If These Walls Could Talk: Watch Carte Blanche, this Sunday 9 January 2022 at 19:00, only on M-Net
R E P O R T A G E
Parliamentary Pyre
Who would set fire to South Africa’s historic Houses of Parliament – and why? With the chamber of the National Assembly going up in smoke after an intruder allegedly set it ablaze, the nation watched in disbelief as the police’s only suspect appeared in court for arson, housebreaking, theft, and charges under the Explosives and the National Key Points acts. Carte Blanche explores parliament’s significance through the eyes of media correspondents who report on the work of an institution now forever changed.
Producer: Liz Fish | Researchers: Siniketiwe Hlanze & Sinethemba Nogude | Presenter: Masa Kekana
I N V E S T I G A T I O N S
Derek Watts: “We hear about poaching of our precious animals in South Africa, and around the continent, and often see the tragic results. But we don’t often hear the stories of poorly equipped rangers putting their lives on the line to fight sophisticated syndicates. During the pandemic, international filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert decided to follow these men and women’s gruelling journeys through the wild.”
Poaching Pandemic
With global tourism on lockdown during the pandemic, grounded flights and closed game parks meant game rangers were furloughed in large numbers – placing Africa’s wildlife at heightened risk. Carte Blanche tracks the plight of rangers at the front, battling the escalating onslaught of organised crime – tiny teams taking on the job of soldiers, bravely holding the line.
Producer: Joy Summers | Presenter: Derek Watts
Child Mothers
Teen pregnancies are a global phenomenon, affecting families who can least afford to cope. During lockdown, South Africa recorded an increase in gender-based violence – often resulting in unwanted teenage pregnancies. Health services were also diverted to the care of COVID-19 patients, meaning young girls had to cope with giving birth and caring for infants while still at school. Is South Africa doing anything to keep our girls safe?
Producer: Mosibudi Ratlebjane| Presenter: Masa Kekana
Coming Up for Air
Gauteng: the hub of the South African economy. But at what cost? For years, its citizens have paid the price for the deadly fallout of its air pollution. From radioactive fallout to sulphur dioxide emissions carried in tiny dust particles, many Gauteng residents are falling ill under a toxic blanket of dirty air. In winter, some Gauteng cities rank amongst the top 20 most polluted in the world. What silent killers are hiding in the murky layers of its sky? We take a toxic tour around the province to find out.
Producer: Sophia Phirippides | Presenter: Masa Kekana
Please note: Carte Blanche line-ups are subject to change. Stories can be viewed at www.carteblanche.co.za
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