Otavi elderly treated to early celebrations

More than 500 senior citizens in Otavi were treated to an Elders’ Holiday Party earlier this week. For the second year running, this special event was organized by International Facilities Services (IFS) and B2Gold Namibia’s Corporate Social Responsibility Department, in association with the Otavi Town Council.

B2Gold Namibia’s Otjikoto Gold Mine just off the B1 between Otjiwarongo and Otavi broke ground in April and will pour its first gold before the end of this year. It is B2Gold’s corporate social objective to add real value to the communities in which it operates, and to demonstrate a spirit of true partnership.  Sherri Lytle, CSR Manager for B2Gold Namibia, said “The event was a spectacular success last year, and we hope to bring even more joy this year. Our elders’ wisdom and advice are so easily forgotten in the hustle and bustle of modern life. This is an event to give thanks to the seniors of Otavi, highlighting the special contribution that their knowledge and life experience bring to the local community.” The elders were hosted in the Otavi Community Hall, with Mayor Markus Damaseb presiding over the festive get-together. Guests enjoyed a gourmet lunch and were entertained by the choir from Shalom Primary School whose members helped to hand out Christmas gifts to the elderly. As a parting gift, each senior citizen received a grocery hamper to take home.