Malawians have been urged to show greater care and respect for the elderly, who continue to face loneliness, neglect and other challenges despite their contribution to society.
The call has come from Zomba-based musician James Kajawo of One For All Technical Organization, who says the elderly should not be forgotten simply because they are no longer able to contribute as they once did.
Kajawo said society has a responsibility to stand with older people and ensure they live with dignity.
“The elderly are part of our society and they have played their role in building our communities. We should not forget them when they grow old. This is the time they need our love, care and support the most,” Kajawo said.
He said caring for the elderly should not be left to families alone, but should be embraced as a responsibility for the wider community.
“Sometimes we remember the elderly only when we need their wisdom, but when they need us, we forget them. We need to change this mindset and make sure that our elderly feel loved, valued and cared for,” he said.
Kajawo said neglecting older people denies them the dignity they deserve after spending much of their lives supporting their families and communities.
Meanwhile, Kajawo has expressed commitment to supporting the elderly through his organization.
He said he plans to host elderly people in Zomba on Mother’s Day as part of efforts to appreciate them and spend time with them.
“We want to give them a day where they can feel special, eat together and know that there are people who still care about them. This is not just about giving them food, but showing them love and reminding them that they have not been forgotten,” Kajawo said.
Last year, Kajawo hosted more than 100 elderly people, providing them with meals and other items as part of his efforts to support vulnerable older people.
He also reached out to other elderly people in surrounding communities, extending his support beyond the gathering.
Kajawo recently announced plans to start a multimillion-kwacha project to construct a clinic in Zomba that will provide free health services to elderly people.
The project, he said, is aimed at easing the burden faced by older people who struggle to access healthcare because of financial challenges.
