October 21, 2003
By Thomas Thale
ABOUT 1 000 senior citizens were treated to a feast at the Klipriviersberg Recreation Centre on Thursday at an event organised to mark the International Day for the Elderly - celebrated annually on the first day of October.
The event was organised by the city and co-sponsored by Pick and Pay, the Fresh Produce Market and Radio 702. The senior citizens present were each given a hamper of dried groceries and vegetables.
The United Nations General Assembly, in 1990, designated 1 October as the International Day For the Elderly or "International Day for Older Persons". The celebration is the brainchild of the UN World Assembly on Aging, which was formed in 1982 to explore and tend to the needs of the elderly in the world.
Senior citizens from across the city were transported to the event by buses organised by the regions. Many were dressed warmly but formally, and they were in good spirits, as they cheered and ululated throughout the proceedings.
Executive mayor, Amos Masondo, was given a standing ovation as he walked into the hall. In his keynote address, the mayor drew attention to the hardships faced by the elderly. He identified memory loss, financial and psychological abuse and social alienation as some of the problems facing the elderly.
Bongi Mokaba, director of social services in the city, said the elderly deserve recognition for their contribution to the development of the city. "Through this event, the city demonstrates its commitment to recognising the senior citizens for the role they played, whether as domestic workers, teachers, nurses or in any other profession, in the development of Johannesburg," she said to loud cheers.
"Idlozi ulazi li sa phila (acknowledge your ancestors when they are still alive!)" said Sibongile Mazibuko, chief operating officer of the city, to thunderous applause.
Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, Yusuf Abramjee, station manager of 702, said the station would observe the day on an annual basis. "The elderly bring joy to our hearts, they are the ones who developed this city and nation and we congratulate them for their contribution."
Abramjee promised to organise an even bigger celebration next year.
Councillor Christine Walters, described the elderly as important custodians of historical knowledge.
In the end, it was the senior citizens themselves, with their glowing faces, who expressed their appreciation, as they queued to give a word of thanks to the mayor. Christinah Diale, from Alexandra, could not hide her excitement. "It is nice here. I love the place, the food hoo! It's like a machine," she exclaimed.
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