06 Nov 2016

The contribution that the elders have had in the country’s development is invaluable.

Speaking at the event to refurbish Re fa ka bone Caring Centre by the French embassy in Ramotswa on Wednesday (November 2), Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ms Botlogile Tshireletso said the legacy of elders in the country is vivid and now that they are old and fragile, it is the turn for the younger members of the society to take care of them.

“I know very well that we can never repay what they did for us, but we can show appreciation by giving them care, respect and love, just to say thank you to them,” added Ms Tshireletso.

Therefore she said Re fa ka bone, which centre takes care of the elderly and those that are mentally challenged, should be an inspiration to all for its contribution in providing day care for its clients.

The centre provides meals for the clients, assists them with personal care including bathing, laundry, administration of medication, adhering to medical check ups schedules as well as provision of support and counselling for clients and their families. 

She said the centre’s task is a mammoth one as it requires selfless commitment and compassion.

Ms Tshireletso applauded the centre for helping government achieve its mandate of improving the lives of Batswana, especially in providing decent shelter as one of the basic need for the human race.

She also commended Oteng family for having offered their house freely to accommodate the centre.

The assistant minister also commended the French Embassy for renovating the house to the value of P18 633,  which renovations include fitting the ceiling, doors, fisher boards and painting both the interior and exterior walls of the house.

She said the embassy has contributed immensely to the economic and social development of the country.

For her part, French Ambassador, Mrs Anne De La Blache said France has common interests with Botswana, especially how they see things and stand up for their values.
 

She urged people to work hard for the development of the centre, as it brings love to the elderly, especially that the volunteers do not make profit.

She added that Re fa ka bone is evidence that Batswana do not forget their own.

The centre has about 87 beneficiaries, which number comprises of 20 elderly men, 28 elderly women as well as 20 men who are mentally challenged and 16 women of the same state. ENDS