DELMAS – In celebration of Mandela Day, Mbuyelo Manungu Colliery hosted a special event for approximately 120 elderly residents from Delmas and surrounding farming communities.
The event, held at SK Lifestyle on 17 July 2026, was organised in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Health and the Department of Social Development.
The celebration brought together elderly beneficiaries from Ludvodvolo lwe Africa, Botleng Society for the Aged, Sizimele, Delpark and several wards across the Victor Khanye Local Municipality. The programme offered a day of entertainment, healthcare, social interaction and essential support for senior citizens.
Activities included health screenings, aerobics, active ageing programmes, games, and the distribution of food parcels and blankets. Beneficiaries were also treated to soup on arrival, breakfast, lunch, cupcakes and cake.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, members of the Botleng Society for the Aged entertained guests with lively song and dance performances, highlighting the importance of active ageing and community participation.
Speaking to Highveld Chronicle, Mbuyelo Manungu Colliery General Manager Humphrey Mokwena said Mandela Day is about honouring Nelson Mandela's legacy through meaningful service.
"Nelson Mandela sacrificed almost his entire life so that others could enjoy a better life. As a company, we believe those of us who have the means should continue his legacy by giving back and looking after our communities," said Mokwena.
He said that while last year's Mandela Day programme focused on children, the company decided to dedicate this year's celebration to older persons.
"Looking after the elderly is like nurturing the roots of a tree. They are the pillars of our communities, and it is our responsibility to care for them."
Mokwena said Mbuyelo worked with surrounding farms, old-age homes and community organisations to identify beneficiaries.
"We have about 120 elderly people here today. The number is not important to us. What matters is that every one of them enjoys the day. They are receiving health checks, meals, recreational activities, groceries and blankets before returning home."
He added that the Mandela Day initiative forms part of the company's broader corporate social investment programme, which includes partnerships with the Departments of Health, Social Development and Education to improve the lives of communities around its operations.
Department of Social Development Social Work Supervisor Sindiswa Mabena said the department promotes community-based care through registered service centres that enable older persons to remain active while living in their communities.
"What you are seeing today is what we call active ageing. Beyond providing food, older persons need opportunities to exercise, socialise and participate in sports, arts and cultural activities to remain active and healthy," she said.
Mabena explained that the department also works closely with companies such as Mbuyelo to identify legitimate non-profit organisations and deserving beneficiaries.
"Mbuyelo consults us to identify compliant organisations and beneficiaries. Last year they partnered with us to identify people who needed wheelchairs. Their commitment to supporting our communities continues to make a positive impact."
Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for the company's continued support.
Tilly Simelani from Ludvodvolo lwe Africa praised Mbuyelo for its ongoing assistance to vulnerable groups.
"Mbuyelo has always supported us. They visit the elderly, crèches and communities with groceries, clothes and gifts. We pray they continue helping people and remain in the Delmas area for many years because they make a real difference."
Thandi Mkhwanazi, representing elderly residents from Ward 5 Extension 4, said the event brought joy and hope to many senior citizens.
"This is our first time attending an event like this, and it has brought us so much happiness. We forgot about our worries and enjoyed spending time together. We hope Mbuyelo never grows tired of caring for the elderly because one day we will all reach old age. We are sincerely grateful."
Victor Khanye Local Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Vusi Buda also attended the event and welcomed the donation, expressing appreciation for Mbuyelo Manungu Colliery's contribution to the community.
The event concluded with the distribution of groceries and blankets, leaving beneficiaries with both practical support and cherished memories.
