Videos

The ANC’s Nuclear Option Must Be Economic Growth

CRA Executive Director Chris Hattingh is joined by the CEO of the Institute of Race Relations (IRR), Dr John Endres unpack the recent National Convention of the National Dialogue, the fallout, developments within the ANC, and South Africa’s access to the global SWIFT payment system. Dr Endres and Mr Hattingh also discuss the importance of pragmatic engagement with South Africa's trade partners as well as the barriers to and importance of economic growth to effectively address South Africa's many issues.

SA’s Window of Opportunity

From Washington, CRA Executive Director Chris Hattingh shares key takeaways for South Africa’s government on navigating relations with the United States (US). From the urgency of compromise to the risks of waiting for a new administration, Mr Hattingh explains why the current moment may be South Africa’s best chance to secure trade and investment deals — and why future US leaders could be far less pragmatic.

A Relationship on Thin Ice

CRA Executive Director Chris Hattingh is in Washington DC to gain exclusive insights about the latest developments in the US-South Africa relationship. He details how leaders on Capitol are frustrated about South Africa’s perceived antagonistic foreign policy, how the country's domestic policies are affecting US businesses, and the underperformance of the Government of National Unity.

Disconnected & disorganised defence: The state of the SANDF

The CRA's Chris Hattingh speaks to Ricardo Teixeira, Editor at ProtectionWeb, and Defence and National Security Analyst at defenceWeb about the state of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The two discuss the impact of patronage and cadre deployment, the lack of military resources and equipment, low morale amongst troops, the likelihood of a coup, and the recommendations of the 2015 Defence Review. Mr Teixeira also details the intention of state-owned arms manufacturer Denel to develop new equipment in light of the Department of Defence's failure to ensure adequate funding.

Distractions, deflections and scapegoats

Anlu Keeve speaks to the CRA’s Chris Hattingh about recent developments in the relationship between the United States (US) and South Africa, including accusations that members of the Democratic Alliance are spreading disinformation about South Africa's domestic policies. Mr Hattingh further unpacks the growing diplomatic rift between the US and South Africa, noting the defensiveness of the South African Government as it attempts to shut down criticism of its foreign policy posture.

The US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act progresses

CRA Executive Director Chris Hattingh provides a quick update on the latest developments in SA-US trade and diplomatic relations.

Damage control, not problem solving

Gideon Joubert joins the CRA’s Chris Hattingh to unpack South Africa's newly released National Security Strategy, the explosive allegations from KZN Provincial Commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and the current health of the nation's security apparatus. They explore how these revelations could impact the African National Congress (ANC) politically as it approaches its pivotal 2027 elective conference. Joubert critically examines President Ramaphosa's recent announcement of yet another Commission of Inquiry on 13 July, highlighting widespread public skepticism given past experiences, notably the Zondo Commission. The discussion further interrogates the timing and intent behind the National Security Strategy’s release, questioning whether it represents genuine reform or merely damage control aimed at managing public perceptions amid heightened concerns about potential instability and coup risks in South Africa.

Can SA Withstand US Tariff Pressure?

IRR researcher Anlu Keeve and CRA Executive Director Chris Hattingh discuss the announcement by the United States to impose a 30% blanket tariff on South African products. They unpack the United States' evolving stance on global trade, the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, and South Africa’s position in the shifting trade landscape. Mr Hattingh outlines President Trump’s "America First" approach, and explains how "non-tariff barriers" could become tools of pressure. Ms Keeve and Mr Hattingh further explore how South Africa can strengthen its trade credibility; by attracting skilled professionals, unlocking its consumer market, and accelerating reforms in rail and port infrastructure.