​Last week Friday, 22 August 2025, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD), in partnership with the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, hosted the annual Regional Golden Games, an event aimed at promoting active aging among senior citizens.
Winnie Rammutla, Chief Physiotherapist from the Gauteng Department of Health and Wellness, encouraged participants to motivate other abogogo and omkhulu to join the games for their health benefits.

“Inspire other senior citizens to take part in these games,” said Rammutla. “They promote a healthy lifestyle. If you know someone who cannot get to a healthcare facility, notify your nearest clinic, we also offer home visits for Primary Health Care.”

Gugulethu Dlamini from the Office of the Premier emphasized the government's support for active aging initiatives. Dlamini emphasized that Premier’s Office fully supports these activities, as they show that active living has no age limit. The Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation plays a key role by providing technical expertise in sports officiating.

Dlamini also noted that the Department of Health and Wellness ensures all participants are medically screened before competing. “These games help delay the onset of chronic illnesses and reduce reliance on chronic medication,” she added.

She further highlighted that the event also serves as a platform to select older persons who will represent the Northern Corridor in the upcoming Provincial Games scheduled for September.

Senior citizens from across the Northern Corridor enthusiastically participated in various sporting events, including the Duck Walk, Dress-Up Race, Ball Throw, Ring the Stick, Ball Pass, Goal Shoot, and athletics.