African Renaissance Podcast

In this profound episode of the African Renaissance Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi sits down with world-renowned South African visual artist Nelson Makamo. They unpack the realities of maintaining creative freedom, breaking away from exploitative gallery structures, and why African creators must become the primary authors of their own history. Makamo reveals exclusive details about his recent historic meeting with President Thabo Mbeki, his decision to donate his priceless archives to the Thabo...

In conversation with Dr Judy Dlamini for a wide-ranging conversation about women, leadership, inequality, medicine, corporate South Africa and the challenges facing the country and the continent. From the safety of women in South Africa to the barriers facing Black women in leadership, Dr Dlamini examines how history, inequality, institutional culture and leadership continue to shape people's lives. Dr Judy Dlamini also reflects on her own experiences, the importance of understanding history,...

Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi is in conversation with Ringo Madlingozi on 30 years since the release of his first album in 1996. From the origins of his distinctive sound and his early years in the Cape Flats to loss, survival, love, African unity and the changing South African music industry, Ringo reflects on the experiences that have shaped his music and career. Ringo also reflects on the songs and albums that shaped his career, the experiences behind his music, and what it means to continue creatin...

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 conversation are those of the participants and are shared to encourage informed discussion and critic...

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 Tom Moyane, and the role of external consultants in the transformation of the organisation.

"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 trajectory could shape the country by 2050 and beyond. The conversation also looks at the legacy of the 1976 ge...

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 drug criminalisation and organised crime, and the difficult questions surrounding alcohol, addi...

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 public service in South Africa.

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 apartheid system disrupted the Black family, transformed labour and household life, and shaped the condition...

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’s constitutional order.

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 views on international solidarity, South Africa's relationship with the African continent, unemployment,...

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 experiences of African youth, the meaning of independence, the relationship between freedom and dev...

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 issues, perspectives and developments shaping conversations about the country and the wider region.

In conversation with Prof. Achille Mbembe on some of the most important questions shaping Africa's future.

In conversation with Dr Lwazi Lushaba, we explore some of the most important philosophical questions shaping Africa and the world today.

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.

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 analysis on how societies respond during periods of uncertainty and social change.

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.

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 Mabuse.

In conversation with Charles Nqakula on The Alliance Crisis, MK Party, Police Corruption and South Africa's Political Future.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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 was appointed Chief Whip of the Majority Party, and merely six months later she became Deputy Min...

In conversation with Prof. Funmi Olonisakin on Power, Agency and the Crisis of African Leadership.

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.

In Conversation with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to South Africa, Shakib Mehr.

In Conversation with Mandisi Dyantyis on Life, Music and Faith.

In conversation with CEO of Thabo Mbeki Foundation, Max Boqwana on

In conversation with Brian Kagoro on Rethinking Africa's Development.

In Conversation with Gertrude Mongella on Women, Africa and UN.

In conversation with Prof. Vijay Prashad on Capitalist Crisis, War and The Global South.

In conversation with Trevor Manuel on Fiscal Policy, State Capacity and Governance Failure.

In Conversation with Gloria Serobe on Women Empowerment, BEE and Transnet

In conversation with Nduduzo Makhathini on African Rebirth and Improvisation.

In conversation with George Fivaz on Apartheid-Era Policing Structure, Right-Wing Threats and The Boeremag.

In conversation with the Venezuelan Ambassador Carlos Feo on strategy to secure Maduro's release, oil, sanctions and negotiations.

In conversation with SAFTU SG, Zwelinzima Vavi on Global Organised Labour, Trump, Counter Revolution and the Fall of the Congress Alliance.

In conversation with Prof. David Monyae and Mr Na’eem Jeenah on Oil, Power and the fall of American moral authority.

In Conversation with Dr J. Luke Wood on Transformation, Education and Africa's influence.

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.

In Conversation with Gospel Singer Lebo Sekgobela reflecting on fear, purpose, restoration and the power of holding on when the world says let go

In conversation with Dr Kayode Fayemi on Trump, Nigeria, South Africa & Who Controls the Narrative?

In Conversation with Victor Masondo. He speaks about grief, service, and the moment the bass stopped being an instrument and became a cry.

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.

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)

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.

Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi in conversation with former Eskom CEO Jacob Maroga on Energy, Alleged Eskom Sabotage & Power Politics.

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.

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

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 reclaiming Africa’s destiny.