By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – Maluti-a-Phofung Executive Mayor Tumelo Thebe has called for elderly residents to be formally included in a municipal advisory board, arguing that their experience and wisdom are critical to improving service delivery and strengthening governance across the municipality.
Thebe made the remarks during his Nelson Mandela Day programme, where he dedicated his 67 minutes to senior citizens from various luncheon clubs at the Phuthaditjhaba Stadium.
The event featured recreational sporting activities and interactive discussions, which the mayor described as “wisdom engagements” aimed at drawing on the life experience of older residents.
He said spending time with senior citizens was both inspiring and educational, noting that many are retired professionals with decades of experience in education, healthcare, engineering, public administration and other sectors that could assist the municipality in addressing community challenges.
“The elderly are best placed to tell us about the challenges they face and the practical solutions that can improve their quality of life because they live these realities every day,” said Thebe.
He said the proposed advisory board should become a platform where elders can provide guidance on service delivery, community development and governance while also advising the municipality on issues directly affecting senior citizens.
According to Thebe, the board’s role should extend beyond identifying service delivery shortcomings to addressing the everyday hardships experienced by older people, including social isolation, safety concerns, access to healthcare and the growing responsibility many grandparents carry in raising their grandchildren.
He said many elderly residents live alone and have become increasingly vulnerable due to age, poverty and limited support systems, making it essential for the municipality to develop programmes that protect their dignity and wellbeing.
“The knowledge and experience of our elders is a valuable resource that must not be overlooked. Their voices should form part of the decisions that shape our municipality and improve the lives of all residents,” Thebe said.
The mayor’s proposal aligns with the broader spirit of Nelson Mandela Day, which encourages active citizenship and community service while recognising the contribution of older generations in building stronger and more inclusive communities.
