By Kae Matundu-Tjiparuro
OKAUNDJA
The traditional site of the Protestant Unity Church, otherwise known as the Oruuano Church, was a hive of activity on Saturday as close to 200 elderly villagers converged there for an early Christmas party.
It is the third year running that senior villagers from this village and surrounding villages in the Okakarara Constituency have an early Christmas party – an initiative of young and able-bodied local villagers and those eking out a living in urban areas.
From humble beginnings three years ago, the event has grown from strength to strength and is now the pride of local villagers.
Pensioners especially, are made to feel they are not forgotten and their efforts in rearing children into responsible adults were not in vain. Beneficiaries also include people living with disabilities.
Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC), Old Mutual, Shell Namibia, Namib Mills, Deep Catch Trading, First National Bank (FNB) and Nedbank, were happy to get on board this goodwill train.
These companies gave financial and material help and ensured it reached its destination, making the elderly villagers very happy.
Young villagers from Okaundja, Okuapa and Okaepe first suggested the idea of a Christmas party after realising the desolation and isolation felt by some of the elderly during the festive season.
During this time of plenty, many pensioners find themselves alone without the resources to provide some Christmas cheer.
The idea therefore, was to fill this void with gifts, accompanied by a meal.
Each of the 200 senior citizens on Saturday received a dish with a lid, a bucket with a lid, a cup and a spoon courtesy of the NDTC to the total value of about N$12ǟ