The Environmental Resource Management Department of the metro hosted senior citizens from Vosloorus Old Age Home at the Rondebult Bird Sanctuary last Friday.
The Environmental Programme for the Elderly was aimed at creating a dialogue with the elderly about environmental issues they are facing and taught them how to report them and how to work with the department to ensure a “cleaner and greener” metro.
One of the organisers and programme director Prince Rulashe took to the podium to welcome guests and shared the department’s plans for the day, which not only entailed speakers taking to the podium to discuss environmental wellness, but also physical health.
Fitness trainers Rebothile Mathebana from Njabulo Eco Health and Fitness in Thokoza and Charmaine Mothibeli from Poloko-Impilo-Enhle Aerobics Club in Vosloorus were among those who spoke to the pensioners.
They put together a demonstration of a quick exercise routine for them that would help them keep active.
“This is not an event because that would mean we would only see each other at the next event, probably months later, but this meeting is a request for us to start a conversation with you, which means we will see you often and we’ll constantly get to engage with you regarding the environmental issues we face as a community,” said Rulashe.
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The official welcome and opening speech was delivered by Ward 40 Clr Sibongile Buthelezi.
“Although my invitation was late, I am happy to be here with you all today,” she said.
“This is a lovely initiative by the environmental resources department, and I know we have the perfect guests here who will convey the message to our youth.
“I want to talk about the importance of knowing what is happening in your community and in your country.
“When you know what is happening you know what avenues are available to you should you wish to report an issue, or share an idea.
“We have a lot of things going on in our communities and things being announced on the news which could help many of our people if they took the time to listen and participate.”
Following an interactive speech by the councillor, the Vosloorus Old Age Home members were addressed by Lindiwe Nkosi from the environmental resources department, who spoke about preserving nature for future generations.
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“It is our responsibility to preserve nature to ensure that future generations know what we’re talking about when we talk about rhinos and popular lakes in our areas.
“For us to be able to still have this beauty around us, we need to keep it clean and act fast on anything that threatens our environment,” she said.
The message communicated by everyone who took to the podium encouraged the elderly to report any environmental challenges they faced and keep the conversation of agriculture, conservation and restoration going in order to teach younger generations how to sustain themselves and nature.
“Our department needs cooperation from all residents. We need to manage our energy, water and waste unequivocally.
“We need our communities to challenge us. Don’t rush to say we aren’t doing our jobs, report any irregularities and we will deliver on what we have promised, but we need you to work in collaboration with us,” said Lucky Mathonsi, from the environmental resources department.
To report any environmental issues in your area call 011 999 2970 or 011 999 3443.
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