The event, described as a celebration of wellness and community, takes place at the Dr Rantlai Molemela Stadium and Outdoor Sports Centre in Bloemfontein.

The games bring together older people from across the province, with participants hailing from Mangaung, Gariep, Thabo Mofutsanyana, Lejweleputswa, and Fezile Dabi districts. 

This event is the culmination of a journey that began at a local level and moved through district competitions, highlighting the importance of sustained physical and social engagement, said Thembile Nqabeni, spokesperson for the department.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that older people remain active and engaged in their golden years. “This is an initiative that tries to make sure that older people remain active even in their old age,” said Nqabeni.

The programme is packed with purpose-driven activities, including a choir festival and soccer tournaments for both men and women. The games also serve as a platform for selecting the province’s best. 

Betty Mocholotsi Mangate, director of special needs at the department, emphasised the significance of the event. “We are going to choose a team that will be representing us at the national Golden Games in Cape Town,” said Mangate. 

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane cvs