Today, the Minister of Social Development, Bathabile Dlamini called on community members in Kanyamazane and surrounding villages to respect the rights of older persons.
Visiting communities in Kanyamazane, Thekwane, Msogwaba and Matsulu in Mpumalanga, Minister Dlamini told communities that the rights of older persons are human rights too.
In particular, Minister Dlamini urged communities to build circles of support for older persons to ensure that they age gracefully and with dignity.
“The true measure of a caring society is how it protects and respects its senior citizens, particularly in South Africa where our senior citizens have played a pivotal role in the struggle for freedom and democracy”, said Minister Dlamini.
The visit to Mpumalanga is part of the broader consultations that the Minister will engage in throughout the country. It is also part of the national campaign to highlight and promote the rights of older persons in South Africa.
The Department of Social Development is working closely with the South African Older Persons Forum (SAOPF) and Age in Action to promote active ageing through the participation of older persons in community and sporting activities. This is part of the Madrid plan of action on ageing which calls for governments throughout the world to take measures to address matters relating to the well being of older persons.
Minister Dlamini also appealed to young people present to work within community structures to help older persons in their own communities.
“Young people in our country have a lot to learn from our senior citizens. It is for this reason that we are promoting intergenerational solidarity programmes between young and older persons in our communities.
The Minister also called on young people to be vigilant and resist the temptation to experiment with alcohol and drugs.
Enquiries:
Thapelo Sakoana
Cell: 078 453 6750
Abram Phahlamohlaka
Cell: 082 928 6590
