First Take SA

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane has announced the withdrawal of recently appointed chairpersons of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) with immediate effect. This after backlash that condemned the ANC's alleged attempts to capture Sector SETAs through alleged crony appointments. To elaborate further on the Union's concerns, Elvis Presslin spoke to GIWUSA President, Mametlwe Sebei

KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC Siboniso Duma has expressed deep concern over payment delays affecting over 2,000 service providers. Duma says the R1.5 billion in outstanding payments is linked to technical glitches in a new accounting system. MEC Duma says management is working with the national treasury and provincial treasury to clear these payments. This comes after frustrated contractors yesterday, including road builders and public transport providers, stormed the Department's offices, demanding long-overdue compensation for their work. Elvis Presslin spoke to KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma

The Western Cape High Court has ruled that certain sections of the Refugees Act are unconstitutional. The court ruled that considering asylum seekers to have abandoned their applications for failing to renew visas within a month is unfair and breaches international law protecting refugees from forced return to danger. Elvis Presslin spoke to James Chapman, Head of Advocacy and Legal Advisor at Scalabrini, the organisation that brought this matter before the courts

The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) is calling for national unity, urging citizens to put aside differences that hinder progress. This appeal comes amid heated debates surrounding the departure of 49 Afrikaners to the US, who claimed they faced genocide in South Africa. The call for unity also coincides with President Cyril Ramaphosa's upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump, where South Africa's land expropriation laws and foreign policy are likely to be discussed. To discuss this matter further Elvis Presslin spoke to SACCI CEO, Alan Mukoki

The Public Servants Association has raised concern over the National Lotteries Commission's alleged near collapse. The Union is citing mismanagement, corruption and poor oversight. The PSA says the crisis threatens vital community programs and workers' livelihoods. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zamani Dladla, PSA Chief Negotiator at the National Lotteries Commission, to discuss this matter further

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, has withdrawn the appointments of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) chairpersons amid allegations of cronyism and political interference. The move follows public outcry over the appointment of individuals with alleged ANC connections, including Gwede Mantashe's son and a former KZN Premier. Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF MP, Sihle Lonzi, to discuss the implications of this decision

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back". Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

The Public Servants Association (PSA) in KwaZulu-Natal is calling for urgent action following the tragic death of a medical intern at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, allegedly due to being forced to work while critically ill. The PSA is demanding the immediate suspension of implicated staff and a comprehensive, independent investigation to address the toxic work environment. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mlungisi Ndlovu, Provincial Manager of PSA in KwaZulu-Natal

As cyber threats escalate in South Africa, individuals and businesses are increasingly vulnerable to data breaches, phishing scams, and misinformation campaigns. With the South African government's push for digital transformation, cybersecurity is more crucial than ever. Elvis Presslin spoke to Thabang Phala, Chief Empowerment Officer at CyberM8, to explore the challenges and provide solutions on protecting citizens and businesses against cyber risks

As graduation season is in full swing in various universities, education activist Hendrick Makaneta has urged universities to rein in what he calls chaos disguised as celebration during graduations. He says the waving of knobkerries and assegais on stage is a safety risk and disrespects the dignity of the ceremony. While supporting cultural pride, Makaneta insists traditions must not disrupt proceedings or endanger others. Elvis Presslin spoke to Hendrick Makaneta, an education activist

The Gauteng police have opened an inquest docket into the tragic discovery of the body of 11-year-old Jayden Lee Meek in Fleurhof, west of Johannesburg. The body was found on a staircase at the Swazi Complex, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Elvis Presslin spoke to Fleurhof Community leader and activist, Selby Leshaba

A leaked document revealing appointments to Sector Education and Training Authority, SETA boards has raised concerns over the potential politicisation of these key institutions. The Democratic Alliance has written to the Higher Education and Training Portfolio Committee to object, citing the inclusion of prominent ANC-linked individuals, such as Minister Gwede Mantashe's son Buyambo and a former KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube. Elvis Presslin spoke to Karabo Khakhau, DA National Spokesperson

Thousands of artists and cultural workers marched on the Union Buildings in Pretoria yesterday, calling for accountability and reform in the cultural and creative industries. The march, which culminated in the handing over of a memorandum of demands to the Presidency and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, was driven by concerns over systemic collapse of arts governance, erosion of funding transparency, and political interference. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Spokesperson for the Cultural and Creative Industries March, Zama Ntshona

The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) has raised concerns over the employment of foreign nationals in sensitive government positions in South Africa. This follows the appointment of a Zimbabwean national as Chief Heritage Officer at Robben Island in Cape Town. The party is warning of potential public security risks and is calling for government departments to prioritize the hiring of South African citizens. To elaborate on the ACDP's concerns, Elvis Presslin spoke to Party President, Reverend Dr. Kenneth Meshoe

Thousands of students and graduates at Tshwane University of Technology's six campuses are reportedly being denied academic records and certificates due to NSFAS's alleged failure to pay fees, while others have been suddenly defunded. Sthembiso Sithole, Chairperson of the Mpumalanga Unemployed Graduates Movement says the non-payment has sparked fears of eviction and mass dropouts among students. Elvis Presslin spoke to Sthembiso Sithole

South African schools are grappling with a disturbing trend of teacher misconduct, with 111 reported cases of sexual misconduct against pupils between April 2024 and March 2025, resulting in 39. A fortieth teacher was recently fired in KwaZulu-Natal for kissing and sexually assaulting a learner. To discuss this issue, Elvis Presslin spoke to Nomusa Cembi, spokesperson for the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU)

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has launched a scathing attack on Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's administration, accusing it of failing to curb rising unemployment in the province. Gauteng's unemployment rate has increased to 34.7%, with 2.7 million residents now jobless. The DA's Shadow MEC for Economic Development, Mike Moriarty, argues that the administration's economic strategies and "Nansi Ispani" programme have not delivered sustainable jobs. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mike Moriarty

The ANC has strongly condemned the United States government's decision to grant refugee status to 49 Afrikaners, calling it a fabrication designed to delegitimize South Africa's democracy. The party argues that these individuals are not fleeing persecution, but rather seeking to avoid transformation and accountability for historic privilege. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst Dr. Piet Croucamp

The Azanian People's Organisation (AZAPO) has strongly condemned the recent migration of 49 white Afrikaners to the United States, accusing them of fleeing accountability for past injustices and betraying their country. AZAPO is calling for these individuals to be stripped of their South African citizenship, labeling them "enemies of the state." Elvis Presslin spoke to Jabu Rakwena, AZAPO's Secretary for Publicity and Information

The South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU) has condemned a Labour Court ruling that exempts the City of Tshwane from paying a 5.4% wage increase for the 2023/24 financial year. The judgment, delivered by Judge Snyman on Friday also sends a separate exemption application from the 2021/22 period back to the bargaining council for review. SAMWU says the ruling undermines collective bargaining and sets a dangerous precedent that weakens workers' rights. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMWU Deputy General Secretary, Nkhetheni Muthavhi

President Cyril Ramaphosa says white Afrikaners leaving for the United States do not qualify as refugees. His statement follows the arrival of the first group in the US on Monday, after being granted refugee status by the Trump administration. The group departed from Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday. Ramaphosa says Afrikaners face no persecution or mistreatment in South Africa, and that their departure stems from unwillingness to accept the country's constitutional reforms. To discuss this matter, Elvis Presslin spoke to Sam Busa, founder of the organisation Amerikaners and ANC Chief Whip, Mdumiseni Ntuli.....

The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has expressed deep concern over the continued decline of South Africa's manufacturing sector, citing the latest official data from Statistics South Africa. According to SAFTU, this decline reflects a systemic economic crisis rooted in neoliberal policies, falling investment levels, and an extractive economic structure that has never been dismantled. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAFTU National Spokesperson, Newton Masuku, to discuss this further

Controversial Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso is set to appear in court today after his arrest by Eastern Cape police for immigration violations. This follows his recent acquittal on charges of rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Local residents are now calling for his deportation. For more Elvis Presslin spoke to Eastern Cape ANCWL spokesperson, Landy Sikhinzi

ActionSA has renewed its long-standing appeal to Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, for the recovery of the bodies of three mineworkers - Solomon Nyirenda, Pretty Mkambule, and Yvonne Mnisi, who tragically lost their lives in the Lily Mine disaster in February 2016. Despite the passage of over nine years, the bodies remain trapped underground.ActionSA is urging government to take decisive action by retrieving the bodies. Elvis Presslin spoke to Herman Mashaba, Leader of ActionSA, to delve deeper into the party's appeal

The Supreme Court of Appeal will today hear the case of Manyaku Maria Thulare's appeal against the previous judgement by Judge Ephraim Makgoba, which dethroned her as Acting Queen of Bapedi. This is a culmination of a back-and-forth where the Thulare Royal House of Bapedi Kingdom wanted the recognition of Prince Morwa-mohube Thulare as Acting King of Bapedi. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Makoko Sekhukhune, Coordinator and Agent of Bapedi Kingdom Under King Thulare

The Gauteng Department of Health is set to appeal a court order mandating it to provide cancer treatment for patients. This despite an interim court order requiring the Department to provide radiation oncology services. The Cancer Alliance and SECTION27 say the will oppose the appeal. To discuss this further we are joined on the line by Head of Health Rights at Section27, Khanyi Mapipa....

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV (14th). He's the first American to hold the position. Father Hugh O'Connor, Secretary General of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference, joins us for reaction. Father O'Connor...

Police investigating the disappearance of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Precious Mdhluli have found two bodies, believed to be the couple. The discovery was made after suspects in custody led authorities to the location. DNA tests are now being carried out to confirm the identities of the bodies. For more on this we're now joined by African Media and Communicators Forum Chairperson, Elijah Mhlanga...

The G20 Financial Inclusion and Women Empowerment Conference wraps up today at Sun City Resort in North West Province. Hosted by the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, this 3-day event has brought together policymakers, academics, and advocates to craft actionable strategies for transforming financial systems, promoting economic justice, and boosting entrepreneurial opportunities for women. Joining us to discuss the conference is Dr. Patrick Ebewo, Co-Chairperson of the G20 Conference and Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)...

Bed wetting is one of the most common childhood conditions, yet it remains a silent struggle in many households due to stigma, shame, and misinformation. A South African study found that 16% of children aged 5 to 10 experience bedwetting, with the condition occurring twice as often in boys than in girls. Dr Andrew Ferreirinha, a pediatrician says bed wetting is not a behavioral issue or a parenting failure but a developmental condition that most children will outgrow with the right support. To discuss this further we are joined on the line by Dr. Andrew Ferreirinha, a pediatrician at Mediclinic Kloof..

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling for a comprehensive review of the South African Police Service's internal disciplinary regulations following the acquittal of Deputy President Paul Mashatile's VIP protectors. The officers were caught on video assaulting civilians, yet an internal SAPS disciplinary committee found no wrongdoing. Although a court case against the eight VIP Protection Officers is still ongoing, the DA insists that no one is above the law.Elvis Presslin spoke to Lesiba Thobakgale, Spokesperson of the South African Policing Union (SAPU)...

The Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools is today celebrating the 100th anniversary of Afrikaans, a language with a complex history and significant cultural importance in South Africa. FEDSAS CEO, Dr. Jaco Deacon joins us to discuss the celebration, the importance of mother-tongue education, and the language's role in the country's identity...

Scores of residents at the Durban Deep informal settlement in Roodepoort, Johannesburg, are facing forced evictions, allegedly to make way for a power station project. The residents claim they weren't provided with formal eviction notices and are being relocated to another informal area that is plagued by crime and poor living conditions. Elvis Presslin spoke to Xolani Madiba, President of the Mofolo South Youth Forum...

The Public Servants Association (PSA) has accused the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health of financial mismanagement, by leaving suppliers unpaid and accumulating a staggering debt of over R1.7 billion. The Department has admitted that payments will only be made in the next financial year. Elvis Presslin spoke to PSA Provincial Organiser, Xolani Dhlamini

Power has been restored at Weskoppies Hospital after the Gauteng Health Department struck a deal with the City of Tshwane. This follows Monday's disconnection over R1.2 million in unpaid electricity bills. The department says contingency plans kept services running despite the blackout. But DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC Jack Bloom has slammed the situation, saying patients should not suffer due to poor planning urging mature engagement between health officials and the city to prevent such crises. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, Jack Bloom...

The Catholic Church has begun its ancient ritual to select a new pope. 133 cardinals are meeting in Rome, in a secretive conclave to choose the successor to Pope Francis, who has passed away. To discuss this historic moment, Elvis Presslin spoke to Father Hugh O'Connor, Secretary General of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference

The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has declined Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike's request to summon podcaster MacGyver "MacG" Mukwevho to Parliament over derogatory comments about media personality Minnie Dlamini. The Committee voted with the majority deciding against further escalation. To discuss this further, Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Member of Parliament and Member of Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Meagan Chauke-Adonis

The Democratic Alliance in Johannesburg has slammed the current state of the city, saying it's on the brink of collapse due to poor leadership, mismanagement, and misplaced priorities. Delivering what it calls a "True State of the City" address, the DA insists Johannesburg needs leadership that puts residents before politics. This comes ahead of today's official State of the City Address by Executive Mayor Dada Morero, set to take place at the Conny Bapela Council Chamber in Braamfontein. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader, Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku

The medical humanitarian charity, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, says its hospital in Old Fangak Town in South Sudan's Jonglei State's Fangak County was bombed by SSPDF planes in the wee hours of Saturday morning. MSF says the bombing resulted in several deaths and injuries. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Association Director of Médecins Sans Frontières, Monica Genya

Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth has criticized the Democratic Alliance's decision to challenge the Employment Equity Amendment Act in court. The DA is set to present its case in the Pretoria High Court today. Minister Meth argues that the challenge threatens transformation and progress made since 1994. To discuss the implications, Elvis Presslin spoke to Thembinkosi Mkalipi, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Employment and Labour

The City of Ekurhuleni has taken disciplinary action against nearly 400 metropolitan police officers over an illegal strike that brought major highways to a standstill. The officers face possible dismissal after being accused of severe misconduct for blockading key roads In March this year. The officers were demanding improved working conditions, salary adjustments and overtime compensation. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Chris Skheto, SAMWU Ekurhuleni Regional Chairperson

The Constitutional Court will today rule on a law that automatically strips South Africans of their citizenship when they acquire another country's citizenship. Until June 2023, many citizens were unaware that taking up foreign citizenship, other than by birth, could cost them their South African status. The Democratic Alliance challenged the matter in court, arguing that citizens who lost their citizenship were not informed of the need to apply to retain it. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Adrian Roos, DA Spokesperson on Home Affairs

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back". Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Johannesburg says it is appalled and disturbed by the inhumane and unethical treatment of a Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer who was reportedly denied emergency medical care after being shot in the line of duty. UDM says it has noted with grave concern that Milpark Hospital allegedly refused to treat the officer citing an alleged municipal debt of R35 million. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to UDM Councilor in the City of Johannesburg and Chairperson of the S79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities, Yongama Zigebe

The National Union of Mineworkers is pursuing legal action following disturbing allegations from female workers at Kopanang Gold Mine, who claim they were forced to strip and undergo invasive searches by security guards looking for stolen gold. The union has denounced these acts as degrading and unlawful. Elvis Presslin spoke to Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has raised concern over the safety of journalists in South Africa during a visit to the family of missing journalist Sibusiso Ndlovu in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga. Ndlovu, the founder of Capital Live FM, and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli were reported missing in February this year. For more Elvis Presslin spoke to Elijah Mhlanga, Chairperson of the African Media and Communicators Forum, who accompanied the Minister during the visit to Ndlovu's mother

The Democratic Alliance will today address the media regarding its High Court challenge against government's new employment equity law. The DA argues these race-based employment quotas could exclude countless South Africans from job opportunities. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Labour spokesperson, Michael Bagraim

INTRO: Build One South Africa (BOSA) will stage a picket today outside the City of Cape Town Civic Centre to protest the City's proposed tariff increases. BOSA has slammed the Democratic Alliance (DA), which governs the City, accusing it of hypocrisy. BOSA says the picket aims to draw attention to the proposed hikes, which it says will place an undue burden on residents. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to BOSA Spokesperson, Roger Solomon...

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng are marching to Kleinfontein today to protest against this Afrikaner-only settlement near Pretoria. The party views the settlement as "a remnant of apartheid's legacy". Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Gauteng Media and Communications Officer, Dumisani Baleni...

Police are searching for the owner of a Parkmore, Sandton property where 44 Ethiopian nationals 17 of them minors were rescued from shocking conditions. Believed to be victims of human trafficking, the group was discovered locked inside after security guards heard desperate screams. Gauteng police spokesperson Mavela Masondo says the individuals are now in safe hands, while investigations intensify into what appears to be a major trafficking operation. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mike Bolhuis, Specialist Investigator on serious violent, economic and cyber crimes...

The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has strongly criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to establish a new commission to investigate delays in prosecuting apartheid-era crimes. SAFTU labels the move as a wasteful and shameful attempt to probe the state's own failure to act on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) recommendations. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAFTU spokesperson, Newton Masuku...