First Take SA

Global and local partners are intensifying efforts to eliminate cervical cancer in South Africa. A high-level policy dialogue at the G20 Social Summit brought together government leaders, experts and NGOs to share best practices and strengthen collective action. Cervical cancer is one of the country's most pressing public health threats and the WHO has set a 2030 goal to eliminate the disease. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zwelethu Bashman, Managing Director at MSD South Africa

The Gauteng Liquor Traders Association is calling for urgent action to resolve the province's shebeen permit crisis. Thousands of township businesses and jobs are at risk due to delays and regulatory contradictions. Shebeen permits were meant to be a temporary measure to help informal traders enter the formal economy, but six years after a court order, the issue remains unresolved. Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng Liquor Traders Association (GLTA) Executive Committee Member, Jongikhaya Kraai

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

NUMSA, Women For Change alongside other women advocacy groups will today stage a national shutdown in protest against alarming levels of gender-based violence in South Africa. Demonstrations are planned in Gauteng, Freestate, Western Cape and other provinces. The shutdown, led by Women for Change, urges South Africans to show solidarity by changing their profile pictures to purple. Elvis Presslin spoke to Phakamile Hlubi-Majola, NUMSA National Spokesperson

The ANC Women's League has called on the government to declare GBV a national crisis and to implement stricter parole regulations for individuals convicted of gender-based violence and femicide. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Women's League, Secretary General, Nokuthula Nqaba

The Eastern Cape Liquor Board is urging learners to avoid so-called "Pens Down parties" planned for this week, citing concerns over safety and excessive drinking. Reports of gatherings in various parts of the province have been referred to law enforcement. Elvis Presslin spoke to Eastern Cape Liquor Board Spokesperson, Dr. Mgwebi Msiya

Operation Dudula will hold a peaceful protest in Johannesburg during the G20 Leaders' Summit this weekend to highlight concerns about unemployment, crime and access to services, which they blame on illegal immigration. The protest comes as South Africa hosts world leaders for the G20 Summit. Elvis Presslin spoke to Operation Dudula President, Zandile Dabula

The South African Youth Council in the Eastern Cape is celebrating a small victory after meeting with government officials. Over 2000 young people were struggling to get stipends for an internship programme but the council's efforts have led to some progress. The programme, funded by the Office of the Premier had been plagued by payment delays from the start. Elvis Presslin spoke to Provincial Spokesperson of the South African Youth Council, Madasa Sikhonza

The Democratic Alliance, DA will today picket outside Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's office to demand accountability for the Tembisa Hospital scandal. The party wants criminal charges laid against those implicated and seized assets sold to reimburse the hospital. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, Dr. Jack Bloom

The National Housing Finance Corporation has placed its Chief Executive Officer, Azola Mayekiso on precautionary suspension with immediate effect. The decision follows serious allegations of corruption against the CEO and parallel probes by public watchdogs. Elvis Presslin spoke to Satish Roopa, Chair of Human Capital Committee at the National Housing Finance Corporation

ANC MP Malusi Gigaba has stepped down from his official duties after being charged with corruption related to a multi-billion-rand Transnet tender. The ANC has welcomed the move, citing the party's "step aside" rule. The party states the move shows discipline, maturity and revolutionary consciousness. This week Gigaba appeared in court alongside four co-accused. The ANC has stressed that stepping aside doesn't imply guilt. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANCYL National Spokesperson, Zama Khanyase and Political Analyst, Dr. Levy Ndou....

The Congress of South African Students, COSAS in Gauteng has rolled out support programmes for matric pupils currently writing their final exams. The student led organisation is offering guidance to Grade 12 learners on managing exam pressure and stress as learners under pressure often battle anxiety and sleeplessness. Elvis Presslin spoke to Koketso Maphosa, COSAS Gauteng Acting Provincial Secretary

The Global Business Forum for G20 kicks off today, the summit will focus on recommendations from eight B20 Task Forces. The Business 20 serves as the official G20 dialogue forum with the global business community. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mr. Elias Monage, President of the Black Business Council

North West businessman Brown Mogotsi dropped a bombshell at the Madlanga Commission yesterday. Under oath, Mogotsi claimed KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini both have ties to the American Central Intelligence Agency, the CIA. Mogotsi told the commission the alleged links date back years and involve direct contact with US intelligence operatives. He offered no documents in open session but said evidence exists.Both Mkhwanazi and the royal household have previously dismissed similar claims as "baseless and malicious". Elvis Presslin spoke to Crime expert and Chief Executive Officer of IRS Forensic Investigations, Chad Thomas

A new study has revealled a deepening hunger crisis in South Africa. The study commissioned by FoodForward SA reveals how rising food prices and unemployment leave many households unable to afford adequate nutrition. FoodForward SA hopes to guide national food security strategies in the country based on the findings. Elvis Presslin spoke to Fund Development Manager at FoodForward SA, Mahbobah (Bobbie) Jacobs

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

A dispute over the Please Call Me invention payout is heating up, with Black Rock Mining claiming 40% of the reported R700 million from Vodacom. Inventor Nkosana Makate says Black Rock is owed nothing. Makate and his team have agreed to hold onto 40% of the payout, around R280 million, pending a court hearing in December. The remaining 60% is free to be disbursed. To look into the legal aspect of the matter Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Expert, Legal analyst, Reitumetse Benedict Phiri

The African Transformation Movement, ATM has slammed the Eastern Cape Department of Education for its failures of allegedly putting students at a disadvantage. The National Department of Basic Education has withheld R529.8 million in funding due to the province's inability to meet required standards. The party says the move comes as no surprise, given the dire state of schools in the Eastern Cape. The ATM says it's time for accountability and the province's education leadership needs to be held responsible for the crisis. Elvis Presslin spoke to ATM National Spokesperson, Zama Ntshona

Controversial Northwest businessman and alleged associate of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, Brown Mogotsi is testifying at the Madlanga Commission today and tomorrow. The Commission is investigating allegations of police corruption and is currently in its second phase, giving implicated individuals a chance to respond to allegations. Elvis Presslin spoke to Specialist Investigator, Mike Bolhuis

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will today deliver a keynote address at the G20 Social Summit's opening ceremony in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. The two-day summit aims to amplify the voices of civil society, grassroots organisations and communities, focusing on global issues affecting them. Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU National Spokesperson, Zanele Sabela

Activists and Citizens Forum has hailed Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as a hero for his courage in exposing corruption and infiltration in the criminal justice system. Activists and Citizens Forum Spokesperson, Dennis Bloem says Mkhwanazi's testimony before the Madlanga Commission has sparked a wave of hope for millions of South Africans who are facing trauma and intimidation in their workplaces. The Commission has heard shocking evidence from Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officials, revealing widespread corruption and violence. The officials allege that Ekurhuleni, EMPD Deputy Police Chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi is a law unto himself, with protection from senior political leaders. Here is the Spokesperson for Activists and Citizens Forum, Dennis Bloem

Residents of Schubart Park are gearing up for a crucial court battle against the City of Tshwane. The hearing, scheduled for today and tomorrow at the North Gauteng High Court, will determine the fate of hundreds of families facing eviction. The City claims to have met the requirements of a previous Constitutional Court ruling, which favoured the residents. However, residents argue this is a thinly veiled attempt to circumvent the court's decision and push them out of their homes. For more on this here is the Chairperson of Schubartpark Residence Committee, Ali Mashimbye

Heavy rainfall and flooding continue to grip parts of the country. This after the South African Weather Service issued a Level 9 warning for Gauteng and Mpumalanga for persistent adverse weather conditions. More downpours are expected today with possible localised flooding. Level 5 alerts remain for Free State, North West and KwaZulu-Natal. Motorists are urged to must steer clear of low-lying roads and bridges. For more on this we are joined on the line by South African Weather Service Forecaster, Lehlohonolo Thobela

The African Christian Democratic Party, ACDP is questioning the arrival of 153 Palestinian refugees in South Africa, citing potential breaches of immigration laws. The group arrived at OR Tambo International Airport last week with reports suggesting intervention by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola allowed them to enter the country. ACDP Deputy President, Wayne Thring says many Arab and African countries are closer to Gaza but they decided to come to South Africa which raise doubts about the motives. Mr.Thring

The South African Democratic Teachers' Union, SADTU, is condemning US President Donald Trump's claims that Afrikaners are victims of genocide in South Africa. The union calls these statements "false and inflammatory, saying they're an attempt to distort South Africa's democratic reality and sow racial division. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has also rejected Trump's claims, calling them a source of tension with the US, South Africa's second-largest trading partner. The controversy has led to the US boycotting the G20 summit in Johannesburg, which is set to take place later this month. Elvis Presslin spoke to SADTU Spokesperson, Nomusa Cembi

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

153 Palestinian travellers have been allowed into South Africa after being initially denied entry at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport. The group, who arrived on a charter flight from Kenya, were held at the airport due to incomplete documentation. But after intervention from the charity Gift of the Givers, they were admitted into the country. The travellers are eligible for 90-day visa-exempt travel and will be cared for by Gift of the Givers. The Border Management Authority says it will continue to uphold South Africa's legal and regulatory frameworks. Elvis Presslin spoke to Africa4Palestine Communications and Campaigns Manager, Alie Komape

Cape Town is experiencing a wave of gang-related violence, with over 30 people killed in just a few days. Residents are speaking out, saying Premier Alan Winde's government isn't doing enough to stop the bloodshed. The Western Cape has seen 63 children murdered between April and August, mostly due to gang violence. Winde recently released a report on alleged police infiltration by the 28s gang, but critics say it's too little, too late. The report found that a complaint of unacceptable conduct against top police officials was substantiated, raising concerns about possible infiltration of the police service by organised crime. Communities are demanding action, with some calling for a state of emergency. Elvis Presslin spoke to Heindrich Wyngaard, Cape Forum Executive Chairperson

Rise Mzansi will today picket outside the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition In Pretoria, calling on reforms to gambling laws. The party plans to hand over a memorandum and unveil a seven-point plan to overhaul gambling laws.The move follows figures showing South Africans wagered one-point-five trillion rand in the 2024/25 financial year. RISE Mzansi says the industry wrecks lives and livelihoods. Elvis Presslin spoke to Makashule Gana, Rise Mzansi Chief Organizer and National Assembly Caucus Whip

The Gauteng Health department is gearing up to mark World Diabetes Day today in Soweto. The event, being held in partnership with Novo Nordisk and the City of Johannesburg, aims to raise awareness about diabetes and the challenges people with the condition face, especially in the workplace. This year's campaign focuses on promoting healthier lifestyles and encouraging early screening to reduce the risk of complications like heart disease and kidney damage. Elvis Presslin spoke to Patrick Magodzho, Deputy Director of Non-Communicable Diseases at the Gauteng Department of Health

SAFTU General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi has slammed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement. Vavi says the budget reads straight from the DA's economic playbook and favours the wealthy and shoves the marginalised majority deeper into unemployment, poverty and inequality. Mr. Vavi spoke to Elvis Presslin to elaborate further on his sentiments.

October 2025 was one of the wettest months on record for South Africa, with some areas receiving over four times their average rainfall. This according to a recent report compiled by the South African Weather Service. The heavy rains have had a significant impact on agriculture, water management, and communities across the country, particularly in provinces like Limpopo, North West, Free State and Mpumalanga. Elvis Presslin spoke to Rudzani Malala, Senior Manager for Disaster Risk Reduction at the South African Weather Service

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to address the national Construction Summit in Boksburg today, where industry leaders and policymakers will discuss ways to boost infrastructure delivery. The summit comes at a critical time for the sector, with many projects facing delays and challenges. Elvis Presslin spoke to KZN Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Martin Meyer

Pastors from across the Western Cape are marching to Parliament today, to voice their opposition to proposed regulations on churches. The move follows the CRL Commission's call for greater oversight of religious organisations. The commission recently introduced a peer-review mechanism aimed at promoting accountability and curbing abuse within churches. But critics say this amounts to government interference. The pastors are also calling for the removal of CRL Commission chairperson Thoko Xaluva, accusing her of censoring churches. Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Church Defenders Coordinator, Pastor Theo Nobongoza

Education activist, Hendrick Makaneta is calling on the government to stop schools from charging parents when learners repeat grades. Makaneta says the practice is unfair and puts a strain on families who are already struggling to make ends meet. Makaneta argues that education is a basic human right and should be accessible to all, regardless of income. Elvis Presslin spoke to Education Activist, Hendrick Makaneta

The Federation of Unions of South Africa, FEDUSA says the latest budget prioritizes fiscal discipline over social justice, hurting the working class and poor. FEDUSA welcomes some infrastructure investments but warns reforms must protect jobs and workers' rights. The federation wants a pro-growth, pro-worker budget that provides job security and relief for households. Elvis Presslin spoke to FEDUSA General Secretary, Riefdah Ajam

South Africa's education system is facing a crisis. Many young learners are struggling with basic reading skills and fewer schools are offering pure mathematics according to Milpark Education. The private higher education institution says this is limiting their future opportunities and deepening inequality. Raun Billet, Chartered Accountant and Executive at Milpark Education spoke to Elvis Presslin

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is set to table the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement for the 2025 financial season today. The statement will provide an update on the country's economic and fiscal performance and outline the government's economic and fiscal policy. The announcement comes at a time of uncertainty and skepticism among South Africans, with many concerned about the country's economic prospects. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA Member of Parliament, Alan Beesley and ANC MP & Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Finance, Dr. Joe Maswanganyi

Political parties in Ekurhuleni are welcoming the suspension of Deputy Police Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, amid allegations of corruption and misconduct. The DA and ActionSA are among those hailing the move saying it's a step towards accountability and clean governance. Mkhwanazi was suspended following testimony at the Madlanga Commission, which revealed alleged wrongdoing within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Ekurhuleni Regional Secretary, Jongizizwe Dlabathi

South Africa's Beitbridge Port of Entry has been warned that corruption will not be tolerated, as part of a government crackdown. The Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum has launched an awareness campaign, featuring convicted offenders sharing their stories. One offender, serving 15 years, said prison was "very painful" and advised officials to stop corrupt activities. Elvis Presslin spoke to Border Management Authority Spokesperson, Mmemme Mogotsi

Seventeen South African men are reportedly trapped on the freezing frontlines in Ukraine after allegedly being sent to Russia by former President Jacob Zuma's MK Party for bodyguard training. The men, who were told they would receive training to become party bodyguards, ended up in a trench on the frontlines in Ukraine after just three weeks of training. Elvis Presslin spoke to Chris Hattingh, DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans

Parliament's ad hoc committee is likely to travel to the Kgosi Mampuru C-max Prison to hear testimony from remanded detainee, Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala. The committee was established after KZN Police commissioner, Lt-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi's allegations of criminal infiltration, corruption and political interference in the justice system. Among others, Mkhwanazi alleged that the now placed on special leave Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu associated with individuals suspected to have links with drug cartels, such as Matlala. Matlala, who is facing charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder and money laundering, is being held in the Kgosi Mampuru C-Max prison. The committee met to discuss a draft report that will be presented to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, that informs a request for a second extension. The committee, investigating claims of criminal infiltration and corruption within South Africa's justice system, will visit the prison from the 26th to the 28th of November this month, to hear Matlala's testimony. Matlala, facing charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder and money laundering is expected to provide crucial evidence. For legal analysis on the matter Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal analyst, Melusi Xulu

The City of Johannesburg has removed a Solidarity billboard along the M1 highway due to its alleged anti-transformation agenda. The banner, part of Solidarity's "Race to the Bottom" campaign claimed South Africa is the world's most race-regulated nation, citing 145 laws including Black Economic Empowerment. The union has launched a documentary and handed memorandums to G20 embassies ahead of the summit in Johannesburg next week. Solidarity says it will fight the decision in court.The controversy follows US President Donald Trump's announcement boycotting the G20, claiming white South Africans face persecution. Elvis Presslin spoke to Connie Mulder, Head of the Solidarity Research Institute

Africa is set to take a major step towards achieving health sovereignty as leaders gather in Mombasa, Kenya, for the 7th Scientific Conference on Medical Products Regulation in Africa. The conference, running from today until Thursday, will bring together policymakers, regulators, scientists and industry leaders to discuss regulatory harmonisation and its impact on health product manufacturing and trade. The event aims to boost Africa's ability to produce safe and quality-assured medicines and vaccines, reducing reliance on imports. Currently, over 90% of medicines are imported and less than 1% of vaccines are produced locally. Elvis Presslin spoke to Alex Juma, Programme Officer, at the African Medicines Regulatory Harmonisation Programme, AUDA-NEPAD

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 says human trafficking has become a national crisis in South Africa, with thousands of lives destroyed through sexual exploitation, forced labour and debt bondage. The party says the country's severe unemployment rate has created a recruitment tool for traffickers, who prey on desperate individuals seeking income or work abroad. Recent reports have exposed the scale of this crisis, with cases of human trafficking discovered in Johannesburg, Durban, and other parts of the country. Traffickers are using social media to lure victims with false promises of lucrative jobs, only to exploit them for sex or forced labour. Elvis Presslin spoke to Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement, Zandile Phiri

The Gauteng Provincial Government has condemned the vandalism of G20 signage and revamped infrastructure in Johannesburg. The government describes the acts as a "deliberate and malicious campaign of sabotage" aimed at undermining the country's image ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit. Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng Government Spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga

The Congress of the People, COPE has condemned US President Donald Trump's baseless attacks on South Africa and its G20 presidency. Trump's decision to boycott the G20 summit, citing alleged human rights abuses against Afrikaners, has been widely criticised as unfounded and ignorant. South Africa's government has rejected Trump's claims saying it's committed to democracy, peace and multilateralism. Elvis Presslin spoke to COPE Acting National Chairperson, Pakes Dikgetsi

The Jacob G. Zuma Foundation is up in arms over the trial of former President Jacob Zuma's daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla saying it's a clear case of state persecution. Zuma-Sambudla is facing trial in the Durban High Court today for allegedly inciting terrorism and public violence related to the 2021 July Unrest. The Foundation says her trial is baseless and politically motivated to settle political scores against the Zuma family. Elvis Presslin spoke to Foundation spokesperson Mr. Mzwanele Manyi

Zimbabwean opposition politician Job Sikhala is appearing in a Pretoria court today following his arrest for possession of commercial explosives. Sikhala, a vocal critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa will be joined in court by his uncle. His arrest comes less than a year after his release from prison in Zimbabwe, where he was held for allegedly inciting public violence. Rights groups and opposition figures claim the Zimbabwean government is targeting Sikhala for his criticism of the ruling party ZANU PF. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zanu PF Spokesperson, Farai Marapira

Police Minister Firoz Cachalia is set to visit Reigerpark and Westbury today as part of efforts to tackle gang-related crimes in Gauteng. The visit follows recent deadly shootings in both areas, two teenagers killed in Westbury and six people in a Reiger Park drive-by shooting. Cachalia aims to hear from locals and police on how to curb the gang violence. Elvis Presslin spoke to Melissa Davids, Westbury Community leader and Member of the Patriotic Alliance