Soweto elders honoured at joyful celebration in Phiri Hall

Phiri Hall came alive as elderly groups gathered to celebrate Kidi Mufube and 18 others, highlighting the importance of honouring and cherishing senior citizens in the community.

A touching ceremony was held at Phiri Hall, where Mufube, who recently celebrated her 70th birthday, was joined by 18 other elderly women. The occasion was a heartfelt celebration of life, community and appreciation.

Elderly women representing various groups attended the event, including Naledi Senior Citizens, Phiri Day Care, Joe Gqabi Senior Citizens, White City Senior Citizens, Dobsonville Oldies and Vuka Zenzele Elderly People. Their presence helped create a vibrant and emotional atmosphere.

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As the main celebrant, Kidi Mufube thanked everyone for attending and shared some of her experiences.

“I have been with this club since its inception. I have been mentoring its members, and I am proud of what they have become. They have not forgotten where they come from,” she said.

The event was organised by the King Alpha Queen Omega Development Organization, with Bhekalazi Lisevo Parkies serving as programme director.

According to Bhekalazi Lisevo Parkies, the celebration was aimed at ensuring elderly people feel appreciated.

“The elderly are often neglected in their own households, and sometimes even their birthdays are forgotten. Although they receive pension grants, their families often use the money for themselves rather than allowing them to enjoy it. That is why we have gathered here today – to celebrate them and remind them that they are valuable,” Parkies said.

Moses Demeshane, a regional officer who was not originally invited, stopped by the event and offered words of encouragement.

“Seeing elderly people gathered like this excites me. It is not enough for them simply to grow old; they must also share their wisdom with the younger generation,” he said.

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Another guest speaker, Margaret Koane, praised the birthday celebrants and offered her well wishes.

“We are grateful to the birthday girl, and we wish her love, good health and healing. We thank you, our grandparents, because God has brought you all here to witness this special occasion,” she said.

Koane also emphasised the importance of family values, reminding those present that charity begins at home.

Representatives from each group took turns wishing Mufube and the other 18 women a happy birthday. The grandmothers were treated to nutritious snacks, including fruit salads, adding to the festive spirit.

Singing and dancing formed part of the celebration, with guests entertaining one another with gospel songs. Smiles filled the hall as the women embraced the joy of the occasion.