African Renaissance Podcast
- Episodes
- 55
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 11, 2026
About the podcast
The African Renaissance Podcast hosted by Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi provides a stage for vital conversations with actors working to improve the lives of African people. It provides sharp analysis & critique of Africa's social, political & economic history.
Episodes 55
Mbeki on US/SA Relations and The Future of Afrikaners
What is happening to South Africa's democracy, its relationship with the United States, and the future of the Afrikaner community?In this special edition of the African Renaissance Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni …
Show notes
What is happening to South Africa's democracy, its relationship with the United States, and the future of the Afrikaner community?
In this special edition of the African Renaissance Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi is joined by His Excellency President Thabo Mbeki and a distinguished panel of journalists, scholars and policy experts for an in-depth conversation on the Thabo Mbeki Foundation's monograph examining US–South Africa relations and the future of the Afrikaner.Episode 49 - Dr Frans Cronje: GNU, Jobs and the Future of the State
In conversation with Dr Frans Cronje about the performance of South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) and the forces shaping the country’s political and economic future.From economic growth …
Show notes
In conversation with Dr Frans Cronje about the performance of South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) and the forces shaping the country’s political and economic future.
From economic growth, unemployment and energy policy to the weakening capacity of the state, Cronje examines why South Africa’s development has stalled and what that could mean for the GNU and the next chapter of democracy. The conversation explores his scenarios for the country’s future, including the possibility of an increasingly fragmented society in which private actors take over functions once performed by the state.
Episode 48 - Nelson Makamo: Art, African Identity, Independence and the Business of Creativity
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 …
Show notes
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 Mbeki Library, and his visionary 178-hectare land project designed to empower rural communities with clean spring water. Tune in to discover the strategic framework behind turning a 25-rand pencil sketch into a globally dominant independent brand.Episode 47 - Dr Judy Dlamini: Power, Accountability & the Burden of the African Woman
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 …
Show notes
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, and why leadership should be viewed as a responsibility rather than simply a title.
Episode 46 - Ringo Madlingozi: 30 Years of Music, Life Lessons and Nation Building
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 …
Show notes
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 creating after three decades in the industry.
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 …
Show notes
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 critical engagement.*
**** Don't Forget To Share And Subscribe****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 …
Show notes
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.
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 …
Show notes
"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 generation, the state of education, demographic change, birth registration and the importance of building intellectual and economic capacity.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 …
Show notes
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, addiction and public policy.
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 …
Show notes
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.
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 …
Show notes
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 conditions under which African women organised and struggled.
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 …
Show notes
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.
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 …
Show notes
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, the economy, undocumented migration and the political challenges facing the country.
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 …
Show notes
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 development, and the continuing impact of colonialism and slavery.
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 …
Show notes
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.
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 …
Show notes
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 …
Show notes
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.
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 …
Show notes
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 …
Show notes
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.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 …
Show notes
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 …
Show notes
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 …
Show notes
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 …
Show notes
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 …
Show notes
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 Minister of Home Affairs under Minister Mangosuthu Buthelezi. She served as deputy minister until the April 2004 general election, after which she joined cabinet as minister in the same portfolio. Concurrently, she was the president of the ANC Women's League from August 2003 to July 2008.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.
These are the latest 40 of 55 episodes. You’ll find older episodes in the podcast’s feed.
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