Coming Up On Carte Blanche 19 January 2025

“Here’s some inside information for you: despite repeated requests, Stellenbosch University declined an on-camera interview and, instead, suggested a written statement would suffice. It was a position as frustrating as it was surprising. Surely, on an issue of such substantial public interest – where the lives of students were literally at stake – a sit-down conversation would have been the only appropriate response? That’s why we door-stopped the Vice Chancellor and, despite having been accused by him of unprofessional behaviour, we’d do it again if we had to.” – John Webb, Executive Producer

Stellenbosch Police Failures

In October last year, Carte Blanche investigated the emergence of a disturbing crime trend in Stellenbosch: the abductions and muggings of university students. Just days before the broadcast, a Stellenbosch University student, 19-year-old Jesse Mitchell, was murdered. He was cycling home in the early hours of the morning after working on a project with fellow students when he was attacked, robbed of his backpack and cell phone, and stabbed in the neck. He died within minutes. Had university authorities and the police done more to inform students of the dangers surrounding them, could Jesse’s murder have been avoided? Sources reveal that petty crime in the picturesque town has been escalating for months, with parts of Stellenbosch demarcated as crime hotspots. The targets: university students. And the police response leaves much to be desired. In one case, a violent mugging reported to the police station in April 2024 was closed the very next day with no further contact from the investigating officer. In this investigation, Carte Blanche uncovers how Stellenbosch police are apparently failing to properly investigate these crimes, and how the university failed to adequately alert students to the surging crime wave.

Producer: Catherine Rice | Presenter: Lourensa Eckard

A Frozen Masterpiece

In the heart of Sweden’s Lapland, a mythical wonder emerges each European winter: the world-renowned Ice Hotel. Sculpted from blocks of pristine ice and snow, this boutique hotel is an architectural marvel that exists only temporarily, melting away each spring before its spectacular rebirth in the frosty embrace of winter. Each year, designers from around the globe submit proposals for a chance to transform one of its rooms into a work of art. Last December, South African designer Corban Warrington achieved a rare honour, becoming only the second African in 35 years to contribute to this iconic project. His design, titled Yesterday’s Tomorrow, seamlessly fuses South African heritage with Arctic aesthetics, crafting a spectacular piece of art in a paradoxical union of steam and ice. Carte Blanche joined Corban in the Arctic as he breathed life into his design with picks and shovels.

Producer & Presenter: Nickolaus Bauer

NOW STREAMING

Komani in the Dark

Komani, formerly known as Queenstown, in the Eastern Cape is a town we’ve visited many times before. For years, prolonged power and water outages have driven its frustrated residents onto the streets in protest. But sadly, it seems no one is paying attention. Komani’s infrastructure continues to deteriorate. Since 2020, the municipality’s Eskom debt has skyrocketed from R350 million to an eye-watering R1.4 billion. Most of what’s left of the municipality’s money after salaries are paid is used to service debt, leaving very little for critical service delivery. And not even the most critically ill patients at the historic Frontier Provincial Hospital have been spared the impact.

Watch Now

Taken for a Ride

There’s a little-known municipality in the Free State infamous for alleged mismanagement, questionable tender practices and unapproved expenditure. But even measured against that low bar, the alleged wild spending of the area’s mayor has raised eyebrows. It’s claimed she spent close to R100 000 on a rented vehicle and fuel – in just one month. The municipality may be small, but this story demonstrates how some public servants continue to thumb their noses at law-abiding, taxpayers.

Sneak Peak

NEWS AND VIEWS

She is Mother

Time Out’s annual list of the world’s best cities to visit was published this week and topping list is the Mother City! Over 18 500 people from across the globe were asked to rate their cities based on food, culture, nightlife, affordability, happiness and livability – Capetonians scored their city highly across the board. In total, 97 percent felt Cape Town made them truly happy. So, here are a few reasons why Cape Town has made us smile in recent months.

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.

Watch Again

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.

Watch Again

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.

Watch Again


JOIN THE #CARTEBLANCHE CONVERSATION

Please note: Carte Blanche line-ups are subject to change. Stories can be viewed at www.carteblanche.co.za

Facebook: Carte Blanche #CarteBlanche
Twitter / X: @carteblanchetv #CarteBlanche
Instagram: @carteblanchetv #CarteBlanche
Youtube: carteblancheTV #CarteBlanche
TikTok: @carteblanchetv101
Threads: carteblanchetv

By Andrew Germishuys

Founder of SAMDB | Actor | Armourer | Tech Enthusiast With over two decades in the film industry, I'm a seasoned actor and skilled armourer. I hold numerous certifications in acting and filmmaking, complemented by degrees and diplomas in IT and technology, giving me a unique blend of creative and technical expertise. When I'm not on set or in the workshop, you'll find me immersed in the world of gaming and VR, fuelling my passion for cutting-edge technology. Connect with me: X / Twitter Facebook Instagram Mastodon Threads Explore my work on SAMDB IMDb