First Take SA

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has announced that Ithala Bank depositors will finally be able to access their funds before Christmas, bringing relief to over 250,000 customers who have been unable to withdraw their money since 2023. The National Treasury has released a R2.2 billion guarantee, paving the way for depositors to regain access to their money. Premier Ntuli apologized to those affected by the bank's issues and promised that the government would ensure such disruptions don't happen again. Elvis Presslin spoke to KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli

The South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO has launched its Hlokomela Festive Season campaign, aiming to ensure a safe and secure travel experience for commuters during the holiday season. The campaign, which started in November, will run until January next year. The campaign includes roadworthiness checks, safety awareness activations, and engagements with Hlokomela Champions across nine provinces. Elvis Presslin spoke to SANTACO National Spokesperson, Mmatshikhidi Rebecca Phala

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

Parliament has unanimously adopted a motion to establish a comprehensive inquiry into the violent crime crisis in Cape Town. The Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF party initiated the motion, citing evidence of rampant gang violence, mass shootings and policing failures in the region. The inquiry will be led by the Portfolio Committee on Police, in collaboration with other security cluster committees. Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Member of Parliament, Natasha Ntlangwini, whose motion initiated this probe

A proposed 20% online gambling tax has sparked concerns it will drive gamblers to illegal operators and undermine consumer protection. The tax, part of National Treasury's plans, is being criticized for its potential impact on the industry and job losses. Garron Whitesman, a leading expert in gambling law, told our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri that the proposal is "constitutionally unacceptable" and fails to recognize jurisdictional boundaries, which will lead to business closures and job losses...

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned a disinformation campaign affecting South Africa's relations with the US. Addressing the nation last night, Ramaphosa said the US administration's stance has been influenced by false information spread by groups and individuals in South Africa and abroad. He warns this is harming the country's interests, costing jobs and damaging ties with a key partner. ActionSA Parliamentary Caucus Leader, Athol Trollip...

Police have arrested another suspect in connection with allegations that several South Africans were recruited to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war. The suspect is due to appear in court in Kempton Park today, along with four others facing similar charges. The Hawks' Crimes Against the State unit is investigating the case. For more we're now joined by Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale...

The ANC Youth League has slammed reports claiming moves are underway to recall President Cyril Ramaphosa. The League says the claims are an attempt to create instability ahead of the ANC's National General Council. ANCYL National Spokesperson, Zama Khanyase joined us on the line

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned a disinformation campaign affecting South Africa's relations with the US. Addressing the nation last night, Ramaphosa said the US administration's stance has been influenced by false information spread by groups and individuals in South Africa and abroad. He warns this is harming the country's interests, costing jobs and damaging ties with a key partner. For reaction to the President's speech, here is Afriforum CEO, Kallie Kriel

South Africa has hit back at US President Donald Trump's decision to bar the country from the 2026 G20 Summit in Miami. President Cyril Ramaphosa described Trump's comments as "regrettable" and based on "misinformation". The controversy stems from South Africa hosting the G20 Summit in Johannesburg earlier this year, which was hailed as a success. The US boycotted the event, citing alleged human rights abuses against white farmers in South Africa, a claim Pretoria denies. For more we're joined by Supra Mahumapelo, Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation

A damning report by the South African Human Rights Commission has revealed systemic racial discrimination in the allocation of state-owned land in Hartbeespoort, North West province. The investigation found that black applicants were consistently sidelined for over a decade, with only one black male granted a lease out of 78 applications. The report states that white occupants retained and even expanded their access to prime land, violating black applicants' rights to equality and dignity. Commissioner of the South African Human Rights in the North West, Professor Tshepo Madlingozi has more

National Coloured Congress MP Fadiel Adams has laid criminal charges of fraud and corruption against former Police Minister Bheki Cele and KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The charges follow allegations by Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, who claims he paid Cele R500,000 to recover seized firearms. Matlala also alleges a meeting was arranged between Cele and Mkhwanazi, where Mkhwanazi threatened him over a SAPS contract. The Ad Hoc Committee is probing these claims, with demands for evidence including CCTV footage and message. Here is the National Coloured Congress leader, Fadiel Adams

The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, AARTO Act is set to be implemented in July next year, but concerns have been raised about its enforcement on foreign nationals driving in South Africa. The AARTO system focuses on individual driver behaviour and aims to improve road safety through a demerit points system. However, one of our listeners raised questions about how foreign truck drivers with foreign licenses will be affected. For more on this we are joined on the line by Spokesperson for the Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA), Monde Mkalipi...

Global research released during Responsible Gambling Awareness Month shows online betting operators are relying more heavily on technology to protect vulnerable players. The study by gaming software firm SOFTSWISS identifies three key trends now reaching South Africa's booming online gambling sector. Artificial intelligence systems are being used to detect harmful betting patterns in real time, reducing the risk of human error. Elvis Presslin spoke to Miranda Guliashvili, Head of Regional Growth at SOFTSWISS

Alleged cartel member Vusimuzi Matlala has revealed details of his dealings with former Police Minister Bheki Cele, telling Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee that Cele received money and favours from him. Matlala says Cele's wife was also involved and they've attended social events together. The revelations are part of an investigation into national security concerns. Elvis Presslin spoke to Crime expert and Chief Executive Officer of IRS Forensic Investigations, Chad Thomas

The Democratic Alliance, DA will lay criminal charges against MK Party MP Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla for allegedly recruiting South Africans to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war. 17 citizens are reportedly trapped in Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. The party alleges Zuma-Sambudla played a role in luring the men to fight and is calling for a police investigation and potential prosecution. Elvis Presslin spoke to Chris Hattingh, DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans

Gauteng High Court judge Portia Phahlane and the leader of the Jerusalem faction of the International Pentecost Holiness Church, Michael Sandlana appeared in court yesterday on charges of corruption and money laundering. Prosecutors allege Sandlana paid millions of rands in bribes to Judge Phahlane while she was hearing the church's bitter leadership succession dispute. Both accused were released on bail of one hundred thousand rand each. The case is postponed to February. The Judicial Service Commission has confirmed Judge Phahlane has been placed on special leave. For more on this Oscar Mathafa, MP and ANC Whip in the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development spoke to Elvis Presslin

The City of Johannesburg has launched a new Debt Relief Programme to help residents and businesses who are battling to pay their municipal bills. Under the plan, struggling ratepayers can settle outstanding water, lights and rates accounts with big discounts and some debts will be written off completely if certain conditions are met. Elvis Presslin spoke to the city of Joburg MMC for Finance, Loyiso Masuku

The Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation, CSVR has strongly condemned the kidnapping of 315 schoolgirls and female teachers from St Mary's Catholic School in north-central Nigeria. Gunmen stormed the school over the weekend and took the girls and staff away. No group has claimed responsibility yet. The CSVR says this is another brutal attack on the safety and dignity of women and girls in Nigeria and wants urgent regional action to stop the violence. Gugu Nonjinge , Advocacy Specialist Centre at the Study of Violence and Reconciliation Advocacy spoke to Elvis Presslin

A national campaign has been launched to combat gender-based violence in South Africa, coinciding with the 16 Days of Activism against women and children. The One Million Voices Campaign Against GBV is distributing a book titled "Understanding & Combatting Gender-Based Violence: A Call to Ubuntu and Action" by Gender activisit and UNISA Professor Motsamai Molefe, which explores the roots of violence and offers a framework for addressing GBV based on Ubuntu and dignity. The campaign aims to distribute one million copies of the book and promote community-led initiatives to challenge harmful norms and promote equality and safety. For more Professor Motsamai Molefe spoke to Elvis Presslin

Murder-accused businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala will testify before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating police corruption following an earlier request to postpone the proceedings. Matlala had requested a postponement citing poor prison conditions and concerns over his health. Matlala is now expected to take the stand at 11 O'clock this morning. Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Prisoners Organisation for Human Rights, SAPOHR President and Prison rights activist, Golden Miles Bhudu

Former Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Chief David Tembe has died aged 71. He was found unresponsive at his home in Johannesburg and the cause of death is not yet known. Elvis Presslin spoke to his daughter, Tokiso Molefe

ActionSA is demanding the prosecution of former Road Accident Fund, RAF CEO Collins Letsoalo after he refused to testify before Parliament about financial mismanagement at the Fund. Letsoalo is accused of ignoring a summons to answer questions about the fund's R400 billion debt and allegations of misuse of funds. The opposition party says Letsoalo's decision is a direct challenge to Parliament's authority. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA Member of Parliament, Alan Beesley

Civil society groups in South Africa have launched a high court application to force authorities to stop what they call xenophobic vigilantes blocking access to healthcare facilities in Gauteng. The groups, including Médecins Sans Frontières and the Treatment Action Campaign, say patients are being turned away from clinics due to their nationality or lack of identity documents. They're calling for the authorities to ensure safe access to healthcare and remove anyone obstructing medical services. The organisations accuse the state of failing to uphold the Constitution and protect the right to healthcare. Elvis Presslin spoke to Director of Advocacy and Analysis at Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Claire Waterhouse

A new report warns that South Africa is at risk of missing out on a multi-billion-dollar economic opportunity unless it expands its offshore oil and gas industry. The report highlights discoveries off the southern coast, including TotalEnergies' Brulpadda and Luiperd fields and argues that the Orange Basin geology could transform South Africa's economy. The report projects that a single development could contribute 23 billion rand annually to GDP and support 20,000 jobs. Elvis Presslin spoke to EnerGeo Alliance Global Policy Senior Director, Dr. Ross Compton, who is in the UK

Detained businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala is set to testify before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee today. The committee will also hear evidence from two senior police officials, SAPS CFO Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane and Deputy National Commissioner for Policing Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili. Elvis Presslin spoke to Security Strategist and retired Interpol Ambassador, Andy Mashaile

The Democratic Alliance, DA has launched an investigation into a public feud between party leader John Steenhuisen and federal finance chairperson Dion George. The party's federal executive meeting on Sunday decided to probe the matter, with a gag order reportedly issued to prevent further public comment. The row follows reports that George lost his ministerial post after refusing a demotion to deputy minister, allegedly due to concerns over his performance and behaviour. Elvis Presslin spoke to Tsepo Mhlongo, former DA MP and Councillor

The Department of Basic Education has launched new Grade 4 assessments designed to improve foundational learning. The assessments are aligned with the Mother Tongue-Based Bilingual Education Framework and will be conducted in both home languages and English. This dual-language approach is expected to provide a clearer picture of learner progress and help educators target support more effectively. Elvis Presslin spoke to Education activist, Hendrick Makaneta for his reaction to the initiative

The National Prosecuting Authority's Men Ambassadors are hosting a silent picket in Pretoria today to mark the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign. Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Anton du Plessis will deliver a keynote address at the event, which aims to show the NPA's commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Mkhuseli Jokani, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions in the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs (SOCA)

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

Parliament has exposed a chaotic licensing system that leaves South African spaza owners struggling while foreign-owned shops benefit from lax enforcement. MPs revealed that locals face confiscations and red tape, yet foreign traders receive most approved licenses. The Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development has heard that the Spaza Shop Support Fund has barely reached applicants, blocked by the very licensing failures the government hasn't fixed. Members, including Hendrik Krüger, warned that proposed transformation funds risk becoming bloated bureaucracies instead of empowering South Africans. Hendrik Krüger Member of the parliament's Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development spoke to Elvis Presslin

Parliament's standing committee on appropriations has written to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, seeking clarity on the costs of hosting this weekend's G20 Leaders Summit. Committee chair Dr. Mmusi Maimane says the committee wants to ensure public funds were managed prudently, as hosting the summit served as an opportunity for South Africa to showcase itself to the world. Dr. Maimane spoke to Elvis Presslin

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has welcomed the decision to classify Gender-Based Violence and Femicide as a national disaster. The National Disaster Management Centre concluded that GBV meets the threshold of a potential disaster, citing persistent and immediate life-safety risks. The classification calls on all government departments to strengthen support for existing response structures and implement contingency arrangements to manage the disaster. For the latest Minister Hlabisa spoke to Elvis Presslin

The South African Police Service has confirmed that Ms Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma - Mncube has opened a criminal case at the Sandton police station against Ms Duduzile Zuma, Ms Siphokasi Xuma and Mr Blessing Khosa. The case is in relation to seventeen South African men who are allegedly trapped in the Ukraine/Russian War. Ms Mncube claims the men were lured to Russia under false pretences and handed to a Russian mercenary group to fight in the Ukrainian war without their knowledge or consent. Elvis Presslin spoke to a brother of one of the men stuck in the Ukraine-Russia war, Sandile Ndhlovu

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) says it congratulates the Republic of South Africa for hosting exceptionally well, the historic G20 Summit in Johannesburg. The youth league says the Summit is groundbreaking, not only because it was held on African soil under South Africa's capable leadership, but also because it has remained steadfast and focused despite deliberate attempts by US President Donald Trump to delegitimise it. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANCYL National Spokesperson, Zama Khanyase

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