Teenage pregnancy remains one of South Africa's most persistent social challenges, and the latest figures suggest the crisis is far from over. LoveLife says the number of teenage pregnancies continues to climb, with research published in the South African Medical Journal indicating that girls in rural communities are bearing the brunt of the problem. So, why are current interventions falling short, and what more needs to be done? 

Guest: Shaheda Omar: Clinic Director: Teddy Bear Foundation

Guest: Phelisa Mashiyi: Social Worker, Callas Foundation 

We've often spoken on this programme about the dangers faced by public servants who refuse to bend the rules. Now, those threats appear to be escalating. The City of Cape Town says it's dealing with a growing number of cases involving officials who are being intimidated simply for doing their jobs. It's raising serious questions about the safety of those tasked with upholding the law and protecting the public interest. 

Guest: JP Smith: MAYCO Member for Safety and Security

Imagine trying to run a social service organisation without knowing whether you'll have any funding. That's the reality facing dozens of NGOs in Gauteng. Seven months after submitting their business plans to the Gauteng Department of Social Development, many say they're still waiting for an answer. Their financial year started three months ago, but uncertainty continues to hang over the organisations that provide vital services to some of the province's most vulnerable communities. 

Guest: Nolusindiso Mhlauli-Mzimela, Executive Director of Ekupholeni

Guest: Lisa Vetten: research associate of the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies and a research consultant in the University of Johannesburg’s Faculty of Humanities,

As political parties gear up for the 2026 local government elections, they're also revealing who they believe should lead from the front. The Democratic Alliance has made its intentions clear in KwaZulu-Natal, confirming that Chris Pappas will once again be its mayoral candidate for the uMngeni Local Municipality. The announcement comes as campaigning begins to gather momentum ahead of the 4 November polls. 

Guest: Chris Pappas: Democratic Alliance mayoral candidate for the uMngeni Local Municipality in Kwazulu Natal

Dr Dimitri Liakos, plastic and reconstructive surgeon at WDGMC with fellowship training in
reconstructive microsurgery and super microsurgery speaks to Joanne Joseph about the innovative surgery that helped a 12-year old living with Moebius syndrome

Dr Imran Keeka, KZN Legislature Health Portfolio Chairperson gives Joanne Joseph feedback on the crisis at Usher Memorial Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal. 

Joanne Joseph profiles Retang Phaahla, Co-founder of Setšong Tea Crafters and 2025 Bold Woman Award winner and  Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi, Founder and CEO of Hazile Group and recipient of the 2025 Bold Future Award

Nqobile Ndlovu, Sports Business Researcher & Founder Of Cash N Sport speaks to Joanne Joseph about Fun Valley which was meant to be a high performance centre for football development 

Howard Ndaba, Free State Education spokesperson answers questions around the reconstruction of \Western Holdings Primary school in Welkom

Nthabiseng Dubazana Director at Dubazana Attorneys speaks to Joanne Joseph about the KZN government  clamping down on landlords housing illegal immigrants