ELDERLY TO RECEIVE POLICIES IN RESPONSE TO THEIR CHALLENGES

The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development is aimed to developing policies for the elderly which will help resolve and deal with the challenges they are facing.

The ministry’s deputy permanent secretary, Ms Tebogo Bagopi, mentioned during the International Day of Elderly in Jwaneng that these policies and regulations were to recognize the contributions made by the elderly in the community.

“It is vital for government to develop laws, policies and programmes that secure the wellbeing and restore the dignity of all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly,” she said.

Kgosi Oageng Mosole of Jwaneng’s Raphalane Ward said that it’s a good thing that the government also recognises their value in society, hence a decision to celebrate them annually.

Elders often complain about lack of social facilities for them where they can mingle and relieve stress, so it is important that such should be considered for them.

He further said that the fact that Batswana had not yet embraced foster homes was indicative of strong households and that they preferred to care for their elders themselves.