LESOTHO DELEGATION IMPRESSED BY SOUTH AFRICA’S ELDERLY CARE FACILITIES AMIDST TSAKANE’S CHALLENGES

Precious Mupenzi

• The Kingdom of Lesotho’s delegation concluded their second day in Tsakane, South Africa, with a visit to state-run and privately operated old age homes.
• The delegation’s mission was to observe the differences between these facilities, understand their funding models, and learn about their day-to-day operations.
• The visit provided a clear picture of the South African government’s commitment to improving the lives of its elderly and disabled populations, as evidenced by the facilities’ dedication to providing essential care, dignity, and community for their residents.

As the Kingdom of Lesotho’s delegation wrapped up the second day in Tsakane, their visit to state-run and privately operated old age homes, including Zanele Mbeki Home and Tsakane Day Care Centre, offered a clear picture of the South African government’s commitment to improving the lives of its elderly and disabled populations. The facilities, all funded by the Department of Social Development (DSD), provide not only essential care but also a sense of dignity, community, and well-being for their residents.

The delegation’s mission was to observe the differences between state-run and privately run old age homes, understand their funding models, and learn about the day-to-day operations, human resource management, and facilities provided.

One of the homes visited, Tsakane Day Care Centre, is located in Zone 82 and operates from 8 am to 3 pm, offering care to 136 elderly individuals. The centre is staffed by 10 dedicated caregivers and provides a range of services aimed at ensuring the well-being of its residents. Apart from providing meals, including breakfast and lunch, the centre promotes active aging through a variety of programs such as arts and crafts, choir, gymnastics, and sports activities. The centre is also equipped with gym facilities and offers frail care for those in need. The Department of Social Development provides annual funding of R1,312,320 to support the operations of the centre.

Ms. Nomahlubi Radebe, the Centre Manager, expressed pride in the work being done at Tsakane Day Care Centre. “The number of residents continues to grow each year, which puts a strain on our monthly budget and resources,” she noted. “However, despite the challenges, we remain committed to providing the best care possible. We are honoured to have been chosen as part of the delegation’s visit to showcase the work we do.”

One of the centre’s staff members also highlighted the community’s strong support, despite some setbacks. “The community is very supportive of our work, but we did experience two break-ins last year,” the staff member shared. “Groceries were stolen, and some of our gym equipment was damaged. This has been a challenge, but we are working hard to rebuild and continue serving our elderly with care and dedication.”

For Ms. Radebe, her work is more than just a job; it’s a calling. “I previously worked as a caregiver and have always had a soft spot for older persons. I’ve also worked with persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. Spending time with them helps bridge the gap in their lives, especially for those who don’t see their families every day. I have a passion for my job, and it’s incredibly fulfilling.”

Tsakane Township is grappling with a surge in social ills, particularly crime. According to the latest SAPS report, sexual offences in the area have risen sharply, with 46 cases reported between April and June 2024, a concerning increase compared to the same period in 2020. Rape cases have also surged. The Victims of Crime Survey further highlights that residents are frequently subjected to high levels of robbery, home burglaries, and assaults. Beyond crime, Tsakane faces critical challenges such as unemployment and poverty. These issues worsen the township’s socio-economic struggles, impacting the quality of life for many residents.

The visit by the Lesotho delegation reaffirmed the importance of old age homes like Tsakane Day Care Centre, not just as care facilities but as places where the elderly can thrive and enjoy their golden years in dignity and community.