08 Sep 2026

The elderly people deserve recognition and support as their efforts and energy were devoted in building a strong foundation for the current generation.

Speaking at an occasion where he donated blankets to senior citizens in Tatisiding at Highway Hope Centre recently, Member of Parliament for Tati East, Mr Thabologo Furniture, said the elders deserved care in recognition of what they had done in the past. 

Therefore, he encouraged and reminded young people to always remember elders, and devote a moment of their time for them as ageing was a path that everyone would eventually take.

“Whilst we are in the cities as young people, we should always remember our elders.Our elders are not given the desired care and love. In some developed countries like the UK, there are old age homes where elders have everything in place; doctors, nurses and all the services they need,” he added.

Mr Furniture said government was making an effort through the old age pension to recognise and appreciate elders, though it was not enough.

“The money can easily be exhausted on medication. It is time for government to think of other ways to support our elders,” he said.

Mr Furniture promised to continue supporting elders in Tatisiding.

Founder of Highway Hope Centre, Mr David Nfila, said the idea of establishing an elders centre was hatched in 2020. 

He explained that the aim of the centre was to gather elders of Tatisiding in one place, cook for them and engage them in handwork so that they remain active instead of staying alone at home while their children were at work.

However, Mr Nfila said the challenge was lack of space, noting that a bigger place was needed in order to offer more services to the elders.

He expressed gratitude to Mr Furniture for the donation, saying it would go a long way in assisting the elders.

Councillor for Tatisiding North, Ms Keitumetse Tlhalerwa, also applauded the MP for his gesture as well as Mr Nfila for his commitment to ensure that elders are taken care of. 

She emphasised the importance of elders in the society and the vital role they played in building the nation. 

Ms Tlhalerwa said young people drew wisdom and knowledge from elders, hence it was befitting for them to be taken care of and assisted with their needs. ENDS