WATCH: Gauteng MEC wishes gogo a happy 102nd birthday
'We are encouraging our communities always to take care of our golden girls and boys, as we affectionately refer to them' – MEC.
The Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Dr Nomathemba Mokgethi visited Sarah Wankras who celebrated her 102nd birthday on Saturday, 17 October in Toekomsrus.
MEC Mokgethi said the National Department of Social Development selected October to be Social Development Month in which elderly people are honoured.
“During the month of October we make a concerted effort to teach communities about the importance of our elderly people,” Mokgethi said.
She said her department was happy that Wankras’ 102nd birthday coincided with the programme – which gave them the opportunity to reach out.
We are encouraging our communities always to take care of our golden girls and boys, as we affectionately refer to them,” the MEC added.
Nosipho Mabena, MMC for Health and Social Development at the Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) said, “As Rand West City, we are blessed to have a group of people who have reached the age of 100. We are most proud that the family of Wankras has taken good care of her; unlike what we see in some homes when we do door to door campaigns.
“People also need to know that government is meeting them halfway by providing services that they need to care for senior citizens; but they also need to keep their end of the bargain by caring for them,” Mapena said.
While handing over a blanket, umbrella and cosmetic bag as some of the many gifts, MEC said, “I’m pleased that we are all here to celebrate your birthday. Happy birthday, Gogo!” MEC said.
