08 Jul 2026

More than 300 blankets were distributed to elderly residents aged 65 years and above in Old Naledi on July 7 as Member of Parliament for Gaborone South and Minister of Justice and Correctional Services,  Mr Nelson Ramaotwana, launched a winter outreach initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable residents from the cold.

‎Speaking during the blanket donation ceremony at Naledi Central Kgotla, Ramaotwana said the initiative was introduced to help shield elderly residents from the harsh winter conditions, noting that older people are more susceptible to cold weather because their immune systems weaken with age.

‎"We decided to start with residents aged 65 years and above because they are the most vulnerable. Our hope is to lower the qualifying age to 60 years next year so that more elderly people can benefit," he said.

‎Mr Ramaotwana said the programme would be rolled out across all sections of Old Naledi, including Naledi Central, Naledi North and Naledi South, to ensure all eligible elderly residents receive blankets.

‎He assured residents who were unable to attend the ceremony that they would also receive blankets, adding that he would personally deliver them to ensure no one was left out.

‎Mr Ramaotwana said his office was not only focused on the welfare of the elderly but was also developing programmes to empower young people.

‎He said plans were underway to bring together government departments and private sector representatives to educate youth about available opportunities and help address the challenges they face.

‎Kgosi Ishmael Edward of Naledi Central Kgotla welcomed the initiative, describing it as a meaningful gesture of support for the elderly.

‎"Even a small gift should not be despised”, he said.

‎Meanwhile, chairperson of the Old Naledi elderly group, Mmampula Bodutu, said beneficiaries were grateful for the blankets and thanked the minister for remembering them during the winter season.

‎The handover was met with songs and ululations from some of the elderly residents, who expressed their appreciation for the donation.

‎However, Bodutu said elderly residents continue to face significant financial challenges, particularly the high cost of water bills.

‎She explained that many pensioners spend a large portion of their monthly old-age pension on essential services, with some water bills reaching as much as P2,300.

‎Bodutu appealed for interventions to ease the financial burden on elderly residents, saying reducing the cost of essential services would greatly improve their quality of life. ENDS