{UAH} INT'L DAY FOR THE ELDERLY (BAJAJJA)

October 1st, tomorrow, is International Day for older persons (Olunaku lwa bazeeyi/abajajja). I feel that this day needs to be celebrated even in families. In Africa, elders have traditionally held a special place. Both in our families and our communities. They are the guardians of our heritage, the libraries of African history. They talk what they saw and what their own grandparents and elders before them taught when they were also young. Traditionally, they play a leadership role in community matters and even many times they get together to hear public complaints, resolve conflicts and even dispense community justice. Society can be rated by how we treat and respect our elders. Of course nobody underestimates their biggest asset, the wisdom they carry with them, and which they offer freely to those who make the time to come to them and listen. On this day let us recognize all the elders (whether in our families, our societies, nationally or internationally) who hold an important place in our lives.

We should have organized a special elders party. It is always a pleasure (particularly for children) to join in as elders freely enjoy themselves together once in a year.

But remember that they also need support. Including in access to healthcare, guarantees of their rights, and even just leaving for them the chair when no seat is available. That has always been the African tradition taught to every child. The same happens almost everywhere around the world. A sign of respect and care.

This year I choose to remember my former UN boss the late Koffi Annan (RIP) who was laid to rest two weeks ago (on 13th September 2018). A humble, sober and committed African who continued his service to humanity even after retirement. Incidentally he was chairman of an internationally respected organization called "The Elders Forum" founded by another great African elder, the late Nelson Mandela. While both retired and left the official baton to the next generation, their hearts continued to serve mankind in old age right to their last breath, earning them the baton of posterity.

By Mr  Hussein Lumumba Amin

30 Sept 2018

Kampala, Uganda

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