Senior citizens addressed about IDP meeting issues
Among the main concerns raised by the elderly were undocumented foreign nationals intimidating and robbing them of their belongings.
The Speaker of he Johannesburg Council, Vasco da Gama, engaged with senior citizens on 15 May in Yeoville on issues affecting them, as many were not present at the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) meetings.
Among the main concerns raised by the elderly were undocumented foreign nationals intimidating and robbing them of their belongings. There were many cases of property hijackings, which resulted in some old people being homeless. The demand for accommodation and provision of RDP houses for the elderly cannot be over-emphasised, as most of them have been tenants for many years.
The mushrooming of illegal churches and taverns causing noise pollution in the area is also problematic. This impacts the elderly drastically, and has a negative impact on their well-being.
The drug problem continues to be a problem in Yeoville, with the elderly people complaining that the drug lords are working with the police, therefore they do not get arrested. They are concerned that assistance from the police is not sufficient. Representatives from the police responded by saying they have a joint operation with security companies and the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) and assured the elders that they are not working with criminals.
Da Gama pleaded with the police to enhance their efforts and visibility in the area to protect the senior citizens, as he was concerned that not enough was being done to remedy the situation. Superintendent Machete from the JPMD elaborated on the current crime prevention measures in Yeoville, saying he is aware of the crime issues and that they are dealing with them through the Buya Mthetho programme.
He urged residents to report any leads to the JMPD call centre on 011 375 5911, or to send a WhatsApp to 082 779 1361.
Da Gama also urged a Home Affairs official who was present to arrange an outreach to Yeoville to address the undocumented foreign nationals issue, as it was one of the burning issues raised by the old people.
Busisiwe Nkosi from Social Development Department at City of Johannesburg explained the process to be followed to get assistance from her department. She provided practical steps and said they will prioritise the elderly in social relief programmes. The City has a programme specifically for the elderly which includes social workers assisting with nutrition programmes, referral to affordable retirement homes and counselling.
