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)

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)

News and Current Affairs show between 5 & 6 am on SAfm 104 to 107 anchored by Tsepiso Makwetla

First Take SA

A weekly news and current affairs show presented by Elvis Presslin on SAfm 104 to 107 from 5:00 to 6:00 am.

A weekly news and current affairs show presented by Elvis Presslin on SAfm 104 to 107 from 5:00 to 6:00 am.

FEDUSA and COSATU push back against 9.5% increase in GEMS contributions

In late June, public health experts warned that an unlawful anti-migrant deadline could spark a crisis, and that warning has now become reality. Within days, tens of thousands of people were displaced by violence or its threat and processed through sites like Musina and the Beitbridge border post. Despite the South African government's rapid response, serious concerns remain about overcrowding, poor sanitation, disrupted medical care, and rising psychological trauma. Today, we unpack the public health implications of this crisis and what must be done to protect lives and uphold constitutional rights. We spoke to Prof Hassan Mahomed, a public health specialist in solidarity with Healthcare Workers Against Xenophobia (HCWAX).

In late June, public health experts warned that an unlawful anti-migrant deadline could spark a crisis, and that warning has now become reality. Within days, tens of thousands of people were displaced by violence or its threat and processed through sites like Musina and the Beitbridge border post. Despite the South African government's rapid response, serious concerns remain about overcrowding, poor sanitation, disrupted medical care, and rising psychological trauma. Today, we unpack the public health implications of this crisis and what must be done to protect lives and uphold constitutional rights. We spoke to Prof Hassan Mahomed, a public health specialist in solidarity with Healthcare Workers Against Xenophobia (HCWAX).

Unpacking implications of disrupted medical care and rising psychological trauma of migrants affected by recent protests. 

A South African court has handed down judgment in the extradition case of Zimbabwean activist Wellington Masiwa, also known as Comrade Nyoka-yema-bhunu. Masiwa is a vocal critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa but Zimbabwe says the request relates to fraud charges and not politics. The case has sparked debate over extradition law, political asylum and the protection of activists in South Africa. In an exclusive interview from the holding cells, Masiwa spoke to Producer Tracey Boomgaard about his arrest and time in the country.

A South African court has handed down judgment in the extradition case of Zimbabwean activist Wellington Masiwa, also known as Comrade Nyoka-yema-bhunu. Masiwa is a vocal critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa but Zimbabwe says the request relates to fraud charges and not politics. The case has sparked debate over extradition law, political asylum and the protection of activists in South Africa. In an exclusive interview from the holding cells, Masiwa spoke to Producer Tracey Boomgaard about his arrest and time in the country.

 SA court hands down judgment in the extradition case of Zimbabwean activist Wellington Masiwa

The Madlanga Commission has hit another delay after IDAC Head Advocate Andrea Johnson was rushed to hospital yesterday. Her legal team submitted a medical certificate, while North West businessman Suliman Carrim will also miss Wednesday's sitting as he continues to receive treatment reportedly outside Gauteng. Suspended Deputy Crime Intelligence Head Major-General Feroz Khan and Mike van der Walt are among witnesses still waiting to testify after being hospitalised. The repeated postponements have led South Africans to question whether delays are becoming a pattern at the inquiry. We spoke to IFP Chief Whip, Nhlanhla Hadebe.

The Madlanga Commission has hit another delay after IDAC Head Advocate Andrea Johnson was rushed to hospital yesterday. Her legal team submitted a medical certificate, while North West businessman Suliman Carrim will also miss Wednesday's sitting as he continues to receive treatment reportedly outside Gauteng. Suspended Deputy Crime Intelligence Head Major-General Feroz Khan and Mike van der Walt are among witnesses still waiting to testify after being hospitalised. The repeated postponements have led South Africans to question whether delays are becoming a pattern at the inquiry. We spoke to IFP Chief Whip, Nhlanhla Hadebe.

FEDUSA and COSATU push back against 9.5% increase in GEMS contributions

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