Government has called on society to embrace elderly people for their invaluable contributions to the development of the nation.
Community Development and Social Services Deputy Minister, Friday Malwa made the call when he officiated at the cleaning of the Matero After Care Centre for older persons in Lusaka today.
Mr. Malwa said the older persons should be valued for their great contribution through their various roles they play in the nation.
He however expressed sadness at the way the community treats older persons by disrespecting and ill treating them besides other forms of abuse.
He has since urged the community not to neglect the older persons in society adding that they are a reservoir of wisdom, rich culture and traditional heritage.
At the same occasion NAPSA made a donation to the center.
Speaking when he presented the donation, National Pensions Scheme Authority (NAPSA) Acting Director for Contributions and Benefits, Ronnie Kamanya said the donation was part of the company’s corporate social responsibility to the community.
Mr Kamanya said the company being a social protection organization will continue partnering with government to ease problems that the older persons encounter due to their age.
Zambia will join the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of the Older Persons which falls on October 1st under the theme” Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the International Year of Older persons; Towards the society of all ages”.
Government has since lined up a number of activities aimed at creating awareness on the plight and rights of the older persons in the country.
ZANIS
No killing them, suspecting them of be witches. This time and age, very sad.