Shows / The Daily Discourse
The Daily Discourse
Newsmakers and Guest Experts offer their insights and perspectives into the national and global discourse on politics, economics, education, social matters and comprehensive dialogues on cultural diversity and other essential issues of public interest like, poverty alleviation, unemployment rate and health related issues.
Episodes
- The Daily Discourse
We unpack the Predictor Model results vs current results
Guest: Dr. Ronesh Dhawraj is the SABC News Head of Research and Mahlatse Mbooi: Senior Data Scientist and Senior Researcher at the CSIR
- The Daily Discourse
Climate change is often discussed in terms of devastating floods, fires and extreme weather. But what happens when disaster strikes at community level, destroying homes, threatening lives and placing enormous pressure on municipalities? As freak weather events become more frequent, are our local authorities equipped to respond? And what role should communities play?
We unpack this with Noxolo Mfocwa, Advocacy Lead at My Vote Counts.
- The Daily Discourse
Did you catch yesterday’s NATJOINTS briefing? Authorities revealed that 21 politically motivated murder cases have been recorded nationally during this local government election period. SAPS Deputy National Commissioner for Policing, Tebello Mosi-kidi, addressed the media at the ROC, fielding questions on the violence and security concerns.
For more on the latest developments, we’re joined by Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
- The Daily Discourse
With unemployment above 33%, the question is: are we overlooking the role municipalities could play in creating jobs? From infrastructure and service delivery to basic community needs, functioning municipalities could unlock employment opportunities for thousands of South Africans. So, how can local government become part of the solution to our unemployment crisis?
Let’s unpack this with Public Finance Specialist and Budget Justice Coalition member, Matshidiso Lencoasa.
- The Daily Discourse
Could a Democratic victory in the US midterms reshape the increasingly strained relationship between Washington and Pretoria?
President Cyril Ramaphosa seems to think so, suggesting that a Democratic takeover of both the House and Senate could usher in a new era in global relations…
- The Daily Discourse
Starlink’s proposal to provide free internet to 5,000 rural South African schools has reignited debate over the country’s BEE requirements and the company’s entry into the local market. Was this a genuine opportunity to bridge the digital divide, or a challenge to South Africa’s transformation policies?
AI and Digital Policy Expert Zanyiwe Nthatisi Asare joins us to unpack the issue.
- The Daily Discourse
With local government elections just two days away, the South African Human Rights Commission has released a damning report on water and sanitation in Gauteng, pointing to infrastructure failures, poor maintenance and financial constraints. And Johannesburg is far from the only metro facing challenges. What’s the state of service delivery across the country’s biggest metros, and what should voters consider before heading to the polls?
Journalist and author of South Africa’s Easy Election Guide: Local Government 2026, Nickolaus Bauer, joins us to unpack it.
- The Daily Discourse
The US decision to exclude South Africa from the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, has sparked mixed reactions. But despite the uncertainty, our agricultural sector is showing resilience, recording a trade surplus of more than 2-billion dollars — up over 11.5% compared to the same period last year. What’s driving this growth, and can it be sustained? Econometrix economist Dr Azar Jammine joins us to unpack the numbers and what they mean for South Africa’s economy.
- The Daily Discourse
How do you predict voter turnout and election performance before the ballots are even cast? The SABC is once again partnering with the CSIR, using scientific research and data modelling to forecast election trends. To unpack how the model works and what it tells us, I’m joined by Prof Pravesh Debba, South African scientist, statistician and researcher at the CSIR.
- The Daily Discourse
Boys should be getting HPV vaccine
Healthcare scientist and professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, working across clinical research, researcher development and evidence-based medicine…
- The Daily Discourse
Navi Pillay: 1st woman and the 5th person to receive the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize award in South Africa
2026 Nobel Peace Prize, distinguished South African jurist and human rights champion, Dr. Navanethem"Navi" Pillay is in conversation with Joanne Joseph.
- The Daily Discourse
MISTRA elections research
Political Scientist and Humanity Faculty Researcher at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA), Dr Laurence Corumba sharesinsights into…
- The Daily Discourse
Special votes being cast today
Former IEC Commissioner and Vice-Chairperson and now Executive Chairman of the Institute of Election Management Services in Africa, Terry Tselane advises…
- The Daily Discourse
Internationally acclaimed R&B and jazz saxophonist B. Thompson is back in South Africa for a series of exclusive performances. The tour culminates this Sunday, 1 November, with an Al Fresco Luxury Signature Experience at the Radisson Blu Sandton. We catch up with the internationally celebrated musician about his return to Mzansi and what audiences can expect.
- The Daily Discourse
What started as a small backyard egg business run by her mother has grown into a thriving commercial poultry enterprise producing close to a million eggs a month and creating 20 jobs.
Lebo Mashigo, founder of Eggsellent by Lebo in Kwaggafontein, now runs a business housing 30,000 chickens and supplying supermarkets, hotels, restaurants and…
- The Daily Discourse
Election fever is sweeping across the globe, and as South Africa prepares for the polls, it's worth looking beyond our borders. From Brazil and Serbia to Israel and the United States, recent elections have been reshaping political landscapes and raising important questions about the future. What can we learn from these contests, and what do they tell us about the state of global politics? Dr Malusi Mncube, Research Associate in the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg, joins me to unpack these developments.
- The Daily Discourse
South Africa is heading into an election that could leave as many as 100 hung councils, forcing political parties to negotiate coalitions to govern. But with larger parties and newcomers jostling for power, how do we ensure stability and accountability? The Municipal Structures Amendment Bill, better known as the Coalitions Bill, aims to provide those guardrails, yet it still has a long way to go before becoming law. What does this mean for local government? Emeritus Professor Susan Booysen joins me to unpack this crucial legislation.
- The Daily Discourse
Yesterday, we heard from Yanga, a listener in Cape Town, who says taxi violence is making it difficult for his staff to get to work, putting deadlines on a paid building project at risk. The situation remains tense in areas like Delft, where two people were shot last Thursday, bringing the death toll to five. Despite talks between officials and taxi associations, the Palm taxi rank remained closed yesterday, with a heavy police presence in the area. So, has there been any progress in resolving the situation? Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku joins me now.
- The Daily Discourse
An important court battle gets underway today, as Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia and KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi seek a permanent order to stop March and March from protesting in parts of Durban. This follows weeks of violent protests, including the recent fatal beating of a Ugandan national. But what does this legal challenge mean for the movement and its right to protest? March and March national spokesperson Sandile Dube joins me now.
- The Daily Discourse
Prasa follow up on train operations
Regional Manager for the Western Cape at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA),Raymond Maseko responds to a Daily Discourse listener complaining…
- The Daily Discourse
Khampepe Commission
Deputy chairperson of khulumani support group, Mbuyiselo Botha is dissecting the latest testimony at the Commission of Inquiry into the TRC investigations and…
- The Daily Discourse
World Stroke Day: Siki Mgabadeli's journey
This World Stroke Day, SAfm brings you a special conversation featuring broadcaster Siki Mgabadeli, alongside medical and rehabilitation professionals…
- The Daily Discourse
AGSA Week: how public resources are being protected
Acting Head of Portfolio at AGSA, Kgabo Komape speaks to Joanne Joseph about how public resources are being protected,
- The Daily Discourse
AI is changing the music industry, but at what cost to artists’ identity and creative rights? We’ve started unpacking this increasingly controversial debate here on SAfm, and today we’re looking at the thorny issues of consent, identity and AI imitating an artist’s voice and style.
AI is changing the music industry, but at what cost to artists’ identity and creative rights? We’ve started unpacking this increasingly…
- The Daily Discourse
The government is looking at early retirement and voluntary exit packages for teachers in a bid to save billions of rands. According to IOL, the Department of Basic Education could save an estimated R4.4 billion a year. But at what cost? Could losing experienced teachers put even more pressure on an already stretched education system? And where will the replacements come from?
The government is looking at early retirement and voluntary exit packages for teachers in a bid to save billions of rands. According to IOL, the Department of…
- The Daily Discourse
A landmark judgment from the Supreme Court of Appeal has sent a strong message to the government: cultural considerations cannot be used to unlawfully interfere in adoptions. Five judges have criticised the national and Gauteng Departments of Social Development over interference that reportedly delayed at least two adoptions.
A landmark judgment from the Supreme Court of Appeal has sent a strong message to the government: cultural considerations cannot be used to unlawfully…
- The Daily Discourse
Should alcohol sales at bars, restaurants and shebeens stop at midnight? The DG Murray Trust thinks so, arguing that late-night alcohol sales could be fuelling binge-drinking and worsening alcohol-related health problems in South Africa.
Should alcohol sales at bars, restaurants and shebeens stop at midnight? The DG Murray Trust thinks so, arguing that late-night alcohol sales could be fuelling…
- The Daily Discourse
Beyond Apathy: Youth, democracy and voting beliefs
Chief Research specialist at the Human Sciences Research Council, Dr Steven Gordon explains the satisfaction survey looking at the attitudes of South Africans…
- The Daily Discourse
Origins of South Africa’s voter apathy
Sithembiso Nzimande, share the roots behind voter apathy ahead of the local elections
- The Daily Discourse
Empowaworx Book Review
Nyimpini Mabunda, CEO nights Author shares insights he learnt from sitting down with leading CEO's in the country.
- The Daily Discourse
From the swimming lanes to the winelands
Founder of New Dawn Wines, Rudger Van Wyk is in conversation with Joanne Joseph about his growing business.
- The Daily Discourse
AI MUSIC: songwriting, composition, vocals and production
Senior Lecturer in Music Technology and Musicology at the University of Pretoria’s School of the Art, Miles Warrington explores songwriting, composition…
- The Daily Discourse
Speaking out against corruption can come at a devastating personal cost. Just ask former City of Johannesburg senior manager and whistleblower Sarika Lakraj-Naidoo. In an emotional interview with us a few days ago, she laid bare the price she’s paid for blowing the whistle — disciplinary hearings, former colleagues allegedly giving false testimony against her, and financial ruin after struggling to find work, despite ultimately being vindicated.
Speaking out against corruption can come at a devastating personal cost. Just ask former City of Johannesburg senior manager and whistleblower Sarika…
- The Daily Discourse
Finding clothes you can actually afford in South African stores is becoming increasingly difficult. So, it’s little wonder that shoppers are flocking to online giants like Shein and Temu, where rock-bottom prices and the convenience of shopping from home are hard to resist.
Finding clothes you can actually afford in South African stores is becoming increasingly difficult. So, it’s little wonder that shoppers are flocking to…
- The Daily Discourse
10-billion rand worth of relief that the Finance Minister announced in terms of the Fuel Levy during his Mid-Term Budget. Minister Godongwana is implementing a cut to the Fuel Levy after fuel prices soared to an all-time high this month.
10-billion rand's worth of relief that the Finance Minister announced in terms of the Fuel Levy during his Mid-Term Budget. Minister Godongwana is…
- The Daily Discourse
Civil society organisation, Equal Education, is not charmed by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Mid-Term Budget, delivered yesterday afternoon.
Civil society organisation, Equal Education, is not charmed by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Mid-Term Budget, delivered yesterday afternoon. The…
- The Daily Discourse
Former Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has been denied bail in his rape case — but the controversy surrounding him is far from over. Arrested at a Sandton strip club last month, Sibiya faces a string of serious charges, including the alleged sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl, the alleged rape of an 18-year-old, human trafficking and firearms law violations.
Former Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has been denied bail in his rape case — but the controversy surrounding him is far from over…
- The Daily Discourse
At two this afternoon, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivers the Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement. It’s more than just a mini-budget — it’s a reality check on the state of South Africa’s economy, government’s spending priorities, and what lies ahead for our public finances.
At two this afternoon, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivers the Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement. It’s more than just a mini-budget &mdash…
- The Daily Discourse
We usually have Brian Hirsch in on a Wednesday, buthis colleague, Sandy van der Zanden is in for him this morning. And we're asking the question: Beyond the Rand: Is Your Wealth Too South African?
We usually have Brian Hirsch in on a Wednesday, buthis colleague, Sandy van der Zanden is in for him this morning. And we're asking the question: Beyond…
- The Daily Discourse
As fuel costs continue to climb, could New Energy Vehicles be part of the solution for South African drivers? We’ve explored biofuels, and now we turn to the global shift towards cleaner energy in transport.
As fuel costs continue to climb, could New Energy Vehicles be part of the solution for South African drivers? We’ve explored biofuels, and now we turn to…
- The Daily Discourse
KwaZulu-Natal has secured R124.5 billion in investment commitments, smashing its R95 billion target and potentially creating more than 330,000 jobs. But Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli says the real test is turning these pledges into projects, economic growth and sustainable employment.
KwaZulu-Natal has secured R124.5 billion in investment commitments, smashing its R95 billion target and potentially creating more than 330,000 jobs. But…
- The Daily Discourse
In the City of Tshwane 408 residents have suffered gastrointestinal illness after drinking unchlorinated tap water, with the youngest victims, many under four years old, from Bronkhorstspruit, Zithobeni, Dark City, Rethabiseng and Sokhulumi. How does this level of failure happen?
Ald. Aaron Maluleka: is the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Housing and Human Settlements in the City of Tshwane David Mahlobo: Deputy Minister…
- The Daily Discourse
Artificial intelligence is changing how music is made — but how much of a song is human, and how much is AI? TechCentral reports that SAMRO is now asking members to disclose AI’s contribution when registering musical works, including how much a human contributed.
Artificial intelligence is changing how music is made — but how much of a song is human, and how much is AI? TechCentral reports that SAMRO is now asking…
- The Daily Discourse
We often talk about corruption, but what happens to those who dare to expose it? Whistleblowing takes courage and a strong sense of ethics, but too often, doing the right thing comes at a devastating personal cost.
We often talk about corruption, but what happens to those who dare to expose it? Whistleblowing takes courage and a strong sense of ethics, but too often…
- The Daily Discourse
A new report commissioned by the Centre for Development and Enterprise warns that water shortages, infrastructure theft and emergency repairs are creating opportunities for organised crime to profit from municipal failure.
A new report commissioned by the Centre for Development and Enterprise warns that water shortages, infrastructure theft and emergency repairs are creating…
- The Daily Discourse
Joe Gqabi District Municipality
The Executive Mayor, Councillor Nomvuyo Mposelwa is in conversation with Joanne Joseph reviewing the municipality's performance over the past 5 years
- The Daily Discourse
Why are convicted cops still at work?
Policing and Security Strategist, Andy Mashaile speaks on the failures within the SAPS which have allowed for 248 convicted SAPS members who remain employed by…
- The Daily Discourse
SA’s Paris moment is not far away
Department of Education Policies Professor at Stellenbosch University, Prof Jonathan Jansen warns that South Africa’s Paris moment is not far away…
- The Daily Discourse
Sun International moves to block grant recipients from gambling online on their platform
The CEO of South African-facing Sun International, Ulrik Bengtsson speaks to Joanne Joseph about the company's plans to ban grant and NSFAS recipients from…
- The Daily Discourse
Census 30 OB: why government counts every person, and what thirty years of data means for South Africa?
Nonceba Mhlauli, Deputy Minister in the Presidency
- The Daily Discourse
Census 30 OB: The role of the Statistics Council in ensuring census integrity, independence, and public trust
Census 30 OB: The role of the Statistics Council in ensuring census integrity, independence, and public trust Dr Nompumelelo Mbele, Chairperson of the South…
- The Daily Discourse
Census 30 OB: Thirty years of census-taking in democratic South Africa: milestones, lessons, and the road ahead Risenga Maluleke, Statistician-General at Statistics South Africa
Risenga Maluleke, Statistician-General at Statistics South Africa
- The Daily Discourse
Census 30 OB: What does the census mean for development planning and UNFPA's work in South Africa?
Mr Yu Yu, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative
- The Daily Discourse
Preventing a heatstroke
General practitioner in Craighall park, Dr Karin Van der Merwe gives tips on how to avoid a heat stroke as heatwaves continue in several provinces across the…
- The Daily Discourse
Motorists in parts of Johannesburg are facing delays in renewing driving licences and vehicle licence discs after a contract expired before a replacement was in place. With services disrupted, questions are mounting over accountability and contingency planning.
Motorists in parts of Johannesburg are facing delays in renewing driving licences and vehicle licence discs after a contract expired before a replacement was…
- The Daily Discourse
The world produces enough food, yet millions still go hungry. This World Food Day, we ask how innovation, smarter food systems and collaboration can make nutritious food more accessible, affordable and sustainable.
The world produces enough food, yet millions still go hungry. This World Food Day, we ask how innovation, smarter food systems and collaboration can make…
- The Daily Discourse
Following the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the ANC’s candidate-list submissions, the IEC must now determine the way forward ahead of the November 2026 local government elections
Following the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the ANC’s candidate-list submissions, the IEC must now determine the way forward ahead of the…
- The Daily Discourse
From rural communities in the Eastern Cape to building two dental practices in Cape Town, Dr Yonela Zintle Putuma-Gqalangile is transforming smiles and making oral healthcare more accessible.
From rural communities in the Eastern Cape to building two dental practices in Cape Town, Dr Yonela Zintle Putuma-Gqalangile is transforming smiles and making…
- The Daily Discourse
South African importers are under growing pressure as soaring shipping costs and rising fuel prices drive up the cost of getting goods to market. With margins squeezed and consumers already feeling the pinch, how can businesses stay competitive and manage rising costs ahead of the year-end trading season?
South African importers are under growing pressure as soaring shipping costs and rising fuel prices drive up the cost of getting goods to market. With margins…