Algoa FM

Ray Hartle grew up in Gelvandale, Gqeberha. He holds BJourn, honours and master’s degrees from Rhodes University in Makhanda. Hartle worked as a journalist from 1984 for publications such as Grocott’s Mail in Makhanda, and the Herald, Evening Post and Weekend Post in Gqeberha. In 1994, Hartle transitioned from journalism into corporate communications, returning to journalism with East London’s Daily Dispatch from 2013 to 2021. Following his heart transplant in 2016, he wrote extensively about healthcare and especially about heart transplantation. He is a fierce advocate of ethical decision-making by leaders in every sphere, of patient-centred healthcare, and for equity in the availability of heart transplant treatment in South Africa. Hartle lives in East London with his wife Belinda and cats Blossom, Daisy and Zuzu. He sat down with Charlie T to discuss his recently published book ‘Memoir of a Fractured Heart’.

Farmersweekly.co.za reports that South African agricultural organisations have welcomed key measures in Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s 2026 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBS) on 21 October, including a R10 billion fuel levy intervention, the additional funding for agricultural extension services, and infrastructure investment. While Minister Godongwana’s announcement offers some relief to farmers, agricultural organisations nevertheless warn that poor infrastructure, weak municipal management, and the effects of El Niño remain major risks to profitability and growth. The outlook raises concerns for the 2026/27 agricultural production season, with potential drought conditions threatening crops, livestock, and grazing.

Protected production provides greater control over growing conditions, but success still depends on healthy plants, sound management, and access to viable markets. This was the message from speakers at the Western Cape Undercover Farming Conference and Expo, held in Groot Drakenstein on 21 and 22 October. Tshogo fatso Matlala, a water and sustainable agriculture graduate trainee at GreenCape, said undercover farming infrastructure should be treated as a productive investment rather than merely protection against climate and production risks. Matlala estimated that undercover production represented a potential 5,4 billion Rand to 8,6 billion Rand investment opportunity, spanning shade netting and more intensive tunnel infrastructure.

And…South Africa’s groundnut industry ended the 2026 season on a high note, with improved yields, favourable prices, and renewed investment in cultivar development setting the stage for further growth. However, concerns over a developing El Niño are dampening prospects for the coming season. According to the Crop Estimates Committee’s September 2026 report, groundnut production was estimated at 65 620t, an increase of 3,6% from the 63 350t produced in 2025. This was despite a decline in the area planted, from 48 750ha to 44 650ha. Average yields increased from 1,30t/ha to 1,47t/ha. Adri Botha, chairperson of the South African Groundnut Forum, said that favourable rainfall had been the main driver of improved yields, with some farmers achieving exceptional results.

This jam-packed edition also tackled the legality of keeping wildlife, concerns around Kariega Hospital, and safety issues in Baakens Valley.

Sindiswa Binqela is the hard working founder of this day care centre in the Eastern Cape town of Peddie. The focus is on early childhood development, the provision of a safe space and good nutrition for children aged 0-6 years. Find out how you can assist this NPO. Kaycee Rossouw

Praise for South Africa from the International Monetary Fund, gas-to-fuel bids fail, and Heineken reviews its SA wine business.

Morocco overtakes SA on most attractive investment list, the DA wants a parliamentary probe into deal linking the sale of Ticketpro to Patriotic Alliance associates, and SAA Acting CEO guilty on four charges.

Mom Chantel, Dad Lennon, and daughter, Heylé Fisher, open up about having to face every parent's worst nightmare. The inspiring Fisher family will be joining us this Saturday as together we make every step count in the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer Presented by ISUZU Motors South Africa! Algoa FM Breakfast with Wayne, Lee and Charlie T

Turnaround at Pick n Pay gaining traction, SAA still facing hurdles, and credit rating agencies weigh in on budget.

This East London-based four-piece blues/rock band is ready to rock your world with their unique sound! Kaycee caught up with the group's Matthew Willows and got the story behind their their catchy new single,'Wild Child.' Kaycee Rossouw

SARS 'coming for' booze and smoke businesses and plans for SA to become a global financial centre.