RYF and partners celebrate Africa Day at Katutura Old Age Home
In true African spirit, the Rob Youth Foundation Namibia (RYF) joined hands with the International Peace Youth Group, International Women’s Peace Group, and Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) to visit the Katutura Old Age Home as part the Africa Day Commemoration.The team undertook various activities such as cleaning the bathrooms and toilets, washing dishes in the kitchen and cleaning the yard. The elders were pampered as the delegates performed manicures and pedicures much to the delight of their hosts.
Naomi Kamenye, Managing Director of RYF and a Miss Namibia 2024 finalist led the team, saying it was in the best interest of African youth to give back and start directing their efforts of taking care of their elders as it is their responsibility as the new generation to take care of their elders.
“It's important to celebrate Africa Day and just as important to celebrate the diversity of Africa while keeping our culture. By celebrating with our elderly, we give back to them to signify the spirit of Ubuntu - a critical component of Africa Day.
“The foundation pampered our elders and cleaned their homes. I’m super happy to be part of such a simple but considerable act of kindness on Africa Day,” she said.
Paheja Ndjoze, who spoke on behalf of the International Peace Youth Group and International Women’s Peace Group said celebrating Africa Day is a way of reuniting Africans together, “to create the atmosphere and the environment for love and peace. Visiting the old age home was a great initiative. The event created a loving atmosphere and I valued it. Even though people age, they still need love from the youth and we youngsters have a lot to learn from our elders. It was a memorable experience.”
Aloycius Hawangwa from HWPL believes it is important for Africans to celebrate Africa, remembering the history of where we are coming from and where we are headed. “It is important that we recognise our diverse cultures and as well as the great potential to develop the continent given the resources we have.”
Meme Sophia, who spoke on behalf of the elders said she was happy that the young people came to visit them and said it should not be a one-time visit. “Visit often, don’t just come once. I enjoyed the singing and dancing performances you did for us we appreciated it.”