DELMAS – In a heartfelt initiative to uplift the elderly, on June 02, 2025, the Deputy Speaker of the Mpumalanga Legislature, Sam Masango, generously donated groceries to the Botleng Centre for the Aged. He was accompanied by Cllr Blondie Mbalati, who was acting as the Speaker of Victor Khanye Local Municipality (VKLM), Cllr Dorcas Yeko, and Pulane Sihlangu from the Department of Social Development. This meaningful event marked the beginning of a year-long partnership with local enterprise Motau Mining, which will supply groceries to the centre over the next twelve months. The initiative aims to reduce food insecurity among the elderly, who often face numerous challenges.
Speaking to the Highveld Chronicle, Masango stressed the importance of supporting the elderly in communities.
“As the Portfolio Committee on Social Services, we’ve seen firsthand the hardships faced by older persons in our communities. That’s why we’re taking proactive steps to assist them, starting with this centre in Delmas. We firmly believe that every elderly person deserves dignity, care and a better quality of life. Our goal is to develop a state-of-the-art facility that meets their needs and creates opportunities for improved living,” he said.
He further highlighted the importance of preparing infrastructure for an ageing population, noting that ageing can be made more manageable with the right care.
“It’s crucial that older persons are well looked after, and we need to ensure their living conditions are suitable,” he added.
Sihlangu also shared updates on the department’s continued support for the centre.
“The centre, together with the department, participated in the IDP process and submitted a request for a stand where a new building for the centre could be constructed. The request was positively received,” she said.
She mentioned that the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) had started gardening projects at the centre and was funding its operations to the value of R152,000. Sihlangu expressed appreciation for the cooperation between the Legislature, donors and stakeholders, and pledged to continue mobilising additional funding for the centre.
In his closing remarks, Masango encouraged those present to uphold the spirit of helping one another. He urged the business community and individuals to continue supporting the centre and similar initiatives.
“More still needs to be done to keep the elderly healthy and active,” he concluded.
