Eskom's nuclear nightmare returns: Zuma-era ghost returns to haunt St Francis

Eskom's nuclear nightmare returns: Zuma-era ghost returns to haunt St Francis

From BizNews Radio by BizNews

April 28, 2026 · 34 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the controversial return of a nuclear power plant proposal in South Africa and its implications for local communities and heritage.

Is South Africa about to repeat its most expensive infrastructure mistakes? Ten years after a corruption-laden Russia/Zuma initiative was shelved, the controversial proposal for a nuclear power plant at Thyspunt near St Francis is back on the table. Communities in the Eastern Cape are sounding the alarm at a siting decision rooted in a 'homeland-distant' priority of a fearful Apartheid Regime. In this interview, Alec Hogg speaks with Trudi Malan, a passionate local activist and leader of the Thyspunt Alliance. She exposes Eskom's flawed scoping reports, the deadly lack of evacuation routes for residents, and the devastating threat to a global heritage site recognised as the cradle of modern humankind. Capping it all was the shocking arrogance displayed by officials at the required 'town halls' required as part of the public participation process. This is a must-listen for anyone concerned about South Africa's energy future and the protection of its heritage.

People in this episode

Host: Alec Hogg

Guest: Trudi Malan

Topics covered

  • nuclear power
  • infrastructure
  • corruption
  • energy future
  • community activism
  • heritage protection

Keywords

  • Eskom
  • nuclear power
  • Thyspunt
  • infrastructure mistakes
  • community activism
  • energy crisis
  • corruption
  • evacuation routes
  • heritage site

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Eskom

Books & works: Thyspunt Alliance

Places: South Africa, Thyspunt, St Francis, Eastern Cape

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