Gauteng’s active ageing games come to an end
"This programme is about more than compliance; it is about keeping our seniors healthy, socially connected, and celebrated as the treasures they are."
SEDIBENG.-The Gauteng Provincial Active Ageing Games concluded on a high note last week, celebrating the spirit of unity, vitality, and healthy living among senior citizens.
Over two exciting days, older persons proved that age is just a number as they proudly demonstrated their energy, passion, and commitment to active living.
The games began on September 2 at the Isak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark.
The programme provided a platform for elderly participants to remain physically active in their golden years, promoting longer life expectancy, preventing chronic diseases, and enhancing overall quality of life.
Organised by the Gauteng Department of Social Development in collaboration with the Departments of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Health, the Gauteng Older Persons Forum, and the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM), the event brought together more than 500 participants from clubs across all five provincial corridors.
Winners will go on to represent Gauteng at the upcoming National Golden Games in the Western Cape.
Speaking on the sidelines of the games, acting head of department, Phumla Sekhonyane, commended the Active Ageing Programme, noting its impact in encouraging older persons to live healthier, more engaged lives.
“I am inspired to join our grannies and mkhulu’s as they participate in these games. The Active Ageing Programme demonstrates the benefits of meaningful participation in physical fitness, sports, and cultural activities for persons aged 60 and above. This programme is about more than compliance; it is about keeping our seniors healthy, socially connected, and celebrated as the treasures they are,” said Sekhonyane.
She further encouraged other seniors across Gauteng to join community clubs in their areas so they too can be part of this life-changing programme next year. The games featured a variety of sporting codes, including brisk walking, goal shooting, jukskei, athletics, and aerobics, with both male and female participants competing.
The Active Ageing Programme forms part of the government’s broader Older Persons Programme, which ensures that senior citizens are not only supported through social services but are also encouraged to lead fulfilling, active, and healthy lives.
