“You would think after 38 years of Carte Blanche that very little about our investigations would surprise us. But sadly, for the good of society, that’s not always true – and Sunday’s exposé is a case in point. It began as a probe into allegations of dodgy baking supplies, but turned into something far more sinister. It also involves one of the more, shall we say, colourful characters we have encountered in our more than three decades on air.” – John Webb, Executive Producer
Joburg Jacuzzi
Cape Town offers early morning tidal plunges, but Joburg has its own massive open-air jacuzzi: free, accessible, with clean water gushing out 24 hours a day. It started life as a pothole a few years ago, but it’s steadily grown from a tiny trickle to a major burst pipe. Today, it covers an entire lane. What will it take to get this one burst pipe fixed? Who has tried, who failed, and who is up to the task? We dive into Randburg’s deepest pool – ahem, pothole – and fish for answers.
Producer: Kate Barry | Presenter: Macfarlane Moleli
Tainted Treats
It began as an investigation into dodgy baking supplies, but soon appeared to take a more sinister turn. The colours and cake decorations that one Limpopo company is supplying to local and international consumers are sold as edible and non-toxic – but is that really the case? Then, as Carte Blanche dug deeper, former employees came forward with disturbing allegations of sexual harassment and assault. Now, the alleged victims have sworn to expose the dark secrets behind this world of sweet confectionery.
Producer: Joy Summers | Presenter: Lourensa Eckard
Chapters
After closing to the public for half a decade, the Johannesburg Library has finally opened its doors once more. For five long years, 1.5 million books – including rare and valuable archives – were locked away while the City performed major renovations to restore the historic architecture, integrate modern facilities and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Now, as one of the largest public libraries in Africa turns 90, its rebirth shows it’s possible to bring life back to the heart of a struggling city.
Producer: Mart-Marie Faure | Presenter: Masa Kekana
Books Galore! (2024)
In Johannesburg’s inner city, there’s a wealth of knowledge waiting to be explored. Known as the Literary District, it’s the unlikely home to a treasure trove of books from some of the world’s best-known African and international authors. From one-of-a-kind collectables tucked away in the basement of the Rand Club, to second-hand paperback novels sold on the street – this area boasts more than 70 booksellers within an approximate one-kilometre radius. Former Agence France-Presse journalist Griffin Shea is one of them, and he has spent the past decade compiling a detailed map to help book lovers navigate the district. Carte Blanche explores the inner city’s surprising reading culture.
NOW STREAMING
March and March
It’s been a source of simmering tension and violence for decades. Porous borders, corrupt officials and an inefficient bureaucracy have resulted in millions of undocumented foreigners living in often precarious conditions all over South Africa. And as infrastructure and public services crumble, they’re increasingly bearing the brunt of local anger. This story is about a group that believes undocumented immigrants are responsible for delays and shortages in our strained public healthcare system. March and March has taken matters into its own hands – and despite acting illegally, it’s getting plenty of support. But is this a patriotic movement, or one built on xenophobia? Get the full story now on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
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