SIMPSON M
Mr. Jackson Nbyanimanya, Chairperson of the Older Persons Council in Rukungiri District, has urged his fellow elderly residents to prioritize healthy living through good nutrition, regular exercise, and involvement in income-generating activities to enhance their well-being.
Mzee Jackson made these remarks during the closing session of an elderly conference held at Nyakishenyi Sub-County headquarters, which drew over 150 participants. In his address, he emphasized the benefits of a balanced diet, noting that proper nutrition boosts immunity, prevents illness, helps maintain a healthy weight, and reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes. He also stressed that physical activity, combined with good nutrition, promotes independence as individuals age.
Additionally, he encouraged both the elderly and younger people to embrace coffee farming, especially in Nyakishenyi, highlighting the support from leaders such as Gen. Besigye, who has established Vene Coffee Farm Limited in Kamaaga, Nyakishenyi. He urged farmers to utilize the resources and expertise available at this coffee factory to improve their farming practices and business opportunities.
Ruraka George, the Publicity Secretary for Older Persons in Rukungiri District, shared that the council has conducted visits across the district to educate the elderly on maintaining their health and remaining valuable contributors to society. He explained that the older population received education on their rights, nutrition, and government programs that could help them generate income, particularly through coffee farming.
George called on the elders in Nyakishenyi to continue investing in coffee farming, addressing recent concerns about the crop and explaining that ongoing developments are meant to benefit farmers. He praised Vene Coffee Farm Limited for bringing essential services closer to local farmers, urging them to take advantage of the factory’s resources to produce high-quality coffee.
Madam Phausita Tugumisirize, General Manager of Vene Coffee Farm Limited, expressed gratitude to the Rukungiri District Older Persons Council for visiting their facility. She acknowledged the valuable experience of older farmers, emphasizing that there is much to learn from them about coffee handling and farming. She encouraged farmers to support Vene Coffee Farm Limited, emphasizing that having the factory nearby saves them transportation costs they previously incurred to have their coffee processed in Rukungiri.
