Elderly folks showcase their sport skills at Active Ageing Programme in eManzana
The programme was organised by the Department of Social Development to encourage elderly persons to prioritise their physical well-being.
Some elderly people embodied the statement ‘age is just a number’ as they got active at this year’s Active Ageing Programme, which took place at Laerskool Badplaas on November 7.
The event opened with an oath and declaration, followed by the official start of the games.
A total of 516 seniors, aged 60 and above, competed in various sporting codes such as running, relay, pass the ball, duck walking, soccer, rugby, rugby ball throws, athletics and goal-shooting throws.
This programme, initiated by the Department of Social Development in September 2005 and later adopted by the government, encourages senior citizens to lead healthy lifestyles and raises awareness of their potential in sports and leisure activities.
This initiative also highlights the vulnerabilities faced by older individuals, including gender-based violence and other forms of abuse.
The director of social welfare, Cecilia Mazibuko, said the programme is aimed at ensuring that elderly people live long lives.
“They are at the age where they are sometimes dealing with serious health conditions and with this programme, we hope to help manage their health and elongate their lives.”
Mazibuko said the toughest part of this event was keeping up with the elderly.
“Do not be fooled by their age; they are fast. Even I struggled to keep up with them when they were on that track,” she said.
The Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality’s acting executive mayor, MMC Snana Dhlamini, welcomed the guests and expressed gratitude for their presence.
She highlighted the significance of older persons’ participation in such programmes for health benefits, noting its role in reducing certain diseases and illnesses.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga MEC for sports congratulates Sipho Makhabane for his award
The MEC for social development, Brenda Moeketsi, also attended the event. She acknowledged the role of the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation and its support.
She expressed appreciation for the large turnout of older participants, emphasising the importance of reporting any cases of abuse and being vocal about mistreatment.
Following the completion of the games, Moeketsi presented awards to the winners who will move on to represent the province at the upcoming annual National Active Ageing Programme in North West on a date that has yet to be confirmed.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga delegates participate in National Department of Health summit
