Facts & Friction

Facts & Friction

Welcome to Facts & Friction, the podcast that takes you beyond the breaking news and into the heart of the issues shaping our nation. In every episode, Zahid Jadwat, speaks to a panel of leading academics, researchers, politicians, and commentators. We don't just discuss current affairs; we deep dive. Expect rigorous, evidence-based analysis presented alongside candid, challenging debate. From economic policy and social justice to political shifts and global impacts, we explore the critical tensions and multifaceted perspectives that define modern South Africa.If you're a discerning listener seeking clarity, nuanced understanding, and a robust examination of the forces at play in our society, join us. 'Facts & Friction' is your essential guide to understanding the intricate tapestry of South African current events, grounded in reason and open to insightful disagreement. Tune in to strip away the noise and uncover the truth.

Episodes

March 22, 2025 23 mins
ActionSA MP Alan Beesley discusses the Cut Cabinet Perks Bill, a proposal aimed at reducing government expenditure on cabinet privileges.
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This episode was first broadcast on Salaamedia. 
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Join us as we sit down with Andrew Donaldson, Senior Research Associate at SALDRU (UCT) and former Treasury deputy director-general, to dissect South Africa’s budget saga. Get expert insights into the fiscal challenges, economic impacts, and what lies ahead.
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This interview was aired on Salaamedia on 16 March 2025. 
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March 15, 2025 30 mins
Professor Daniel Bradlow, Professor of International Development Law and African Economic Relations at the University of Pretoria, breaks down the G20—its inner workings, global impact and what’s at stake if it falters.
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In this episode, Zahid Jadwat speaks to award-winning journalist and editor Qaanitah Hunter about her latest book. Co-authored with Adriaan Basson, the book delves into South Africa's 30-year-old experience of democracy and the electoral choices ahead.
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"Who has earned Africa’s brotherhood, friendship, and loyalty?" asks Wandile Msomi, a researcher and author of Splendid Isolation.

In this episode, Zahid Jadwat speaks to Msomi about some of the big ideas in his book: the Cold War, BRICS, NATO, leadership in Africa and, ultimately, the continent's position in this complex world.

Timestamps:

00:45 What was the inspiration behind Splendid Isolation?
05:55 Why the Cold War as a starting ...
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Unbeknownst to most, South Africa is undergoing an incremental Revolution. Since 1994, the African National Congress (ANC) government has implemented a number of policies and legislation with one clear goal in mind: replace the capitalist economy with a socialist one. The National Democratic Revolution (NDR), as it is known, is unpacked in Dr Anthea Jeffrey's latest book, Countdown to Socialism. She joins Zahid Jadwat to discuss th...
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