GOGO MASONDO EMBRACES YOUTHFUL ENERGY AT NATIONAL ACTIVE AGEING EVENT

By Precious Mupenzi

• Gogo Chris Masondo, who is attending this year’s National Active Ageing Campaign, has taken part in the event five years in a row, building friendships, sharing ideas and learning from other participants.
• The 70-year-old from KwaZulu-Natal says the programme has transformed her life.
• A highlight of the national initiative is the Golden Games, where Gogo Masondo will take part in the ball pass and kick category.

“Ngizizwa ngiyitshitshi!” (I feel like a young maiden!), exclaims Gogo Chris Masondo, her laughter ringing through the Rustenburg Civic Centre as she moves effortlessly up and down the stairs.

Dressed in full traditional Zulu attire, the 70-year-old retired teacher from the Amajuba district in KwaZulu-Natal, is among the 1 700 older persons participating in this year’s National Active Ageing Programme – an initiative by the Department of Social Development to promote healthy ageing.

For five consecutive years, Gogo Masondo has made the journey to the event, a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of staying active.

“I always look forward to this programme. It is not just about the games, but about connecting with other older persons. Over the years, we have built friendships, shared ideas, and learned from one another. I truly appreciate the departments behind this initiative because it empowers us and encourages us to stay healthy,” she said.

When she first attended the programme five years ago, Gogo Masondo weighed 98 kilograms. Now, thanks to regular participation in sports, exercise, and lifestyle changes, she proudly weighs 81 kilograms, a transformation she credits to the active ageing programme.

“I feel so much lighter and healthier. I don’t have any pain in my body, and I feel young again! Before coming here, we had medical check-ups, and I was so happy with my results. I am fit for all activities,” she explained.

However, her excitement is tinted with sadness. Many of her peers from home, whom she tirelessly encouraged to join the programme, never took it seriously – brushing it off as unnecessary or doubting its impact. Sadly, most of them have since passed away, their lives cut short by chronic illnesses and unhealthy lifestyles that could have been managed or even prevented. 

“I kept urging them to take part, telling them how much this programme has helped me, but many didn’t see the need. Now, most of them are no longer with us. That’s why I cherish this opportunity even more, it has truly changed my life,” she reflected.

Gogo Masondo is among the hundreds of older persons who will be competing in the Golden Games, a key highlight of the active ageing programme.

Tomorrow, 19 February 2025, she will participate in the ball pass and kick category at the Impala Rugby Stadium, showcasing her agility and endurance.

The Golden Games aim to keep older persons physically and mentally engaged, promoting longevity and wellness.

For participants like Gogo Masondo, the games are not just about competition but about proving that age is no barrier to an active and fulfilling life.