The Keetmanshoop Municipality kicked off the year on a compassionate note by handing out food parcels to senior citizens.

The annual social programme aims to alleviate household food insecurity among the elderly.

The food parcels are strictly reserved for elderly residents registered with the municipality from 2024 to date. 

The current distribution marks phase one of the programme. 

Food parcels will be handed out at Keetmanshoop Municipality Office, as well as at WK Rover Hall, which serves residents from Riverside, Mass Housing Rykmansdorp, Skakkel Huis, |Gereres Soweto, P Lokasie, Build Together, Soek and Kry, Koppies-laagte and Ileni.

"The next phase will take place from next Monday. The number of beneficiaries is very large, which is why we divided the distribution into phases. We have identified around 1,700 to 1,800 elderly residents. We do not want people to sit in long queues, so we are distributing the parcels in manageable numbers to ensure fairness and dignity for everyone," said Keetmanshoop mayor Melody Swartbooi.

Swartbooi says the parcels serve as a token of appreciation towards the elders.

"The municipality has an annual programme where we give back to our elderly. These food parcels are a small token of appreciation for our senior citizens. While I was standing outside, I heard some complaints that the parcels are too small, but this is what we can manage for now. We are doing our best to give back to the elders of our community." 

The recipients expressed their gratitude to the municipality.