The Free State MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environmental Affairs (DARDEA), Elzabe Rockman, recently visited two Luncheon Clubs in the Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipality within the Thabo Mofutsanyana District. These visits aimed to engage with the elderly members of the clubs and identify their needs, providing much-needed support.
The first visit took place at the Phukalla Luncheon Club in Kestel, which was established in 2021 by founder Ms. Jwalane Luncky Tshabangu. Accompanying MEC Rockman were candidate councillors Mr. Lehapa Motsoeneng and Mr. S’fiso Sibaya.
Following this, MEC Rockman concluded her visits at the YOFCA Luncheon Club at Metsi Matsho in Qwaqwa. There, she was warmly welcomed by Me. Hlekwazi Kumalo, the matron of YOFCA, who shared insights about the club’s history and its commitment to serving the elderly since 2007 by providing warm meals daily.
As part of a collaborative effort with stakeholders like MTN and the Red Cross, both luncheon clubs received essential items including food parcels, vegetables donated by local farmers, and groceries for their members.
Additionally, two elderly members, Anna Makobo from Phukalla and Emily Mabizela from YOFCA—each won brand new cellphones during a raffle competition.
During her visit, MEC Rockman emphasized the significance of creating a society that values, respects, and protects its elderly citizens. She stressed the importance of support and love for the elderly.
“Aging with dignity means more than respect. It means being able to feed yourself with pride. That is why food security must be at the heart of how we care for our elders.”
MEC Rockman acknowledged the valuable roles elders play as farmers, mentors, and guardians of knowledge, while also highlighting the need to support the youth in farming and food production to combat hunger.
In closing, the matrons of both luncheon clubs expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, noting that the kindness shown not only provided tangible benefits but also reminded them of the importance of compassion in their community.
“Your willingness to go above and beyond to help us during this difficult situation means more to us than words can express,” said the matrons.
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