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First Take SA

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9:44

14 SA Youths Face Deportation from Thailand

First Take SA ·

2026/01/07

A group of 14 South African youths, lured to Thailand with promises of employment are facing deportation today after being detained for allegedly being victims of human trafficking. The group was reportedly recruited by a South African male and their situation has sparked concerns about the safety and well-being of South Africans abroad. Elvis Presslin spoke to Security Strategist and retired Interpol Ambassador, Andy Mashaile

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4:48

Suspect Arrested After Half-Naked Teens Rescued in...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/07

A 47-year-old foreign national has been arrested in Johannesburg's CBD on suspicion of human trafficking. The man was detained after police intercepted a vehicle and rescued two teenage boys, and another 10 were found walking half-naked on Broad Street in Mulbarton. The suspect will appear in court tomorrow (Thursday) facing charges of being an illegal immigrant and suspected trafficking in persons. Elvis Presslin spoke to Hawks Spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale

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12:04

SA Early Childhood Development System in Crisis -...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/07

SA's ECD system facing a crisis South Africa's early childhood development (ECD) system is facing a crisis, with millions of children being left behind due to a lack of access to quality early learning. Researcher Lesego Mahlangu says the system is plagued by class divisions, underfunding and inadequate infrastructure, perpetuating inequality and limiting opportunities for young children. To elaborate further on her sentiments Lesego Mahlangu spoke to Elvis Presslin

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7:18

Heathfield High Principal Reinstated After Labour...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/07

The Labour Court has ruled in favour of Councillor Wesley Neumann, reinstating him as Principal of Heathfield High School. Neumann, a GOOD Party councillor, was dismissed in 2022 for keeping schools closed during the Covid-19 pandemic due to safety concerns. The court deemed the dismissal "disproportionate" and unfair. The Western Cape Education Department is reviewing the judgment and considering an appeal. Neumann's lawyer Advocate Vernon Seymour spoke to our senior producer Ronald Phiri about the

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10:16

SACP Marks Annual Joe Slovo Commemoration in Soweto

First Take SA ·

2026/01/06

The South African Communist Party, SACP will hold its annual commemoration for struggle icon Joe Slovo today in Soweto. SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila is set to deliver the keynote address at the Heroes' Acre in Avalon Cemetery. Alliance partners, including representatives from the ANC and Cosatu, are expected to attend the event.This comes against a backdrop of ongoing strains in the tripartite alliance, particularly over the SACP's plans to contest the upcoming local government elections

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10:37

Maduro Pleads Not Guilty in US Court

First Take SA ·

2026/01/06

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has pleaded not guilty to charges of narco-terrorism, cocaine importation conspiracy, and possession of machine guns in a New York federal court. Maduro was captured by US forces in Caracas on Saturday and transported to the US for trial. During his court appearance, Maduro claimed he was "kidnapped" and remains Venezuela's legitimate president. Maduro's wife, Cilia Flores, also pleaded not guilty to related charges. The couple faces decades to life in

en-US

7:12

Joburg Water Shutdown: 54 Hours, 7-Day Recovery

First Take SA ·

2026/01/06

A 54-hour water shutdown is set to begin in Johannesburg from today at 4pm, with the city warning it could take seven days to fully recover. The shutdown is part of Rand Water's planned maintenance programme, affecting areas including Roodepoort, Fleurhof, Doornkop, Meadowlands and Braamfischerville. Executive Mayor Dada Morero says residents should store water and use it sparingly during this time. Elvis Presslin spoke to WaterCan Communications Manager, Jonathan Erasmus

en-US

11:35

Structured Goal-Setting Key as 2026 Academic Year...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/06

As the 2026 academic year kicks off, education experts are emphasizing the importance of structured goal-setting for learners. According to Ntsako Mhlanga, founder of Learnergy, many students struggle due to unclear goals, poor routines, and limited accountability. Mhlanga advises parents and guardians to help learners set clear, subject-based academic goals, focus on routine and consistency and schedule regular academic check-ins. Education entrepreneur and Founder of Learnergy, Ntsako Mhlanga

en-US

12:41

NUMSA condemns military attack on Venezuela

First Take SA ·

2026/01/05

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has strongly condemned the US military attack on Venezuela. NUMSA has called the attack an "undemocratic, dictatorial, and unilateral attack" on the Democratic Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. NUMSA accuses US President Donald Trump of being a "savage, ruthless bully and champion of colonialism and imperialism" and calls on Americans to hold him accountable. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to NUMSA Spokesperson, Phakamile

en-US

7:11

FF Plus Welcomes Capture of Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro

First Take SA ·

2026/01/05

FF Plus leader Dr. Corné Mulder has welcomed the news of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's capture, stating that the end of the socialist failure in Venezuela should be celebrated. Mulder says the strong condemnation from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the ANC minister doesn't represent his party's views or those of all South Africans. Maduro was captured by US Delta Force in a pre-dawn operation and is facing federal narco-terrorism charges in New

en-US

6:54

Frustration by Prolonged Power Outages and Ongoing...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/05

Residents of Soshanguve and East Lynne in Tshwane are expressing frustration and anger after enduring prolonged electricity outages since December, followed by water disruptions. The City of Tshwane says it's working around the clock to restore power, but residents claim little progress has been made, with some areas still without electricity. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Tshwane Metro Leader, Cilliers Brink

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5:46

Thousands of Travellers Continue to Cross into South...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/05

Thousands of travellers are still crossing into South Africa at the Beitbridge Border Post, with many returning to work after travelling to neighbouring countries for the festive season. The Border Management Authority (BMA) is warning travellers to have all required documents ready, as lawlessness will not be tolerated. The BMA has deployed drone technology to strengthen border control and manage the increased flow of people. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Mike Masiapato Commissioner, of the Border

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5:31

South African Inmates Accuse Correctional Services...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/05

Inmates in South African prisons have written to EFF leader Julius Malema, accusing Correctional Services Minister Dr. Pieter Groenewald of racism and subjecting them to "cruel and inhumane" conditions. The inmates claim conditions have worsened under Groenewald, with limited phone access, poor diet, and few parole releases. They're urging Malema to take legal action to have Groenewald's appointment declared unconstitutional, citing alleged racist ideologies and policies. To further discuss this

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8:07

South African Activist Groups Condemn US Bombing of...

First Take SA ·

2026/01/05

South African activist groups have strongly condemned the United States' bombing of Venezuela, describing it as a "violent act of US military aggression". Africa4Palestine and Anti-Fascist International alleges the attack is motivated by Venezuela's oil and rare earth minerals. The country's President Nicolas Maduro has been captured by US forces. Elvis Presslin spoke to Board Member of Africa4Palestine, Muhammed Desai

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10:37

New NDPP Appointment Under Scrutiny

First Take SA ·

2025/12/15

The appointment of the new National Director of Public Prosecutions, NDPP is under scrutiny, with calls for the process to remain apolitical. The current state of the NPA is a concern, with crucial cases being lost, including those related to corruption, rape, and state capture. Activists and the Citizens Forum are urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to prioritize the country's interests over party politics when making the appointment. The NPA has faced challenges, with the State Capture Report

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9:33

The Year in Review: Key Political Moments That...

First Take SA ·

2025/12/15

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on the key political events that defined South Africa. The Government of National Unity endured amid intense negotiations and disputes over budget and policy differences, following the ANC's historic loss of majority in 2024. President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted the landmark G20 summit in Johannesburg, the first on African soil, though US President Donald Trump boycotted it, citing unfounded claims of white genocide. Explosive revelations from Lieutenant General

en-US

4:37

No-Confidence Vote Looms for KZN Premier Thami Ntuli

First Take SA ·

2025/12/15

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli faces a critical test today as a motion of no confidence against him is put to a vote in the provincial legislature. The motion, brought by the MK Party, cites allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption. Ntuli, however remains unfazed, insisting his government is stable and focused on service delivery. The EFF has announced its support for the motion, which could potentially unseat Ntuli. Elvis Presslin spoke to KZN Provincial Legislature IFP Caucus

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5:46

SALGA Urges Treasury to Release Funds Owed to 75...

First Take SA ·

2025/12/15

The South African Local Government Association, SALGA is urging the National Treasury to release funds owed to 75 municipalities. The National Treasury reportedly withheld the Local Government Equitable Share due to non-compliance with financial regulations. SALGA argues that the Treasury didn't follow proper procedures and didn't provide clear communication to municipalities, making it hard for them to comply. Elvis Presslin spoke to Lerato Phasha, SALGA's Portfolio Head for Municipal Finance,

en-US

6:42

Teddy Bear Clinic Urges Child Safety as School...

First Take SA ·

2025/12/15

As the school holidays get underway, The Teddy Bear Clinic for Abused Children has called on parents and caregivers to prioritize child safety. Clinical Director Shaheda Omar says while the festive season is a time for celebration, it's also a period of increased risk for young people. With the festive season in full swing, Our senior producer Ronald Phiri spoke to Ms. Omar, about how to keep a watchful eye on your little ones

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19:52

UAT Wants GNU Dissolved Over Infighting and Policy...

First Take SA ·

2025/12/12

The United Africans Transformation, UAT party is calling for the dissolution of the Government of National Unity, citing its inability to function effectively due to internal conflicts and policy disagreements. The party says the GNU is a "coalition in chaos", unable to provide stable leadership or deliver on its promises. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mighty Mabule, UAT National Spokesperson

en-US

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