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Check FAQAbout Thuso
Thuso Khumalo is a seasoned journalist based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa, with a keen focus on South African politics, social issues, and health matters. His reporting has delved into the significant shifts within South Africa's political scene, especially the intricacies of coalition building in the aftermath of local government elections. Khumalo's expertise extends to television and radio, where he excels in news gathering, packaging, reporting, and conducting live crossings. His multifaceted skills also include shooting and providing targeted interviews, as well as supplying video footage or b-roll to meet the dynamic needs of modern media outlets. Khumalo's work has brought attention to pivotal historical events, such as the 40th anniversary of the Soweto uprising, where he offered insightful reflections on its enduring legacy and the persistent fight for educational equality in South Africa. His coverage is not limited to domestic issues; he has also reported on international health conferences, including the International AIDS Conference. There, he highlighted the concerted global efforts to combat the AIDS pandemic, underscored the critical need for preventing new HIV infections, and emphasized the ongoing search for an effective vaccine. With a career dedicated to uncovering and narrating stories that matter, Thuso Khumalo continues to be a prominent voice in journalism. His commitment to providing comprehensive and nuanced reporting helps to inform and engage audiences both within South Africa and across the globe.
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
South African Officials Prepare for Upcoming Elections
South Africa's Independent Electoral Commission is coordinating the upcoming general election, with the African National Congress anticipated to lose its outright majority in parliament for the first time since apartheid ended in 1994. Reporter Thuso Khumalo has spoken to election officials about their efforts to ensure a free, fair, and credible vote.
Organizers, Attendees Hail South Africa’s Kalahari Arts and Heritage Festival
The 2024 Kalahari Arts and Heritage Festival in Northern Cape, South Africa, was hailed as a success by organizers and attendees. The festival focuses on the nearly extinct San and Khoi populations.
South Africa Prepares to Navigate a Coal-Free Future
South Africa is under pressure to phase out its reliance on coal for energy, a transition that will cost billions and risk job losses. President Cyril Ramaphosa's Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan, costing €24 billion, aims to shift to renewable energy sources but requires external financial support. The plan is expected to impact the economy of Mpumalanga province and necessitate significant investment in car assembly plants. Labor unions are demanding job protection, while analysts highlight the challenges posed by the country's dependence on aging coal plants. Despite potential job losses, the government anticipates creating up to 815,000 jobs by 2050, supported by international loans and grants.
South Africa's Withdrawal from Israel: Relations at Rock Bottom
The South African Parliament has voted to close the Israeli embassy and suspend diplomatic relations with Israel until a permanent ceasefire is achieved in Gaza. The decision, driven by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and supported by the African National Congress (ANC), reflects South Africa's strong solidarity with Palestine, rooted in its own history of apartheid. The move has sparked controversy, with some supporting the pressure on Israel to negotiate, while others criticize it as undermining South Africa's role as a neutral mediator. The ANC is pushing for further actions, including an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision has drawn mixed reactions from various political and social groups within South Africa.
Israel: South Africa's request to the ICC divides opinions
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate alleged war crimes in Gaza, citing real-time occurrences. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have proposed closing the Israeli embassy and suspending diplomatic relations, a motion supported by the ruling African National Congress (ANC). However, the Freedom Front Plus (FF+) opposes this, arguing it would hinder South Africa's mediation role. The South African Zionist Federation defends Israel's right to self-defense. The article also touches on South Africa's inconsistent stance on ICC warrants, referencing past reluctance to act against Vladimir Putin and Omar Al Bashir.
South Africa's Referral of Israel to ICC Divides Opinion
South Africa's decision to refer Israel to the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes in Gaza has sparked significant debate. President Cyril Ramaphosa cited ongoing crimes, including those at Gaza's al-Shifa hospital. The Economic Freedom Fighters and the African National Congress support suspending diplomatic relations with Israel, while the Freedom Front Plus warns against losing mediation opportunities. Pro-Israel groups criticize South Africa's stance, urging focus on hostage release. The article also highlights South Africa's inconsistent positions on the ICC, referencing past incidents involving Russia and Sudan.
South African lawmakers vote to shut Israel's embassy
South African parliamentarians voted to close Israel's embassy and suspend diplomatic relations until a ceasefire with Hamas is reached. The motion, introduced by the EFF and supported by the ANC, passed with 248 votes in favor and 91 against. President Ramaphosa's government, which has been critical of Israel, will decide on the resolution's implementation. The vote is symbolic, and critics warn it could hinder South Africa's role in mediation. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 14,000. The South African Zionist Federation opposes the government's stance, while political analyst Kwandile Kondlo supports referring Israel to the ICC. Accusations of double standards regarding South Africa's stance on the ICC have been raised, citing past events with Russian President Putin and former Sudanese President Al Bashir.
South African lawmakers vote to shut Israel's embassy
South African parliamentarians voted in favor of a motion to close Israel's embassy and suspend diplomatic relations until a ceasefire is agreed in the conflict with Hamas. The motion, introduced by the Economic Freedom Fighters, passed with 248 votes in favor and 91 against. President Cyril Ramaphosa's government, which has been critical of Israel, will decide whether to implement the resolution. The African National Congress supported the motion, citing human rights concerns in Palestine. Critics, including the Freedom Front Plus, warned that cutting ties would hinder South Africa's ability to mediate in the conflict. Pro-Israel organizations criticized the South African government's stance, urging it to facilitate the release of hostages taken by Hamas. The article also highlights South Africa's referral of Israel to the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
South Africa prepares for a future without coal
As COP28 nears its end, global leaders in Dubai discuss climate issues, pressuring South Africa to reduce its near-total reliance on coal for energy. President Cyril Ramaphosa unveils a €74 billion Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan, aiming to phase out coal, adopt renewables, and create new jobs. The plan's high cost and potential job losses, especially in coal-dependent Mpumalanga, raise concerns. The National Union of Metalworkers demands job protection, while E3G criticizes coal dependency. Despite challenges, the government anticipates creating 815,000 jobs by 2050, supported by international loans and grants.
South Africa: The Benefits of Strengthening Ties with Iran
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's visit to South Africa aims to deepen partnerships amidst heavy U.S. economic sanctions. Raisi's strategy focuses on non-Western foreign policy, with recent visits to Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Historical ties between Iran and South Africa date back to the apartheid era, with Iran supporting liberation movements and lifting sanctions post-1994. The Joint Cooperation Commission (CCC) established in 1995 has facilitated numerous bilateral agreements. Iran's trade with Africa has significantly increased, with projections for further growth. South Africa seeks to leverage Iran's strategic location for BRICS trade, despite U.S. sanctions. Both nations share common global positions, advocating for a peaceful world.
Iran's President Is Visiting South Africa
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is visiting South Africa to strengthen ties amid US economic sanctions. Raisi's visit follows his trips to Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, aiming to diversify Iran's international relations. The visit underscores the historical relationship between Iran and South Africa, dating back to the apartheid era. Both nations seek to enhance bilateral relations in various sectors, including trade, technology, and energy. Iran's trade with Africa has significantly increased, with expectations of further growth. The visit also highlights South Africa's strategic role in facilitating Iran's connections with other BRICS countries.
South Africa prepares to navigate a coal
South Africa is under pressure to phase out its heavy reliance on coal for energy, a move that will come at a significant economic cost, including job losses. President Cyril Ramaphosa's Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan, estimated at €24 billion, aims to reduce coal dependence and invest in renewable energy. However, the country requires external financial support to implement the plan effectively. The transition is expected to impact the economy of Mpumalanga province and necessitate significant investment in car assembly plants for electric vehicle production. Labor unions are seeking job protection guarantees, while analysts highlight the challenges posed by the country's aging coal infrastructure and the financial struggles of the state utility Eskom. Despite the expected loss of up to 300,000 jobs, the government anticipates creating up to 815,000 jobs by 2050 through the transition.
Hosting PM’s aides, Blinken stresses need to surge Gaza aid, plan for post-war governance
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the urgency of increasing aid to Gaza and planning for post-war governance during a meeting with aides to the Israeli Prime Minister. He also highlighted the importance of preventing further escalation in Lebanon. The US expressed concerns about the capacity of the Iron Dome defense system in the event of a full-scale war with Hezbollah.
Protesters Call for an End to Israel-Hamas War at the US Consulate in South Africa
Protesters from diverse backgrounds in South Africa gathered outside the U.S. consulate to call for an end to the Israel-Hamas war, condemning the violence and civilian casualties. They urged the U.S. to pressure Israel to withdraw from occupied territories. Participants expressed various viewpoints, including support for a two-state solution, criticism of Israel's blockade of Gaza, and opposition to Hamas's actions. The South African government and the ruling ANC labeled Israel as an 'apartheid regime,' while U.S. President Joe Biden characterized Hamas's attack as terrorism.
South Africa beefs up security to stop illegal entries
South Africa's new Border Management Authority aims to strengthen border security and manage the movement of people and goods. The migration route from the Horn of Africa to South Africa remains popular due to various crises. The government insists the agency is not to shut out migrants but to protect borders. Critics, however, doubt its effectiveness due to budget and corruption issues. Regional economic development is seen as crucial to addressing illegal immigration. Since its establishment, the agency has intercepted stolen vehicles and prevented illegal entries.
South Africa: New Border Protection to Stop Illegal Migration
South Africa has established the Border Management Authority (BMA) to enhance border security and manage migration. The BMA aims to facilitate lawful movement and prevent illegal crossings, but faces skepticism regarding its effectiveness due to perceived corruption and lack of resources. Critics argue that addressing the root causes of migration, such as economic instability and conflict in neighboring countries, is essential. The BMA has reported some success in intercepting stolen vehicles and preventing illegal entries. The article includes perspectives from government officials, local organizations, and migration experts.
South Africa Looks to Dispel Violence Against Women
Violence against women and children remains a severe crisis in South Africa, with current crime statistics highlighting the dire situation. Police Minister Bheki Cele condemns the violence as shameful, urging government, law enforcement, and society to take immediate action. However, many women find that help is often insufficient and delayed.
Live reporting in Diepsloot South Africa where residents had just stoned to death a suspected foreign national robber.
Can South African Airways soar after sale falls through?
South African Airways' (SAA) crisis continues as the deal to sell a majority stake to the Takatso Consortium was terminated, leading to the referral of the collapsed deal to the Special Investigating Unit by South Africa's Parliament. The Department of Public Enterprises' negotiations with the consortium since 2021 for a 51% stake in SAA were part of efforts to end recurring bailouts. The government's demand for an increased sale price and prolonged negotiations led to the collapse of talks. Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan reassured SAA employees of job security and unveiled a future plan for the airline, including gradual growth initiatives. Reactions to the terminated negotiations were mixed, with some celebrating the halt of privatization and others suggesting government bailouts as a better solution.
South Africa commemorates 40 years since the Soweto uprising
South Africans commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Soweto uprising, where students protested against the apartheid regime's enforcement of Afrikaans in schools, leading to the death of an estimated 176 children. The article recounts the events of June 16, 1976, highlighting the peaceful intentions of the students and the violent response from the police. It discusses the iconic photograph of Hector Pieterson, a young victim, and the subsequent impact on his family and the nation. The legacy of the uprising is explored, with recognition of the progress made in South Africa since then, but also the ongoing challenges in achieving educational equality. The recent #FeesMustFall campaign and calls for 'decolonizing the curriculum' are mentioned as current reflections of the struggle for accessible and representative education for all South Africans.
South Africa's Political Shift: Coalition Building after Local Elections
South Africa's political landscape is undergoing a significant change following the recent local government elections. The African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) failed to secure a majority in 26 cities, including Johannesburg and Pretoria. This outcome necessitates coalition building among parties that have historically been at odds. The DA, led by Mmusi Maimane, has expressed a willingness to form coalitions but has excluded the ANC as a potential partner. Similarly, EFF leader Julius Malema has rejected any coalition with the ANC. The EFF could play a crucial role as a kingmaker in certain areas, but their controversial reputation makes them an undesirable partner for both the ANC and DA. Parties have until August 20 to finalize coalition agreements or face running minority governments. This election marks the beginning of a new era in South African politics, with traditional power dynamics being challenged.
International AIDS Conference Ends With a Call to Action
The 2016 International AIDS Conference in South Africa concluded with a call to action to end the AIDS pandemic by 2030. Delegates discussed key issues such as preventing new HIV infections, treating those infected, and finding a vaccine. Despite progress, the epidemic persists with over 1 million AIDS-related deaths last year and 20 million people untreated. Olive Shisana, the local co-chair, urged for a social justice movement, while Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi emphasized the need for a youth-led global campaign. The UN AIDS agency and Linda-Gail Bekker of the International AIDS Society highlighted the importance of implementing conference agreements and donor response to the Global Fund's call to action.
US Top Official Calls for Global Effort to Fight Poaching
US Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell concluded her visit to Africa with a stop in South Africa, advocating for international collaboration to fight wildlife trafficking. During her visit to Kruger National Park, she highlighted the issue of rhino poaching.
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