First Take SA

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

Organisations from Eswatini, including SWAYOCO and PUDEMO will today march to the US Embassy in Pretoria. They are protesting reports of a 500 million US dollars deal between King Mswati the Third and the United States to house convicted US criminals in Swaziland. The groups say the deal treats Swaziland like a "dumping site" and violates the country's sovereignty. Elvis Presslin spoke to Nhlanhla Magongo, Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO) Regional Secretary

The skills development community and retail sector will today gather in Sandton, Johannesburg, to celebrate 25 years of Sector Education and Training Authorities, SETAs. The 25th anniversary comes against a backdrop of challenges facing several SETAs, with questions raised about their performance and impact on human capital development. In the same breath, new Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela is expected to face parliamentary scrutiny over his decision to place SETAs under administration. The 25 year anniversary will see Wholesale and Retail SETA CEO leading the ceremony, alongside leaders from other SETAs, academia, industry and TVET graduates. For more on this milestone and the future of skills development in South Africa, Elvis Presslin spoke to Wholesale and Retail SETA CEO, Tom Mkhwanazi

KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has implicated two MPs in wrongdoing during his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into criminality and corruption in the justice system. He accused National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams of accessing and misusing classified intelligence without authorisation, bypassing proper parliamentary channels to make unverified claims that led to an arrest in crime intelligence. Mkhwanazi also accused DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard with abusing her role by publicly disclosing secrets, inciting attacks on the unit and flouting oversight rules over a controversial R22 million Durban property deal. Both deny the allegations. The Commission resumes today at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA MP, Dianne Kohler Barnard

ActionSA says a new book by Investigative Journalists Pauli van Wyk and Micah Reddy is a compromised work pursuing a political agenda against party leader Herman Mashaba. The party claims the book distorts facts and fairness, alleging Mashaba ignored wrongdoing by the EFF in Johannesburg when he was mayor. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS, has announced new funding measures to tackle a major shortfall for the 2025 academic year. NSFAS and the Department of Higher Education and Training will now support 34,000 students with blocked registrations and 15,000 second-semester registrations by reallocating R13.3 billion from its existing budget. Elvis Presslin spoke to NSFAS Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi

A legal battle has erupted over the late Deputy President David Mabuza's R44.7 million pension payout. Tamara Silinda, Mabuza's daughter, has filed a high court application to block the full amount from being paid to Mabuza's widow, Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi. Silinda is claiming a portion of the funds for her living and education expenses. She argues her mother was also married to Mabuza under customary law. Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal analyst, Clarisa Vermaak

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng will stage a picket today outside the Levai Mbatha Clinic in Emfuleni to protest against alleged cadre deployment and nepotism. The DA claims that ward councillor and Emfuleni Speaker, Sibongile Soxuza, hired her husband, son and individuals with ties to ANC officials for a clinic pavement construction tender and sidelined local jobseekers. The DA is demanding transparency and fairness in the tender process. Elvis Presslin spoke to Kingsol Chabalala, DA Emfuleni North Constituency Head

South African Police Service national spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says an AK-47 assault rifle and two other firearms, seized in connection with controversial businessmen Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala and Katiso 'KT' Molefe, have been linked to 18 murder and attempted murder cases, as well as other serious crimes. Elvis Presslin spoke to National Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe

The Madlanga Commission, investigating alleged infiltration of South Africa's Criminal Justice System by organized crime syndicates, will today continue to hear further testimony from KZN Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Mkhwanazi, who yesterday warned of a potential collapse of the system and reiterated the urgent need for intervention to prevent a breakdown. The Commission continues to probe systemic vulnerabilities as concerns mount over the integrity of law enforcement. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mbekezeli Benjamin, Researcher and Advocacy officer at Judges Matter

The Madlanga Commission, investigating criminality, political interference, and corruption in South Africa's justice system, starts its work today after multiple delays. Led by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the inquiry was prompted by claims from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He alleged that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu disbanded the Political Killings Task Team without consultation and transferred 121 active cases to Deputy Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya's office, where they were reportedly stalled. Meanwhile, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party has demanded the commission's suspension pending a Pretoria High Court ruling on its legality. Elvis Presslin spoke to MK Party Spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape has expressed concern over the provincial government's decision to close several taxi routes. As of today, several taxi routes will be closed for 30 days due to ongoing violence and instability in the public transport sector. SANTACO has expressed concern over the impact on taxi operators' livelihoods and related businesses but acknowledged the measure's intent to safeguard lives. Elvis Presslin spoke to Western Cape MEC for Transport, Isaac Sileku

The Democratic Alliance, DA will today hold a press conference to address rising concerns about the cost of living and doing business in the City of Tshwane. The DA claims the City has failed to deliver on promises to attract investment, pointing to an unlawful cleansing levy and alleged contempt of court. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA National Director for Communications and Parliamentary Operations, Matthew George

Vote counting is under way across Malawi after yesterday's presidential, parliamentary and local council elections drew millions to the polls. Incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera is bidding for a second term, but he's up against stiff opposition from his predecessor, Peter Mutharika. Seventeen candidates altogether took part, with former president Joyce Banda among them, though most observers expect the outcome to hinge on the matchup between Chakwera and Mutharika. The Malawi Electoral Commission has until next week Wednesday to release the presidential tally. If nobody tops 50 percent, a runoff will follow within 30 days. Elvis Presslin spoke to our SABC Correspondent, George Mhango

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

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that municipalities led by the Democratic Alliance are better managed than those under ANC control. Speaking to party councillors at the FNB Stadium in Soweto, Ramaphosa unveiled the ANC's Service Delivery Action Plan ahead of next year's municipal elections. The six-pillar plan aims to address widespread service delivery challenges in local government. Ramaphosa called on the ANC to take lessons from the DA's governance. Senior politics reporter, Ntebo Mokobo filed this report and Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC veteran and political analyst, Omry Makgoale for his analysis on Ramaphosa's sentiments

Malawians head to the polls today in an election pitting President Lazarus Chakwera against his predecessor Peter Mutharika. Another 15 candidates including former president Joyce Banda are also contesting the presidency, but analysts expect a two-horse race between 70-year-old Chakwera and 85-year-old Mutharika. If no one secures over 50 percent of the vote there will be a second round. Channel Africa reporter, Michael Mbewe is in Malawi and he spoke to Elvis Presslin

Business Unity South Africa, BUSA has slammed Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau for withdrawing draft regulations to the National Credit Act. The proposed changes aimed to simplify credit access for small businesses but were scrapped after public backlash. Over 20,000 submissions opposed clauses that would have allowed educational institutions to report unpaid tuition fees to credit bureaus. Busa CEO Khulekani Mathe accused the minister of mishandling the policymaking process and yielding to political pressure, warning that the withdrawal will delay critical support for SMEs. Elvis Presslin spoke to BUSA CEO, Khulekani Mathe

COSATU has welcomed the tabling of the Liquor Amendment Bill in Parliament.The Bill seeks to ban the advertisement, promotion, and product placement of alcohol across all media forms. The bill also calls for the state to actively counter the normalization of alcohol use and curb alcohol-related harm by reducing the visibility and consumption of liquor.The Bill was tabled by EFF Member of Parliament (MP) and party National Assembly Whip Veronica Mente-Nkuna earlier this month. COSATU National Spokesperson Zanele Sabela believes that road fatalities and domestic violence incidents are linked to excessive consumption of alcohol. Elvis Presslin spoke to Lucky Ntimane, National Liquor Traders Council spokesperson

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng will today launch its infrastructure campaign in efforts to resolve the province's crumbling roads, cable theft, and vandalism of substations that frequently leave residents without water and electricity. The campaign kicks off at the incomplete Modderfontein bridge, a project stalled since 2021, causing severe traffic congestion. The Johannesburg Roads Agency paid a contractor in full for 50% of the work before terminating their contract. A new contractor has now been appointed to finish the repairs. Elvis Presslin spoke to Member of Provincial Legislature and DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Infrastructure, Nico De Jager

With elections just over a year away, ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged party members to ensure that their selection process for councillors in the 2026 local polls produce impeccable and capable public representatives. He was speaking at the opening of their Special NEC underway in Boksburg east of Johannesburg. The two day meeting was called to discuss the state of local government with a Roll Call meeting of the ANC's over 6000 councillors and mayors planned for Monday at the FNB stadium. This weekend's discussions are centered around improving the local sphere of government and ensuring that it positively impacts the people it is meant to serve. Our Political Correspondent Ntebo Mokobo has more and Elvis Presslin spoke to Political analyst Dr. Metjie Makgoba

Nearly 3,000 South African soldiers deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo are threatening legal action against the Department of Defence over unpaid fees. The South African National Defence Union, SANDU says it will take the matter to court if the outstanding payments are not settled. Elvis Presslin spoke to SA National Defence Union Chief Negotiator, Jeff Dubazana

A wave of violence has struck the Kraaifontein Wallacedene community in Cape Town, leaving residents gripped by fear. In the early hours of Sunday, three people were shot dead and another stabbed to death in three separate incidents. One person was injured. This follows a deadly week, with a total of 14 killings reported in the area. Police are investigating the incidents but have yet to make arrests. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Llewellyn MacMaster, Chairperson of the Cape Crime Crisis Coalition

The ANC Youth League has strongly rejected claims of internal factionalism and leadership battles ahead of the 2027 succession. The ANC Youth League have called the media report and claims of internal factionalism and leadership battles as 'bought journalism' and a fabrication aimed at tarnishing its reputation. The League clarified that its recent National General Council focused on preparing for the upcoming Local Government Elections and not succession debates. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANCYL National Spokesperson, Zama Khanyase

The Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF have tabled a private member's bill in Parliament to amend the Electoral Act of 1998. The proposed legislation aims to automatically register all South African citizens on the national voters' roll at age 16, using data from the national population register. Under the bill, the Independent Electoral Commission would notify citizens of their registration and require them to confirm or update their place of residence before casting their first vote. Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Member of Parliament, Mazwi Blose

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 Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF say the government's decision to pull back proposed changes to the National Credit Act came straight from weeks of public pushback. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has withdrawn the amendment regulations amid widespread criticism that they would hit low-income families and young people hardest with tighter credit rules. The Act would have allowed educational institutions to submit students' credit information to credit bureaus. Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF MP, Sihle Lonzi

The Constitutional Court has cleared the way for husbands to take their wives' surnames upon marriage, in a recent landmark ruling. The verdict strikes down key sections of the Births and Deaths Registration Act as unconstitutional saying they unfairly discriminated against men by denying them the same automatic name-change rights long given to women. The case was brought by two couples: Henry van der Merwe, who wanted to adopt his wife Jana Jordaan's surname and Andreas Nicolas Bornman, who sought to hyphenate his with his wife Jess Donnelly-Bornman's. Elvis Presslin spoke to Cultural expert and UJ lecturer, Professor Gugu Mazibuko

The Public Servants Association, PSA will today embark on an industrial action over a long-running dispute with the Department of Military Veterans. At the heart of the standoff is an unresolved demand for talks on the department's organisational structure review. The Union says it has exhausted all channels for negotiation. Elvis Presslin spoke to PSA Chief Negotiator at the Department of Military Veterans, Zamani Dladla

The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the gunman who killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The 31-year-old Turning Point USA co-founder was shot in the neck while speaking at a campus debate at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, yesterday. The single shot, fired from a nearby rooftop, sparked panic as thousands of attendees fled the scene. Utah Governor Spencer Cox called the attack a "political assassination." The suspect remains at large, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. To discuss this tragedy, Elvis Presslin spoke to Joel Pollak, U.S. political commentator and Senior Editor-at-Large at Breitbart News

Not In My Name International has raised concerns over a growing perception that the South African Human Rights Commission, or SAHRC, prioritizes the rights of foreign nationals over South African citizens. The organization says human rights are universal but is urging the Commission to address the urgent struggles of locals with equal attention. Elvis Presslin spoke to President of Not In My Name International, Siyabulela Jentile

The National Prosecuting Authority, NPA will reopen the inquest into the death of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko on Friday, marking 48 years since he died in police custody. Biko, the 30-year-old founder of the Black Consciousness Movement, was arrested in Port Elizabeth in August 1977 and beaten during interrogation. He suffered severe head injuries and was driven more than 1,000 kilometres to Pretoria without medical help. Official records list his cause of death as brain damage leading to kidney failure. A 1977 inquest cleared police of blame, ruling the death inconclusive. But years later, officers admitted assaults during Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings, though they were denied amnesty for lying and lacking a political motive. No one has faced prosecution to date. Elvis Presslin spoke to Jabu Rakwena, AZAPO Secretary for Legal and Constitutional Affairs

Protests over chronic water shortages in Johannesburg's Westbury and Coronationville areas turned violent yesterday, leaving one elderly man dead and several others injured. Residents blocked roads with burning tyres and debris, demanding reliable water after nearly a week without taps running. Johannesburg Water says the outages stem from ongoing maintenance, but locals say tanker deliveries aren't enough, especially for the elderly. Protesters vow to keep up the action until officials step in. Elvis Presslin spoke to WaterCAN Executive Manager, Dr. Ferrial Adam...

Today marks three years since the devastating Jagersfontein tailings dam failure in the Free State. On the 11th of September 2022, the dam collapse flooded homes in Charlesville and Skoti, causing widespread damage. In related news, 26 victims of the disaster, along with the Kopanong Local Municipality, have launched a civil lawsuit against Jagersfontein Developments mine, seeking over three billion rand in damages. Elvis Presslin spoke to Jagersfontein Lerumo Justice Forum Chairperson, Thabo Choledi

Civil rights organisation Action Society has raised concerned about the wave of violence targeting South Africa's justice system. The organisation has condemned the attacks on courts and legal professionals as a direct threat to the rule of law. This month a man awaiting a bail hearing was fatally shot at Athlone Magistrate's Court in a suspected gang-related hit, two others were wounded. Police believe the accused may have been targeted to prevent him from turning state witness. Elvis Presslin spoke to Action Society Spokesperson, Juanita du Preez

The Pretoria High Court has dismissed an application by Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya to challenge his placement on leave. The court ordered Sibiya to pay legal costs. The decision follows his suspension in July amid allegations of misconduct raised by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Sibiya sought to have the leave order declared unlawful and to be reinstated, but the court upheld National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola's decision. To look into the legal aspect of the matter Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Analyst, Advocate Modidima Mannya

Police in Tshwane are working to resolve a tense hostage situation in Mamelodi East's Buffer Zone. A 32-year-old police constable has been holding his grandmother, nephew, and another young boy inside a house since 8 AM yesterday. Authorities report the officer fired two shots before police arrived. Hostage negotiators and the Special Task Force are on the scene, engaging with the constable, who is said to be cooperating. The motive remains under investigation and the scene is still active. For the latest, Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter Phanuel Shuma...

Hamas says its leadership survived an Israeli airstrike in Doha, Qatar, but confirms six people were killed, including a Qatari security officer. Qatar, a key mediator in Israel-Hamas talks, condemned the strike as a "blatant violation" of international law. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared there would be "no immunity" for Hamas leaders, stating the attack was a response to recent violence in Jerusalem. Elvis Presslin spoke to Ugandan born Lawyer, investigative journalist and conflict resolution expert, Doctor David Matsanga

September marks National Wills Month, shining a spotlight on one of the most overlooked aspects of financial planning. From 15 to 19 September, the Law Society of South Africa hosts Wills Week, urging citizens to draft valid wills. With over 85% of South Africans dying intestate, families face delays, disputes, and financial strain. Experts stress that a will is not just for the wealthy, it's a simple act of care and protection. Elvis Presslin spoke to Yvonne Mojela, Fiduciary Specialist at Glu, a division of Professional Provident Society Insurance Company

The South African government is facing sharp criticism after representatives of the sanctioned M23 rebel group attended a peace and security dialogue in Magaliesburg, Gauteng, without proper vetting. The Thabo Mbeki Foundation hosted the event, which aimed to address conflicts across Africa. The presence of M23, just months after 14 South African soldiers were killed in clashes with the group in Goma, has sparked outrage. International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola insists the government was unaware of M23's attendance, stating his department did not review the guest list. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, who led the rebel delegation, defended their participation, calling it a step toward peace, and criticized the Democratic Republic of Congo for boycotting the talks. Elvis Presslin spoke to M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka

Today is the second day of the Africa Climate Summit in Ethiopia, over 60 children from 14 African countries are urging leaders to put their voices at the heart of climate policies. UNICEF warns that 51 million children across the continent face hunger, displacement, and climate shocks. The summit aim to accelerate climate solutions in response to the worsening impacts of climate change on African economies. Elvis Presslin spoke to Gugu Xaba CEO Save the children South Africa as she joins us from Addis Ababa

Trade union Solidarity is taking Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni to court over alleged defamation, after she claimed that Solidarity and its sister organisation AfriForum led misinformation campaigns against South Africa. The union launched a defamation case against Ntshavheni, with President Cyril Ramaphosa being the second respondent in the case. Elvis Presslin spoke to Solidarity Deputy CEO, Anton van der Bijl

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, set up by President Cyril Ramaphosa to probe corruption and political interference in South Africa's justice system is facing criticism after revealing its findings will not be legally binding. Evidence Leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson says the Commission's role is to hold public hearings and make recommendations to the president, who will have the final say. The hearings are scheduled to start in Pretoria this month, with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as the first witness. Elvis Presslin spoke to Accountability Now Director, Advocate Paul Hoffman

Today marks International Alcohol and Foetal Spectrum Disorders Day. The day highlights the risks of alcohol use for pregnant women and their unborn children. To address this, a consultant with the South African Network of People who Use Drugs (SANPUD), has spearheaded a new initiative. Julie Mac Donnell developed "Pregnancy and Substance Use", a toolkit designed for South African healthcare professionals. It offers an evidence-based framework to support tailored, empathetic care for pregnant women using substances. Elvis Presslin spoke to Julie Mac Donnell to discuss this further

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

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will open the 12th SA AIDS Conference today at Emperor's Palace in Gauteng. The event gathers leaders, researchers, academics and advocates from South Africa and beyond to tackle the ongoing fight against HIV and its management. Elvis Presslin spoke to Public Health Specialist at Anova Health Institute and SA AIDS Conference 2025 Co-Chairperson, Dr. Kate Rees

MK Member of Parliament Visvin Reddy has slammed the exorbitant payments made to water board executives. According to a parliamentary response from Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, senior board members earn nearly R50-million a year in fees, with some pocketing up to R100,000 for a single meeting. Reddy calls this a blatant misuse of funds, accusing water boards of becoming cash cows for insiders while South Africans face ongoing water service disruptions. Mr. Reddy spoke to Elvis Presslin to elaborate further on these concerns

Shell and the South African government have applied for leave to appeal a High Court ruling that halted offshore drilling along the West Coast. Last month, the Western Cape High Court overturned environmental approval for exploration in Block 5,6 and 7 pointing to inadequate assessments of oil spill risks, climate impacts and effects on coastal communities. The case was brought by The Green Connection and Natural Justice against TotalEnergies and Shell. Elvis Presslin spoke to Shahil Singh, Legal Advisor at The Green Connection

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has condemned the killing of insolvency lawyer Bouwer van Niekerk, who was shot at his Johannesburg office on Friday. The Minister expressed her condolences to van Niekerk's family, friends and colleagues. Authorities are investigating but no motive has been established. Elvis Presslin spoke to Terrence Manase, Spokesperson to the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development

The South African Human Rights Commission has slammed unlawful evictions carried out by municipalities, law enforcement and private security firms. The Commission says these actions breach the Constitution and the Prevention of Illegal Eviction Act. The Commission also criticized Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's recent comments about conducting evictions in the early hours, calling them "inhumane, degrading and dangerous. Elvis Presslin spoke to Nomzamo Zondo, Executive Director of the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa, SERI

The Gauteng Health Department is urging parents and guardians to urgently sign consent forms to allow children to receive the Measles-Rubella vaccine amid an ongoing outbreak. The department says the six-week vaccination drive, running until September 12th, aims to protect over 3 million children, yet fewer than a million have been reached so far. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mari van der Westhuizen, Child health CDC Assistant Nursing Manager at the Tshwane District Outbreak Response unit from the Gauteng Department of Health