Prime Minister invites seniors to lunch
Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila spoke on Sunday on behalf of President Nangolo Mbumba at the 20th anniversary of the annual Rehoboth Senior Citizens Lunch in the run-up to Christmas.Seniors from the surrounding Rehoboth farms were also present, according to the Christian Welfare Organisation (CWO) charity, bringing the guests to around 3 000 senior citizens. A 118-year-old pensioner was also there, as well as two other centenarians.
According to the Prime Minister, the government has introduced development measures that focus on optimising community prosperity by optimising economic growth. Kuugongelwa-Amadhila says this means creating jobs and expanding access to healthcare, housing, water and sanitation, and education.
“This also means ensuring that social safety nets are extended to all those in need. The seniors are our mentors who also impart values and thus preserve them for future generations," said the Prime Minister. "We should therefore respect and appreciate them and honour them on occasions such as today."
While the government is committed to improving social programmes, civil society and individuals should play their role by supporting vulnerable communities and pensioners. "The good example set by the CWO should be followed and I therefore urge other organisations and individuals to do similar," said the Prime Minister.
On Monday, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila kicked off the rollout of electronic vouchers in Groot Aub for needy households. These vouchers, in the form of a credit card, can be used to purchase basic food items in certain shops for a monthly amount set by the government.