Sisonke – ‘we are together’

Following on the passing of the Older Persons Amendment Act on 3 November 2025, Tafta has officially launched “Sisonke – We Are Together” – our 2026 campaign designed to raise awareness, strengthen engagement, and mobilise support for older persons across South Africa.

Rooted in Ubuntu, Sisonke emphasises that ageing is a journey we all take – and that dignity, care, and connection for older people is a shared responsibility.

Among the key changes in the new Act are:

• new definitions for assisted and independent living facilities
• clarified caregiver roles
• recognition of family care
• the creation of an inter-departmental structure to coordinate services across government.

It also enables urgent protective interventions without court orders, strengthens compliance measures, and promotes holistic, equitable care.

Everyone’s journey

“Ageing is everyone’s journey, and no older person should ever feel forgotten or unsupported,” said Femada Shamam, CEO of Tafta.

“The recent amendments provide stronger protections and improved access to care. Sisonke builds on this momentum by mobilising communities, partners, and supporters to act together, showing up in small, meaningful ways to ensure every older person can live with dignity.

Building age-friendly communities

“The campaign also reminds us that we will all grow older one day – and highlights the importance of building age-friendly communities today, while preparing for an age-ready society tomorrow. Through Sisonke, we encourage both compassion in action and responsibility in motion, together with all care partners.”

Sisonke will guide Tafta’s awareness, fundraising, and engagement activities throughout 2026, highlighting the contributions of elders, youth, families, partners, donors, and government in creating a society where care is shared and sustained.

Participate in events and programmes

We invite individuals, communities, and organisations to join the movement. You can participate in events, share stories, and support programmes that strengthen the wellbeing of older persons nationwide.

For more information on Sisonke and to join the movement, follow us on social media. See how you can respond to calls for action that make a real difference in the lives of older persons.