GOLDEN GAMES PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING FOR SENIORS IN GAUTENG

By Sipho Ncube.

• Golden Games enables seniors to stay active, social, and healthy, highlighting that wellness is ageless.
• With the Premier’s Office, Health, Social Development, and Sports working together, seniors receive both technical guidance and medical oversight to ensure safe participation.
• Beyond health promotion, the games identify and prepare senior athletes from the Northern Corridor to showcase their talents at the upcoming Provincial Golden Games.

On Friday, 29 August 2025, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD), in partnership with the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, hosted the annual Regional Golden Games, to champion active ageing and holistic wellness among senior citizens.
Winnie Rammutla, Chief Physiotherapist at the Gauteng Department of Health and Wellness, encouraged participants to become ambassadors of active ageing by motivating fellow abogogo and bomkhulu (older persons) to take part in the games. She emphasised that participation not only fosters social connection but also delivers vital health benefits that enhance quality of life.
“Inspire other senior citizens to take part in these games,” said Rammutla. “They promote a healthy lifestyle. If you know someone who cannot get to a healthcare facility, notify your nearest clinic. We also offer home visits for Primary Health Care.”
Gugulethu Dlamini from the Office of the Premier reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting active ageing initiatives. Dlamini emphasised that the Premier’s Office fully supports these activities, demonstrating that active living transcends age. The Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation plays a key role by providing technical expertise in sports officiating.
Dlamini also noted that the Department of Health and Wellness ensures all participants are medically screened before competing. “These games help delay the onset of chronic illnesses and reduce reliance on chronic medication,” she added.
She further highlighted that the initiative also serves as a selection platform for older persons who will represent the Northern Corridor in the upcoming Provincial Games scheduled for September.
Senior citizens from across the Northern Corridor enthusiastically participated in various sporting events, including the Duck Walk, Dress-Up Race, Ball Throw, Ring the Stick, Ball Pass, Goal Shoot, and athletics.