GOLDEN GAMES PROMOTE ACTIVE AGEING AND SENIOR WELL-BEING IN KZN

By Trevor Khuzwayo 

• The Active Ageing Golden Games, opened by KZN MECs Mbali Shinga and Mntomuhle Khawula in Mandeni, saw 1,600 participants from 11 districts gather to promote physical and social activities for older persons.
• The games aim to enhance the quality of life for seniors by encouraging active ageing, social cohesion, and awareness of the capabilities of older individuals, aligning with constitutional rights.
• The event, held during Social Development Month, highlights the government’s commitment to senior welfare through collaboration with various departments and local municipalities.

KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Social Development, Mbali Shinga, and MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, recently opened the Active Ageing Golden Games in Mandeni, where participants from all districts of the province gathered. The National Active Ageing Programme supports individuals aged 60 and above by encouraging physical activity through exercise and sports. Aimed at reducing the risk of chronic diseases, the programme enhances the quality of life and overall well-being of the elderly. By promoting an active lifestyle, it helps participants maintain their health, mobility, and sense of community, fostering a more fulfilling life in their later years.

“Maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial for our older citizens, bringing significant benefits to their well-being and quality of life,” Shinga emphasised.

MEC Shinga reaffirmed her commitment to promoting physical, social, and recreational activities for the elderly, stating, “The Golden Games serve as an excellent platform for social cohesion and fellowship among our seniors, demonstrating the government’s dedication to their welfare.”

The Golden Games aim to improve the quality of life and health of older persons, encourage active ageing, and broaden their opportunities. “We seek to raise awareness about the capabilities of older individuals in sports and recreation, advocating for active ageing even in the province’s most remote areas,” Shinga added, highlighting the alignment with the Constitution and the fundamental rights of older South Africans.

As part of Social Development Month in October, MEC Shinga remarked, “We celebrate our commitment to the well-being of our communities, especially our senior citizens.” The event features 1,600 participants from 11 districts, made possible through collaboration with the Office of the Premier, the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, the Department of Health, local municipalities, and the Provincial Older Persons Forum.

The Active Ageing Programme operates within a comprehensive legislative framework, guided by significant international and national instruments, including the Madrid Plan of Action and the International Protocol on the Rights of Older Persons.

“Our Constitution, particularly the Bill of Rights, affirms the dignity of all individuals, ensuring their rights are respected,” Shinga concluded.

“She noted that the Older Persons Act 13 of 2006 promotes the empowerment and protection of older individuals, guiding national policies like the Social Assistance Act and the Mental Health Act.

The Active Ageing Programme focuses on keeping older persons active and engaged in their communities. “Over the years, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development has partnered with various stakeholders to implement services for older persons in an integrated manner,” she explained.

This programme targets three key areas of the Madrid Plan of Action: older persons and development, advancing health and well-being into old age, and ensuring enabling and supportive environments. “We currently operate through 365 community-based care services and 44 residential facilities, with each stakeholder contributing to the programme’s sustainability.”

During Social Development Month, MEC Shinga emphasised the importance of focusing on older persons. Recently, we celebrated the International Day for Older Persons, reinforcing our commitment to strengthening care and support systems backed by funding for residential facilities offering 24/7 care.

From October 8 to 24, the Department will consult on the Older Persons Bill across various districts to refine our legislative framework. The MEC acknowledged the urgent need to expand training opportunities in geriatrics and gerontology, noting that 160 social workers and stakeholders have been trained on relevant policies and legislation.

MEC Shinga expressed pride in the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development being recognized as the best-performing province in the National Active Ageing Programme for seven consecutive years. “Despite budget limitations, we have secured funding to support district activities and events, including the current Provincial Games in Ilembe District.”

In conclusion, MEC Shinga stated, “The Active Ageing Programme reflects our strong commitment to respecting and caring for older persons in KwaZulu-Natal.” She encouraged everyone to “continue improving our training and engage with our communities, ensuring our seniors are not only cared for but celebrated.”