The Best of Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Mr Vuyisile Mshudulu, Director of Arts, Culture and Heritage in the City of Joburg, about a major cultural moment for Johannesburg. As part of the City’s Arts Alive Festival, the acclaimed play Ka Lebitso La Moya returns to local stages — a hard-hitting, award-winning production written and directed by Momo Matsunyane, the 2024 Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year for Theatre. Set in the fictional township of Ha Satane, the play explores the dangerous intersection of faith, power, and manipulation — showing how blind belief can uplift, but also destroy. After winning multiple Naledi Awards, the produc...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Nokukhanya Mntambo about South Africa’s historic G20 Presidency and what it means for the continent’s future. As the only African nation in the G20 since its founding in 1999, South Africa now holds a critical platform to champion Africa’s priorities on a global scale. With Trade and Investment high on the agenda, corporate backing from FirstRand — through RMB and FNB as platinum sponsors — is helping to drive this mission forward. FirstRand CEO Mary Vilakazi is also serving as co-chair of the influential B20 Task Force, which places South Africa in a strategic position to attract...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Adam Gilchrist for a whirlwind look at global headlines making waves. First, the shocking story of a Polish woman who was locked away by her mother for 27 years has stunned Europe, raising questions about hidden abuse and how such isolation went unnoticed for so long. Then, a troubling spotlight on the world’s tropical rainforests — deforestation is accelerating, and experts warn that if urgent action isn’t taken, we could face devastating environmental consequences. Finally, a quirky slice of life from London, where a “Scream Club” is giving stressed-out city dwellers a place to let it all out...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Khabazela about the social media moments everyone’s talking about. First up, a viral post has sparked laughs and debates around those awkward “send me proof” requests — whether from suspicious partners, skeptical bosses, or overbearing colleagues, many are sharing stories of having to send selfies, location pins, or timestamps just to prove where they are. Then, there’s the pet owner who went viral for trying to sneak out of the house without triggering their clingy dog — prompting a flood of stories from fellow dog parents who’ve had to get seriously creative just to leave the house...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to political journalist Pieter du Toit about the growing storm in South Africa’s intelligence community. President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Imtiaz Fazel, the Inspector-General of Intelligence — the very official tasked with keeping the country’s spy agencies in check. This dramatic move follows explosive revelations that Crime Intelligence bosses allegedly blew R227 million on luxury hotels, even as core policing budgets face cuts. For many, it’s an uncomfortable echo of the Richard Mdluli era — a time defined by slush funds, political cover-ups, and shadowy deals. So, is this a bold step towards restoring accountability within int...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to political analyst and academic Asanda Ngoasheng about a whirlwind week in South African politics. From the Director-General of Social Development facing dismissal over alleged dishonesty, to the ANC in a scramble to unfreeze its bank accounts following a dramatic court order, the headlines have been nothing short of explosive. Tensions are also rising within the police service, with a public fallout between Lieutenant-General Sibiya and Provincial Commissioner Mkhwanazi raising serious questions about leadership and internal divisions. Corruption, accountability, and political fallout are dominating the agenda — and Ngoasheng helps us unpack what all of this means fo...

Adam Gilchrist brings us the top global stories making headlines today. First, growing concern over crime in major U.S. cities is raising eyebrows internationally — and could have implications for tourists and even events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Then, a massive criminal Bitcoin seizure has authorities tracking one of the biggest digital currency crackdowns in recent years. And finally, China is stirring geopolitical tension once again with a controversial map update that’s ruffling feathers across Asia.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense...

Bongani Bingwa is joined by legendary American steel pannist, composer, and producer Andy Narell, ahead of a musical night to remember at Artistry in Sandton. This October, Narell returns to South Africa with his unmistakable Caribbean jazz sound, joined by Cuban piano sensation Jany McPherson and local percussion maestro Thomas Dyani. It’s a global fusion of jazz, soul, and rhythm that promises to transport audiences from Havana to Joburg in a single set. With over 25 years of South African performances under his belt, Narell shares what makes this collaboration so special — and why music still connects us beyond borde...

Bongani Bingwa celebrates South Africa’s emerging creative talent as the Arts & Culture Trust’s Nyoloha Scholarship Programme awards two young artists, Alutha Siyo and Lerato Sithole, with scholarships worth R300 000 each. From Gugulethu to Gauteng, this national programme is changing lives by giving aspiring performers and visual artists a real shot at formal training and success in the arts. Joining us to unpack the impact of this opportunity is ACT’s Keitumetse Mbatha, alongside the two scholarship recipients, who share how this moment is turning their passion into a future.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broa...

Khabazela shares the viral stories getting everyone talking online. First up, a sweet (and slightly divisive) clip of a couple who insist on going to bed at the same time every night has sparked debate, do you and your partner hit the pillow together, or does one of you always stay up late, and why? Then, a hilarious video of a clingy dog refusing to let its owner leave the house has pet lovers sharing their own stories, have you ever had to come up with a sneaky escape plan just to get out the door without your furry...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Professor Andries Bezuidenhout, Professor of Development Studies at the University of Fort Hare, about the escalating crisis at one of South Africa’s oldest and most historic universities. As Fort Hare ramps up efforts to tackle deep-rooted corruption, it has found itself at the centre of a violent backlash — with threats, intimidation, and attacks aimed at those pushing for reform. Bezuidenhout, in a recent column, describes this as more than just campus politics; it’s a high-stakes struggle over institutional integrity, academic freedom, and the future of higher education in the country. He unpacks the forces...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to journalist Ufrieda Ho from FixLocal about a grassroots crime-fighting initiative in Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg. In a community too often overlooked and under-policed, over 400 volunteer patrollers have stepped up to protect their neighbourhoods, walking or cycling through the streets in reflective vests, acting as the eyes and ears of the police. Unarmed and unpaid, these men and women are tackling gangsterism, drug abuse, and gender-based violence head-on. Backed by local businesses and supported by the non-profit RADA, the initiative is not just about safety,  it’s about dignity, ownership, and hope. Ho explores how thi...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Derek Lubner, Founder and Chairman of iZinga Assist, about how his platform is transforming charitable giving in South Africa. As the festive season nears, iZinga Assist is helping ensure that every rand donated reaches legitimate, transparent, and impactful non-profits. Through digital verification, compliance checks, and a ratings system — supported by partners like Shoprite Holdings and MacRobert Attorneys — the platform is setting a new benchmark for trust in the non-profit sector. Lubner explains how iZinga is giving both donors and NPOs the tools to build accountability and confidence in the giving process.

702 Break...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Adam Gilchrist for a global roundup of the stories making headlines. First, the deepening crisis in Gaza and Israel, where humanitarian aid efforts are faltering and the rising death toll continues to shock the world. Then, confusion in Norway as Venezuela abruptly shuts down its embassy in Oslo without clear explanation, raising diplomatic eyebrows. And finally, a futuristic twist from Ireland, where trials of food delivery drones are showing promising results — could this be the future of takeaways?

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Khabazela about the viral moments lighting up social media this morning. First up, a heartwarming (and hilarious) video of identical twins who couldn’t be more different in personality — sparking a broader conversation about how twins can share everything but still be complete opposites. Then, the internet is howling over a clip of a dog so emotionally attached to its owner that they have to stage an elaborate “mission impossible” just to leave the house. It’s all about needy pets, dramatic departures, and the creative lengths we go to for a moment of peace.

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Lizette Lancaster, Acting Head of the Justice and Violence Prevention Programme at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), about the growing crisis within the South African Police Service. With senior officers allegedly defying orders, political interference undermining command structures, and widespread internal dysfunction exposed by recent parliamentary hearings and the Madlanga Commission, trust in SAPS is eroding. Lancaster explains how a lack of accountability and leadership has left communities questioning whether the police can still protect them — and who, if anyone, is truly in control of the country’s policing system.

702 Break...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Professor Gilbert Khadiagala, Director of the African Centre for the Study of the United States at Wits University, about Madagascar’s deepening political crisis following President Andry Rajoelina’s decision to dissolve Parliament amid growing unrest. What began as public frustration over water and power shortages, unemployment, and corruption has escalated into nationwide protests, with reports of parts of the military siding with demonstrators. With the president’s authority under threat, Khadiagala unpacks whether this marks a democratic reset, a constitutional crisis, or a continuation of Madagascar’s turbulent political history.

702 Breakfast...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Jessica Wheeler, Marketing Director at Nando’s, about a sizzling new event lighting up the streets of Johannesburg, the Vitality Chicken Run. This first-of-its-kind night run, a collaboration between Discovery Vitality and Nando’s, invites Jozi residents to hit the streets at sunset, with the smell of flame-grilled chicken in the air, music pumping, and a spirit of community in full swing. From Nelson Mandela Bridge to Gandhi Square, runners will experience the city in a whole new light , all while supporting a good cause, as every participant helps feed children in Lorentzville. It’s fitnes...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Adam Gilchrist for today’s World View, covering three major global stories. First, there’s growing international momentum around a proposed peace plan and summit aimed at mapping a way forward for Gaza, as conflict continues to escalate. Then, concern mounts over religious freedom after several Christians were arrested in China, prompting strong condemnation from the United States. And finally, in Oregon, anti-Trump sentiment took a bizarre turn as a group of naked cyclists staged a protest, drawing global attention and confusion in equal measure.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 70...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Khabazela about the top viral stories catching everyone’s attention online. In the first clip, someone hilariously discovers they’ve been using a common household item incorrectly for years, sparking the question: have you ever been using something wrong, and do you actually read the manual? The second story features a clingy dog who refuses to let its owner leave the house without a fuss, prompting a clever and comical escape plan. So we’re asking: do you have a needy pet, and have you ever had to get creative just to leave the house?

...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Trevor Manuel, former Finance Minister of South Africa, who has joined a global call to “turn debt into hope.” Alongside 30 top economists and global leaders,  including Nobel Laureate Joseph Stiglitz,  Manuel is urging the IMF and World Bank to rethink how they handle debt in poorer nations. African countries are spending an average of 17% of their revenue just on servicing external debt, leaving little for essential services like health, education, and infrastructure. The group warns that the current model is unsustainable and deepens inequality.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johan...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Chris Nissan from the South African Human Rights Commission, after the Durban High Court dismissed an urgent application to stop Operation Dudula from continuing its campaign against migrants. The SAHRC argued that the group’s actions,  including denying migrants access to hospitals and clinics,  were unlawful and discriminatory. But the court ruled the case lacked urgency. The decision has raised concern over the group’s ability to continue its controversial operations targeting foreign nationals.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense o...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Nicci Lee Watson, Head of Marketing & Communications at City Polo, about a stylish new collaboration turning heads across South Africa. “Feels Like Polo” is not just a polo match — it’s a lifestyle experience where fashion, sport, brunch, and culture collide. Hosted at the iconic Inanda Polo Club, the event fuses the timeless elegance of the POLO South Africa brand with a fresh, African cool. It’s about redefining Sundays, celebrating heritage, and setting a new standard for modern luxury — where sophistication feels authentically homegrown.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Joh...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Adam Gilchrist for the top international stories making headlines. First, Gaza on a Knife Edge — remaining Israeli hostages are expected to be released soon, with world leaders gathering in Egypt for a "signing ceremony" on a proposed Gaza peace plan. Then, An Afghan-Pakistan Conflict — the Taliban government has confirmed it launched attacks on Pakistani troops along the mountainous northern border, raising fears of escalating regional tensions. Finally, Tributes to Diane Keaton RIP — Hollywood mourns the death of Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton at 79, with stars like Goldie Hawn, Steve Martin, and Ben Stiller leading emotional tributes.

...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Khabazela about the viral moments grabbing attention online. First up: “Let’s hurry up” — a look at how rushing often backfires. Does hurrying up actually slow you down? Listeners share experiences of how being in a rush led to mistakes and delays. Then, in “How’s this for a birthday gift?” we explore the growing trend of giving children long-term financial gifts like shares or tax-free savings accounts instead of toys. Has your child ever received a meaningful, future-focused gift like that?

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radi...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mamoloko Kubayi, following mounting criticism over President Cyril Ramaphosa’s appointment of a panel tasked with selecting the next head of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). With current NDPP Shamila Batohi set to step down in January, questions are being raised about the qualifications of those choosing her successor. Critics say the panel lacks sufficient legal experience, undermining confidence in the process. Minister Kubayi, who chairs the panel, pushes back against these claims — but Bongani asks: how can a committee without deep legal expertise be trusted to appoint South Afri...

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Dr Luke Freeman, Madagascar expert at University College London, currently based in Antananarivo, as Madagascar faces a deepening political crisis. Elite Capsat soldiers — once loyal to President Andry Rajoelina and instrumental in his rise to power — have now turned against him, joining nationwide protests and refusing orders to fire on civilians. Armoured vehicles have rolled through the capital, and the president’s whereabouts remain unclear. Bongani explores what caused this rupture between the military and the regime, what it means for Madagascar’s future, and whether the country is headed for a full-blown coup.

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Advocate Ulrich Roux, founder and managing director of Ulrich Roux & Associates, following public outrage after the Gauteng High Court granted R400 000 bail to Katiso ‘KT’ Molefe. Molefe is accused of masterminding multiple murders, including the assassination of DJ Sumbody and his bodyguards. He is already out on R100 000 bail for a separate case — the killing of engineer Armand Swart, who was shot 23 times outside his workplace. KZN police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi previously told parliament Molefe is allegedly linked to the Big Five criminal cartel. 

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702...

Bongani Bingwa spoke with EWN reporter Nokukhanya Mntambo, reporting from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape for the G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial meeting. She discussed how South African ports continue to rank among the worst in the world and whether the G20 discussions in the Eastern Cape are likely to address these issues.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you a...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Adam Gilchrist about the Gaza peace plan, the arrest of a man on terror charges over a Halloween display featuring fake body bags labeled with town officials’ titles, and the European Parliament’s vote to ban the use of meat-related names for plant-based foods.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to st...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Treyvone Moosa, Creative Director of The Blue Table: A Feast of Memory and Colour, an event taking place in Rosebank over two days, on 25 and 26 October.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day 

Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa 

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Jonathan 'Khabazela' Fairbairn about the experience of being treated by a doctor or a stranger in a public setting.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day 

Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa 

Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays fro...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Professor William Gumede, associate professor at Wits School of Governance and founder of the Democracy Works Foundation, and Ben Theron, Executive Director of Whistleblower House. They discuss the corruption scandals rocking the nation, the climate of fear and intimidation within SAPS, and what these developments mean for accountability, transparency, and South Africa’s future, including the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) raid on businessman Hangwani Maumela’s home in Sandton.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, intervi...

Guest: Ben Theron Executive Director of Whistleblower House.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. 

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day 

Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa 

Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Stephen Grootes, host of The Money Show on 702 and CapeTalk, on this week’s political desk. Grootes reacts to several major developments the merger of Rise Mzansi, BOSA, and the GOOD Party to form a new political movement called Unite for Change; KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s testimony before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee; the press briefing by suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu’s Chief of Staff, Cedric Nkabinde; and the raids on Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya’s homes following allegations from Mkhwanazi that he was protecting criminal cartels, as well as the SIU’s raid o...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Rashid Kay, hip-hop artist and Creative Director of Back To the City, about what attendees can expect from this year’s event on Saturday in Newtown, featuring hip-hop at the center with 100 performers, DJs, graffiti, skate battles, and a headline performance by Lupe Fiasco.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to...

Bongani Bingwa in conversation with Chief Mandla Mandela, tribal chief of the Mvezo Traditional Council and grandson of Nelson Mandela, on the interception of their Global Sumud Flotilla, their treatment during the incident, and how they responded to being labelled terrorists and stripped of their dignity.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start y...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Adam Gilchrist about at least 24 people killed when an army paraglider bombed a Buddhist festival in Myanmar, protesters taking to the streets of Chicago as National Guard troops are deployed amid President Trump’s crime crackdown, and the world porridge champion.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day...

Bongani Bingwa talks with Jonathan 'Khabazela' Fairbairn about sleeping in the car and how people handle children’s artwork.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day 

Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa 

Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Br...

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Dr. Siphiwe Mndaweni, CEO of the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC), and Dr. Nicholas Crisp, Deputy Director-General of the National Health Insurance division at the Department of Health, about allegations that hospitals are borrowing equipment and documents to pass inspections, raising serious concerns about patient safety ahead of the NHI rollout.

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The t...