BLOEMFONTEIN – Social Development Minister Dina Pule has challenged stereotypes about ageing, saying older persons remain valuable contributors to society through their talents, wisdom and continued participation in community life.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 National Active Ageing Programme at Dr Petrus Rantlai Molemela Stadium in Mangaung on Friday, 30 October, Pule said age should never be a barrier to ambition, creativity or meaningful participation in society.
“Your presence here demonstrates that ageing does not mark the end of ambition, creativity, physical activity, leadership or the desire to contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
Held under the theme “Golden Years: See Our Value; Golden Opportunities: Promote Our Rights”, the two-day programme brings together older persons from all nine provinces for the National Golden Games and Older Persons Choir Festival.
Pule said the gathering celebrated not only sporting achievements and musical talent but also the enduring contributions of older persons to families, communities and the country.
“We must move beyond viewing older persons merely as recipients of social assistance or care. They are active citizens, custodians of knowledge, community leaders, mentors, artists, athletes and contributors to our economy and social development,” she said.
Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae welcomed participants to Mangaung, expressing pride in the province hosting the national event.
“The Free State is not just a province to travel through, but also a destination worth visiting,” she said, wishing participants successful and enjoyable games.
Free State Social Development MEC Mathabo Hlalele also welcomed the delegations, assuring them of a warm reception in the province.
The Golden Games feature athletics, soccer and indigenous games, while the choir festival provides a platform for participants to showcase their talents, celebrate their cultural heritage and build friendships across provincial boundaries.
Pule said the programme demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for older persons to remain physically active, socially connected and engaged in activities that give meaning to their lives.
“The true value of the Golden Games lies not only in medals and trophies, but also in the friendships we build, the confidence we inspire and the positive example we set for future generations,” she said.
She called on municipalities to extend active-ageing initiatives beyond the annual national event, ensuring that older persons have regular opportunities to participate in sport, recreation and community development.
“Active ageing must not be confined to an annual national gathering. It must become an integral part of our community development efforts,” Pule said.
She also emphasised the importance of intergenerational solidarity, saying younger people had much to learn from the experiences and resilience of older persons.
“Our older persons are not merely the keepers of our past; they are active participants in our present and valued contributors to our future,” she said.
The National Active Ageing Programme concludes on Saturday, 31 October, in Bloemfontein.
