Point of View with Phemelo Motene
Point of View with Phemelo Motene, delves into the day’s current affairs, touching on real issues and sharing expert advice on the audience questions between 8pm to 10pm Mondays to Thursdays.
Dr Sheldon Rocha Leal on Iconic Tunes from Commercials
Did you ever find yourself humming a tune from an advert long after it aired? In this fun and nostalgic music feature, musicologist Dr Sheldon Rocha Leal joins Phemelo in studio to unpack the power of music in advertising. From Marvin Gaye’s Heard It Through the Grapevine to Lira’s Feel…
Highlights from the National Arts Festival
For over 50 years, the National Arts Festival in Makhanda has been a space where stories are told, voices are heard, and boundaries are pushed. From theatre and dance to music and visual arts, the festival has grown into a celebration of South Africa’s creative spirit. Phemelo wraps up this…
Justice for Caiphus Nyoka – A Sentence, But No Closure?
38 years after the killing of student activist Caiphus Nyoka, former apartheid-era police officer Johan Marais has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for his murder. The court noted Marais showed little genuine remorse, writing to the family only in an effort to reduce his sentence. Caiphus was just…
The State of SA Transport – Minister Barbara Creecy breaks down her budget
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy recently presented her department’s budget speech, outlining where funds are being directed in the country’s transport sector. In her conversation with Phemelo, she unpacks key priorities, from the troubled state of Transnet to long-standing issues like the driver’s licence card machine, which has frustrated many South…
Legal Matters: Defamation, Contempt & Workplace Challenges
This week on Legal Matters: Defamation, contempt of court, poor performance, and mental health in the workplace. Plus, your legal questions answered.
Joburg Clinic Without Water for 6 Weeks – DA Calls for Urgent Action
Malvern Clinic in east Johannesburg has had no water for six weeks, forcing staff to rely on buckets from a water tank, posing serious hygiene and infection risks. The clinic can’t safely perform basic procedures like urine or stool tests, and handwashing under running water is impossible. DA Gauteng shadow…
Teenage Pregnancy in South Africa: A National Roadmap
Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike leads a national push to tackle teenage pregnancy. Phemelo chats with the Minister about key outcomes from a recent stakeholder session and how it’s shaping a strategy to prevent and manage teen pregnancies.
DA Targets Police Minister Mchunu Over Misconduct Claims
The DA plans to lay criminal charges against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu over serious allegations of misconduct. Phemelo speaks to the DA’s Lisa Schickerling after KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of covering up investigations and colluding with underworld figures.
Alistair Mackay’s Top 5
From dark satire to heart-stirring fiction, author and columnist Alistair Mackay joins Phemelo to share his top five must-reads, including titles by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Miranda July, and more. Discover your next favourite book.
Evidence of Racial Bias Found in Medical Schemes
A shocking investigation has revealed racial discrimination against Black healthcare providers by major medical schemes between 2012-2019. The Section 59 panel's final report is out, and it's damning. Phemelo chats with Dr Musa Gumede from the Council for Medical Schemes for insights.
Mbenenge Testifies: ‘Sensual, Not Sexual’
Eastern Cape judge president Selby Mbenenge has defended himself, claiming his texts to junior legal professional Andiswa Mengo were flirtatious but not inappropriate. He has denied allegations of sexual harassment and has pointed to a smear campaign, Phemelo breaks down his testimony with Kaya News’ Zikhona Tshona.
MP’s calls for action on prison overcrowding
Thousands sit in South African jails awaiting trial, some just because they can’t afford low bail. MPs say it’s time to fix the broken system. Phemelo speaks to The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services Kgomotso Ramolobeng about overcrowding, poor infrastructure, and immigration concerns in correctional services.
International Wrap: Trump calls Musk's new political party 'ridiculous'
US President Donald Trump has hit out at former close ally Elon Musk over the multi-billionaire's plan to launch a new political party. "I think it's ridiculous to start a third party," said Trump, speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One. "It's always been a two-party system, and I…
Africa-US Universities Network Conference 2025
What happens when leading minds from African and U.S. universities come together to reimagine global higher education? That’s exactly what unfolded at the recent Africa-US Universities Network Conference, hosted by the African Centre for the Study of the United States (ACSUS) at the University of the Witwatersrand. The event brought…
SAPS commissioner accuses police minister of derailing probe into political killings
Explosive claims from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi have rocked the nation. He claims Police Minister Senzo Mchunu helped shut down the Political Killings Task Team to protect a politically connected criminal syndicate,one he says includes police officers, prosecutors, correctional officials, and even members of the judiciary. Phemelo…
Standard Bank National Arts Festival
Phemelo is in conversation with Monica Newton, CEO of the National Arts Festival, reflecting on five decades of artistic brilliance. As one of Africa’s most diverse arts celebrations, NAF has brought together thousands of creatives and audiences to craft unforgettable cultural experiences. Thanks to long-standing support - especially from Standard…
Margaret Arnolds Re-Elected as Speaker of Council in Johannesburg
Margaret Arnolds has been re-elected as Speaker of Council in Johannesburg. She replaces Nobuhle Mthembu, who was booted out in a no-confidence motion last week. Arnolds was nominated alongside Yongama Zigebe from the UDM and Alex Christians of the DA. Arnolds received 137 votes, while Christians received 68 votes, and…
Former deputy president David Mabuza dies
Former deputy president David Mabuza has died. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula confirmed the death on his X account on Thursday afternoon and described Mabuza as a great leader who dedicated his life to serve the people. Mabuza, who would have turned 65 on August 25, served as deputy president from…
2025 Standard Bank Young Artist for theatre: Calvin Ratladi
Phemelo is in conversation with Calvin Ratladi, the 2025 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre, as he prepares to shake up Makhanda with his new work, Breakfast with Mugabe. Running from 3–6 July at the National Arts Festival, Ratladi’s gripping psychological drama supported by The Market Theatre and Festival Enterprise…
Foreign nationals illegally blocked from accessing clinics
Foreign nationals have spoken of being blocked from entering clinics in Johannesburg. Despite the law being crystal clear - you cannot be denied healthcare based on your nationality or immigration status - they say they are being turned away or pushed to the back of the queue. Last month, Operation…