CELEBRATING ACTIVE AGEING IN MBOMBELA MPUMALANGA

By Tshepo Motholo 

• On March 20th, the Golden Games commenced in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, embodying a celebration of athleticism and the resilience of older adults from diverse provinces.

• Participants converge to share talents and stories, with choirs representing their provinces adding a harmonious touch to the festivities, uniting through the language of music.

• Amidst anticipation for sporting events like soccer, teams exhibit unwavering determination, showcasing dedication and resilience, highlighting the enduring power of the human spirit regardless of age.

On March 20th, the vibrant city of Mbombela Mpumalanga came alive with the commencement of the highly anticipated Golden Games, a celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of the elderly. The event, which runs from 21-23 March 2024, has drawn participants from across various provinces, all converging to showcase their talents and share their stories in honour of the Active Ageing Programme.

At the heart of the Golden Games lies a deep reverence for the contributions and resilience of older adults. This year, the event welcomes a diverse array of participants, each embodying the ethos of vitality and determination. Among the highlights are the captivating performances by choirs representing their respective provinces, adding a melodious touch to the festivities and uniting participants through the universal language of music.

Many of the esteemed participants have a longstanding history with the Department of Social Development’s Golden Games, having competed in previous editions and forged enduring friendships along the way. Their journeys are rich with experience, and their presence serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit of human endeavour.

One notable aspect of this year’s Golden Games is the sense of anticipation surrounding the sporting events, particularly soccer. Despite the inherent challenges posed by the lack of information about their opponents, teams like Gauteng remain undaunted, buoyed by their meticulous preparation and unwavering confidence. Speaking ahead of the game, a soccer coach from Team Gauteng expressed satisfaction with his team’s readiness, emphasizing their dedication and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

“It’s true that we don’t have detailed information about our opponents,” remarked the coach, “but I am confident in the abilities of my team. We’ve put in the work, and I believe we are well-equipped to deliver a stellar performance.”

As the Golden Games unfold, participants and spectators alike are treated to a spectacle of talent, determination, and camaraderie. Beyond the thrill of competition, the event serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of active ageing and the enduring power of the human spirit, irrespective of age or background.

In the scenic surroundings of Mbombela Mpumalanga, the Golden Games offer a platform for older adults to shine brightly, inspiring generations to come and reaffirming the timeless adage that age is but a number. As the festivities continue to unfold, one thing remains abundantly clear: in the game of life, the golden years are truly golden, brimming with vitality, passion, and endless possibilities.