“Our story on South Africans seeking asylum in Ireland is timeous: it comes amid the concerning rise in anti-foreigner sentiment spread by organisations like Operation Dudula and March and March, and a similar anti-immigration mindset taking root in Europe. It’s indicative of the times we live in that, while many fight to stay in South Africa, others are resisting their repatriation tooth and nail.” – John Webb, Executive Producer
Borderline Claims
Are South Africans fleeing danger, or gaming Europe’s asylum system? In the last decade, thousands of South Africans have sought asylum in Ireland. They claim they’re fleeing gang violence, crime and discrimination. But South Africa is officially listed as a safe country of origin by Ireland. As refugees face pushback from movements protesting provision of scarce housing and government resources to immigrants, some families now face deportation. Are genuine victims falling through the cracks of a rigid system, or are some South Africans exploiting legal grey areas in an over-stretched asylum system?
Producer & Presenter: Nickolaus Bauer
Shadow King
A story of murder and corruption, a king in exile, and a community fighting for its ancestral land. In the Platinum Belt, the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela were once poised to be one of the country’s wealthiest communities. Forced from their land under colonialism and apartheid, they hoped for economic development under the new government in 1994. Instead, billions continue to flow from luxury resorts and mines on Bakgatla land, allegedly siphoned by political elites led by a tribal appointee accused of betraying the crown and forcing the King into exile. Now, the Bakgatla are fighting to reclaim their land, expose corruption, and restore what was stolen.
Producer: Anina Peens | Presenter: Erin Bates
Marimba Jam
Over 1 000 people – mostly school-aged – gather to challenge the world record for the largest group of marimba players making music together. They are from vastly different backgrounds, but they find common bonds through the instrument they share. Behind the attempt is a female-driven social enterprise that has created a decade-long musical outreach through the marimba. Meanwhile, in a small factory, players-turned-manufacturers rush to build instruments for the record attempt. And at the centre of it all is a beloved instrument creating unity through harmony.
Producer: Marion Edmunds | Presenter: Erin Bates
NOW STREAMING
Tainted Treats
Our next story is one of the most surprising investigations our team has ever undertaken. At its heart is a Limpopo company that sells what it claims are edible colours and glitters. Exactly the sort of thing a baking enthusiast would use to make their cupcakes Instagram-worthy. But insiders told us that all was not as it seemed in this world of sweet confectionery. So, our crew set out to uncover the secrets beneath the frosting. Get the full two-part investigation now on the DStv Stream app.
Jozi Jacuzzi
Municipalities across the country are struggling to provide the most basic services. Sometimes, the only way to avoid crying about it all is to have a laugh. So, when a years-old leak transformed a Joburg street corner into a lap pool, Macfarlane put on his wet suit and took the plunge. Find the full story on the DStv Stream app.
NEWS & VIEWS
Terrorised by Taxis
It’s a never-ending battle: taxi operators versus motorists. Now, in some parts of Gauteng, taxi associations are shifting gears and redirecting their anger at motorists who share rides with their colleagues, friends or family. As they battle to maintain an iron grip on the public transport market, taxi operators say that carpooling and lift clubs are impacting their bottom line, robbing them of potential clients. And, as the threats escalate, all motorists with more than one passenger in their vehicle could become targets.
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