KwaZulu-Natal Premier Dr Zweli Mkhize has called on the people of KwaZulu-Natal province to join hands and unite to fight all acts of brutality against elders especially women. He was speaking today during the Sitting of Senior Citizens Parliament at Hammarsdale Stadium in Mpumalanga Township.
Because of the prevalence of sexual violence perpetrated against elders in recent weeks in this province, the premier has also expressed his support for a march against the sexual abuse of elders which will be attended by thousands of elders coming from various parts of the province. The march will start ahead of the event planned by the provincial government to commemorate the International Day for Senior Citizens at the same stadium.
“The importance and value of senior citizens cannot be over-emphasised. The older generation is the one which contributed, through their experience and knowledge, to build the society of today.”
“It is for these reasons that government commits itself to promoting and protecting the Rights of older persons.”
“Central to this commitment is the acknowledgement that senior citizens have human rights like any other citizens. They have a right to participate in socio-economic activities that would improve the quality of their lives.”
“They have a right to demand quality healthcare and adequate infrastructure such as housing, roads and decent education for their grandchildren. They have a right to demand access to basic services such as water and electricity.”
“All government departments are therefore expected at all times to implement programmes that would benefit senior citizens.”
“Through the efforts of the late Reverend Khoza Mgojo we established the Provincial Senior Citizens Forum, a structure that is constituted by Senior Citizens representing District Municipalities, Government, Civil Societyand Private Sector and led by the Chairperson.
The forum which has been part of the sitting of the legislature here in Hammarsdale was created to serve as the voice for senior citizens. Senior citizens are given the opportunity to take strategic decisions on matters that affect them as well as matters of delivery of government services.
“As a result of contributions from the members of the forum, all efforts of the provincial government aimed at champion the cause of senior citizens have been strengthened. We want issues around social security, food security programmes, and healthy living lifestyles including active ageing to always be on top of the agenda.”
Enquiries:
Ndabezinhle Sibiya, Spokesperson for Premier Zweli Mkhize
Cell: 082 375 4742
