One who calls their kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving, for they have food at home. They come together because it is good for the kinsmen to do so. The statement is an adaptation from Chinua Achebe’s novel; Things fall apart.
Observing international awareness days somewhat aligns to global standards in recognizing social problems we share as humans. Notable popular days religiously celebrated worldwide include Women’s Day, Day of the African Child and the International Day of Elderly Persons.
September 30th, sounds of rhumba, zilizopendwa, twist & chart-topping luhya tunes rend the air as we celebrate the day of elderly persons worldwide.
It was so glorious to see ‘Wazee’ shaking a leg on the dance floor like life depended on it.
The wazee got to socialize, feast, dance, compete for prizes, exercise, and receive gifts.
For a group that the society often isolates, today was a glorious moment to be outdoors, socialize with peers and feel included.
In between the splendid display, we took a break to listen in to a nutritional talk receiving, food and diet advice, alcohol intake and steps life-prolonging steps because they remain susceptible to life-threatening diseases like cancer, high blood pressure and diabetes.
It was ante up as participants from 20 North Bukusu sub-locations participated in a dance competition and egg race where the winners feted. The curtains closed after a sumptuous lunch treat, and the 412 wazee each received a gift hamper containing essentials.
The idea of celebrating this day is to entertain, celebrate, groom for them to socialize with their peers since some sit lonely, receive little help performing tasks or have any social life to rejuvenate. It’s no fallacy that some live in abject poverty.
Customarily, we groom them, trim hairs, cut nails and blow-dry. They deserve to look young, well-groomed and healthy.
We wish to thank the speakers of the day led by Madam Bibiana Khaemba- a government nutritionist, the village elders (Wakasa), administration chiefs, the live band led by crooner Wabwile wa Barasa and the Rainbow Room Foundation staff for a memorable day specifically to celebrate older persons.
Annually, after the elderly day, ditto, the elderly end-year party.
Post by Anyanzwa Brian.
Photography by Julia Laval.
Leave a Reply