Vice President Lucia Witbooi attended a Christmas Eve luncheon with the elders in Gibeon to celebrate the festive season and share in the spirit of unified community.

 The luncheon was hosted by the newly elected Gibeon village council, with over 60 individuals were in attendance.

"It is a time to remind us of the importance of caring for one another, particularly for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. I am encouraged by the inclusive nature of this occasion, which places senior citizens and persons with disabilities at the centre of our celebrations. Their presence here today is a powerful reminder that inclusivity is not a slogan but a commitment."

Councillor Hans Hangue said the newly elected council organised the luncheon for elders and people with disabilities as a gesture of appreciation for the elders who play a vital role in supporting the community.

The NBC News team spoke with several elders, who praised the village council for organising the event in their honour

Ignatius Berend, a resident of Gibeon, said that " This is the first time this has happened in the history of Gibeon, we really have to applaud the new elected village council. I appreciate everything that was done for the elders for those disabled people, this is an example how the village council and the vice president love their people"

Paulina Jacobs, who is also a resident of Gibeon, showed gratitude to the council, stating that she is thankful for the councillors elected this year: "They are new and did something special for the elders and the people who are living with disabilities, and for that I am thankful."

 The Vice President urged the public to use the festive season to renew their commitment to unity, inclusivity and compassion and to build communities where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to contribute meaningfully to the nation's development.