listen to METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
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.
DA Under Pressure: Msimanga Rejects Lobbying Allegations Linked to Tony Leon’s Firm ( DA’S SOLLY MSIMANGA )
Questions around influence, lobbying and political accountability continue to place the Democratic Alliance under scrutiny. Former Tshwane mayor and DA federal chairperson Solly Msimanga is now firmly pushing back against allegations that he was pressured into meeting clients linked to Tony Leon’s public affairs company, Resolve Communications. The claims surfaced amid growing controversy following remarks by former DA leader John Steenhuisen, who said he felt uncomfortable with meetings arranged by Leon’s firm on behalf of its clients. Msimanga says no such meetings ever took place and insists the allegations can easily be tested against official city records and diaries. As the debate intensifies, attention is now shifting beyond the allegations themselves to what impact they could have on the DA’s image and whether an internal investigation may follow.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Sacred Waters, Silent Tragedies
For many believers around the world, baptism is far more than a religious ceremony. It is seen as a sacred crossing point — a moment of cleansing, surrender and spiritual rebirth. Across generations, rivers, streams, dams and open waters have become places where people gather to publicly affirm their faith and begin what they believe is a new journey with God. These ceremonies often bring together entire families and communities to witness deeply personal moments of transformation and hope. But while these waters carry profound spiritual meaning, they have also become associated with a growing number of tragedies that leave families shattered and communities searching for answers. Over the years, South Africa and several other countries have seen repeated incidents where worshippers have drowned or lost their lives during baptism ceremonies. In some cases, dangerous currents, rising water levels and flash floods have turned moments of celebration into scenes of devastation. In others, questions have emerged around planning, safety measures and whether enough awareness exists about the risks associated with natural water environments. Tonight, we broaden the conversation beyond a single tragedy and ask difficult questions around faith, responsibility and prevention. Can these sacred practices continue in the way they always have? Should there be stronger safety measures in place? And perhaps most importantly, can faith and safety coexist without one undermining the other?
Tafelberg Judgment: A Turning Point for Housing Justice in Cape Town
For decades after the end of apartheid, South Africa’s cities have continued to carry the scars of spatial inequality — where where you live often determines the opportunities you can access, the schools your children attend, and even the cost and time of getting to work. Now, in what has become one of the country’s most significant housing rights battles, the Constitutional Court has delivered a landmark judgment on the controversial sale of the former Tafelberg school site in Sea Point. The court has ruled that the sale was unlawful, finding that both the Western Cape government and the City of Cape Town failed to adequately consider affordable housing in well-located areas. Although the property sale itself was cancelled years ago, the broader questions remain: who gets to live in South Africa’s cities, and who continues to be pushed further away from economic opportunities? Tonight, we unpack the significance of this ruling, its impact on future housing policy, and whether this could reshape the ongoing struggle against apartheid-era spatial planning.
Starlink, Lobbying and Questions of Influence: Is South Africa Facing Another Transparency Test?
Questions around political influence, lobbying and access to power are once again taking centre stage following allegations involving government ministers, a prominent public affairs firm and one of the world's most talked-about technology companies. Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies chairperson, Khusela Sangoni-Diko, is now demanding answers from communications minister Solly Malatsi over claims that representatives linked to Starlink sought access to government through politically connected channels. The controversy emerged after former DA leader John Steenhuisen alleged that a public affairs firm linked to former DA leader Tony Leon attempted to facilitate meetings between ministers and private clients, including Starlink representatives. While the claims have been strongly denied, the allegations have reignited concerns around transparency, accountability and whether private interests may be exerting influence over public decision-making. Tonight, we unpack the allegations, the denials and whether this represents routine lobbying or raises deeper questions about how business gains access to political power.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: The Financial Legacy You Leave Behind Will Your Children Inherit Wealth or Financial Problems?
Every parent hopes to leave something meaningful behind for their children, whether it’s a home, savings, investments or simply financial security. But what happens if someone passes away with outstanding debt? How does that affect the estate and the inheritance their loved ones were expecting? And perhaps more importantly, how can you start planning now to make sure you’re leaving behind a legacy rather than financial complications? From managing debt to building wealth and planning your estate properly, what does it take to get it right? Today we’re joined by a financial planner and a debt expert to help us understand how to protect your loved ones and leave behind the best possible financial legacy.
Ramaphosa Announces Cabinet Reshuffle
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a Cabinet reshuffle, making several changes requested by the Democratic Alliance (DA) as part of the Government of National Unity. Key appointments include: ● Willem Aucamp as Minister of Agriculture. ● David Maynier as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. ● John Steenhuisen as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition. ● Alexandra Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy. ● Jack Bloom as Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation. ● Yusuf Cassim as Deputy Minister of Higher Education. Ramaphosa also appointed Dina Pule as Minister of Social Development, filling the vacancy left after Sisisi Tolashe was dismissed in May. Pule's appointment is controversial because she was dismissed as Communications Minister in 2013 after investigations found she had acted unethically. Former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela found that Pule had lied to Parliament and violated the Executive Members' Ethics Code over her relationship with a businessman who benefited from his association with her. She was reprimanded, suspended by Parliament, and removed from Cabinet by former President Jacob Zuma. After returning to Parliament as an ANC MP following the 2024 elections, Pule has now been reinstated to Cabinet. Ramaphosa wished all the new ministers and deputy ministers well in their new roles. We break down his decision.
City Power consumers face 8.63% electricity hike as new tariffs kick in
City Power consumers will have to dig deep in their pockets as sharp price hikes kick in.It follows NERSA's approval of an 8.76 percent annual tariff increase for Eskom for 2026/27.But the power utility says it's adjusting its tariffs for the year to 8.63 percent lower than NERSA and Eskom to help cushion customers against rising electricity costs.NERSA has approved 176 municipal and local authority tariff hike applications for the 2026/27 financial year. What does this mean for South Africa’s economy and energy system?
Court Rejects Proposed Sentence in Cat Matlala Plea Deal
The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court rejected a plea agreement that would have allowed businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala to serve an effective eight-year prison sentence for fraud, corruption and money laundering linked to a R228 million SAPS tender.Magistrate Ignatius du Preez ruled that the proposed sentence was too lenient and did not adequately reflect the seriousness of Matlala's crimes. While acknowledging Matlala's cooperation with investigators, the court found that it did not demonstrate genuine remorse and should not justify a reduced sentence. The magistrate also stressed that investigating and prosecuting corruption is the responsibility of the SAPS and the NPA, not the accused.Instead, Du Preez suggested a sentence that would result in an effective 12 years' imprisonment, including: -15 years for fraud, with seven years suspended under strict conditions. -10 years each for corruption and money laundering, with most of those sentences running concurrently.The matter has been postponed to 13 July to allow the State and Matlala to negotiate a revised plea agreement based on the court's guidance. We understand this better with a legal expert.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Is South Africa truly more accepting of the LGBTIQ community, or just more polite about it?
Twenty years after South Africa became one of the first countries in the world to legalise same-sex marriage, a new study suggests the country may be changing in ways many did not expect. While public attitudes toward LGBTI people appear to be becoming more accepting, the picture is far more complex than a simple story of progress. The latest research from the Other Foundation and the Human Sciences Research Council shows that more South Africans now support equal rights and say their own views have shifted over time. Yet questions around family acceptance, religion, culture and everyday inclusion remain deeply contested. So what has changed over the last decade, what is driving these shifts, and are constitutional protections translating into real experiences for people on the ground? Tonight, we unpack the numbers and the stories behind them with voices from the Other Foundation and organisations working directly within these communities.
Anti-immigration protests - Voices from the streets
As South Africa reaches the end of a highly charged and tense day, questions are now emerging not only about immigration, but about the state of the country itself. Today, thousands of people across various parts of South Africa took to the streets as anti-illegal immigration groups coordinated nationwide demonstrations, calling for stricter immigration enforcement and the deportation of undocumented migrants. While organisers insisted the protests were aimed at government policy and border control, in several areas the day took on a far more volatile character, with reports of homes being entered, foreign nationals being targeted, sporadic violence breaking out and police being forced to intervene. In places such as Germiston and Alexandra, tensions escalated as community members moved through neighbourhoods searching for foreign nationals, while in Cape Town authorities moved swiftly to contain opportunistic criminal activity. Police had warned beforehand that they would have a strong presence on the ground and that any criminality or vigilantism would not be tolerated. Tonight we speak to activists, organisers and ordinary South Africans from different corners of the country to understand what unfolded, what people were demanding and whether today's events signal a deeper frustration over unemployment, crime and governance, or something far more dangerous developing beneath the surface.
From Steenhuisen to Mashaba: Questions Around Internal DA Battles ( ACTION SA LEADER HERMAN MASHABA )
Former DA leader and outgoing Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has levelled explosive allegations against his own party, accusing Resolve Communications — a public relations firm chaired by former DA leader Tony Leon — of driving a sustained campaign against both him and his chief of staff. Steenhuisen claims powerful figures within the party worked to shape public narratives against him amid mounting pressure over his future and internal tensions within the Democratic Alliance. The claims have reignited questions around power dynamics within the DA and whether political figures have previously found themselves isolated or pushed out through similar circumstances. We’ll be unpacking these allegations with former DA member and ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, who has previously spoken about his own experiences within the party. Speculation and allegations have also surfaced around whether similar tactics may have played a role during his departure from the DA, and we’ll be getting his perspective on the claims now emerging from Steenhuisen.
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