11 Dec 2023

Moderate aerobic exercise such as walking is important for the elderly as it helps promote overall health and offset some risks for chronic illnesses and diseases.

As such, Member of Parliament (MP) for Mogoditshane Tumiso Rakgare has encouraged elders in his constituency to exercise to enjoy the benefits that come with it.

Speaking during a wellness day activity in Mogoditshane at Nkoyaphiri public gym on Saturday, he said the objective of the day was to honour the elders in his constituency and implore them to keep a healthy lifestyle.

Rakgare, who is also the Minister of Youth, Sport, Gender and Culture said through the wellness activity, they also want to recognize and honour especially their unconditional love, including their contribution to the development of the constituency.

He added that in most cases, attention had always been directed to the youth over the elderly, adding that the event was an opportunity for them to be tested, examined and given proper care by the doctors who have come to assist them free of charge.

Rakgare added that the Eye Light Clinic will carry out an eye test for the elders and 200 of them would be given free eye glasses done at no cost.

He applauded all the organizations among them the Eye Clinic and Diagnofirm for coming on board.

The MP said public-private partnerships remained paramount as the private sector has a role to play in the community.

Rakgare said the outdoor gym was donated by Huawei Botswana and BOFINET and  have promised to extend the gym to accommodate residents who come in large numbers to exercise.

He promised that the event would be held annually in collaboration with the Tumiso Rakgare Foundation and would cater for all residents of Mogoditshane constituency.

Victoria Dube appreciated the services given on the day, adding that old age has taken a toll, hence the need for them to receive regular care.

The 67-year-old said they have worked tirelessly to make Botswana what it is today.

Pauline Moshapa commended the Rakgare for reaching out to them.

In his welcome remarks, Kgosi Keabetswe Dihutso said he was happy to see elders gathered together for the common purpose of keeping healthy.

He said exercising was critical and gave a testimony that he runs two kilometres every day, adding that it has helped him to keep fit and strong even at his age.
In his vote of thanks, Kgosi Manyane Mokgalagadi emphasized the importance of respecting and honouring the elderly.

He expressed worry over the generation of today, especially the youth who steal from the elders without shame and cautioned them against such deeds. ENDS