Langa, a flawed yet culturally-rich township
A bustling hub of activity, Langa township in Cape Town, South Africa, is truly unique in so many ways. On every street....
Tendani Mulaudzi
Journalist. Writer. Changemaker.
My Articles
A 7-Year-Old's Reported Rape Case Has Reignited GBV Protests in South Africa | OkayAfrica
In October 2024, a mother in Matatiele, a town in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, sent her then 7-year-old daughter to school, as she did every day. Over the next few days, the mother noticed that her daughter, who has been given the pseudonym “Cwecwe” to protect her identity, was not her usual self. Details of what happened to her, how it happened, how the school and authorities responded, have sparked national outrage. Protests have broken out, and the hashtag #JusticeforCwecwe has sprea...
Story of recovery
“I’ve had my ups and downs and nearly six years ago my youngest son was killed in a car accident. I think that at that stage a lot of people suspected that I wouldn’t be able to sustain sobriety through that. I didn’t ever think that I would drink again but I don’t know how I didn’t because it was so excruciating, it’s still so unbelievably painful. I know you’re not ever meant to say you’re recovered but I know I am because I never drank again and if anything was going to be a test of my sobrie...
Help for a Gambling addiction
Gambling has become increasingly popular nationally. In 2024, South Africans contributed over R1 trillion to the gambling industry, a 40% increase from 2023. According to a study by an online sports betting company, 70% of South African gamblers do so to supplement their income as the cost of living rises and the unemployment rate remains one of the highest globally. With gambling becoming more accessible through online betting and casinos, hundreds of thousands of South Africans struggle with w...
Understanding Interventions for addiction
Addiction is a family disease, as it significantly impacts the individual, their family and friends. If you are concerned about a loved one, recognising the signs and knowing how and when to intervene can greatly assist in guiding them toward recovery. An intervention can be a daunting task for both the intervening party and the loved one struggling with addiction, so understanding how to approach the process is essential for reaching a positive outcome.
It is a common misconception that individ...
It is a common misconception that individ...
Employee Assistance Programmes and rehabilitation
An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a voluntary, work-based intervention offered by employers to support employees dealing with personal issues that might adversely affect their job performance, health and well-being. These programmes provide confidential services such as counselling and referrals to help employees manage various challenges, including addiction.
According to EAP-SA, “EAPs are designed to provide support for employees who are experiencing life issues that may impact their p...
According to EAP-SA, “EAPs are designed to provide support for employees who are experiencing life issues that may impact their p...
A Decade After #FeesMustFall: South Africa's Unending Education Crisis | OkayAfrica
This story contains mention of mental health crises that may be upsetting to some readers. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group and SA Federation for Mental Health have 24-hour mental health resources available.
A cycle of protest
#FeesMustFall was a hashtag that made waves on social media platforms back in 2015 when students from various South African universities protested against the rise in fees, demanding that the gov...
A cycle of protest
#FeesMustFall was a hashtag that made waves on social media platforms back in 2015 when students from various South African universities protested against the rise in fees, demanding that the gov...
Relapse and the need for continuous care
Relapse is a common challenge in addiction recovery and happens when a person stops maintaining their goal of avoiding the use of alcohol or other drugs and returns to previous use. Recovery is a lifelong process that requires ongoing support, and there is no cure for addiction. However, with a structured multi-phase approach to addiction treatment, including primary care, secondary care, halfway house (tertiary care) and 12-step meetings.
Addiction is a chronic condition, which makes relapse a...
Addiction is a chronic condition, which makes relapse a...
Parenting an autistic child
Parenting is challenging, even more so if a child has been diagnosed with a neurodivergent condition such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The parents of autistic children have to navigate a world that is not always accommodating of neurodivergence. ASD is a complex condition that presents in many ways, from social communication challenges to sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviours. Yet, behind every diagnosis is a child with unique strengths and a parent who must become an advocate, c...
Medical aid cover addiction treatment
South Africa is facing an addiction epidemic, with around 15% of the population struggling with substance abuse to varying degrees. Chances are, you or someone you love may face addiction during your lifetime. It can be daunting to try and figure out the best treatment options while considering what can be a sudden and unexpected financial burden. Knowledge of what coverage your medical aid provides is necessary should you need to schedule an admission into treatment. Does my medical aid cover a...
