OLDER PERSONS GATHER IN RUSTENBURG TO CELEBRATE ACTIVE AGEING

By Precious Mupenzi

• Not even grey skies and persistent rain could dampen the spirits of the senior citizens as they gathered in the Rustenburg Civic Centre for the start of the 2025 National Active Ageing Programme.
• “Active ageing is about more than just adding years to life, it’s about adding life to years,” said Acting Director-General of the Department of Social Development, Peter Netshipale at the launch of the event.
• For many of the elderly, this is more than just a gathering – it is a chance to forget the hardships of daily life, and an opportunity to reclaim their space in society.

The voices of hundreds of older persons rose in unison, filling the Rustenburg Civic Centre with song and celebration. Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, they swayed rhythmically, their joy echoing through the hall.

For many, this was more than just a gathering – it was a moment of reunion, a time to forget the hardships of daily life, and an opportunity to reclaim their space in society. 

Despite the grey skies and persistent rain, nothing could dampen their spirits. They had travelled from across the country to participate in the 2025 National Active Ageing Programme – a Department of Social Development initiative that promotes healthy and independent living for older persons. 

Launched in 2008, the National Active Ageing Programme is a 365-day initiative designed to encourage older persons to lead active, engaged, and fulfilling lives. It is implemented at ward, district, and provincial levels, with various events celebrating older persons and their contributions to society. 

Speaking at the event, Acting Director-General of the Department of Social Development, Peter Netshipale, highlighted the importance of the programme in fostering dignity and inclusion for older persons: “Active ageing is about more than just adding years to life, it’s about adding life to years. It ensures that older persons remain healthy, independent, and actively involved in their communities.” 

More than 300 000 older persons have participated in the programme nationwide to date, engaging in sports, cultural performances, and policy dialogues aimed at addressing their needs and concerns. 

However, beneath the smiles and celebrations lies a darker reality – the abuse of older persons is on the rise. Reports indicate a sharp increase in financial, emotional, psychological, and physical abuse, with contributing factors including high unemployment, lack of recreational facilities, and weakening family support structures. 

Netshipale acknowledged these challenges, reaffirming the department’s commitment to strengthening legal protections and improving social services for older persons. 

“We have made significant progress in finalising the Older Persons Amendment Bill, which enhances protections against elder abuse, harmful traditional practices, and exploitation. This Bill has been presented to the National Council of Provinces and has received widespread support.” 

The Bill seeks to bolster safeguards for older persons, ensuring they are treated with dignity, respect, and care. 

Over the next two days, participants will engage in the Golden Games, a series of sports and recreational activities designed to promote physical health, social interaction, and emotional well-being.

These games, alongside cultural and artistic performances, serve as vital tools in delaying frailty and maintaining independence. 

The North West Department of Social Development, as the host province, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting older persons, recognizing their crucial role in family structures and communities.

Masego Mekgwe, Chief Director of Welfare Services, emphasised the need for continued economic empowerment and social inclusion: 

“Many older persons serve as caregivers, raising grandchildren without financial support. They are the backbone of our communities. It is our duty to ensure they receive the respect, resources, and opportunities they deserve.”