The Johannesburg Zoo welcomed men and women aged 60 and above, free of charge, on Wednesday to celebrate senior citizens month.

To mark the special day, the zoo partnered with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, which saw volunteer KnitWits teach and transfer their skills to senior citizens.

Read more: St Katharine’s learners donate backpacks to Mayfair West school

Chief operating officer of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day Robinson Grealy said the organisation’s partnership with the zoo was made possible in the spirit of senior citizens month. “It’s a way of bringing people together, creating memories and warmth, and making new friends.”

Queens Haven Home auxiliary social worker Violet Mzangwe said the home recently partnered with the organisation, which falls under its craft activities.

“So far, we have received 2 400 balls of wool to crochet and have completed 39 blankets,” Mzangwe said. “We have also joined them today for Senior Citizens Day where we will be crocheting and knitting.”

Also read: St Katharine’s Grade 5 learners donate backpacks to Salvazione Christian School

Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo spokesperson Jenny Moodley said the day was about uniting seniors who were having a happy and eventful day. “It is a low-key event with approximately 1 000 people,” said Moodley.

“It is an opportunity for us to give back to the elders who mean a lot in our societies and communities and a way to respect and value them.”

Moodley added that it was also a day when senior citizens get to see the zoo’s big five, including the elephants.

“The zoo is not only a place of conservation, but a place to make sure that everyone understands the full value of our ecology,” she said.

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!