“In what seems a lifetime ago, I hosted a radio show on 702. Under instruction from a highly paid consultant to take calls from listeners, we relied on what were known as “talkers” – topics known to ignite conversation to fill any dead air. There’s nothing that unnerves a radio host quite as much as lifeless phone lines. Capital and corporal punishment, the “situation” in the Middle East, and anything to do with astrology were among the topics considered bankers. These days it seems any mention of baboons is likely to generate the TV equivalent of a talker and, as was the case decades ago, not all of it will be rational.” – John Webb, Executive Producer
People vs Primates
In Simon’s Town and Kommetjie in the Western Cape, residents are facing off against a familiar opponent: baboons. For years, both communities have tolerated the growing numbers of baboons moving around the villages in search of food. But, over time, tensions between people and these primates have reached boiling point. The baboons have become so habituated to living in town that they no longer fear people. Several homeowners have reported baboons breaking into their houses, looking for food. Some parents say their children are too afraid to play outside in their gardens. This is a crisis that’s been decades in the making and it’s pitting neighbour against neighbour as frustrated residents turn on each other.
Producer: Liz Fish | Presenter: Govan Whittles
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.
Producer: Busisiwe Gumede-Chizhanje| Presenter: Macfarlane Moleli
The Blind Tour Guide
In the heart of Salt River in Cape Town, tour guide Winston Fani leads a group of eager tourists on a two-hour walking expedition. It’s a unique experience, not simply because of the giant artworks and local art studios that visitors get to enjoy, but also because Winston is completely blind. He was born partially sighted but, in his early teens, lost his sight entirely. Since then, he’s learnt to adapt to the world around him. By counting steps between stops, talking to the artists and creating a whole new language to describe the attractions through his blind eyes, Winston has become a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Producer: Diana Lucas | Presenter: Masa Kekana
CARTE BLANCHE: THE PODCAST
SOE to the Rescue?
Beware the lemon… A cautionary tale when it comes to buying a second-hand car. Then, another state-owned enterprise – this time to tackle our water woes. Also, how exploding pagers and walkie-talkies pave the way for a new kind of warfare. Later, how the world’s smelliest fruit is contributing to skyrocketing coffee prices. And the wheels of justice turn slowly – but at least, they’re turning. But first, just over two weeks into its existence, the two-pot retirement fund has already led to billions of rands making its way back into the economy.
PICKS OF THE WEEK
KZN Police Fightback
He’s a former member of one of the most feared elite units in the police, a no-nonsense officer with a reputation for straight talking. Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has adopted that no-nonsense approach in his job as KZN’s Police Commissioner. And in one of the most violent provinces in the country, it’s an approach that’s winning him many admirers. But his time in office has coincided with a reported increase in fatal police shootings, leading some critics to ask whether the Commissioner’s heavy-handed approach is setting a dangerous example.
Granny Grommets
It’s an early Friday morning on Nahoon Beach in the Eastern Cape, and Susan Matthee and her best friend, Riana Swanepoel, are stepping outside their normal routine. Stripping off their vintage jewellery and silk scarves, Susan and Riana don their wetsuits and strap boogie boards to their wrists to catch the morning wave. And they aren’t alone. They belong to a group of dozens of women – all over 50 – who aren’t content with settling into stereotypical hobbies for the elderly. Looking for a little action and excitement, they’ve committed themselves to doing something out-of-the-box in their twilight years. They call themselves the Granny Grommets: elderly amateur boogie boarders with a taste for adventure. Carte Blanche caught some waves with these senior citizens.
UPDATE: Cyber Pirates
Cybercrime and piracy are a growing problem in our country. The technology is more sophisticated than ever before, and criminals are selling stolen movies, music and television shows at a fraction of the price. Even live sports like football and rugby haven’t been spared the clutches of illicit streamers. Last year, we investigated the growing piracy black market, focusing on an illegal app that provided access to hundreds of channels. We give you an update on that ongoing investigation.
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