Thabiso Tema was in conversation with South African journalist who has been editor-in-chief of City Press since 2016, Mondli Makhanya

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Today the world celebrates the lasting impact of radio as a vital tool for news, learning, and fun. First established by UNESCO in 2011 and officially recognized by the UN General Assembly in 2012, this day honors radio’s special knack for bringing people together. Whether it's through sharing local stories or sparking global conversations, radio remains a powerful bridge between different cultures and communities. Thabiso Tema spoke to Mothibi Ramusi ICASA Chairperson.  

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Johannesburg is currently gripped by a severe and worsening water crisis, leaving residents to endure weeks of dry taps and escalating desperation. This prolonged failure of basic service delivery has ignited a wave of public protests, as communities demand immediate accountability from both the City of Johannesburg and the bulk water supplier, Rand Water. Thabiso Tema spoke to Jack Sekwaila MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD).

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Following his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) last night in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be deployed to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in tackling rising levels of organised crime, gang violence, and illegal mining in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces. Ramaphosa described organised crime as “the most immediate threat to our democracy, our society and our economic development,” warning that criminal networks have evolved into powerful, mafia-style syndicates that directly undermine the state, the economy, and community safety. Thabiso Tema spoke to Prof Witness Maluleke, Head of Department: Criminology and Criminal Justice of University of Limpopo.

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Gauteng Education Transport Services (GETS) has issued a formal notice to parents and guardians regarding a planned scholar transport shutdown scheduled for today, 13 February 2026. This service suspension will affect both GETS-affiliated operators and non-affiliates throughout the Gauteng Province. The organization has organized this action to address critical challenges facing the industry, including regulatory uncertainties and operational requirements that impact the safety and sustainability of learner transport. Thabiso Tema spoke to Pilane Ramarutsi - Deputy General Secretary Gauteng Education Transport Service (GETS).

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In a major push to reclaim the streets, SAPS will conduct Operation Shanela today in a crackdown on the violent crime wave gripping Eldorado Park. Situated on the south-western edge of Soweto, the township is struggling under a massive influx of drugs that has fuelled a brutal territorial gang violence between two rival gangs: the Varados and the Fast Guns. Thabiso Tema spoke to Shaquill Kasan Community Leader in the Housing Portfolio Gauteng Housing Crisis Committee (GHCC) and Isaac Sayed ATAAM Holdings Provides free Security for councillors and community of greater Eldorado Park.

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The stage is set for a high-stakes State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2026, a year where the political landscape has shifted from a single-party dominant system to the complex, often friction-filled reality of the Government of National Unity (GNU). As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to take the podium at the Cape Town City Hall, he does so under the shadow of his own 2025 "Grand Promise"—a commitment to turn the GNU from a fragile political experiment into a "delivery machine" for jobs, energy security, and radical infrastructure growth. Thabiso Tema spoke to Sinawo Thambo – EFF National Spokesperson and Abel Tau – MK Party Gauteng Spokesperson.

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Vodacom Business, Affordable Connectivity & Digital Transformation for Education South Africa’s education sector is rapidly moving toward a more digital future but for many schools, universities, and learners, the cost of data remains one of the biggest barriers to accessing online learning. With more teaching, homework, assessments, administration, and student support services taking place online, reliable and affordable data has become a critical part of the learning experience. Recognising this challenge, Vodacom Business has stepped in as a key partner in driving digital transformation across basic and higher education. Thabiso Tema spoke to Mncedisi Mayekiso Managing Executive: Direct Sales for Vodacom Business and Samantha Pillay Acting Executive Head for Vodacom Business.

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The relationship between the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and South African universities reveals a systemic "triangular" tension between the funder (NSFAS), the institutions, and the students. Thabiso Tema spoke to Waseem Carrim NSFAS Acting CEO.

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TT in conversation with  Rirange Tshimange.

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