African Renaissance Podcast
The African Renaissance Podcast, hosted by Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, features conversations with actors working to improve the lives of African people. It provides sharp analysis and critique of Africa's social, political, and economic history.
Episodes
Episode 45 - George Galloway: South Africa, War and the Changing Global Landscape
In conversation with George Galloway on South Africa, the anti-apartheid struggle, Nelson Mandela, international politics and the changing global landscape. Galloway reflects on his work with the ANC, the story behind Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday celebration at Wembley Stadium, and the role international solidarity played in South Africa’s liberation struggle.*The views expressed in this convers
Episode 44 - Carol Steinberg: Nugent Commission, SARS Governance and the Rebuilding of SARS
In conversation with Carol Steinberg SC on the Nugent Commission and its investigation into the governance, leadership and institutional challenges that affected the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Eight years after the Nugent Commission’s report, this conversation examines what happened inside SARS, why public confidence and tax morality became concerns, the changes that took place under To
Episode 43 – Dr Pali Lehohla: Democracy, Education and the Economy.
"South Africa Is Heading for a Crisis by 2050"In conversation with Dr Pali Lehohla, on the major questions shaping South Africa’s future, from the economy and education to demographics, intellectual capital, long-term planning and the challenges facing future generations. Drawing on data, historical context and scenario planning, Dr Pali Lehohla examines how South Africa’s current trajec
Episode 42 – Former Justice Edwin Cameron: Decriminalising Drugs, Land Reform And SA Constitution
In conversation with former Constitutional Court Justice Edwin Cameron on justice, crime, prisons, drugs, democracy and the future of South Africa.Justice Cameron explains his argument for treating drug dependency primarily as a public health challenge rather than relying solely on criminal punishment. They explore the difference between decriminalisation and legalisation, the relationship between
Episode 41 – Lindiwe Zulu: uMkhonto weSizwe, Patriarchy, Governance & Small Business Realities
In conversation with Lindiwe Zulu on her experiences as a young South African, her journey into exile, her education in the Soviet Union, and her time at Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College. The discussion also examines small business, entrepreneurship and the challenges facing township economies, before moving into broader questions about leadership, institutional processes, accountability and publ
Episode 40 - Prof. Zine Magubane: How Class, Capitalism & Race Shaped Women's Rights
In conversation with Prof. Zine Magubane on the history and sociology of women's struggles in South Africa, from the colonial period to the present.The conversation examines the significance of the 1956 Women's March, the relationship between race, class and gender, and the different experiences of Black and white women under colonialism and apartheid. Prof. Magubane discusses how the ap
Episode 39 - Dr Naledi Pandor: Leadership, Education And South Africa’s Future
In conversation with Dr Naledi Pandor on the importance of education, the development of South Africa’s education system, teacher preparation, and the challenges that remain in building a stronger society. Dr Pandor reflects on her family’s intellectual and historical legacy, the influence of Z.K. Matthews and Nelson Mandela, her experiences in Parliament, and the debates that shaped South Africa
Episode 38 - Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma: Exile, Leadership & South Africa Today
In conversation with Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi explores the extraordinary life and political journey of one of South Africa's most prominent leaders. The conversation also examines the ANC's leadership, the challenges facing women in political leadership, the 2007 ANC conference, internal party democracy and candidate selection. Dr Dlamini-Zuma further shares her vi
Episode 37 - Jenerali Ulimwengu: Pan-Africanism, African Freedom & The Struggle to Remember Who We Are
Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi and Jenerali Ulimwengu explore the history, meaning and future of Pan-Africanism, and the urgent question of how Africans can reconnect with the history, ideas and possibilities that have shaped the continent. The conversation examines the idea of “re-membering” Africa — recovering a sense of historical consciousness, identity and collective purpose — while reflecting on the ex
Special Broadcast – Mbuyiseni Ndlozi on Trip to Iran & Funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
In this Special Broadcast of the African Renaissance Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi reflects on his recent visit to the Republic of Iran and shares insights from his experience on the ground. Prof. Na’eem Jeenah joins the discussion and they explore Iran's history, society, international relations and place within today's global landscape, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the iss
Episode 36 - Prof. Achille Mbembe: Why Africa Is Still Not Free After 70 Years
In conversation with Prof. Achille Mbembe on some of the most important questions shaping Africa's future.
Episode 35 - Dr Lwazi Lushaba: Why Africa Must Rethink Decolonisation, Science & Power
In conversation with Dr Lwazi Lushaba, we explore some of the most important philosophical questions shaping Africa and the world today.
Episode 34 - James Ngcobo: The Art of Storytelling, Theatre, Film & South Africa's Creative Future
In conversation with James Ngcobo, acclaimed theatre director, writer, producer and one of South Africa's leading creative minds, we touch on the power of storytelling and why stories remain central to understanding ourselves, our history and our future.
Special Broadcast - Prof. Noor Nieftagodien: What Is Driving South Africa's Immigration Debate?
In conversation with Prof. Noor Nieftagodien, historian, author, and academic, this episode explores one of the most debated and emotionally charged issues in contemporary South Africa. The conversation also reflects on broader questions facing South Africa today: inequality, unemployment, community tensions and democratic institutions. Prof. Nieftagodien offers historical context and critical an
Episode 33 - Saida Ali: Women, Power & the Future of Africa
In conversation with Saida Ali, we explore the role of women in shaping Africa's future and the importance of leadership, community, and collective action across the continent. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities facing African societies today, what authentic leadership looks like, and why empowering communities remains essential for long-term progress.
Episode 32 - Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse: Music, Liberation and the African Renaissance
In conversation with Ntate Sipho Hotstix Mabuse on Music, Liberation and the African Renaissance.Sipho Mabuse known professionally as "Hotstix", is a South African singer-songwriter.Mabuse grew up in Soweto. Mabuse got his start in the Afro-soul group the Beaters in the mid-1970s. After a successful tour of Zimbabwe they changed the group's name to Harari, an afrosoul band led by Ma
Episode 31 - Charles Nqakula: The Alliance Crisis, MK Party, Police Corruption and South Africa's Political Future
In conversation with Charles Nqakula on The Alliance Crisis, MK Party, Police Corruption and South Africa's Political Future.
Episode 30 - John Kani: Arts, Hollywood, Pan-Africanism and the future of storytelling
In conversation with the Legendary actor, playwright, and activist Ntate John Kani. Kani joins Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi for a powerful conversation on theatre, Hollywood, African storytelling, and the politics shaping the modern world.
Episode 29 - Dr Jonathan Butler: Childhood Fame, Addiction, Faith and Music.
In conversation with Dr Jonathan Butler. He opens up about childhood fame, addiction, faith, music, and the journey behind one of South Africa’s most iconic voices.Jonathan Kenneth Butler is a South African singer-songwriter and guitarist. His music is often classified as R&B, jazz fusion or worship music.
16th Africa Day Lecture: Prof. Anthoni Van Nieuwkerk - Africa, Diplomacy & the New Global Order.
Prof. Anthoni van Nieuwkerk joins Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi for a wide ranging conversation on Africa’s future, South Africa’s declining diplomatic weight, the crisis in US/SA relations, coups on the continent, Madagascar, Sudan, the DRC, and whether Africa is prepared for a fractured global order.A hard but necessary conversation on power, democracy, sovereignty, and Africa’s place in the world.
16th Africa Day Lecture: AUDA Nepad at 25 - CEO of AUDA-NEPAD Mrs Nardos Bekele-Thomas
African Renaissance Podcast brings you the sit down with the CEO of AUDA-NEPAD Mrs Nardos Bekele-Thomas to mark it's 25th anniversary, as part of our coverage of the Africa Day Celebration.
Episode 28 - Caiphus Semenya: Music In The Air
In conversation with Ntate Caiphus Semenya on Music, Quincy Jones, Composition and Lion King.Caiphus Semenya is a South African composer and musician. As a young musician he sang in the cast of the jazz musical King Kong. After moving to the United States in the 1960s he had a successful career as a composer and arranger, including work on the scores for Roots (1977) and The Color Purple (1985).
Episode 27 - Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula: Phala Phala, Zimbabwe Trip & Betrayal
In conversation with Nosivwe Mapisa-Nqakula on Phala Phala, That Zimbabwe Trip and more.Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula is a South African politician of the African National Congress (ANC). She was a cabinet minister from 2004 to 2021 and the Speaker of the National Assembly from 2021 to 2024. She was an elected member of the ANC National Executive Committee between 2002 and 2022. In December 2001, she wa
Episode 26 - Prof. Funmi Olonisakin:Power, Agency and the Crisis of African Leadership.
In conversation with Prof. Funmi Olonisakin on Power, Agency and the Crisis of African Leadership.
Episode 25 - Dikgang Moseneke: From Revolution to Justice
Today on the African Renaissance Podcast we mark 30 years of South Africa’s Democratic Constitution & Elections with the revolutionary, Robben Islander, Pan-Africanist and former deputy Chief Justice, Dikgang Moseneke.
Special Broadcast - Ambassador Shakib Mehr of Iran: Having Nuclear Weapons is Forbidden.
In Conversation with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to South Africa, Shakib Mehr.
Episode 24 - Mandisi Dyantyis: Life, Music and Faith.
In Conversation with Mandisi Dyantyis on Life, Music and Faith.
Episode 23 - Max Boqwana: Max Boqwana: Amnesty, The Untold Story
In conversation with CEO of Thabo Mbeki Foundation, Max Boqwana on
Episode 22 - Brian Kagoro: Rethinking Africa's Development
In conversation with Brian Kagoro on Rethinking Africa's Development.
Episode 21 - Gertrude Mongella: Women, Africa and UN
In Conversation with Gertrude Mongella on Women, Africa and UN.
Episode 20 - Vijay Prashad: Capitalist Crisis, War and The Global South.
In conversation with Prof. Vijay Prashad on Capitalist Crisis, War and The Global South.
Episode 19 - Trevor Manuel: Fiscal Policy, State Capacity and Governance Failure.
In conversation with Trevor Manuel on Fiscal Policy, State Capacity and Governance Failure.
Episode 18 - Gloria Serobe: Women Empowerment, BEE and Transnet
In Conversation with Gloria Serobe on Women Empowerment, BEE and Transnet
Episode 17 - Nduduzo Makhathini: African Rebirth and Improvisation.
In conversation with Nduduzo Makhathini on African Rebirth and Improvisation.
Episode 16 - George Fivaz: Apartheid-Era Policing Structure, Right-Wing Threats and The Boeremag.
In conversation with George Fivaz on Apartheid-Era Policing Structure, Right-Wing Threats and The Boeremag.
Episode 15 - Ambassador Carlos Feo: Strategy to secure Maduro's Release, Oil, Sanctions & Negotiations.
In conversation with the Venezuelan Ambassador Carlos Feo on strategy to secure Maduro's release, oil, sanctions and negotiations.
Episode 14 - Zwelinzima Vavi: Global Organised Labour, Trump and the Fall of the Congress Alliance.
In conversation with SAFTU SG, Zwelinzima Vavi on Global Organised Labour, Trump, Counter Revolution and the Fall of the Congress Alliance.
Episode 13 - Prof. David Monyae, Mr Na’eem Jeenah: Power and the Fall of American Moral
In conversation with Prof. David Monyae and Mr Na’eem Jeenah on Oil, Power and the fall of American moral authority.
Episode 12 - Dr J. Luke Wood: Transformation, Education and Africa's Influence
In Conversation with Dr J. Luke Wood on Transformation, Education and Africa's influence.
Episode 11 - Prof. Funmi Olonisakin and Dr Kingsley Makhubela: Post-World War II rule-based global order
In conversation with Prof Funmi Olonisakin and Dr Kingsley Makhubela on the collapse of the post-World War II rule-based global order, the rise of China and Africa's unrealised power in the emerging world order.
Episode 10 - Lebo Sekgobela: Fear, Purpose and Restoration
In Conversation with Gospel Singer Lebo Sekgobela reflecting on fear, purpose, restoration and the power of holding on when the world says let go
Episode 09 - Dr Kayode Fayemi: Trump, Nigeria, South Africa & Who Controls the Narrative?
In conversation with Dr Kayode Fayemi on Trump, Nigeria, South Africa & Who Controls the Narrative?
Episode 08 - Victor Masondo: The Life, Legacy and Spirit of Bass
In Conversation with Victor Masondo. He speaks about grief, service, and the moment the bass stopped being an instrument and became a cry.
Episode 07 - Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza: Parliament failing Mkhwanazi, and ANC Top Job
Today on African Renaissance Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi hosts the National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza. She speaks to us on Parliament failing Mkhwanazi, and ANC Top Job.
Episode 06 - Former Minister of Public Enterprise Alec Erwin:
In Conversation with Alec Erwin, Former Minister of Trade & Industry (1996-2004), as well as Public Enterprises (2004-2008) & Former Deputy Minister of Finance (1994-1996)
Episode 05 - Dr. Frans Cronje On Mbekinomics: Mbekinomics, Economic, Fiscal and Social Achievements
Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi in conversation with Dr Frans Cronje on the economic, fiscal and social achievements of the first 15 years of democracy in South Africa under Thabo Mbeki and Nelson Mandela.
Episode 04 - Former Eskom CEO Jacob Maroga: Energy, Alleged Eskom Sabotage & Power Politics.
Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi in conversation with former Eskom CEO Jacob Maroga on Energy, Alleged Eskom Sabotage & Power Politics.
Episode 03 - Edward Kieswetter: Eskom, SARS and the engine room of a Democracy.
Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi sits down with Edward Kieswetter, SARS Commissioner and one of South Africa’s most respected public servants. From his early days running Eskom power stations to leading the transformation of SARS into one of the world’s most admired revenue authorities, Kieswetter takes us inside the engine room of a democracy.
Episode 02 - John Endres: Talks about the 2 Ages, BEE and the NDR
Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi in Conversation with South African Institute of Race Relations CEO, Dr John Endres. Endres, talks about the 2 Ages, BEE and the NDR
Episode 01 - Former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki
In the premiere episode of The African Renaissance Podcast, Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi sits down with President Thabo Mbeki, the visionary who first articulated the call for an African Renaissance. Together, they explore the origins of this powerful idea, its meaning today, and how a new generation can advance Africa’s renewal.A profound conversation on leadership, unity, and the unfinished work of recl
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