First Take SA

ActionSA hits out against a R16 million fleet procurement scandal
ActionSA has hit out at Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo for allegedly shielding Emfuleni Local Municipality over a R16 million fleet procurement scandal. The party says the municipality paid for 17 cars but received only six, with one later vanishing, yet provided no proper answers on investigations or recovery of the funds. ActionSA is accusing the MEC of allegedly accepting a copied-and-pasted response from the municipal manager that simply cited "internal processes" instead of opening a criminal case as required by law. Elvis Presslin spoke to Action SA's Gauteng Caucus Leader, Funzi Ngobeni to elaborate further about their concerns and Emfuleni Local Municipality spokesperson, Makhosonke Sangweni

FEDUSA and COSATU are pushing back against a 9.5% increase in GEMS contributions, calling it unaffordable for public servants. Labour unions say the hike deepens financial strain amid a cost-of-living crisis. GEMS has proceeded with the increase despite union objections. FEDUSA says the issue reflects a broader national concern about the affordability of healthcare, as many South Africans are increasingly forced to downgrade or abandon medical cover altogether. Elvis Presslin spoke to Joseph Mashigo, FEDUSA Chief Negotiator at the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC)

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 African Transformation Movement, ATM has lodged an impeachment motion against President Cyril Ramaphosa. This follows a report by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate on the Phala Phala farm theft probe. The party alleges a cover-up involving senior police officers, including General Wally Rhoode. The motion is now with National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zama Ntshona, ATM National Spokesperson

Pope Leo has begun an 11-day African tour with a visit to Algeria, the first by a Catholic pontiff. The trip aims to promote peace, interfaith dialogue and highlight Africa's growing importance to the Church. The Pope is expected to address issues like migration, stability and corruption. Despite Algeria having a small Catholic population, the visit is seen as a powerful gesture of unity between Christians and Muslims. Elvis Presslin spoke to Father Hugh O'Connor, Secretary General of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference