POWER Breakfast

South Africa’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the National Gambling Board (NGB) have launched a coordinated response to a growing crisis: tertiary students using their education allowances to gamble on online betting platforms. The partnership aims to protect students from gamblingrelated harm, safeguard public education funds, and promote responsible financial behaviour at universities and colleges across the country. Thabiso Tema spoke to The spokesperson is the National Gambling board Acting CEO, Lungile Dukwana.

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Panyaza Lesufi delivered the 2026 State of the Province Address at NASREC yesterday, highlighting the Gauteng Government’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and plans for the year ahead. Speaking before members of the legislature, political leaders, business representatives, and civil society, Lesufi emphasised the province’s commitment to socio- economic transformation, job creation, and improved service delivery. Thabiso Tema spoke to Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

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Recent public debate following parliamentary discussions on the employment of foreign nationals at universities has sparked concern that South Africa may be favouring international academics over local talent. In a country grappling with persistently high unemployment, such perceptions can quickly become politically charged. However, available data and the existing legal framework suggest that the narrative of widespread displacement is not supported by evidence. Thabiso Tema spoke to Professor Thandi Lewin DDG for University Education.

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South African law enforcement is under intense scrutiny after the Independent Police Investigative Directorate’s (IPID) 2024/25 annual report revealed that 97 members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) face allegations of sexual violence or rape nationwide. Thabiso Tema spoke to Dr Bandile Masuku Committee chair for The Gauteng Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety.

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Thabiso Tema in conversation with Hitekani Makamu 

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On Monday, a group of approximately 20 studentssubmitted a memorandum to the Dean of Student Affairs. Their primary demands included the universal registration of all students and a two-week extension of the current registration period. The Dean issued a formal response yesterday, clarifying that students must meet specific academic and eligibility criteria to qualify for funding. Thabiso Tema spoke to Ntyatyambo ZwelimangeleVolsaka, SASCO GJHB Deputy Chairperson and Shirona Patel, Wits Spokesperson.

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In a major step toward curbing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen announced that South Africa is set to receive a record-breaking delivery of one million vaccine dosesthis Saturday. Supplied by BioGenesis Bago, this shipment represents the largest single import of FMD vaccines in the country's history. Thabiso Tema spoke to Angus Williamson Vice Chairman of the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO).

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According to the latest Allianz Country Risk analysis, South Africa’s political risk profile is currently defined by a delicate balancing act within the Government of National Unity (GNU). While the formation of this coalition in 2024 provided a much-needed stabilizer for investor confidence, Allianz points out that deep-seated ideological divisions and historical polarization remain significant hurdles. Thabiso Tema spoke to Luke Morawitz, Country Manager for South Africa at Allianz Trade.

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Six years after President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a directive for lifestyle audits, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has yet to subject a single prosecutor to financial scrutiny. This prolonged delay has drawn sharp criticism from Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mamoloko Kubayi, who expressed deep concern over the agency's lack of transparency and the internal "pushback" preventing progress. Thabiso Tema spoke to Prof Somadoda Fikeni Chairperson of the Public Service Commission.

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On Tuesday, February 17th a mudslide at the 890-meter level of the Joint Shaft Mine in Kimberley, trapped five mineworkers. Ekapa Minerals confirmed that search and rescue operations remain ongoing following the "mud rush," with extensive drilling and dewatering activities currently underway. These efforts are being conducted under extremely challenging conditions, with all actions coordinated through established emergency response protocols to ensure the safety of rescue personnel remains a priority. Thabiso Tema spoke to MosepediSanane, National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Kimberley Regional Secretary.

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