First Take SA

A look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back

The Cradle of Humankind in Mogale City, Johannesburg is facing ongoing sewage pollution due to repeated failures at the Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Plant. Untreated and partially treated sewage has been flowing into nearby rivers, raising concerns over ecological damage and risks to underground cave systems holding human evolutionary fossils. The Democratic Alliance says the situation reflects a governance failure that is harming tourism, livelihoods and South Africa's international obligations.The party is now calling on Gauteng's COGTA MEC to urgently intervene. We spoke to Leanne De Jager, MPL and DA Gauteng Spokesperson for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation.

Former President Jacob Zuma has instructed lawyers to appeal a Pietermaritzburg High Court ruling that the Arms Deal trial must continue without further delays. Judge Nkosinathi Chili granted the State's "Stop Stalingrad" application, ordering Zuma and a Thales representative to appear in person when proceedings start in February next year. We spoke to the Jacob Zuma Foundation's spokesperson, Mzwanele Manyi.

The Democratic Alliance has welcomed the removal of Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe from Cabinet, saying the decision follows sustained pressure from the party for accountability. The DA argues that Tolashe's position had become untenable and has praised President Cyril Ramaphosa for taking action. However, the party is now calling for urgency in appointing a permanent replacement at the Department of Social Development. We spoke to Nazley Sharif, DA Social Development spokesperson to discuss what this development means going forward.

AfriForum has asked the City of Johannesburg to explain a proposed 65.6% increase to its water demand management levy, warning it may be unlawful and unfair to residents. The levy would rise from R65.08 to R107.74 per month for domestic users under the 2026/27 draft tariffs now open for comment. AfriForum says the city must show how the increase was calculated and whether it meets legal requirements for transparency and cost-reflectivity. Wer spoke to AfriForum's advisor for Environmental Affairs, Marais de Vaal.