Political Analyist
Based: Johannesburg
Stephen Grootes is one of South Africa’s most respected political journalists and commentators, with more than 20 years of experience covering the country’s rapidly evolving political, economic and social landscape. Known for his incisive interviewing style and ability to unpack complex issues, he brings audiences an informed, accessible and often fascinating perspective on South African politics and where the country may be heading.
Stephen began his career in radio while studying journalism at Rhodes University and later joined Eyewitness News (EWN), where he developed into a senior political journalist and editor. His career has placed him on the ground at many of South Africa’s defining political moments — from the Schabir Shaik trial and major developments in Parliament to every ANC national conference since 2007.
He became widely known through 702 and CapeTalk, including five years presenting The Midday Report. In 2018, he moved to SAfm, where he hosted the flagship breakfast programme SAfm Sunrise for six years. In 2024, he returned to Primedia Broadcasting to take over The Money Show on 702 and CapeTalk, expanding his daily focus to the intersection of politics, business and the South African economy.
Stephen is also a television anchor with Newzroom Afrika and a long-standing writer and commentator for Daily Maverick. His book, SA Politics: Unspun, provides readers with a guide to understanding South Africa’s complex political landscape.
HIGHLIGHTS
• More than two decades covering South African politics and current affairs
• Current host of The Money Show on 702 and CapeTalk
• Anchor on Newzroom Afrika
• Long-standing writer and commentator for Daily Maverick
• Former host of SAfm Sunrise
• Former senior political journalist/editor at Eyewitness News
• Former presenter of The Midday Report on 702 and CapeTalk
• Author of SA Politics: Unspun
• Recipient of a Rhodes University Journalism and Media Studies Alumni Award in 2022, recognising his contribution to political analysis and his determination to hold political leaders accountable.
STEPHEN GROOTES AS A SPEAKER
Stephen is particularly compelling for corporate audiences seeking to understand South Africa beyond the headlines. Drawing on decades of direct engagement with politicians, policymakers, business leaders and decision-makers, he provides context around the forces influencing the country’s political and economic future.
His presentations can explore South Africa’s political landscape, coalition politics, governance, elections, leadership, economic policy, business confidence and the relationship between politics and the economy. His strength lies in taking complicated political developments and translating them into meaningful insights for business and leadership audiences.
Speaking Themes: South African Politics • Politics & the Economy • The State of the Nation • Leadership & Governance • Coalition Politics • Current Affairs • South Africa’s Future • Business & Political Risk
Ideal for: Leadership Conferences • Executive Strategy Sessions • Business Forums • Financial Services Events • Corporate Conferences • Board & Client Events • Political & Economic Briefings
