Nofta celebrates the week of the aged.

The Newcastle Organisation for the Aged (Nofta) recently celebrated its week of the aged, last Saturday at the Nofta hall.

Mr Rajesh Ramdaw, Nofta chairman, officially welcomed guests and applauded all sponsors and volunteers for their contribution in making the event a success.

He personally expressed his gratitude towards Asim Gani, a principal sponsor of Nofta for the last three years.

Mr Gani, who resides in Cape Town, made a special effort to visit the centre on this day to witness this worthy event.

With spectacular performances by CKN dancers, Aaja Nachle dance group and a Nagara musical group, Mr Gani and the captivated crowd weren’t disappointed.

Mr Gani is an internationally renowned achiever, administrating his own company with many accolades under his belt. He is also a member of the Actuarial Society of South Africa.

Possessing international expertise and an impressive resumé, he is well-acquainted with the insurance industry. Mr Gani is determined to assist the aged with advice on their investments when they retire.

“This day is in honour of the aged; it is because of senior citizens we are here today,” he said.

Joy Rampersad of the Department of Social Development in Ladysmith, addressed the guests on the purpose of having a senior citizen centre.

“We want to give the aged at least one decent meal a week, a place were they can visit and socialise,” explained Ms Joy.

These centres also offer cholesterol and blood sugar screenings.

Ms Joy further elaborated on a Meals on Wheels programme that caters for senior citizens who cannot physically attend the centre.

“The elderly need to know someone cares; all they need is to be showed love and care,” said Mrs Rampersad.

She reminded younger guests that they too would succumb to old age.

“You will one day say goodbye to tension and hello to pension.”

Mrs Rampersad extended her appreciation to the donors, sponsors and numerous volunteers, for giving homage to the aged, as senior citizens contribute a significant role in our communities.

Guests were treated to an exquisite meal and were left enthralled and thoroughly entertained.