Middelburg– The Mpumalanga Department of Social Development hosted a lively Golden Games Luncheon at Kees Taljaard Stadium in Middelburg on 31 July 2025, uniting senior citizens across the Nkangala District for a day filled with fun, fitness and friendship.
Participants engaged in a range of exciting activities including the Duck and Brisk Walk, Dress-Up, Ball Kick and Pass, relay races and soccer matches. The event forms part of the department’s broader initiative to encourage active ageing, enhance physical well-being and strengthen social cohesion among the elderly.
Tlaki Mashego, district coordinator for Social Development and one of the event organisers, said the initiative aligns with the United Nations’ goals for healthy ageing.
“This initiative plays a vital role in combating loneliness among older persons,” said Mashego. “Some of our elders are left to look after grandchildren while their own children are involved in unproductive or harmful activities. Through this programme, they get to reclaim time for themselves, enjoy physical movement, and connect with their peers.”
She emphasised that such activities are not limited to large events, but also take place regularly at local home based care centres. These centres provide elders with opportunities to engage in community based programmes that support their overall wellbeing.
Mashego noted that participants were selected from department-funded centres as well as from the general community. “Despite the lack of rewards, our elders are just happy to be out here, being active and engaging socially,” she said. “This is not a once off event; it begins at local municipal level , progresses to district , ultimately reaches the provincial stage.”
Elderly participants expressed joy and appreciation for the event. Sarah Mahlangu, from Thembisile Hani Municipality, shared her gratitude for being part of the programme.
“At home I would just be sitting doing nothing. But here, I get to move my body and meet other people,” she said. “I also attend activities at my local centre, like knitting, but this is different. I’m meeting elders from other municipalities and forming new connections.”
Zodwa Sibanyoni, from Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, took part in the soccer game and described it as a meaningful experience.
“This initiative means a lot. We also get to go out and enjoy ourselves just like the youth, but in a healthy, productive way,” Sibanyoni said. “Instead of staying indoors or feeling isolated, we’re engaging in physical activities that benefit our minds and bodies.”
