The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

Mandy Wiener hosts a report covering protests in Kempton Park regarding the investigation of multiple murders and the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. The episode explores the lack of budget and resources to address GBV, alongside updates on intensified police deployments in Johannesburg and findings from the Midlanga Commission regarding public service inefficiency. The program also covers a health warning from the Department of Health regarding rising Mpox cases and provides a sports update on local football injuries. The episode concludes with an interview with Brent Lindeku, who discusses finding hope through community action and supporting organizations that address social issues.

In this episode of Good Things, host and guest Brent Lindeke discuss the heavy atmosphere in South Africa following recent tragedies involving gender-based violence in Ekurhuleni. While acknowledging the profound sadness and the national conversation surrounding safety, the discussion focuses on the collective response of citizens, including crowdfunding efforts, solidarity marches, and community-led initiatives. The conversation explores how individual actions, social media advocacy, and supporting civil society organizations can drive systemic change. The episode highlights the importance of not succumbing to apathy and instead finding ways to act as 'helpers.' Lindeke introduces helpers.co.za, a free database designed to connect South Africans with organizations working on the ground in areas such as GBV, homelessness, and child welfare. The discussion serves as a call to action for listeners to move beyond symbolic gestures and engage in meaningful support for the backbone of the country's social fabric.

The episode features a discussion with Tola Kele Mganga regarding the role of sports figures and those in power in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The conversation explores the importance of institutional policy changes versus mere awareness raising, specifically noting the silence of certain football captains. The program then transitions into a football preview covering the Betway Premiership and Premier League, discussing Orlando Pirates' unbeaten run, injury concerns for Kaizer Chiefs, and Mamelodi Sundowns' historic opportunity in the Intercontinental Cup. Additionally, there is a brief mention of recent results from Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup.

The Department of Health is urging citizens to remain vigilant following a rapid increase in laboratory-confirmed MPOX cases over the past few weeks. Foster Mahale, spokesperson for the Department of Health, discusses the recent rise in positive cases, particularly around the city of Cape Town in the Western Cape. The discussion covers the transition from the name monkeypox to Mpox to reduce stigma and the activation of contact tracing protocols by health authorities. Listeners are advised on identifying symptoms such as fever, headache, body pains, and specifically the presence of a thick rash or lesions on the face, hands, feet, or genitals. The Department of Health emphasizes that individuals experiencing these symptoms should avoid self-diagnosis or over-the-counter medication and instead present themselves to the nearest healthcare facility for professional screening and testing.

This episode covers a report from the Zondo Commission featuring testimony from Professor Somedoda Fikini, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission. The discussion focuses on the political economy of inefficiency in South Africa, highlighting how billions of rands are returned to the National Treasury because funds are not spent where they are most needed. Professor Fikini describes South Africa as a graveyard for good policy, noting that while the country possesses world-class governance frameworks, implementation and coordination remain significant challenges due to issues within political leadership. The report examines the gap between policy creation and actual execution in public administration.

The podcast episode features an interview with Lieutenant Colonel Kelehile Tepe, the spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), regarding security developments on the East Rand. The discussion focuses on the current deployment of law enforcement in Kempton Park and the level of cooperation between different metropolitan police departments. Lieutenant Colonel Tepe clarifies that while the EMPD is actively patrolling in conjunction with the South African Police Services, they have not received any formal assistance from the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) or the Tshwane Metro Police Department. He advises residents to remain vigilant and travel in groups due to the ongoing security concerns in the area.

JMPD spokesperson Olani Fikhla discusses the intensification of nighttime deployments and targeted crime cut operations across Johannesburg. Following a directive from City Manager Dr. Floyd Brink and Police Commissioner Patrick Chakka, the JMPD has increased proactive policing and community outreach to address recent violent incidents in the region, including border areas near Ekurhuleni. The operation involves high-visibility patrols in densely populated areas and the deployment of specialized units, such as the CCTV reaction unit, tactical response unit, and canine unit. The JMPD is working within an integrated government relations format alongside the South African Police Service and other municipal law enforcement to curb crime and assist in prevention efforts.

DA MP Samantha Graham-Marie discusses the lack of financial resources and effective implementation following the declaration of gender-based violence as a national crisis in South Africa. The conversation highlights concerns regarding the inadequacy of budgets within the Departments of Women, Justice, and Police, noting that while promises have been made, actual funding for interventions remains unverified. Graham-Marie points to issues such as under-resourced victim support centers, the lack of access to services in rural areas like the Eastern Cape, and the failure of government ministers to respond to inquiries regarding budget reallocation.

This report covers ongoing protests in Kempton Park, where religious and civil society groups have organized marches to demand action against gender-based violence and femicide. Following the discovery of nine bodies in the area, including some in Boksburg, demonstrators have presented a memorandum of demand to the Mayor of Ekurhuleni and are currently scrutinizing the effectiveness of local policing at the Kempton Park Police Station. The report highlights the community's call for increased police visibility and more efficient law enforcement following recent high-profile operations.

This episode of the Midday Report covers breaking news in South Africa, including the Electoral Court's dismissal of the ANC's bid to include certain councillors on the ballot and an investigation into eight bodies found on the East Rand. The program features expert analysis from a criminal profiler regarding potential serial killings and an interview with ANC Deputy Secretary General Nomvula Mokanyani on the systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence. The episode also explores community-led environmental initiatives like the 'Alex Water Warriors' in Alexandra. Finally, the discussion shifts to the scientific implications of Artificial Intelligence, featuring Dr. Liam Baker on how AI is solving Millennium Prize problems and the resulting impact on mathematical research and global security.

Hanki Matabani, CEO of the Black Business Council, discusses the potential impact of proposed U.S. visa curbs following announcements from Marco Rubio. The discussion focuses on how individuals advocating for economic transformation or addressing past injustices may face restrictions on entering the United States. Matabani expresses concern regarding the unpredictability of these policies and the difficulty of engaging with the U.S. Embassy to mitigate threats to business travel and international engagement.

This episode features an analysis by international relations expert Dr. Oscar van Heerden regarding a new United States executive order implementing visa restrictions. The policy targets foreign nationals involved in race-based discrimination and the incitement of imminent violence, specifically impacting individuals from South Africa and their families. Dr. van Heerden explores the geopolitical motivations behind this move, linking the US frustration to the ongoing proxy war in Ukraine, tensions with Iran, and the rise of anti-American sentiment within multilateral organizations like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The discussion highlights how South Africa's role as a junior partner in BRICS and its legal actions at the International Court of Justice make it a target for these punitive measures.

An interview with Nolotando Mashalohu, the board deputy chairperson of the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC), regarding the organization's 30th anniversary. The discussion covers the NHFC's historical impact on South African housing, including its role in leveraging R31 billion to contribute to over 829,000 housing opportunities for low to middle-income groups. The conversation explores the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing the national housing backlog and outlines the corporation's vision for the next 30 years. Future goals include becoming an innovative housing finance provider and positioning the NHFC as a global player capable of informing policy.

In this episode, Anne Bernstein of the Center for Development and Enterprise (CDE) discusses the findings of the 'Kickstarting Delivery' report, part of the Johannesburg Matters series. The discussion focuses on the critical need for competent leadership within Johannesburg's municipal entities to address ongoing water, power, and service delivery crises. Bernstein argues that political patronage and coalition-based bargaining have turned key institutions into fiefdoms, emphasizing that reform requires prioritizing technical expertise over political allegiance in mission-critical appointments.

This episode marks the one-year anniversary of the Madlanga Commission, assessing the progress and findings regarding the infiltration of South Africa's criminal justice system. EWN reporter Karinda Jagmohan provides updates on preliminary evidence of corruption among state officials, including the impact on high-ranking figures like the former Police Minister. The report details the growing influence of prison gangs such as the 28s, 27s, and 26s, as well as specialized units like the Big Five gang and the Air Force Gang. The discussion covers the systemic nature of these criminal activities, their connection to street gangs like the Varados, and the resulting financial and security implications for the Department of Correctional Services.

An EWN report from Dawn Park, Ekurhuleni, detailing the discovery of a 23-year-old woman's body found abandoned on the side of a road. The incident is part of a broader mass investigation involving at least nine bodies discovered over recent weeks and months. The report covers police statements regarding potential links between certain cases, the emotional impact on the victim's family, and the involvement of high-ranking officials and Home Affairs in identifying victims.

This episode explores the recent breakthrough in mathematics where a group of 10,000 autonomous AI agents under OpenAI's direction reportedly found a singularity in the Navier-Stokes equations in three dimensions. This achievement represents the solving of one of the six Millennium Prize problems, a feat that has sparked significant debate within the mathematical community regarding the role of artificial intelligence in research. Interviewer and mathematics lecturer Dr. Liam Baker discuss the implications of using massive compute power for mathematical discovery. The conversation covers the divide between mathematicians who embrace AI-driven proofs and those who distrust them due to concerns over lack of human understanding and the sheer complexity of AI-generated documents. The episode also touches upon the practical applications of other unsolved Millennium Prize problems, such as P versus NP, and their impact on global digital security.

This episode of The Hope Dealers features the Alex Water Warriors, a community-led initiative in Alexandra dedicated to restoring the Jukskei River. Driven by local residents rather than outside NGOs, the group works to combat illegal dumping, manage waste through recycling stations, and implement litter traps to protect the river's ecosystem. Their efforts include planting approximately 16,000 trees, creating medicinal gardens, and fostering community entrepreneurship. The project aims to transform the river from a polluted site into a space for ecotourism and safe community recreation. By addressing environmental degradation and providing economic opportunities—particularly for women impacted by the pandemic—the Water Warriors are working to rebuild local pride and establish a sustainable, cleaner future for the residents of Joburg.

The midday report features an interview with ANC First Deputy Secretary Nomvula Mokonyani regarding the recent discovery of multiple bodies in Gauteng. The discussion focuses on the ANC's condemnation of these killings and the broader crisis of gender-based violence in South Africa. Mokonyani addresses the effectiveness of the current justice system, calling for integrated, intelligence-driven responses and a review of how resources are allocated to combat violence against women.

Serial killer profiler Gerard Labouskakhani provides his preliminary analysis of recent criminal cases unfolding in Kempton Park. Based on media reports regarding geographical proximity, timeframe, victimology involving adult black females, and a suspected sexual component, he discusses why these incidents warrant treatment as a serial murder investigation. The episode also explores the strategic reasons behind police reluctance to officially label such cases as serial killings and the importance of activating dedicated task teams early in an investigation.

An EWN report detailing a high-level police briefing regarding the investigation into eight women killed on the East Rand. The briefing included Acting National Police Commissioner Paulin Dempane and Acting Police Minister Feroz Kachalia, addressing speculation surrounding a potential serial killer. The police have acknowledged similarities between the cases but have not officially linked them to a single perpetrator. The report covers the South African Police Service's offer of a 400,000 rand cash reward for information, alongside an appeal to the private sector for additional funding. It also discusses the deployment of additional resources, such as helicopters, by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and mentions the identification of a person of interest currently being sought by authorities.

This episode covers breaking news regarding a recent Electoral Court judgment dismissing the ANC's attempt to include 181 councillors on the ballot after missing nomination deadlines in six provinces. The report details the court's decision, the involvement of the IEC and DEA, and the potential impact on key municipalities such as the Mangaung Metro. The discussion also explores the ANC's potential legal recourse through the Constitutional Court and the broader implications for approximately 2,000 other candidates who failed to finalize their submissions.

This episode investigates a series of brutal murders involving six women on Johannesburg's East Rand, examining the potential for a serial killer and addressing public outcry over police response and allegations of corruption within the JMPD. The discussion also covers South Africa's 'Indulamiti' 2035 economic scenarios, updated crime statistics in the Western Cape, and the relocation of refugees from Durban to Gauteng. Additionally, the episode features a look into the controversy surrounding a Hyrox competition involving world record holder Joanna Vierczyk. The program concludes with listener voice notes addressing concerns regarding scenario planning models and calls for legislative reforms within the South African criminal justice system.

This episode discusses the controversial victory of Hyrox world record holder Joanna Virchik in Beijing, where she continued her race despite experiencing significant physical distress. The discussion features trainer Devin Miller from Gold's Gym, who provides insight into the athlete's decision-making during the event and the subsequent rule changes implemented by Hyrox organizers to address safety and equipment sharing concerns.

More than 200 documented refugees and asylum seekers who had been living on the streets of Durban for three months have been relocated to the Lindela Repatriation Centre in Krugersdorp, Gauteng. The move follows a period of instability in Durban triggered by illegal immigration demonstrations in May, which led many foreign nationals to flee their homes due to fear for their lives. The relocation involves approximately 278 individuals who accepted a government offer for temporary shelter, while roughly 100 others chose to remain in Durban to attempt reintegration into society. The report highlights the distinction that this move is for temporary accommodation rather than immediate repatriation, as these individuals hold legal permits and the right to reside in South Africa.

The latest crime statistics for the Western Cape covering the period from April to June reveal a mixed landscape of safety and violence. While police report an overall improvement with a 6% drop in contact crimes and declines in serious crime across all six police districts, murder rates remain a critical issue. The province has recorded over 1,000 murders for the third consecutive year, averaging at least 11 deaths per day during this quarter. Violence remains heavily concentrated in specific areas of Cape Town, with Manzini identified as the country's primary murder hotspot. Key drivers of serious violence continue to include gang activity, taxi-related conflicts, extortion, and hijackings. Despite a slight decrease in attempted murders, high levels of crime persist in districts such as Mitchells Plain, Nyanga, and Delft.

This episode explores the Nglulu-Miti barometer, a research initiative that tracks various indicators to project South Africa's trajectory toward 2035. Featuring researcher Lulu Miti, the discussion examines three distinct future scenarios for the nation: stagnation (Hadidah), political dysfunction and economic decline (Vulture Culture), and a functional society where government and business collaborate (Weaver). The conversation analyzes current empirical data and perception surveys, revealing that while 72% of indicators currently point toward a stagnating nation, there are emerging rays of hope. The analysis highlights the disparity between national economic trends and the specific optimism found among younger populations and lower-income households regarding immediate progress.

This episode examines allegations of systemic corruption and collusion within the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) as presented during the Madlanga Commission. The discussion covers testimony from Internal Affairs Superintendent Elmarie Debeer, who alleges that certain high-ranking officers have instructed units to stand down during criminal operations and used police resources for personal benefit. The report further details a pattern of criminal activity involving JMPD, SAPS, and ACS members, including the targeting of business people trading in precious stones, as well as alleged involvement in human trafficking and drug trafficking.

This episode features an interview regarding a series of murders involving women in the Ekurhuleni and Gauteng areas, which officials have described as a national crisis. Pakamile Mbegache, spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni, discusses the activation of a joint operations center, increased police visibility, and the deployment of resources to investigate the killings. The discussion covers the ongoing investigation by SAPS, the presence of a multi-pronged departmental task team auditing public safety, and the official stance on community cooperation. Bandile Masuku from the Gauteng Provincial Legislature's Portfolio Committee on Community Safety joins the conversation to emphasize the need for community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. The discussion touches upon the challenges of public safety, such as poor lighting and lack of patrols, while addressing the importance of avoiding speculation during an active investigation involving multiple victims.

Journalist Mongezi Korko reports on the discovery of a sixth woman's body on Johannesburg's East Rand in Quartemba. The victim was found in a state of decomposition and, unlike previous victims, was discovered fully naked. This latest incident follows closely after another woman was found beaten and half-naked in Oliphant's Fontaine, sparking significant public outcry and concern regarding police response times and resource allocation. The report covers the mobilization of police divisions within Ekurhuleni, upcoming briefings from Acting Police Minister Feroz Kachalia, and the impact of service delivery failures on local crime. As families search for missing relatives, authorities have pledged to bolster resources and intensify investigations into these heinous crimes.

Forensic psychologist Dr. Mickey Pistorius discusses the ongoing investigation into suspected serial killings in South Africa. The conversation covers the establishment of a task team led by General Major Kumala, the importance of victim profiling and crime scene signatures in identifying a serial killer, and the challenges of investigating stranger-on-stranger crimes. Dr. Pistorius also addresses the current state of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the public pressure surrounding the case.

The episode features an interview with Koketsokoki Boghashul, a student from Hoërskool Yeugland in Kempton Park, and her campaign manager, Lelo. The duo has gained viral social media fame through their creative 'Missy Elliott Mean Girls' themed campaign for the school's head girl position. The conversation covers the origins of their viral campaign, the unexpected massive engagement they received on social media, and their personal aspirations for the future. The interview concludes with a discussion on maintaining hope in South Africa despite current societal challenges.

In this interview, News24 Deputy Politics Editor Bongakile Matupe discusses the escalating crisis of femicide and personal safety for women in South Africa. Following reports of an alleged serial killer and recent discoveries of deceased women, Matupe critiques the burden placed on women to take extra precautions rather than addressing systemic failures. She highlights issues such as lack of visible policing, poor infrastructure like broken street lights, and a perceived lack of political will within leadership institutions.

A sports discussion featuring Mawande Mateza covering recent major events in rugby, football, and tennis. The episode analyzes the Springboks' victory over New Zealand in Baltimore, noting the significant South African fan presence at M&T Bank Stadium. The conversation shifts to controversial officiating in the Premier League, specifically a VAR decision during the Manchester derby involving Man City and Man United, as well as high-profile errors by goalkeeper Brandon Peterson in the Betway Premiership. The episode concludes with a review of the US Open tennis finals, discussing Alexander Zverev's victory over Ben Shelton and the emotional intensity of Aryna Sabalenka's performance. The hosts also touch upon the rise of the new world number one, Rubikina.

This episode investigates the discovery of a fifth body near Kempton Park, raising suspicions of a serial killer in the area. The discussion explores the systemic lack of safety and autonomy for women in South Africa, addressing the absence of political will and visible policing in response to gender-based violence. The program also features an interview with forensic psychologist Dr. Mickey Pistorius regarding criminal profiling techniques. The episode concludes with a look at a viral school head girl campaign by Koki and Lelo, listener call-ins regarding crime concerns, and a sports update covering the Springboks, football VAR controversies, and tennis.

EWN reporter Monghezi Koko reports from Postman Avenue in Orifansfontein regarding the discovery of a fifth body, found near the R21. The victim was discovered by a passer-by and shows signs of being badly beaten and bruised, mirroring the condition of four previous bodies found over the last two months within a 15-kilometer radius. While police have not officially labeled the perpetrator a serial killer, they are investigating the possibility due to the similar modus operandi. Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Fred Kekana has issued safety warnings to women and girls, advising them to avoid isolated areas and exercise in groups while investigations continue.

This episode covers significant legal and crime news, including the extradition of six Nigerian nationals from the Black Axe network to the U.S. for romance scams and wire fraud, as well as the guilty verdict in the Bafana Mahungela murder trial. The show also reports on MP Fadil Adams' court appearance regarding fraud charges and the Ad Hoc Committee's struggle to finalize its corruption report. In sports and lifestyle news, the episode explores South African rugby viewing rituals and superstitions, updates from the US Open tennis tournament, and upcoming football matches. The episode concludes with 'Friday Feel Good Stories,' featuring a golf victory in Switzerland, a successful rescue on Table Mountain, and an act of kindness on a South African road.

Brent Lindeke presents three uplifting South African stories to conclude the week on Cape Talk. The episode covers Tristan Lawrence's historic victory at the Omega European Masters in Switzerland, where he secured his third title after a dramatic playoff against Paul Casey. The broadcast also details a successful 14-hour rescue operation by Wilderness Search and Rescue involving a lost hiker on Table Mountain, aided by an EMS drone unit. Finally, the episode highlights the selfless actions of Jackie Britt, who stopped to assist three stranded men near Freda. After discovering they were without food or water, she transported their damaged tires to safety and provided much-needed supplies, motivated by a desire to pay forward the kindness she once received when stranded herself.

Sports Wrap with Tolagele Nganga features a discussion on upcoming rugby, tennis, and football fixtures. The hosts discuss the Springboks' upcoming match, noting player injuries such as Cheslin Kolbe and the challenges faced by the All Blacks during their recent tour. The conversation shifts to the US Open, analyzing the high-stakes matchup between the number one and two seeds and addressing concerns regarding crowd hostility in American tennis venues. The episode also covers football developments, including the SAFA elections and the importance of grassroots engagement for leadership, alongside a preview of the Betway Premiership and the Manchester Derby. The hosts conclude with lighthearted banter regarding team loyalty and match-day rituals.

Host Mandy interviews Leandre Fenters, Head of Product Marketing at Pick n Pay, to discuss the results of a recent match day survey regarding South African rugby rituals. The discussion explores the superstitions and traditions associated with watching the Springboks, including the prevalence of braai culture, specific clothing choices like wearing the same jersey, and even the avoidance of noise during penalty kicks. The episode also highlights food preferences and social dynamics, such as the popularity of garlic bread and biltong, and the tendency for fans to invite the same group of people to avoid bad luck.

EWN reporter Babalo Ndenze discusses the current delays facing the Ad Hoc Committee as it seeks an extension to its deadline for completing a massive 900-page report. The committee is currently halfway through reviewing submissions, but progress has been hindered by significant member absenteeism and competing political priorities, such as party organizational work and upcoming elections. The report's development is stalled at the findings stage, with members yet to reach the critical recommendation phase regarding criminal referrals or disciplinary hearings. The discussion also highlights growing frustrations within the committee regarding quorum issues and the potential lack of relevance of the committee given its current momentum and spending.

An interview with Brigadier Atlenda Mate, SAP's national spokesperson, regarding the extradition of six Nigerian nationals to the United States. The individuals, members of the Black Axe Organized Criminal Network, were arrested in South Africa in 2021 following investigations by the Hawks, Interpol Pretoria, and the FBI into large-scale romance scams. The suspects are accused of wire fraud, money laundering, and identity fraud, having swindled over 100 women out of more than 100 million dollars through online love scams. The discussion also covers the broader implications of such crimes in South Africa, highlighting how similar modus operandi are used to target vulnerable individuals, including pensioners. The Brigadier emphasizes the need for vigilance against financial exploitation and shares a recent case involving human trafficking linked to similar fraudulent schemes.

National Coloured Congress Member of Parliament Fadil Adams appeared at the Pinetown Magistrates Court in Durban facing charges of fraud and defeating the ends of justice. The allegations involve unauthorized recorded audio interviews with awaiting trial inmates at Westville Prison, including individuals linked to high-profile political killings. While the state alleges misrepresentation of parliamentary oversight duties, Adams maintains he was acting on whistleblower reports regarding corruption within the SAPS Political Killings Task Team.