THE government has promised to take care of the elderly, describing them as fountains of wisdom, culture and historical knowledge.
The commitment was made by Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Judith Ncube, in a speech read on her behalf during a community gathering in Nketa on Saturday to honour the wisdom of elders.
The event also saw the unveiling of a landmark medical village project.
Spearheaded by the Children of Africa Development International Initiative (COADII), the programme seamlessly blended cultural celebration with development, showing profound respect for elders while also strengthening the community’s commitment to healthcare.
Ncube said elders were the backbone of communities, living libraries of culture and history, adding that without their wisdom and sacrifices, the nation would not be where it is.
“We are grateful and we are proud of you. Elders remain central to Zimbabwe’s heritage and future and we remind the audience that in today’s fast-changing world, it is vital to pause and recognise the wisdom passed down through generations,” she said.
“The government is committed to ensuring elders live with dignity, respect and love through strengthened health and social support systems.”
Nketa ward 25 councillor Alack Ndlovu described the event as a pivotal moment in on-going efforts to enhance service delivery for the welfare of the community.
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“The medical village will host both scientific and traditional medical research units, reflecting a holistic approach to tackling diseases,” he said, while calling on residents to embrace unity and co-operation in safeguarding public infrastructure.
A resident, George Mhlanga, welcomed the initiative, noting that the new facility will ease the burden of travel costs, as many patients previously spent a lot of money commuting to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
“The hospital will be nearby and this is a good thing because COADII is bringing services closer to the people,” he said.
An elderly, only identified as Dube, said the project should empower local youth, stressing that construction work must not be outsourced.
“We expect our youths to do the job, especially since many young people are unemployed,” he said.
Representing COADII, system supervisor and treasurer Duduzile Sibanda said the organisation valued elders as a sign of respect.
He said the land clearance and rehabilitation programme would create opportunities for young people while fostering sustainability.
“The project aims not only to deliver healthcare but also to uplift youth through skills development and employment,” Sibanda said.
The event became both a cultural celebration and a development milestone, reminding the community that honouring elders while building modern health systems lays the foundation for a stronger, healthier and more inclusive future.
