A new fellowship centre at Kworo Cottages in Pader Town offers elderly residents a space to meet, share experiences, and discuss issues affecting their lives.
It was constructed by Alice Akello, the director of Kworo Cottages, to give older people a place to interact and participate in recreational activities.
Akello said the facility would help elderly people maintain social relationships and spend time with others in their age group.
Bishop Wilson Kitara of Kitgum Diocese, who presided over the launch, urged communities to value older people and draw on their experience and knowledge.
Citing Hebrews 10:22–25, Kitara emphasised the importance of fellowship and encouraging one another. He expressed concern that some young people were neglecting elderly family members and making decisions without seeking their advice.
He said older people should be given opportunities to share lessons from their lives with younger generations.Rev. Donato Okumu, the overseer of Faith Mission in Pader and Agago districts, welcomed the initiative but urged the organisers to establish a leadership structure to guide the fellowship and ensure the centre is used effectively.
Retired teacher Balino Okwere, 76, from Kilak Corner, proposed that the fellowship introduce savings activities to help members improve their livelihoods.
Okwere said many elderly people could no longer manage demanding agricultural work because of their age, adding that pooling resources could enable them to start small income-generating activities while supporting one another.
Pader District Female Youth Councillor Catherine Apiyo said older people were increasingly being excluded from decisions affecting families and communities despite their experience and knowledge.
She said the centre could help reduce isolation among elderly people and provide opportunities for meaningful social interaction.
Apiyo also urged young people to participate in some of the fellowship’s activities to learn from older generations and preserve Acholi cultural values.
The organisers are expected to establish a leadership structure and develop activities to guide the fellowship as it begins operating in Pader District-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
