24 Jun 2018

United States Ambassador Mr Earl Miller led a sponsored walk to raise funds for Phala E Senang Phalana, a centre which cares for the elderly.

The Mogobane- based elderly care centre is currently raising funds towards completion of a building which is at window level.

Speaking at the occasion on June 22, Ambassador Miller who was the chief walker said the centre was a wonderful place of care for the elderly hence walking was for a noble cause.

He said the sponsored walk gave the US an opportunity to offer support and cooperate with Botswana towards improving the lives of elderly people.

He said after raising their children, the expectation from parents was for the children to take care of them saying should this not be the case Phala E Senang Phalana closed that gap.

Ambassador Miller, therefore, said the project was for a good purpose and his wish to find it complete next time he visits.
 

Phala E Senang Phalana director, Ms Tsholofelo Letshoo said the centre was officially registered in 2013 to provide care and support for the elders.

Ms Letshoo said the centre was faced with financial challenges in completing its housing projects but noted that despite their financial limitations, they were committed to serving the elderly in the community.

The housing project which is currently at window level has been constructed through goodwill gestures.

Ms Letshoo was therefore hopeful that with the help of the community, they would eventually be able to complete the project.

“We did not expect this turn-up, it means the walk is a success,” she said.

Earlier, the Village chief representative, Kgosi Nobi Moilwa said Phala E Senang Phalana would not only cater for the elders in Mogobane but even those from nearby villages such as Ntlhantlhe and Otse.

Hence Kgosi Nobi said the project would only be successful if the community worked together.

However he said upon completion, Phala E Senang Phalana would need transport to ferry passengers to and from the old age home hence the need for assistance.

The South-East District Council chairperson Mr Phenyo Segokgo said the centre was a good project for the elders as it would improve their well-being.

He appealed for support for the centre saying Phala E Senang Phalana could not manage to do it alone. Ends