As part of paying tribute to the elderly, the Premier of the Northern Cape, Ms Sylvia Lucas, hosted the 100th birthday celebration of Ms Lena Motsumi today at GASCA Centre in Galeshewe.

Ms Lucas in her brief speech stated that as a Province we make sure that growing old should not make you feel that you have become a burden to society or that you have no value to add or further role to play. " Today is a day to celebrate 100 years of a life well-lived with Ma Motsumi and may God continue to Bless you".

The Premier has always expressed her passion at how society treats the elderly and thus deemed it necessary to celebrate this milestone with Ma Motsumi. As a Provincial Government we continue to encourage that our elderly have active lifestyles by partaking in activities at a number of Service Centres located across the Province in order to make sure that they age actively by interacting with one another and partaking in Sporting activities aptly referred to as the Golden Games as well as Aerobics.For the sick and frail there is Home Based Care where workers pay daily visits to these elderly to make sure that they receive their medication, assist them with bathing and eating.

We also encourage residential care because we believe that our elderly are better off spending their days with those whom they love and get cared for by them other than being placed in Old-age homes. We also have a programme called Inter-generational care where the elderly interact with the youth and share their experiences and life skills with them.

Ms Lucas said that, " The freedom of this country was gained through the struggle of elders like ma Motsumi and the generation of today must value the freedom that we enjoy".

The Premier was accompanied by the MEC for Social Development, Ms Tiny Chotelo.

Released by the Office of the Premier
Contact person: Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams, 083 447 6586