listen to METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Why Are More Young Girls and Young Women Turning to Alcohol?
A recent University of Cape Town study has raised concerns about increasing alcohol consumption among adolescent girls and young women in South Africa. While alcohol abuse has traditionally been associated with men, experts say changing social norms, peer pressure, mental health challenges, social media influence, unemployment and exposure to trauma may be driving more young females towards drinking. What is behind this trend, and what are the long-term consequences for young women's health, safety and future opportunities? Tonight, we unpack the social, economic and psychological factors contributing to alcohol use among girls and young women, and explore what families, schools, communities and policymakers can do to address the problem before it becomes a bigger public health crisis.
Human Trafficking in Gauteng: Are We Doing Enough to Protect the Human Vulnerable?
Human trafficking has been described as one of the fastest-growing and most profitable crimes in the world, yet many victims remain hidden in plain sight. The Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has warned that trafficking in persons is not merely a law enforcement issue but a direct assault on human dignity and fundamental human rights. Speaking at the Gauteng Dialogue on Trafficking in Persons, the MEC called for stronger action to identify victims, improve support services, tackle online recruitment by traffickers, and address the poverty and inequality that leave many vulnerable to exploitation. She says government and society must move beyond awareness campaigns and focus on prevention, protection and coordinated action against trafficking networks.
Cleveland Massacre: Is Illegal Mining Fueling a Deadly War in Gauteng?
Twelve people dead. Ten others wounded. And a community left traumatised after one of the deadliest mass shootings Gauteng has witnessed in recent years. Residents of the Jumpers informal settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg, say heavily armed gunmen stormed the area on Tuesday night and opened fire indiscriminately for more than an hour. As police launch a nationwide manhunt and deploy specialised investigative units, attention is increasingly turning to the shadowy world of illegal mining. While SAPS says it is too early to definitively link the massacre to zama zama activity, community leaders, residents and political parties argue that violent battles between rival illegal mining syndicates have turned parts of Cleveland into a war zone. Tonight, we ask: Is illegal mining now one of the greatest threats to community safety in Gauteng, and what must be done to stop these criminal syndicates before more innocent lives are lost
AFTER IS AFTER 8: CCTV in Classrooms: Protecting Learners or Policing Teachers?
Incidents of bullying, classroom violence, learner misconduct, and even allegations of corporal punishment continue to raise concerns about safety in South African schools. In response, some have suggested that CCTV cameras be installed inside classrooms to provide accountability, protect both learners and teachers, and offer evidence when disputes arise. Supporters argue that cameras could deter bad behaviour and help create safer learning environments. But not everyone agrees. Many teachers and unions argue that constant surveillance could undermine trust, violate privacy, and create a culture where educators feel monitored rather than supported. Would CCTV cameras make classrooms safer, or would they turn schools into surveillance zones that damage the relationship between teachers and learners? BASIL MANUEL - NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL TEACHERS’ ORGANISATION OF SOUTH AFRICA. LERATO LUFUNO MONGUNI - PRESIDENT OF SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIETY OF HISTORY TEACHING (SASHT).
South Africa’s Economy Grows Again — But Is the Recovery Reaching Ordinary Citizens? ( Isaac Khambule is a professor of political economy at the University of Johannesburg )
For years, South Africans have grown accustomed to headlines about economic stagnation, unemployment, load shedding and shrinking opportunities. Yet the latest figures from Statistics South Africa offer a glimmer of hope. The economy expanded by 0.5% in the first quarter of 2026, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of growth and suggesting that, despite significant challenges, South Africa may be finding its footing. Strong performances in finance, agriculture, trade and transport helped drive the expansion, demonstrating resilience in sectors that continue to keep the economy moving forward. But while economists may welcome the numbers, many South Africans are asking a different question: if the economy is growing, why does daily life still feel so difficult? Unemployment remains stubbornly high, the cost of living continues to squeeze households, and many communities are yet to experience tangible benefits from economic growth. Tonight, we unpack what these GDP figures really mean. Is South Africa finally turning a corner, or are the gains too modest to make a meaningful difference in people's lives? And how do we ensure that economic growth translates into jobs, investment and improved living standards for all?
Private Jets, Public Money: Is State Capture Still Alive in Local Government? ( SUNDAY TIMES SENIOR INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALIST: SIPHO MASANGO )
When the findings of the State Capture Inquiry were released, South Africans hoped the era of politically connected individuals receiving lavish benefits from companies seeking government contracts was behind us. The commission laid bare a pattern of corruption in which private businesses allegedly cultivated relationships with public officials through gifts, luxury travel, accommodation and other perks, often in exchange for access and influence over lucrative state tenders. It was a blueprint that cost the country billions and eroded public trust in government institutions. Now, a new controversy has reignited those concerns. Criminal charges have been laid against former City of Ekurhulenicity manager Dr Imogen Mashazi following allegations that IT company XET Solutions funded a R3.35 million private jet trip to London during her tenure. The trip is reportedly linked to municipal contracts awarded to the company, raising uncomfortable questions about whether South Africa is witnessing a repeat of the very practices exposed by the Zondo Commission. Tonight, we ask whether enough has been done to reform public procurement, and whether local government remains vulnerable to the same corruption networks that defined the state capture era.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: “Is South Africa Really a Failed State or Have We Become Our Own Worst Critics?”
South Africans have every reason to be frustrated. We have endured rolling power cuts, rising unemployment, corruption scandals, failing infrastructure, water shortages, and persistent crime. In many communities, promises made by leaders have not translated into meaningful change on the ground. It is therefore understandable that public trust in government institutions has declined and that criticism has become a regular part of our national conversation. But tonight, we want to ask a difficult question: can a nation become so focused on its failures that it loses sight of its successes? From social media posts declaring South Africa a "failed state" to everyday conversations predicting doom, have we become our own harshest critics? While holding government accountable is a cornerstone of democracy, are we also unintentionally damaging investor confidence, discouraging tourism, and reinforcing a global perception that South Africa is beyond repair? How do we balance legitimate criticism with an honest recognition of the progress that has been made since 1994? And what does this constant negativity say about how we see ourselves as South Africans?
Ramaphosa's Immigration Crackdown: Restoring Order or Fueling a Divided Nation?
Last night, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed a nation gripped by growing tensions over illegal immigration, rising unemployment and fears of escalating anti-foreigner violence. In a highly anticipated address, the president unveiled a sweeping five-point plan aimed at tightening immigration controls, strengthening border security, combating corruption within the immigration system and cracking down on employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers. He also announced plans for specialised immigration courts, stricter penalties for offenders and the creation of a comprehensive biometric register for every person living in South Africa. But while many South Africans have welcomed the government's acknowledgement of a problem they believe has been ignored for too long, others are questioning whether these measures go far enough—or whether they risk inflaming tensions at a time when migrants are already fleeing communities amid threats and intimidation. The president was equally firm in warning citizens against taking the law into their own hands, insisting that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of the state. Tonight, we unpack what this five-point plan means in practice, whether it can address public concerns around jobs and service delivery, and whether South Africa can tackle illegal immigration without sliding into xenophobia and social division.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Love and Business – Can Couples Really Have It All?
Many married couples dream of building a life together, and for some, that dream extends beyond the home and into the boardroom. Working together in business can create a strong partnership built on trust, shared goals and mutual understanding. However, it can also blur the lines between professional and personal life, making it difficult to separate business challenges from the relationship itself. When financial pressures, disagreements over strategy, long working hours and the demands of running a business enter the picture, how do couples ensure that their marriage does not become another casualty of entrepreneurial stress? Tonight, we explore how married couples navigate the highs and lows of business together, maintain healthy boundaries, resolve conflict constructively and protect their relationship while pursuing shared success.
Madlanga Commission: Senior Hawks Officer Admits Evidence Protocol Failures in R200 Million Drug Case
The spotlight remains firmly on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where troubling revelations continue to emerge about the handling of a drug consignment worth an estimated R200 million. Today, Lieutenant Colonel Gavin Jacob, the Unit Commander of the Durban Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, conceded that he did not fully comply with prescribed procedures when drugs seized at Durban Harbour were removed and stored. His testimony has raised serious questions about accountability, chain-of-custody procedures, and how such a significant quantity of evidence could later disappear. As the commission investigates the circumstances surrounding the missing drugs, many South Africans will be asking whether critical failures within law enforcement opened the door to one of the country's most concerning evidence-handling scandals.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: The Ashwagandha Boom: Miracle Herb or Wellness Trend?
From health shops and pharmacies to TikTok and gym locker rooms, one herbal supplement seems to be everywhere: ashwagandha. Once largely associated with traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the ancient herb has become one of South Africa's fastest-growing wellness trends. Supporters claim it helps reduce stress, improve sleep, boost energy levels, enhance gym performance and even increase testosterone. At a time when many South Africans are dealing with anxiety, burnout and financial pressure, it's not surprising that more people are looking for natural ways to cope. But as demand grows, so do questions about safety. Is ashwagandha really the stress-busting super herb it's marketed to be, or are consumers getting ahead of the science? Tonight, we unpack why South Africans are embracing ashwagandha, what the research actually says, and whether there are risks people should know about before adding it to their daily routine.
Johannesburg's Financial Crisis: Is the City Broke or Are Residents Not Paying? ( SCOPA CHAIRPERSON SONGEZO ZIBI )
South Africa's economic powerhouse is facing uncomfortable questions about its financial health. The City of Johannesburg has long battled service delivery failures, aging infrastructure, water shortages and deteriorating roads, but according to Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts Chairperson, Songezo Zibi, the city's biggest problem may not be how much money it owes—it's how much money residents owe the city. The Auditor-General has painted a troubling picture of a municipality operating on what have been described as false assurances about its finances, while critical infrastructure projects have reportedly been delayed because of cash-flow constraints. So how does a city with one of the country's largest revenue bases find itself struggling to deliver basic services? Is the issue poor financial management, a culture of non-payment, or a combination of both? And what does this mean for the future of Johannesburg and other municipalities facing similar challenges across South Africa?
Petrol Pain, Diesel Relief ( MAMETLWE SEBEI - LECTURER IN THE COLLEGE OF LAW - UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA )
For millions of South Africans, the fuel price is more than just a number on a forecourt board — it determines how much it costs to get to work, transport goods, put food on shelves and keep businesses running. As June begins, motorists are facing a mixed bag. Petrol users are set to feel the pinch with a significant increase at the pumps, while diesel consumers will benefit from a substantial price cut. The latest adjustments announced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources paint a picture of how global events, from tensions between the United States and Iran to disruptions along one of the world's busiest oil routes, continue to have a direct impact on the pockets of ordinary South Africans. Tonight, we unpack what is driving these changes and what they could mean for inflation, transport costs and household budgets.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Is Therapy Failing Men?
Men are far less likely than women to seek professional help for mental health challenges, and when they do, many don’t stay in therapy for long. Some argue that traditional therapy was designed around communication styles and emotional expression that resonate more with women than with men. Others say the problem isn’t therapy itself, but the stigma that still surrounds men asking for help. So, is modern therapy meeting men where they are, or are men being left behind in the mental health conversation? We unpack the debate. Sabelo Melizwe Gumede - CEO Cloud therapist, Psychologist AmaZulu FC, SASCOC Committee Member Psychology of Performance, Board Chair Weskoppies Hospital.. BOINETTE SELOKELA - Social worker at Mental Health Organisation
Phala Phala Probe Back in Focus ( MAGASHUKE GANA - PHALA PHALA IMPEACHMENT COMMITTEE CHAIR )
The political battle over the Phala Phala saga has entered a new chapter. Rise Mzansi’s Makashule Gana has been elected chairperson of Parliament’s newly established Phala Phala Impeachment Committee, defeating ATM MP Dr Wonderboy Mahlatsi in a closely watched vote. The committee has been tasked with revisiting allegations linked to the theft of more than $580,000 from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala game farm and determining whether there are sufficient grounds to recommend his removal from office. With political parties divided on Gana’s appointment and the committee now officially constituted, questions are being raised about what this process means for accountability, Parliament’s oversight role, and the president’s political future.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: NEARLY HALF OF SOUTH AFRICAN CHILDREN LIVE WITH THEIR MOTHERS ONLY
South Africa's latest General Household Survey has once again highlighted a striking reality about family life in the country. According to Statistics South Africa, nearly 46% of children live in households with their mothers only. For many, this raises difficult questions about the role of fathers, the pressures facing families, and the impact that economic hardship, migration, and unemployment continue to have on households. While some see the figures as evidence of a growing fatherhood crisis, others argue they reflect broader social and economic challenges that have shaped South African families for generations. What does it mean for children to grow up without both parents in the same household? How does it affect their emotional wellbeing, sense of identity, and future opportunities? And what responsibility do men, communities, and society as a whole have in changing this picture? Tonight, we unpack what these statistics tell us about modern family life in South Africa and ask whether the country is doing enough to support fathers, mothers, and children alike.
GAUTENG'S NEW NGO FUNDING RULES AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT SECTOR
A recent policy shift by the Gauteng Department of Social Development has introduced new funding rules for non-profit organisations in the province. Under the updated clauses, provincial grants may no longer be used to pay non-South African staff unless they are classified as scarce skills, and certain leadership roles in funded organisations are now required to be held by South African citizens. The department says the changes are intended to prioritise employment for qualified South African social workers and align funding with national skills and labour considerations. It also points to a significant number of unemployed social work graduates in the province. However, the new rules have raised questions within the non-profit sector about how they will affect staffing, service delivery, and the continuity of care for vulnerable communities who rely on these organisations. At the centre of the discussion is a broader policy question: how should government balance employment priorities with the operational realities of organisations delivering frontline social services? Tonight, we unpack the implications of Gauteng’s new NGO funding rules and what they could mean for the sector going forward.
HOW SAFE ARE ACTIVISTS WHO SPEAK OUT AND ORGANISE WITHIN THEIR COMMUNITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA TODAY? ( GIFT SIKISI MASHABA - Solidarity Action Committee Collective )
A leading community activist and member of the Solidarity Action Committee Collective, Mokoena Letsie, has been killed in what authorities are investigating as a targeted shooting in Potchefstroom in the North West. According to reports, the activist was shot multiple times, and the circumstances surrounding the killing are now part of an active police investigation. The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of outspoken activists in South Africa, with civil society groups pointing to a broader pattern of threats, intimidation, and violent attacks against community organisers in recent years. Another recent activist killing has also added to growing alarm about the risks faced by individuals involved in grassroots mobilisation and political or social advocacy. As investigations continue, questions are being raised about what protection exists for activists on the ground, and whether enough is being done to prevent politically or socially motivated violence. Tonight, we look at this case as it stands, and ask: how safe are activists who speak out and organise within their communities in South Africa today?
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Armed And Unafraid? Women in South Africa arming themselves for protection
South Africa’s violent crime crisis is changing the way many women think about safety, survival and self-defence. From kidnappings and home invasions to gender-based violence and violent robberies, fear has become part of daily life for many South Africans — and increasingly, women are deciding they do not want to feel helpless anymore. For some, that means learning self-defence. For others, it means firearm training and legal gun ownership. Tonight we explore the growing number of women taking an active role in their own protection, and the difficult questions that come with it. Is firearm ownership becoming a form of empowerment for women in a country battling extreme violence? Or does putting more guns into civilian hands create even greater risks? We’ll also speak to GOSA Girls on Fire, a women’s empowerment initiative focused on turning victims into victors through practical skills, situational awareness and confidence-building. In a country where many women feel unsafe almost everywhere they go, what does true empowerment actually look like?
COMMUNITY RADIO AWARDS ( MOTSEKI MANNUYA FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE AWARDS )
Community radio has long been the soundtrack of everyday South African life — from township streets to rural villages, from local debates to breaking news that matters directly to communities. And now, the sector’s biggest voices, storytellers and behind-the-scenes champions are preparing for one of the industry’s biggest nights: the 2nd Annual Community Radio Awards. Returning after a successful debut in 2025, this year’s awards carry the theme “Lights, Camera, Radio!” — celebrating the growth, creativity and resilience of community broadcasting in an increasingly competitive media landscape. Organized by Boitumelo Media Group, the awards aim to honour the stations and individuals who continue to inform, educate and empower millions of listeners across the country. From presenters and producers to technical teams and current affairs programmes, the awards are shining a spotlight on the people who keep grassroots radio alive. Tonight we look at why community radio still matters in South Africa, and whether the industry is finally getting the recognition it deserves.
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