Devoted Magazine Issue 43

WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF MEDIA ETHICS?

HOW IS AI IMPACTING US ?

NOW IS THE TIME TO TRANSFORM SOUTH AFRICA

RESTORED LIVES

IT’S TIME TO RESTORE OUR COUNTRY

THINK BEFORE YOU INK!

IS SA A DIVIDED COUNTRY?

MAGAZINE

Devoted

If you want to read inspiring stories of real-life experiences that will uplift you, Devoted is an online wellness magazine focusing on mind, body and soul. It is a Good News publication aimed to change the negative narrative. Devoted provides authentic and honest content. “Journalists cannot always guarantee truth but getting the facts right is the cardinal principle in journalism.”

(The Ethical Journalism Network)

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Gerda Potgieter (@devotedmag )

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It’s time to restore our country!

OUR THEME FOR THIS ISSUE IS RESTORATION. AS I SIT AND TYPE THIS, I REALISE THAT THE NEXT FEW MONTHS WILL BE A MAKE-OR-BREAK PERIOD FOR OUR COUNTRY AND ITS PEOPLE.

The national election is approaching, and the government is in chaos. While Devoted is focused on uplifting and inspiring people with our articles, finding positive people who still have hope for the country is becoming increasingly difficult. You can read the article by Georgina Crouth in the Daily Maverick of 1 April in which she wrote that “Stats SA’s first migration report shows SA has lost almost a million citizens to emigration since 2000”.

I assume these are tax-paying citizens, not citizens on grants. They are good, educated citizens who can financially afford to emigrate. Those citizens this country cannot afford to lose! How can this country afford to continue paying the grants to the ever-growing millions of people who have become dependent on it? The taxpayers leave us in such huge numbers, which puts a burden on the rest...

Our heads of state get away with the worst crimes, and their ‘apologies’ are accepted while they get away unscathed.

This leaves an open door for those who rule with them and their supporters. The few who stand up against corruption, dishonesty in all forms, crime, and violence are simply forced into silence.

Where did it begin, and where will it end? Mainstream media is the watchdog that is supposed to do its job and expose misdeeds committed by the government. But money speaks louder than ethics! Subscriptions, circulation figures, and advertising revenue have become the yardstick by which mainstream media measures their successes. Years ago, news coverage was about the public interest and what was ethical. No wonder the public has become so hostile! They are fed so much negative news and fake reporting that they no longer know the difference between fake news and the truth.

WHERE DID IT BEGIN, AND WHERE WILL IT END?

STANDING FOR RESTORATION

But there is a way as long as there is a little hope.

IS THIS THE DEMOCRACY THAT WE VOTED FOR?

Have you ever wondered how we got to where we are now, where fundamental values and human goodness are at risk? There are various reasons for this, and if you listen to the different opinions expressed on social media and during conversations, you can list many possibilities.

People have told me that the most common cause is that a fish rots from its head down. Many South Africans feel that the country’s last ethical leader was the late President Mandela, and from there, ethics and honesty went downhill.

If you don’t stand up for something, you will fall for anything, and I will dedicate the rest of my life to standing up for ethics—especially against unethical news reporting. And believe me... I know what this looks like because, since 2020, I have investigated how the most extensive media house in our country violated nearly every principle of the ‘book’ on ethics in news reporting and almost ruined the lives of innocent people. My research ended in a book published last year, and I will soon have to reprint it for the third time. It will soon also be on E-book format.

Today, the public must recognise the red flags that indicate unethical reporting because it impacts us all. I see the upcoming election as the most important in my lifetime. The ANC cannot be allowed to destroy the country further. It is already on its knees - unfortunately, not before God. God has already been removed from almost all aspects of our lives, even from churches that preach more about money and gender fluency than what is written in the Bible.

Seeing how mainstream platforms allow political leaders to dish their lies to the public is disgusting. And we all know that the bigger the lie, and the more it is told, the more it becomes the truth in the eyes of the public.

An excellent example of how lies impact us all can be put on the desk of our President, Cyril Ramaphosa. He told us in his recent State of the Nation address that our country’s electricity problems were under control. A day later, the Minister of Electricity plunged the country into a Stage 6 load-shedding schedule!

How can there still be people who cannot see that the current leaders have long ceased to act in the public’s service? It boggles my mind!!!

In this edition, you will find ethical issues in news reporting. These guiding principles are based on the case study of the media attack against the KwaSizabantu Mission, which I have researched for over three years. I’ve highlighted all the moral principles, as stated by the SA Press Code and based on the case study, to give practical examples of how easily the public can be led astray. During this critical time in our country, someone will pay someone else to lie - like they did in the KwaSizabantu case study!! So, watch out for these red flags in reporting over the next few months because you will be bombarded with them.

We also have an article about artificial intelligence (AI), as it is a hot topic nowadays. To test the authenticity of its information, we have put a previously written and wellresearched article through a test. We used an application to rewrite the previous article and were amazed (rather shocked) by the result. We provide the AI version of a previous bee-farming article so you can decide for yourself. We chose this article because the facts and the informants were verified before.

Ultimately, the most crucial message in this issue is: Think before you ink! It is time for restoration. Vote for the party that best represents your values, and make sure you know what those values are. We encourage everyone to vote in the upcoming elections. By default, anyone who doesn’t vote is voting for the wrong party! If you don’t vote, you have no right to complain because you are part of the problem, not the solution. Our beautiful country and people deserve better –so make your voice heard, but do it responsibly!

You will hear from me after the election. Please think before you ink!

Gerda

If you, or someone you know, have a story to tell, please share it with us. We love celebrating successes and achievements. Follow our Facebook page and we will share your inspirational story.

DEVINE PUBLISHERS’ FLAG SHIP MAGAZINE

WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF MEDIA ETHICS?

>>By Gerda Potgieter

AS WE MOVE CLOSER TO THE NATIONAL ELECTIONS, WE WILL BE BOMBARDED WITH DISINFORMATION FROM POLITICAL LEADERS AS WELL AS THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA THAT SUPPORT THEM. MONEY SPEAKS LOUDER THAN ETHICS, AND IN A WORLD WHERE SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION FIGURES, AND ADVERTISING REVENUE HAVE BECOME MORE IMPORTANT THAN ETHICAL NEWS REPORTING, IT BECOMES CRUCIAL FOR NEWS CONSUMERS TO EDUCATE THEMSELVES ABOUT THE RED FLAGS OF UNETHICAL JOURNALISM. I HAVE DEVOTED MOST OF MY TIME AND ENERGY TO RESEARCH AND EXPOSE UNETHICAL JOURNALISTIC PRACTICES AND WILL CONTINUE TO EXPOSE THEM IN THE PUBLIC’S INTEREST.

The Press Code of Ethics and Conduct for South African Print and Online Media, effective from 30 September 2020, clearly states the purpose of the press on its website: “The media exist to serve society. Their freedom provides for independent scrutiny of the forces that shape society and is essential to realising the promise of democracy. It enables citizens to make informed judgments on the issues of the day.”

This is a mouthful and says a lot. It is essential to understand that in a democracy like South Africa the media is the watchdog of society. In essence, it means that the media are obliged to expose the wrongdoing of government bodies and issues that impact the wider public. News reporting should be in the interest of the public.

For the public to make informed judgments on “issues of the day” or any news report, for that matter, it is essential that the media be objective, provide context, and state the sides of the accused and the accuser. Most importantly, the media should be independent. In layman’s terms, the media should not have an agenda with the news reporting and should not be too close to the informants and the story.

It all boils down to the fact that the public interest always guides the media’s work, which describes information of legitimate interest or importance to citizens

ETHICAL COMMITMENT

The Press Code stipulates, “As journalists, we commit ourselves to the highest standards to maintain credibility and keep the public’s trust. This means always striving for truth, avoiding unnecessary harm, and reflecting a multiplicity of voices in our coverage”.

Mainstream media has become increasingly nasty and focuses too much on the negative.

The commitment above requires, among other things, balancing the reporting of both negative and positive developments to, among others, avoid citizens losing hope. To maintain credibility and keep the public’s trust implies that news reporting should be the truth and nothing but the truth. Facts should be verified, and the informant’s credibility should be above board.

News reporters should report truthfully, accurately, and fairly. This means, again, that facts should be verified. News reporters should not present their version of the truth but should provide evidence. If allegations have been made, the news reporter should clarify that the facts are allegations. In South African law, an accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This law also applies to mainstream media.

The media has no right to find an accused guilty until proven innocent and convince the news consumer to find the accused guilty in the law of public opinion. Fair news reporting also indicates that reporters should give the accused a fair right to reply. It should not be a “tickof-the-box” exercise, as is mostly the case in the media. The accused should be given straight questions and a fair opportunity to reply to the accusations, and the reply should have the same space as the allegations.

The press code also states that the media should: “present news in context and a balanced manner, without any intentional or negligent departure from the facts whether by distortion, exaggeration or misrepresentation, material omissions, or summarisation; and “present only what may reasonably be true as fact; opinions, allegations, rumours or suppositions shall be presented clearly.

THE CASE STUDY

I studied the press coverage of the KwaSizabantu Mission since 2020 and found that, overall, the news reports, podcasts, interviews, and a documentary related to this case lacked ethical news reporting. I listed a few unethical journalistic practices discussed in the book, A Journey to the Truth, the Case of KwaSizabantu Mission. In short, the media used untested information to frame the Mission and its management. The list of unethical practices can be summarised as follows:

• Framing the mission as a cult where women and children are abused and the founder as a cultish leader.

• Comparing KwaSizabantu with Christian institutions that were found guilty of abuse.

• Providing condensed lists of cover terms that are misleading.

• Using emotive language extensively and listing hyper-charged words with negative meanings to spark emotions.

• Wrongfully omitting the words ‘allegations’ or ‘alleged’ to give the impression the mission was found guilty without allowing room for alternative views.

• Using cover terms extensively and changing the canonical English word order to give prominence to the first paragraphs in news stories (the interpretation of which coloured the entire article with an agenda).

• Advancing a smear campaign of individuals with a personal agenda. It did not take long to establish that the media employed many techniques to sensationalise its stories about KwaSizabantu. The coverage had numerous examples of editorial sloppiness, of which the following were examples:

• It was rife with rhetoric and tone that were inherently confrontational and insulting, especially against the founder and head of the mission.

• Alternative views were gagged into silence.

• The reportage contained slogan-like headlines that villainised the mission.

• The content was not in accord with the truth.

• The reports contained hearsay, false accusations, exaggerations, sensationalised content, and spurious attacks disguised as objective criticism.

• It contained deception.

• There were countless examples of an overabundance of information and detailing dramatised alleged events.

• Bold statements were made with a total lack of solid evidence.

• News24 provided an incomplete picture, and/or essential context was ignored, and critical information was omitted.

• In general, the reportage was over-reporting of a single organisation over an extended period.

The Noseweek investigative newspaper was the first to expose that the media had an agenda with its ongoing and intense media campaign against KwaSizabantu. Noseweek also exposed that the news reports were based on lies and fabrications for which people were paid, distortion of facts, and anomalies, among others. Noseweek recently produced and published a series of videos to prove the point and expose the truth under the title Revelation: KwaSizabantu Mission - How News24 got it wrong

Our readers can watch the videos by following the links:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qpsyi7oypL0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=403b4PFdvEA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGlkViYG-nE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvSbQqdlzhU

https://0dysee.com/KZB-Ep-5-News:7?r=BDjTAtq4WJnuTu rz5kqJidEt2WsNSwwj

In the meantime, some of the accusers came forward with the truth and exposed how they were either paid to tell lies about the Mission or how they were manipulated into lying. You can, for instance, read the story about Samantha Eloff’s healing and forgiveness in Issue 42 of Devoted magazine by following the link: https://online.pubhtml5.com/asxvv/sngi/.

HOW IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IMPACTING US?

THE BRILLIANT STEPHEN HAWKING IS DOCUMENTED AS HAVING TOLD BBC NEWS IN 2014 BEFORE HIS DEATH, “I FEAR THAT AI WILL EVENTUALLY REPLACE HUMANS ALTOGETHER. IF PEOPLE DESIGN COMPUTER VIRUSES, SOMEONE WILL DESIGN AI THAT IMPROVES AND REPLICATES THEM. THIS WILL BE A NEW FORM OF LIFE THAT OUTPERFORMS HUMANS.”

The Devoted team does not have the answer to the question about how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact us. However, we put one of our previous articles about bee farming through an application about AI that spewed out a well-written article for us. We could not find fault with any facts in the AI version, as we verified the facts before writing the first article. It seems that if an ethical journalist follows all the principles of ethics and checks the facts beforehand, it would be okay to call for the help of AI to take the article to another level.

Or not? You can judge...

The heading of our article was The blessing of giving unused land back to nature. An unaltered version of the AI take on an existing article follows. It changed the heading to “Cultivating Nature’s SymphonyHow Emseni Farm Harmonizes Bees and Blossoms”.

I Like it a lot! I struggle with catchy headings and subheadings and this recommendation helps a lot.

If you think the heading is impressive, read the rest of the AI version of the article:

In the sun-drenched heart of KwaZuluNatal, Emseni Farm unfurls its verdant tapestry. Here, the land whispers secrets of transformation—a metamorphosis from barren to blooming, from forgotten to fecund.

Bees, those tireless architects of life, weave their golden threads through this narrative. Their delicate wings flutter in syncopation, orchestrating a symphony of pollination. For without bees, the world would fall silent—a silent hunger, a silent thirst.

Emseni Farm, once cloaked in wattle trees, now wears a different mantle. Avocado orchards stretch like emerald seas, their boughs heavy with promise. But it is not just avocados that thrive here; it is the very essence of life—the nectar-laden dance between bee and bloom.

Picture this: unproductive corners of the farm, once forsaken, now burst forth with color. Bee-friendly havens, where wildflowers sway and bees sip from nature’s cup. Beehives nestle among avocado trees, their occupants weaving a delicate web of life.

>>onphotoEmsenicradlesadelicateequilibium–asymphonyofbees andblooms

>>onphotoTakingpicturesoftheflowerparadiseatEmseniFarmingin KwaZulu-Natal

The Devoted team visited the Emseni Farming projects a few times and could not find fault with any of the above versions. The facts are accurate.

In this instance, AI helped a lot to put a new spin on existing news…

Pollen dances from blossom to blossom, and avocado-flower honey drips like liquid gold.

And the bees? They hum a song of abundance, their wings brushing against petals. The smaller the flower, the more fervently they toil—a celestial choreography. Emseni tends to its agroecosystems like a maestro, nurturing diversity. The result? Avocadoes fit for export, kissed by sun and bee alike.

Did you know?

We can all become more bee-friendly and do something about the rapid decline of the bee population. You can make a difference by not killing bees and by planting a good-quality mix of flowering plants in your garden.

Transformingunusedlandinaflower

But balance is key. Solitary bees and communal bees—each plays a role. Emseni clears unproductive patches, leaving flowering weeds and cutting grass to enrich the soil. They plant forage areas, a buffet for buzzing bellies. Natural bushes stand sentinel, offering alternative sustenance. And the flowering plants? A kaleidoscope of flavors— African blue basil, lavender, and the snow-white trumpets of flowering black-jacks.

Basil, prolific and fragrant, blooms yearround. Radish unfurls its petals, aerating the earth. Clover, beloved by buck, spreads its green carpet. And the beehives? They dot the landscape, close to water sources. Four per hectare, a buzzing highway over orchards and orchards.

Emseni Farm, where bees and blossoms waltz—a testament to stewardship, to the blessing of giving unused land back to nature.

IS SOUTH AFRICA BECOMING

A NATION OF DIVISION?

MEDIA POSTS ROUTINELY CALLING FOR VIOLENCE AGAINST WHITES, AS WELL AS OTHER BLATANT, THREATENING, OVERTLY RACIST, BIASED, AND CONTROVERSIAL UTTERINGS FROM LEADERS OF POPULIST POLITICAL PARTIES, HAVE SPARKED SOCIAL MEDIA OUTRAGE AND CREATED UNREST OVER TIME. THE SOUTH AFRICAN STANCE ON THE ISRAELI/ PALESTINIAN WAR IS ANOTHER ISSUE THAT SEEMS TO DIVIDE THE NATION. THE QUESTION NOW IS: IS RACISM CAUSED BY PETTY PARTY POLITICS, OR IS SOUTH AFRICA BECOMING A NATION OF DIVISION?

Ihave written against racism in South Africa in the past and shall continue to do so. We can only deal with destructive issues effectively if we acknowledge them first and then constructively speak about them to seek effective solutions.

With the previous national elections, everybody in the political arena wanted to score brownie points, and some of the political parties deliberately fuelled racism and used it for their agendas. With the 2024 elections approaching, the same agenda seems to be on the table again. It has become a political tool used by populist parties to create division by fuelling hate along racial lines.

PETTY POLITICS

There is no doubt that politicians take the lead in influencing followers to look at colour. Do not be confused - they intend to create a racial divide through their actions and words to advance their political agendas, and it is not for the good of the country or its people.

Unfortunately, politicians know South Africans are invincible when united and

stand together against corruption that impacts us all. So, they have to create division, and the easiest way is to entice racism. This dangerous practice can easily undo the excellent work done in our country. I believe this hurts our country profoundly and should not be tolerated by peace-loving South Africans.

Thomas Sowell once said: “We seem to be moving steadily in the direction of a society where no one is responsible for what he did, but we are all responsible for what somebody else did - either in the present or the past.” We see this in action in the political arena, especially where everybody is blaming somebody else for their failures, and most are looking in the rear-view mirror and through ‘racial lenses.’ Unfortunately, too many politicians now use the race card to shift blame and stoke trouble and unnecessary confrontations – all in the name of winning a vote.

Very few of us will deny that racism persists. However, racism is the work of individuals and especially political leaders! This is sad because our leaders are supposed to set an example and unite the people for the good of the country as a whole. Leaders are not supposed to create a divide!

WHAT IS A RACIST?

Max du Preez (news24, 12/6/2018) wrote that “EFF’s racism threatens the democratic state,” and I agree with him here. He went further and pointed out that the “leadership has gone way beyond robust debate and has entered the realm of dangerous racial chauvinism with its insults and threats to especially white and Indian South Africans.” However, he pointed out in another article about racism, called “The myth of ‘reverse racism’” (news24, 03/04/2018), that “reverse racism is thus not racism in the real sense of the word, but it could be described as intolerance, hatred, or vengefulness based on race.” He qualified it by explaining, “When a black person insults or threatens a white person because he/she is white, it is a reaction to white racism, white domination, and historical injustices.” This is an interesting viewpoint, but I’m afraid I have to disagree with this statement. It is the easy way out of a deeper issue...

Racism comes in all shapes and forms. However, when racism is mentioned, it is widely (wrongly) seen only as a white-against-black social ill due to our history. Black against others is seemingly not regarded as racism by most. African scholar and philosopher Professor Achille Mbembe from Wits University said at an anti-racism event that was facilitated by the Anti-Racism Network of South Africa in Johannesburg on 15 March this year that “black people are as capable of racism as any other race –“they can at least perform racist acts.” Sadly, examples of these kinds of racism are also rife, primarily racist actions by people in a position of power, such as members of the police force and politicians.

What is good for the gander should be good for the geese - racism from and against anybody is wrong in all its forms and disguises, and it is against our constitution. Racism includes theories of racism, prejudice, all forms of discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race, no matter what race is under attack. South Africans live in a richly diverse country. Unfortunately, it is also a country where politicians use racial classification to justify some of the most heinous crimes. Continuing with it, in any form, will not take us forward because two wrongs don’t make a right!

Being a racist (regardless of your race), or if you have a prejudice against another person, do not deal constructively with the hurt of the past. All forms of racism (read: prejudice) are wrong and cannot be justified. Bias entrenches racist stereotypes, among others. Racism in ALL its forms should be criminalized and outlawed in this country to force people to change their destructive behaviour. Whether it is blatant or soft (subliminal) racism - it should not be condoned. Discrimination in any form, including racism and xenophobia, does not have a place in any democratic, multicultural society.

And our political leaders should set the example in this and not fuel the problem to win votes as they currently do!

Getting caught in that cycle of hatred based on race will continue to hurt you as an individual, now and in the future. Hate is a highly deconstructive feeling that mostly hurts the person who nurtures the feeling! If we want this country to work for us all, South Africans should commit themselves to peace and reconciliation again.

SPEAKING OUT AGAINST RACISM

It is good to see political leaders, like Dr. Kenneth Meshoe from the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), regularly call South Africa to look at itself and stop racism. They challenge us to seek to heal the wounds of past and present racial, ethnic, xenophobia, gender, and other socially repressive prejudices and exclusion. We should actively support these organizations with their vision for a reconciled South Africa. This is what it is going to take us forward.

Education goes hand in hand with this. Educated people are less easily manipulated, so all these sinister people have to do is ensure that our education system falls apart, and through hate speech, they are successful in dividing our nation. We must start integrating to learn, understand, and respect each other’s worlds.

God created different countries to spread over the world and prosper, and as His children, we have to walk the extra mile in combatting racism wherever and however we can.

The good news is that ordinary South Africans seem to want to live in peace. It is my experience that South Africans are much more tolerant, loving, and antiracist than politicians and some media outlets want us to think. I see people from all walks of life and races and cultures working together peacefully and in harmony every day until an individual labels people in terms of race and culture.

I believe the debate should instead focus on how we all could display more tolerance and less arrogance toward others. Colossians 3:13 states:

“Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause of complaint against another.”

We should break the cycle if we want to overcome past injustices.

God-fearing people should try and find ways to combat racism and not get involved in the agendas of politicians to create division along racial lines. God created all people in His image and loves us, no matter our colour, creed, or culture.

NOW

IS THE TIME TO TRANSFORM SOUTH AFRICA

ELECTION TIME IS A TIME OF MANY STRUGGLES ON VARIOUS LEVELS. ONE OF THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS PEOPLE ASK IS IF THEY SHOULD VOTE AND WHO TO VOTE FOR AFTER THAT. IN THE FIRST INSTANCE, THE BIBLE PROVIDES GOOD GUIDANCE IN EXODUS 18:2:

“But select capable men from all the people – men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain – and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens.”

Many feel they want to distance themselves from politics. Unfortunately, it does not help the landscape because they are then part of the problem, not the solution. Jesus called His followers to be the salt and light; therefore, His followers can positively influence the political environment. It is clear from the above Scripture that Christians are mandated to select (vote for) capable leaders, and as responsible citizens, they must cast their votes.

Speaking up by exercising your civic responsibility to vote has become more critical. We can no longer turn a blind eye to the social ills that have negatively impacted good governance, the economy, families, and our day-to-day lives. So much of what we see and hear around us can be classified as the aftereffects of corruption, greed, mismanagement of taxpayers’ money, state capture... The list is endless and exhausts us!

We all know about the high level of political mismanagement and how it is destroying and dividing the very fabric of our society. The deliberate killing of farmers who provide us with food resulted in civil unrest, escalating food prices, and increasing transportation costs, to name but a few. Every one of us is also a victim! We can transform South Africa and do it with our votes.

SHOULD CHRISTIANS VOTE?

The answers to the question are plain and straightforward. It is a Christian’s duty to vote; the Bible is clear about that! You cannot call yourselves a follower of Jesus but neglect your fundamental obligations to select capable men and women to lead us. As followers of Jesus, you do not recruit for

a specific party, but in reality, you must vote for one that speaks to your values the best!

Exercising a vote is a civic responsibility and should not be taken lightly. Everybody must obtain information on how a party stands on those critical issues that impact the destiny of a nation.

In South Africa, we have freedom of choice: Whether you want to vote or not – and whom to vote for. Our faith and politics should be aligned. Jesus’ followers cannot hold a Christian worldview and have a political view that is rooted in the secular world’s values and morals. God’s values must also guide your involvement in politics. Therefore, you must adjust your political views to align with His word.

DO THE HOMEWORK

Sadly, in South Africa, few voters know the names of the candidates on each party’s election list or the position of each name on that list. This is a pity because voters vote for the leadership of the political party of their choice — not for those representing the parties in the legislature. Voters cast their vote for a political party for many different reasons, and sometimes, voters tend not to vote for smaller parties for fear of not making an impact. This is a wrong perception because smaller parties make a difference in Parliament and can fight above their weight on issues that matter.

Every vote counts, and Christians must have a voice in Parliament to be heard. Another good reason to vote for a more minor party that shares the same values with you is that opposition parties work together on issues of common concern, such as the expropriation of land and Christian values.

Christians should actively seek a party that shares the same moral values and worldviews – a political party that uses ethics as their moral compass. In South Africa, our choices are limited, but then again, we do not need a variety of political parties to choose from!

YOUR BIBLICAL DUTY TO VOTE

CURRENT LEADERSHIP

South Africa has plummeted to great depths under the previous and current leadership. The leadership of this country has put the country and its people in turmoil. They have created many challenges and left them for others to solve now. As much as Christians do not like to judge others, nobody can deny that the devastating consequence of the Zuma era will be felt for years to come and by generations that have not yet been born! The Ramaphosa era is not different. It would be devastating if history repeats itself after the election.

South Africans are generally tired of corruption and maladministration – they are tired of the party that brought them years of billing crises and blackouts. South African voters have become mature and will no longer vote out of some sense of blind loyalty or historical obligation. We are tired of political leaders who divide us at the expense of our tax money. No doubt, we will be bombarded by a pre-election rush to implement quick-win projects, employ temporary workers to fix roads, etc. These projects will all vanish very soon after the elections.

Participating in the national elections is a right of citizenship.

But in the current landscape, I would go as far

as to say it is also a citizen’s civic responsibility. We should never forget that to secure the right to vote, people have been beaten, tortured, and even killed.

As responsible citizens, Christians must strive to honour God in all areas of life (Matthew 5:14-20). We are to oppose evil (Isaiah 59) and work for righteousness. Christians, therefore, have a Biblical duty to vote. Incredibly, if all the eligible people registered to vote and voted, they would outnumber the votes cast in the last election. In other words, those who are eligible to vote and who did not bother to register to vote or those who were registered but did not turn out and vote outnumber those who do vote. Next time somebody asks you what difference one vote can make, Remind them of that fact.

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people”

Proverbs 14:34

Amidst all the electioneering, unrealistic promises, media performances, slogan shouting and empty rhetoric, it is challenging to maintain an objective perspective on reality. Many even find it difficult to discern between what is right and what is wrong during election campaigns.

Be careful not to listen to what is said but to observe what is done. Cut through the vast volume of verbiage and evaluate each party and candidate in your area on the crucial Biblical issues:

The Biblical Issues Voters’ Guide –detailing the positions of 7 political parties on numerous key Biblical issues - is now available:

www.savotersguide.org.za

Share, download, and email your friends, family, neighbours, congregation, community, and colleagues.

Life-changing events inspire us

SOMETIMES, YOU HAVE TO HIT ROCK BOTTOM — EMOTIONALLY, FINANCIALLY, MENTALLY, AND SPIRITUALLY — BEFORE YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE FOR THE BETTER. IT IS ONLY AT THE BOTTOM THAT ONE REALISES HOW FAR OFF COURSE YOU ARE AND THAT YOU MUST MAKE DIFFERENT LIFE CHOICES.

DEVOTED HAS BUILT A REPOSITORY OF INSPIRING STORIES FROM WHICH OUR READERS CAN DRAW. WE HOPE YOU WILL KEEP SHARING THEM TO INSPIRE AND GIVE OTHERS HOPE. YOU CAN ALSO HELP US BUILD OUR COLLECTION OF STORIES BY SHARING YOUR UNIQUE, LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE LIKE THE PEOPLE BELOW HAVE.

DEVOTED HAS DRAWN INSPIRATION FROM THE RESTORATION PROGRAM OF CONCERNED YOUNG PEOPLE OF SOUTH AFRICA (CYPSA) BECAUSE OF ITS OVERWHELMING SUCCESS IN RESTORING LIVES FOR THE BETTER. OVER 20,000 HAS ALREADY BENEFITTED FROM THIS PROGRAM AND MANY OF THEM SHARED THEIR STORIES ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OR IN CHURCH SERVICES. THESE ARE THE UNALTERED STORIES OF SOME OF THEM...

QINISO KHUMALO

I was born in Ntuzuma Township but grew up in KwaDukuza (Stanger), KwaZuluNatal. In 2015, I arrived at CYPSA and enrolled in its Restoration Programme as a drug addict in desperate need of help. I had started using drugs at an early age and was smoking cigarettes and dagga while still in primary school. In 2009, my friend introduced me to smoking whoonga (heroin), and that was when my problems started. I became a terrible person at home and in my community. Because of the ingredients used and the properties of heroin, it gives you a high, but when it wears off, your trouble begins. You suffer from pain in your body and severe stomach cramps, and only smoking more of the drug can take these symptoms away.

Because of the daily need to use heroin, I became a criminal and started stealing and was even sent to prison for a short time. I tried to quit, but I failed.

It was then that my friend told me about CYPSA, where I would be welcomed with open arms and be able to get help. I confessed all the wrong things that I had done in my life and was prayed for, and God set me free from my drug addiction. I went back to my community and apologised to all the people I had wronged in the past. I was then allowed to work at the aQuellé water bottling factory. After having started as a packer packing loose packs onto pallets, I was appointed to become a machine operator. Now, I am working in the Technical Department as a technician and have received training on the maintenance and repairs of the manufacturing equipment used at the factory. God has truly changed my life.

LUNGISANI

MTOLO

I am 30 years old and come from Umlazi in Durban. I arrived and signed up for the CYPSA Restoration Programme in 2016, as I was addicted to drugs. After completing the 21-day programme, I felt relieved and like a new person.

After receiving help, I was offered employment and can now help support my family. I have even built my own house. I work in a construction team, am a trained operator, and hold licenses for various earth-moving equipment used on our construction sites. CYPSA continues to help me, and I thank God for the CYPSA organisation.

SANDILE MKHWANAZI

I am in my forties, and I came to CYPSA for the first time in June 2015 to seek help as I was suffering from depression. After joining the CYPSA programme, I was helped through prayer and counselling, and for the first time in many years, I was able to sleep at night without the need to take medication. As time passed, I was allowed to work at the aQuellé water bottling plant. It has been a wonderful experience, and not only am I growing in my career, but

MYEKI

I am from the Eastern Cape in Mount Frere. I came to join CYPSA at KwaSizabantu Mission on the 4th of December, 2016. I was an alcoholic, and my life had taken a drastic turn for the worse because of alcohol abuse. Because of my alcohol abuse, I lost my job, and I was unable to support my six children. This took a toll on my self-esteem to the point that I had given up on life and just wasted my life boozing. I was depressed as I could not be the father I wanted to be for my children.

However, the Lord brought people across my path who told me about CYPSA and the KwaSizabantu Mission and introduced me to the Lord Jesus Christ. I arrived at CYPSA with no skills, having been a general worker at my previous place of employment.

After the Lord blessed me with employment at aQuellé as a general worker, I was promoted to machine operator, and I am now working as a mixing technician. Only God knows the plans He has for us!

I am very thankful to those at CYPSA who sacrificed so much and have been used by God to save my life and the lives of so many others. Thank you, and God bless you.

I am also growing spiritually through prayers and counselling. I started working at aQuellé as a general worker and was promoted to forklift driver, and I enjoyed doing that work. At the beginning of 2022, I was allowed to study through the company and completed a oneyear course in Stores and Warehousing Management. After completing several other short Food Safety and Internal Audit courses, I was again promoted.

I am now being trained as an internal auditor to eventually facilitate external food safety audits for the company. I am thankful for the help that CYPSA gave me and for having been given the chance to rebuild my life.

Read more about the CYPSA-restoration program on the website: www.cypsa.org and on www.devotedmag.co.za

Restored lives Continue

SPHAMANDLA MNGONYAMA

When I was young, I was a lovely person who enjoyed life, joking, and having a good time with my friends. But the devil tempted me and used those around me to convince me that I would be even happier if I started drinking alcohol. He convinced me that I would find happiness that I had never experienced if I started drinking. When I started drinking, I drank beer, but soon, I was drinking solid spirits with a potent effect. This is when I became a different person, and when I drank, I would insult people and become very violent. I joined the CYPSA programme in 2014, as my life had reached a dead end due to my addiction to drinking alcohol.

At CYPSA, I found people who helped, prayed for me, and taught me that I should confess my sins to make my life right with God. After receiving help, I was offered casual employment as part of the team setting up for aQuellé water promotions.

Over time, I have been appointed to work as a technician, maintaining and repairing the production line equipment used in the two aQuellé factories based in KwaZulu-Natal. It’s been nine years now since the Lord set me free from alcohol abuse! It is natural for young people to undergo social and personal experimentation until they find their place in life. Unfortunately, during this phase, peer pressure can change them, their appearance, and their attitude. Over the years, the KwaSizabantu Youth Conferences, hosted twice a year, have been instrumental in restoring lives. As you will read below, peer pressure can cause young people to do unhealthy, sometimes even dangerous, things.

KAGISO TAU

I grew up in a warm home with almost everything I needed until my parents divorced. They both went their separate ways, and then I decided to take my own path in life. It was then that I started to experience the cold world. I became addicted to drugs and was considered a horrible person. I would lie to my mother and steal money from her purse. To fund my drug habit, I committed crime after crime. Because of my lifestyle and the way I behaved and treated my mother, she once told me that it would have been better if I had never been born.

I became a notorious criminal, and people from the community were looking for me because of all the wrong things I had been doing in the area.

During this time, I met someone who told me about the CYPSA Restoration Program, and as they say, the rest is history. I received help from those at CYPSA who the Lord uses, and I was set free from drug addiction. I now work on a construction team and hold licenses to operate earthmoving and plant machinery. I am currently studying to become a Health and Safety Officer. I am very thankful for what the Lord has done for me. What He has done for me, He can do for anyone!

THAMSANQA MPANZA

I was born in 1982 in KwaMashu Township. I am 40 years old and have had seven children, of whom four have passed away. My parents also lived in KwaMashu but have now passed on. I came to CYPSA in 2019, possessed by dark and evil spirits, and I had an addiction to drugs that was irresistible. I was a wanted criminal sought by the police, and I had 57 charges open against my name for crimes including house and business robberies, theft, hijacking, and murder. I had spent time in the notorious Westville Prison in Durban, had been shot at by the police, and had lost most of my friends to the lifestyle that we were living.

After enrolling in the CYPSA programme, I received counselling and prayer, confessed my sin, and sought forgiveness from God. After receiving help, I was advised to attend court and address the outstanding criminal charges I was facing. I followed this advice and presented myself to the authorities. The Lord intervened miraculously, and after appearing in court, I was given a five-year suspended sentence, released, and allowed to return to work and the CYPSA programme.

I thank God and the CYPSA organisation for helping me to face and conquer my sins and fears, which I had been powerless to deal with myself. I now work as a security guard and assistant at a supermarket, and my life has been restored. I thank the Lord for freeing me from the devil’s bondage of sin.

CYPSA is a non-profit organisation started in 2009 by concerned young people and Lidia Dube. It was registered as an NPO in 2010. CYPSA is situated at the KwaSizabantu Mission in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal.

CYPSA is not a rehabilitation centre; it is a place of restoration and is free of charge. Participants must commit to the rules and strictly follow all the instructions. They also have to go out after the programme to live their lives, hoping they will be more equipped to withstand life’s challenges.

Due to CYPSA’s work, education departments have formally invited them to conduct campaigns within its jurisdiction. CYPSA provides drug and human trafficking awareness workshops for principals and educators, among others. They visit communities and schools to educate and raise awareness for addictions. Through the goodwill of the KwaSizabantu Mission, the services are free to schools. Youth helped by CYPSA include drug addicts, drug dealers, pimps, gangsters, human traffickers, HIV-infected youth, and pornography addicts. They also visit prisons to bring hope to inmates based on reconciliation. CYPSA runs a Youth Inclusion Programme (YIP) that allows former drug addicts to complete their high school careers or pursue tertiary education. It also provides skills development and employment opportunities.

ENDORSEMENT FOR THE CASE STUDY ON SECESSION

A CASE FOR SECESSION: A HANDBOOK FOR SELF-DETERMINATION, FREEDOM, PRODUCTIVITY AND PROSPERITY

“There are many examples of secession in the Bible and in history. Dr Peter Hammond has done an excellent job in succinctly presenting those examples in this book. Moreover, he has given many other Biblical principles upon which we must base our understanding and be led by the truth of Scripture. It is only truth that will set us free. We must learn to think in Biblical terms—for real, genuine and true freedom is only found in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His Word.

“Dr Peter Hammond gives eyewitness accounts to successful secessions as well as explaining and offering practical suggestions and proven methods of accomplishing a peaceful, legal and economically effective secession.”

>> From the Introduction by Pastor John Weaver of Freedom Baptist Church, Georgia

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“This book takes an in-depth look at the rapidly worsening conditions the ordinary men and women of South Africa have to live with every day. It clearly paints the national government for what it is, a top-down, one-party dominating institution, hell-bent on the destruction of the country on every conceivable level through an uncontrolled spiral of corruption and an ever-increasing disregard for the rights of ordinary people. The author vividly shares his very clear perspective on the dismal realities facing us today, of the minimal chances of the country ever recovering again to be the respected state it once was, yet he also at the same time reinforces the one, singular chance we, as ordinary people, have to save the Western Cape from this sinking ship called South Africa.

“Many detractors have much to say about independence, most from a point of being uninformed, or with a self-inflated image of being an “expert” in such matters. None is better equipped to advise than a man who lived through various secessions, most notably that of South Sudan. In this book Dr. Hammond shares with us the practical experience of someone who can truly say “been there, done that”.

“Not only will this book impart a knowledge of secessions all over the world to you, but it will also bring you to the understanding that it will not be the actions or decisions of political leaders or scholars which will secure the future of our children and grandchildren, but rather your decision as an ordinary person to stand up and become part of the ever-growing group demanding that the will of the people must be heard.”

>> From the Foreword by Des Palm, Des Palm, Director CapeXit NPO

“With a history much older than most modern nations around the world, there can be no other calling for anyone here with a moral compass than to do everything within one’s power to embrace, protect and preserve everything that makes the Cape what it is…

“ Dr. Peter Hammond lays out with pristine clarity the ways in which we may save the Cape, and in so doing, a part of ourselves.

“In 1488, Bartholomew Dias named this land “The Cape of Storms”. Like the seasons, history moves in cycles. Now more than 500 years later the clouds are gathered overhead once more.

“With strength in the face of adversity, in honour of those who came before us, and in service to those who will follow, may we return this beloved land to its God-given glory, and all it stands for …… The Cape of Good Hope.”

>> From the Foreword by Jack Miller, Founder and Leader Cape Independence Party

During the Cold War Author Peter Hammond had the opportunity of travelling throughout Eastern Europe, including behind the Iron Curtain and saw the beginnings of a number of successful secession movements including in the Baltic states, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia. It was also his privilege to be involved in the campaign for the secession and independence of South Sudan. https://www.christianlibertybooks.co.za/item/faith_under_fire_in_sudan__sc

Is Secession really Foolish and Unworkable?: https://fromthefrontline.podbean.com/ With critical national elections in South Africa, coming up 29 May, discussions and arguments concerning devolution, decentralization, provincial powers, autonomy and self determination for the Western Cape are heating up in the media.

DA leader John Steenhuisen declared that secession was stupid and unworkable! Refuting that irresponsible and ignorant comment is the new book:

A Case for Secession which presents the Biblical, historic, legal, constitutional, economic and practical case for self determination, secession and independence, with examples of successful secession movements and examples of excellence. A Case for Secession is a timely Handbook for Self-determination, Freedom, Productivity and Prosperity. The author is available for radio interviews, Church services and book launch meetings.

https://www.christianlibertybooks.co.za/.../case_for...

“Thus says the Lord God:... ‘Let My people go, that they may serve Me.’” Exodus 10:3

Please visit the new Cape of Good Hope website: https://capeofgoodhope.online/

Case for Secession is available from Christian Liberty Books:

ACase for Secession is a timely Handbook for Selfdetermination, Freedom, Productivity and Prosperity. Drawing on over four decades of travelling across 42 countries and working in 38 countries on four continents, missionary Dr Peter Hammond presents eyewitness insights on numerous successful secession movements and presents the Biblical, historical, legal, constitutional, economic and practical case for selfdetermination, secession and independence, with 23 examples of successful secession movements and examples of excellence that can provide a future and a hope for our children and grandchildren in the Cape of Good Hope.

The book is 100 pages long and includes 42 pictures and maps. It includes Forewords from Des Palm of CapeXit, Jack Miller of Cape Independence Party, Cuan Elgin District Councilor of Freedom Front Plus, and an Introduction by American pastor John Weaver.

CAPE INDEPENDENCE IS NOT JUST A GOOD IDEA BUT ESSENTIAL FOR SURVIVAL. WE GO DOWN WITH THE ANC-RUN SA TITANIC OR LAUNCH IN A FREE AND INDEPENDENT CAPE OF GOOD HOPE LIFEBOAT.

WITH CRITICAL NATIONAL ELECTIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA COMING UP IN MAY THIS YEAR, DISCUSSIONS AND ARGUMENTS CONCERNING DEVOLUTION, DECENTRALISATION, PROVINCIAL POWERS, AUTONOMY AND SELF-DETERMINATION ARE HEATING UP IN THE MEDIA. USEFUL LINKS: Ebook: www.smashwords.com/books/view/1529318

Bulk

CONGRATULATIONS TO AQUELLÉ, SOUTH AFRICA’S NO1 BOTTLED WATER

…FOR RECEIVING YET ANOTHER AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

It is now official – aQuellé was voted South Africa’s most-loved bottled water brand. The famous aQuellé has received yet another award – this time as a category winner in the Askafrika ICON brands 2023/2024.

aQuellé has grown tremendously over the last 25 years and is widely regarded as the forerunner in excellence and innovation across every category of the packaged water industry. The brand has been awarded several times. It is a community-based organisation which pays it forward in various ways: through humanitarian work, sponsorship, outreach, and the very successful sustainable community clean-ups, the It’s Khula to Clean Up Together campaign.

Want to know more

Visit the website, www.aquelle.co.za, for more information about the company, its outstanding work in the community, and its outreaches

“Keep up the good work, and we hope you will grow from strength to strength so you can continue making a positive difference in the community!”

THE MOST LOVD WATER BRAND