kindness, science, philosophy, service and the relationships we build. So, can someone live a deeply meaningful, fulfilling and ethical life without believing in God? Does spirituality offer something unique that cannot be replaced, or are purpose and happiness ultimately human qualities that exist regardless of faith? Tonight, we ask one of life's oldest and most profound questions: does believing in something beyond ourselves really change the way we live?
Maluta Netshaulu, Head of Social Impact Portfolio Development at Nedbank
We’re joined by Maluta Netshaulu, Head of Social Impact Portfolio Development at Nedbank, a leading advocate for South Africa’s green economy and inclusive growth. Following the launch of Nedbank’s Fashion & Clothing Market Access Accelerator in partnership with Fetola at All Fashion Sourcing Summit that happened in Cape Town this week. He will be providing us with some insights on how investing in entrepreneurs within the textile and manufacturing market can drive sustainable livelihoods, create jobs, strengthen local manufacturing and build a more resilient, circular economy. Stay tuned for this conversation next.
AARTO in the Dock: Is Government Rushing Road Traffic Reform Without Legal Safeguards?
The implementation of the second phase of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, better known as AARTO, is facing a significant legal challenge. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, or OUTA, has approached the High Court on an urgent basis, asking that the rollout be suspended until government complies with what it says are essential constitutional and legal requirements. At the heart of the dispute is whether motorists are being subjected to a new enforcement regime without the protections Parliament intended them to have. OUTA argues that government has effectively switched on penalties before putting in place key safeguards, including an Independent Appeals Tribunal that would allow motorists to challenge administrative decisions. The organisation insists this is not an attempt to shield reckless drivers from accountability, but rather a fight to ensure that the rule of law applies equally to government itself. So, is this a necessary intervention to protect the rights of ordinary South Africans, or could it delay much-needed reforms aimed at improving road safety and reducing lawlessness on our roads?
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Left Behind: The Hidden Struggles of Widowhood in South Africa
When a spouse dies, the funeral eventually comes to an end, the mourners go home, and life appears to move on. But for thousands of widows across South Africa, that's when the real battle begins. Overnight, many women are forced to become the sole providers, caregivers and emotional anchors for families shattered by loss. They are left to comfort children who desperately miss their father, while trying to process a grief so overwhelming that it often becomes a daily struggle just to get out of bed. At the same time, many widows are expected to navigate complicated relationships with in-laws, who in some cases dispute inheritances, lay claim to property, or even force women from the homes they shared with their husbands. Instead of receiving compassion and support, many find themselves isolated, financially vulnerable and fighting simply to survive.
Opposition Parties Oppose Ramaphosa's Bid to Halt the Phala Phala Impeachment Process.
President Cyril Ramaphosa's bid to halt Parliament's impeachment inquiry over the Phala Phala scandal has taken a dramatic turn after a Western Cape High Court judge questioned whether being subjected to an impeachment inquiry would amount to & public humiliation & During proceedings, Judge Matthew Francis drew a comparison with former President Nelson Mandela, who appeared in court and testified in the landmark SARFU case,asking, Mandela went into the witness box, it did not bring the house down. Why would it be different for President Ramaphosa? The exchange came after Ramaphosa's legal team argued that allowing the Section 89 inquiry to proceed before his review application is heard would cause him irreparable reputational harm and subject him to unnecessary public humiliation.
Omotoso Case Back on the Table: Has the NPA Been Given a Second Chance at Justice?
In a major development in one of South Africa's most closely watched criminal cases, the Supreme Court of Appeal has granted the National Prosecuting Authority leave to appeal the acquittal of Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused. The decision effectively revives a case that many believed had reached its conclusion after the Gqeberha High Court acquitted the trio of dozens of charges, including rape, human trafficking, sexual assault and racketeering. The NPA has consistently argued that the trial court made significant errors in law and says the appeal is not about retrying facts but ensuring that the law was correctly applied.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Online Grooming of Children: Are We Doing Enough to Keep Kids Safe?
As children spend more time online for school, entertainment and socialising, the internet has become an essential part of everyday life. But alongside the opportunities it offers comes a growing danger that many families underestimate—online grooming. Predators are increasingly using social media, gaming platforms and messaging apps to build trust with children before manipulating or exploiting them. Often, these interactions happen in secret, making them difficult for parents to detect until it's too late. Tonight, we unpack the reality of online grooming, how offenders target vulnerable children, the warning signs every parent should know, and why open conversations, digital supervision and parental involvement are among the strongest tools to protect children in an increasingly connect world.
One Sick Note After Another – Is the Madlanga Commission Being Delayed by a Pattern of Medical Absences?
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is facing an unexpected obstacle in its pursuit of answers—not legal arguments or procedural challenges, but a growing number of witnesses who are unable to testify because of illness. Over the past few weeks, several key figures expected to appear before the commission have submitted medical certificates at the last minute, raising concerns about whether these are genuine coincidences or part of a worrying trend that is slowing the commission's work. Among those who have failed to appear are Medicare24 CEO Mike van Wyk, North West businessman Suliman Carrim and, most recently, the head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, Advocate Andrea Johnson. Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga has openly expressed frustration, even describing one medical certificate as "useless" because it provided virtually no meaningful information about the witness's condition or ability to testify.
South Africa on High Alert as Government Screens for Ebola at Ports of Entry ( Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi )
South Africa is stepping up its health security measures as authorities prepare for the possibility of the deadly Ebola virus reaching the country. Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says while there are currently no reported Ebola cases in South Africa, government is taking no chances following an outbreak in Uganda. Screening and surveillance measures have been intensified at airports, border posts and other ports of entry, with trained health officials using thermal scanners and symptom assessments to identify possible cases before travellers enter the country. The minister says the country's response is based on scientific risk assessments rather than fear, warning that in an interconnected world, infectious diseases can spread rapidly across borders. This raises important questions about South Africa's readiness to respond to another public health threat. What lessons have been learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic and previous Ebola outbreaks? Are border screening measures enough to prevent the virus from entering the country? And how prepared are hospitals and healthcare workers should a suspected case be detected?
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Former Model C Admissions Shake-Up: Can Equity and School Autonomy Co-Exist?
The Department of Basic Education has proposed significant changes to admissions policies at former Model C schools, aiming to prohibit schools from considering factors such as parents' employment status, household income, learners' academic performance, sporting achievements, and leadership roles when admitting pupils. Supporters argue the reforms will create a more equitable admissions system and improve access to quality education, while critics warn they could erode the autonomy of school governing bodies and threaten the sustainability of fee-paying public schools. Discussion Points: The legal implications of the proposed admissions policy changes. The impact on the powers and autonomy of School Governing Bodies (SGBs). Whether the proposals will genuinely improve equitable access to quality education. The potential financial and operational consequences for former Model C schools. What the proposed changes could mean for parents and learners applying to these schools. How to balance transformation, fairness, and the right of schools to manage their own admissions policies.
Plea Deal Collapses: What Next in the R228 Million SAPS Tender Corruption Case?
For months, alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala appeared to have reached a deal with the state over the controversial R228-million South African Police Service tender awarded to his company, Medicare24. After pleading guilty to fraud, corruption and money laundering charges, prosecutors proposed an eight-year prison sentence as part of a plea agreement. But in a dramatic twist, the court indicated that the sentence was too lenient, suggesting that a 12-year prison term would be more appropriate. Matlala has now withdrawn from that agreement altogether, setting the stage for what could become a lengthy trial. The development raises important questions about plea bargains in high-profile corruption cases, judicial oversight, and whether the criminal justice system is sending a stronger message in the fight against corruption. We unpack the latest developments.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: MALE INFERTILITY - BREAKING THE SILENCE
Infertility is still too often framed as a woman’s problem. It is not. Male factor infertility accounts for approximately 40% of South African couples struggling to conceive, according to data from Wijnland Fertility (2024). When combined cases are included where both partners contribute to the difficulty,the male factor is involved in the majority of infertility presentations. For many men, an infertility diagnosis can affect far more than just their ability to have children, it can impact their confidence, relationships, mental health, and even their sense of identity. It also affects partners and families, who often navigate the emotional, financial, and social pressures together. So, how can couples support each other through this journey, and what role can families play in creating a more understanding and less judgmental environment? We’re unpacking the medical facts, the emotional impact, and the importance of support when it comes to male infertility.
Zimbabwe Extends Mnangagwa's Rule to 2030 Amid Democracy Concerns
Zimbabwe has entered a new political chapter after President Emmerson Mnangagwa signed constitutional changes that will keep him in office until 2030, extending his presidency by two years beyond the previous constitutional limit. The legislation, approved by Parliament last month, also introduces a controversial provision that would allow future presidents to be elected by lawmakers instead of directly by Zimbabwean voters. Supporters argue the reforms will provide continuity and stability, but critics warn they represent a significant erosion of democratic principles, further concentrating power in the executive and weakening constitutional safeguards. The move is expected to intensify political tensions ahead of Zimbabwe's next electoral cycle and reignite debate about the future of democracy in the country. Takudzwa Chihambakwe - Freelance Journalist Prof Christopher Afoke Isike- Professor Of African Politics And International Relations In The Department Of Political Sciences, University Of Pretoria
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Little People - Big World: Living with Dwarfism
For many South Africans living with dwarfism, the biggest challenge isn’t their height—it’s society’s perception of them. Every day, they navigate a world filled with myths, stereotypes, unsolicited comments, and discrimination. From being treated like children to being stared at in public or overlooked for employment opportunities, many say the emotional burden can be far greater than the physical one. Tonight, we’re shining a light on what life is really like for people living with dwarfism, the barriers they face, and why awareness, dignity, and inclusion matter more than ever.
Treasury Cracks Down on Failing Municipalities ( JOHANNESBUR G MAYOR DADA MORERO )
More than 60 municipalities across South Africa are waking up to a financial shock after the National Treasury froze their July grant allocations over failures in financial management and governance. Treasury says the move is designed to protect public funds and force municipalities to comply with the law, insisting the withholding of funds is temporary and can be reversed if councils address issues such as irregular expenditure, poor financial controls and weak accountability. But the decision comes at a time when many municipalities are already struggling with mounting debt, collapsing infrastructure and deteriorating service delivery. In Gauteng, the move raises fresh questions about whether the country's economic hub, the City of Johannesburg, is doing enough to safeguard its own finances and avoid a similar fate. Joining us now is Johannesburg Executive Mayor Dada Morero.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: The South African Human Rights Commission's National Food Inquiry
There is yet another commission taking place—this time, one that affects you and your pocket directly. The South African Human Rights Commission has launched an inquiry into the country’s food system, asking why millions of South Africans continue to go hungry and struggle to afford nutritious food despite the country producing enough food to feed its population. The hearings will examine the rising cost of food, market concentration, food insecurity, and the role of government, retailers and food producers in ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food. The Commission says the inquiry will help identify practical solutions to strengthen food security and protect every South African’s constitutional right to sufficient food. Tonight, we unpack what this inquiry means for consumers, whether it can lead to meaningful change, and what needs to happen to make healthy food more affordable and accessible.
Madlanga Commission: Will Julius Malema Be Called to Answer Questions? ( SETHUGELO MATEBESI - PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FREE STATE )
Fresh questions are emerging over whether Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema could soon be called to testify before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, after explosive WhatsApp messages were presented linking him to suspended Crime Intelligence boss Feroz Khan. The Commission heard evidence suggesting Malema acted as an intermediary between Khan and businessman Mohammed Sayed, allegedly receiving confidential police information and parliamentary questions that investigators say may have been designed to influence oversight processes. While Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels says no decision has yet been made on whether Malema will be summoned, the revelations have intensified scrutiny over the EFF leader's relationship with Khan. Malema has consistently defended his interactions with Khan, maintaining they formed part of his constitutional duties as a Member of Parliament. But critics argue the latest evidence raises serious questions about whether those engagements crossed the line between legitimate parliamentary oversight and improper influence.
Lifestyle Audits: Can They Clean Up Government? ( Head of Public Administration Ethics, Integrity and Disciplinary Technical Assistance, Salomon Hoogenraad-Ver maak )
For years, South Africans have watched corruption scandals unfold, often asking the same question: how did public officials accumulate wealth that appears far beyond their salaries? Government believes lifestyle audits are part of the answer. The programme, now being rolled out across at least seven of South Africa's nine provinces, is designed to detect unexplained wealth, strengthen accountability and restore integrity in the public service. But as the audits expand to cover thousands of public servants, questions remain about whether they are truly exposing corruption or simply creating another layer of bureaucracy. Tonight, we unpack the progress, the challenges and whether lifestyle audits can become a meaningful weapon in the fight against corruption.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Tsietsi Mashinini: The Forgotten Faces of the Struggle and the Politics of Memory
Tonight we look at the legacy of Tsietsi Mashinini like never before. Known as one of the leading voices of the June 16 Soweto Uprising, Mashinini became a symbol of youth resistance and courage during one of the most defining moments in South Africa’s history. But beyond the iconic images and commemorations lies a bigger question: What happened to the stories and legacies of many struggle stalwarts who helped shape the country’s freedom? As journalist, writer and publisher Sam Mathe explores Mashinini’s life in his latest book, we also examine whether South Africa has done enough to honour and preserve the memories of those who fought for liberation, and whether some heroes of the struggle have slowly been pushed to the margins of the nation’s memory.
R116 Million School Project Under Scrutiny: Questions Over Alleged R15 Million in Payments for Missing Work ( SUNDAY TIMES JOURNALIST MDUDUZI NONYANE )
A school project meant to bring opportunity and hope to learners in Soshanguve is now facing serious allegations of financial irregularities. Questions are being raised around a R116 million school development project after claims emerged that more than R15 million may have been paid for construction work that allegedly never existed on the ground. Reports suggest certain structures and completed work may have been signed off and paid for despite concerns over whether they were ever built, sparking fresh concerns over oversight, accountability and the management of public funds. Now attention is turning to who approved the payments, who inspected the work and whether taxpayers and learners have ultimately been left paying the price.
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