Malawi Foundation Urges Support for Elderly, Donates to Vulnerable Groups
The donations were made possible by U.S.-based Malawian Muderanji Mazinga, originally from the Dyeratu area.
CHIKWAWA, Malawi— A community organization in Malawi is calling for increased support and protection of the elderly while combating accusations of witchcraft against older individuals, writes Moses Thole.
Evance Mathews, chairperson of the Dyeratu Nzika Community Foundation, made the appeal Saturday during a donation event for aged and vulnerable people in Chikwawa district.
"We're making this gesture to celebrate with these people as we commemorate Mother's Day," Mathews said.
He urged communities to refrain from accusing elderly people of witchcraft, stating, "When everyone is old, they should not be considered a witch. This is embarrassing, as some are losing their lives."
The foundation distributed various items, including food, soap, and money, to five elderly individuals in Traditional Authorities Katunga and Kasisi.
The donations were made possible by U.S.-based Malawian Muderanji Mazinga, originally from the Dyeratu area.
Emilia Thomas, nearly 80 years old and living with her granddaughter, expressed gratitude for the support.
"It's the grace of God," she said. "It's God who has made it possible for me to have food today since I lack many necessities."
Matthews emphasized the importance of community involvement in caring for the elderly, highlighting the foundation's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations in the region.