MDF STEPS UP EFFORTS TO SUPPORT RETIRED SOLDIERS

The Malawi Defence Force (MDF) is targeting K500 million to support retired soldiers, particularly elderly veterans who can no longer adequately provide for themselves.

The funds will be raised through various activities ahead of this year’s Remembrance Day, scheduled for November 8.

Speaking during a press briefing at the War Memorial Tower in Lilongwe on Tuesday, Ministry of Defence Military Veterans Affairs Coordinator, retired Kelton Kaleke, said the activities would include the sale of poppy flowers, a veterans’ city march, a thanksgiving golf tournament and a cycling event from Blantyre to Lilongwe.

Kaleke said the initiative aimed to recognise the sacrifices made by former soldiers who served in various wars and military assignments.

He urged Malawians to support veterans in appreciation of their contribution to the country’s peace and freedom.

Kaleke said the Ministry of Defence had records of retired soldiers and was working to ensure they received the necessary assistance.
He added that the ministry was also preparing serving soldiers approaching retirement with skills to help them identify investment opportunities and achieve financial independence.

Chief of Human Resource Management and Development, Brigadier General Precious Basikolo, called on Malawians to respect and support veterans for their sacrifices in protecting the country.

Basikolo said soldiers often left their families behind while serving the nation, making support for them and their dependants important.

Retired soldier Ibrahim Sichali, who joined the military in 1955, commended the MDF for continuing to care for former soldiers after their retirement.

Sichali said he was proud that Malawi continued to enjoy peace and freedom despite the loss of fellow soldiers during military operations.

Remembrance Day honours military personnel who died in wars and other assignments while recognising the sacrifices of serving soldiers.

Malawi has also contributed troops to international peacekeeping missions, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).