By Sibusiso Khanye
In a heart-warming display of community spirit, the Ubuntu Movement, a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving lives across Ekurhuleni, played host to 50 local senior citizens for a special luncheon on Friday. The event, held on the 13th of February 2026, was a token of appreciation for the grandmothers and grandfathers who are the bedrock of society.
The gathering, which took place at a venue in Daveyton, was more than just a meal. It was a day filled with warmth, camaraderie, and generous giveaways, thanks to a partnership with the Daveyton Mall, Nkuna’s Tavern, and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
Thabo Nxumalo, the founder and director of the Ubuntu Movement, beamed with pride as he watched the elders enjoy their afternoon. For Nxumalo, who has dedicated his life to creating better living conditions for South Africans, the event was a personal mission to say thank you.
“We often focus on the needs of the young, but our elders are the ones who paved the way for us. They hold our history and our values,” said Nxumalo. “Hosting them for lunch and seeing their smiles is a small gesture for the immense contribution they have made to our society.”
The Ubuntu Movement relies solely on the generosity of donors to carry out its work in the region. While Nxumalo’s vision is vast, his organisation operates on a wing and a prayer, constantly seeking support to help both the young and the old. For this event, he knocked on the doors of the IEC, asking them to help put a smile on the elders’ faces. The IEC answered the call wholeheartedly. Not only did they come on board to assist with the event, but they also took the opportunity to educate the attendees on their civic duties. Maredi Phala, the Regional Officer for the IEC under the Benoni-based outreach program, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the critical role of the commission in a democratic South Africa. “We try by all means to teach all South Africans about the IEC,” said Phala. “Our presence here today is to connect with the community on a personal level and reinforce the importance of participation in our democracy.”
Phala took the elders through the basics of the electoral process, explaining how to vote, why their vote matters, and the power it holds. He stressed the importance of understanding the framework that protects voters’ rights, specifically highlighting Chapter 9 institutions.
“These are institutions established under the constitution to support and safeguard our democracy,” he explained to the attentive audience. “Chapter 9 of our constitution elaborates on the rights of voters and the responsibilities that come with that vote. It is the foundation that ensures our electoral process is free and fair. Knowing who the IEC is, and what we stand for, is the first step in exercising your power as a citizen.”
The message resonated with community leaders present, including Mr. Nkuna, the Chairperson of the Bloma Nathi Informal Settlement. He took a moment to express his deep gratitude to the Ubuntu Movement for their initiative. “We cannot do it alone, but we will do it if we are united,” said Mr. Nkuna. “As a stakeholder, I am proud to say we need to focus more on our elders as they are the ones who know our roots. An initiative like this reminds us of where we come from.” The most poignant moment of the day came when one of the grandmothers, her eyes shining with appreciation, asked to say a few words. She stood up to thank the Ubuntu Movement, the Daveyton Mall, Nkuna’s Tavern, and the IEC for their collective efforts. “You have remembered that we are still here. You have remembered that we are also important in this society,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. Her words drew loud applause from the other elders, encapsulating the spirit of the day.
As the event drew to a close, Nxumalo made a heartfelt plea to businesses in Daveyton and the surrounding areas of Ekurhuleni.
“We cannot do this alone. The need in our communities is great,” he appealed. “I urge businesses to come to the table and assist the Ubuntu Movement with any kind of donations. Whether it is to help the elderly, who often feel forgotten, or to support the young ones who represent our future, every contribution makes a world of difference. Help us help them.” For the 50 elders who left with full stomachs, beautiful gifts, and a renewed sense of their own importance, it was a day that proved they are far from forgotten.
