The Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) directorate in Region F, in partnership with Sports and Recreation Region F, hosted an International Tea Day celebration dedicated to the elderly residents of Johannesburg on Tuesday, 21 May 2024, at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre. International Tea Day, celebrated globally on 21 May, was first conceptualised in 2005 and adopted by the United Nations in 2019. It highlights the rich history and cultural and economic significance of tea worldwide, underscoring its central place in our culture.
The event provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect over their shared love for tea. Tea, a symbol of friendship and positive relationships across diverse cultures, was at the heart of this gathering. A range of speakers delivered valuable information on topics such as aging gracefully, the importance of having a will, recognising scams, health, and accessing social services.
Attendees enjoyed a delightful array of aromatic tea flavours while engaging in meaningful conversations. The atmosphere was vibrant as the elderly received five-star treatment, including goody bags, health information, massages, chiropractic and podiatric services, fun games, and dancing.
The spirit of generosity was palpable, with various stakeholders and local businesses donating items such as goody bags, cakes, biscuits, samosas, and other savoury treats for the city’s most vulnerable residents.
The event was graced by the presence of Regional Director, Region F, Irene Mafune; Ward 58 Councillor Ricky Nair; and Lesibana Lamola, Chief of Staff in the Office of the MMC for Development Planning, Cllr Eunice Mgcina.
Representing the MMC, Lesibana Lamola said: “The City cares about the elderly, and there are programmes such as the Expanded Social Package (ESP) which offers rebates to the elderly. I encourage you to apply for such services to avoid depleting your social income grants. You are valued stakeholders in our communities, and we care about your wellbeing as you play an important role in our lives and the lives of our children.”
Mafune added: “Our seniors play a critical role in our communities; we hold them in high regard. The role they play cannot be taken lightly. As a city, we always strive to improve the living conditions of our elderly, working together with other spheres of government.”
She also thanked local businesses, the private sector, and stakeholders who contributed to making the day a success. “We hope to improve our partnerships for future projects of this nature,” she said.
Sibongile Mjangqeka from Age-in-Action, a non-profit organisation aimed at protecting and promoting the interests of older persons, emphasised the importance of staying active. “We encourage old people to keep themselves active, take up walking every day, read books to keep their minds alert, and participate in activities for older people in the area; join clubs where you can take up sewing, knitting, and other hand activities. Our organisation promotes programmes aimed at advancing the well-being, safety, and graceful aging of older adults.”
A 70-year-old resident of Ward 58, Martha Dichoke, expressed her joy, dancing happily to the music. “We are happy to be here and glad to know that the city and businesses in the area care for us. We have tasted different kinds of tea and delicious cakes. This was such a beautiful occasion, and we hope to have more events like this in the future.”
The region collaborated with internal and external stakeholders, including the University of Johannesburg, South African Police Service, the City’s Health department, Clicks, Capitec, City’s Sports and Recreation, and others.
Written by Dudu Lushaba
22/05/2024
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