By Staff Reporter
news@alexreporter.co.za
Following a successful first day of the Active Ageing Programme at the Birchwood hotel on Monday , older persons have on the 6 October 2022, came in their numbers to keep themselves fit.
They participated and competed in the National Golden Games at Germiston Stadium.
The weather gods were also on the side of the older persons even though there was reported chance of heavy rains.
Senior citizens looked rejuvenated from the early hours of the morning as they challenged each other with sporting chants and traditional songs delivered with great energy and passion.
Their celebratory melodies were elevated as they were led by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the drum majorettes to officially open the Golden Games.
To prepare for the physical activities ahead; blood pressure, sugar levels, HIV and COVID-19 testing were available to older persons and they also had access to various medical services on-site.
Accompanied by Gauteng Premier, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, MECs of Social Development, in Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape and Gauteng, the Minister of Social Development, Ms Lindiwe Zulu, officially opened the 2022 Golden Games.
During the opening ceremony, the Minister expressed her appreciation to the older persons who attended the Golden Games and thanked them for the contribution they continue to make to the country especially looking after orphaned and vulnerable children on behalf of the state.
Guided by the older persons Act 13 of 2006 and the Madrid Plan of Action on Ageing, the department of social development in partnership with the departments of health, sports and recreation and the South African older persons Forum introduced the active ageing programme to transform the ageing experience and empower senior citizens to stay active and engaged so that they can continue to enjoy healthy and purposeful lives.
Immediately after the official opening, the Golden Games kicked off and older persons participated in different sporting codes including Dark Walk, Dress Up, Pegging and Soccer.
The Minister also announced Mpumalanga as the hosting Province of the games in 2023.
She handed over the torch, to the MEC of Social Development in Mpumalanga, Ms Lindiwe Ntshalintshali as a sign that Mpumalanga will be hosting next year.
The Golden Games continue on Wednesday, 07 December 2022 from 08h00 – 16h00
at Germiston Stadium, Gauteng Province.
Pics supplied
