Narraville community starts old-age home project

The Narraville community at Walvis Bay witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony of a new senior citizens’ home on Friday.

Residents have gor years been dreaming of building a home where their elderly will be taken care of.

A group of residents thus started to work on the project three years ago, after board chairman David Williams shared his dream with friends.

Williams said he was inspired by the Bible and founding president Sam Nujoma.

“I saw our elderly citizens struggle and saw that I had to do something to make their lives easier. I have a place in my heart for elderly people.

“I was inspired by the words of the founding president who said we must look after our elders. The Bible instructs us to honour or parents so that our days will be lengthened.

“I felt inspired to act on the word of God and that of the founding president. Hence the dream of building the home was born. We urge everybody to help us build this home,” he said.

After completion, the building would consist of 58 single and double residential units, each with a bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and lounge, which will be constructed at a cost of N$250 000 per unit.

It would also have a hall with a kitchen and a fully equipped medical centre.

Deputy minister of health and social services Ester Muinjangue, who was also present on Friday, said the importance of older people care cannot be understated, and urged the younger generation to take care of their elders.

“While some studies suggest that anxiety may increase with age, others stress the need for physical and emotional care as one gets older. To bring comfort and ease to the lives of the elders that live with us or need care, you can take the necessary steps and add to their emotional and mental well-being.

“As people age, physical strength, and behavioural patterns change, and they may become quite unstable. It is at this stage of life that most people require more care and support,” she said.

Minister of fisheries and marine resources Derek Klazen, who is also from Narraville, said the elderly prossess a wealth of knowledge they have gained during a lifetime of triumphs and challenges.

“In a world that often seems to prioritise the youth and speed, we must pause and remind ourselves of the immeasurable worth of our elderly. We must recognise that their stories, their memories and their perspectives are treasures that enrich our lives.

“It is through the lens of their experiences that we gain a deeper understanding of our history, culture and identity. Taking care of the elderly is not merely an act of compassion, it is testament to our collective humanity.

“Their well-being reflects the strength of our society and our commitment to upholding the principles of compassion, empathy and solidarity,” he said.

Stakeholders are hoping for companies’ financial support to realise their dream.