The Sunday News
Mthabisi Tshuma, Sunday News Reporter
NEWLY appointed Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Cde Patrick Zhuwao has tasked the national board of the older person to formulate strategies for the Government to follow as a work plan aimed at improving the lives of the aged.
Speaking at the National Commemorations of the Older Person’s Day held at Gwanda Old People’s Home on Thursday, Cde Zhuwao said the board should submit the strategies before the year ends.
“To the board, I would like you formulate strategies for the Government to use as a work plan. Before the end of the year, bring the position paper so we can forward it to his Excellency, President Mugabe,” said Cde Zhuwao.
The commemorations were held under the theme, “Tapping the talents, contributions and participation of older persons in society.” He urged the board to work hard other than priding itself in holding commemorations yearly without any fruitful outcomes that ensure protection of old people.
“Every year let’s sit down and see how we have helped the old people other than having to celebrate this day yearly without any recognised successes towards the livelihoods of the old. All the old age people should be proud of themselves as among them is a well known figure, his Excellency President
Mugabe who facilitated not just the independence of this country but of Africa as a whole. His work before and after independence is there for all to see and this is because during his youth he attentively listened to every advice he got from the elderly,” said Cde Zhuwao.
He thanked his Excellency for working with the youths and now with the elderly and also for the wisdom and knowledge he continues to impart to the citizens of Zimbabwe.
Old People’s Board Chairperson Mr Edwin Murirwa said old people should be respected. He said they continued to mould the youths into respectable individuals.
“Old people have the pride of wanting to do things themselves, its fine let it be. That is what makes them so unique and let’s not undermine them. Over 50 percent of those in Parliament fall under the age group of old persons and the traction of taking care of older person’s needs should be upholded,” said Mr Murirwa. — @mthabisitshuma1
