"My heart is shattered 💔 Rest in peace, Tshidi Madia… a true giant of journalism."

 "My heart is shattered 💔 Rest in peace, Tshidi Madia… a true giant of journalism."

Shoprite Offers Job Opportunities Through the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme

Shoprite Offers Job Opportunities Through the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme

The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a business-led initiative, supported by government and labour, designed to create economic pathways for young people and reduce unemployment in South Africa.

Through the programme, participants receive 12 months of on-the-job training in the retail sector. Learners gain hands-on experience across different areas of the retail business. After completing the programme, successful candidates are equipped with the skills to either pursue a retail career or start their own retail business.

Who Can Apply?

South African youth aged 18 – 34 years

Minimum of Grade 10 (or equivalent)

A matric certificate is an advantage

Alternatively, a Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) qualification is accepted

How to Apply

To apply for this opportunity with Shoprite:

📲 Send a WhatsApp message with the word “hello” to 072 773 4335 and follow the prompts under Our Stores.

Open Letter to Santaco: Hands Off E-Hailing, It’s Time to Innovate

By: Noko Maleka – Insight Jozi News

Dear Santaco,

You are the biggest black-owned business in South Africa. From the days of the E20s and Siyayas to today’s Quantums, you have carried the hopes and dreams of black families. You took people to and from work, to schools, to town for groceries, and even across provinces to see their families. You ferried lovers to see each other, fans to stadiums, and communities to churches and funerals. Your taxis became a lifeline that helped black South Africans survive, work, and build.

But let’s be honest: many black people resent you today. You have become a symbol of poverty. You are the reason that, in our society, buying a car is considered the ultimate sign of success — because commuting with you is seen as something one must endure only until they have no choice left.

Your members buy taxis and pay thousands to join your associations, yet never once do they ask the public if they will commit to using those taxis. Still, when people choose alternatives, you react violently — as if South Africans signed a contract to remain your passengers forever.

Here is the truth: South Africans use your taxis reluctantly. They do so because you have not evolved with the times. You have not invested in innovation, in safety, or in dignity. You have not sent young people to study transport dynamics, global trends, or new technologies that could modernize your industry. You are shocked that e-hailing is thriving, yet it is thriving precisely because of your ignorance, arrogance, and violence.

South Africa is becoming a 24-hour economy. People work night shifts, attend late events, and travel at all hours. Yet, your industry still insists on operating as if the country sleeps at 9 p.m. If you did not take someone to work at 10 p.m., why must you insist you should be the only one to bring them back home?

Santaco, your business is stuck in the past. It is a symbol of poverty, not progress. It does not grow, evolve, or innovate. Instead of attacking e-hailing services, you should be learning from them. You should be developing your own apps, your own 24-hour fleets, your own systems that treat commuters with dignity, safety, and respect.

Hands off e-hailing. Compete by innovating, not by intimidating. Compete by offering better service, not by clinging to old models that no longer serve South Africans.

The truth is painful, but it must be said: e-hailing thrives because of your failure. If you want to remain relevant in the future, you must transform your industry. Until then, you will remain not a proud black business, but a reminder of how refusing to evolve kills greatness.

Respectfully,
Noko Maleka
Insight Jozi News

Everyone Has a Betrayal Story… Some Are Just Crazier Than Others!

Everyone Has a Betrayal Story… Some Are Just Crazier Than Others!

Can you relate? Click the link below to watch real-life betrayal stories from people just like you. Hear the shocking, emotional, and jaw-dropping experiences that will leave you questioning trust.

Watch Now & Subscribe

Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your own betrayal story in the comments. Let’s see whose story is the craziest! 🔥

https://youtu.be/ql6dZC7KhFw?si=6y_hcHZlOrridhIH

Gayton McKenzie: “We Will Fix the Plight of Our Artists” – Honouring the Life and Legacy of Nandi Nyembe

Nandi Nyembe’s Passing: A Legacy in South African Television and Film

By Noko Maleka | Insight Jozi News

South Africa is mourning the loss of veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, a beloved figure in the nation’s film and television industry. Nyembe, best remembered for her unforgettable portrayal of Lily in SABC 1’s hit teen-drama Yizo Yizo (2001–2004), and her leading role in the sitcom Izoso Connexion (2006–2007), has passed away. She also graced the silver screen with powerful performances in Reasonable Man (1999), Saturday Night at the Palace (1987), and the critically acclaimed Yesterday (2004).

A Career That Shaped South African Storytelling

Nyembe’s roles were never just performances; they were mirrors reflecting South Africa’s society, struggles, and triumphs. Her ability to bring raw honesty and humanity to her characters cemented her as one of the most respected actresses of her generation.

Tributes from Colleagues

Her colleagues in the arts and entertainment industry expressed deep sorrow at her passing. Fellow actors praised her mentorship and generosity, describing her as a “mother of the industry” who always carried wisdom, humility, and grace onto every set she stepped on.

“Nandi Nyembe was more than an actress; she was a guiding light for young talent, always willing to teach and encourage,” one actor shared.

Family’s Farewell

Speaking to SABC News, her grandson Jabulation Nyembe shared heartfelt memories of his grandmother:

“She was the pillar of her family, loved by many in the country. My latest memory of her is how she always reminded us to remain united as a family.”

Political Leaders Pay Tribute

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, also expressed condolences while reflecting on the plight of South African artists. He vowed to address the challenges faced by those in the industry.

“We will fix the plight of our artists. Too many of our legends leave this world without receiving the recognition and support they deserve. Nandi Nyembe’s passing reminds us of the urgent need to preserve the dignity of our cultural icons,” McKenzie said.

A Nation in Mourning

Nandi Nyembe’s passing marks the end of an era in South African film and television. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors, directors, and storytellers. From the screens of SABC to the big stage of South African cinema, she leaves behind a rich tapestry of work that will never be forgotten.

May her soul rest in peace.

Labels: Nandi Nyembe, Yizo Yizo, Izoso Connexion, Yesterday Film, South African Actress, TV and Film, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, Insight Jozi News

Dricus du Plessis lost his UFC belt but earned a massive R61 million at UFC 319. South Africa’s MMA star proves defeat can still pay big.

Dricus du Plessis lost his UFC belt but earned a massive R61 million at UFC 319. South Africa’s MMA star proves defeat can still pay big.

South Africa’s own Dricus “Stillknocks” du Plessis may have walked out of Chicago without his UFC middleweight belt, but he certainly didn’t leave empty-handed. The Pretoria-born fighter pocketed an eye-watering R61 million from his UFC 319 showdown with Khamzat Chimaev—proving once again that in the brutal business of combat sports, sometimes defeat can still come with a payday worth celebrating.

The clash, billed as one of the biggest middleweight battles in recent UFC history, ended in disappointment for Du Plessis inside the octagon. Yet, behind the scenes, his bank account told a different story. According to reports, the South African earned $1 million (R18 million) as a base purse for entering the cage as defending champion. Add to that the lucrative Pay-Per-View shares, performance bonuses, and promotional incentives, and his total ballooned to a staggering R61 million.

While international outlets estimate slightly different figures—some placing his payout at $2.5 million (about R45 million) and others at $3.8 million (over R70 million)—what’s undeniable is that Du Plessis remains among the highest-earning fighters in the UFC today. In fact, analysts estimate that over his last four UFC events, he has accumulated between R138 million and R147 million.

For South African sport, this is no small feat. Du Plessis is not just flying the national flag in the UFC—he is rewriting what it means to be a South African athlete on the global stage. His R61 million payday is proof that Africa’s fighters can command global respect, recognition, and reward.

The question now is not whether Du Plessis will bounce back—he has proven his resilience countless times—but rather how this loss will fuel his next chapter. Will he chase a rematch with Chimaev? Will he explore a different weight class? Or will he use his newfound fortune to build his brand beyond the octagon?

One thing is clear: Stillknocks may have lost the belt, but he is still smiling all the way to the bank.

Insightjozinews.blogspot.com 

Noko Maleka

ActionSA Slams Health Department for Misleading South Africans on Vaping

ActionSA Slams Health Department for Misleading South Africans on Vaping

By Insight Jozi News | August 19, 2025

ActionSA has taken a firm stand against the Department of Health, accusing it of spreading misinformation about vaping. The party is outraged by radio adverts authorised by the Department which claim that “vaping is just as bad as smoking cigarettes.”

For ActionSA, this statement is false and misleading. The party’s Member of Parliament, Dr Kgosi Letlape, says the Department is deliberately spreading propaganda rather than facts.

“While vaping is not without risk, the available scientific evidence is clear that it is not equivalent to the harms of combustible cigarettes. By insisting otherwise, the Department is spreading propaganda rather than facts,” said Dr Letlape.

Undermining Parliament?

The controversy escalates further because the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill is still before the Portfolio Committee on Health. By presenting contested provisions as if they are already law, ActionSA argues that the Department is misleading the public and disrespecting Parliament’s constitutional authority.

“South Africans are entitled to honest, evidence-based information, not fearmongering. Parliament is entitled to respect for its processes, not executive interference,” Dr Letlape added.

Formal Complaints Laid

In response, ActionSA has lodged two formal complaints:

• Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) – demanding the immediate withdrawal of the misleading adverts.
• Speaker of the National Assembly – accusing the Department of Health of contempt of Parliament and executive overreach.

The Bigger Picture

This standoff goes beyond vaping. It raises urgent questions about how the government communicates with citizens, the integrity of parliamentary processes, and whether South Africans are being given truthful, science-based information or political propaganda.

What’s Next?

With ActionSA pressing hard, pressure is mounting on the Minister of Health to explain why the Department chose to run these adverts and whether it will be held accountable.

For now, South Africans are left asking: is government protecting public health, or pushing fear to control vaping?

---

Sources:

• ActionSA Official Website – Press Statements
• Advertising Regulatory Board (South Africa)
• South African Government – Department of Health

---

What do you think? Should the Department of Health withdraw the adverts, or is vaping truly just as harmful as smoking? Share your views below.

"Democracy is Africa’s modern-day religion: sold as salvation, but quietly stealing our future."

Opinion:

---

Democracy Is an Element Used to Slow African Nations From Effective Economic Growth

Noko Mabofa Maleka

We are told that democracy is the crown jewel of governance. We are told it is the path to freedom, justice, and prosperity. But what if democracy, as packaged and sold to Africa, is nothing more than a disguised weapon? A system carefully designed not to liberate us, but to restrain us?

Look at the crises across the continent — from poverty to landlessness, from resource looting to government paralysis. At the heart of these struggles lies democracy, that imported model which pretends to empower but in reality disarms. In the name of “human rights” and “checks and balances,” governments are rendered powerless to make the very decisions that could transform nations.

Just like Africans once lost their continent to religion — a tool that was used to pacify, divide, and conquer us — democracy functions in the same way. Religion was introduced with promises of salvation, while in its shadow land was stolen and cultures dismantled. Democracy, too, arrives dressed in glory, promising equality, while beneath it lies a structure that keeps Africa politically free but economically enslaved.

Take South Africa, for instance. If democracy’s restraints were not in place, land would have been equitably redistributed, minerals harnessed for national wealth, and historical injustices addressed without apology. But democracy whispers: you cannot, you must not, you will offend rights, you will spook investors, you will breach the constitution. And so we remain trapped — guardians of an empty freedom while real power slips through our fingers.

Meanwhile, the West — the architects of this democracy — thrive under different rules. They shout about “good governance” while continuing to extract Africa’s wealth. They preach about “rights” while refusing true redress for centuries of theft and exploitation. They know that a continent shackled by democratic dogma will never fully rise against them.

This is the uncomfortable truth: democracy, as it is handed to us, was never meant to work in Africa’s favor. It is a mirage. A performance. A carefully controlled script designed to look glorious, while ensuring African nations never fully govern themselves.

The question, then, is this: is democracy truly for our good, or has it become the silent weapon that perpetuates our economic weakness? Until we design our own African-centered system of governance — one that allows governments to govern decisively and without contamination — our nations will remain rich in resources but poor in power.

---

Insight jozi news |opinion blog|debate 

Dawn on me is a Christian romance story

 From Pages to the Screen: The Unstoppable Journey of Pauline Ndhlovu 

By Noko Maleka| Insight jozi news 

In a world where dreams often fade in the shadows of financial struggle, 27-year-old Zimbabwean woman Pauline Ndhlovu stands as a living testament to resilience, faith, and relentless determination.

Pauline’s love affair with storytelling began long before the world knew her name. At just 17, she penned Dawn on Me, a Christian romance novel that dared to tread where many feared to go. With grace and courage, the book confronted a truth often avoided in both Christian circles and broader society: the unspoken struggles behind the façade of “perfect” Christian living.

The protagonist—a young, devout Christian girl—strives to please God, the church, and her community, only to discover that perfection is a weight no human can bear. Through heartfelt storytelling, Pauline unpacks the complexities of faith, expectation, and identity in a way that resonates deeply with readers.

Though Dawn on Me received heartfelt praise and the recurring cry, “Make this book a movie!”, reality dealt its own blow. With no marketing budget and no employment at the time, the book’s sales were modest. Yet, in the quiet corners of book clubs, church gatherings, and social media posts, Dawn on Me continued to spark conversations and inspire hearts.

Instead of letting the lack of resources define her destiny, Pauline did what visionaries do—she fought for her dream. By sheer persistence and popular demand, she turned her beloved novel into a screenplay and produced a pilot episode for what could become a powerful, faith-filled film. But with a shoestring budget, her journey stalled just short of the finish line.

Now, during Women’s Month—a time to honor the courage, creativity, and contributions of women like Pauline—Insight Jozi News is calling on every reader, every business, every supporter of local talent to rally behind her. With the right funding, Dawn on Me can blossom into the full-length feature film it deserves to be, reaching hearts not only in South Africa but around the globe.

Dawn on Me has been Pauline’s “firstborn” since her teenage years—a creation nurtured through faith, sacrifice, and countless nights of dreaming. This is not just a book or a movie. It’s a message for every young person carrying the weight of expectations, and a reminder that even in imperfection, grace abounds.

If you believe in the power of stories to change lives, this is your moment to make a difference.

📩 To assist Pauline Ndhlovu in completing Dawn on Me and funding its marketing, email: nokomaleka@insightjozi.com

 Or WhatsApp: 072 157 9188

 To advertise on this platform, contact us on: 072 157 9189

Protesters Set Germiston Home Affairs Building Alight as Evictions Boil Over

 

Protesters Set Germiston Home Affairs Building Alight as Evictions Boil Over

Noko maleka insight jozi

News 

In a dramatic and unsettling turn of events on Tuesday morning, the Department of Home Affairs building in Germiston, Ekurhuleni, has been engulfed in flames. Eyewitnesses report that the top floor was ablaze and firefighters battled valiantly to contain the blaze. While no injuries have been reported, the scene remains chaotic. Streets have been cordoned off, nearby buildings evacuated, and traffic diverted as emergency crews continue their efforts .

This act of arson comes amid simmering tensions over mass evictions. Residents of municipal flats in Pharoe Park—over 400 families—are facing eviction due to mounting rental arrears exceeding R200 million accumulated over the past two decades . The protests that erupted this morning are a boiling point in a long-neglected crisis of housing, poverty, and systemic neglect—a sharp reminder that desperation can ignite destruction.

What’s playing out in Germiston isn’t just about property or bureaucracy—it’s a civil plea gone up in flames. Tenants, pushed to the edge by financial strain, now face eviction, while the city contends with pressing debts. The authorities, caught in the crossfire between enforcing policy and addressing the plight of the displaced, find themselves walking a tightrope between order and empathy.

https://wa.me/c/27834463484

"Steenhuisen Wins Hearts of Black South Africans with Calls for Him to Be President"

 "Steenhuisen Wins Hearts of Black South Africans with Calls for Him to Be President"

John Steenhuisen’s latest address in Johannesburg did more than present an economic plan—it ignited a sense of hope and unity among South Africans, crossing racial lines in a way that few leaders have managed to do.

He stood before the nation not as a partisan figure, but as a unifier, earning applause from both black and white communities. His clear and bold plan for economic growth and job creation spoke to the everyday struggles of ordinary South Africans, offering tangible solutions in a time of uncertainty. His delivery exuded calm assurance—his words weren’t just policy; they were a promise that resonated with empathy and a deep appreciation of collective hardship.

Crucially, Steenhuisen didn’t stop at economics. In his Johannesburg briefing, he took a firm stand against hate—specifically condemning Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie’s recently resurfaced racial slur. Steenhuisen declared such language has “no place in South Africa,” comparing it directly to the divisive chant “Kill the Boer,” and reaffirmed a leader’s duty to uphold respect and unity .

He insisted on accountability across the board:

“There needs to be consistency. … It cannot be all right for one person to say something just because they have a certain skin colour, but it’s not right for another person to say something.” 

Describing McKenzie’s remarks as “totally irresponsible,” Steenhuisen stressed that public office demands a higher standard of conduct.

 “Such behavior is not of the calibre of a minister.” 

This blend of economic clarity and moral courage has clearly struck a chord. Many black South Africans have voiced appreciation for his forthright stance, not just on policy, but on the values that define leadership. On social media, comments flooded in: some framed it as the first time they’ve felt truly heard as black citizens; others openly urged him to pursue the presidency.

By Noko Mabofa Maleka 

Insightjozinews.blogspot.com 

https://www.youtube.com/live/1z12YQNQ2ck?si=YXn_U4kjJ3HlLvFm

SACP’s Solo Bid: A Political Gamble or a Cry for Relevance

---

By: Noko Mabofa Maleka | Insight Jozi News

The South African Communist Party (SACP) has made it clear: it intends to contest the 2026 municipal elections independently, breaking away from its historic alliance with the African National Congress (ANC).

In a recent conversation with SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila, I put to him the question many political observers have been quietly asking: Isn’t it too late for the Communist Party to carve its own electoral path?

After all, the SACP’s influence is deeply woven into the ANC’s political DNA. Many of its members not only carry ANC membership cards but also occupy influential positions in government, business, and ministerial offices—achievements made possible through their long-standing alignment with the governing party.

Mapaila’s answer was resolute. He argued that the SACP can no longer meaningfully advance its communist vision from within the ANC, signalling a decisive ideological break.

But while the SACP frames this move as a matter of political principle, the ANC views it with concern.

On 6 August 2024, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula told the media that the party has “tried by all means” to convince the SACP to reconsider, warning of “massive repercussions” for both organisations. He pointed to the SACP’s poor performance in recent Seshego by-elections—where the EFF claimed a sweeping victory—as an example of the risks the Communists face outside the alliance’s shelter.

When asked by SABC journalist Samkelo Maseko whether the ANC could ultimately prevent the split, Mbalula conceded that the party may no longer be able to stop the SACP from going it alone.

Pressed further by a News24 reporter on whether the SACP’s decision was influenced by perceived snubs in the Government of National Unity (GNU) cabinet allocations, Mbalula gave no definitive answer. Still, the political undercurrents are difficult to ignore.

In the GNU’s formation, the SACP’s allies in the ANC appeared sidelined, with key ministerial posts going instead to the Democratic Alliance and even to smaller, less influential parties like the Patriotic Alliance. For a movement that has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the ANC through decades of struggle and governance, this may have felt like a public slight—a diminishment of its political stature.

Some observers see the SACP’s new direction as less about ideological purity and more about a political cry for attention; a warning shot across the bow of its long-time ally that it will not be ignored. Others argue that the Communist Party’s survival now depends on proving it has genuine grassroots support, independent of the ANC brand.

If the SACP is seeking to reassert its identity and reconnect with its working-class base, breaking away may be its only path forward. But if this is a calculated bid for political relevance in the age of coalition politics, the gamble could backfire—especially if it finds itself without enough votes to shape policy or sustain a meaningful parliamentary presence.

For now, the ANC remains publicly diplomatic, but the truth is clear: a formal split will strain the Tripartite Alliance to its core and reshape South Africa’s political landscape in ways both parties may later regret.

What is certain is that in 2026, the SACP will face the ultimate test—not in conference halls or press briefings, but at the ballot box.

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula to Address Nation on NEC Meeting Outcomes Today

Date: 6 August 2025
By Noko Mabofa Maleka | Insight Jozi News
www.insightjozinews.blogspot.com 

---

The African National Congress (ANC) is set to host a high-profile media briefing today, Wednesday, 6 August 2025, at 11:00 AM, where Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula will address the media on the outcomes of the recent ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. The briefing will take place at the Chief Albert Luthuli House in Johannesburg, the ANC’s headquarters.

This media briefing is of significant national interest as it follows a weekend-long NEC gathering where pressing issues facing both the party and the country were on the agenda. From internal party discipline to economic instability, coalition governance, and the state of service delivery in municipalities, South Africans are eager to hear what decisions were taken by the ANC’s highest decision-making body between conferences.

According to a media advisory issued by the ANC's Department of Communications, Information, and Publicity, the Secretary-General will give a comprehensive update and take questions from accredited media houses. 

The ANC NEC meeting comes at a critical time in South Africa's political landscape, with heightened public scrutiny over corruption scandals, leadership divisions, and policy direction—especially in light of growing public dissatisfaction and the shifting dynamics of coalition politics post-2024 elections.

Fikile Mbalula, known for his candid and bold approach, is expected to outline the party’s stance on recent controversies, internal disciplinary matters, and provide clarity on any leadership or structural changes within the ANC.

Key Event Details:

• Event: ANC NEC Media Briefing
• Speaker: ANC Secretary-General Cde Fikile Mbalula
• Date: Wednesday, 6 August 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM
• Venue: Chief Albert Luthuli House, Johannesburg
• Occasion: Feedback on the outcomes of the ANC NEC Meeting

This  also coincides with the ANC’s 113th anniversary and the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, both of which hold historic and symbolic importance for the ruling party.

Insight Jozi News , will provide key statements, and expert analysis following the briefing.

---

For Media Inquiries & Live Updates:
📲 Facebook/TikTok/Instagram: @NokoMaleka
📰 Read more: www.insightjozinews.blogspot.com

---

#ANCNEC #FikileMbalula #LuthuliHouse #MediaBriefing #SouthAfricaPolitics #InsightJoziNews

"R24 Billion Vanishes in Johannesburg: ActionSA Demands Answers for City's Financial Meltdown"

"R24 Billion Vanishes in Johannesburg: ActionSA Demands Answers for City's Financial Meltdown"

 Insight Jozi News:

Noko Mabofa Maleka

August 5, 2025

The City of Johannesburg is once again at the centre of a financial storm — and this time, it’s not just whispers of maladministration, but a glaring R24 billion black hole in public funds that has ActionSA calling for immediate accountability.

In a fiery press statement released by ActionSA's Johannesburg MPAC Whip, Lebo Modukanene, the party has sounded the alarm on what it describes as “catastrophic levels of financial mismanagement” under the current administration led by Executive Mayor Dada Morero. This follows a damning letter from the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, to Mayor Morero, exposing blatant violations of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and a complete breakdown in ethical governance.

According to the minister's correspondence, the City’s 2023/24 audited financial statements reveal

R1.45 billion in unauthorised expenditure,

R22.2 billion in irregular expenditure, and

R705 million in fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

To add insult to injury, the Auditor-General found that these expenditures were written off without the legally required investigations — effectively giving those responsible a free pass.

"This is not merely a technical failure; it is a deliberate abdication of fiduciary duty by those entrusted with the public purse," Modukanene said.

Despite numerous interventions and warnings from National Treasury, the City has allegedly failed to act decisively. No credible forensic investigations have been launched. No officials or politicians have been held to account. And no meaningful steps have been taken to recover the billions lost.

ActionSA has now drawn a clear line in the sand, calling for:

The immediate presentation of a comprehensive UIFWE Remedial Action Plan before Council;

Forensic investigations into the R24 billion in irregular and wasteful expenditure;

Firm consequence management, targeting both officials and political office bearers responsible for this mismanagement;

The quarterly tabling of Muni eMonitor reports to restore transparency and reintroduce public oversight.

The party did not support the 2024/25 adjustment budget, citing growing concern over the City's financial recklessness and mounting unauthorised procurement deviations. “This crisis of governance proves what ActionSA has warned all along – that the current coalition of convenience has prioritised political expediency over service delivery and ethical leadership,” Modukanene said.

The consequences could be dire. Should the City fail to act, Minister Godongwana has signaled that Section 216(2) of the Constitution could be invoked — allowing National Treasury to withhold funding from the City.

ActionSA maintains it will not be complicit in what it sees as a cover-up of corruption. The party has reaffirmed its commitment to “restoring ethical governance and financial accountability in Johannesburg.”

The residents of Johannesburg, battered by potholes, power outages, and failing infrastructure, now face a bigger question: Can they afford more leaders who can’t account for billions?

Open Letter to Operation Dudula: You Do Not Represent Me

---

Open Letter to Operation Dudula: You Do Not Represent Me

By Noko Mabofa Maleka | Insight Jozi News

Dear Operation Dudula,

Let me say this without fear or hesitation: you do not represent me. You do not represent millions of South Africans who still believe in humanity, African unity, and common sense.

Your war is misdirected.

You pour your energy and rage onto poor Africans — fellow Black brothers and sisters — who flee from their homelands not because they want to steal from us, but because they are running from hunger, civil wars, corrupt governments, and desperation.

Illegal immigrants are not illegal humans. Let that sink in.

Crossing borders in search of food, peace, and a better future is not a crime — it is a survival strategy. Illegal immigration is not a criminal activity; it is fear-driven. It is about poverty, trauma, and hope. Only ignorance and stupidity could make anyone believe that victimising the vulnerable is a solution to South Africa’s problems.

We are a nation still healing from the deep wounds of apartheid, where some were once treated as subhuman because of the colour of their skin. Now, some of you are repeating that cruelty — turning on fellow Africans simply because they come from the other side of an imaginary line drawn by colonial rulers.

Let me also say this: I watched the video of the woman spewing vile hatred at foreign nationals. That woman does not represent me, nor the spirit of ubuntu we were raised with. Her words are disgusting, shameful, and criminal. If South Africa was serious about human rights and social cohesion, the government would incriminate such hate speech, not allow it to flourish under banners like Dudula.

Dudula, your mission is not justice. It’s not patriotism. It’s misguided vengeance, fuelled by political opportunists and driven by ignorance. You are distracting people from the real culprits of our suffering: unemployment, poor leadership, corruption, and state failure.

So again, I repeat:

You do not speak for me. You do not speak for the future we are trying to build. You are a stain on the dream of a united Africa.

Insightjozinews.blogspot.com 

Sincerely,
Noko Mabofa Maleka
Journalist, Broadcaster, 
Editor – Insight Jozi News

Ward 63 Councillor Arrested for Assault Amid Community Uproar"

"Hidden Fist of Hillbrow: Ward 63 Councillor Arrested for Assault Amid Community Uproar"

By Noko Mabofa Maleka | Insight Jozi News

Hillbrow — a Johannesburg inner-city neighborhood plagued by crime, drug abuse, and urban decay — was thrown into further disarray following the dramatic arrest of Ward 63 ANC Councillor, Xolani Khumalo, for allegedly assaulting a community member during a public registration event.

The June 2025 incident has ignited public outrage and shed light on a deepening leadership crisis in one of the city's most neglected wards. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that Councillor Khumalo abruptly attempted to shut the gate of the registration venue one minute before official closing time, with community members still outside attempting to enter. His actions sparked immediate confrontation from Mzwandile "Ngema" Nzuza, a local activist known for his vocal stance on transparency and justice.

What followed, according to multiple sources, was shocking: Councillor Khumalo allegedly physically assaulted and choked Mr. Nzuza in front of the crowd. A criminal case was subsequently opened, but the councillor proved elusive — having reportedly vanished from Hillbrow in the aftermath.

However, the law caught up with him on August 2nd, during a regional ANC meeting where Mr. Nzuza, backed by law enforcement, arrived to facilitate the councillor’s arrest. Tensions escalated when several ANC members allegedly threatened Nzuza's life, warning him he would not leave the meeting alive. Despite the threats, police swiftly intervened, placing Councillor Khumalo under arrest and transporting him to Hillbrow Police Station.

This confrontation has left the community reeling. Many residents were stunned to learn that Hillbrow even had a sitting councillor. “We didn’t even know we had a councillor. Just look around — the streets are filthy, hijacked buildings everywhere, people sleeping on pavements, drugs, human trafficking... Where has he been all this time?” asked a visibly frustrated local resident.

The South African Police Service has confirmed the arrest, and the matter is currently under investigation. Meanwhile, due to the chaos and violence associated with the incident, voting registrations and upcoming electoral processes in Ward 63 have been postponed until further notice.

Disturbingly, Khumalo’s alleged behavior is not new to many. Multiple residents claim the councillor is known for his “violent approach and intimidation tactics”. “He beats up people who disagree with him,” said another resident. “It’s like we’re living under a shadow government — invisible leadership and visible fear.”

As the community demands accountability, a broader question emerges: How many more 'ghost leaders' sit in office while their communities collapse? Hillbrow, a once-thriving hub, continues to sink under the weight of misgovernance and neglect.

For now, the people of Ward 63 wait for justice — not just in the courtroom, but in the long-overdue return of dignity, safety, and leadership.

Vodacom Scores Legal Victory in Longstanding “Please Call Me” Battle Against Makate By Noko Mabofa Maleka

 

Vodacom Scores Legal Victory in Longstanding “Please Call Me” Battle Against Makate

By Noko Mabofa Maleka | Insight Jozi News – 1 August 2025

In a dramatic turn of events, South Africa’s highest court has delivered a stinging rebuke to the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) and offered telecommunications giant Vodacom a crucial procedural win in its long-running legal dispute with Kenneth Nkosana Makate — the man widely credited with inventing the iconic "Please Call Me" service.

On 31 July 2025, the Constitutional Court ruled that the SCA must rehear the case with a different panel of judges, stating that the appellate court failed in its "duty of proper consideration" by accepting Makate’s revenue models without scrutiny and ignoring key evidence presented by Vodacom.

The judgment, authored by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga — who officially retired the same day — sends the landmark case back into legal limbo nearly two decades after the initial idea was born and nine years after the apex court first intervened in Makate’s favour.

---

A Legal Odyssey: Makate’s Battle for Recognition and Compensation

Kenneth Makate, a former trainee accountant at Vodacom, submitted a proposal in November 2000 for a service that would allow users without airtime to send a free missed call — essentially a plea for a callback. This became the foundation of the wildly successful "Please Call Me" service, launched by Vodacom in March 2001.

Though the Constitutional Court affirmed in 2016 that a binding verbal agreement existed between Makate and Vodacom, and ordered the company to negotiate fair compensation in good faith — designating the CEO as the deadlock-breaker — the parties failed to reach a consensus.

Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub eventually offered Makate R47 million, a figure Makate publicly rejected as “shocking” and “an insult,” insisting he was owed much more — up to R126 billion.

---

The Billion-Rand Dispute Over Numbers

Makate’s legal team successfully argued in the High Court and later at the SCA that he should receive between 5% and 7.5% of the total voice revenue generated by the Please Call Me service over 18 years, with interest.

This would amount to:

• R9.7 billion at a 5% share before interest
• R29 billion with interest at the same rate
• R63 billion if calculated at 7.5% with interest

However, Vodacom challenged the enforceability of the SCA’s order, arguing it was ambiguous and based on flawed calculations. In its submission to the Constitutional Court, Vodacom claimed Makate was attempting to selectively abandon inconvenient parts of the SCA’s judgment to render the order enforceable — essentially rewriting the ruling to suit his claim.

“Mr. Makate does not abandon the SCA’s orders in their entirety nor any particular one of its orders,” Vodacom argued. “What he attempts to do instead is to rewrite the SCA majority’s order by ‘abandoning’ select words within an order in the hope that it reads more sensibly.”

The Constitutional Court agreed that the SCA erred in accepting Makate’s figures without scrutiny and that the case deserved a fresh hearing before a reconstituted SCA panel.

---

The Human Cost of Justice Deferred

For Makate, who has waged this legal war since 2008, the ruling represents another delay in receiving compensation for what many believe was a revolutionary idea that reshaped mobile communication in South Africa.

Despite this setback, the Constitutional Court’s judgment does not end his legal claim — it merely hits the reset button, potentially forcing a third round of litigation in a battle already spanning 17 years.

The ruling also reignites broader national conversations around intellectual property, fair compensation, and corporate accountability in post-apartheid South Africa. How does a country committed to transformation and justice balance the interests of innovation with the power of large corporations?

---

Final Thoughts

As Acting Deputy Chief Justice Madlanga bows out of public service with a legal bombshell, his final judgment underscores a deeply uncomfortable truth — even South Africa’s highest courts can fail in the execution of justice. It also highlights the importance of judicial integrity and careful adjudication in matters involving billions of rands and the livelihoods of ordinary South Africans.

Whether Kenneth Makate will eventually receive a payout commensurate with the value his idea generated remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: the struggle for justice in the “Please Call Me” saga is far from over.

---

Follow Insight Jozi News for updates as this story continues to unfold.
📲 WhatsApp Channel: Insight Jozi News
📍 Johannesburg | ✍🏽 Reporting by Noko Mabofa Maleka
💻 www.insightjozinews.blogspot.com

---

Would you like a version for Opera News, a graphic poster with "Breaking News", or SEO metadata for this article?