First Lady Monica Chakwera has urged people in the country to support the elderly by taking full responsibility of their daily basic needs.
She made the call on Tuesday at Chikoko Bay State Lodge in Mangochi when she hosted a luncheon for 120 elderly women around Chikoko Bay and other areas in the district.
The First Lady said the elderly are important in society, hence, the need to support and give them respect that can ensure their rights and dignity.
She said: “This Christmas period brings us together. As such, I thought I should celebrate with you the senior citizens since I am part and parcel of you.”
Chakwera said it is important to come together and chat with the elderly who keep important information that can shape the country, including good values and culture.
“These older people are granaries of information. We need to take time to be with them and learn good morals from them,” she emphasized.
To this end, the First Lady called upon the younger generation to adore the elderly and not despise them or accuse them of practising witchcraft, warning it is against the law.
In her remarks, Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza challenged people to change their mindset towards the elderly.
“It’s high time we changed our negative perceptions towards the elderly. Support and accord them with all the respect they deserve,” she advised.
On her part, special adviser to the President on Women and Child Development Dorothy Chirambo commended the First Lady for inviting elderly women to a luncheon, saying the gesture was a Christmas gift to them.
“We really thank you for bringing the elderly together. This shows that you have the welfare of every citizen at heart,” she said.
