In just the first three months of 2026, South African consumers have experienced a sharp shift in their financial reality. Rising fuel prices, increasing food costs, and the likelihood of higher transport fares are placing households under growing pressure. President Cyril Ramaphosa has now tasked a team of ministers to urgently assess ways to cushion the blow—but for many, the cost-of-living crisis is already being felt. 

Guest: Wendy Knowler: Consumer Journalist

The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has rapidly escalated into a major geopolitical and economic crisis, with global oil supplies, international alliances, and regional stability all under strain. U.S. President Donald Trumphas taken an increasingly aggressive stance—both toward Iran and traditional allies like the UK and France—while warning of further military escalation if Tehran does not agree to a deal. At the center of the crisis is the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments now under threat.

Guest: Anthoni van Nieuwkerk is a professor of International and Diplomacy Studies at the Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs

As South Africans head into the Easter period, many households are facing a very different financial reality compared to previous years. Rising food prices, increasing fuel costs, and ongoing economic pressure mean that even small seasonal expenses can strain already tight budgets. Financial experts, including Ester Ochse, are urging consumers to plan ahead, spend intentionally, and avoid unnecessary debt to ensure a meaningful Easter without long-term financial stress. 

Guest: Ester Ochse: Product Head of Integrated Advice at FNB

South Africa’s water and sanitation sector is facing a deepening crisis, according to the latest Green Drop, Blue Drop, and No Drop reports released by the Department of Water and Sanitation. The findings reveal widespread deterioration in wastewater systems, ongoing risks to water quality, and persistent inefficiencies—raising serious concerns about public health, environmental safety, and service delivery. Minister Pemmy Majodina has described the report as a “decisive moment” demanding urgent action. 

Guest: David Mahlobo: Deputy Minister, The Department of Water & Sanitation 

Tensions have flared in South Africa’s Eastern Cape following a controversial event involving the alleged coronation of an Igbo community leader, prompting protests, violence, and diplomatic intervention. The Nigerian High Commission has since issued an apology and distanced itself from the incident, stressing that no official coronation took place. The situation highlights sensitive issues around immigration, traditional authority, and social cohesion in South Africa. 

Guest: Dr ABC Okokoh: President: Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo South Africa 

South Africa is facing a sharp fuel price shock driven by global geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict affecting oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz. In response, government has introduced a temporary fuel levy cut to cushion motorists. While this provides short-term relief, economists like Dawie Roodt warn that such interventions may come with long-term costs for consumers and the broader economy. 

Guest: Dawie Roodt: Chief Economist Efficient Group

South Africa is launching a renewed, large-scale security intervention in the Western Cape, as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) joins the South African Police Service (SAPS) to combat escalating crime on the Cape Flats. The deployment, under Operation Prosper, reflects growing urgency to address gang violence, illegal firearms, and organised crime in some of the country’s most affected communities. 

The Jacob Zuma Foundation says a recent ruling by the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg is not the final chapter in the legal battle involving former presidents Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki. The court dismissed their application to remove Justice Sisi Khampepe as chair of a judicial commission, but the matter may still proceed on appeal.  

Guest: Mzwanele Manyi: Zuma Foundation Spokesperson