KZN ACTIVE AGEING CHOIR TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT FAREWELL CEREMONY FOR GOLDEN GAMES

By Mthobisi Mbanjwa

• As the KwaZulu-Natal Active Ageing choir sang at a ceremony ahead of the national Golden Games, they served as a reminder that ageing should be a time to celebrate life, remain engaged, and inspire future generations.
• The choir will be taking part in the annual games, taking place in Rustenburg, North West, from 18 to 20 February 2025.
• The games are an opportunity to show “our grandchildren and communities that taking care of yourself means you can still enjoy life, no matter your age”, said Nomalanga Shabalala (69).

The KwaZulu-Natal Active Ageing choir captivated the audience as they took centre stage at a special farewell ceremony for senior citizens heading to the Golden Games in the North West Province.

The 2024/25 National Active Ageing Programme – known as the Golden Games – takes place from 18 to 20 February 2025 in Rustenburg.

The choir’s uplifting performance was the highlight of the farewell ceremony, celebrating the power of music, movement, and community in promoting healthy ageing.

As KwaZulu-Natal’s ambassadors, the choir members will not only showcase their musical talent but also inspire others to embrace active lifestyles, proving that age is no barrier to fitness, social engagement, and personal growth.

The Golden Games brings together senior citizens from across South Africa to participate in various sporting activities, reinforcing the importance of staying physically and mentally active. For many participants, the games offer more than just competition – they provide a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.

“For us, these games are about more than winning medals,” said Nomalanga Shabalala (69), a choir member and participant in the 100m walk. “It’s about showing our grandchildren and communities that taking care of yourself means you can still enjoy life, no matter your age.”

Ntokozo Mdlalose (75), the chairperson for the KwaZulu-Natal Senior Citizens Forum, expressed his excitement that the choir will be competing in the games. “This has given me new energy. I never thought I would be travelling to represent my province at this age, but here I am, proving that we are never too old to dream.”

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli and MEC for Social Development Mbali Shinga attended the ceremony, offering words of encouragement to the departing team.

Ntuli praised the seniors for their dedication to active ageing, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting programmes that enhance the well-being of elderly citizens.

Shinga delivered a heartfelt farewell message, emphasising the significance of their participation: “Our senior citizens are a source of wisdom and strength in our communities.

“The Golden Games are not just about sport – they are about restoring dignity, keeping healthy, and enjoying life to the fullest.

“As you travel to the North West know that you are carrying the pride of KwaZulu-Natal with you. You are our ambassadors of wellness, and we wish you success and joy in the competition.”

As the KwaZulu-Natal Active Ageing Choir sang their final song before departure, their voices filled the venue with hope and determination. Their performance was a reminder that ageing should not mean isolation but rather a time to celebrate life, remain engaged, and inspire future generations.