From world-class Pretoria showgrounds to a dilapidated mess

Loading player...
The City of Tshwane had grand plans to turn the old Pretoria showgrounds into a commercial mixed-use precinct. However, nothing has come of these plans. The Pretoria Show Grounds, which changed its name to the Tshwane Events Centre, was a world-class facility which hosted numerous events. In 2004, for example, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) decided to use its premises as its nerve centre before, during and after the April general elections. However, it has been so neglected and vandalised over the last few years that the IEC had to find a new elections results centre for last year’s elections. Phemelo speaks to MMC Corporate and Shared Services City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.
16 Apr 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

Other recent episodes

Legal Matters: Can you be forced to maintain a sibling?

In today’s Legal Matters, Nthabiseng unpacks a surprising development: the National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed that you could be legally required to support a financially struggling sibling. From housing and food to medical costs and education - maintenance law in South Africa extends further than many realise. What does this…
4 Mar 3PM 39 min

Trump insists he struck Iran on his own terms

Did the US strike Iran to pre-empt an Israeli attack - or was it always part of President Donald Trump’s strategy? The White House is scrambling to clarify its position after Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the US acted knowing Israel was about to move. Democrats are questioning the…
4 Mar 3PM 11 min

3. R32.5 billion price tag to fix Tshwane’s informal settlement crisis

It’s a staggering figure: R32.5 billion. That’s what the City of Tshwane says it needs to upgrade or relocate more than 500 informal settlements across the metro. With nearly 356,000 structures earmarked for in-place upgrades and over 151,000 facing relocation, the housing crisis is deep and growing. The newly approved…
4 Mar 3PM 11 min

SA government urges citizens to evacuate Middle East

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating, and South Africa is urging its citizens to get out while they still can. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation says more than 6,400 South Africans in the region have registered on its Travel Smart system as heavy attacks are expected to…
4 Mar 3PM 6 min

Remembering Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota

From Robben Island prisoner to Defence Minister - South Africa is reflecting on the life of struggle veteran Mosiuoa Lekota who has passed away at the age of 77. Imprisoned alongside Nelson Mandela, Lekota went on to help shape democratic South Africa, serving nearly a decade as Defence Minister under…
4 Mar 3PM 9 min