In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, the role of elders in our communities is often overlooked.
However, Tom Okello Ekol, the Otikokin Clan Chief of Dokolo County, has reminded youth of the valuable role that our elders play in our society.
Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony for 94-year-old Mzee Moses Okabo and his 93-year-old wife Lubisa Okabo at their ancestral home in Okwer-kwor village, Alapata parish, Bata sub-county in Dokolo district, Okello emphasized the need for youths to support and take care of their elders in the community.
Okello highlighted the need for youths to take care of their elders, both physically and spiritually, in order for them to continue being pillars of wisdom and guidance for future generations.
Okello also stressed the significance of elders in the community and the importance of showing them love and respect.
According to Okello, the youth should not only care for their elders but also support them financially.
“Many elders in our communities are living on limited resources, and it is the responsibility of the youth to ensure that their needs are taken care of” he noted.
According to him the support not only shows appreciation for the wisdom and guidance they provide but also helps them to live longer, healthier lives.
During the event, the lay reader of St. Peter’s Akuki in Bata parish, Tom Okwara, shared a message from the book of Joshua, chapter 23, verse 1-3, emphasizing the blessings that come from honoring and caring for elders.
He reminded the youth to receive these blessings peacefully and not forcefully, as it is through this act of kindness that we can learn valuable lessons and gain wisdom from our elders.
Dr. Rosemary Alwoc, represented by Geoffrey Okalu, also expressed gratitude towards the elderly, acknowledging them as the foundation of mentorship in the community.
“As they are of the same age as my late mother, Cecilia Atim Ogwal, I am pleased to see them living a good life with love from their young ones,” she said.
Kasemiro Ogwal, in his speech, praised the children of Mzee Moses Okabo and Lubisa Okabo for remembering their parents.
He also expressed his interest in representing the people of Dokolo North county in the 12th Parliament in the 2026 elections.
The honored couple, Mzee Moses Okabo, and Lubisa Okabo, according to the report have lived their lives with integrity and have never been taken to any legal court for wrongdoing.
As Mzee Okabo celebrated his 94th birthday, he continues to inspire others with his stories of resilience and perseverance while working as a driver during colonial times.
His wife, Lubisa Okabo, has been a constant source of support and love, standing by his side for over 64 years since they got married in 1956.