African Renaissance Podcast

In this profound episode of the African Renaissance Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi sits down with world-renowned South African visual artist Nelson Makamo. They unpack the realities of maintaining creative freedom, breaking away from exploitative gallery structures, and why African creators must become the primary authors of their own history.
Makamo reveals exclusive details about his recent historic meeting with
President Thabo Mbeki, his decision to donate his priceless archives to the Thabo Mbeki Library, and his visionary 178-hectare land project designed to empower rural communities with clean spring water. Tune in to discover the strategic framework behind turning a 25-rand pencil sketch into a globally dominant independent brand.

In conversation with Dr Judy Dlamini for a wide-ranging conversation about women, leadership, inequality, medicine, corporate South Africa and the challenges facing the country and the continent.

From the safety of women in South Africa to the barriers facing Black women in leadership, Dr Dlamini examines how history, inequality, institutional culture and leadership continue to shape people's lives.

Dr Judy Dlamini also reflects on her own experiences, the importance of understanding history, and why leadership should be viewed as a responsibility rather than simply a title.

Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi is in conversation with Ringo Madlingozi on 30 years since the release of his first album in 1996. From the origins of his distinctive sound and his early years in the Cape Flats to loss, survival, love, African unity and the changing South African music industry, Ringo reflects on the experiences that have shaped his music and career.

Ringo also reflects on the songs and albums that shaped his career, the experiences behind his music, and what it means to continue creating after three decades in the industry.

In conversation with George Galloway on South Africa, the anti-apartheid struggle, Nelson Mandela, international politics and the changing global landscape. Galloway reflects on his work with the ANC, the story behind Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday celebration at Wembley Stadium, and the role international solidarity played in South Africa’s liberation struggle.

*The views expressed in this conversation are those of the participants and are shared to encourage informed discussion and critical engagement.*

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In conversation with Carol Steinberg SC on the Nugent Commission and its investigation into the governance, leadership and institutional challenges that affected the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Eight years after the Nugent Commission’s report, this conversation examines what happened inside SARS, why public confidence and tax morality became concerns, the changes that took place under Tom Moyane, and the role of external consultants in the transformation of the organisation.

"South Africa Is Heading for a Crisis by 2050"

In conversation with Dr Pali Lehohla, on the major questions shaping South Africa’s future, from the economy and education to demographics, intellectual capital, long-term planning and the challenges facing future generations. Drawing on data, historical context and scenario planning, Dr Pali Lehohla examines how South Africa’s current trajectory could shape the country by 2050 and beyond. The conversation also looks at the legacy of the 1976 generation, the state of education, demographic change, birth registration and the importance of building intellectual and economic capacity.

In conversation with former Constitutional Court Justice Edwin Cameron on justice, crime, prisons, drugs, democracy and the future of South Africa.

Justice Cameron explains his argument for treating drug dependency primarily as a public health challenge rather than relying solely on criminal punishment. They explore the difference between decriminalisation and legalisation, the relationship between drug criminalisation and organised crime, and the difficult questions surrounding alcohol, addiction and public policy.

In conversation with Lindiwe Zulu on her experiences as a young South African, her journey into exile, her education in the Soviet Union, and her time at Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College.  The discussion also examines small business, entrepreneurship and the challenges facing township economies, before moving into broader questions about leadership, institutional processes, accountability and public service in South Africa.

In conversation with Prof. Zine Magubane on the history and sociology of women's struggles in South Africa, from the colonial period to the present.

The conversation examines the significance of the 1956 Women's March, the relationship between race, class and gender, and the different experiences of Black and white women under colonialism and apartheid. Prof. Magubane discusses how the apartheid system disrupted the Black family, transformed labour and household life, and shaped the conditions under which African women organised and struggled.

In conversation with Dr Naledi Pandor on the importance of education, the development of South Africa’s education system, teacher preparation, and the challenges that remain in building a stronger society.  

Dr Pandor reflects on her family’s intellectual and historical legacy, the influence of Z.K. Matthews and Nelson Mandela, her experiences in Parliament, and the debates that shaped South Africa’s constitutional order.