KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, together with Members of the Provincial Legislature, attended the Senior Citizens Parliament in Umdoni Local Municipality under the Ugu District. The event was commemorated under the theme: “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights.”
The day was filled with song, dance, and celebration of diversity, as senior citizens showcased their talents and energy. The Senior Citizens Choir opened proceedings with a moving rendition of the National Anthem, setting a tone of unity, pride, and dignity.
The Senior Citizens Parliament served as a platform to raise and deliberate on challenges that continue to affect older persons, including:
• Access to affordable and quality healthcare.
• Provision of decent and affordable housing for the elderly.
• Challenges related to pension payouts and social grants.
• The urgent need to bridge the digital divide among senior citizens to ensure inclusivity in a changing world.
Presenting the Parliament’s resolutions, Premier Ntuli commended senior citizens not only for their longevity but also for their melodious voices, agility, and vigour, which they displayed throughout the event.
He further recommended the establishment of a Senior Citizens Council at municipal level to ensure that the concerns and needs of the elderly are consistently considered in local government planning and decision-making.
Premier Ntuli expressed satisfaction with the responses from various departments that engaged on issues raised by senior citizens. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring that policies and programmes remain people-centred, protective, and inclusive of senior citizens, recognising them as vital custodians of wisdom, heritage, and community stability.
The Senior Citizens Parliament once again underscored KwaZulu-Natal’s dedication to building a province where older persons are respected, protected, and empowered to continue playing a meaningful role in shaping society.