Excuse the pun, but truth be told Easter does not necessarily need to be all bunnies and chocolate treats. Port Culture has got you covered for this upcoming weekend’s events for the whole family.
1. Splash Festival – Friday until Sunday (18th – 20th April)
The much-anticipated Splash Festival 2025 is making a dazzling return to Kings Beach from April 18th to 21st, promising a spectacular Easter weekend filled with live music, food, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Powered by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and proudly supported by SPAR Eastern Cape, this year’s event is poised to transform the beachfront into a vibrant celebration of local culture, community, and creativity.
2. African Sky’s Easter Night Market – Friday, 18 April
For a family night out filled with fun and good food, support local vendors and enjoy live music at African Sky’s Easter Night Market to be held at 120 Nassau Avenue this Friday. The market will open from 17:00 until 21:00.
3. A Night of Worship with Heinz Winckler – Friday, 18 April
This Good Friday, come and experience a powerful evening of praise and worship as renowned artist Heinz Winckler leads us in song at the Word of Faith Christian Center from 18:30. Let your heart be stirred and your spirit uplifted as we gather in unity to reflect, celebrate, and worship together. Don’t miss this inspiring night filled with faith, music, and connection.
Hop into the Easter spirit at The Beach Hotel Easter Lunch! Treat yourself to a mouthwatering lunch for only R395 per person. No need to worry about cooking and bottomless washing up of dishes—just unwind, enjoy the feast, and make beautiful memories with the people who matter most.
Hacklewood Hill Country House in Walmer is hosting a High Tea at R325 per person. Spend an afternoon indulging in decadent bites and taking Instagram-worthy shots in their picturesque gardens.
On April 9, the Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus in France released an official statement criticizing the April 7 article published by the French daily Le Parisien, stating that the church and its members were “seriously defamed” due to distorted and biased reporting. The church pointed out that the article excessively highlighted one-sided claims made by a former member, while barely reflecting the actual practices and beliefs of the faith community.
The controversial article, titled “They Treated Us Like Animals”, described New Heaven New Earth Church as one of the “problematic evangelical groups” in France, based on the personal testimony of an anonymous former member. The article mentioned training camps, severed personal relationships, and monetary demands. However, the church emphasized that their position was reflected in only two sentences of the article.
A church representative stated, “We submitted a detailed written response consisting of thousands of words to 12 questions sent by the reporter in advance, but only two sentences were used in the article. That’s less than 1% of our full statement and severely limits readers’ ability to see a balanced perspective.” The representative also noted, “Since the article was published only four hours after we submitted our responses, it seems the report had already been pre-written with a biased intention.”
They added, “If the written statement was insufficient, the reporter could have visited the church in person to observe our faith practices and hear directly from active members. Our church is always open to communication with the media.”
Congregants actively engage in a dynamic Bible education session, reflecting the church’s emphasis on scriptural understanding and community involvement.
To provide a more accurate picture, the church shared testimonies from current members. Teresa (29), who has attended the church in Paris for six years, said, “Faith is something one chooses voluntarily. Through this church, I learned who God is and how to live as a light in the world.” Another member, Axel (30), said, “Before joining New Heaven New Earth Church, I was searching for meaning in life. Through my faith here, I’ve come to understand what God desires from us, and I find great joy in doing God’s work. I’ve even been able to travel and met my wife at church. I’m living a truly fulfilling life.”
Regarding the article’s sensational title, “They Treated Us Like Animals”, the church stated, “Our members were shocked and confused by this phrase. No one in our community has ever been treated that way, nor do they feel that way. This was clearly a provocative headline used to attract attention.” The church emphasized that it does not tolerate threats or stigmatization of former members and respects individuals’ decisions even after leaving the church.
In response to the claim that “the church forced a breakup between a woman and her boyfriend,” the church strongly denied this, saying, “The man was also a member of the church at the time and even expressed interest in marriage. However, the woman stated she wasn’t ready for marriage. Their breakup was a personal decision based on mutual discussion and faith considerations, and the church never pressured or influenced their relationship.” They added, “Dating and marriage are personal matters based on autonomy and responsibility; it’s inaccurate to attribute them to church control.”
The church also raised concerns about misleading content in the interview. One example cited was a photo showing someone with their foot on a radiator, which the article described as “punishment.” The church explained, “This photo has nothing to do with punishment. It was taken before the individual even joined the church. The person in the photo, who is still a member today, was simply demonstrating a pose for fun, and the image was taken lightheartedly. The member was shocked by the article’s misuse of the photo without consent and intends to file an official complaint with the media outlet.”
The church stated, “Reporting such claims without proper fact-checking fosters a skewed perception that the entire New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus is irrational, which is extremely regrettable.”
Concerning the so-called “training camps,” the church clarified, “These were short-term, completely voluntary programs for individuals who desired deeper spiritual growth. They included morning prayers and Bible meditation. Participants could leave at any time, and there was no physical punishment or coercion involved. However, understanding that it might be misunderstood from an outside perspective, the church has since discontinued the program.”
Members of the New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus deliver a vibrant dance performance in France.
The church also refuted claims about collecting personal information, restricting internet access, or encouraging members to cut family ties, stating, “None of this is true. We only collect minimal information needed for faith counseling. There are no restrictions on internet usage or external relationships. On the contrary, we encourage our members to live exemplary lives within their families and communities.”
Regarding the use of the name “ECA Academy,” the church explained, “It was a Bible education program name temporarily used in 2019. Participants were clearly informed that it was affiliated with New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus, and joining the church afterward was entirely up to the individual.”
In response to the article, the New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus in France called on the media to uphold the following principles:
Include a variety of perspectives and experiences in reporting
Accurately reflect the church’s official responses and statements
Provide fair opportunities to share the experiences and voices of active members
Respect religious freedom and the dignity of believers
Avoid sensational titles and expressions that foster prejudice
A church representative concluded, “Biased reports targeting specific religious communities impose stigma and prejudice on sincere believers, violating religious freedom and human rights. The media must avoid inflammatory approaches that incite hatred and instead aim for balanced, respectful coverage that represents diverse voices.”
They added, “We hope Le Parisien and all media outlets adhere to higher ethical standards in religious reporting. New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus remains committed to open communication and honest dialogue to foster better understanding.”
The recent acquittal of Nigerian televangelist pastor Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, has sent shockwaves throughout South Africa ¹. The Gqeberha High Court’s verdict, delivered by Judge Irma Schoeman, found the trio not guilty of 32 charges, including rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. While this outcome may be disappointing for many, it’s essential to recognize that this case can still serve as a catalyst for social change in South Africa.
The Omotoso case has brought attention to the critical issues of abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking that plague our society. As South Africans, we must acknowledge that these problems exist and that we all have a role to play in preventing them. By engaging in open and honest conversations about these issues, we can work towards creating a safer and more just environment for all.
1. Revisions to Address Power Imbalances: The law needs to better account for cases involving power imbalances, such as those seen in the Omotoso case, where the abuser is a religious leader or someone in a position of authority.
Source: Sowetan/Getty
2. Clear Definitions for Psychological and Emotional Abuse: The law should provide clear definitions for psychological and emotional abuse, areas often overlooked in traditional sexual abuse laws.
3. Faster and More Efficient Trials: Legal reform should aim to speed up the process, ensuring that survivors do not have to wait years for their cases to be heard. Special courts for sexual abuse cases, with judges and staff trained in trauma-informed care, would alleviate delays and create a more supportive environment for survivors.
4. Public Education and Advocacy*: Initiatives aimed at educating the public about their rights, the mechanisms for reporting abuse, and the importance of believing victims will help create a culture of accountability.
So, what can we do to actively petition for justice in our communities?
– Support organizations that provide services to survivors of abuse and exploitation. These organizations often rely on donations and volunteers to continue their vital work.
Source: Sowetan/Getty Images
– Use your voice to raise awareness about the importance of consent and healthy relationships. Share articles, videos, and personal stories on social media to help spread the word.
– Demand more from our leaders and institutions. Hold them accountable for creating safe and just environments for all.
While the Omotoso case may not have ended in the way many had hoped, it’s clear that it has sparked a national conversation about justice, accountability, and social change. As we move forward, let’s continue to work together to build a South Africa that is truly just and equitable for all.
1. S. Mavuso, 02 April, 2025. Nigerian Pastor Timothy Ommotoso and Co-Accused Cleared of Rape Charges [Online: https://www.atnews.co.za/nigerian-pastor-timothy-ommotoso-and-co-accused-cleared-of-rape-charges]
Pretoria, South Africa – March 25, 2025 – The 9th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) took place at Brooklyn Lodge, Pretoria, bringing together high-level officials, ambassadors, representatives from NGOs and IGOs, and members of civil society.
“We are one!” High-level officials, ambassadors and representatives at the conference room in Brooklyn Lodge, Pretoria
The event, hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), followed the March 14 commemoration held in South Korea and focused on this year’s theme, “Institutionalizing Peace: Legal Frameworks for Sustainable Conflict Resolution.”
The event underscored the urgent need to transform peace from a conceptual ideal into a legally binding and institutionalized norm. As South Africa reflects on its own history of human rights struggles, the commemoration highlighted the necessity of codifying peace—much like human rights—within national and international legal frameworks to ensure sustainable conflict resolution.
The event was conducted in a hybrid format, accomodating both in-person and live online participation. It commenced with praise and performances, fostering a sense of unity among attendees. The program featured the introduction of speakers, presentations, discussion sessions, a screening of the HWPL video, the National Solidarity Statement (NSS) presentation, a Q&A session, a support signature campaign, and a closing ceremony.
Approximately 48 individuals from various sectors—including government officials, youth organizations, and peace advocacy groups—attended the event to engage in discussions on peace. Participants represented South Africa and nine other countries.
Speaking at the South Korean event on March 14, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee emphasized the importance of strengthening legal mechanisms for peace, stating, “True peace can only be realized when it is upheld by law, not just by words. The DPCW serves as a blueprint for ensuring that peace is not left to voluntary political will but is instead a legally protected right for all.”
The Pretoria event echoed this sentiment, with discussions focusing on the role of the Legislate Peace Project, which has mobilized citizen-led advocacy to integrate peace into governance structures. The discussions focused on integrating peace into governance structures through civic-led advocacy efforts. To achieve this goal, four speakers including Mr Sipho Seakamela, Reon van der Merwe, Mpule Kgetsi, and Mu-Aalima Amyna Fakude shared their perspectives and engaged in meaningful discussions on practical peace initiatives. Experts and stakeholders explored how international organizations, including the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and the European Union (EU), have underscored the necessity of normative frameworks for peacebuilding.
Key sessions addressed the DPCW’s 10 articles and 38 clauses, which advocate for global conflict prevention, disarmament, and institutional cooperation. The declaration calls for legal obligations on states to adhere to international court rulings, repurpose military infrastructure for civilian use, and engage civil society in peacebuilding efforts.
Prestigious attendees with their signed declaration
Building on these discussions, participants engaged in strategic dialogues on how to institutionalize peace within Southern African legal systems and expand the National Solidarity Statement (NSS) Campaign. The campaign seeks to ensure that regional governments recognize and support the implementation of the DPCW, fostering genuine peace by encouraging collaboration between officials and civil society.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering an even stronger global coalition for peace through legal reform and grassroots advocacy. Recognizing that peace remains an aspiration in many regions, HWPL’s mission continues to drive forward the necessary legal transformations to practically ensure that peace is protected, upheld, and enforced at all levels of society.
For more information, media inquiries, or to support the Legislate Peace Project, please contact: sa@hwpl.kr
Planning for retirement is often associated with the later stages of life, particularly once you reach your 40s or 50s. However, a growing number of financial experts argue that the earlier you begin preparing, the better. While it might seem premature to think about retirement in your 20s or 30s, doing so can actually give you a significant advantage in securing a comfortable future. The question then becomes: is there ever really too early to start planning for your retirement?
One of the key reasons for starting early is the power of compound interest. The earlier you begin saving, the more your money will grow over time. Even small contributions made at a young age can grow into a substantial retirement fund by the time you reach retirement age. This principle is often referred to as “the magic of compound interest,” and it emphasizes how the growth of your investments accelerates over the years. The earlier you start, the less you may need to contribute in the long run to meet your retirement goals.
Another benefit of starting early is the ability to take on more investment risk. Younger people have more time to recover from market downturns, allowing them to invest in higher-risk, higher-reward assets such as stocks. This strategy can result in greater returns over time compared to more conservative investments, which may be better suited for individuals closer to retirement. By starting early, you can take advantage of the market’s long-term growth, rather than trying to play catch-up later in life.
Furthermore, early planning can provide more flexibility and options when it comes to retirement. Those who begin saving and investing early often find that they have the ability to retire earlier or live more comfortably during their retirement years. The longer your money has to grow, the more financial freedom you can enjoy later in life. Additionally, early retirement planning allows you to adjust your lifestyle in response to unforeseen changes, such as economic shifts or personal goals.
However, it is also important to strike a balance when it comes to early retirement planning. While starting to save in your 20s and 30s can yield significant benefits, it is crucial not to sacrifice the present for the future. Life is about enjoying the moment and ensuring you also have the funds to live comfortably now, rather than postponing everything to a distant retirement. Financial planning should be about creating a healthy balance between present enjoyment and future security, without the pressure of obsessing over retirement too early.
In conclusion, there is no such thing as starting too early when it comes to planning for your retirement. The earlier you begin, the more you can take advantage of compound interest, higher-risk investments, and the potential for a more flexible and comfortable retirement. While it is important not to neglect your current financial needs, taking proactive steps now can set you up for a much more secure and enjoyable future.
