VP to grace elders’ national conference in Dodoma

ARUSHA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi is expected to grace the National General Meeting of the Tanzania Elder Men Association (CCWWT) in Dodoma on June 30, where delegates will discuss key issues affecting the welfare and development of older persons.

Speaking to journalists in Arusha yesterday, CCWWT Arusha Urban District Chairperson, Abel Mollel said the meeting will bring together elderly men from across the country under the theme, “Elders Are a Strong Pillar in the Implementation of the National Development Vision.”

He said participants will deliberate on health, economic empowerment, property management, the contribution of older persons to national development, as well as challenges and opportunities facing the elderly.

According to Mr Mollel, delegates will also review reports on the implementation of the association’s activities and discuss recommendations from various committees overseeing the organisation’s operations and development.

“The meeting will provide an important platform for elders to assess achievements, discuss future plans and formulate strategies for strengthening the association,” he said.

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The association has urged the government to consider appointing representatives of older persons to Parliament and other public institutions to advocate for issues affecting the elderly, including access to the 10 per cent loans provided by local government authorities.

CCWWT National Deputy Director of Projects, Mr Kemmy Missomile, called for older persons to be prioritised in accessing loans to expand their economic activities and improve their livelihoods.

He noted that many elderly people are engaged in income generating ventures, including agriculture and beekeeping, and that improved access to capital would boost production and market opportunities.

Meanwhile, the association’s Assistant National Publicity Secretary, Mr Amrik Singh Mehmi, said CCWWT plans to construct a referral hospital in Makuyuni, where it already owns land and has secured all required legal documentation.

He added that the association is implementing development projects in irrigation farming and other productive sectors. He invited investors and stakeholders to partner with the organisation in advancing national development.