Africa-Press – Botswana. Kgosi Olebile Khumo of Foley village in the Tonota District has welcomed the recently introduced P1 400 allowance for senior citizens, noting that despite his village’s small population, several residents are beneficiaries.
While acknowledging the allowance’s potential to alleviate poverty in a village with high unemployment, Kgosi Khumo, also a beneficiary of the allowance, expressed concern over the increased vulnerability of elderly recipients to theft, both from strangers and family members. However, he issued a stern warning against unscrupulous individuals targeting senior citizens following the recent increase of their allowance.
He highlighted the vulnerability of these elderly recipients, urging the government to take strong action against anyone caught stealing from them.
“The increased allowance, while welcomed as a vital source of support, has unfortunately made them targets for theft,” he explained.
Fortunately, he said none of the beneficiaries in his village has ever reported such cases but that does not mean that they do not occur.
He added that his village, despite its small size, has several beneficiaries of the allowance and that the increased vulnerability to theft is a concern across the community.
He acknowledged the positive impact the allowance is having in alleviating poverty in a village already struggling with unemployment, but insisted the safety and security of the elderly must be prioritised.
Kgosi Khumo reiterated his call for relatives to protect their vulnerable family members.
He also advised the beneficiaries themselves to be vigilant, to save wisely, and to report any suspicious activity immediately to the authorities.
He emphasised that these senior citizens are the foundation of the nation and urged relatives to protect their safety and security, especially when collecting their allowance.
He called on the government and relevant institutions to enhance security measures at payment distribution points. Furthermore, he advised beneficiaries to use the money wisely, avoid misuse, and consider saving or joining community groups like Motshelo to improve their livelihoods, ideally with the help of trustworthy relatives.
He cautioned that money is a valuable resource that should be managed carefully to avoid its rapid depletion.
Ms Mmankhibidu Monyamane, a beneficiary of the allowance, echoed the widespread appreciation for the initiative, suggesting it was long overdue and should have been implemented earlier.
She expressed her intention to use the money responsibly, acknowledging its timely arrival given her responsibility of caring for her grandchildren.
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