By More Matshediso
Pretoria – The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) today spread some tender, loving care to an elderly centre in Hammanskraal, on Mandela Day.
The GCIS together with Bogani Rainbow Makers donated 60 blankets, a washing machine, a computer, a 3G card and toiletries to the Tender Loving Care (TLC) old age home.
Ellen Masango, who is admitted at TLC old age home, told SAnews her heart was joyful for the gifts.
“If I could, I would dance… I feel so much happiness inside. We appreciate the visit from all these people and government,” said the 80-year-old, who has only been living at the centre for two months.
Masango said she enjoyed her stay at the centre. “I am well taken care of here… I am happy,” she added.
GCIS acting CEO Phumla Williams, accompanied by her staff members, dedicated their 67 minutes cleaning the facility, painting and feeding the elderly.
Williams commended TLC old age home manager, Mokubyane Johanna, for establishing a home for the elderly.
“We thank you and everyone who works here for taking care of our senior citizens. With these donations, government wishes to contribute to the good work you are doing,” Williams told SAnews.
She encouraged everyone to contribute as much as they could in the development of their communities.
Johanna expressed her gratitude for the work done on the day and the donations.
“I don’t know what to say. I thank God for these angels. I thank the sponsors and support from everyone who works here and our board members,” Johanna told SAnews.
Johanna started the centre at her own home in Hammanskraal about ten years ago.
“I had about 26 elders then. In 2006 I had to move them out of my home after registering, we then came to stay here… it was a big shack,” said Johanna.
She said in 2011, she got sponsors from churches and private sector to build a decent home for the elders.
The centre now has a proper building with a kitchen, bathrooms, dining hall and sleeping areas for males and females.
“We have 45 beds in total. We need more because we have 56 elders accommodated here.
“It is a bit worrying to think that we have more elders on a waiting list but we can’t admit them because we still need donations to build more rooms,” said Johanna.
The Namibian Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) also supported GCIS and other stakeholders who dedicated their time to cleaning the centre.
ICT Chief Information Officer, Wilson Shikoto, said it was heart-warming to see the nation unite for a good course.
“People should really do it every day… it doesn’t have to be for the elders only. Changing someone’s live should begin by making a difference in the lives of those around you,” Shikoto told SAnews.
Today’s programme was in line with the National Imbizo Focus Week that ensures constant engagements between the national executive and communities.
It is one of government’s communication platforms that deepen citizen involvement in all aspects of public life.
The Imbizo Focus Week also coincides with the commemoration of the Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July.
President Zuma, in his State of the Nation Address, called on citizens to devote 67 minutes of their time to assist to clean South Africa.
“Let us begin planning for a major clean-up of our cities, towns, townships, villages, schools and beautify every part of our country,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
