“We’re calling it ‘Canary in the Coal Mine’ but ‘Homebound Chickens’ would be equally apt. How long was it likely to be before we felt the impact of the unrealistic wage deals struck with public sector unions? Granted, government departments routinely guilty of wasting the money allocated to them by Treasury can hardly point a finger at public servants, but the largesse is returning to bite us all on our collective bum.” – John Webb, Executive Producer
Canary in the Coal Mine
Last year, national government signed off on a public servants wage agreement that the country simply couldn’t afford. Under pressure from trade unions, government increased its already overburdened wage bill, pushing the cost of the shortfall onto provincial budgets. Now provinces have been forced to cut their budgets, slashing personnel numbers and plunging service delivery further into crisis. Already overstretched, the public health and education sectors in the Western Cape have been dealt a devastating blow, and they’re not afraid to say it. Carte Blanche examines the developing crisis and asks: is the Western Cape the canary in the coal mine?
Producer: Marion Edmunds | Presenter: Govan Whittles
Another Kettle of Fish
Decaying fish line the banks of the Klipvoor Dam. It might look like a free meal for cormorants and fish eagles, but the dam – once home to hundreds of indigenous fish species – has become dangerously polluted. New research shows that the Apies River, which flows from Pretoria into the dam, is full of pharmaceutical drugs including antidepressants, as well as cocaine and tik. But that hasn’t stopped criminal syndicates from poaching the fish and selling it for human consumption. Now, unsuspecting consumers are eating fish that could pose serious health risks. Carte Blanche joins an anti-poaching unit on patrol.
Producer: Anina Peens | Presenter: Macfarlane Moleli
Boys to Men
Four out of five boys in South Africa grow up without a positive male role model. The consequences can be devastating: low self-esteem, poor academic performance, and depression. But a non-profit is trying to change that. The Character Company provides mentors for boys across South Africa, changing their lives and futures. On the outskirts of Cape Town, Carte Blanche meets some of these men and the children whose lives have been positively impacted by the movement.
Producer: Catherine Rice | Presenter: Macfarlane Moleli
CARTE BLANCHE: THE PODCAST
Conflict Resolution
Budget cuts threaten to decimate our already fragile education sector. Later, express kidnappings are on the rise – we look at the stats. Then, a national hero – why rape survivor Alison Botha needs your help. And it’s bye-bye Karpowership! But first, more than 100 days in, our government of national unity is teetering on the edge as various political parties struggle to meet each other halfway. From the highly controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill to National Health Insurance – powersharing roleplayers just can’t see eye-to-eye. So, can a newly formed conflict resolution committee be the GNU’s saving grace?
PICKS OF THE WEEK
Stellenbosch Student Abductions
It’s a summer night in peaceful, picturesque Stellenbosch and students are taking to the streets to party with their friends. But beneath the surface of this typical weekend scene, danger lurks. A group of girls walking home together realise that a car is following them. A couple taking in the view at the nearby Franschhoek Pass are bundled into the back of a car. Hours later, parents receive a frightening demand: money, or we kill your son. From muggings to abductions, violent crime in Stellenbosch is on the rise. What will it take to protect students?
Louis Liebenberg’s Forever Diamonds
We reported on Louis Liebenberg’s Forever Diamonds investment scheme back in 2020. By then, it was alleged that Liebenberg owed several investors millions in unpaid returns. In July 2021, the so-called diamond dealer had R100 million in assets frozen by the NPA following allegations of money laundering and running a multi-level marketing scheme. Then, on 22 October this year, Liebenberg, his wife Dezzi, and seven others were arrested on various charges including fraud, money laundering, theft and racketeering. Police confirmed more arrests are likely to follow.
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.
Yandisa the Penguin Ranger
On Robben Island, the small colony of African Penguins is often difficult to spot. Worldwide, global warming has taken its toll on this endangered species, its impact most evident in the birds’ dwindling numbers – even on this island haven. The surviving colony has become an iconic feature, with visitors strictly prohibited from accessing their position. In fact, Yandisa Cwecwe is one of only a handful of people who’ve been granted unfettered access. She’s the island’s lone penguin ranger, her sole purpose is to look after the penguins… and she isn’t giving up on their survival just yet. Every morning, Yandisa collects crucial data for researchers and ensures the safety and security of the remaining breeding pairs that call the island home.
The Black Mermaid
The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface, making it the largest living space on our planet. It’s a vast world, largely unexplored, and has the ability to both soothe and terrify. Embracing both these on a daily basis is Zandile Ndlovu, lovingly known by many as The Black Mermaid. Conservationist, activist, filmmaker, author, and South Africa’s first black female freediving instructor, Zandi has now added one more title to her long list of achievements – penguin warrior. We sit down with this formidable woman of the water to find out more about life under the sea, embracing fear, saving penguins, and changing lives.
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