AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Are We Replacing Therapists with AI? Has ChatGPT Become South Africa's New Counsellor?

More and more South Africans are turning to artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for advice on anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief and even major life decisions. It's free, available 24 hours a day, and unlike therapy, there's no waiting list. But mental health professionals are…

“Mind–Body Connection: The Power Through Thought.”

Today we explore the inspiring topic, “Mind–Body Connection: The Power Through Thought.” Joining us is Pratiba Daya, National Coordinator of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University. She will share insights on how our thoughts shape our emotions, health, and overall well-being, and how positiv…

Another Deadly Initiation Season: Why Are Young Men Still Dying? ( Dr. Tshimangadzo Edward Mafadza is the Chief Executive Officer )

The winter initiation season is meant to mark the journey from boyhood to manhood, but for dozens of South African families, it has instead become a season of mourning. The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has confirmed that 43 initiates have died during this year's wint…

R7.3 Billion in Debt, Just R2 Billion in the Bank: Is Ekurhuleni Running Out of Money? ( INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALIST MODIBE MODIBA HAS BEEN TRACKING THIS STORY )

Imagine owing more than three times the amount of money you have in your bank account. That's the reality facing the City of Ekurhuleni, which reportedly owes R7.3 billion while holding just R2 billion in available cash. Critics warn that the city's financial position threatens essential services, …

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: A Bigger Claims Limit, But Will It Deliver Real Justice?

For years, many South Africans have simply walked away from money owed to them because taking someone to court often costs more than the claim itself. Whether it's an unpaid debt, a landlord refusing to return a deposit, a contractor who took your money and disappeared, or a business that breached …

Poet, Activist... Mayor? Ntsiki Mazwai's Political Leap

For years, she's been one of South Africa's loudest and most unapologetic voices. Whether she's taking on politicians, challenging social norms, or sparking fierce debates on social media, Ntsiki Mazwai has never been afraid to tell those in power exactly where they're getting it wrong. But now, sh…

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Poison in the Pot: The Hidden Danger Lurking in Cheap Cookware

For many South Africans, buying an affordable cooking pot from a roadside trader or informal market is simply a matter of survival. When you're feeding a family on a tight budget, spending hundreds or even thousands of rands on branded cookware isn't an option. But health experts are now warning th…

IDAC Under Pressure: Can South Africa's Anti-Corruption Watchdog Deliver? ( Dr Jean Redpath, Senior Researcher at the Dullah Omar Institute )

Over the past year, the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has been positioned as South Africa's answer to tackling high-level corruption and restoring public confidence in the justice system. But instead of only pursuing corruption, the institution now finds itself at the centre of …

Can Frank Chikane Rescue Johannesburg? ( Political Analyst, Prof Boitumelo Senokoane )

Johannesburg could soon have one of South Africa's most respected struggle veterans at the helm. Reverend Frank Chikane, anti-apartheid activist, former Director-General in the Presidency and church leader, is reportedly the African National Congress' preferred candidate to become the party's mayor…

AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Unsafe to Serve? Public Protector Exposes Deep Failures in School Feeding Programme

South Africans were promised that after last year's devastating food poisoning tragedy that claimed the lives of dozens of children, every possible step would be taken to protect learners. Yet today, the Public Protector has laid bare a picture of neglect that is nothing short of alarming. Advocate…