MEC MATHABO HLALELE WELCOMES FREE STATE OLDER PERSONS TO NATIONAL ACTIVE AGEING PROGRAMME IN BLOEMFONTEIN

By Thembile Nqabeni

• Free State Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Social Development, Ms Mathabo Hlalele, and Eastern Cape Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Social Development, Ms Bukiwe Fanta, welcomed older persons to the National Active Ageing Programme in Bloemfontein.
• The welcoming ceremony opened with a march from Kagisanong to the Outdoor Sports Centre, with older persons showing participation and solidarity.
• The two-day programme, held from 30 to 31 October 2026, brings together older persons from all provinces to promote active ageing, social interaction and well-being.

Free State MEC for Social Development, Ms Mathabo Hlalele, joined by Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development, Ms Bukiwe Fanta, welcomed older persons from across the Free State’s districts as participants gathered for the National Active Ageing Programme.

The welcoming ceremony began with a march from Kagisanong to the Outdoor Sports Centre in Bloemfontein, bringing older persons together in a show of participation and solidarity ahead of the national programme.

Addressing the participants on 30 October 2026, MEC Hlalele extended a warm welcome to older persons from the Free State and other provinces.
“We welcome all of you, and the other participants from all provinces, with love,” said MEC Hlalele.

The National Active Ageing Programme is taking place from 30 to 31 October 2026, bringing together older persons from across the country.

The programme provides a national platform for older persons to take part in activities that promote active ageing, social interaction and the well-being of senior citizens.

The gathering highlights the importance of recognising older persons’ contributions to society and encouraging their continued participation in community life.