Zilungile Mkhize
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for greater protection, recognition and respect for senior citizens, saying they should be able to spend their later years in dignity.
Ntuli was speaking at an International Day for Senior Citizens event at the Inkosi Msinga Mlaba Hall in KwaXimba, eThekwini, today.
The event was held under the theme, “The Age of Longevity: Connecting Generations and Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.”
The Premier paid tribute to older people for their role as custodians of knowledge, history, heritage and culture, describing them as an important moral compass for the province.
The event also honoured centenarians, with Ntuli and members of the provincial executive presenting them with gifts in recognition of their longevity.
The KZN Premier sung praises of event Program Director and Social Development MEC, Mbali Shinga as her department oversees the pension programs and some needs of the elderly in the province.
“This day is not about us as the government but this is your day. I was very impressed with the way the program director facilitated the program.”
” You can tell that she is the MEC that takes care of the elderly and makes sure that you receive your pensions every month here in KZN,” said Ntuli.
