The City of Johannesburg's Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) in Region F hosted a wellness event for senior citizens at the Hofland Recreation Centre in Bezuidenhout Valley on 21 May 2026 in celebration of International Tea Day.
Organised in partnership with the City's Social Development and Community Development departments, the event brought together about 150 elderly residents from retirement homes and private homes across Ward 66, including Bertrams, Bezuidenhout Valley and Kensington.
International Tea Day, observed globally on 21 May, celebrates the cultural, historical and economic significance of tea. This year's theme, “Fostering Growth and Inclusion", highlights the importance of empowering tea-growing communities, promoting inclusive economic growth and encouraging sustainable practices that benefit both people and the environment.
The day featured a range of wellness and recreational activities, including health screenings, podiatry and chiropractic services, massages, social support services, aerobics, dancing and live entertainment. The spirit of community support was evident throughout the event, with local businesses and stakeholders donating flowers, cakes, muffins, biscuits and other refreshments for the elderly guests.
Speaking at the event, Kokela Silimela, Deputy Director: Citizen Relationship Management in Region F, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders. “Tea plays a vital role in our communities. This beautiful occasion would not have been possible without the support of our generous partners, including the UJ Chiropractic Unit, UJ Podiatric Unit, UJ Law Clinic, local businesses, and the South African Police Service (SAPS), who all came together to provide valuable services and presentations to our senior citizens."
Community Police Forum member Elsie Dudu Maseko encouraged senior citizens to remain active and vigilant. “Take care of your health, spend time outdoors and stay active because sitting all the time can negatively affect your knees. Make friends, spend time with your grandchildren where possible, and avoid isolation as loneliness affects many elderly citizens," she said.
A representative from the Health Department at Bezuidenhout Valley Clinic urged senior citizens to remain consistent with their chronic medication and make use of available healthcare support services.
“Many of our elderly residents are on chronic medication, but some do not visit the clinic to collect their treatment, which is a major concern. The City has ward-based outreach teams that can assist by delivering medication to residents who are unable to visit the clinic," the representative explained.
Written by Dudu Lushaba
22/05/2026
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City of Johannesburg marks International Tea Day with senior citizens wellness event
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