VEREENIGING.- Thursday morning marked the International Day of Older Persons, the start of Social Development Month and the beginning of Older Persons’ Week.

To mark the occasion, the Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted an Older Persons Choir Festival at the Vereeniging Civic Hall.

Laughter, music and celebration filled the Sedibeng theatre as senior citizens from across Gauteng gathered for the event. The festival provided older persons with an opportunity to showcase their musical talents, socialise with peers and celebrate the joy of ageing through music and performance.

This festival formed part of the department’s recreational programmes designed to promote active ageing, social participation and the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of senior citizens.

Speaking at the event, Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, said the department believes older people deserve continuous opportunities to participate, express themselves and enjoy meaningful activities in their communities.

“Our older persons have so much to offer. They have talent, experience and stories that continue to enrich our communities. Through recreational activities such as the Provincial Choir Festival, we are creating spaces where they can come together, remain active, build friendships and simply enjoy themselves,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.

Choirs from various communities and municipalities across Gauteng came together at the festival, allowing participants to share their talents while strengthening social cohesion and celebrating the province’s cultural diversity.

MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised that active ageing ensures older people continue living with dignity and remain connected to their communities.

“Today, our older persons have reminded us that joy has no age limit. Whether through music, sport, cultural activities or other recreational programmes, we must continue creating opportunities for our senior citizens to remain active, connected and celebrated,” she added.

Ultimately, the Older Persons Choir Festival is one of several activities that encourage social interaction among older residents and reduce their exposure to abuse.