In Conversation With Loiusa Mmutle: Deputy Director - Elder Persons (National Department of Social Development)
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The recent spate of brutal attacks on older persons in the area, the Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, together with the Provincial MEC of Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, gathered today in Fort Beaufort to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. This day serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need to protect and uphold the rights of older persons and to address the alarming incidents of abuse and violence against them.
Minister Tolashe emphasized, “Today, we stand together to raise awareness about elder abuse and to honor the dignity of our elderly citizens. It is unacceptable that older persons, who have contributed so much to our society, are facing violence and abuse. We must come together as a community to safeguard their rights and ensure their safety.”
The awareness program brought together community members, local leaders, and organizations dedicated to the welfare of older persons. It provided a platform for discussions on the challenges faced by the elderly, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Minister Tolashe and MEC Fanta urged community members to be vigilant and to report any instances of abuse or neglect.
MEC Bukiwe Fanta stated, “As a society, we have a moral obligation to protect our elders. They deserve to live with dignity and respect. We must work collaboratively to create safe environments for older persons, ensuring that they are not only protected but also celebrated for their wisdom and contributions.”
During the commemoration, both leaders highlighted the importance of education and awareness campaigns aimed at preventing elder abuse. They called for greater involvement of community members in identifying and addressing the signs of abuse, advocating for the rights of older persons, and promoting intergenerational dialogue.
“Let us empower our communities to stand up against elder abuse. We encourage families and friends to check in on their elderly relatives, to listen to their concerns, and to ensure that they feel safe and valued,” Minister Tolashe added.
The day concluded with a commitment to strengthen support systems for older persons and to enhance the role of social services in protecting their rights. The Department of Social Development will continue to work alongside community organizations and stakeholders to implement effective strategies aimed at combating elder abuse.
The commemoration comes after Cabinet approved the 90-day acceleration peogram to fight Gender Based Violence and Femicide. Members of the public are urged to report all forms of abuse against older persons on 0800 428 428.
Minister Tolashe emphasized, “Today, we stand together to raise awareness about elder abuse and to honor the dignity of our elderly citizens. It is unacceptable that older persons, who have contributed so much to our society, are facing violence and abuse. We must come together as a community to safeguard their rights and ensure their safety.”
The awareness program brought together community members, local leaders, and organizations dedicated to the welfare of older persons. It provided a platform for discussions on the challenges faced by the elderly, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Minister Tolashe and MEC Fanta urged community members to be vigilant and to report any instances of abuse or neglect.
MEC Bukiwe Fanta stated, “As a society, we have a moral obligation to protect our elders. They deserve to live with dignity and respect. We must work collaboratively to create safe environments for older persons, ensuring that they are not only protected but also celebrated for their wisdom and contributions.”
During the commemoration, both leaders highlighted the importance of education and awareness campaigns aimed at preventing elder abuse. They called for greater involvement of community members in identifying and addressing the signs of abuse, advocating for the rights of older persons, and promoting intergenerational dialogue.
“Let us empower our communities to stand up against elder abuse. We encourage families and friends to check in on their elderly relatives, to listen to their concerns, and to ensure that they feel safe and valued,” Minister Tolashe added.
The day concluded with a commitment to strengthen support systems for older persons and to enhance the role of social services in protecting their rights. The Department of Social Development will continue to work alongside community organizations and stakeholders to implement effective strategies aimed at combating elder abuse.
The commemoration comes after Cabinet approved the 90-day acceleration peogram to fight Gender Based Violence and Femicide. Members of the public are urged to report all forms of abuse against older persons on 0800 428 428.