The Department of Employment and Labour is warning South Africans not to pay for employment services. The call comes after the latest scam where persons are asked to pay R250 for background checks at Pep stores. The department says it is illegal for private employment agencies to deduct any amount from employee's remuneration or demand them to pay for being placed in a job. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Director of the Employment Agency and Employment Services Board at the Department of Employment and Labour, Martin Ratshivhanda

Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla says they are engaging National Treasury for additional budget to employ newly qualified doctors. He was responding to the delays in the placement of graduate doctors. Phaahla says most of the affected doctors have been allocated posts but were unable to work due to lack of funding. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Cedric Sihlangu, General Secretary of the South African Medical Association Trade Union, SAMATU

Labour Federation COSATU says it's optimistic about the increase of the national minimum wage, which comes into effect next month. The national minimum wage has been increased to 27-rand 58-cents per hour, from 25-rand 42-cents per hour. To speak more on the matter Elvis Presslin chatted with COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator and Spokesperson, Matthew Parks 

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the mining sector has seen significant growth and major transformation, with black ownership increasing from 2% in 2004 to 39% this year. Ramaphosa was addressing the 30th Investing in African Mining Indaba, currently underway in Cape Town. The 2024 African Mining Indaba, the world's largest gathering of influential stakeholders in the mining industry focuses on the capitalization and development of mining interests in Africa. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to David Van Wyk, Lead Researcher at Bench Marks Foundation

The University of Kwazulu-Natal has introduced a compulsory module for its 9,000 first-year students, aiming to tackle societal issues like gender-based violence, racism, xenophobia, and homophobia. The module will consist of eight online lectures and tutorials. Now for more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Yanga Zembe-Zondi, an Associate Professor in the disciple of Community Development and the school's academic leader of community engagement at UKZN

More than half a million South Africans registered to vote, on the first day of the registration weekend. The Independent Electoral Commission, IEC held its final voter registration at the weekend. This as the country prepares for a defining election this year. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Terry Tselane, Executive Chairman of the Institute of Election Management Services in Africa and former vice chairperson of the Electoral Commission

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu says no effort will be spared to resolve the water crisis in eThekwini, KZN. He was speaking during a community engagement with residents of Verulam, Tongaat and Phoenix yesterday. Last week, residents took to the streets demanding for water be restored after weeks of prolonged water outages. To discuss this further, Elvis Presslin spoke to Minister Mchunu...

Tanzania's President, Samia Suluhu Hassan has joined a growing list of heads of states, who are offering messages of condolences following the passing of Namibia's President, Hage Geingob. Geingob, who was 82, passed away in a hospital in Windhoek weeks after being diagnosed with cancer. Elvis Presslin spoke to Namibian Political analyst, Rui Tyitende

Registrations for returning students at the Mangosuthu University of Technology have been postponed due to water challenges in parts of eThekwini Municipality. According to a statement from the university, MUT executives have postponed registration of returning students in favor of only registering first-time students. Students who are unable to register online will be assisted by staff members who remain on campus to ensure a smooth registration process, while mobile toilets and bottled water will be provided. Now for more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mbali Mkhize Senior director, marketing and communications at Mangosuthu University of Technology

Ekurhuleni Finance MMC Nkululeko Dunga has accused the Auditor General's office of being politically motivated for delaying the release of the City's latest audit report. However the public audit body says the report was completed on time but the City's dispute over audit outcomes of the 2022-23 financial year stalled the release of the report. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Action SA Ekurhuleni Caucus Leader, Siyanda Makhubo and Ekurhuleni Finance MMC Nkululeko Dunga

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS will today commence its loan-funding scheme for the so-called missing middle students. Last month NSFAS introduced a new loan scheme to provide financial assistance to a broader range of students from households with an annual income above the R350,000 threshold. The South African Union of Students, SAUS' Secretary General, Lukhanyo Daweti spoke to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri about the two week extension of NSFAS' registration cycle

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

Johannesburg bus service, Metrobus is currently in talks with the South African Municipal Workers' Union, Samwu after bus workers down tools yesterday. Metrobus employees embarked on a strike leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Workers are aggrieved over wages and shifts at the city's transport entity. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMWU Gauteng Treasurer, Karabo Ramahuma...

Tourism in South Africa is booming according to the recent numbers released by Statistics South Africa. International tourist arrivals from January to December 2023 totalled 8.5 million, representing a remarkable 48.9% increase when compared with same period in 2022. Of the 8.5 million visitors just over 2 million are from the African continent. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Department of Tourism Spokesperson, Tasneem Carrim

The Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF say the suspension of its MPs from next week's State of the Nation Address, SONA - is to shield President Cyril Ramaphosa from accountability. This after the Western Cape High Court dismissed an urgent application by the EFF to rescind the suspension of six of its MP's, including leader Julius Malema. Last year, the National Assembly resolved to suspend Malema, his deputy Floyd Shivambu and four other MPs for storming the stage during last year's SONA. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst, Dr. Piet Croucamp

The ANC in eThekwini have rubbished claims by the DA insinuating the municipality would fund EFF and ANC rallies in the coming week. This as the two parties are scheduled to launch manifesto rallies ahead of this year's national elections. The ANC is demanding the DA to provide evidence to support their claims. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC eThekwini Spokesperson, Mlondi Mkhize

The South African National Defence Union, SANDU has welcomed the reinstatement of a military recruit who was denied employment due to her HIV status. In 2017, a woman had undergone two years of training before her contracts were cancelled due to her HIV status. The South African National Defence Force re-employed the woman in 2023 after threats of litigation by Section27 and the AIDS Law Project. SANDU's National Secretary Advocate Pikkie Greeff told our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri HIV discrimination persists in the SANDF, despite multiple court judgments...

Thousands of South Africans living abroad have registered to vote in the upcoming national elections. The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) says nearly 30 000 people, across more than 100 countries globally have registered thus far. But Hayley Reichert, a passionate and committed South African based in London says there are still significant problems with overseas registration and voting. Elvis Presslin spoke to Hayley Reichert about this...

Eleven licensing officials have been arrested for fraud and corruption in Gauteng, the Free State and Mpumalanga. The arrests follow a three year investigation called Operation Catfish. The operation identified examiners who allegedly fraudulently issued drivers licenses and roadworthy certificates at various testing stations. The suspects in the Free State appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrates court yesterday. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Spokesperson for the Road Traffic Management Corporation, Simon Zwane 

The Democratic Alliance says President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration is to blame for South Africa's drop in a corruption perception index. The latest global ranking of perceptions of corruption shows the country has fallen to its lowest level ever recorded - scoring 41 out of 100. The DA has accused Ramaphosa's administration of being more corrupt than his predecessor, Jacob Zuma. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA National Spokesperson, Werner Horn

The International Monetary Fund, IMF has cut its economic-growth forecasts for South Africa. The IMF has cited the country's energy crisis and logistical challenges at its ports and railways. In its World Economic Outlook released yesterday, the Washington-based lender says South Africa will likely grow by a meager 1% this year. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Frank Blackmore, Lead Economist at KPMG South Africa

The South African Heritage Resource Agency, SAHRA have welcomed the suspension of a controversial auction of former President Nelson Mandela's personal items. New York-based Guernsey's auction house announced the suspension on its websites without further explanation. The auction, which was scheduled to take place in February, would have seen 70 personal items belonging to the global Iconic and anti-apartheid being auctioned off. SAHRA's Ben Mwasinga spoke to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri about some aspects that led to the suspension...

The U.N. Security Council has expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. This amidst the International Court of Justice's recent ruling ordering Israel to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians in its war with Hamas. The Council says there is an urgent need to expand flow of humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza strip. Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed South Africa will approach the Council to intervene in the humanitarian crisis. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Chris Landsberg, Director of the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg...  

Former President Jacob Zuma has 48 hours to respond to his suspension from the ANC. The party's National Executive Committee took a decision to suspend Zuma as a member after he joined and campaigned for the rival uMkhonto we Sizwe party ahead of this year's national elections. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst Tessa Dooms

The ANC in the Greater Johannesburg Region has expressed shock after a Rand Water executive was shoot and killed at the Zakariyya Park community hall in Vlakfontein. The incident occurred during a Back-to-School campaign at the centre. The City of Johannesburg Council's Chief Whip, Sthembiso Zungu was shot and wounded at the same event. ANC Greater Johannesburg Spokesperson, Masilo Serekele spoke to Elvis Presslin

The South African Police Service, SAPS says the 2021 July unrest was a learning curve for its members. A report by the Human Rights Commission into the July unrest found police were ill-prepared for the insurrection. The report also found no evidence linking the unrest to former President Jacob Zuma's arrest. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to National Police Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Youth League President Collen Malatji has declined nomination to go to Parliament. Malatji declined the invitation in a written response to the ANC's selection panel. This despite the League requesting a 50% representation on the ANC list in parliament.  For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Zama Khanyase, Spokesperson for the ANC Youth League

The Ad-hoc Committee on the Western Cape Provincial Powers Bill will today hold public hearings into the controversial Bill. The bill seeks to promote the assertion of existing provincial powers whilst also seeking the devolution of some of the national powers. The ANC has called on the public to reject the Bill in its entirety. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC leader in the Western Cape legislature, Cameron Dugmore and Ivan Meyer, Federal Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance, DA in the Western Cape

The Democratic Alliance Abroad is calling for more overseas voting stations ahead of this year's national elections. The DA Abroad launched an online petition urging the Independent Electoral Commission, IEC to increase the number of voting stations accessible to South Africans abroad. This weekend the IEC launch a registration campaign in embassies and missions across the world for South African expatriates. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Abroad Communication Manager, Kelly Clark, who is in Australia

The International Court of Justice, ICJ will today deliver its verdict on South Africa's request for an interim ruling on its genocide case against Israel. South Africa hauled Israel before the ICJ at The Hague in the Netherlands, accusing it of committing genocide in Gaza. Israel has maintained it was acting in self-defence after the attack by Hamas in October last year. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Patrick Lukusa Kadima, an International Law expert from the University of Witwatersrand

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 young alleged fraudster is facing various charges of fraud after convincing South Africa's apex security cluster NatJoints he is a diplomat. 24 year old Nhlanhla Sizani allegedly misrepresented himself as a UN ambassador or diplomat and was escorted around by police to polling stations as an observer during the 2021 local government elections. Sizani faces charges of fraud, forgery, and uttering. His case will be heard next month. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Willem Els, Training Coordinator and researcher at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS)... 

The Chris Hani District Municipality, in collaboration with the Eastern Cape Development Corporation and the Chris Hani Development Agency, is hosting a delegation from Egypt to discuss the planned provincial Fertilizer Blending Plant, among other things. The delegation will be joining South Africa's ambassador to Egypt, Ntsiki Mashimbye, as part of the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Growth concluded between Egypt, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Abongile Hala, Eastern Cape Development Corporation CEO

The Reserve bank's monetary policy committee is expected to announce its decision on interest rates this afternoon. This comes as data released by Statistics South Africa shows that consumer price inflation moderated from five-point-five percent in November, to five-point-one percent in December 2023. Inflation averaged six-percent in 2023, lower than six-point-nine percent in 2022. Elvis Presslin spoke to Frank Blackmore, Lead Economist at KPMG South Africa

Tensions ran high outside the Groblersdal Magistrate's Court in Limpopo yesterday after two suspects appeared on charges of assault, believed to be racially motivated. A father and stepson were arrested for allegedly assaulting a black security guard and setting a dog on him for reportedly being drunk on duty. A group of Groblersdal residents showed up to the court carrying apartheid flags and blockaded roads in solidarity with the two suspects. Police fired stun grades to disperse the supporters, who were demanding the suspects release from custody. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Founding Member and Director of Betereinders, Johan Erasmus

Labour federation COSATU is requesting an urgent meeting with parliament to discuss challenges facing workers. This as 6,000 postal workers face pending retrenchments while some SABC staff have yet to receive a wage increase in three years. COSATU has since written to various committees in parliament to intervene on matters concerning workers. Elvis Presslin spoke to Cosatu General Secretary, Solly Phetoe

The first phase of a project to secure the future of wild vulture populations in Southern  Africa has been successfully completed, with 160 Cape and African White-backed vultures settled into their new home at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, in the Eastern Cape. In what is said to be the largest relocation of vultures ever undertaken, the birds were transported over one thousand kilometres from VulPro's facility in Hartebeespoort, in the North West province,  to bespoke enclosures at Shamwari. For more on this Elvis Presslin  spoke to  the CEO at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Joe Cloete

The EFF in Tshwane is threatening to approach the court in a bid to force the City of Tshwane to account to what happened to the R67-million revamp project for the Caledonian Soccer Stadium in Pretoria. Meanwhile, Several civic organisations and political parties will march to Tshwane House to highlight the alleged lack of service delivery in black communities. The group will be lead by Civid Organisation, Lotus Atteridgeville Saulsville Civic Association, LASCA who are also demanding the City of Tshwane to stop estimating ratepayers' utility bills. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the Chairperson of the Economic Freedom Fighters in Tshwane who have been vocal about the alleged service delivery inequality in the region, Obakeng Ramabodu

The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing into suspended High Court Judge Nana Makhubele's conduct continues today in Johannesburg. This after a request by her lawyers for another postponement was denied. Makhubele is being investigated following a complaint filed by civil society organisation, #UniteBehind. The organisation alleges that Makhubele violated the separation of powers principle by being both a judge and chairperson of a state-owned company and allegedly advancing corruption and state capture. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Judges Matters Attorney and Coordinator, Alison Tilley

A witness in the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry into the Marshalltown fire that killed 77 people has admitted to setting the building ablaze. The man says he was trying to cancel a murder by setting the body alight, when the incident took place. Although the man has admitted to the act under oath, his testimony will not be used in court or as part of any other criminal investigation. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola will release the matric results for inmates nationally. Minister Lamola will also award top performing inmates and teachers across correctional centres who are hard at work transferring skills to inmates. Earlier, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said it is commendable that more than 130 of the 900-thousand matric candidates who wrote the 2023 exams were prisoners, adding that 90 of them got bachelors and 34 got diplomas. For a comment on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Golden Miles Bhudu, spokesperson for the South African Prisoners Organisation for Human Rights 

Prospective students are reportedly being denied admission Into Universities and TVET colleges due to limited capacity and delays in the disbursement of NSFAS allowances. Scores of first year students were reportedly unable to register nor pay for accommodation due to delayed funding. But the National Student Financial Aid Scheme claims to have paid just under half of last year's outstanding allowances and have cited universities for delays. To further discuss Elvis Presslin spoke to Asive Dlanjwa, Spokesperson for the South African Union of Students, SAUS...

Gauteng police are still searching for suspects after five men were stoned to death by angry community members in a suspected mob attack at Rabie Ridge in Tembisa, east of Johannesburg. The deceased were accused of being behind several criminal activities in the community of Kanana. Police have urged the public not to take the law into their own hands as this also constitutes to a crime, but rather work together with the police by reporting crime. Elvis Presslin spoke to Tembisa Community Forum Spokesperson, Xolani Mnisi

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 murder of Senzo Meyiwa was a contract killing, as opposed to a robbery gone wrong. This according to an affidavit read in court by lead investigator in the Meyiwa case Bongani Gininda, who is currently under cross-examination. Former Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa was gunned down in 2014 at singer Kelly Khumalo's house in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni. Five men are currently on trial for the crime. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to AfriForum private prosecution unit head, Advocate Gerrie Nel who has always maintained that Meyiwa's murder was a hit

The leader of Rise Mzansi Songezo Zibi says key priorities for the party is to put in place capable leaders, end to cadre deployment and fix the government's finances. Zibi outlined his party's offering, dubbed the People's Manifesto, to approximately four thousand party supporters over the weekend in Pretoria. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Rise Mzansi Strategic Campaign Advisor, Khume Ramulifho 

uMkhonto WeSizwe Party's Bonginkosi Khanyile has assured its supporters that former president Jacob Zuma will be the face of the party in the upcoming general elections. Zuma has previously said that he will campaign and vote for the party which currently has an acting president. Khanyile was addressing supporters at the party's rally in Malamulele, Limpopo where he also accused the IEC of preventing Zuma from contesting the elections. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to MK Party Spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela

More than 150 people have been displaced and several have been injured after a residential building caught fire yesterday, claiming the lives of two people. It's alleged a woman sprayed paraffin on one of the shacks and set it alight. A woman has been arrested by the police for allegedly starting the fire. The City of Johannesburg says they are in the process of reclaiming hijacked and non-compliant buildings in the Johannesburg inner city.  For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the City of Johannesburg spokesperson Nthatisi Modingoane 

A 41 year old taxi owner was arrested for his alleged involvement in taxi violence, extortion, and other crimes in the Amathole District municipality. He was found in possession of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition, and is suspected to be involved in similar crimes outside the province. Eastern Cape Province police say they have increased their deployment of specialised units to combat a recent spike in taxi-related violence. This follows the death of six people in the Port St Johns in the past two weeks. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Eastern Cape Police Spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli

The news of an upcoming auction, featuring the late statesman, tata Nelson Mandela's personal items including his green ID book has stirred controversy and criticism among South Africans. This as the South African Heritage Resources Agency says it will appeal the ruling of the High Court in Pretoria. Last month, the court allowed Madiba's daughter Makaziwe Mandela to auction some of his personal belongings including his identity document. Elvis Presslin spoke to Kgoshi Mathupa Mokoena, the President of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA)

City of Johannesburg says it is in the process of reclaiming hijacked and non-compliant buildings in the Johannesburg inner city. This, after a residential building caught fire in the Johannesburg CBD on yesterday morning, claiming the lives of two people.  The two-story building had been partitioned by shacks. It's alleged a woman sprayed paraffin on one of the shacks and set it alight. Elvis Presslin spoke to Siyabonga Mahlangu, General Secretary of Inner City Federation, a civil society group

With matric results released countrywide, concerns about South Africa's higher education system and its ability to prepare graduates for employment remain high. While universities hold limited capacity, high drop-out rates and a 33% unemployment rate for graduates paint a stark picture.  To discuss these issues Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to the Chief Executive Officer of iFundi, Stefan Lauber

A group calling itself SA Citizens will today march to the South African Home Affairs in Pretoria to submit a memorandum of recommendations on the overhauling of the country's immigration laws. The group comprises of residents who say they do not affiliate to any political organisation. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Convener and Chairperson of SA Citizens, Zweli Ndaba

The DA says it categorically rejects the claims for member Ghaleb Cachalia has manufactured in an attempt to justify his resignation, including his mischaracterisation of the party's position on the war in Gaza. Former DA MP Ghaleb Cachalia resignned yesterday saying the leadership of the DA has become increasingly uncomfortable with his public utterances over the past few months. He says the matter mainly concerns issues around the war on Gaza. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to the Spokesperson for the Democratic Alliance, Solly Malatsi

The Free State is the leading province regarding the matric results, with 89 per cent, an increase of zero-point-five per cent from 2022. KwaZulu-Natal, which is the third best improved province, has achieved 86-point-four per cent up from three-point-four per cent while the Gauteng pass rate is at 85-point-four per cent with a one per cent improvement. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to the MEC of the department of Education in the Free State, MAkalo Mohale

Sebenzile Nkambule looks 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...

Two of the main opposition candidates in Democratic Republic of Congo's December presidential election have called for a protest tomorrow, when President Felix Tshisekedi is due to be sworn in for a second term. Tshisekedi and his party won the general election in December last year, by a landslide, but the vote was marred by widespread allegations of fraud, logistical shortcomings and disruptions. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Feature Story News (FSN) correspondent in the DRC, Chris Ocamringa 

The suspects arrested in connection with the taxi violence in Port St Johns in the Eastern Cape will appear in the Port St Johns Magistrate court today (Thursday). Police arrested eleven suspects in connection with the incident. Three people were killed and five sustained gunshot wounds, following a shoot-out between Uncedo Taxi Associations and Border Alliance Taxi Association on Tuesday. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Eastern Cape Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa

Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga will release the National Senior Certificate results for the class of 2023 today. This as the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) attained an overall pass rate of 98.46% in the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. For analysis, Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Professor of Practice at the University of Johannesburg, Professor Mary Metcalfe

Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Tshwane residents are warned of an impending water supply interruption going to take place this Sunday. Rand Water says residents will experience low pressure to no water supply for eight hours starting at eight in the morning to three in the afternoon. This is because Eskom will be carrying out maintenance work on the transformers that supply power to the Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Rand Water spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo

The Independent Examinations Board matric candidates obtained a 98.46% pass rate for the 2023 academic year. This is up from the 98.42% pass rate in 2022. More than 15 000 candidates wrote their matric exams set by the IEB. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to St John's College Top Achiever with 10 distinctions and a 98.5% pass average, Julian Kuni and Jozi Nupen who started her journey at St Stithians Girls' College by winning the Anne van Zyl scholarship for academics

The advancement of digital technology is having a major, and often detrimental impact on the mental health of internet users. This is according to Clinical Psychologist Dr. Rani Samuel. Dr. Samuel says recent reports of a teenager from the UK being gang raped in a virtual reality game are some of the consequence's of the Metaverse. Reports in the UK say a girl identified only as being under the age of 16 was using a Virtual Reality (VR) headset in an immersive game when her avatar was allegedly assaulted by avatars representing several men. To discuss this further we are joined on the line by Clinical Psychologist and Author Dr. Rani Samuel

Former DA and Gauteng Provincial Legislature member, Khume Ramulifho says he has doubts about the official opposition's performance at this year's polls.  Being a member of the Democratic Alliance for nearly three decades, Ramulifho announced his resignation from the party to join Rise Mzansi, which was formed last year.  He served as the DA Youth Regional Chairperson, the Gauteng Provincial Youth Leader and the Federal Youth Leader. For analysis on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Professor Nontsikelelo Breakfast, Director of the Center for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution at the Nelson Mandela University

The Mayor of Port St John's in the Eastern Cape, Nomvuzo Mlombile Cingo, has called for calm and peace after an alleged shooting between taxi operators. Heavily armed men allegedly invaded the town and fired shots towards taxi operators. It is alleged that there were bodies on the floor which included people wearing security guard uniform that are seen lying on the street. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Port St John Mayor, Nomvuzo Mlombile Cingo

Experts say there are several ways of dealing with stress and depression as a result of unfavourable matric results. This comes as matric class of 2023 is anxiously waiting for their matric results with concerns whether they performed well in their exams. The IEB and the NSC matric results are expected to be released tomorrow and on Friday respectively. To discuss this further Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to South African Depression and Anxiety Group's Project Manager, Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha

The South African Weather Service has issued a warning for more disruptive rains that could lead to localised flooding in KwaZulu Natal, from today (Wednesday). This, as recovery operations were still under way following the deadly floods in the province.  For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Siyabonga Hlatswayo, South African Red Cross Society KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Manager, who talks to us about their rescue operations and KwaZulu-Natal Education Department spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi on the reopening of schools

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr. Blade Nzimande has announced a new student loan scheme for missing middle. Nzimande says government has set aside R3.8 billion to fund the country's 'missing middle' students who were not covered by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Nzimande, also announced the appointment of Professor Lourens van Staden as acting chairperson of the National Financial Aid Scheme. To discuss this further Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Buti Manamela

The African Transformation Movement (ATM) is accusing the South African Revenue Service (SARS) of double standards for its alleged failure to hold President Cyril Ramaphosa accountable over the Phala Phala farmgate scandal. This after SARS opened a criminal case against Sudanese businessman Hazim Mustafa, who bought buffalos from President Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm in Limpopo. In December 2019, Ramaphosa disclosed to investigators that Mustafa handed a staggering 580,000 U.S dollars in cash to his farm manager - which was reportedly undeclared. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to ATM National Spokesperson, Zama Ntshona

ActionSA in Tshwane has announced Dr. Nasiphi Moya as its nominee for the position of deputy mayor of Tshwane. ActionSA has been advocating for the position to ensure the principles of co-governance were applied. But the EFF has rejected the proposal citing wasteful expenditure and political expediency. To discuss this further Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to ActionSA's nominee for Deputy Mayor of Tshwane, Dr. Nasiphi Moya

Anti-poverty group, Oxfam International's latest report points to a widening gap of inequality between the haves and have nots. This as five of the richest men having more than doubled their fortunes to nearly 860-billion-dollars since 2020, while five-billion people have become poorer. The report comes as some of the world's most influential people and business elites gather for the annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos Switzerland. Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Professor Jannie Rossouw, a visiting Professor at the Wits Business School

Sebenzile Nkambule 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

Sanlam Investments says it investigating one of its employees after a Cape Town motorist was reportedly attacked for displaying pro-Palestine posters on her vehicle. The woman wrote on X that she was a target of hate speech by another motorist who confronted and attacked her for showing solidarity with Palestine as the conflict between Hamas and Israel rages on. Her post has since gone viral with the alleged aggressor being identified as a Sanlam employee. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to ANC leader in the Western Cape legislature, Cameron Dugmore

The Department of Basic Education says it is aware of the challenges that confront schools in KwaZulu Natal due to floods caused by heavy downpours. Schools are opening on Wednesday nationwide for the start of the academic year. At least ten people are feared dead in the province. Search and rescue teams were still looking for at least two bodies of people who were washed away in oThongathi.  Four other people are still missing in the area. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to spokesperson for the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Siboniso Mngadi 

The death toll in the latest KwaZulu-Natal floods has risen to six. Another four people are still missing in areas north of Durban. This follows a level 2 warning by the South African Weather service of disruptive rainfall and thunderstorms. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to South African Weather Service Forecaster, Lehlohonolo Thobela

The Democratic Alliance has slammed President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to deploy the South African National Defence force to the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC. The DA says the deployment to the eastern DRC to neutralize the M23 rebels is reckless and must be reversed. For more on this Sebenzile Nkambule spoke to Kobus Marais, DA Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

The Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu has called on teenage mothers to return back to school to break the cycle of poverty. She was speaking during her visit to the local SASSA office in Emakhazeni, Mpumalanga on Wednesday. Teenage mothers had visited the SASSA office to apply for Child Support grants for their new borns. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Minister Lindiwe Zulu

The ANC will mark its 112th anniversary in Mbombela, Mpumalanga tomorrow. President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver the party's January 8th statement to ANC supporters in attendance at Mbombela stadium. Ramaphosa is also likely to use the event as an opportunity to unveil the party's manifesto for this year's national and provincial elections. For the party's state of readiness, Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC General Manager Ms. Febe Potgieter

Some political analysts believe South Africa's genocide case against Israel will likely bolster its International standing and garner support for the ANC ahead of a crucial election this year. South Africa has taken Israel to the International Court of Justice, ICJ, in The Hague accusing it of committing genocide against Palestinians during the Gaza conflict. More than 20, 000 people have been killed in Gaza since October last year. So what does the case before the ICJ entail for the South African government and President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2024 election campaign? To answer this and more, Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst, Tessa Dooms

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

Police Minister Bheki Cele has revealed that more than 1 700 official police firearms were stolen between April 2021 and July 2023. Minister Cele was responding to a parliamentary question from the Democratic Alliance (DA). The party says this amounts to 61 firearms stolen every single month, over the last two and a half years. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Police, Okkie Terblanche

The International Court of Justice will today hear South Africa's genocide case against Israel. South Africa's 84-page submission, filed in December last year, accuses Israel of  genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza. More than 22,000 Palestinians have been killed since Hamas attacked Israel in October last year. Oral proceedings on the matter will take place today and tomorrow at the Hague in Netherlands. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Wendy Kahn, National Director of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies and Dr. Etienne Mutabazi, a Lawyer who served at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda

Leader of the Congress Of the People (COPE) Mosiua Lekota is calling for change to the electoral system. Lekota says the constitution should be amended so voters can directly vote for a candidate of their choice to lead the country. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to COPE acting general secretary, Erick Mohlapamaswi

Former police minister Nathi Nhleko has reportedly lashed out at ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula over his Nkandla fire pool remarks. Nhleko, who served as Minister under former President Jacob Zuma's administration and presided over security upgrades at his private Nkandla residence is reportedly heard on a leaked Whatsapp voice note saying Mbalula is the worst secretary general since the party's inception in 1912. The voice note was apparently sent to an ANC Whatsapp group of the Musa Dladla region. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Musa Dladla Regional Deputy Chairperson, Phiwe Mhlongo

The UN Human Rights Council will today elect its new President from two competing African States - Morocco and South Africa. Moroccan Ambassador Omar Zniber and South African Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi have been nominated for the position of President of the Council. The candidate with the most votes will occupy the year-long term to manage proceedings of the United Nations' premier human rights body. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Chris Landsberg, Director of the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS has welcomed the Labour Court's decision to reject its axed CEO's bid for reinstatement. Andile Nongogo was fired after corruption allegations emerged involving four NSFAS service providers who were awarded tenders irregularly. This as the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) is calling for the resignation of Higher Education Minister Dr. Blade Nzimande and NSFAS board chairperson Ernest Khosa over allegations of corruption. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Rudie Heyneke, who is OUTA's Investigations Manager

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says the management of mining company Impala Platinum has withdrawn the suspension notices it had issued against some workers for their involvement in a three-day sit-in underground last month. Employees have been protesting over a number of issues including pension funds and the employee share scheme. Some workers were expected to report back at work last night. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Geoffrey Moatshe, NUM Rustenburg Regional Secretary

The South African National Civic Organisation, SANCO says its national leadership will meet with former President Jacob Zuma following his decision to support the newly formed Umkhonto Wesizwe party. The civic organization says no SANCO member can campaign for another political party either than the ANC. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SANCO President Richard Mkhungo

Gold One has fired 401 mine workers following an illegal strike. The miners were dismissed for taking part in the illegal underground strike last year at the company's Modder East operation in Springs, Gauteng. Workers downed tools due to a labour dispute over organising rights at the mine, leading to over 500 workers staging a sit-in underground. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Krister Janse van Rensburg, AMCU's head of organisation development

The Competition Commission says it is inundated with complaints from parents who are forced by schools to buy school uniform from exclusively selected suppliers. Parents say they are still forced to buy prescribed mandatory school uniforms from exorbitant pre-selected suppliers of school uniform. The Commission says parents must be given options when purchasing uniforms. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Matakanye Matakanye, General secretary of the National Association of School Governing Bodies

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

Four additional suspects are expected to appear before the Soshanguve Magistrates' court today for a New Year's day mass shooting in Jukulyn. 14-year-old Vuyolwethu Ziwela, her uncle Mpho Kgobotlo and  two of his friends including a police officer were shot dead by armed gunmen after ushering in the New Year. The four suspects join two others who have already appeared in the same court on charges of murder. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo

Political party Xiluva is calling for clarity from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on submission of signatures for this year's national elections. The party says without clear instructions on the process and deadline, new entrants are placed at a disadvantage. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Xiluva President, Bongani Baloyi

The African National Congress, ANC turns 112 today. The party was founded on the 8th of January 1912 in Bloemfontein and is the oldest liberation movement in Africa. ANC members are already gathering for this weekend's 112th birthday celebrations in Mbombela, Mpumlanga. The gathering comes at a time when the governing party - Which has been in power since the dawn of democracy in 1994 - faces electoral uncertainty ahead of this year's national elections. To elaborate further on the party's milestones and challenges since its inception, Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Youth League spokesperson Zama Khanyase and Alliance partner, SACP Spokesperson and Secretary for Policy and Research, Dr. Alex Mashilo

The FF Plus is calling for an urgent meeting with Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Higher Education following allegations of corruption at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS.  Leaked voice recordings by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) implicates Higher Education Minister Dr. Blade Nzimande and NSFAS board chairperson Ernest Khosa in alleged corruption and bribery claims at the financial aid scheme. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to FF Plus Chief Spokesperson, Dr. Wynand Boshoff

Disaster teams are conducting assessments after inclement weather hit several parts of KwaZulu Natal in December, last year. The provincial Department of Cooperative Governance says 40 people died during the festive season due to floods that battered the province. For an update Elvis Presslin spoke to KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, spokesperson Siboniso Mngadi

The United States has expressed concern following comments by Burundian President General Évariste Ndayishimiye calling on citizens to stone same-sex couples in the country. Homosexuality is illegal in Burundi and punishable by imprisonment for a term of up 2 year. Homosexuality is also illegal in other countries in the region, including Uganda. For reaction to this, Elvis Presslin spoke to South African activist Steve Letsike

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) says municipalities must be punished for poor budgeting. Outa wants officials to be held accountable for poor financial management and failure to deliver services to communities. The organisation also highlights that municipalities face a R200 billion annual shortfall if the lack of revenue collection continues as it did between July and September. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Project Manager for OUTA's Community Action Network (CAN) Initiative, Jonathan Erasmus

President Cyril Ramaphosa will seek leave to appeal the ruling by the High Court in Pretoria that set aside his recognition of the Zulu Monarch, Misuzulu. The Court found Ramaphosa did not follow due processes in accordance with customary law and traditions when issuing the certification to Misuzulu as king. The president has since been ordered to appoint an investigative committee to probe the matter. For analysis on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today officiate the passing-out parade of new police officers in Kimberley, Northern Cape. Today's parade is one of several ceremonies taking place in seven provinces this week. 10 000 new officers are expected to graduate from various police academies this week after completing their basic training. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to National Police Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe...

Political party Xiluva will challenge the appointment of Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens as Traffic Officers in court. This after Justice Minister Ronald Lamola granted the wardens dubbed amaPanyaza, the same legal status as provincial traffic officers. Police experts have raised concern over the legitimacy of the 6,000 wardens appointed by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi earlier this year. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Bongani Baloyi, President of Xiluva

A report by American health information provider, Healthline Media, has revealed that social isolation is one of the biggest predictors of depression, especially during the holidays season. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) says there are a lot of people who feel lonely over the festive season. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Tracy Feinstein, Call Centre Manager at the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)... 

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's crime prevention wardens have been granted peace officer status. Justice Minister Ronald Lamola has granted the wardens dubbed amaPanyaza the same legal status as provincial traffic officers. This follows fierce debates over the legitimacy of the 6,000 wardens who were appointed earlier this year to assist police. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's spokesperson Sizwe Pamla

Border Management Authority Commissioner Michael Masiapato will host his Zimbabwean counterpart during a bilateral visit to South Africa today. The visit aims to showcase South Africa's model of administration and border management coordination. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Border Management Authority Commissioner, Dr. Michael Masiapato

Civil society organisations have raised concern over South Africa's efforts to increase nuclear power capacity. This after Electricity Minister, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa announced a procurement process for 2500 megawatts of nuclear power to form part of additional generation capacity. Briefing the media in Pretoria yesterday Dr. Ramokgopa says the new nuclear procurement determination is in the process of being gazetted. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Francesca de Gasparis, Executive Director of Southern African Faith Communities' Environment Institute, SAFCEI

At least eight senior Eastern Cape government officials are out on bail after appearing in court on corruption charges. The suspects appeared in the Zwelitsha Magistrates' Court over a fraudulent R20-million tender for the procurement of 72 temporary classrooms and furniture. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to NPA provincial Spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has called for an end to the discrimination against athlete Caster Semenya. Semenya has been frozen out of the sport for refusing to take medicine to lower her testosterone levels. The commission says there are still many discriminatory hurdles that intersex persons must overcome. This as the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) made a ruling on the Caster Semenya's case in July this year. The court found that World Athletics is bound by international law and may not discriminate without compelling reasons for doing so. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Acting Head of Legal Services at the Commission for Gender Equality, Tsietsi Shuping

The lawyers of Prince Simakade Zulu say President Cyril Ramaphosa was warned not to declare King Misuzulu KaZwelithini as Isilo of the Zulu nation. This after the Pretoria High Court declared the President's certification of Misuzulu as King of AmaZulu was unlawful and invalid. Prince Simakade approached the court to challenge the legitimacy of his half-brother King Misuzulu's position. Prince Simakade's Attorney Johann Herman told our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri they wrote to Ramaphosa to halt the certification process due to Prince Simakade's review application but the plea was ignored. Zulu Cultural expert from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Professor Nogwaja Zulu weighs in on this issue with Elvis Presslin and Kgoshi Larmeck Mokoena, president of traditional Leaders Organisation, Contralesa gives us his reaction...

The alleged hostage situation at Gold One Mine in Springs, Johannesburg has entered its fifth day, today. More than 400 mine workers have been underground since last week. This is the workers second sit-in in three months at the mine. The miners want colleagues who were dismissed as a result of the first sit-in to be reinstated. The workers say they will not resurface until their demands are met. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to AMCU President, Joseph Mathunjwa

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

SASSA and Postbank say physical cash payment points and cash withdrawal of social grants inside Post Offices will be phased out from January next year. The two entities say SASSA Gold Card social grant recipients using cash payment points and Post Office branches must now use those cards at facilities that accept bank cards. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Postbank Spokesperson, Dr. Bongani Diako

NSFAS will from next year take over the accreditation of Private Accommodation Providers as well as the accommodation of NSFAS-funded students. This is one of the agreements reached between NSFAS and institutions of higher learning in the new NSFAS Student Accommodation Pilot Project. NSFAS is calling upon all Private Accommodation Providers to apply for accreditation in order for them to be able to offer student accommodation for NSFAS beneficiaries. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to NSFAS Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi

Former banker Roger Jardine has launched his new political party "Change Starts Now". Jardine launched the party in his hometown of Riverlea, Johannesburg on Sunday. He says the party will contest next year's general elections as change in power is needed for South Africans to reclaim their stolen futures. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Human rights and social activist, Mark Heywood who has joined hands with Mr. Jardine, to bring this change into fruition

The National Union of Mineworkers, NUM has threatened to review its support for the ANC In next year's elections. This after government representatives failed to receive a memorandum of demands from the union. NUM members to the Union Building at the weekend to raise concerns over the Transit crisis and mass retrenchments in the mining sector. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Bizzah Motubatse, NUM Highveld Regional Chairperson, in Pretoria

Electricity Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa also says the appointment of Dan Marokane as the new Eskom CEO will restore stability to the power utility. Ramorokane replaces Andre de Ruyter who left Eskom end of March this year. Marokane has previously held positions within the group executives and group capital departments at Eskom. Meanwhile Tshepo Monaheng has been appointed as the new Group CEO of Denel Group. To discuss the appointments further Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator and Spokesperson, Matthew Parks

Mafube municipal workers face a bleak Christmas as the municipality is unable to pay salaries yet again. The troubled municipality in the Free State announced it will not be able to pay its workers' salaries in December and for the next two months. The municipality has reportedly been operating with an unfunded budget for the past five years. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Tiisetso Mahlatsi, Secretary for the South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU), in the Free State, which is demanding salary payments of all workers

Post Bank says it wants to assure all grants recipients that all gold cards will continue to work beyond December this year. Postbank is also warning SASSA Gold Card beneficiaries to beware of false rumors doing the rounds that the SASSA cards are expiring this month. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Postbank Spokesperson, Dr. Bongani Diako

Over 250 Bakubung Platinum Mine workers are still staging a sit-in underground over wages. The disgruntled miners are refusing to resurface until their demands are met. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Geoffrey Moatshe, Rustenburg regional Secretary of the National Union of Mine Workers, NUM

Business 4 South Africa and Business Unity South are petitioning against the passing of the NHI Bill. This after the controversial Bill which seeks to provide universal access to quality health care for all South Africans was passed in the National Council of Provinces on Wednesday. The business organisations have vowed to formally submit a petition to President Cyril Ramaphosa for the Bill to be amended. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Martin Kingston, Chairperson of Business for South Africa

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Independent Electoral Commission says the second and final voter registration weekend will take place on the 3rd and 4th of February 2024. The IEC says it is hopeful that the second registration weekend will build on and surpass the satisfactory turn out recorded in November. The registration saw the IEC reach a record 26.8 million voters register to vote in next year's elections. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Masego Sheburi

ANC general secretary Fikile Mbalula has accused party veterans of trying to de-campaign the organization. Mbalula was addressing the media at Luthuli House. He says veterans have led a charge against the liberation movement by attacking the party while its facing challenges. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent political analyst Dr. Dale McKinley

The South African National Defence Force, SANDF will today hold a media briefing in Pretoria, to respond to allegations of criminal activities within the military. A four-part exposé by by civil society Open Secrets implicates rogue units of the SANDF in murder, kidnappings, torture, corruption and abuse of power among other crimes which date back to 2019. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Kobus Marais, DA Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

The Democratic Alliance, DA is taking legal action against expelled party member Tsepo Mhlongo for defamation. The party says action will be taken against its former members, Mbali Ntuli and Tsepo Mhlongo, for their 'defamatory' and 'false' statements on social media posts accusing the party of corruption. Mhlongo who was recently expelled from the party accused the DA for a lack of transparency and fairness. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mhlongo

North West police are calling on citizens to be vigilant following a spate of robberies against locals and tourists in the province. The call follows concerns over increasing crime especially around Rustenburg. Last week criminals attacked and robbed a bus full of international tourists enroute to Sun City. To look into some safety tips for those heading to tourist destinantion sites, Elvis Presslin spoke to Tshifhwa Tshivhengwa, Chief Executive Officer of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa

Mavuso Msimang, deputy president of the African National Congress Veterans' League (ANCVL), has resigned from the party after more than 60 years. Msimang said in his three-page resignation letter,  that 'For several years now, the ANC has been wracked by endemic corruption, with devastating consequences on the governance of the country and the lives of poor people, of whom there continue to be so many. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC senior political reporter, Ntebo Mokobo

A memorial service for mineworkers who were killed following a fatal accident at Impala Platinum Mine's Shaft 11 near Rustenburg is expected to be held this morning. At least 13 mineworkers died following the disaster, with 11 of them dying on the scene and two dying in hospital a few days after the incident. The memorial will be held at the mine's number 8 sports grounds. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Impala Platinum Mine Spokesperson, Johan Theron

The ANC in the Eastern Cape have raised concern following the brutal death of two initiates at an initiation school in Ngqamakhwe. The two Initiates were reportedly shot and killed yesterday. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Gift Ngqondi, ANC Provincial Head of Communications

The Democratic Alliance, DA is heading to court If President Cyril Ramaphosa fails to publicize his cabinet ministers' performance assessments. The party will submit Promotion of Access to Information Act, PAIA applications to each of Ramaphosa's Ministries. Briefing the media in Cape Town on the assessment of both Parliament and the executive in the 6th Democratic Parliament, DA leader John Steenhuisen says Ramaphosa withholding the performance assessments of cabinet Ministers shows a deeply concerning disregard for democracy. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the DA Chief Whip in Parliament, Siviwe Gwarube

Nearly half of South Africa's drinking water is unsafe. This was revealed when Water and Sanitation Senzo Mchunu released the Blue and No drop water report. The report has also revealed a regression or decline in the performance of many municipal drinking water systems since 2014. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to WaterCAN's Julius Kleyhans

The ANC has until today to settle its outstanding R102 million owed to Ezulweni Investments or face liquidation. The party owes the KZN-based printing and marketing company over 100-million for election material supplied to it for its 2019 election campaign. The ANC has since approached the Constitutional Court to prevent the attachment of its assets at Luthuli House for the debt owed to Ezulweni Investments. Ezulweni attorney, Shafique Sarlie told our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri, that a liquidation application against the party would prove detrimental for the ANC ahead of next year's election

The Hawks have taken over the investigation into an incident where KwaZulu-Natal police seized cocaine worth more than a 150-million rand at the Durban Harbour. This is the third big drug bust in two months at the harbour. In October R150 million worth of cocaine was seized at the same harbour. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Police National Spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe

The Democratic Alliance ( DA) in the Eastern Cape, will today hold picket about the pro-longed closure of the district office of the Department of Social Development in East London. It has been nearly two years since its closure together with six local service office. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Eastern Cape Shadow MEC for Social Development, Kobus Botha

Independent candidates will no longer need 15 000 signatures to contest next year's general elections. The Constitutional Court found the signature quota to contest elections unconstitutional, ruling 1 000 signatures were sufficient. But the Independent Candidates Association failed to convince the Apex court that the 200/200 split in the Electoral Amendment Act - which governs the threshold for seats in the National Assembly and provincial legislatures is unconstitutional. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Michael Louis, Chairperson of the One South Africa Movement (OSA)

The Gauteng Liquor Traders Association is calling for the rejection of the Tobacco Bill. The Association says the Bill will cause great harm to small business in the township economy. The Bill proposes a total ban on the display of all tobacco products, a ban on vending machines and a ban on the sale of single cigarettes, or 'loose draws'. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Jongikhaya Kraai, Spokesperson for the Gauteng Liquor Traders Association

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

Community leaders in Diepsloot are calling for members of the community to work with police and not take the law into their own hands. The call comes after seven young men accused of criminal activities in the area were burnt to death over the weekend. The leaders say vigilantism needs to stop as it may affect innocent people. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Sicelo Shezi, Community Leader, Activist and Chairperson of the Young Empowerment Organisation in Diepsloot

Police in the North West province have arrested a 29 year old woman for registering a false rape case against her former boyfriend. Police say Ayanda Jim claimed that the man had raped her but later confessed that she had lied. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to North West Police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone

The Constitutional Court will today deliver Judgement on challenges to the Electoral Amendment Act. The new Act - Signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa allows independent candidates to stand in provincial and national elections next year. The Apex court heard arguments on the matter in August by independent candidates seeking to contest next year's election. The 2024 election will be the first time independent candidates can run for office. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Lukhona Mnguni, head of policy and research at the Rivonia Circle

The South African Communist Party, SACP has reiterated its call for the reconfiguration of the Tripartite Alliance ahead of next year's elections. The party was briefing the media at the weekend on outcomes of its Central Executive meeting. The SACP says next year's national and provincial elections should be contested within a preferred framework of a reconfigured alliance. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SACP Spokesperson and Secretary for Policy and Research, Dr. Alex Mashilo

The Border Management Authority is investigating why 443 children were being trafficked through the Beitbridge border without guardians. Over the weekend 42 buses carrying 443 minors under the age of 8 were intercepted whilst trying to traffic the children into South Africa. The Authority is currently trying to ascertain where the minors were being trafficked to and for what purpose. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Border Management Authority Commissioner, Dr. Michael Masiapato

The family of one of the seven mob justice victims killed in Diepsloot over the weekend say he was not a criminal. It's alleged the suspects were terrorising the community with various crimes. Talent Moyo was among the people killed by community members in Diepsloot. His aunt Sibonginkosi Moyo, who is in Zimbabwe told our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri, that she feels her nephew was merely targeted for being Zimbabwean...

Essential services will now be exempted from loadshedding. This after a Pretoria High Court ordered Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa and Eskom to prevent loadshedding at certain public institutions such as schools, healthcare facilities and police stations among others. Earlier this year, Action SA and various political parties took government to court to ensure public institutions were exempt from power cuts. President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is working on easing the burden of rolling black outs on essential services. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

As the country continues to observe the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign, it's been reported that in South Africa, about 34% of reported common assault cases this year are linked to domestic violence, highlighting the ongoing issue of gender-based violence in the country. Somila Gogoba, Team Leader at Milaw Legal, spoke to Elvis Presslin to shed light on the hidden crisis of financial abuse among middle-class women in the country, in the current economic climate...

A senior Hamas delegation is in South Africa to attend the fifth global convention of Solidarity with Palestine. Three Hamas leaders; Dr. Basem Naim, Dr. Khaled Qaddoumi and Emad Saber are in the country to attend the three-day event, which starts this Saturday In Johannesburg. Meanwhile, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says the government has nothing to do with the presence of Hamas at the conference. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Zev Krengel, Vice President of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, who have condemned the visit

The Gauteng Health department says there are discrepancies in City Power's billing system for the province's hospitals. This after City Power threatened to disconnect power to a number of Johannesburg hospitals. The power utility says Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Baragwanath Hospital collectively owe the entity more than R40 million. The department says they have serviced most of the outstanding debt. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Jack Bloom, DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC

The 1st of December marks World Aids Day. The day is observed annually, dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, commemorating those who have lost their lives to the virus, and showing support for those living with HIV. This as data has recently emerged from the Human Sciences Research Council 2022 South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence, Behaviour and Communication Survey, indicating that KwaZulu-Natal has the highest percentage of people with a viral load suppression among those living with HIV in South Africa. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Rev. Zwo Nevhutalu, Executive Manager for Stakeholder Relations and Campaigns at the South African National Aids Council (SANAC)...

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Special Investing Unit says those found guilty of looting millions from the Road Accident Fund risk being disbarred or losing their licenses. The unit is probing over 100 law firms, including sheriffs for road accident duplicate payments. The SIU is also looking into ambulances and doctors who may be involved in illegal activities with regards to RAF claims. To further discuss Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

The leadership of the Economic Freedom Fighters in Limpopo says it has met with the school management of Hoërskool Ben Vorster following racist utterances by a student at the school, Erhard Vorster. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Mopani regional Chairperson Simon Mangena 

The passing of the National Health Insurance, NHI Bill by the National Council of Provinces, NCOP has been moved to next week. The NHI Bill seeks to achieve universal health coverage for all South Africans. However, those opposed to the Bill in its current form feel its not in the best interest of patients and the role of private medical schemes. The debate and vote on the NHI Bill was deferred to next week Wednesday without any explanation given. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Nicholas Crisp, Deputy Director-General in the Department of Health

Cabinet members were in discussions last night to consider the approval of the National Logistics Roadmap. The roadmap seeks to address challenges facing the freight and logistics sector. This as state-owned enterprise Transnet struggles with increased congestion and delays at its ports. To discuss this matter further, Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Shadow Minister of Public Enterprise, Dr. Mimmy Gondwe

The Democratic Alliance will by challenging Floyd Brink reappoint as Johannesburg's City manager. Brink was reappointed yesterday after an in-committee report was tabled at a council meeting. This after a court found his appointment as city manager unconstitutional, unlawful and invalid. DA caucus leader Belinda Echeozonjoku told our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri the party will challenge Brink's reappointment in court and call for the dissolution of the Joburg council today

Civil rights organisation AfriForum is demanding the removal of a BBBEE status as a condition for water use licence applications. The Department of Water and Sanitation's new transformation water license regulations requires new applicants to allocate shares of up to 75% to Black South Africans for such a licences to be granted. Afriforum says new applications online are not able to be processed if applicants lack a BBBE status. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to AfriForum's Advisor for Environmental Affairs, Marais de Vaal

Gauteng Finance MEC, Jacob Mamabolo has emphasised that the R13-billion required from the province to settle the e-toll debt presents a major risk to the province's fiscus. Mamabolo says the province will be approaching the national government to discuss a possible long-term payment arrangement to bring the matter to finality.  He says an agreement with the national government should result in the shutting down of the gantries and repurposing them for security and crime prevention initiatives. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng Finance MEC, Jacob Mamabolo and ActionSA Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, Funzi Ngobeni 

Thousands of jobs are at risk in the mining, metal and engineering sector as companies struggle to stay afloat. The National Union of Mineworkers, NUM estimates 10,000 job losses to the industry by January next year. While steel producer ArcelorMittal South Africa is set to shed 3 500 jobs at its Newcastle and Vereeniging operations. To examine the knock-on economic effect of retrenchments, Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Jannie Rossouw, a visiting Professor at the Wits Business School

The National Union of Mineworkers, NUM say there is a possibility of 10 000 mineworkers being retrenched by January next year. The union says mining companies have issued retrenchments notices in recent months in the gold and platinum sectors. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to NUM's Media Officer, Luphert Chilwane

Different organisations are today expected to participate in pro-Palestinian marches as part of International Solidarity Day with Palestine. The organisations are calling for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas citing the violation of human rights in the ongoing conflict. Last week Parliament voted in favour of a motion to close the Israeli embassy in Pretoria and to suspended all diplomatic ties with Israel. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Director of Africa4Palestine, Muhammed Desai

Police in KwaZulu-Natal have launched a manhunt for at least five suspects who shot and killed four family members and injured another in Mfume, Amanzimtoti the early hours of Monday. This is a second incident at the same household in a space of a year. In 2022 the mother of house sustained gunshot wounds during a shooting, and the matter is still under investigation. Police are appealing to anyone who might have knowledge regarding the whereabouts of the suspects or information that can assist in the investigation. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda

Over 100 miners are reportedly trapped underground at an Impala Platinum mine in the North West. The Incident allegedly occurred last night. Emergency personnel are currently at the scene trying to rescue the trapped workers. For the latest Elvis Presslin spoke to Johan Theron, Spokesperson for Impala Platinum (Implats)

The National Assembly will today vote on whether to suspend former Transport Minister Dipuo Peters for her alleged role in state capture at Prasa. This after Parliament's Joint Committee on Ethics and Members Interest found she breached the ethics code and recommended the sanction. United Behind lodged a complaint last year alleging Peters dismissed the Prasa board after it uncovered R14 billion in irregular expenditure and initiated investigations into corruption at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Zukiswa Fokazi, Organizer for civil society group Unite Behind...

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies have welcomed the release of two South Africans who were held hostage by Hamas. Sixty-four-year-old Aviva Siegel and 79-year-old Channah Peri were taken hostage when Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack on Israel in October. Both women were released during a truce between Israel and Hamas in the ongoing conflict. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Wendy Kahn, National Director of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

Human Rights Watch say there is no political will to address the surge in alleged ethnically-driven killings in the Darfur region of Sudan. Hundreds of Masalit civilians were reportedly targeted, tortured, raped and killed earlier this month in Ardamata town, West Darfur by the Rapid Support Forces. The paramilitary group which is at war with the Sudanese army, has been accused of committing human rights violations. Horn of Africa director at Human Rights Watch, Laetitia Bader spoke to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri, about the trends in the latest episode of ethnically targeted killings against Massalit civilians...

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has over the weekend launched the 16-days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign in Mpumalanga. Meanwhile, the mental health of South African men needs attention, says Limpopo Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba.  Ramathuba says she believes the mental health of the country's men is an important aspect of the battle against gender-based violence. Elvis Presslin spoke to Marguerite Holtzhausen- Executive Director of The Trauma Centre for Survivors of Violence and Torture Trust

The ANC could lose its assets after another court defeat in a multi-million-rand elections campaign dispute. This after the Supreme Court of Appeal upheld a decision by the Gauteng High Court which found the ANC liable for over R100 million for election banners. KwaZulu-Natal branding company Ezulweni Investments applied to seize assets worth more than R102m from the ANC after the party failed to pay the company for its 2019 general election campaign materials. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Ezulweni attorney, Shafique Sarlie

DA Leader John Steenhuisen will today conduct an aerial oversight inspection of the Durban port, In KwaZulu Natal to assess the logistics crisis. The visit comes after Transnet experienced a backlog of over 70,000 containers that needed to be offloaded. At Richards Bay, the port terminal suspended the receiving of goods due to truck congestion. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Christopher Pappas, the Mayor of uMngeni Municipality and DA KZN Premier candidate

Energy analyst Chris Yelland says loadshedding will play a major factor in next year's general elections if higher stages of power cuts persist. This after Eskom implemented stage 6 load shedding over the weekend due to the heatwave, a shortage of generating capacity and emergency reserve. Speaking to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri, Yelland outlined how Eskom's challenges will have a political bearing on next year's election...

Police in Mpumalanga have urged parents and guardians to be vigilant following a string of rapes against minors in Vosman. The incidents date back from March this year, when a seven year old victim was abducted and raped, according to local authorities. The police say from there on, a number of similar incidents involving victims aged between seven and thirteen were reported. This, as Deputy President, Paul Mashatile officially launched the 16 Days of Activism campaign for No Violence Against Women and Children in that province. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala... 

The Department of Social Development will today lead a march against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in Pretoria. The walk comes right after a Grade 6 pupil Sibusiso Mbatha, at Khahlekile Primary School in Thokoza committed suicide due to being bullied about his sexuality. To discuss more about homophobia and the walk Elvis Presslin spoke to Deputy Chairperson of the South African National Aids Council, Steve Letsike

Parliament's Powers and Privileges Committee will today hold a hearing into former Minister Mosebenzi Zwane's failure to appear before the House to apologize for undeclared state capture and Gupta-related benefits. In May the National Assembly adopted findings of Parliament's Joint Committee on Ethics and Members' Interests that Zwane failed to disclose the benefits he received from the controversial Gupta family. The ANC MP was instructed by the Committee to issue a public apology but Zwane absconded from a parliamentary sitting to do so. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to our Parliamentary reporter, Mercedes Besent

Oscar Pistorius will know his fate at his second parole hearing today. The former Paralympic athlete and convicted murderer made an application for parole in March this year but was denied. Pistorius will now appear before the Kgosi Mampuru parole board in Pretoria for his second attempt to be release. He was sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison in 2017 for killing his then girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine's Day. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Steenkamp family lawyer, Tania Koen...

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Democratic Alliance has laid a complaint against President Cyril Ramaphosa with the South African Human Rights Commission. The DA says Ramaphosa is responsible for the starvation of almost five million of South Africa's children. 4.8 million of the country's 20 million children are starving, this according to latest statistics from the State of the South African Child Report, by the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA National Spokesperson, Werner Horn

The Reserve bank's monetary policy committee is expected to announce its decision on interest rates this afternoon.  This, as data released by Statistics South Africa shows that consumers continue to buckle under the pressure of high prices as inflation increased on average by 0, 9-percent in October.  The annual consumer price inflation (CPI) increased for the third consecutive month from 5,4-percent in September, to 5,9-percent in October 2023. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Frank Blackmore, Lead Economist at KPMG South Africa...

Should Transnet be placed under business rescue? Well NT55 Investments, operator of the Port of Gauteng seems to think so. This as the state-owned logistics company struggles with backlog issues with more than 70 000 containers anchored at the Port of Durban. Transnet says the congestion may be cleared by the end of February next year. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Sibusiso Nduna, a Business Rescue Practitioner

The South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Free State Province says it disagrees with ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula after he ordered the suspension of the mayor of Kopanong Local Municipality - Xolani Tseletsele. Mbalula directed the immediate recall of Tseletsele as Mayor and suspension of his ANC membership, after a video went viral of Tseletsele threatening a resident of Jagersfontein in the presence of his children. It is believed the man had posted a comment on social media about potholes in the town. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SACP Free State Provincial Secretary Bhekie Stofile

Higher Education Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande had dismissed calls for the scrapping of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme and rather distribute funds directly to higher institutions of learning. NSFAS has been rocked by a series of scandals including leadership instability and the irregular awarding of four fintech companies to disburse student allowances. Funding applications for the 2024 academic year opened yesterday and will close at the end of January next year. Nzimande briefed the media in Pretoria on applications. To discuss the challenges that students still face Elvis Presslin spoke to president of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Student Command, Sihle Lonzi 

The National Assembly has voted in favour of a motion by the Economic Freedom Fighters for government to shutdown Israeli Embassy in South Africa, pending a ceasefire as the war ranges on between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The motion was passed following an amendment by the African National Congress which resulted vote supported by 248 members of parliament from the EFF, ANC, Al Jama ah, NFP, ATM and the PAC. The DA, ACDP, FF-PLUS and  IFP rejected the amendments and the motion. For some reaction Elvis Presslin spoke to Freedom Front Plus Chief Whip Dr Corne Mulder and Research Associate at the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg, Kwezi Mngibisa

Former Eskom CEO, Matshela Koko has accused the state of pursuing what he calls a hate crime against him and his family. Koko's remarks follow a decision by the Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court which struck the corruption case against him and 18 co-accused off the roll on Tuesday afternoon. The court found that there have been unreasonable delays in the case involving alleged corruption to the tune of over R2 billion in the construction of the Kusile Power Station, outside Emalahleni in Mpumalanga. Speaking with members of the media following the court's decision, Koko further accused the state of taking South Africans for a ride. The National Prosecuting Authority says the ruling made by the Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has no bearing on the merits of the case except procedures. For reaction into the court's decision, Elvis Presslin spoke to Deputy Chief Executive of Labour Relations at Trade Union Solidarity, Deon Reyneke

National Treasury has announced that the government of South Africa has signed loan agreements with the World Bank, the German government and the African Development Bank. According to a statement released by the department, the loans will be provided below market rates in order to support South Africa's just Energy Transition. The World Bank is set to provide a R1-Billion loan for a duration of 15 years, the German government will loan the country half a billion euros for 12 years, with the African Development Bank extending a 300-thousand US Dollar loan over a period of 12 years. For a look at what the loans mean for South Africa moving forward, Elvis Presslin spoke to Head of Multi Asset Strategies at Aluwani Partners, Patrick Mathidi... 

The South African human rights NGO Africa4Palestine has welcomed Israel's decision to recall its ambassador to South Africa for consultations. This ahead of a parliamentary motion calling for the Israeli embassy in South Africa to be closed. The Israeli Foreign Ministry recalled its Ambassador Eli Belotserkovsky to Jerusalem for consultations due to recent comments from South Africa on the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zev Krengel, Vice President of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies and Professor Ricky Mukonza, Associate Professor of Public Affairs in the Department of Public Management at the Tshwane University of Technology

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) in KwaZulu-Natal will today hold a picket outside the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate High Court. They are aggrieved about the continued killings of South African Police Service officers. In the latest incident in the province, two police officers were killed in a shopping mall robbery at the weekend. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to POPCRU spokesperson Richard Mamabolo

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 University of Fort Hare director will today join nine other murder suspects In the dock, at the Alice Magistrates' court in the Eastern Cape. The Institution's Director for Investigations and Vetting Services was arrested last week and appeared before the same court. He has been added as the tenth accused in the spate of killings of Fort Hare employees. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to National police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe

Public Interest South Africa says harsher punitive measures need to be imposed against senior executives of banks that manipulate the bank exchange rate. London-based Standard Chartered Bank is among 28 local and international banks accused by the Competition Commission of manipulating the RAND/DOLLAR exchange rate between 2007 and 2018. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Public Interest SA spokesperson Tebogo Khaas

The Electoral Commission will today host a media briefing on the outcome of the first voter registration weekend. The first registration weekend saw various voter registration stations being affected by service delivery protests in some parts of the country. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to IEC Commissioner Janet Love and a professor of Political Science at Unisa, Professor Dirk Kotze

Two voter registration centres were disrupted in Soweto, Johannesburg following protests over electricity. This as the IEC conducted its voter registration at the weekend. Last week, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi promised Soweto residents who have not had electricity due to the power crisis in that area, that they will soon have lights. Lesufi was speaking at the Kopanong Community Hall where he met with residents from Dobsonville, Mndeni and Zola to outline the provincial government's energy response plan. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Trevor Ngwane, Chairperson of the United Front and former leader of the Soweto electricity crisis committee

Several voter registration stations in Mpumalanga were disrupted after disgruntled residents staged protests over the appointment of teachers as Voter Registration Agents. The protests took place over the weekend as the Independent Electoral Commission was registering citizens to vote in next year's general elections. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to IEC Mpumalanga Stakeholder-Liason and Communication, Thanduxolo Mchembeni

A woman alleged to be behind the murders of her relatives to benefit from insurance claims will appear in the Mmabatho Magistrate's court, in the North West today. The 49-year-old suspect was arrested in Centurion north of Pretoria yesterday. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to National police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Communication Workers Union, CWU has declared a wage dispute against the SABC at the CCMA. The dispute comes after the SABC rejected a revised wage offer of 9% brought forward by CWU. The union has accused the SABC of not having any regard for ground workers as they have instead rewarded middle management with 5% and executive staff with 3% wage increases. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Nathen Bowers, National Bargaining Coordinator for the Communication Workers' Union, CWU

Health experts say only a concerted multi-disciplinary collaboration and research will stem the tide of diabetes and diabetes-linked cardiovascular disease (CVD)They say diabetes linked Cardiovascular disease is currently the leading cause of death locally and worldwide, claiming 17,9 million lives a year. They also say globally, CVD takes more lives than TB, HIV and malaria combined, while 215 South Africans killed by CVD every day. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Cardiologist and Former President of the SA Heart Association, Dr. David Jankelow

The Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum says South Africa's decision to refer Israel to the International Criminal Court, ICC is futile, misinformed and bias. This after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the government submitted a referral to the ICC to investigate Israel's attacks on continued bombardment of Gaza. Speaking to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri, Hassan-Nahoum says South Africa's decision speaks volume to the bias the country's government has had against Israel in its war against Hamas and Elvis Presslin spoke to Associate Professor of Public Affairs in the Department of Public Management at the Tshwane University of Technology, Professor Ricky Mukonza

Another bank reached a settlement with the Competition Commission for colluding in currency trades to manipulate the value of the rand-dollar exchange rate. Standard Chartered joined Citibank in a settlement with the local competition authorities. Yesterday, the Commission reached a settlement agreement with the UK-based, Standard Chartered to pay an administrative penalty of R42.7 million.  Standard Chartered is the second bank to reach a settlement agreement with the commission. Last year the US based Citibank paid a R69 million fine. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC Economics Editor, Tshepo Mongoai to explain in layman's term what currency manipulation is and what it entails for the affected countries

Some 300 mine workers are on strike at the Blyvoor Gold mine in Carletonville, on the Westrand. The workers are unhappy that the mining company would not be able to give them their 13th cheque and other allowances. They also want the mine to grant other unions rights to represent them. The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in the Carletonville region says it does not represent any workers at the mine, as currently, another labour union has exclusive rights to represent workers. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Oupa-Maditse Tshose, NUM Carletonville regional Treasure

The Media Development & Diversity Agency (MDDA) will today conclude its three-day Elections Coverage training for community media journalists in preparation for the upcoming 2024 National Elections. The training, held in Johannesburg, is aimed at capacitating community media to improve their coverage of elections and related issues. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to MDDA Acting Executive Manager Research and Capacity Building Lethabo Dibetso

Questions have been raised around the legality of the Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens. Experts say Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi erred by appointing and deploying under trained 6,000 peace officers to combat crime across the province without legal authorisation. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mark Heywood, Editor of Maverick Citizen, who has written extensively and conducted investigations on the crime wardens...

The Department of Correctional Services says it has a handle on the Diphtheria outbreak at the Pollsmoor Correctional facility in Cape Town. The national commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, says an epidemiological investigation is underway to determine how and where the disease was contracted, which includes contact tracing. A 19 year old detainee died nearly 10 days ago after testing positive for the highly contagious bacterial infection. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Correctional Services Spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo

Transport unions SATAWU and UNTU have threatened a full blown strike if the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, Prasa does not meet its wage demands. The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union, Satawu and the United National Transport Union, Untu plan to lodge a labour dispute with the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration, CCMA to compel the state-owned enterprise to pay the 5% wage increase. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to UNTU President, Steven Leshabane.

Congress of the People (COPE) says its Speaker in the City of Johannesburg, Colleen Makhubele ignored party lines when she became the chairperson of the South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA). Makhubele was seen in pictures of a new organisation which COPE said was in breach of the party' constitution. She reportedly encouraged South Africans to vote in her capacity as Chairperson of the South African Rainbow Alliance at the weekend. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to COPE's National Chairperson Teboho Loate

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

ActionSA in KwaZulu-Natal is calling for Investigations after two suspects were arrested with stolen street lights from the eThekwini Municipality. Two Mozambican nationals were caught by Border Management Authority at the Kosi Bay port of entry, in northern KZN after they were found in possession of 52 municipal street lights worth an estimated R1.9 million. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to SA Kwazulu-Natal Chairperson, Zwakele Mncwango

The government hopes the publication of the white paper on citizenship, immigration, and refugee legislation will address the migration crisis in the country. It intends to overhaul the migration system urgently. This due to the current migration legislation which the government says is weak, unworkable, and is being exploited and abused by criminal syndicates. The cabinet approved the White Paper on Wednesday for public comments. Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi briefed the media in Pretoria on the proposals on Sunday. Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Simba Chitando, a Human rights lawyer

A Cape Peninsula University of Technology student is fighting for her life in hospital following a brutal stabbing by her alleged partner. The 26-year-old woman is seen In a viral video being repeatedly stabbed while lying on the floor in a pool of blood. The incident took place at a private student residence in Belhar. The suspect was arrested and is currently under police guard in hospital after being attacked by students who witnessed the incident. To look into the prevalence of extreme violence in South Africa, Elvis Presslin spoke to hashtag Not In My Name President, Siya Jentile...

The Gauteng Health Department says it is investigating circumstances around the illegal disposal of medical waste items on a field in Ormonde, South of Johannesburg. The department was made aware of the illegal disposal on Saturday afternoon, when members of a local community watch structure came across the waste material while patrolling the area. To look into the issue of people posing as health professionals Elvis Presslin spoke to the Spokesperson for the Gauteng Health Department, Motalatale Modiba...

It seems that EFF leader, Julius Malema's address in Kenya last week ruffled some feathers. Malema attacked President William Ruto on a number of issues, including a failure to deliver on election promises. Kenya's government has reacted angrily to Malema's comments. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua appealed to Malema and other visitors to respect the leaders of their host countries. Gachagua noted that while he was in South Africa in December, there was electricity rationing for seven hours, but that as a country that did not come under discussion. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr David Matsanga, a political analyst who agrees with the Kenyan government...

The South African National Defence Union (SANDU) has welcomed the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa that he has authorised the deployed 3,300 soldiers to assist police in the fight against illegal mining.  The presidency says Ramaphosa set out the deployment including the cost of approximately R490-million to the National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Amos Masondo. For more on this we are joined  by National Secretary for SANDU, Advocate Pikkie Greeff  

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is threatening legal action against Thuja holdings CEO, Mthunzi Mdwaba following allegations of bribery against him. Mdwaba accused Godongwana and other top ANC officials of soliciting a R500 million bribe from a dodgy R5 billion Job creation project with the Unemployment Insurance Fund, UIF.  Minister Godongwana has given Mdwaba 7 days to publicly withdraw his allegations or face legal action. ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula who was also fingered in the allegations has since opened a case against Mdwaba. For more on this, we spoke to ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri.

Chief Justice Raymond Zondo says disbanding the Scorpions was the "worst decision ever" in the fight against corruption. Zondo was speaking at the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council's national dialogue in Boksburg, Johannesburg. The Scorpions, an elite crimefighters unit was established by former President Thabo Mbeki in 1999 to fight high-profile corruption cases. The Unit was eventually disbanded in 2009 by former President Jacob Zuma. Zondo says the Scorpions played a key role in fighting against corruption. Zondo has also called for corruption whistleblowers to be incentivised. To discuss this further we spoke to Executive Director at Corruption Watch, Karam Singh...

The Health Department has assured the public that a Diphtheria outbreak at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre in Cape Town, is under control. This follows the death of a 19-year-old inmate more than a week ago. Health Department spokesperson, Foster Mohale, says public health measures were undertaken to contain the outbreak. 

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories wtih Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 third suspect arrested in connection for theft on President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm is expected to appear in the Bela Bela Magistrate's Court today. The suspect's arrest follows that of two other suspects; Imanuwela David and Froliana Joseph. The trio are accused of stealing foreign currency from Ramaphosa's farm in Limpopo in February 2020. For more on this we spoke to Limpopo NPA spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi...

The African Council of Hawkers and Informal Businesses says government's decision to inspect and audit foreign spaza shops has come too late. This follows concerns over the recent surge in food poisoning incidents among children. The council says the damage has already been done to the local economy. It says government should work with traditional authorities to root out the manufacturing and sale of dangerous food and goods by spaza shops. To discuss this further we spoke President of the African Council of Hawkers and Informal Businesses, Lawrence Mavundla.    

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), in KwaZulu-Natal is calling for a motion of no confidence in eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda. This follows the City's failure to spend a conditional grant from national treasury of one-point two billion rand for disaster recovery projects. The IFP in the Durban Metro say Kaunda must resign or face a motion of no-confidence in the metro council. For more on this we spoke to eThekwini EFF Chairperson and Caucus leader, Themba Mvubu.

More than 20 small-scale famers in Thaba Nchu in the Free State province, are demanding 22 million rand that they say was promised to them by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. The farmers allege that they never received the funds after they were identified as beneficiaries for assistance and support. They say their efforts to engage with the department have yielded no results. For some insights on this story we spoke to Dr. Lennox Mtshagi, who is a farmer and President of the Black Farmers Association of South Africa.

Joburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda says he is studying a court judgment which nullified the appointment of City Manager Floyd Brink. The High court yesterday ruled Brink's appointment unlawful. The Democratic Alliance challenged Brink's appointment earlier this year claiming due process was not followed. For more on this had Prince Mlimandlela Ndamase, Communications Advisor to Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda joining us on the line

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today deliver the keynote address at the opening session of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council's National Dialogue on building a corruption-free South Africa. The Council appointed by the President last year, is a multi-sectoral partnership to oversee the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy.The two-day dialogue will take place at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Johannesburg. For more on this, we're joined on the line by Nkosana Dolopi, a members of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Counci

Police are still searching for suspects who robbed Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga and her bodyguards on the N3 on Monday. The Minister and her protectors were robbed at gun-point after her vehicle stopped on the N3 highway between Heidelberg and Vosloorus to change a burst tyre. The criminals stole laptops, a phone and weapons from the Minister's bodyguards. To further discuss this further, we caught up with the Forensic investigator Chad Thomas, from IRS Forensic Investigations

The month of November marks Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM). The theme for this year is 'Consolidate and Accelerate Rights of Persons with Disabilities into the Future'.  South Africa joins the rest of the world in commemorating the Awareness Month annually between 3 November and 3 December. Elvis Presslin spoke to the Vice President of Blind SA, Christo de Klerk

Two suspects arrested in connection with the theft at President Cyril Ramaphosa's PhalaPhala farm will appear in the Bela Bela Magistrates court today. One suspect was arrested in Rustenburg on Sunday while the second suspect was apprehended in Bela Bela yesterday. An undisclosed amount of foreign currency allegedly hidden under a couch were stolen in 2020 on Ramaphosa's Limpopo farm. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Hawks Spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale

The Democratic Alliance says Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi must account to Parliament on the dodgy 5-billion-rand Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) deal. The party has written to the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour requesting that Minister Nxesi appear before the committee. The DA want the minister to account for the dodgy job creation deal between Thuja Capital and the UIF. This follows allegations made by Thuja Capital CEO Mthunzi Mdwaba, who claims corrupt Ministers demanded a 10% bribe to make the deal successful. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Labour Lawyer and Labour Spokesperson for the Democratic Alliance, Michael Bagraim

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories wtih Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 South African Jewish Board of Deputies has called for an urgent meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa over cabinet's decision to withdraw all its diplomats in Tel Aviv. This amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshaveni announced Cabinet decided that South Africa's diplomats in Isreal be withdrawn for further consultation on the situation in Gaza. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Wendy Kahn, National Director of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies

With the energy crisis in South Africa, many people have become accustomed to finding alternative ways to source energy from solar panels and generators. However, while many South Africans have become accustomed to the realities of load shedding, many are still concerned and skeptical of alternative modes of mobility. Audi South Africa says the prospect of electric vehicle (EV) ownership and adoption should not become intimidating due to load-shedding. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Head of Product, Marketing and PR for Audi South Africa, Tarryn Knight

DA leader, John Steenhuisen says internal polls shows, that the 8 party coalition - can garner 50% of the votes in KwaZulu-Natal in next year's elections. Speaking at the DA's first 2024 election campaign rally, Steenhuisen says it is within the coalition's reach to win the national election. This as 3 independent polls put the ANC's support nationally between 41 and 45%. The DA kicked off their election campaign in Durban, ahead of the first voter registration weekend, in two weeks' time. Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst, Sandile Swana on this....

Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says plans are at an advanced stage to release the long awaited Integrated Resource Plan. Ramokgopa was briefing the public on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan. He says the electricity infrastructure plan which speaks to multiple sources of energy will help mitigate against load shedding and safeguard the country's economy. This comes amid concerns over the impact of load shedding on matriculants writing their final exams. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Grade 12 learner Siphelele Mbele who has been adversely affected by load shedding

The Transformation Alliance (TTA) has welcomed the Public Protector's report on the Hammanskraal water crisis. Public Protector, Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka found that the City of Tshwane failed to supply Hammanskraal residents with clean water. The TTA says it lodged a complaint with the Public Protector last month, against the City of Tshwane Municipality following an admission by the City's Councillor that it was indeed the municipality's fault that 29 people in Hammanskraal died due to a cholera outbreak early this year.  Elvis Presslin spoke to Transformation Alliance National Chairperson Tlhogi Moseki

Democratic Alliance, DA shadow Public Enterprises Minister Ghaleb Cachalia has been removed from the party's shadow Cabinet, over his views on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Cachalia tweeted that he "will not be silenced" and that "Israel is committing genocide". The decision to remove Cachalia was communicated through a leaked letter from DA leader John Steenhuisen. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Political analyst, Professor Andre Duvenage

Former University of Cape Town, UCT Vice-Chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng is considering legal action following a damning report by the University against her. The report found Phakeng and Council chairperson, Babalwa Ngonyama, guilty of serious governance failures at the institution. Professor Phakeng says she will study the report further with her legal team as it is inaccurate and potentially damaging to her reputation. For reaction to the report Elvis Presslin spoke to Ntokozo Mahlangu, spokesperson for the EFF Student Command in the Western Cape

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

Gold One Mine has reportedly suspended 34 mineworkers who held 500 fellow colleagues hostage underground in the East Rand last week. The miners were suspended earlier this week and will face internal disciplinary proceedings. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Gold One Mine Head of Legal, Ziyaad Hassam

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has announced additional funding to frontline sectors such as Health, Education and Police Services. Godongwana tabled the 2023 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) yesterday.  Funding of R24 billion this year and R74 billion over the medium term will be used to fund the 2023/24 wage increase and the associated carry- through costs in these sectors. For a reaction to the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, Elvis Presslin spoke to Matshidiso Lencoasa, a budget researcher at Section27

South Africa will host the annual African Growth and Opportunity Act, AGOA Forum in Nasrec, Johannesburg. AGOA is an American legislation that allows Sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to U.S. markets. More than 2,000 delegates are expected to attend the Forum. South Africa's non-alignment role in the Ukraine-Russia war and its solidarity with Palestine in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has created uncertainty on whether the US will include South Africa in Agoa's extension and renewal. For more on this, Elvis Presslin was joined in studio by Mr. David S. Feldmann, a Mission Spokesperson at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria

Lobby group AfriForum says its legal team is investigating the possibility of appealing a High Court decision to dismiss its application challenging the expiry of driving licence cards. Afriforum sought to review the constitutionality of the requirements to renew a driver's licence card every five years. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Afriforum Campaigns Officer, Louis Boshoff

Members of the Muslim Judicial Council in Cape Town is today expected to march to Parliament in support of the Palestinian struggle for freedom. Various political and union formations including Cosatu, the ANC and PAC will be joining the march to hand over a memorandum requesting the South African government to intervene to stop the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip. This follows an attack by Hamas on Israeli territory on the seventh of October. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Sheigh Ebrahim Gabriels who is with the Muslim Judicial Council

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana will today table the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement in the National Assembly. The mini-budget sets government policy goals, priorities and projects the fiscal framework over the next three years by outlining spending and revenue estimates. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Matthew Parks, Acting National Spokesperson and Parliamentary Coordinator for COSATU and Professor Jannie Rossouw, a visiting Professor at the Wits Business School

The Gauteng Department of Community Safety MEC, Faith Mazibuko will today hold a meeting with Faith-based Organisations following a recent spate of armed robberies targeted at places of worship. Last month, Pastor Dwayne Gordon was fatally shot at the Eagles Christian Centre and three other congregants injured when a gang of armed men stormed the church and opened fire in Newlands, Johannesburg. To discuss this issue further Elvis Presslin spoke to Bishop Malusi Mpumlwana, General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches

The Public Servants Association, PSA and the State Information Technology Agency, SITA will today sign a wage agreement in Erasmusloof, Pretoria. PSA-affiliated workers downed tools at SITA offices countrywide, over a wage dispute. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to PSA Chief Negotiator, Zamani Dladla

Bogus Doctor Matthew Lani has been arrested by security personnel at the Helen Joseph hospital in Auckland Park, Johannesburg and will appear in court today. Lani will appear on a charge of impersonating a doctor. Lani was caught disguised in a hoodie and wearing a surgical mask with a stethoscope around his neck. Lani had also previously entered the same facility to create misleading content under the pretense that he was a qualified doctor. To look into the issue of people posing as health professionals Elvis Presslin spoke to the Spokesperson for the Gauteng Health Department, Motalatale Modiba

The Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF have rejected President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement of a public holiday in celebration of the Springboks win. Ramaphosa declared the 15th of December a public holiday in honour of the achievements by South Africa's sports men and women - and as a tribute to the country's unity. The President made the announcement last night during his national address. Meanwhile, Public Interest lawyer Richard Spoor says the President cannot unilaterally declare a public holiday. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mr. Spoor to elaborate further on his sentiments

The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) says it expects increased budget deficit and government debt levels, given reduced tax revenue and expenditure overruns, when Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana tables his Medium Term Budget Policy Statement tomorrow. The party says the only long-term solution to this debt spiral is a rejuvenated economy, premised upon stabile energy provision and a vastly improved logistics network. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to ACDP Parliamentary Whip and spokesperson on finance, Steve Swart and SAFTU spokesperson, Trevor Shaku

Elvis Presslin looks at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 EFF in Kwa-Zulu-Natal has reacted to the killing of Inkosi Siphamandla Khumalo and his wife yesterday by saying the increasing number of political killings in the province is of concern and it believes political intolerance will affect the elections next year. Khumalo was a member of the traditional institutional structures, including the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa. Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department has condemned the killing of Inkosi Siphamandla Khumalo.  Elvis Presslin spoke to Sboniso Mngadi the Spokesperson for the KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department...

Grade 12s from all schools across the country will write their first language papers today. Over 800,000 candidates, most full-time learners, will be taking the NSC exams this year. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshega has warned there will be no mercy for cheating learners. Elvis Presslin spoke to Basic Education Department Spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga...

The University of South Africa, Unisa is heading to court to challenge the decision by Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande to place the Institution under administration. Unisa was placed under administration following an Independent assessor's report which cited financial irregularities. The Institution says Nzimande's decision is premature as the issue of reviewing the Independent Assesor's report is still before court. The Minister has appointed well-known academic, Professor Ihron Rensburg as the university's administrator. Elvis Presslin spoke to Asive Dlanjwa, Spokesperson for the South African Union of Students...

South Africans are still in a state of euphoria following the recent triumph of the Springboks team at the World Rugby Cup in France. The Boks beat the All Blacks 12-11 by a solitary point in the finals at the weekend. Captain Siya Kolisi described the win as a symbol of hope and what diversity can do for the country. But how long will this sense of unity among South Africa's so-called "Rainbow Nation" last? And just how effective is the power of sport in uniting a nation in its diversity? Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent political analyst Dr Dale McKinley...

The Democratic Alliance, DA is calling on acting Eskom CEO, Calib Cassim to immediately rescind a multimillion-rand tender for a new company logo. The debt-ridden and cash-strapped state-owned entity reportedly issued a tender asking suppliers to provide services for the design of a new logo and the development of a new corporate identity. Elvis Presslin spoke to Ghaleb Cachalia, DA MP and Shadow Minister of Public Enterprises...

The ANC in the Free State will today march in solidarity with the people of Palestine. ANC members, its alliance partners and interfaith organisations are demanding an end to Israel's attacks on Gaza over the past weeks. The Israeli retaliation came after Hamas killed about 1-thousand 400 people in attacks on Israel. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Free State ANC provincial secretary, Polediso Motsoeneng

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today lead an oversight visit to Emfuleni Local municipality in Gauteng to assess progress and steps taken to improve service delivery. The municipality has faced difficulties in providing basic services such as water to residents. The embattled municipality endures frequent water shortages and poor water quality for an extended period of time. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Ms.Thembi Nkadimeng, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, COGTA

Magalies Water is warning residents of Tshwane of possible water cuts due to low levels at its Wallmansthal reservoir. The water supply entity say this is due to the growing water demand from customers amid the heatwave. Magalies says this has put a strain on the reservoir. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Magalies Water Spokesperson, David Magae..

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 South African Local Government Association, SALGA has concluded an international migration workshop to build consensus and unified approach in managing international migration. The workshop reviewed the impact of illegal immigration on local economies in borderline and inland municipalities from presentations that were done by the Metropolitan and District Mayors. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SALGA's Portfolio Head of Community Services and Inclusivity, Nozibele Makanda.

All remaining miners who were held hostage underground for days at Modder East Gold One mine in Springs, Johannesburg have resurfaced. This according to the mine's management. Over 500 mine workers were held underground since Sunday against their will. A labour dispute over union recognition between AMCU and NUM prompted the situation. The mine's Chief Executive Officer, Jon Hericourt confirmed to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri that all mineworkers who were held hostage have been released...

Action SA in KwaZulu Natal has welcomed the provincial government's decision to cancel hosting the South African Music Awards, SAMAs. The department of economic development, tourism and environmental affairs withdrew its controversial R20-million funding of the SAMAs. The Democratic Alliance and ActionSA had been opposed to plans by government to fund the event. ActionSA wrote to President Cyril Ramaphosa asking for his intervention to stop the event. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Action SA KwaZulu-Natal Chairperson, Zwakele Mncwango

Opposition parties will today march to parliament in protest against the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill, BELA. The parties say under the BELA Bill, the head of provincial education departments and MECs will ultimately decide what language is taught in your child's school and who is admitted to the school. They say one of the amendments in the bill is the Criminalizing parents who don't ensure their children are in school. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to ACDP Member of Parliament, Marie Sukers

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) CEO Andile Nongogo has been fired amid a R47-billion payments scandal. NSFAS officials revealed this at a briefing of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) that Nongogo has been axed. NSFAS revealed last week that a probe by law firm Werkmans Attorneys and Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi found that the fired Nongogo, had hand-picked four firms to pay around 1.1 million students their R1 650 monthly allowances directly and not through tertiary institutions, which had been the previous payment method. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Outa Chairperson, Wayne Duvenage.

Workers from Gold One mine in Springs, on Gauteng's East Rand, say they will forge ahead with the sit-in until management gives in to their demands. More than 500 mine workers are currently staging a sit-in underground in one of the mine-shafts, whilst dozens others are picketing at the entrance of the mine shaft. They are demanding that mining union AMCU be recognised at the mine. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Livhuwani Mammburu, the National spokesperson of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM)

Home Affairs Minister, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi has directed all municipalities to audit spaza shops owned by foreign nationals in their jurisdictions. Dr. Motsoaledi say this is part of their inter-governmental approach to respond to the public outcry about the quality of food sold at spaza shops. Recently, two children have died, while several learners fell ill after consuming products from spaza shops. Minister Motsoaledi attended a community engagement at Vaalwater, outside Modimolle in Limpopo. Elvis Presslin spoke to Sibusiso Sithole, a former tuckshop owner of Jobe's Foods in Diepkloof, In Soweto, who has welcomed the decision for all municipalities to audit spaza shops owned by foreign nationals in their jurisdictions

The Supreme Court of Appeal has dismissed an application by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, DIRCO to appeal an interdict preventing it from donating R50 million to Cuba. AfriForum interdicted the payment of funds to Cuba last year at the High Court in Pretoria. The Department says the funds were set aside to respond to Cuba's request for humanitarian aid. Afriforum is currently awaiting the final judgment to stop the donation completely. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Charné Mostert, campaign officer at AfriForum

The country's top business and public leaders will be meeting today to address the Future of Leadership in South Africa. The inaugural Future of Leadership Summit will bring together 100 plus top leadership voices from across South Africa to examine the key dimensions of co-creating the future of leadership. The summit comes as South Africa faces mass skills exodus with many graduates wanting to leave the country, crime and corruption, lack of job opportunities, failing infrastructure, and the rising cost of living. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Member of the Future Leader Forum, Sunil Geness

Over 500 mine workers are reportedly being held at the Gold One mine in Springs, Johannesburg. The National Union of Mineworkers, NUM says at least 543 of its members are being held hostage underground by allegedly heavily armed individuals since Sunday. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to NUM's national spokesperson Livhuwani Mammburu and Jeff Mphahlele, AMCU's General Secretary

The Independent Electoral Commission will officially launch the 2024 National and provincial elections today. The launch will focus on the final registrations, timelines and requirements ahead of the elections next year. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mawethu Mosery, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer for the IEC

85% of South Africa's Air Force fleet remain grounded due to a lack of funding and maintenance. This was revealed by Defence Minister Thandi Modise in a recent response to a question by the Democratic Alliance in parliament. DA MP Kobus Marais says the funding crisis affecting the South African Air and Defence Force leaves the nation vulnerable to security threats. Elvis Presslin asked Marais to elaborate further on his sentiments

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 African Unite Borders Bus Trucks Association (AUBBTA) is calling on the Department of Transport to make public the list of bus companies benefiting from government subsidies. The Association has accused government officials of misusing the subsidy for their own benefit. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Phumudzo Mukhwathi, Chairperson of AUBBTA

The City of Johannesburg will deploy patrollers to inspect and shut down spaza shops that are non-compliant with the City's by-laws. This comes amid reports of children who died or fell-ill after consuming food or snacks reportedly bought at spaza shops. Foreign-owned township shops have been accused of selling expired food and illicit goods. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, MMC for Safety and Security in the City of Johannesburg

The Public Servants Association and the State Information Technology Agency are reportedly set to sign a wage agreement which could end the week long strike. Workers affiliated to the union embarked on a strike last week after salary negotiations reached a deadlock with the Agency. The workers are demanding a seven point five percent salary increase coupled with non financial benefits, while the employer is offering five percent. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to PSA Chief Negotiator Zamani Dladla.

The South African Weather Services and other members of the World Meteorological Organisation will today converge in Sandton, Johannesburg for a pertinent capacity building programme, this as the continent grapples with climate change and adverse weather conditions. The heads of meteorological services across Africa and beyond, will discuss severe weather, variable weather patterns and subsequent environmental disasters on the continent and beyond. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Ishaam Abader, Chief Executive Officer of the South African Weather Services...

 Mpumalanga police have warned the public not to fall prey to criminals who solicit money from desperate job seekers applying for jobs at the South African Police Service. The police have reiterated that at no stage will the SAPS request applicants to pay money or ask for any favours in exchange for employment. They say they have noticed a trend where scammers come up with ways to source money from potential recruits. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today make a return visit to the North West to assess progress made on commitments government made during the previous District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the province. During the first visit, community members raised various service delivery issues pertaining to water shortages, crime, poor roads and the lack of access to electricity and jobs. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng...

The National Assembly has endorsed Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka as the next Public Protector. Gcaleka, who previously served as deputy and acting public protector, received 244 votes, while 12 MPs voted against her appointment. The DA staged a walkout during the debate, while the EFF, UDM, ATM, COPE and PAC did not participate in the vote. It's now left to President Cyril Ramaphosa to appoint Gcaleka to the position. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA spokesperson Solly Malatsi

The African National Congress, ANC will today hold a picket outside the Israeli embassy in Pretoria, In solidarity with Palestine. This after more than a week of intensified violent, retaliatory attacks between the two Middle Eastern countries, after the Palestinian group Hamas launched unexpected military onslaught against Israel. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Wendy Kahn, National Director of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies and ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union (HAITU) has called for the abolishment of the private healthcare system and the implementation of the National Health Insurance. The union believes the implementation of the NHI will guarantee quality healthcare for all South Africans. The NHI Bill was passed by the National Assembly in June. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Rich Sacini, president of Haitu 

The National Assembly is today expected to vote on whether to recommend Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka as the next Public Protector. Gcaleka has been acting in the position for more than a year, following the Parliamentary impeachment process of her predecessor, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to FF-Plus' Chief Whip in Parliament, Dr. Corné Mulder.

The CEO of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS Andile Nongogo has been implicated in alleged fraud and corruption. A damning forensic report found that Nongogo actively participated in the appointment of service providers, tasked to disburse allowances to students. The report has also accused Nongogo of having relations with some of the appointed companies. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Chantel King, DA MP and Shadow Minister for Higher Education and NSFAS spokesperson Slumezi Skosana

ActionSA will today picket outside the Durban International Convention Centre, following allegations by the party that the ANC-led eThekwini Municipality paid nearly R5-million for the ANC Women's League Conference that took place at the venue in August. ActionSA has written to the head of the City Integrity and Investigation Unit, Thulani Ntobela, requesting that he launches an immediate investigation into the matter. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Zwakele Mncwango, ActionSA KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Chairperson.

The death toll from severe flooding in the O.R. Tambo District, in the Eastern Cape has risen to four people. This after heavy rainfall affected various parts of the District, causing damage to property and infrastructure. For the latest Elvis Presslin spoke to OR Tambo District Municipality executive mayor, Mesuli Ngqondwana

The Institute for Economic Justice says the budget cuts that are currently being pushed through by National Treasury will cause economic contractions and that it views the cuts as rushed and indiscriminate . National Treasury recently proposed drastic cuts in government spending in the next six months as part of fiscal consolidation. The cuts are based on government's forecasts of a 22 billion rand tax revenue shortfall. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to the Institute for Economic Justice Tax and Budget Researcher, Liso Mdutyana.

A police officer has been killed and another wounded in a shootout between police and suspects in Ntuzuma, in KwaZulu Natal. Another police officer has been wounded. Eight suspects have also been killed. Police Minister Bheki Cele says another shootout in the Mzinyathi area near Inanda, also took place during an intelligence driven operation. The minister has revealed that in less than two months, 12 people have been killed by a group of criminals in areas north of Durban. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda

Negotiations between the Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA) and the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) for salary increases for the 2023/24 financial year will resume this morning. The workers belonging to the PSA which represents the majority of employees at SITA are on day three of their national strike action following a deadlock in salary negotiations. Workers are demanding an inflation linked 7.5% salary increase coupled with non-financial benefits while the employer is offering 5% percent. The Democratic Alliance has called on the Minister of Communications & Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, and Cabinet to ensure contingencies are in place and that the delivery of services continues undisrupted during the strike. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Tsholofelo Bodlani, DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Communications and Technologies

The Khampepe Commission of Inquiry into the building fire that claimed 77 lives in Johannesburg is set to begin later this month. The commission says the date of the commencement of public hearings of the inquiry will be 26 October 2023. The inquiry will look into what led to the fire at a hijacked Marshalltown building. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin caught up with Commissioner for the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry, Advocate Thulani Makhubela

Eye Care Awareness Month is commemorated from 21 September to 18 October to raise awareness about the importance of eye health. On the 12th of October South Africa joined the rest of the global health community in creating this awareness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) at least 2.2 billion people have vision impairment or blindness, of which more than 1 billion cases could have been prevented by simply doing an eye test.  Shortsightedness, also referred to as myopia, particularly becoming more prevalent.  If problems are detected early, management and treatment of the condition can prevent deterioration. The above statistics proves that an eye test is imperative to maintain general eye health. Elvis Presslin spoke to Ophthalmologist and Optometrist Gersha Arends. 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a yearly campaign to raise awareness, educate, and support people affected by breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Registry 2019, breast cancer remains the most prevalent of cancers amongst women, and females have a one in 27 lifetime risk of developing it. Just five percent of women regularly check their breasts for signs of cancer. The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) says, there is help and support available. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Michael Herbst, Health Specialist Consultant at CANSA

Veteran struggle activist Dr Allan Boesak, has turned down a proposal brought by the Patriotic Alliance, to have a street named after him. Boesak's decison comes after the party's statement of support for Israel in the Middle-East conflict. PA leader Gayton Mackenzie was attending a gathering at the South African Zionist Federation, and said the conflict there should not be compared to apartheid- and said that claiming so de-legitimises what black people and others went through. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Veteran struggle activist Dr Allan Boesak

The Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (PetroSA) says it is both unfounded and baseless that it is worsening the crisis of loadshedding by failing to supply Eskom with fuel. The fuel supplier says it engaged with Eskom in October 2022, requesting that the national power utility provides at least 3 months forecast of their demand due to losses that were realised by PetroSA linked to the erratic spot/ or promt demand. The purpose of this request was due to a trend that was developing where Eskom was increasing a burning rate and that would culminate in spot buying of cargos in the market. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to PetroSA Chief Operations Officer, Sesakho Magadla

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

Workers of the Public Servants Association of South Africa have downed tools at the State Information Technology Agency- SITA offices countrywide over a wage dispute with the employer. The PSA workers are demanding a seven point five percent salary increase coupled with non financial benefits while the employer is offering five percent. SITA is the government IT service provider at Home Affairs, SASSA and SAPS amongst others. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to PSA Chief Negotiator Zamani Dladla

Today marks World Food Day, observed on 16 October each year to raise awareness and take action against worldwide hunger and malnutrition. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), almost one in ten people globally are undernourished, and more than 3 billion can't afford a healthy diet. Conflict, climate change and rising prices are all contributing to growing food insecurity around the world. In South Africa, the Department of Social Development says an estimated 27.5% of children are stunted due to malnutrition. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Agricultural Economist, Wandile Sihlobo

ANC NEC member and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng has warned about the state of deteriorating municipalities. She was briefing media on the second day of the ANC National Executive Committee meeting in Boksburg in Ekurhuleni. Nkadimeng says while municipalities may be having difficulty in administration and governance - things are far better than they were in 1994. Elvis Presslin spoke to Thembi Nkadimeng to elaborate further on her sentiments

Israel says its preparing a full scale land, air and sea invasion of the Gaza strip. The country has deployed military troops on the border fence with Gaza, in preparation to expand its offensive on the enclave, amid continuous bombardment. A week of fierce gun fire and airstrikes have left thousands of Israelis and Palestinians dead since the fighting began following an attack by Hamas in Israel. Thousands of Palestinians fled Gaza in a mass exodus last week after Israel's military ordered some 1 million people to evacuate ahead of the invasion. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Roland Henwood, Political Scientist and Lecturer at the University of Pretoria...

WaterCan is demanding accountability from Johannesburg and Rand Water over constant water shortages. Residents in Johannesburg and Tshwane have been plagued by water supply interruptions in recent days as reservoirs in both metros were at critically low. Parts of Gauteng are still without water despite authorities reporting steady progress in reservoir recovery. WaterCAN, an initiative of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) say the lack of water is due to poor leadership and little to no maintenance of vital infrastructure. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Ferrial Adam, the Executive Manager of WaterCAN

The South African Medical Association (SAMA) says it is deeply concerned about the significant risks that fake doctors pose to public health and safety. This comes after the Gauteng Health Department opened a criminal case against a man, who claims to be a medical doctor. The bogus doctor, Matthew Lani, who also uses the names - Bongani Zingelwa or Sanele Zingelwa - claimed that he was a medical graduate from the University of the Witwatersrand Medical School, however, the University says it cannot find any person with either name.  In another incident, Limpopo resident Nthabiseng Ramokolo is accused of falsely claiming to be a qualified pharmacist and pursuing a master's degree. The University of Limpopo has confirmed that it has no existing record of Ramokolo, who has been posing on social media as a master's student at the institution. For more on this we Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMA spokesperson Dr. Mvuyisi Mzukwa

The UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, MONUSCO has suspended eight South African UN peacekeepers following reports of sexual exploitation and abuse. The personnel involved were deployed at a MONUSCO base in Beni, east of the country, were arrested earlier this month. The men are accused of "fraternizing, after curfew hours, at an out-of-bounds bar known to be a place where transactional sex occurs". For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Kobus Marais, DA Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

The South African Democratic Teachers' Union, SADTU will today march to the Durban City Hall over a myriad of challenges facing schools and teachers. Disgruntled educators in the province are threatening a full-blown strike if their demands and outstanding issues are not addressed. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to SADTU's KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Secretary, Nomarashiya Caluza

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 Inyanda National Land Movement will today march to the offices of the Department of Cooperative Governance & Traditional Affairs (Cogta) in Bisho, in the Eastern Cape. They are demanding access to water. The province has been battling a growing water crisis, where water disruptions have affected residents in a number of municipalities. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Andile Mapisa, Secretary General of Inyanda National Land Movement and a small holder farmer.

Judgment has been reserved in the Western Cape High Court on the City of Cape Town's application to move homeless people to Culemborg Safe Space. The City says its Safe Space model is a cheaper and more comprehensive intervention than its emergency housing programme. However, the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI), representing the people living on the streets, says the Safe Space option is not a reasonable alternative. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Zolile Shude, a Candidate Attorney at SERI

Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise will today visit the Lohatla Combat Training Centre in the Northern Cape. A memorial service is expected to be held for the six soldiers who lost their lives when a veldfire swept through the base last week. This as another fire has broken out at an army combat training centre in the same area. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SANDF Chief Director of Force Preparation, Major-General Patrick Dube

Disgraced Dr. Nandipha Magudumana has opened a case against prison officials at the Correctional Centre in Kroonstad for alleged assault. Facebook rapist and murderer Thabo Bester's girlfriend Magudumana accused prison authorities of manhandling and forcing her to attend court proceedings yesterday despite being unwell. Our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri spoke to Dr. Nandipha Magudumana's lawyer, Advocate Machini Motloung who expressed his dismay at the manner she was being treated...

Agri SA will today host its annual congress to address challenges facing the agricultural sector.  The gathering at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg will bring together leaders from the private and public sector to find lasting solutions to problems facing farmers and food security in South Africa. Elvis Presslin spoke to Christo Van der Rheede, Agri SA's Chief Executive Officer.

Afriforum Youth has denied stirring racial tensions by posting 'Blacks only' and 'No whites allowed' protest stickers at the entrances of the University of Pretoria. The group says the controversial stickers on campus entrances were meant to spark debate about racial exclusion at the University. Afriforum Youth's protest was allegedly sparked by the Institution's inaction against EFF members who reportedly barred white students from the University saying only black people could enter. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Afriforum Youth Spokesperson, Louis Boshoff

South Africa's great white shark population is heading for possible extinction after a rapid decline in numbers. A study of the country's coastal waters conducted by researchers at the Stellenbosch University concluded that the numbers of great white sharks are alarmingly low. The study was carried out in the Gansbaai area near Cape Town, a popular cage shark diving spot, and along the country's coastline. Marine biologist at the Stellenbosch University and commercial diver studying great white sharks around the coast of South Africa Dr. Sara Andreott who led the study, says trophy hunting, pollution, shark nets and baited hooks were among the reasons for the decline. Elvis Presslin caught up with her about the study...

The Democratic Alliance, DA says it will introduce legislation to align South Africa with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code. This after the Agency's compliance review committee issued a statement saying South Africa had not updated its anti-doping code. South Africa's national teams playing at international level will be barred from displaying the country's flag or singing the national anthem if we fail to comply with the latest Wada code. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to DA MP and National Spokesperson, Werner Horn

The ANC Youth League says it remains focused on having a 50% representation on the ANC list in parliament. The League is demanding for youth representation in parliament and provincial legislature after next year's general elections. ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe has dismissed the League's demand as absurd. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Youth League Spokesperson, Zama Khanyase

The Gauteng Health Department has opened a criminal case against a man claiming to be a medical doctor. "Dr Matthew Lani" trended on social media after giving out medical advice on the app TikTok and claiming to have obtain his medical qualification from Wits University. The University has since issued a statement saying Lani never obtained any medical qualifications from its institution. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng health department spokesperson, Motalatale Modiba

Eskom board chairperson Mpho Makwana has resigned. Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan confirmed Makwana's resignation in a statement yesterday. Makwana will leave the power utility at the end of this month. Current Eskom board member Mteto Nyathi will assume the role. Elvis Presslin spoke to Energy expert, Professor Sampson Mamphweli

The Western Cape High Court has ruled that the original inquest into the death anti-apartheid activist, Imam Abdullah Haron, be set aside. This after the court found six former apartheid security police officers responsible for the Muslim Cleric's murder. A 1970 inquest found that Haron died after falling down a flight of stairs. A new inquest found Haron's death was not accidental and that the activist died after being tortured by police. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Fatiema Haron-Masoet, daughter to the late Imam Abdullah Haron

Elvis Presslin discusses the 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 Department of Health has called on communities and organisations to create an enabling environment for people to openly discuss mental health challenges and share experiences to help break down barriers. This as health Minister, Dr. Joe Phaahla, will today lead the World Mental Health Day commemorative event in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Dudu Shiba, Director for Mental Health Programme Manager, at the National Health Department...

The African Christian Democratic Party says it will be joining the Multi-Party Charter that is being spear-headed by the DA. The party says it has joined the charter since it was made clear when the party was approached that the initiative is not a coalition of some sorts. The ACDP says it is still against any formation of coalitions before elections. To discuss this further we are joined on the line by ACDP Deputy President and Member of Parliament, Wayne Thring

The relatives of six soldiers killed in a fire at a military camp, in the Northern Cape are expected to identify their bodies from today. A wild fire swept through the Lohatla Military Combat Training Centre killing troops who were part of a military exercise named Vukuhlome. Three other soldiers remain in hospital after sustaining severe burns. The South African National Defence Force has since released the names of the victims. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to SANDF Chief Director of Force preparation, Major General Patrick Dube

Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for a gang of armed men who shot and killed a young preacher during his sermon to church congregants, in Newlands, Johannesburg. Prophet Dwayne Gordon was a guest speaker at the Eagles Christian Centre when he was shot by six armed men who stormed the church. Three other church congregants were also wounded in the incident. The shooting was captured during a live stream of the service on Facebook. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Alton Zakay, a close friend to Prophet Dwayne Gordon

Hundreds have been killed and scores others injured, in the latest escalation of violence in the Israeli-Palestine conflict. The latest retaliatory strikes by the two countries follows a surprise attack at the weekend by Hamas from the Gaza Strip. Israel has since declared a state of war as battles with the Palestinian group rages on. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Rolene Marks, Spokesperson for the South African Zionist Federation, who is based in Modi'in, Israel and Muhammed Desai, the Executive Director for Africa4Palestine...

Newly established political party Rise Mzansi will today host its three-day People's Convention at Constitution Hill, Johannesburg. The party will outline how its policies will address the socio-economic challenges facing the country. Rise Mzansi - which was launched this year, has joined the list of political parties contesting in next year's general elections. Elvis Presslin spoke with Rise Mzansi spokesperson, Tebogo Moalusi... 

The Gauteng Health Department says its outbreak response teams are monitoring various communities after two more children died of alleged food poisoning. Two schoolchildren died after consuming snacks bought at a taxi rank in Bekkersdal, in the West Rand. The latest incident follows the deaths of two Soweto boys who died after consuming food from a local spaza shop. Elvis Presslin spoke to Motalatale Modiba, spokesperson for the Department...

Africa Brief 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... TALKING POINTS: *** US billionaires team up with Africa's richest man to back $500 million Africa-focused fund *** Climate activists plan to boycott Standard Bank over fossil fuel  investments ***The world lists Nigeria; 's Naira among the worst-performing African currencies Elvis Presslin spoke to 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 Jacob Zuma Foundation has accused President Cyril Ramaphosa of breaching the equality clause in the Constitution by overlooking Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya, for the position of Chief Justice. Earlier this year, former President Zuma approached the Pretoria High Court in a bid to have Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo's appointment reversed. The President appointed Zondo as Chief Justice in April last year following interviews with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The JSC had recommended the then Supreme Court of Appeal Judge President, Mandisa Maya, for the position. However, the recommendation was not binding on the President - who later appointed Zondo as chief justice and Maya as Deputy Chief Justice. Elvis spoke to Legal Expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala...

Renowned paediatrician, anti-apartheid activist and HIV/AIDS expert, Professor Hoosen "Jerry" Coovadia has been laid to rest. The 83-year-old Emeritus Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal died on Tuesday at his La Lucia home in Durban North. Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Anna Coutsoudis, Professor Emeritus in Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, UKZN and a very close friend and research partner of Professor Jerry Coovadia...

Today is World Teachers' Day, also known as International Teachers Day. Teachers Day is held annually on the fifth of October. Since its set up in 1994, the day celebrates the marking of the "teaching in Freedom" in 1996. In commemoration of this day, we will look at the role of teacher unions in South Africa when it comes to issues pertaining to teachers. Elvis Presslin spoke to Nomusa Cembi, National spokesperson of the South African Democratic Teachers Union, SADTU...

The City of Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and Eskom are in another tussle over the two municipalities' electricity bills. Tshwane owes Eskom 3.2 billion Rand which has accumulated over July and August 2023 due to erratic payments. The two Municipalities jointly owe Eskom 4.7 billion Rand. Ekurhuleni's current bill stands at 1.5 Billion Rand. Elvis Presslin spoke to Ekurhuleni Municipality's Group Chief Financial Officer, Kagiso Lerutla...

The ANC Youth League in KwaZulu Natal is today expected to march to the Umgeni municipality to protest against the DA's Premier candidate Chris Pappas. The ANC is calling for his arrest, following allegations of corruption and nepotism. Earlier, the municipality obtained an interdict against the Youth League in the Pietermaritzburg High Court prohibiting a protest aimed at shutting down the town of Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, which was scheduled to take place on Monday. The DA Youth in KZN has defended Pappas calling the league's actions "opportunistic". Elvis Presslin spoke to Mqondisi Duma, ANC Youth League Convener in KZN...

The Civilian Secretariat for Police Service has begun its work in developing a new National Policing Policy for the country, as per the instruction of Police Minister Bheki Cele. The Secretariat says the National Policing Policy will feed into the South African Police Service Amendment Act, which aims to improve Policing across South Africa. Public consultations are currently underway where provinces are making inputs into the Policy. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Lillian Mashele, Deputy Director responsible for Policy Development at the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service

President Cyril Ramaphosa is today expected to officially launch the Border Management Authority in Musina, Limpopo. The launch is to strengthen, facilitate and manage the legitimate movement of persons and trade across South Africa's ports of entry. The country's borders have been characterised by poor controls and weak management - which has seen a rise in cross-border criminal activities and surge in illegal immigration. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Mike Masiapato, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority

The Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF are taking Parliament to court to challenge the Ethics committee's punitive action against its deputy president, Floyd Shivambu. This after the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Ethics and Members' Interests found Shivambu guilty for failure to disclose payments totalling R180,000 from Sgameka Projects - a company owned by his brother, Brian Shivambu. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF's Treasure General Omphile Maotwe

South Africans will be paying more at the pumps from today. This after the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced a fuel price hike which came into effect at midnight. Motorists will be paying more than R1 for all grades of fuel with Diesel expected to see an increase of between R1,96 to R1,93 per litre. But will the taxi industry refrain from fare increases despite rising fuel costs? For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Rebecca Phala, National spokesperson for the South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO

Some residents in the City of Tshwane Metro have threatened to boycott paying their municipal rates, citing poor service delivery, mainly in townships. Residents say they see no point in paying for services that they do not receive. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Chairperson of Lotus Atteridgeville Saulsville Civic Association, Tshepo Mahlangu

Police Minister Bheki Cele is challenging Parliament's Joint Committee on Ethics which found him guilty of violating its code of ethical conduct for members of Parliament. Cele was found guilty of breaching the code after yelling "shut up" at anti-crime activist Ian Cameron during a police Imbizo in Gugulethu, Cape Town last year. This after Cameron interrupted Cele's speech accusing him of failing to protect residents of Nyanga and Gugulethu. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Ian Cameron, Action Society's community safety director and the founder of firearms.co.za

October is International Spine Awareness month, while October 16th is observed annually as World Spine Day to raise awareness of spinal health. Research conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 80 percent of people will suffer from back or neck pain during their lives. Spinal disorders, such as back pain, neck pain, and disc disease are common, and they can have a profound effect on a person's overall health. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Spine Surgeon Dr, Lusanda Bomela

The Democratic Alliance has welcomed Parliamentary findings against EFF deputy President Floyd Shivambu. An Ethics Committee report found Shivambu guilty of violating the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members' Interests, for failure to disclose payments he allegedly received from the now-defunct VBS bank. The DA laid a complaint with the Committee in 2018 and again in 2019 when allegations surfaced that Shivambu received three transfers in August 2017, totaling R180 000 from Sgameka Projects - A company owned by his brother, Brian Shivambu. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Chief Whip in Parliament, Siviwe Gwarube

The African National Congress and Economic Freedon Fighters in KwaZulu-Natal are calling for action to be taken against Umngeni Municipality Mayor Chris Pappas for alleged nepotism. Former DA provincial leader Sizwe Mchunu wrote to the public protector to investigate allegations that Pappas' former fiancée was given R100 000 in funding for his tourism business by the Umngeni Municipality. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF provincial spokesperson Mazwi Blose

Elvis Presslin discusses 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

Former police investigator, Greg Kading says the rapper, Tupac Shakur's killer talked himself to jail. Kading was reacting to the arrest of  Duane "Keefe D" Davis, the man charged with Shakur's murder nearly three decades after the incident. The hip-hop legend was shot multiple times in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996. Davis, a former L.A Crips gang leader was indicted by a grand jury in Nevada last week for his involvement in the case. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Greg Kading, a retired Los Angeles police detective who spent years investigating the killing of rappers Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls

Build One South Africa Leader, Mmusi Maimane has announced that he will be gunning to be President after the 2024 general elections. Maimane has promised to introduce far reaching changes in social policy to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans. At the launch of the party's election campaign in Tshwane over the weekend,  Maimane said that should his party win the elections, it will introduce a maternal grant for pregnant women and ensure babies have adequate nutrition. To fight crime he says 120- thousand police officers will be added to the force. Specialised courts will also be established to fight corruption.  Build One South Africa Leader, Mmusi Maimane spoke to Elvis Presslin

The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) has welcomed the resignation of Transnet group CEO Portia Derby. According to the state owned company, Derby will be stepping down from her position at the end of October. She has been group CEO of the troubled logistics giant since 2020. Transnet has faced backlash from business - especially in the mining sector - for the inefficient logistics and ports services leading to freight being moved on to road. Michelle Phillips - the chief executive of Transnet Pipelines will act as group CEO from the first of November. Hlengiwe Makhathini has been appointed acting Chief Financial Officer after the resignation of Nonkululeko Dlamini. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SATAWU General Secretary, Jack Mazibuko 

Water utility Rand Water is implementing water shifting as an interim measure to stabilise the low reservoir levels. Reservoir levels in Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg and Tshwane municipalities have been low for weeks, with water tankers deployed in many areas. The Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu has encouraged water utilities to implement water shifting in Gauteng due to water supply issues. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Rand Water spokesperson Makenosi Maroo

Former South African Airways board chairperson Dudu Myeni and her co-accused are facing charges relating to the defunct Bosasa. Myeni and former Sondolo IT director, Trevor Mathenjwa were arrested on Friday and made a brief appearance in the Richards Bay Magistrate's Court on fraud and corruption charges. The pair were granted R10 000 bail each. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Sindisiwe Seboka, Spokesperson for the NPA's Investigating Directorate.

The Economic Freedom Fighters in the Western Cape will be protesting against the impoundment of taxis by local authorities in the province. The party is calling for the release of impounded taxis. The City of Cape Town and the South African National Taxi Council, Santaco have been at loggerheads since August after dozens of taxis were impounded - leading to Santaco staging an eight-day stayaway. Meanwhile, the ANC in the province has withdrawn from participating in the EFF-led protest today.  Elvis Presslin spoke to the EFF Western Cape Chairperson, Unathi Ntame.

 The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal will today host a Local Government Summit. The party says the summit is aimed at ensuring municipalities work for the betterment of citizens. The Chairperson of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in KZN, Thami Ntuli and the Mayor of uMngeni Municipality Chris Pappas are among those who will deliver key-note addresses. The summit comes after DA leader, John Steenhuisen announced Chris Pappas as the party's Premier candidate in KwaZulu-Natal for next year's general election. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dean Macpherson, DA KZN Chairperson.

It's  time to take a look at the current top African economic stories.....Elvis Preslin spoke to 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 been forced to postpone the first day of the start of the preliminary hearing lodged against a number of EFF members after the initiator for the process decided to withdraw. The establishment of the process aims at investigating whether the implicated MPs have indeed breached the Powers, Privileges and Immunities Of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act, after EFF MPs stormed the stage where President Cyril Ramaphosa was sitting during the Sate of the Nation Address early this year. The members are alleged to have disrupted the occasion preventing Ramaphosa from making his address. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Spokesperson, Sinawo Thambo

The National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union, NEHAWU will today march to the Social Development department In Pretoria over claims of nepotism. The Union is opposing an alleged attempt by Minister Lindiwe Zulu to reappointment Linton Mchunu - her suspected close ally - as director-general for the Department. Mchunu previously served as Zulu's chief of staff during her tenure as Small Business Development Minister. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to NEHAWU National Spokesperson, Lwazi Nkolonzi

Medical legal claims against the Health department are showing a significant increase.  That is according to the Office of the Auditor General.  The office of the AG and the department, led by the deputy minister, Dr. Sibongiseni Dhlomo, briefed Parliament's Select Committee on Appropriations on the impact of medical negligence claims on provincial health budgets and mitigations on medical legal claims.  To discuss this further,  deputy minister,  Dr. Sibongiseni Dhlomo spoke to Elvis Presslin

Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, has called on engineers to help government tackle infrastructure challenges made worse by destructive weather patterns. He delivered a keynote address at the 9th United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Africa Engineering Week, which got underway with an engineering conference in Pretoria. South Africa has experienced disasters linked to extreme weather conditions and an energy crisis, which engineers believe, through collaboration and skills development, could be a thing of the past. Elvis Presslin spoke to the spokesperson for the Construction, Mining, Energy and Engineering Workers Union (COMEEWU), Simo Mkhwanazi

Eleven people are confirmed dead due to a severe weather system, that hit the Western Cape.  According to police reports four of the victims were children aged between 7 and 12 years old.  With heavy rains and strong winds subsiding, clean up assessments and repairs are underway across in the province.  This while many roads remain inaccessible and dangerous. The Western Cape Department of Education says 242 schools have been damaged following heavy rains and gale force winds across the province. Learners from the affected districts have been unable to attend school due to road closures. Elvis Presslin spoke to Bronagh Hammond, Communication Director for the Western Cape Education Department

The Democratic Alliance in the Eastern Cape has called for  the establishment of a provincial commission of inquiry into state capture in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The party has written to Premier Oscar Mabuyane requesting an independent commission to Investigate alleged state capture in the municipality by politically connected Individuals. The party has given the premier until Friday to reply. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Andrew Whitfield, Provincial Leader of the Democratic Alliance in the Eastern Cape.

The 32-year-old mayor of the uMngeni Muncipality in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands - Chris Pappas - has been announced as the Da's KZN Premier candidate in the 2024 elections. Pappas was part of the campaign team which ensured a 42 vote victory over the ANC in 2021. This landed the party it's first municipality that it controls outright in the province. Having built a reputation as a hands-on mayor, Pappas made Time magazine's list of the top 100 emerging leaders in 2023. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Dean Macpherson, DA KZN Chairperson

The Special Investigating Unit, SIU will probe allegations of maladministration and corruption In the City of Tshwane. President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the SIU to investigate allegations of corruption relating to the failed Rooiwal waste water treatment plant. The multimillion-rand tender, which was awarded to controversial businessman Edwin Sodi is suspected to have possible links to the recent cholera outbreak in Hammanskraal. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the City of Tshwane Executive Mayor, Cillers Brink, who has welcomed the Investigations.

Emergency services are on high alert as heavy rains and flooding persist in the Western Cape. Heavy rainfall and gale force winds battered parts of the province, causing flooding and damage to infrastructure since the start of the long weekend. This after the South African Weather Service had issued a level 9 warning of disruptive rain and gale force winds. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Lehlohonolo Thobela, a Forecaster at the South African Weather Service

Elvis Presslin looks 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 South African Federation of Trade Unions, SAFTU will host the BRICS Trade Union Forum Dialogue in Durban, KwaZulu Natal today. The annual conference which consists of union federations from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa will discuss matters of global political and economic interest that affect workers. The BRICS Trade Union Forums follows the recent BRICS Summit in Sandton. The Forums are held annually in the countries and cities where and when the BRICS summits took place. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to SAFTU spokesperson, Trevor Shaku.

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) will be hosting a policy dialogue on "School Dropout of Adolescent Girls during Pregnancy and in the Postpartum Period Policy Dialogue". The dialogue is informed by CGE's recently published research report exploring reasons for school dropout by adolescent girls during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. The research study investigated the social, cultural, legislative, and economic factors that pose as barriers to school attendance by adolescent girls during pregnancy and after birth. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Commission for Gender Equality Chairperson Advocate Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale

Road Accident Fund CEO Collins Letsoalo says the fund cannot afford to pay out foreign nationals who suffer injuries during accidents on the country's roads. He says the government-funded scheme, which provides compensation to victims of motor vehicle accidents, cannot provide cover to foreign nationals as it is simply unsustainable. The Fund published a directive last year stating lump-sum payments would not be paid out to people who were in the country without valid documentation. This directive, is currently being challenged in court by Zimbabwean national Adam Mudawo. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Simba Chitando, An Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.

Land invasion in rural areas, crime, mining licenses and contracts are some of the issues that will be tackled today when a conference hosted by the Mpumalanga department of Co-operative Governance and the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders gets underway. The conference will also address the issuing of liquor licenses in outlets under traditional leadership. This comes amid the recent incidents of taverns shooting in KaNyamazane and land invasion concerns in Karino. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpumalanga House of Traditiona­l Leaders chairperson and Contralesa President Kgoshi Mathupa Mokoena 

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 South African Medical Research Council has been awarded a multi-million rand grant to test and develop a novel HIV vaccines in Africa. The U.S. Agency for International Development, USAID has invested approximately 867-million-Rand for a trial of a preventive HIV vaccine. The clinical trial has begun candidate enrollment in the United States and South Africa. The announcement comes at a time the world is embarking on a fast-track strategy to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. Our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri spoke to the President and CEO of the South African Medical Research Council, Professor Glenda Gray about what the multi-million rand grant means for the fight against HIV?

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) is demanding that power utility Eskom must be given 70% allocation in the renewable energy space. NUMSA expressed concerns that workers will get left behind if they do not occupy all spaces of the debate.  The union says it also has questions, why government is rushing to implement the transition in South Africa, when the carbon emissions are minimal, compared to other countries like Germany and the U.S. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Numsa spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola

Parliament's Justice and Correctional Services Committee will go ahead with impeachment proceedings against Judge Nkola Motata and Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe. Both judges have been found guilty of gross misconduct by the Judicial Conduct Tribunal.  Motata, for a drunk driving case in 2007 and Hlophe for influencing two retired Constitutional court judges in 2008 in the matter involving former President Jacob Zuma and French arms manufacturer, Thales. For reaction, Elvis Presslin spoke to Alison Tilley, attorney and coordinator at Judges Matter

Gauteng police are investigating an incident where at least 90 learners were hospitalised after consuming muffins laced with dagga. The learners from Pulamadibogo Primary school in Soshanguve, North of Pretoria were rushed to various medical facilities after experiencing nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting after consuming the so-called space cookies. Police visited the school and subsequently, a street vendor was identified as a seller of the muffins. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona

At least 55 villages in and around Giyani, Limpopo are still without reliable water supply, despite phase one of the Giyani Bulk Water Project being completed. This according to the Transformation Alliance, which has cited the turf war between Giyani Local Municipality and Mopani District Municipality for the water challenges. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Abel Tau, leader of the Transformation Alliance

The ANC in the Overberg region of the Western Cape says it is deeply concerned by the recent protest in Swellendam. Angry community members blockaded the N2 and torched a municipal building - Just a few weeks after another municipal office was set alight. The irate protesters are still unhappy about the application process for indigent benefits and service delivery in the area. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Overberg Regional Spokesperson Renier Louw

The EFF's motion of no confidence against Free State premier Mxolisi Dukwana lacked support from other opposition parties in the Free State Legislature. The motion was rejected as the DA and Freedom Front Plus decided to abstain from the vote. It comes after a reply from Dukwana that more than R3-million was spent on the funeral of the late Education MEC Tate Makgoe in March this year. For more on this Elvis Pesslin spoke to David van Vuuren,  DA Member of the Free State Provincial Legislature

The South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO in KwaZulu Natal is demanding a rank for its members at a newly established Oceans Mall in Umhlanga, Durban. Scores of taxi operators blockaded the entrances and exits to Mall, causing major traffic disruptions in the Umhlanga CBD. The taxi council says they were promised a rank when the mall was built where their previous rank was. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SANTACO's KZN spokesperson, Sifiso Shangase...

South Africa could soon have a new gender-neutral parental leave policy. A case against the Minister of Employment and Labour recently heard at the Gauteng High Court, is seeking a gender-neutral parental policy that enables all employees to take parental leave regardless of their gender. This after a father was reportedly denied maternity leave by his employer who said maternity leave protection only applied to women who had given birth. Current laws entitle birthing parents to at least four consecutive months maternity leave - while fathers are entitled to 10 days of parental leave. The court will soon hand down judgement on the matter. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Nkosinathi Thema, an Associate Attorney at Webber Wentzel.

Postbank says all outstanding grants payments have been paid. This after thousands of pensioners and other social grant beneficiaries were left destitute after not receiving their monthly payout for September. Postbank cited a technical glitch for non-payment. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Postbank Spokesperson, Dr. Bongani Diako

Residents of Kwa-Thema In Ekurhuleni say they will intensify their protest action until government attends to their grievances. The community says it has been abandoned by local government officials who have not prioritised the delivery of services in the area. They have been protesting since the weekend, demanding access to water and electricity. Rand Water, and Joburg water have urged consumers to use water sparingly - as increased consumption levels have led to reduced water supply in the province. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni, Zweli Dlamini

Johannesburg law enforcement officials will today continue its disconnection drive for non-paying customers in the City centre. Yesterday City Power embarked on a disconnection drive in Naturena, Johannesburg which owed millions to the municipality. The situation in Naturena became volatile with residents resisting City Power's cut-off operations - but ultimately resistance was futile. The City has now moved its operation to the Inner City where hijacked buildings have dominated headlines after an illegally occupied building was engulfed in fire, leaving 77 people dead. To further discuss this, Elvis Presslin spoke to MMC of Safety and Security in the City of Johannesburg, Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku.

Two labour unions representing workers at the SABC, (CWU and BEMAWU) have met with the public broadcaster's management for their ongoing salary negotiations yesterday. According to the unions, SABC is offering a 4% salary increase effective from next month, with no increase to housing. The unions say management was expected to give further response on the demands they presented during their previous meeting last week. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Communications Workers Union's General Secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala

The Democratic Alliance, DA will today lodge a complaint against government for failure to pay social grants this month. The party approached the South African Human Rights Commission to lodge a complaint against Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, her Department, the South African Social Security Agency, Sassa and Postbank. This after over half a million grant recipients were left financially stranded when their payments were delayed due to a technical glitch at Postbank. Communications and Digital Technologies Minister, Mondli Gungubele, has since dissolved the entire Postbank Board. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Bridget Masango, MP and DA Shadow Minister of Social Development

The City of Tshwane is considering a private partnership to increase the functioning of the Rooiwal and Pretoria West Power Stations. City Mayor, Cilliers Brink says this will assist the city to generate at least a 1000 Mega Watts of electricity independent of ESKOM in the next three years. Brink says the city's energy master plan seeks to reduce Tshwane's dependence on Eskom and alleviate the burden of load-shedding. To find out more about the Tshwane Power Plan Elvis Presslin spoke to City of Tshwane MMC for Utilities, Themba Fosi

Elvis Presslin in conversation 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 as he looks at the current top African economic stories  

The city of Durban has been selected as the host for the 19th World Water Conference taking place in 2025. A delegation from KwaZulu-Natal is attending the current water conference under way in the Chinese capital of Beijing. South Africa currently faces serious shortages and challenges with regards to water supply. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Head of eThekwini Municipality Water and Sanitation, Ednick Msweli

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC and the IFP should reconcile despite the two parties' bitter rivalry. He was speaking at the special official funeral of founding IFP President, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, in Ulundi at the weekend. Mangosuthu Buthelezi died last week, aged 95. Before his passing Buthelezi wished for the ANC, IFP to reconcile. The IFP and ANC have been at loggerheads over the drawn-out political violence in the 1980s and 1990s which left over 20,000 people dead in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to IFP MP and Deputy President Inkosi uMzamo Buthelezi

More than twenty people have been killed in a road cash involving a bus and a truck in Musina, Limpopo.  The bus was reportedly transporting mine workers to a local mine when it collided with a truck. For the latest Elvis Presslin spoke to Vongani Chauke, Spokesperson for Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Florence Radzilani...

The Garden Route in the Western Cape is bracing itself for more damaging spring tides, which have caused widespread destruction along the coastline. A 93-year-old woman died after sustaining injuries, after being caught in a wave at a beach in Wilderness, near George. The sea has caused havoc -- damaging municipal infrastructure and private properties. The South African Weather Services says the conditions are expected to last for the next few days. For more Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Weather Services Forecaster, Stacey Colborne

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 Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union says the alleged suicide of a young pregnant mother-to-be at Kopanong Hospital, could have been prevented. 26 year old Refilwe Thamae allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself inside a bathroom at Kopanong Hospital in Vereeniging. Thamae was reportedly suffering from a mental illness and was displaying abnormal behaviour. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union President, Rich Sicini

Communications and Digital Technologies Minister, Mondli Gungubele, has apologised to SASSA grant recipients for the technical glitch at the Post Bank. This  has left about a half million SASSA beneficiaries destitute after they failed to receive their monthly stipend. The glitch was caused when Post Bank upgraded its payment system. Gungubele together with Social Development Minister, Lindiwe Zulu, held a media briefing in Pretoria to address the issue. Elvis Presslin spoke to Communications Workers Union's General Secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala

BUILD ONE South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane says Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape, has one of the highest unemployment rates in South Africa, with a large number of young people without jobs. On Wednesday, Maimane led a march against unemployment and corruption in the City, as part of his nationwide engagements ahead of his party's one-year anniversary on Heritage Day. The party says it's against alleged job-killing corruption at the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA), which has cost the people of the metro R781 million in funding so far.  Elvis Presslin spoke to BOSA leader Mmusi Maimane....

Former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane plans to challenge her removal from office. President Cyril Ramaphosa removed Mkhwebane from office following a majority vote by the national assembly to impeach her after a Section 194 process found her guilty of misconduct and incompetence. Mkhwebane is the first Chapter 9 head to be fired. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane

The Congress of South African Trade Unions, COSATU is threatening to go on strike if the City of Tshwane fails to pay salary increases. This after the City announced its intentions to challenge the bargaining council's decision to immediately pay a 5.4% wage increase promised to workers in 2021. The City has cited its financial woes for not being able to pay salary increases for the 2023 financial year. The threat from Cosatu comes as the metro battles with service delivery due to the ongoing wage strike since July. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU's Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, Amos Monyela

Civil Society group, the People's Movement for Change (PMC), will today march to the Cape Town Civic Centre to outline its concerns to city Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. Key issues to be highlighted include high electricity and water tariffs, unfair treatment of informal traders and unemployment among a myriad of other issues. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Siya Nyeka, Head of Communication and Media for the People's Movement for Change

BUILD ONE South Africa will today host a march against unemployment and corruption in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. The march will be led by the organisation's leader Mmusi Maimane, protesting against alleged job-killing corruption at the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA), which has cost the people of Nelson Mandela R781 million in funding so far.  The party says this is part of its nationwide engagements ahead of its one-year anniversary on Heritage Day. Elvis Pesslin spoke to BOSA leader Mmusi Maimane.

The Special Investigating Unit, SIU is considering legal action against former Eskom CEO, André de Ruyter for authorizing a private Investigation into corruption at the power utility. The Unit was briefing the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Scopa about an intelligence report commissioned by de Ruyter into sabotage and looting at Eskom. De Ruyter commissioned the report without authorization from the board. SIU head, Advocate Andy Mothibi says de Ruyter could be guilty of maladministration. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Benedicta van Minnen, MP and DA Member on the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, SCOPA

The City of Tshwane has served seven bus services employees with intended letters of dismissal. The seven employees dubbed "strike instigators" by the City, were served with notice for supporting the furtherance of the prolonged illegal SAMWU strike. Five of the seven employees are SAMWU shop stewards. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to City of Tshwane Spokesperson, Selby Bokaba

The City of Joburg has begun collecting unpaid rates and services bills from indebted ratepayers at roadblocks. The City plans to post finance officers at certain roadblocks in an effort to collect outstanding revenue for water, electricity, rates and taxes. For a reaction on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Wayne Duvenage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, OUTA

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality says its gearing up to recover around R1.6 Billion in municipal services debt. The municipality says the main culprits are businesses who have failed to pay for water and electricity, which has put a strain on the Metro's revenue collection. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Councilor Khanya Ngqisha, MMC for Infrastructure and Engineering in the Metro

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in partnership with the Law Society of South Africa and other participating stakeholders, officially opened the National Wills Week campaign at Thohoyandou In Limpopo. The Wills Week initiative affords members of the public an opportunity to learn about the significance of Wills and how to draft them. Master of the High Court offices in all the Provinces, legal practitioners and private practice attorneys will set up service desks where the public will be assisted to draft wills at no cost. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Patrys Venter, Deputy Master in the Office of the Chief Master

The National Assembly has voted to remove suspended public protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane from office. Mkhwebane was impeached with a vote of 318 for, 43 against and one abstention in the National Assembly yesterday. She is the first Public Protector to be removed, just weeks before her seven-year term expires in mid-October. Mkhwebane's removal follows a Section 194 Committee report which found her guilty of misconduct and incompetence. Elvis Presslin spoke to Democratic Alliance Member of Parliament, Dr. Mimmy Gondwe, who served on the Section 194 Committee and the Ethics Committee

Victor Kgomoeswana, author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back brings us the top African Economic stories. Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

The passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has renewed discussions about the legacy he leaves behind. Messages of condolence have been pouring in following his death on Saturday at his home in KwaZulu-Natal . The 95 has been described as a patriot and freedom fighter who contributed immensely to South Africa's democracy and the Zulu nation. But his critics remember Shenge, as he is affectionately known - as having a hand in the turbulent years of violence that plagued South Africa's townships during the 1980s and 1990s. For more on the legacy Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi leaves behind, Elvis Presslin spoke to Sazi Mhlongo, former chairperson of traditional healers in KwaZulu-Natal and Princess Phumzile Buthelezi, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi's daughter and IFP Member of the KZN Provincial Legislature about her father's legacy

September 11th 2022, will forever haunt the families of Jagersfontein, who were displaced when the mine dam collapsed. To date many residents are at the end of their tethers, with their livelihoods taking a turn for the worst. Government says legal disputes are hindering the progress of building houses for the affected families. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Human rights attorney Richard Spoor, who represents families affected by the Jagersfontein disaster

A memorial service will be held today for the victims of the Albert Street fire in Johannesburg's city centre. Last week a fire tore through the five-story Usindiso Centre for Women and Children, killing 77 people and leaving scores other injured, in the illegally occupied building. The South African Council of Churches in Gauteng will host the memorial service at the Central Methodist Church in the CBD this morning. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Council Chairperson, Bishop Dr. White Makabe Rakuba

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, NSPCA has opened a criminal case against Julius Malema for animal cruelty. The organisation says it received complaints after a video of Malema slaughtering a cow went viral on the social media platforms. The slaughtering of the cow was done as part of the party's 10th anniversary celebrations in July. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to NSPCA's Senior Inspector Nazareth Appalsamy, Manager for Special Investigations Unit

Transnet Freight Rail has appointed Voestalpine South Africa to manufacture and supply turnout sets for the next three years. This as the railway company seeks to improve and advance its railway solutions to boost the South African economy. The turnout sets and components for this project will be manufactured at VAESA's Isando facility in Johannesburg. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Voestalpine South Africa CEO, Pulane Tshabalala Kingston

The United Democratic Movement, UDM and African Transformation Movement, ATM are calling for a secret ballot when suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane faces a vote of removal from office in Parliament. The Section 194 Committee recently adopted a final report which recommended her removal. The parties wrote to National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, requesting for a secret ballot instead of an open vote when MPs decide Mkhwebane's fate next week Monday. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to UDM Leader General Bantu Holomisa

ActionSA in Johannesburg has slammed the Democratic Alliance for voting with the ANC to increase the salaries of all councillors. ActionSA says the salary hikes will cost the city an additional R5.5 million per year, or R20,000 per councillor. The party says the money could be better used to improve service delivery in the city. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Councillor Strike Rambani, DA Shadow MMC for Human Settlement in the City of Johannesburg

Deputy Minister of Social Development Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu says pregnant women who consume alcohol must be criminally charged. She was speaking at an event to raise awareness on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in Ndwedwe, Kwa-Zulu Natal. This as September marks Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders awareness month. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Vivien Lourens, founder of the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Information and support Centre, (FAS)

The South African Municipal Workers' Union in the Free State will today march to Matjhabeng Local municipality to voice their grievances. Members of the Union, along with workers at the municipality are expected to deliver a memorandum of demands to Executive Mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Vusi Xaba, SAMWU's Secretary in the Matjhabeng Local municipality

The Interfaith Forum of South Africa has expressed concern about the social and moral crisis in the country. The Forum - a collaborative effort of various faith traditions and communities were at Robben Island, In Cape Town yesterday to outline its planned Conference on the National Crisis, aimed at eradicating challenges facing South Africa. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Interfaith Forum of South Africa Chairman, Bishop Malusi Mpumlwana  

Eswatini has been urged to release pro-democracy members of parliament as part of its independence celebrations today. Two pro-democracy MPs have been languishing in prison since July 2021 on charges of terrorism. Civil and pro-democracy organisations are calling on Eswatini to choose a democratic path by first releasing two jailed MPs as the country marks 55 years of independence from Britain. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Spokesperson for Lucky Lukhele, Spokesperson for Swaziland Solidarity Network

Petrol prices for both 93 and 95 octane will at midnight increase by a massive R1,71c per litre, diesel by between R2,76c and R2,84c, while illuminating paraffin will increase by R3,70c per litre. The increase will be the highest fuel increase since July last year. Fuel retailers have also urged government to find alternative solutions to the ever increasing fuel prices. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Automobile Association spokesperson Layton Beard.

The ANC is considering new legal options after the Supreme Court dismissed the party's leave to appeal a cadre deployment ruling. The Appeals court dismissed with cost, the ANC's application to appeal a Gauteng High Court ruling which compels the party to hand over complete records of its national cadre deployment committee to the DA within five days. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to DA spokesperson Solly Malatsi

Suspended Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane says she will be reporting for duty today. In her statement, posted on X - formerly Twitter, Mkhwebane says she informed President Cyril Ramaphosa of her intention to return to work, citing protocol and the expiry of her suspension. Last month, the Section 194 Committee adopted its report following an inquiry into Mkhwebane's fitness for office and recommended her removal to the National Assembly. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

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 gives us the latest African economic stories...

The Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union, HAITU says national Treasury will collapse the public healthcare sector by implementing drastic budget cuts. Treasury's cost-cutting proposals will implement a number of stringent measures to rein in government spending which include a hiring freeze, after a shortfall in revenue collection. HAITU says hospitals are faced with staff shortages and the states refusal to fill vacancies lead to poor patient outcomes. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to HAITU General Secretary, Lerato Mthunzi

 Zimbabwe President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa will be inaugurated today for the second time after the August 23 elections. However opposition parties have disputed the election results accusing ZANU PF of vote rigging. Some Zimbabweans have called for the establishment of a transitional government. Meanwhile Gabon will swear in General Brice Nguema as transitional president today following a military coup just hours after President Ali Bongo's electoral win. Gabon's new military leader has pledged to return the country to democracy, but has refused to provide timelines for fresh elections. To discuss this further, we are joined by Associate Professor of Public Affairs in the Department of Public Management at the Tshwane University of Technology, Professor Ricky Mukonza

Lobby group Afriforum is challenging the "Kill the Boer" chant today in the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein. The group is appealing against the Equality Court order that found the struggle song does not constitute hate speech. Afriforum say the chant is a clear-cut example of hate speech that it endangers the lives of farmers in South-Africa. For more on today's appeal, we're now joined on the line by Willie Spies, Afriforum's legal representative

President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is no proof that weapons were loaded onto Russia's cargo ship, Lady R last year. Ramaphosa was addressing the nation on the conclusion of a panel investigation into the Lady R vessel which docked at Simonstown Naval Base last year. In May, US ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety accused South Africa of providing arms to Russia in the midst of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. This prompted Ramaphosa to establish an inquiry into Brigety's remarks. President Ramaphosa says the three-member panel - head by retired Judge Phineas Mojapelo, found none of the allegations pertaining to the supply of weapons to Russia to be true. For reaction we caught up with the Democratic Alliance's Shadow Minister of Defence, Kobus Marais.

An acclaimed music teacher and church organist Shadè Jansen is on cloud nine after hearing her original music composition called Chorale and Toccata will be showcased on the world stage and will premiere internationally in New York, US, in September. Prof Theo van Wyk from the University of Pretoria, the first person of colour to earn a doctorate in musicology in South Africa added Shadè's Chorale and Toccata, as part of his new repertoire on the organ recital program that will premiere at The Cathedral Church of St John the Divine on 10 September 2023 in New York.. Elvis Presslin spoke to celebrated organist Prof Theo van Wyk from the University of Pretoria... 

Safer South Africa Foundation and Harmony Gold have launched crime prevention initiatives across the country to deal with the scourge of illegal mining. The Communities and Justice Programme will be rolled out in communities near the mining company's operations in Gauteng, Free State and North West provinces to address rising levels of criminality. Elvis Presslin spoke to retired General Riah Phiyega, CEO of the Safer South Africa Foundation... 

Africa Brief 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 Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, OUTA is heading to court to stop the reinstatement and enforcement of old traffic fines. The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) tasked with implementing legislation says the Aarto Act does not prescribe any time limit for the issuance of enforcement orders. The points demerit system, a crucial element of Aarto aimed at removing serial offenders from the road has not been implemented anywhere yet. Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Stefanie Fick, Executive Director of Accountability and Public Governance at OUTA

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the Johannesburg fire that claimed the lives of at least 75 people as a tragic disaster. Ramaphosa cancelled his scheduled address to the nation yesterday to visit the reportedly hijacked building that was ravaged by fire. At least 250 people were injured - 50 of whom are being treated in hospital. Ramaphosa says the issue of inner city housing and the hijacking of buildings needs to be addressed. We caught up with our reporter, Sashin Naidoo, and SERI's Senior Communications and Advocacy Officer Edward Molopi. 

Expelled former ANC Secretary General Ace Magashule launched his own political party after months of speculation. Magashule says his party will work with what he calls the politically weary and those abused by the current political system. He was speaking at the launch of his party in Oralndo West, Soweto yesterday. His party - The African Congress for Transformation will host its first conference in October to elect a permanent leadership ahead of next year's polls. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst and Director of the Nelson Mandela University Centre for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution, Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast

The City of Tshwane says it is going to take civil action against the South African Municipal Workers Union for damages caused by the strike. Workers affiliated to SAMWU have been on an unprotected strike over salary increases since July. The strike turned violent with some of the city's infrastructure damaged and vandalised. Service delivery has been brought to a halt in many areas. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to City of Tshwane Executive Mayor, Cilliers Brink

20 people have died and 43 others injured after a fire broke out at a building in the Johannesburg city centre this morning. Elvis Presslin spoke to Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi...

The Right to Read Campaign says it will take 86 years for all South African children to read for meaning. Social justice organisations such as the South African Human Rights Commission, the Legal Resources Centre, Equal Education and SECTION27 launched The Right to Read Campaign at Constitution Hill, in Johannesburg yesterday to address the shocking early-grade literacy rates. The campaign is in response to a 2021 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study which revealed that 81% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language, including their home language. Our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri spoke to Right to Read Campaign's Sipumelele Lucwaba about the primary objective of the campaign.

General Brice Oligui Nguema has been named as Gabon's transitional leader. Army officers took power in a coup in the early hours of yesterday morning. Appearing on television, the officers said they had annulled the results of Saturday's election. The officers say they have arrested one of President Ali Bongo's sons for treason. Deposed Gabonese President Ali Bongo has appealed for help from the international community. For more on this we're joined on the line by Frederique Baya, a Citizen in Gabon 

The Marketing, Advertising and Communication (MAC) Charter Council will host a Women's Day event tomorrow, a gathering dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in the MAC Sector. The Council believes that through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts, it can stimulate valuable insight on discussions on women's leadership within the sector. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Chief Director Media Policy and MAC Charter Council Secretariat, Sandile Nene 

The Constitutional Court has heard that the current Electoral Amendment Act disadvantages independent candidates as compared to political parties. The One SA Movement and the Independent Candidates Association of South Africa yesterday, approached the country's apex court in  a bid to challenge the constitutionality of the allocation of seats in the National Assembly and the the 15% signature threshold. The issue of proportional representation and the risk of overhang dominated arguments on the optimum way to conduct future national and provincial elections, which must include independents for the first time. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Michael Louis is the Chairperson of the Independent Candidate Association

Two Home Affairs officials have been charged for their alleged role in granting the controversial Gupta family South African citizenship. This was revealed by the Independent Multi-Disciplinary Task Team that was established by the Home Affairs Department. The task team and the department were appearing before Parliament's Home Affairs Committee to respond to a 2022 report by former director-general in the presidency Cassius Lubisi. The report comes after a full scale investigation into the fraudulent issuing of different visas and permits between 2004 and 2020. For more on this  Elvis Presslin spoke to Home Affairs Director-General Tommy Makhode, who was part of the presentation

Parliament's ad hoc committee, established to select the next Public Protector, will recommend the name of acting PP, Kholeka Gcaleka, to head the Chapter Nine institution. The committee interviewed eight shortlisted candidates last week.  Gcaleka was proposed to be the successful candidate, by the ANC and supported by the IFP.  The DA, FF Plus and EFF did not support the proposal for Gcaleka to take over the reigns from suspended PP, Busisiwe Mkhwebane. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to IFP MP and Deputy President Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi.

North West Community Safety and Transport Management MEC, Sello Lehari has ordered an urgent investigation into a fire that engulfed parts of the Pilanesberg International Airport near Sun City. The fire is believed to have started at the top of a building close to the Air Traffic Control Tower. No injuries have been reported and the cause of the fire has yet to be ascertained. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to North West Community Safety and Transport Management Spokesperson, Oshebeng Koonyaditse

Four-million young people have been registered onto the network of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) through the initiative's national pathway management network where young people were supported to access more than one-million temporary earning opportunities, since the inception of the Intervention in 2020. Government has emphasized that the initiative is a multi-stakeholder partnership, that accelerates efforts to transition young people into earning opportunities.  The Office in the Presidency released the initiative's first quarter report for the 2023-24 financial year. For more on this, Lerato Shai, Director of Project Management Office in the Presidency spoke to Elvis Presslin

 Independent candidates are challenging the constitutionality of the electoral amendment act at the Constitutional Court today. The new act will allow independent candidates to stand in provincial and national elections next year. The apex court will hear applications from the Independent Candidates' Association of South Africa and the One South Africa Movement, who believe the new act favours political parties more than independent candidates. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Chief activist and leader of the One South Africa Movement, Mmusi Maimane

The City of Cape Town says it will sue the South African National Taxi Council, Santaco for damages caused during the taxi strike earlier this month. Speaking to our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri, City Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis say the recent agreement to end the strike does and did not absolve the provincial taxi council of responsibility for the damages caused

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

Investigations are underway into the cause of a shack fire in which five children were burnt beyond recognition at the Itireleng informal settlement near Laudium in Pretoria. Tshwane Emergency Services say two little girls and three young boys died in the blaze. The children belonged to two sisters. Mabaso says it is alleged the two sisters left the children in a shack overnight and went out to drink at a nearby tavern. The sisters were under police arrest and taken to a local police station for questioning. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Gugu Xaba, CEO of Save the Children South Africa  

EFF Leader Julius Malema says over 200 public representatives who failed to organise and pay for buses for the party's 10th anniversary celebrations must resign. He was briefing the media on the outcomes of the EFF's Central Command Team meeting in Kempton Park, Johannesburg. Malema says the public representatives which include MPs, MPLs and several councillors across the country failed to adhere to a directive given in January to arrange transport for members attending the party's celebrations at FNB stadium in Soweto. For more on this, Elvis Presslin  spoke to one of the former EFF MPs who failed to organize the said buses, Vusi Khoza

Some of the parties making up the Government of Local Unity currently running the City of Johannesburg say they are not anxious nor perturbed by calls for mayor Kabelo Gwamanda to step down and for council to be dissolved and for fresh elections to be held. Action SA is expected to bring a motion of no confidence against Joburg mayor Kabelo Gwamanda during the sitting of council this week, while the DA wants this motion amended and for the Joburg council to be dissolved. The City of Johannesburg has had four mayors since the November 2021 local government elections. Elvis Presslin spoke to Al Jama-ah President Ganief Hendricks

Emmerson Mnangagwa has been declared President-elect in Zimbabwe. He has trounced his main rival Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change. The opposition alleges that election was rigged. ZANU-PF has been in power for more than four decades. Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Kealeboga Maphunye, a Professor of African Politics at the University of South Africa, UNISA and Peter Ndoro, our colleague at Channel Africa

In continuing to remember Uyinene Mrwetyana and many others who lost their lives due to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), the University of Cape Town (UCT) will gather in support of a unity walk organised by the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation tomorrow, Saturday 26 August. Uyinene  a UCT first-year student, went to the post office in Clemont, Cape Town to pick up a parcel and ended up being brutally raped and murdered by a male post office worker, Luyanda Botha, on 24 August 2019. He confessed and was handed three life sentences in the Western Cape High Court. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to UCT's Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Transformation, Student Affairs and Social Responsiveness, Professor Elelwani Ramugondo

Six countries will be joining the BRICS group of nations next year. The annual BRICS summit held in Sandton, Johannesburg announced the admission of Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates into the bloc. The membership of the new countries will come into effect in January next year. So what does this new BRICS expansion entail? To answer this and more, Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Chris Landsberg, Director of the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg

Time to take 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

At least 41 independent election monitors have been arrested for allegedly trying to disrupt Zimbabwe's general election. The monitors are from civil society groups trying to verify the ballot counting. Zimbabwe's main opposition party Citizens Coalition for Change is concerned that the ruling ZANU-PF may try to rig the results. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to our reporter Khayalihle Khumalo

ActionSA has brought a motion of no confidence against Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda. The motion will be tabled at the next Ordinary Council meeting set to take place on 31st August. The party says with a budget close to R80 billion, the City needs a credible leader at its helm. Gwamanda faces serious accusations of running a Ponzi scheme which stole from residents in Soweto. His educational qualifications have also come under scrutiny. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Nobuhle Mthembu, ActionSA City of Johannesburg Caucus Leader.

Leaders of the BRICS group of nations are discussing the possible expansion of the five-nation bloc. The Brics countries - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa who are currently meeting at the 15th BRICS Summit in Sandton, Johannesburg have also initiated talks to create their own currency, economic and trade systems within the bloc. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Chris Landsberg, Director of the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg

Angry parents of learners from Dr. Mathole Motshekga Primary School in Rabie Ridge, Johannesburg have shut down the school in protest over its poor infrastructure. Yesterday parents and members of the school governing body (SGB) resorted to shutting down the school after the Basic Education Department failed to meet their demands of building a new school. The primary school has been teaching learners in mobile container classrooms since 2016. Delegates from Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane's office are expected to visit the school today. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Lerato Goba, a member of the school governing body at Dr. Mathole Motshekga Primary School..

Voting in Zimbabwe's general election was marred by delays with opposition parties already crying foul about vote rigging. Yesterday Zimbabweans went to the polls to elect a president, legislators and local authorities in a contest in which incumbent president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, is seeking a second term. Most urban polling stations in Harare and Bulawayo, where opposition leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change, Nelson Chamisa claims to have a stronghold, opened a few hours late. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Khayalihle Khumalo, who is in Harare, Zimbabwe

Professor of African Politics at the University of South Africa, Professor Kealeboga Maphunye speaks to Elvis Presslin on delays with polls opening for Zimbabwe's election. Opposition parties are already crying foul about vote rigging

Today is the last day of the South African Federation of Trade Unions, SAFTU's National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting. The NEC meeting has been discussing domestic and international socio-economic issues and political developments including the current BRICS Summit. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to SAFTU National spokesperson Trevor Shaku

Zimbabweans will cast their votes today in the country's general election, which will determine the future of Zimbabwe amid an economic crisis. A total of 11 candidates are vying for the presidency, but the main contest is between the incumbent President Emerson Mnangagwa of Zanu-PF, and Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). To look into the Zimbabwe General Elections we are joined on the line by Professor of African Politics at the University of South Africa, Professor Kealeboga Maphunye

Zimbabweans are gearing up to vote for a President in the country's general elections today. A total of 11 candidates are vying for the presidency, but the main contest is between the incumbent President Emerson Mnangagwa of Zanu-PF, and Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Zanu-PF, which has governed Zimbabwe since its independence in 1980, is confident it will retain power. For more on the country's general elections, Elvis Presslin spoke to Blessed Chisiiwa, a young Zimbabwean based in Harare

Tributes continue to pour in for veteran investigative journalist and broadcaster Derek Watts who passed away yesterday after a battle with Sepsis and skin cancer. Watts was 74. He detailed his health battles on social media. He worked at investigative program Carte Blanche since its inception 35 years ago. For more on this, Tshamano Makhadi, Treasurer-General for the South African National Editors' Forum (Sanef) spoke to Elvis Presslin

President Cyril Ramaphosa says BRICS leaders will consider other countries' requests to join the bloc. He was addressing delegates at the official opening of the 15th BRICS Summit in Sandton, Johannesburg yesterday. Ramaphosa says BRICS countries - Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa will consider over 20 countries' applications for entry into the bloc. For more more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Khulu Mbatha, a former Diplomat and former adviser to both President Kgalema Motlanthe and President Cyril Ramaphosa

Today marks exactly two years since the murder of whistle-blower Babita Deokaran. Deokaran was a senior Gauteng Department of Health Financial official and a key witness in several investigations looking into claims of corruption at the department during the COVID-19 pandemic. She was gunned down in the driveway of her home, south of Johannesburg. Yesterday,  all six men accused of her killing have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms of between six and 22 years in the high court in Johannesburg. They pleaded guilty to the charges of murder and attempted murder. This after the accused entered into a plea agreement with the state. For more on this, Babita Deokaran's brother-in-law Pastor Tony Haripersadh, spoke to Elvis Presslin

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Blade Nzimande faces four court actions that seek to stop him from putting UNISA under administration. Nzimande intends to disband the university council and put the university under administration after findings of financial mal-administration by an independent audit. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Higher Education, Science and Innovation Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi

Chinese President Xi Jinping will today pay President Cyril Ramaphosa a state ahead of the BRICS Summit, in Sandton, Johannesburg. Leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa are meeting at the  15th BRICS Summit from today until Thursday to debate expansion, enchance diplomatic and economic ties. More than 60 heads of state and government have also been invited to the Summit. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Martyn Davies, Emerging Markets expert.

The United Democratic Movement, UDM has rejected the South African Reserve Bank report, which cleared President Cyril Ramaphosa of any wrongdoing in its investigation into undisclosed foreign currency stolen from his Phala Phala farm in 2020. UDM Leader General Bantu Holomisa says the findings are a whitewash on the same scale as acting Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka's report - which equally cleared the President of any wrongdoing. Elvis Presslin spoke to General Bantu Holomisa to elaborate further on his sentiments...

Time to take 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.

Zimbabweans will go to the polls tomorrow to elect a new president and government. The country's ruling ZANU-PF party which has been in power for the last 43 years says it is ready for electoral victory. A dozen candidates are vying to be the country's next president but the main contest seems to be between incumbent, Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is seeking a second term and and Nelson Chamisa, of the new Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). For more on this we Elvis Presslin spoke to our SABC reporter, Khayalihle Khumalo, who is in Zimbabwe

South Africa's agricultural sector is expected to gain new export markets from some of the agreements to be concluded during the Brics Summit. China and Brazil have shown big interest in South Africa's agricultural commodities in recent months. The BRICS summit which starts tomorrow will see over 40 heads of state and 500 delegates attend this event. For more on this Jaco Minnaar, Agri SA President spoke to Elvis Presslin

The BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - will begin its 15th heads of state and government summit in Sandton, Johannesburg tomorrow. Over 40 countries are expected to attend. Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend in person due to an arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Putin will participate in the summit virtually and will be represented in by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. For Business expectations on the Summit, Elvis Presslin spoke to Kganki Matabane, CEO of the Black Business Council

A Cape Town Advocate has served the Speaker of Parliament with a letter of demand to remove the chairperson of suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's impeachment inquiry. Advocate Winston Erasmus is demanding Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula to remove Richard Dyantyi after his recusal application against him was declined. Erasmus says Dyantyi was too compromised to officiate over the inquiry looking into Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office, as he served as a Manager for then deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa's CR-17 campaign in the Western Cape. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Winston Erasmus.

As we continue to commemorate Women's Month this August, the National Debt Advisors says the dire economic situation in the country has directly translated to a significant increase of 68% in women seeking debt help at the organisation. The organisation says it has seen notable spikes in single women applicants and women who applied jointly with spouses, both this year and 2022.  For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Quinton Ramohlabi, Quality Assurer at National Debt Advisors

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJoints) says it is confident that the upcoming BRICS Summit to be held in Sandton, Johannesburg next week, will take place in a safe and secure environment. The structure, which comprises the South African Police Service, State Security Agency, as well as the Defense Force, says security has been beefed up in all the areas where the delegates attending the summit are going to be, including the airport. The summit is expected to be attended by several heads of state from across the world. Distinguished guests will also include the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. For more on this NatJoints Spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe spoke to Elvis Presslin

The Multi Party National Convention of South Africa has agreed to a power sharing structure following two-days of deliberations in Kempton Park on Gauteng's East Rand. Leaders of seven political parties met to formulate terms of agreements for their new partnership ahead of next year's general elections. The goal of the seven parties is to remove the ANC from national government for the first time in post-apartheid South Africa. They have also issued an invitation to other likeminded parties to join their ranks. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to National Chairperson of ActionSA, Michael Beaumont

Time to take 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 South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has made a parliamentary submission to the Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy, opposing sections of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill. The Bill seeks to establish a national regulatory framework for the electricity supply industry. But SAFTU feels the Bill is aimed at furthering the objectives to privatize energy provision in the country. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to SAFTU spokesperson Trevor Shaku

The Truckers Association of South Africa (TASA) says engagements are at an advanced stage to have 20% of trucks on the South African road networks removed and have goods transported by rail. This to eliminate the security threats faced by truck drivers across the country and to reduce traffic congestion on the road networks. But the African Unite Borders Bus Trucks Association, AUBBTA is opposed to the TASA's plans to reduce road freight by 20%. Elvis Presslin spoke to Phumudzo Mukhwathi, Chairperson of the African Unite Borders Bus Trucks Association, AUBBTA

The South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) has vowed to continue its protest action until workers are paid their wage increases. This, as the City of Tshwane has dismissed some striking workers, calling them the 'ring leaders' behind what it says it's an unlawful and unprotected strike in the metro. The strike has left residents of Mabopane and Soshanguve north of Pretoria without water since it began two weeks ago. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMWU Gauteng provincial secretary Mpho Tladinyane

A 13-year-old learner has been removed from Crowthorne Christian Academy in Midrand, Johannesburg for having dreadlocks. In a viral video captured on camera, the teen and her mother are seen being pushed out of a classroom by a male school official, who accused the teen of violating the school's new hair policy. The incident at the Academy has since conjured discussions about Zulaikha Patel, a teen activist who led a Pretoria Girls High protest against the school's hair policy after she was barred from class for having an afro. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Frans Ngobeni, a Member of the EFF Gauteng Provincial Command Team responsible for Education, who have been protesting at the school

Pharmacists can now prescribe medication to patients with HIV and tuberculosis following a recent court Judgment. The Pretoria High Court dismissed an application by  a private doctors' organization, the Independent Practitioners Association (IPA) Foundation - which was challenging a legislation in the Government Gazette that enables pharmacists to prescribe and dispense antiretroviral medicines without a doctor's prescription. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mogologolo Phasha, President of the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC)

Parliament's legal services unit says all the institution's committees are constitutionally obligated to take into account all the public submissions made regarding the Bills tabled before it. It gave its legal advice on the second day of deliberations on the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill. This comes after the Democratic Alliance ( DA) and the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) staged a walk out on the first day of the proceedings, leaving the committee without a quorum. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to ACDP MP Marie Sukers, a member of the portfolio committee on basic education

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa face a bleak future as about 70 percent of them fail to survive beyond the first five years. Those are some of the issues that will be discussed at the Ignite Summit taking place today, aimed at finding lasting solutions to the current challenges faced by SMES. Elvis Presslin spoke to Vannie Pillay, CEO and MD of Oak Tree People Solutions, who says the sector has a potential of creating 90 percent of the needed 11 million jobs

The Multi-Party pact will host its National Convention over the next two days, to establish a political alternative to unseat the ANC-led government. The Democratic Alliance and six other political parties will hold the historic Convention at Emperor's Palace, in Kempton Park, Johannesburg - the same venue where Codesa negotiations were held. The multi-party pact will negotiate a pre-election agreement to inaugurate a new government should the ANC fall below 50% of the popular vote in next year's elections. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Siviwe Gwarube, DA Chief Whip in Parliament

The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union - AMCU - says there will soon be no space to commemorate the site where 34 mineworkers were massacred in Marikana in North West due to encroaching squatter camps. The union says while workers have seen some gains since their protracted strike, much more still needs to be done to better living conditions of workers and communities in mining areas. This year marks eleven years since the killings at Marikana. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Amcu president Joseph Mathunjwa

Victims of the Marikana Massacre are still waiting for justice 11 years on after the tragedy. This according to the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa, SERI which represents the families of 36 striking miners, who were killed by police in August 2012, at a mine in Marikana, North West. As the country marks 11 years since the massacre today, SERI says the state has failed to fathom the impact of the massacre, its cost on families and how they continue to suffer over the years. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to SERI's Executive Director, Nomzamo Zondo

The National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers, NUPSAW will today march to the North West premier's office to demand permanent employment of expanded public works program (EPWP) workers. The Union is expected to hand over a memorandum of demands to the Premier. The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) will form part of today's protest. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to NUPSAW's National Organiser, Sbonile Jeza

The West African bloc ECOWAS has described as surprising the plans of the military junta in Niger to prosecute the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum for high treason. The regional bloc has condemned the move saying it represents yet another form of provocation. This as ECOWAS Military chiefs are set to meet in Ghana tomorrow, to consider the possibility of intervening in the Niger Republic. Niger has been plunged into political crisis after the removal of Bazoum from power in a coup. Elvis Presslin now speaks to Africa Affairs Analyst and Channel Africa's head of the Kiswahili service, Nixon Katembo

Economists say they expect a slight improvement in the number of jobs created in the second quarter of 2023. Stats SA is expected to release the Quarterly Labour Force Survey today (Tuesday). In the first quarter of this year, unemployment was at 32.9-percent.  Trade union federation COSATU Parliamentary Co-coordinator Matthew Parks says they are fearful of the numbers that will come out today due to the current unstable economic conditions in the country. Elvis Presslin spoke to Matthew Parks....

Public Enterprise Minister Pravin Gordhan is demanding a public apology from ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji. This after Malatji accused Gordhan of trying to sell off South Africa's state owned companies including its citizens. Malatji was reacting to the sale of the South African Airways (SAA). Gordhan says he will be meeting with the ANCYL soon. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Mntuwoxolo Ngudle, ANCYL Secretary General

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, OUTA is calling on the City of Johannesburg to suspend bills of over 40 000 ratepayers who objected against the valuation of their properties. OUTA has called into questions the credibility of the city's property valuation method for 2023, the General Valuation Roll. According to OUTA's extended survey to determine property valuation increases by the City, Joburg residential property values have been increased by an average staggering amount of 37%. For more on this issue Elvis Presslin spoke to Outa CEO, Wayne Duvenage

Elvis Presslin chats 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 on the top African economic stories 

UNISA's Student Representative Council has pleaded with Higher Education Minister, Dr. Blade Nzimande to reconsider his decision to place the university under administration. Nzimande announced his decision after receiving and studying a report by an independent assessor that found UNISA failed to fulfill its mandate. The report found evidence of wrongdoing against the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Puleng LenkaBula amongst other things. Elvis Presslin spoke to Consultant and Research Associate with Ali Mazrui Centre at the University of Johannesburg, Ahmed Essop

The South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO is considering filing another court interdict to stop the City of Cape Town from impounding its members' taxis. The association has accused the City of impounding several minibus taxis, despite a recent agreement not to do so. Last week, SANTACO embarked on a week-long strike after the City's traffic officials used a new by-law and the National Land Transportation Act to impound taxis for various offences. The strike left five people dead and many taxi commuters stranded. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to  SANTACO general secretary Ryno Saaiers

The Independent South African National Civic Organization has become the latest political party to join the National Convention by opposition parties. ISANCO broke away from the ANC-aligned South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in 2021 over what it says was the failure to address corruption within the ruling alliance. Alongside the DA, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, UIM and SNP, ISANCO becomes the seventh political party that will attend the upcoming National Convention this week, in Kempton Park, Johannesburg. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to ISANCO President Dr. Zukile Luyenge

Convicted sex trafficker and child rape kingpin Gerhard Ackerman will be sentenced in the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg today. Ackerman was convicted in April for rape and possession of child pornography as well as creating and broadcasting child pornography. He was charged alongside former Acting Judge Paul Kennedy who died by suicide following his arrest. Ackerman was found guilty of over 700 charges for his role in a child sex rape ring. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Marguerite Holtzhusen, the Director of Trauma Centre for Survivors of Violence and Torture.

67 Pakistani nationals who were nabbed during a sting operation at O.R Tambo International Airport have been sent home. Home Affairs Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi says certain nationals are abusing the recently introduced e-Visa system to gain entry into South Africa without complying with immigration laws. Our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri spoke to Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza, about how the 67 Pakistani nationals were intercepted

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa, NUMSA will be marching to the Rustenburg municipality to demand that the municipality must not charge Glencore Smelters a surcharge over and above the approved electricity tariff by NERSA. Currently Eskom is making an application to NERSA for a Negotiated Pricing Agreement (NPA) for Glencore. Numsa says the municipality wishes to charge Glencore an additional surcharge, which is a fee over and above the cost of the NERSA electricity tariff and will ultimately lead to job losses. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to NUMSA's Hlanganani Regional Secretary, Jerry Morulane..

Is former President Jacob Zuma going back to prison? Yesterday Acting Correctional Services Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale was expected to make an announcement around the fate of the former President. In 2021, the Constitutional Court sentenced Zuma to 15 months in prison for contempt for his alleged refusal to appear before the State Capture Commission of Inquiry. Zuma was eventually released on medical parole just two months into his sentence. The High Court and Supreme Court of Appeal subsequently found his release on parole was unlawful. For more, Elvis Presslin spoke to Janho Engelbrecht MP, DA Shadow Minister of Correctional Services.

The ongoing taxi strike in the Western Cape is officially over after an agreement was reached between SANTACO and the City of Cape Town. Scores of learners and educators were unable to go to school after more than a week of disruptions. At least five people were killed during the violence that ensued. Taxi body SANTACO's provincial Chairperson Mandla Hermanus says taxis will resume operations today. Elvis Presslin spoke to Bronagh Hammond, Communication Director for the Western Cape Education Department...

Elvis Presslin speaks to Victor Kgomoeswana, author of  Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back on the top African economic stories. Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo...

The Radebe family is seeking answers after their son died during a fire at Kutama-Sinthumule prison in Makhado, Limpopo. Jackson Radebe, who was serving a sentence for murder at the facility, died after rioting inmates set the privately run prison on fire this week. The Correctional services department says inmates who wanted to be transferred to other facilities in the province, among other complaints started the fire. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Jackson's sister, Lindiwe Radebe...

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for no bail for perpetrators of GBV. Last year, President Ramaphosa signed three new GBV laws aimed at strengthening efforts to curb gender-based violence in South Africa. Nevertheless, how effective have these laws been in fighting GBV since their inception? To discuss this further, Elvis Presslin spoke to Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services

The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has vowed to permanently close all open mine shafts and holes in Riverlea, Johannesburg by the end of September in a bid to curb illegal mining in the area. Law enforcement officers came under heavy gunfire in Matholeville west of Johannesburg during an operation targeted at illegal mining hotspots at the weekend. The operation follows the recent discovery of five bodies believed to be those of illegal miners in Riverlea. The Department's Chief Director for Environmental Management, Andries Moatshe says processes to close the mines are already underway. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Theo Doyle, community member of Riverlea and PR Councillor for Patriotic Alliance in City of Joburg

The Al Jama-ah party is calling on government to revert the Western Cape department of Transport and Community Safety back to national government over its failure to deal with the prolonged taxi strike.  This, as commuters in the province, were once again left stranded as the strike by taxi operators affiliated to Santaco continues. The strike, which started last week, has so far left a trail of destruction - with one person killed and several busses torched. Al Jama-ah has also called for the City of Cape Town's Safety and Security department to be placed under administration. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Al Jama-ah's Member of Provincial Legislature, Maulana Galil Brinkhuis

A fire broke out last night at the Kutama Sinthumule Maximum Security Prison at Louis Trichardt in Limpopo. Two explosions were reportedly heard inside the facility as the fire raged. The public-private owned correctional facility can accommodate more than three-thousand people. The prison has been in operation since 2002. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to our SABC reporter, Michael Makungo

Elvis Presslin spoke to 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 on the current top African economic stories  

The National Liquor Traders Association is hoping for a sober Judgement as the High Court in Polokwane is expected to hear their urgent application to scrap the Limpopo Liquor Act. The new Act which prohibits the sale of alcohol after midnight came into effect in August, this month. The Liquor Traders Association argues the cuts in trading hours negatively affect the industry. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Lucky Ntimane, the National Convener of the Liquor Traders' Association of South Africa

Lobby group AfriForum will be challenging the five-year validity period for driving licences in court today. The organisation will be in the Pretoria High Court today and tomorrow, to demand a declaratory order stating that the five-year validity period of driving licenses is unconstitutional and should be scrapped. Elvis Presslin spoke to Jacques Broodryk, Spokesperson for AfriForum Community Safety... 

Law enforcement officers came under heavy gunfire in Matholeville west of Johannesburg during an operation targeted at illegal mining hotspots at the weekend. The operation follows the discovery of five bodies believed to be that of illegal miners in Riverlea in Johannesburg last weekend. Meanwhile, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has vowed to permanently close all open shafts and holes in Riverlea, Johannesburg by the end of September. Elvis Presslin spoke to Department's Chief Director for Environmental Management, Andries Moatshe... 

Six men accused of the murder of corruption whistleblower Babita Deokaran are expected to appear in the high court in Johannesburg today. The case was postponed last month because one of the accused's advocates was unwell. Deokaran was shot and killed outside her home in Winchester Hills, south of Johannesburg, in August 2021. She was a senior finance official in the Gauteng Health Department. At the time of her murder, she had flagged suspicious payments worth 850 million rand to various companies. The six accused face charges of murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Elvis Presslin spoke to Rudie Heyneke, Investigations Manager at the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse - OUTA...

National Spokesperson for the African Transformation Movement, Zama Ntshona spoke to Elvis Presslin on the dismissal of the National Dialogue on Coalition governments   

Elvis Presslin spoke to Deon Joubert, Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) special envoy for market access and EU matters on the EU's unfair restrictions on South African citrus imports  

Former president Jacob Zuma is appealing an enforcement order granted by the Pietermaritzburg High Court in KwaZulu-Natal. This after Journalist Karyn Maughan and Senior State Advocate Billy Downer's enforcement application was granted - barring Zuma from seeking further private prosecution against them, despite his appeal. Last year, Zuma served Downer and Maughan with summonses to appear in court for private prosecution over claims that Downer illegally leaked his private medical records to Maughan for publication. Downer and Maughan are expected to appear in Court today. Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala... 

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has appeared in a Washington D.C. Federal Court on charges that he sought to subvert the outcome of the 2020 Presidential election. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges as he did on his previous two indictments on separate charges earlier this year. He faces four felony counts - for conspiring to defraud the United States, attempting to and obstructing an official government proceeding and a conspiracy to deprive citizens of their civil rights, in this instance their vote. Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent political analyst Dr Dale McKinley...

Taxi commuters in Cape Town will have to find alternative transport today after the South African National Taxi Council; Santaco in the province suspended all its operations. This after SANTACO announced a stay away until the 9th of August. The Taxi Council has accused the City of Cape Town of trying to kill the Industry by unfairly impounding taxis since January this year. The strike action has also prompted the City to temporarily suspend its MyCiTi bus service. Elvis Presslin spoke to SANTACO Western Cape First Deputy Chairperson, Nceba Enge...

The Durban High Court is today expected to sentence brothers Dylan and Ned Govender for attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and common assault. In May, the accused were found not guilty on a charge of murder of Mondli Majola during the July civil unrest in Phoenix, KwaZulu-Natal in 2021. Majola was among at least 30 people who were believed to have been killed in Phoenix during the unrest. Elvis Presslin spoke to a SABC reporter in KZN, Nonhlakanipho Magwaza...

Looking 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... TALKING POINTS: ***Worldcoin committed to addressing security safety concerns after the suspension ***Angolan airline enters a strategic relationship with SA-based travel consortium ***Nigeria AMCON Recovers 1,6trillion Niara debt in 10 years 

Methane gas has been identified as the cause of the recent explosion that rocked the Johannesburg city centre last month. An investigation found that methane gas was the cause of the deadly Lillian Ngoyi Street (formerly known as Bree Street) explosion that killed one person, and left scores others injured - and caused infrastructure damage worth millions. This was revealed by City of Johannesburg City Manager, Floyd Brink, during a media briefing yesterday. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Nthatisi Modingoane, Deputy Director of Communications at the City of Johannesburg

The National Taxi Alliance is expected to meet today, to discuss a myriad of challenges facing the industry. Among the issues is the Covid-19 Relief Fund, operating licences, and taxi subsidies. Meanwhile, chaos erupted on Tuesday when Cape Town taxi operators blocked roads in the CBD in protest against authorities impounding their vehicles. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the National Taxi Alliance spokesperson Theo Malele

Mpumalanga private security workers affiliated to the South African Transport and Allied Workers' Unions, SATAWU are today expected to march to the Provincial Department of Employment and Labour, to hand over a memorandum of grievances. The SATAWU and other unions have accused employers in the sector, of failing to implement settlements made as part of the National bargaining Council for Private Security Main Collective Agreement, among others. For more on this Satawu's deputy general secretary, Anele Kiet, spoke to Elvis Presslin...

The Electoral Commission is calling for public comment on Regulations supporting the Electoral Amendment Act. The Amendment Act heralds a new framework for the participation of independent candidates in national and provincial elections. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Masego Sheburi, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer for the Independent Electoral Commission, IEC... 

Elvis Presslin spoke to Africa Affairs Analyst and Channel Africa's head of the Kiswahili service, Nixon Katembo on the latest coming out of Niger

Sifiso Meyiwa, the brother of Senzo Meyiwa spoke to Elvis Presslin about what has transpired in court this week

Elvis Presslin spoke to City of Tshwane MMC for health Rina Marx on SAMWU's wage strike

Mbali Shinga, a National Freedom Party, NFP member of the KZN provincial legislature spoke to Elvis Presslin on the killing of Nongoma municipality NFP Councilor Ntombenhle Mchunu

Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpumalanga Hawks spokesperson, Captain Dineo Sekgotodi on a Mpumalanga traffic officer will make her third court appearance today in connection with a failed cash-in-transit heist in Hazyview, last week

DA National Spokesperson Werner Horn speaks to Elvis Presslin on the DA taking, to the United Nations Human Rights Council, EFF leader, Julius Malema for singing "kill the boer, kill the farmer" 

ATM national spokesperson, Zama Ntshona and Elvis Presslin in discussion over ATM challenging acting Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka's Phala Phala report in court

Elvis Presslin spoke to Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, National police spokesperson on the specialized units been deployed to Riverlea to restore law and order

Energy expert Professor Sampson Mamphweli speaks to Elvis Presslin on G7 Renewable Energies says it acknowledges and respects the Court's decision to dismiss its interdict application against Eskom's new rules.

Elvis Presslin discusses the top African Economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back as well as the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) spokesperson Nkuleleko Sityebi spoke to Elvis Presslin on the City of Cape Town's new amended traffic by-law

Associate Professor of Public Affairs in the Department of Public Management at the Tshwane University of Technology, Professor Ricky Mukonza speaks to Elvis Presslin on the ANC League's elective conference this past weekend

Elvis Presslin speaks to Theo Doyle, a PR ward Councillor in the City of Joburg, as well as a community member of Riverlea on the killing of suspected illegal miners in Riverlea 

Afriforum's Chief Executive for Strategy and International Relations, Ernst Roets speaks to Elvis Presslin on EFF Leader Julius Malema's chanting of "kill the boer" at the party's 10th anniversary rally 

NATU Technical Publicity Officer, Mbusi Ngubane speaks to Elvis Presslin on the lack of resources in schools

Matthew Parks, COSATU's Acting National Spokesperson and Parliamentary Coordinator speaks to Elvis Presslin regarding the Employment Equity Act Regulations

Elvis Presslin speaks to Victor Kgomoesoana, author of  "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back" on the top African economic stories...

Alison Tilley, attorney and co-ordinator at Judges Matter speaks to Elvis Presslin on the shortage of judges in South Africa

Elvis Presslin spoke to Khululekile Ncandana who lost his child in the Enyobeni tavern tragedy on today's meeting with SAPS

Elvis Presslin spoke to energy expert and Head of Business Intelligence at HOHM Energy Matthew Cruise on Eskom taken over the load shedding implementation in the City of Ekurhuleni 

SAFTU National Spokesperson, Trevor Shaku spoke to Elvis Presslin on yesterday's meeting with e-hailing drivers

Elvis Presslin spoke to Takatso Consortium Spokesperson, Thulasizwe Simelane on the approval of Takatso Consortium's proposed acquisition of 51% stake in SAA

Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu spoke to Elvis Presslin on three Putco buses from the Soshanguve depot fell victim to a spate of armed robberies yesterday

Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Spokesperson, Sinawo Thambo on the party's tenth anniversary celebration to be held in Marikana, North West today

National Department of Health spokesperson, Foster Mohale speaks to Elvis Presslin regarding another imported case of cholera

DA Western Cape Provincial Leader, Tertuis Simmers speaks to Elvis Presslin on their march against the Employment Equity Amendment Act in Cape Town

Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMWU Gauteng provincial secretary Mpho Tladinyane on the march to Tshwane House today

Mr. Enrique Orta, Cuban Ambassador to South Africa speaks to Elvis Presslin on wanting the United States to remove Cuba from its list of countries sponsoring terrorism

Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Jill Fortuin, Executive Director of Drowning Prevention Services at the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) on today being World Drowning Prevention Day

Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent Defense Analyst, Helmoed Heitman on Defense Minister Thandi Modise saying the defense force is becoming progressively more unsustainable

Elvis Presslin spoke to National Convener of the Liquor Traders' Association of South Africa, Lucky Ntimane on the 'midnight liquor law'

Senior producer Ronald Phiri spoke to Attorney Ulrich Roux about the testimony of the first accused in relation to whether or not the deputy president was present during the alleged assault by VIP members

Elvis Presslin discusses the top African Economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana... 

Elvis Presslin speaks to Political Analyst, Precious Lugayeni on the recently held ANC Women's league conference and the new leadership

 Elvis Presslin spoke to IPID spokesperson Robbie Raburabu on the 8 VIP Protection Unit officers iare expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrates Court today

Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Barbara Boswell, an Associate Professor and Head of Department for English Literary Studies at the University of Cape Town on protests taking place against Kenyan academic Professor Patrick Lumumba's public lecture at the EFF's 10th-year anniversary celebrations today

Elvis Presslin spoke to DA National Spokesperson Werner Horn on its court case in the High Court in Pretoria today - as it seeks legal certainty on the executive's obligations under international law despite Russian President Vladimir Putin not attending next month's BRICS summit 

Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst, Precious Lugayeni on the ANCWL conference scheduled to begin today

Elvis Presslin spoke to Police spokesperson Loraine Earl on Free State police search for an elderly black woman who is seen in a viral video being reportedly tortured by an unknown man

Our Senior Producer Ronald Phiri spoke to Jones Ditsela, a Lawyer at Ditsela Incorporated Attorneys, a law firm specialising in class-action and civil litigation, who says those who are found responsible may be held liable for civil damages arising from the explosion

Elvis Presslin speaks to 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 to look at this week's top African Economic stories....

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has condemned acts of violence and intimidation against its officials at various institutions of higher learning. NSFAS officials who have been deployed to various campuses to facilitate the transition of NSFAS beneficiaries to the direct payment solution, have been subjected to acts and threats of violence by some students on campuses. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to NSFAS spokesperson Slumezi Skosana

A suspected underground massive gas explosion has left a trail of destruction on Bree Street in Johannesburg CBD. A road caved and vehicles were damaged following the reported gas explosion - No fatalities have been reported but the public have been warned to stay clear of the area. For the latest developments Elvis Presslin spoke to Graham Fritz, a secretary of SANTACO in Gauteng, and  Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi

Economists are divided on whether the Reserve Bank will leave interest rates unchanged or increase them by 25-basis points when it makes its announcement on today. This as data released by Stats SA shows the consumer price inflation rate eased from 6,3-percent in May to 5,4-pecent in June 2023. The annual rate of inflation has fallen back within the Reserve Bank's three to six percent target range for the first time in over a year. For analysis Elvis Presslin spoke to Tertia Jacobs, a Treasury Economist at Investec.

The South African Weather Services has warned South Africans to brace themselves for another cold front. The Weather Service issued a Yellow Level Two warning for possible disruptive snow and low temperatures. This is due to a cut-off low for the Southern Parts of the country. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Forecaster at the South African Weather Services, Dipuo Tawana

The Public Service Commission will host a whistleblowers symposium this Friday, as part of safeguarding the protection of whistle-blowers. The commission has highlighted the recent deaths of two prominent whistle-blowers in PPE and Home Affairs scandals as some of the reasons for the Symposium and calls for laws to protect corruption busters. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Public Service Commission Commissioner, Henk Boshoff

Human Rights Watch in Kenya says senior government officials have responded to the resumption of protests by an opposition coalition with threats and hostile rhetoric, heightening political tension. The organisation says Kenya's political leaders should stop the labelling of protesters as terrorists and respect the human rights to assembly and peaceful protest. The opposition coalition had previously called for antigovernment protests between March and May to pressure the government to address the rising cost of living and grievances relating to the August 2022 presidential election. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Human Rights Watch East Africa Director, Otsieno Namwaya

State-owned Transnet has announced that the largest harbour in Africa, the Port of Durban, will be operated and controlled in part by International Container Terminal Services Incorporated, of the Philippines. Transnet will have a 50% plus-one share ownership in a new company that will administer the port for 25 years and work to increase its yearly capacity. Transnet says there were six bids for the contract, including ICTSI, which runs terminals on six different continents. Meanwhile, Unions at Transnet have viewed the deal as attempts to partially privatise Africa's biggest port. To unpack this for us, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr Siyabulela Fobosi, Senior Researcher under UNESCO 'Oliver Tambo' Chair of Human Rights, Faculty of Law, at University of Fort Hare...

Sign language will become the 12th official language in South Africa today. President Cyril Ramaphosa will sign into law the South African Sign Language Bill during a ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Thoriso Mndawe, a Sign Language Interpreter, responsible for Stakeholder Relations at the South African National Deaf Association, SANDA

The Democratic Alliance has welcomed a court judgement ordering President Cyril Ramaphosa to make public his confidential affidavit in relation to an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a judgment delivered yesterday, the court ordered government to publicly declare how it would execute an arrest warrant for Putin should he arrive in South Africa for the BRICS summit In August. The International Criminal Court, issued an arrest warrant for Putin over war crimes in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DA leader, John Steenhuisen

Sentencing proceedings in the 2015 murder case of North West businessman Wandile Bozwana resumes at the High Court sitting in Pretoria today. This after the case was adjourned numerous times ever since the accused were found guilty of murder last year. Taxi boss Vusi "Khekhe" Mathibela and co-accused Sipho Patrick Hudla, Matamela Robert Mutapa and Bonginkosi Paul Khumalo were convicted for Bozwana's brutal murder and will be back in court today for the continuation of sentencing proceedings. Meanwhile, the ANC has maintained over the years that the mastermind for the crime needs to also account. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Ms Sylvia Lucas, a close friend to late Businessman Wandile Bozwana and Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP)

The Nelson Mandela Foundation says it will continue its focus on dealing with poverty and inequality as South Africa marks Mandela Day today. Mandela Day is an annual global celebration that takes place today on the 18th of July in honour of the late statesman's life and legacy. The Foundation and its partners will be capacitating a community food garden in Diepsloot, Johannesburg today as part of the global celebrations. Elvis Presslin spoke to Gushwell Brooks, Head of Mandela Day and Public Outreach at the Nelson Mandela Foundation...

Two statues of the late former President Nelson Mandela will be unveiled in the Eastern Cape today. The statues will be unveiled in Mthatha and his home village of Qunu as part of the Nelson Mandela Day celebrations. Elvis Presslin spoke to Eastern Cape Provincial Government Spokesperson, Khuselwa Ranjtie...

Disgraced celebrity doctor Nandipha Magudumana will learn her fate today - As the Bloemfontein High Court is expected to hand down its judgement on her application for leave to appeal. This comes after the Free State High Court dismissed with costs her application to declare her arrest in Tanzania unlawful. The court found that her arrest in Tanzania was unprocedural but dismissed it because she consented to being brought back to the country to be with her children. Dr Magudumana is the girlfriend of convicted Facebook rapist and murderer Thabo Bester. Elvis Presslin spoke to Melusi Xulu, Managing Director at Donda Attorneys...

Current Top African economic stories ***Ghana- Tullow Ghana limited partners begin Jubilee south-east project oil production ***Access Bank expands reach in Africa -they want to buy Standard Chartered subsidiaries in 5 countries  *** Kenyans to travel Visa-free to Senegal Elvis Presslin spoke to 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 unveiling of the tombstone of the late poet and author Dr Donato Francesco Mattera affectionately known as Bra Don, will take place tomorrow 18th July 2023 at the Westpark Cemetry, Heroes Acre, Beyers Naude Drive, Montgomery Park in Johannesburg from 10.30 am. Elvis Presslin spoke to the Deputy Chairperson of The Don Mattera Legacy Foundation DMLF, Dr Teddy Mattera (Don's Son) 

Questions have been raised about former President Jacob Zuma's departure to Russia for medical treatment. This comes days after the Constitutional Court upheld a ruling by a lower court to set aside Zuma's medical parole. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mzwanele Manyi, Spokesperson for the Jacob Zuma Foundation... 

4 of the 5 suspects arrested in connection with the spate of arson attacks on trucks will appear in the Ermelo magistrate's court, In Mpumalanga today. Four suspects were arrested in Mpumalanga and another in Limpopo. Meanwhile, the South African Defence Force has been deployed in areas identified as hotspots, after 20 trucks were set alight last week in Mpumalanga, KZN, Limpopo and the Free State. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpumalanga provincial Community Safety, Security and Liaison spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi...

The Democratic Alliance has accused the Eastern Cape Health Department of paying 67 million rand in salaries to the Orsmond Tuberculosis Hospital staff, despite this hospital being closed to patients for almost 2 years. In response to a DA parliamentary question the department acknowledged that while the hospital has had no patients for almost two years, 45 medical employees have been paid for no work. Elvis Presslin spoke to Jane Cowley, a Member of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature...

Readers surveyed by UK's newspaper, The Telegraph, have named South Africa as the greatest country on earth to visit, and Cape Town the best city.  South Africa toppled New Zealand out of its ten-year running top spot position. The Telegraph Travel Awards stretch to 20 categories, covering everything from airlines and cruise operators to hotel groups and ski companies. Elvis Presslin spoke to Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, the CEO of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa

The Constitutional Court has ruled that former President Jacob Zuma must return to prison to finish his sentence. The apex court dismissed with costs the application by Correctional Services for leave to appeal against a Supreme Court of Appeal ruling regarding Zuma's medical parole. The Appeals court found that Zuma was granted medical parole unlawfully by correctional services boss, Arthur Fraser. The apex court's decision means that the Supreme Court's ruling still stands in that Zuma must return to prison. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal Expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

Lawyers representing Dr Nandipha Magudumana will be appealing the dismissal of her application to set aside her arrest directly to the Supreme Court of Appeal today. The legal team is challenging a High Court ruling, which dismissed Magudumana's urgent application to have her arrest in Tanzania declared unlawful. Meanwhile the National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale has refuted claims that Magudumana is receiving preferential treatment at the women's facility in Kroonstad in the Free State. For a preview on the case Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter Aphumelele Mdlalane

The African Transformation Movement, ATM remains steadfast in its view that President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to suspend Advocate Mkhwebane was retaliatory and irrational in nature. This after the Constitutional Court overturned a High Court ruling that declared Mkhwebane's suspension invalid. In a unanimous judgment, the apex court found that President Ramaphosa stood to gain nothing by suspending the public protector. The ATM maintains the move to suspend Advocate Mkhwebane was prompted by her decision to institute an investigation against the President. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to ATM Spokesperson, Zama Ntshona

Members of the Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union (Haitu) will today march to the offices of the Limpopo Department of Health. The union is demanding that health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba fill all outstanding vacancies in healthcare in the province. They also want the MEC to ensure that contract workers employed during the Covid-19 pandemic, be reinstated. The union says the department has terminated over 700 nursing posts in the province. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union 1st Deputy President, Mulatedzi Ramaano

Time to take 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 Congress Of the People (COPE) has been de-registered with the Companies Intellectual Property Commission - CIPC under the Companies Act. The de-registration however does not impact on the party's standing with the Independent Electoral Commission as it remains registered as a political party. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Cope spokesperson Dennis Bloem

Parliament will consider 38 candidates to succeed suspended Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. The Ad Hoc Committee to nominate the next public protector says it has received 70 nominations and applications for the position but 32 nominations were rejected due to nominators failing to comply with the requirements as stipulated in the advertisement. The term of office of Advocate Mkhwebane who is currently fighting her impeachment in parliament - ends in October. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Cyril Xaba, Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee to nominate the next public protector

The ANC Youth League in the Eastern Cape will convene its two-day Provincial Congress starting today. The 7th Provincial Congress will be held at the East London International Convention Centre in Buffalo City Metro under the theme "Economic Freedom and Social Change, Now and not later ". The provincial league is reconvening its Congress again after ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula rejected the new leadership of the party's Youth League in the Eastern Cape - declaring the Congress non-compliant. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Youth League provincial convener, Ms. Balungile Sapo

The South African Union of Students (SAUS) has condemned the manner in which the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) handled the payment of student allowances. This week, students at the Tshwane University of Technology blockaded the entrance into the University's Pretoria West Campus in protest against the eZaga app that facilitates monthly allowances to students. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SAUS National Spokesperson Asive Dlanjwa

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille will conduct an oversight visit to various sites within the Kruger National Park to inspect investment projects by the Department of Tourism and the private sector. Minister de Lille will engage the SANParks Management on general tourism matters as well as safety issues in and around the Kruger National Park. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to SANParks, spokesperson Ike Phaaphla

Inkatha Freedom Party chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal Thami Ntuli has hailed the service delivery pact that the party has signed with the Democratic Alliance as a turning point in provincial politics. The two parties have signed the agreement to work together in hung municipalities across the province. Both parties say their ultimate aim is to dislodge the ANC from power. There are at least 18 hung municipalities in the province. For more on this IFP's provincial chairperson Thami Ntuli spoke to Elvis Presslin

World Athletics has insisted its rules on differences in sex development will remain in place, despite the European Court of Human Rights ruling that they discriminated against two-time Olympic champion, Caster Semenya. Semenya, won the court battle in her fight to compete without taking drugs to lower her testosterone levels. She had approached the court 2021 after losing appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and the Swiss Federal Tribunal. Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Letlhogonolo Mokgoroane, in house counsel at the Centre of Applied Legal Studies (CALS)

The EFF in parliament is calling for consideration for parole for prisoners over the age of 60 who are doing a life sentence. The EFF was responding to Correctional Services statement that there are 744 prisoners aged 60 and above who are serving life sentences. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Vusumuzi Khoza, EFF MP and member of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police

The Constitutional Court is expected to hand down Judgment today in OUTA's constitutional challenge to the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, AARTO and the AARTO Amendment Act. The challenge of the introduction of a new strict demerit system for traffic infringements follows last year's High Court ruling which declared parts of the legislation unconstitutional. Judgment in the matter was reserved pending confirmation from the Constitutional Court later today. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa), Wayne Duvenage

Johannesburg City Power together with Eskom will soon be rolling out electricity smart meters. The smart meters will reportedly allow customers to switch on and off their geysers remotely. The smart meter project is already underway in parts of Northern Johannesburg. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Joburg City Power Spokesperson, Isaac Mangena

Three trucks were torched by unknown suspects along the R574 road between Lydenburg and Sekhukhune in Limpopo. Police say a group of six gunmen stopped the truck drivers, ordered them to disembark and proceeded to set their trucks alight before fleeing the scene. The incident follows the torching of 12 trucks in separate incidents in Mpumalanga and Kwazulu-Natal. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the President of Truckers Association of South Africa, Mary Phadi j

Management of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS have met with the South African Students Congress, SASCO to discuss some of their grievances over the implementation of NSFAS's new app. Yesterday Tshwane University of Technology students blockaded the entrance into the University's Pretoria West Campus in protest against the eZaga app that facilitates monthly allowances to students. They say the introduction of the digital banking service last month has been a challenge, with many students yet to receive their June and July allowances. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to NSFAS spokesperson Slumezi Skosana

Rand Water says it is still going ahead with its planned water shutdown today despite the adverse weather conditions in Gauteng. Speaking to our Senior producer Ronald Phiri earlier on, Rand Water spokesperson Makenosi Maroo says the 58-hour planned water shutdown will be undertaken from Tuesday night to Friday morning despite the recent snow fall in the province...

Several truck drivers have been attacked and their vehicles set alight in the past few days. Yesterday 3 trucks were torched in Limpopo and this past weekend, six trucks were set ablaze on the N3 in KwaZulu-Natal, while another five were torched in Mpumalanga on the same day. So what's behind this spate of arson attacks on trucks? To shed light into the sporadic attacks, which seem to be highly-targeted and coordinated, Elvis Presslin spoke to Lungile Toyi, Spokesperson for truck drivers

Time to take 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

Former Northern Cape MEC of Transport, Roads and Public Work, John Block is expected to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court today after new charges were pressed against him. The new charges emanate from his alleged part in the awarding of a tender for the construction of the Kimberley Mental Health Hospital in 2003 - costing tax payers over R1 billion. Block is serving a 15-year jail term for fraud, corruption and money laundering in the Trifecta case. Elvis Presslin spoke to our SABC reporter Karabo Siyoko in Kimberly

Political party Xiluva has officially registered with the Independent Electoral Commission, IEC.  The party founded by former Mayor of Midvaal, Bongani Baloyi will appear on the ballot paper in next year's general election. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Bongani Baloyi, Leader of Xiluva...  

President Cyril Ramaphosa says there are no plans to remove Paul Mashatile as his deputy. This follows claims by Mashatile of an alleged plot to remove him from office, before August this year. Responding to the allegations during an engagement with members of the media at the ANC's National Executive Committee meeting at the weekend, Ramaphosa says he spoke to Mashatile and assured him there no plans to this effect. Elvis Presslin spoke to Professor Nontsikelelo Breakfast, Senior lecture at the Nelson Mandela University Centre for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolutions

Temperatures are plummeting as a cold front has hit parts of the country. The South African Weather Service has cautioned residents across the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Gauteng and KZN to brace themselves for freezing temperatures as the cold front sweeps across the country. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Weather Service Forecaster, Lulama Pheme

Convicted former police officer and serial killer, Rosemary Ndlovu has been internally charged by the Department of Correctional Services after she was caught in possession of a cellphone in prison. Ndlovu made headlines in 2018 when she was arrested and later jailed for orchestrating the murders of six family members to receive insurance payouts. She is serving multiple life terms for murder. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Correctional Services Department Spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo

Labour union Bemawu says it will seek a meeting with the recently appointed SABC board following reports that the public broadcaster is once again on the brink of financial collapse and may not be able to pay staff salaries in the near future. Media reports have suggested that the SABC may suffer the same fate as the state-owned Post Office, which has been placed under provisional liquidation. To elaborate further on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the president of BEMAWU, Hannes du Buisson

Today is the last day for the public to submit to Parliament their nominations of suitable candidates for the position of Public Protector. The position will become vacant on the 15th of October when the seven-year term of the currently suspended Public Protector, Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, comes to an end. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Al Jama-ah President Ganief Hendricks, who is also a member of the Ad Hoc Committee to nominate a person for appointment as Public Protector, who has raised concern about the nomination process for the next Public Protector

Operation Dudula members will today embark on a march to the Home Affairs department to call for the mass deportation of illegal immigrants. The call follows a recent High Court Judgment which declared Home Affairs Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi's decision to terminate the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Nhlanhla Nyandeni, Deputy President of the iZimbokodo of Operation Dudula

Time to take 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 Kimberley Action Group will today lead a march to the office of the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality Executive Mayor Kagisho Sonyoni, to demand his resignation. The group  raised concerns over the recent electricity tariff hikes implemented by the municipality, citing the detrimental impact it will have on the already struggling business sector. Electricity tariffs have been increased by 15 percent  effective 1st July 2023. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the founder and Coordinator of the Kimberley Action Group, Boyce Makodi

South African dads are facing mounting debt, as many strive to provide the best life for their families. In a society where financial pressures weigh heavily on families; it is crucial to acknowledge the often-overlooked role of fathers in managing household finances. CEO of National Debt Advisors, Charnel Collins, says that many dads are struggling with increasing debt to secure their family's' future. The latest industry insights from the Eighty20 Credit Stress Report for 2023 reveals concerning statistics on South African consumer debt. Elvis Presslin spoke to Quinton Ramohlabi, Quality Insurer at National Debt Advisors

The Congress of South African Trade Unions, Cosatu will today embark on a national strike action, as part of its National Day of Action. The federation and its 16 affiliated unions will be protesting against socio-economic factors and several other issues affecting workers. The protest action is set to take place in all nine provinces. Meanwhile, the South African Federation of Trade Unions, SAFTU say they will not join today's strike despite the invitation by COSATU. Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU General Secretary Solly Phetoe

Three Defense Force trainees have opened cases of assault against the VIP Protection Unit officers that assaulted them on the N1 freeway in Johannesburg on Monday. This was done with the assistance of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate at the Sandton police station. The policemen are attached to Deputy President Paul Mashatile's VIP security team. In the video that has gone viral, police are seen assaulting a motorist and passengers of a vehicle. For the latest Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent Police Investigative Directorate National Spokesperson, Robbie Raburabu

An investigation by the Special Investigating Unit has revealed that the Department of Human Settlements in Mpumalanga has paid a service provider for the installation of water storage tanks at a cost of 5 million rand each. The SIU says while the prices were grossly inflated, it also discovered that the water storage tanks in question were not operational. For more on this Freddy Ngobe, Head of Communication at the Mpumalanga Department of Human Settlements spoke to Elvis Presslin

Joburg Water is urging its customers to stock up water this weekend before Rand Water's planned interruption next week. The planned water shutdown will commence from the 11th to the 13th of July. Joburg Water Spokesperson, Nombuso Tshabalala spoke to our senior producer Ronald Phiri about the purpose of the shutdown.

The City of Tshwane says its planning to hold an urgent meeting with Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu on Rand Water's water challenges. Rand Water has been struggling to recover its systems due to a series of power outages in the city. The power failures have left residents in several parts of Tshwane without water. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Tshwane MMC for Utility Services Water and Electricity, Themba Fosi

Calls are mounting for Deputy President Paul Mashatile's security detail to be brought to justice following an alleged assault on military trainees. In a now viral video, members of Mashatile's VIP protection unit were recorded assaulting a motorist and passengers on the N1 in Johannesburg, near Sandton at the weekend. Mashatile's office has promised to reach out to the victims of the N1 highway assault. So what legal recourse can the victims pursue in this respect? To answer this, Elvis Presslin spoke to Godrich Gardee, Director and Attorney at Gardee Godrich Attorneys Incorporated.

The Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services has 30 days to pay a R5 million fine, for breaching the Protection of Personal Information Act, POPIA. This after the Department was issued a fine by the Information Regulator for failing to renew its anti-virus and IT security solutions licenses. In 2021, the Department suffered a security compromise on its IT systems, leading to all its information systems being breached. For more more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson for the Justice Ministry

The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) in Limpopo, says it is gravely disappointed by the provincial Health department's decision to terminate the contracts for over 700 nurses. The union says this will aggravate the shortage of nurses and other healthcare workers in various facilities across the province. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to DENOSA Provincial Chairperson Lesiba Monyaki

The Durban High Court is expected to sentence brothers Dylan and Ned Govender for attempted murder of Mondli Majola during the 2021 civil unrest in Phoenix, KwaZulu-Natal. In May, the accused were found not guilty for the charge of murder. However they were found guilty on a charge of attempted murder and assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm. Majola was among at least 30 people who were believed to have been killed in Phoenix at that time. To recap on the case Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC reporter, Nonjabulo Makamu

City Power says it will take two months to restore electricity to Diepkloof hostels in Soweto. The City of Johannesburg's electricity distribution company, held a meeting with hostel indunas yesterday following a visit by Joburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda to the hostels last week. His visit followed a violent protest by residents last week, over electricity, water and basic sanitation. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to Councilor of Ward 26 in Diepkloof, Sthembiso Mashinini.

Opposition parties are expected to hold a convention in August in efforts to unseat the ANC in next year's election. The leaders of seven political parties who form part of the 'Moonshot Pact' will hold a National Convention to negotiate an agreement ahead of the 2024 national elections. The pact, proposed by the DA at its federal congress in April, envisages a coalition of all parties opposed to the prospect of a governing ANC-EFF coalition. The parties say have agreed on an agenda that will guide negotiations at the Convention to ensure that they emerge with the strongest possible agreement. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Freedom Front Plus Chief Whip in Parliament, Dr Corné Mulder

Police are searching for victims who were allegedly assaulted by members of the South African Police Service on a highway in Gauteng. In a viral video a VIP protection police unit can be seen assaulting a motorist and passengers on the N1 highway near Woodmead, north of Johannesburg. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Police spokesperson brigadier Athlenda Mathe

The Gauteng High Court has set aside the Moti Group's gag order preventing amaBhungane investigative unit from continuing its exposés on the Group. The Moti Group approached the High Court to prevent amaBhungane from publishing further articles into alleged suspicious business dealings at the company. The Moti Group claimed amaBhungane was illegally in possession of its leaked documents and wanted them returned. The court found the Moti Group's application to prevent amaBhungane from using the company's leaked files was an abuse of the court's process. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to SANEF executive director, Reggy Moalusi