The country’s Defence and Security Services have extended a powerful hand of compassion to one of Lusaka’s often-forgotten communities, donating mealie meal, food supplies and assorted essentials worth twelve thousand Kwacha to the Matero After Care Center, a facility caring for vulnerable elderly people.
The items which include mealie meal, rice, kapenta, cooking oil, soya pieces, sugar, salt, toiletries and other necessities are expected to ease the daily struggles of the 44 elderly residents, many of whom face mental health challenges, chronic illnesses, or have no traceable family members.
In a statement issued by Mr. Paul Shalala, the ministry's PPRO, the donation was officially handed over by Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu, who said the gesture reflects the unwavering commitment of the men and women in uniform to stand with the vulnerable.
“This is not the first or the last time. The center remains close to our hearts, and we will come back,” Mr. Haamaundu assured.
According to Ministry of Defence Chaplain General Henry Matifeyo, the twelve thousand Kwacha was raised during a special thanksgiving service held last year at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross, where defence personnel gathered to thank God for protecting Zambian peacekeepers abroad and officers securing national borders.
He explained that the Defence and Security Wings chose Matero After Care because of its vital role in supporting the elderly a group that society often overlooks.
And the center’s Acting In-Charge, Gertrude Mwangilwa, expressed deep gratitude, saying the donation will significantly improve the welfare of the residents.
“This contribution will go a long way in feeding and supporting our elderly,” she said.
JUST TO UNLOCK YOUR MIND
Support for institutions like Matero After Care often relies on public goodwill, yet they shoulder some of the toughest social responsibilities caring for people who once built the nation but now have nowhere else to turn.
When national defence teams step out of their uniform roles to give back, it reminds the country that security isn’t just about borders. It’s also about securing dignity, compassion, and community.
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