Who really shapes South Africa’s policy? Level Up with Phumi Mashigo explores
Who really shapes South Africa’s policy? A growing influence of foreign-funded NGOs in shaping South Africa’s legislation leads Level Up with Phumi Mashigo to interrogate this question. She is joined by Nhlanhla Ndlovu, CEO of NEDLAC Community Trust, a Community Constituency Structure, to explore whether international policy templates are drowning out South African realities, and what it will take to ensure local NGOs have a meaningful voice in the process. The Burning Platform
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44:56
What is AfriForum’s vision for South Africa? Ernst van Zyl answers
What is AfriForum’s vision for South Africa? Following their Democracy Unplugged panel discussion, Phumi Mashigo sits down with the organisation’s Ernst van Zyl for a candid conversation on its roots, its role in defending minority rights, and its views on South Africa’s current challenges and its controversial engagement with U.S. officials. As South Africa navigates complex political terrain, AfriForum shares its vision, and what its future hopes to look like. The Burning Platform
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57:15
David McWilliams on exploring money, how elites use money to control, and how SA can change
What happens when trust in money breaks down? In these economic times, Phumi Mashigo explores money, economies and more with author of "Money: A Story of Humanity" and economist David McWilliams. This conversation shows how money isn't just a financial tool - it's a shared belief, a social contract and one of the most powerful forces shaping our world. The Burning Platform
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44:15
Cheap cigarettes, costly secrets with Johnny Moloto
Is South Africa serious about fighting organised crime, or just blowing smoke? Phumi Mashigo takes a dive into the dark underbelly of our tobacco market with industry expert Johnny Moloto. As the Area Head of Corporate & Regulatory Affairs at British American Tobacco (BAT) Sub-Saharan Africa, Johnny unpacks the deep economic and public health impact of the trade - and why he believes foreign influence and weak enforcement are sabotaging efforts to fix it. He critiques the Tobacco Control Bill, questions government accountability, and calls for bold leadership, better regulation, and stronger action from SARS. The Burning Platform
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Lebogang Ramafoko on foreign funding and the political tension between donors
What are the real-time funding crises in South Africa, and how are they affecting vital health and social services, especially in underserved communities? In this powerful episode of Level Up, Phumi Mashigo is joined by thought-leader and social justice veteran Lebogang Ramafoko for a fearless deep dive into the state of South Africa’s NGO sector. From the fallout of USAID’s shutdown to the political ripple effects of foreign funding, Lebogang unpacks the growing tension between international donor agendas and local grassroots priorities. With nearly three decades of experience in health, media, and activism, she offers sharp insights on policy manipulation, government overreach, and the fragile social safety net NGOs are expected to uphold - often without the power or protection they need. The Burning Platform
After a decade run as South Africa’s first and longest-running online current affairs show, The Burning Platform, launched alongside CliffCentral.com in 2014 with Gareth Cliff and Justice Malala, is levelling up – Level Up with Phumi Mashigo. Phumi a founder host of CliffCentral and current Burning Platform co-anchor, will continue to bring insightful perspectives and questioning with thought leaders, politicians and social commentators on the critical issues that affect our lives. Podcasts available on Podcast Party app, website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms.
South Africa