Housing almost 85 elderly people under one care is a blessing which Deborah Mbale, the Founder of Mai Mbambande has been imparted with on the basis of providing shelter, clothing and food to deprived elderly persons.
Writing on the Facebook page for the foundation, Mbale expressed satisfaction with the progress which Malawians and well-wishers are providing towards the initiative of Mai Mbambande.
She highlighted the foundations commitment in safe guarding the rights of the elderly.
“Here we share tasks and make a beautiful family. Currently, we have harvested fresh farm produce from our gardens, we are selling tomatoes, onions and potatoes from the elderly home. Come and support our business as we are fundraising for the completion of the eldery home.” Reads part of the Facebook Post on Mai Mbambande page.
Mai Mbambande initiative has boosted after renting the land for planting various crops, finally the organisation has managed to procure some land whilst hoping that the move will increase maximum production for the well being of the elderly.
While Mai Mbambande is offering such permanent services to the eldery, the country has of late faced various outrages and abuses imposed on the eldery by being among others relating to myths of witchcraft practices.
This situation has ignited the Malawi Network of Older Persons Organization (MANEPO) to advocate for the passing of the eldery bill in parliament.
After the passing of bill in the just ended parliament sitting, MANEPO Country Director Andrew Kavala said there is need to build a society that cherishes and takes care of the lives for the elderly in the country.
“The bill will help to address and safeguard the rights of the eldery who have for a long time being abused in their own country and subjected to torture, let alone killings. The passing of the bill is a landmark towards minimizing such rights of our grandparents who deserve a better life as anyone else.” Said Kavala.
According to the 2018 census by the National Statistics Office (NSO), the elderly makes up to 5% of the country’s population.
