First ladies across the globe have the ability to impact change through their influence and advocacy on important issues. First Lady is not defined in African constitutions. The lack of definition in federal law leaves First Ladies with no specific assignments and responsibilities, which, as a result, are left for each president and his spouse´s interpretation. It can be argued that, for accountability purposes, this uncertainty is not helping, as there is no clear line to subject them (First Ladies) too. However, since the role itself has been influenced and shaped throughout the history by changes in the society, public attitudes, and First Ladies themselves, perhaps it would be appropriate to highlight that First Ladyship in today’s Africa necessitates some revamping in order to fit in well with the 21st century era and the challenges and demands of the new Africa. In this week’s edition of the masterclass, we talk about the role, powers, and influence of the First Lady. Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg Dr Chidochashe Nyere joins Lerato Mbele for the conversation.

<p>First ladies across the globe have the ability to impact change through their influence and advocacy on important issues. First Lady is not defined in African constitutions. The lack of definition in federal law leaves First Ladies with no specific assignments and responsibilities, which, as a result, are left for each president and his spouse´s interpretation. It can be argued that, for accountability purposes, this uncertainty is not helping, as there is no clear line to subject them (First Ladies) too. However, since the role itself has been influenced and shaped throughout the history by changes in the society, public attitudes, and First Ladies themselves, perhaps it would be appropriate to highlight that First Ladyship in today’s Africa necessitates some revamping in order to fit in well with the 21st century era and the challenges and demands of the new Africa. In this week’s edition of the masterclass, we talk about the role, powers, and influence of the First Lady. Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg Dr Chidochashe Nyere joins Lerato Mbele for the conversation.</p>

POWER Talk is a mid-morning talk show programme, hosted by Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. The show delves deeper into the news of the day along with larger societal themes, inviting listeners to help unpack issues on the day’s current affairs agenda and topics close to their hearts. Ndlozi also interviews the biggest newsmakers and experts in South Africa, helping listeners make sense of their world.

<p>POWER Talk is a mid-morning talk show programme, hosted by Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. The show delves deeper into the news of the day along with larger societal themes, inviting listeners to help unpack issues on the day&rsquo;s current affairs agenda and topics close to their hearts. Ndlozi also interviews the biggest newsmakers and experts in South Africa, helping listeners make sense of their world.</p>