By Wezzie Gausi:
President Lazarus Chakwera launched this year’s Poppy Week Monday, calling on Malawians to reflect on and emulate the commitment of veterans and ex-servicemen in the country’s struggle for freedom.
The event took place at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe, where the President urged everyone to assist in any way possible during this week.
Chakwera was the first to purchase a poppy flower and contributed K2 million to support former soldiers, whose organisation, the Veterans and Ex-Service League of Malawi (Velom), aims to collect K200 million for this year’s Poppy Week.
“We are here to declare publicly that it is their dedication that merits our deepest recognition. We are here to express our heartfelt gratitude by vowing not only to remember their contributions but also to emulate their example of service to the country in any way we can approximate it during the peace we now enjoy on their account.
“As we commence the Poppy Appeal Week, let us reflect on the significance of the contributions of these heroes. The poppy symbolises both the blood that purchased our freedom and the resilience of those who returned home from the front lines.
“It is especially important for us to be mindful of those who returned home, because here in Malawi, we have many veterans residing at the War Memorial Homes in Zomba, who continue to face challenges that we, as a nation, must address,” the President said.
He added that although the government has initiated various measures to tackle these issues and improve the quality of life for veterans, Poppy Week provides an opportunity for authorities to explore ways to redouble their efforts and do better.
“Most importantly, it offers all citizens of this country a chance to be reminded to do their part in supporting the government’s noble endeavour to do right by our veterans.
“Let us join hands to make a substantial impact. Let us join hands to express our gratitude both in word and in deed,” Chakwera said.
Velom Chairperson General Henry Odillo (Rtd) said since the organisation’s establishment seven years ago, it has been entrusted with looking after the welfare of veterans.
Odillo remarked that this is an opportune time for organisations and individuals to assist in the welfare of the men in uniform who fought for this country.
“We are going to engage the private sector and other partners to help raise funds for the welfare of our veterans. These funds will also assist us in rehabilitating the veterans’ homes in Zomba.
“Of course, there are still numerous challenges we face, especially regarding pensions. We hope the government will treat these issues with urgency,” he said.
Currently, Malawi has nine men in uniform who fought for the country and these men are housed in Zomba at the veterans’ home.
Poppy Week refers to a time when awareness is raised for veterans and remembrance of those who served in the military, often through the sale of poppy flowers.
The origin of Poppy Week can be traced back to the aftermath of World War I. Today, Poppy Week is observed in various countries, particularly within the Commonwealth, as a time to honour those who served in the armed forces.
0 Comments