Run by the Salvation Army, the centre is still a centre of excellence despite surviving on dwindling donations. Home to old, sick and destitute citizens, whose social protection nets have been eroded by the harsh economic environment of the past 13 years and more, the home is situated in Chitungwiza’s Manyame Park and currently houses more than 40 old people. The adjoining hospital was built in 1980.
The centre’s administrator, Major Angeline Kapere, said the centre had its own doctor and health personnel who take care of the health needs of the elderly on a daily basis.
She said that because the home was situated within the community, the elderly felt at the home because of continued interaction with the local community.
“Being in the community is also an added advantage because locals play a big role in the administration of this centre. We get a lot of support from the community, both financial and in terms of human resources, for which we are very grateful. People come and spend time with the old people. They are aware that taking care of the elderly is everyone’s responsibility,” said Kapere.
The home, which has more than four blocks, also runs a vibrant chicken project. The centre’s Projects Manager, Captain Emmanuel Moyo, heads the income-generating initiatives.
The project has close to 200 chickens and a vegetable garden, which not only provides vegetables for residents, but also helps them engage in physical activity.
“The elderly did not just wake up old – and they need something worthwhile to do. They help out watering the garden, feeding the chickens and cleaning the fowl run. Since we have quite a number who are are destitute, they need to occupy themselves by doing something and the projects fill in that gap,” she said.
Kapere dismissed the assertion that the centre only shelters people who are over 60 and said: “We can take in someone who is below that age.” Anyone who goes through the vetting process at the department of Social Welfare and qualifies to be housed at the centre is accommodated.
“We do accept people who are below the age of 60, whose health status makes it difficult for them to live outside a hospital setting are accommodated,” she said.
Thomas Kadzeya, one of the old people residing at the centre, who does not remember his age, said: “Thank God for this centre. I had nowhere to sleep and no one to take care of me.”
According to Zimbabwe’s new constitution, the state and all institutions of government must support and protect elderly persons. Section 2: 21 (b) says the state must ensure the provision of facilities, food and social care for the elderly who are in need.
“The state and all institutions and agencies of government at every level must take reasonable measure, including legislative measures to secure respect, support and protection of elderly persons. It shall endeavour within the limits of the resources available to them: foster social organisations aimed at improving the quality of life of elderly persons,” says the constitution adopted recently.
Post published in: News
afternoon, i would like to join the elderly home