Elderly discuss challenges at parliament session

It was two days to remember for senior citizens of Ugu, as the provincial government visited the region recently.
The first event was International Day of Older Persons, which was followed by a Senior Citizens Parliament, both held at Umzinto Town Hall.

The senior citizens day was commemorated under the theme: ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights’.

Both events were led by KZN Premier Thami Ntuli, accompanied by members of his cabinet. Ntuli said the Senior Citizens Parliament served as a platform to raise and deliberate challenges that continue to affect older persons, including access to affordable and quality healthcare, provision of decent and affordable housing, challenges related to pension pay outs and social grants, and the urgent need to bridge the digital divide to ensure inclusivity in a changing world.

Ntuli further recommended the establishment of a Senior Citizens Council at municipal level to ensure that the concerns and needs of the elderly are consistently considered in local government planning and decision-making.

He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring that policies and programmes remain people-centred, protective and inclusive of senior citizens, recognising them as vital custodians of wisdom, heritage and community stability.

Meanwhile, the day before the parliament session, Ntuli accompanied by KZN MEC for the Department of Social Development had visited Anchor Village Old Age Home in Umzinto, where they interacted with residents and staff.

Ntuli said: “The International Day of Older Persons is not only a celebration, but a solemn reminder of our responsibility to protect, empower and include our elders. They are the custodians of our history and heritage, and their dignity must always be safeguarded.”

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