First Take SA

Schizophrenia relapse remains a major challenge in South Africa, with about one in three patients experiencing a recurrence within the first year of diagnosis. While this is often blamed on patients not taking their medication, new research from Stellenbosch University suggests the issue runs much deeper, pointing to social, economic, and healthcare system challenges as key drivers. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Retha Smit, a researcher involved in the study, to unpack these findings.

The South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO has urged South Africans to push for immigration reform only through legal and peaceful channels. The taxi council says it backs stronger border controls and proper documentation but strongly opposes any mass action that could block roads or disrupt transport services. We spoke to Rebecca Phala, SANTACO's National Spokesperson.

The Malawian government has sent additional buses to Durban to repatriate thousands of its nationals sheltering in the city. The move comes as displaced Malawians remain camped near the Refugee Reception Centre on Moore Road following anti-immigration protests and failed plans to relocate them to Sherwood Hall. KZN Premier, Thami Ntuli says a steering committee will now oversee the repatriation process. For more we spoke to Human Rights and Governance advocate in Malawi, Undule Mwakasungula.

The Democratic Alliance will today hand over a petition to Eskom, opposing planned power cuts in Johannesburg. Last month Eskom issued notice of its intention to reduce, interrupt or terminate electricity supply to parts of Joburg over an unpaid debt of R5.2 billion owed by the City and City Power. The party say residents and businesses should not suffer for the City's unpaid debt to the power utility. For more we spoke to DA Johannesburg Regional Chairperson, Luyolo Mphithi.

Justice Deputy Minister Andries Nel visited the Virtual Priority Court for immigration cases at Durban Magistrates Court yesterday. The court is part of government's plan to speed up immigration cases and enforce laws more tightly. That plan was announced in the State of the Nation Address and approved by Cabinet earlier this year. Nel said the focus is ensuring all people entering South Africa do so lawfully.