08 Aug 2018

Despite his age, Mr Nthoiwa Khisimosi, 61, is one of those elders who is still going strong and fending for himself through the profits he generates from selling old scraps of metals.

Mr Khisimosi, who hails from Mapoka in the North East District, said everyday when the sun rises, he has a task to embark on and never comes back empty handed.

Speaking in an interview, he noted that his daily routine started with him taking his wheelbarrow and going around collecting old scraps of metals from the neighbourhood.

He said he stock-piled the pieces at his backyard and later sorted them accordingly and selling them at authorised scrapyard dealers.

Mr Khisimosi said he ventured into the business because he never wanted to use his old age status as an excuse to be a burden on his family.

He also noted that old age ailments continued to be a challenge for many due to the fact that they spent most of their time sitting in one place without any movement.

He said through this daily activity, he has found a way to be physically active and in a position to ward off ailments.

“I have been in this business of selling old pieces of metals for eight years now. It is very handy for me as it brings monetary benefits. It is one way I look up to for keeping me busy, and also take it as a way of exercising as I move around from one place to another,” he said.

Mr Khisimosi is not moved by negative comments leveled at him by some people from his neighbourhood about his activity, saying some think he is into selling scraps because his family has failed him.

He maintained that his intention was to make money and able to supplement his other monetary sources so as to be able to pay his bills and attend to other matters.

He understands the need to dress well, adding that during summer, he always puts on his bucket hat and carries a bottle of water.

He also goes out early in the morning so as to be back before the heat intensifies, while in winter he keeps warm through his coats, gloves and a hat.

Mr Khisimosi further noted that the business was ideal as it also touched on environmental health awareness.

He also shared that his business gave out quick cash,  and that it had lured some unemployed youth to engage in the same to stop idling.

“Some of the youth have shown interest in this business, especially that once you deliver these metals at scrap yards, they are weighed and you will be paid right away,” he said.

He noted that each metal carried a different price, and that one always felt eager to search for metals that would bring better value.

Mr Khisimosi said although it was one way to make money, some people had a tendency of destroying and vandalising property so as to steal some of the valuable metals. ENDS