Democratic Alliance (DA) councillors spent their Sunday morning with the elderly in Grahamstown to celebrate Mandela Day.
Democratic Alliance (DA) councillors spent their Sunday morning with the elderly in Grahamstown to celebrate Mandela Day.
DA Councillors Michael Whisson, Xolani Madyo and Lena May visited Makanaskop Old Age Home in Extension 4 and McKaiser’s Old Age Home in Currie Street with gifts of oranges, spending a moment to chat with the important seniors who are often so neglected by society.
Madyo spoke to the residents of Makanaskop Old Age Home and said it was important that this day is celebrated with them as it is the day that Nelson Mandela turns 92.
“We chose this day of Madiba’s birthday and this 67 minutes so that we can enjoy it with the elders of this community. Since we are the DA, we want to show you how important you are to us,” he said.
Makanaskop resident, Vuyiswa Habana appreciated this warm gesture from the councillors. “We are thankful that you came to see us, please do come again so that we can forget about the things that trouble us even for that small moment. God bless,” she said.
The residents at McKaiser’s Old Age Home showed their appreciation to the councillors by singing hymns. May spent some time speaking to the elderly one-on-one showing a genuine interest in them and reminding them of their value in our society.
McKaiser’s Old Age Home resident Joyce Ntulwana spoke to May and was well aware that Nelson Mandela was turning 92.
I’m truly happy about this day. He is a freedom fighter that took us out of the darkness and brought education to us,” she said.
Whisson said that the DA is strongly encouraged by its leader Helen Zille and Member of Parliament Annette Lovemore to go out and do something on this day.
“This is a day that is internationally celebrated and Mandela is for everybody,” Whisson said. The councillors also made a trip to Eluxolweni Shelter to surprise the children with pockets of oranges.
