Erin Bates
@ermbates.bsky.social
Award-winning freelance journalist based in Cape Town, South Africa. @carteblanche.co.za anchor and presenter. Shares ≠ endorsements. Views ≠ those of my employers.
South Africa's special envoy to the US, Mcebisi Jonas, has his work cut out for him, and little time to gain ground in the interests of South Africa's minnow (to use economist Dawie Roodt's metaphor) economy. More on #CarteBlanche
@carteblanche.co.za tomorrow from 19:00.
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@carteblanche.co.za tomorrow from 19:00.
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As US President Donald Trump makes a sharp U-turn on drastic tariff policies, we look at whether South African farmers can weather the economic storm. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
April 19, 2025 at 7:37 PM
South Africa's special envoy to the US, Mcebisi Jonas, has his work cut out for him, and little time to gain ground in the interests of South Africa's minnow (to use economist Dawie Roodt's metaphor) economy. More on #CarteBlanche
@carteblanche.co.za tomorrow from 19:00.
bsky.app/profile/cart...
@carteblanche.co.za tomorrow from 19:00.
bsky.app/profile/cart...
Reposted by Erin Bates
As US President Donald Trump makes a sharp U-turn on drastic tariff policies, we look at whether South African farmers can weather the economic storm. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
April 19, 2025 at 5:30 PM
As US President Donald Trump makes a sharp U-turn on drastic tariff policies, we look at whether South African farmers can weather the economic storm. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
Reposted by Erin Bates
In South Africa’s aviation industry, highly skilled air traffic officials have been leaving in droves. Are our air traffic navigation services missing deadlines and taking shortcuts? That's in an upcoming episode of #CarteBlanche, only on M-Net channel 101.
April 18, 2025 at 7:01 AM
In South Africa’s aviation industry, highly skilled air traffic officials have been leaving in droves. Are our air traffic navigation services missing deadlines and taking shortcuts? That's in an upcoming episode of #CarteBlanche, only on M-Net channel 101.
Reposted by Erin Bates
The multi-million rand Botmaskop Estate development has been put on hold pending a full court review to be done later this year. In October last year, #CarteBlanche asked questions about how the project was initially approved. You can watch that story now on our website.
April 17, 2025 at 10:41 AM
The multi-million rand Botmaskop Estate development has been put on hold pending a full court review to be done later this year. In October last year, #CarteBlanche asked questions about how the project was initially approved. You can watch that story now on our website.
Reposted by Erin Bates
South Africa is the second largest exporter of citrus in the world. But a looming global trade war over America’s tough new tariffs could threaten our citrus industry. So, can our farmers weather the economic storm? That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
April 17, 2025 at 9:00 AM
South Africa is the second largest exporter of citrus in the world. But a looming global trade war over America’s tough new tariffs could threaten our citrus industry. So, can our farmers weather the economic storm? That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
Reposted by Erin Bates
In some parts of Botswana, elephants outnumber people two to one. And with proximity comes conflict. Who’s paying the price for this conservation success? That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
April 16, 2025 at 7:01 PM
In some parts of Botswana, elephants outnumber people two to one. And with proximity comes conflict. Who’s paying the price for this conservation success? That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
Reposted by Erin Bates
As a global tariff war continues, we ask: can SA farmers weather the economic storm? Then, a conservation triumph, or a deadly pest? Botswana's elephants are in the spotlight. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
April 15, 2025 at 4:30 PM
As a global tariff war continues, we ask: can SA farmers weather the economic storm? Then, a conservation triumph, or a deadly pest? Botswana's elephants are in the spotlight. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
Reposted by Erin Bates
A top Johannesburg clinic claims to cure migraines. But its founder, Dr Elliot Shevel - once seen as a pioneer - is now on trial for murder. @ermbates.bsky.social investigates his dramatic downfall. Watch the full story now on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
Deadly headaches
It’s a well-known clinic performing what’s described as groundbreaking procedures on people suffering severe headaches and migraines. And it was founded by a doctor regarded by many as a pioneer in his field. That is until he was put on trial. Dr Elliot Shevel has led The Headache Clinic in Johannesburg for 30 years, and he says he has permanently cured thousands of people of chronic pain. So, how did his legacy unravel so dramatically? Erin Bates went in search of answers.For the full story, get DStv Stream Premium: https://bit.ly/DStv-Stream
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April 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM
A top Johannesburg clinic claims to cure migraines. But its founder, Dr Elliot Shevel - once seen as a pioneer - is now on trial for murder. @ermbates.bsky.social investigates his dramatic downfall. Watch the full story now on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
Reposted by Erin Bates
The Western Cape saw the highest murder increase last year, and stabbing is a leading cause of death. But forensic science knows little about the effect of sharp force trauma on body decomposition. @ermbates.bsky.social joined researchers to find out how they're pushing the boundaries of forensics.
April 7, 2025 at 5:00 PM
The Western Cape saw the highest murder increase last year, and stabbing is a leading cause of death. But forensic science knows little about the effect of sharp force trauma on body decomposition. @ermbates.bsky.social joined researchers to find out how they're pushing the boundaries of forensics.
Reposted by Erin Bates
In an effort to ensure his recreations of fading San rock art are historically accurate, Stephen uses the same methods and tools. But that doesn't mean technology doesn't have its place... #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:55 PM
In an effort to ensure his recreations of fading San rock art are historically accurate, Stephen uses the same methods and tools. But that doesn't mean technology doesn't have its place... #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
Rock art sites are sacred and should be treated as such. Unfortunately, these ancient paintings are under threat as people touch the paintings, or even pour water on them to bring out the colours. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:49 PM
Rock art sites are sacred and should be treated as such. Unfortunately, these ancient paintings are under threat as people touch the paintings, or even pour water on them to bring out the colours. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
Forensic artist Stephen Townley Bassett comes from a long line of rock art preservation experts. Both his father and uncle dedicated their lives to ensuring these sacred paintings are protected for future generations. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:47 PM
Forensic artist Stephen Townley Bassett comes from a long line of rock art preservation experts. Both his father and uncle dedicated their lives to ensuring these sacred paintings are protected for future generations. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
Next on #CarteBlanche: Ancient artworks that offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the San. But time has faded their masterpieces. Now, forensic artist Stephen Townley Bassett is reviving this sacred art. @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:42 PM
Next on #CarteBlanche: Ancient artworks that offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the San. But time has faded their masterpieces. Now, forensic artist Stephen Townley Bassett is reviving this sacred art. @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
In 2021, Marinella Avvakoumides underwent Dr Shevel's Desensitisation Procedure to help relieve debilitating cluster headaches. Hours later, she collapsed and died - medical reports show significant damage to her brain and spinal canal. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:18 PM
In 2021, Marinella Avvakoumides underwent Dr Shevel's Desensitisation Procedure to help relieve debilitating cluster headaches. Hours later, she collapsed and died - medical reports show significant damage to her brain and spinal canal. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
Tristan Clarke's father, Bruce, saw Dr Shevel at The Headache Clinic to treat recurring migraines in 2022. But Bruce allegedly collapsed during the procedure and is now unable to walk or talk. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:10 PM
Tristan Clarke's father, Bruce, saw Dr Shevel at The Headache Clinic to treat recurring migraines in 2022. But Bruce allegedly collapsed during the procedure and is now unable to walk or talk. #CarteBlanche @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
First up on #CarteBlanche: A renowned maxillofacial surgeon is facing murder charges in Gauteng. Two patients died under his care after he performed a complicated and invasive procedure on their skulls. @ermbates.bsky.social
April 6, 2025 at 5:05 PM
First up on #CarteBlanche: A renowned maxillofacial surgeon is facing murder charges in Gauteng. Two patients died under his care after he performed a complicated and invasive procedure on their skulls. @ermbates.bsky.social
Reposted by Erin Bates
He lived by crime and died in a hail of bullets. But alongside him, four private security guards also perished. Police call it justice. Families say otherwise. Who's telling the truth? #CarteBlanche investigates tonight at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream and Catch Up. #SouthAfrica
April 6, 2025 at 4:00 PM
He lived by crime and died in a hail of bullets. But alongside him, four private security guards also perished. Police call it justice. Families say otherwise. Who's telling the truth? #CarteBlanche investigates tonight at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream and Catch Up. #SouthAfrica
Reposted by Erin Bates
It was a complicated and invasive procedure on their skulls. Now, two people are dead and the renowned headache doctor who performed the operation is facing murder charges. That's #CarteBlanche tonight at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream and Catch Up. #SouthAfrica
April 6, 2025 at 2:58 PM
It was a complicated and invasive procedure on their skulls. Now, two people are dead and the renowned headache doctor who performed the operation is facing murder charges. That's #CarteBlanche tonight at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream and Catch Up. #SouthAfrica
Reposted by Erin Bates
Ancient artworks that offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the San. But time has faded their masterpieces. Now, forensic artist Stephen Townley Bassett is reviving this sacred art. Join #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
April 6, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Ancient artworks that offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the San. But time has faded their masterpieces. Now, forensic artist Stephen Townley Bassett is reviving this sacred art. Join #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream.
Reposted by Erin Bates
He lived by crime and died in a hail of bullets. But alongside him, four private security guards also perished. Police call it justice. Families say otherwise. Who's telling the truth? That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream. #SouthAfrica #Crime
April 5, 2025 at 4:01 PM
He lived by crime and died in a hail of bullets. But alongside him, four private security guards also perished. Police call it justice. Families say otherwise. Who's telling the truth? That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream. #SouthAfrica #Crime
Reposted by Erin Bates
A renowned maxillofacial surgeon is facing murder charges in Gauteng. Two patients died under his care after he performed a complicated and invasive procedure on their skulls. #CarteBlanche investigates this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream. #SouthAfrica
April 5, 2025 at 7:00 AM
A renowned maxillofacial surgeon is facing murder charges in Gauteng. Two patients died under his care after he performed a complicated and invasive procedure on their skulls. #CarteBlanche investigates this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101, and on DStv Stream. #SouthAfrica
Reposted by Erin Bates
It's #CarteBlanche o'clock! We're looking at loyalty programmes - worth it or nah? Then, we confront Transnet about its terrible port terminal. We explore the cosmos at the revamped Wits Planetarium! And why has govt failed to implement a vital vetting process to weed out sexual predators?
February 23, 2025 at 5:04 PM
It's #CarteBlanche o'clock! We're looking at loyalty programmes - worth it or nah? Then, we confront Transnet about its terrible port terminal. We explore the cosmos at the revamped Wits Planetarium! And why has govt failed to implement a vital vetting process to weed out sexual predators?
Join the #CarteBlanche @carteblanche.co.za team live now on MNet channel 101 on DStv, with Claire Mawisa and Govan Whittles in studio presenting tonight's programme. First up: how do sexual predators evade consequences, securing placements at schools where they can groom children?
February 23, 2025 at 5:08 PM
Join the #CarteBlanche @carteblanche.co.za team live now on MNet channel 101 on DStv, with Claire Mawisa and Govan Whittles in studio presenting tonight's programme. First up: how do sexual predators evade consequences, securing placements at schools where they can groom children?
Reposted by Erin Bates
South Africans love loyalty programmes. But are they true savings or just data-driven business? Points and discounts help, but are we really winning - or just playing into the system? That's #CarteBlanche tonight at 7pm on M-Net channel 101.
February 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM
South Africans love loyalty programmes. But are they true savings or just data-driven business? Points and discounts help, but are we really winning - or just playing into the system? That's #CarteBlanche tonight at 7pm on M-Net channel 101.
Reposted by Erin Bates
Transnet coughed up R140 million for second-hand equipment to ease up pressure in the Cape Town Container Terminal. But it seems those machines have just added to the pressure. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101. #SouthAfrica
February 23, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Transnet coughed up R140 million for second-hand equipment to ease up pressure in the Cape Town Container Terminal. But it seems those machines have just added to the pressure. That's #CarteBlanche this Sunday at 7pm on M-Net channel 101. #SouthAfrica