By J. K. Nabary
Winneba (C/R), June 12, GNA-Neenyi Ghartey VII, Oma Odefe (Paramount Chief) of the Effutu Traditional Area, has stated that retirement should never be viewed as withdrawal from relevance.
He said that pension was a transition into a respected phase of mentorship, guidance, reflection and continuity of service to society.
Neenyi Ghartey, made the observation in an address delivered by Neenyi Apreaku, the Adontehene of the Traditional Area when he chaired the inauguration of the Effutu Chapter of the National Pensioners Association (NPA).
He said: “Pensioners are the treasures of experience and fountains of wisdom, and we identify strongly with their journey and as well recognise their immense roles in shaping communities and the Country as a whole.”
He stated that their elevation was well deserved and stood as recognition of commitment and growth of the noble association within the Effutu Municipality.
The Oma Odefe said as the association assumed a district status, there was greater opportunity ahead for stronger advocacy, improved coordination, deeper unity among members and enhanced collaboration with stakeholders and institutions in the municipality.
According to Neenyi Ghartey, who is also the Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba, the progress of every society rests upon the sacrifices of men and women who devoted their youthful days to serve the public in the areas of education, health, and security among others, to sustain national development.
He said the Effutu Traditional Council appreciated the wisdom, counsel and stability that pensioners brought to the society and gave an assurance that they would continue to support initiatives and programs to promote the welfare, dignity and well-being of pensioners within the traditional area.
“Let this District become a beacon of solidarity, discipline and purposeful thinking and, as we celebrate this milestone, let us also remember our collective responsibility as a society to honour and protect those who have laboured faithfully for the development of our nation of which Pensioners deserved dignity, respect, social inclusion, proper healthcare and timely support,” Neenyi Ghartey said.
He applauded the national leadership and the executives of the renewed Effutu Chapter for their hardwork, commitment and visionary leadership which culminated into the achievement that had brought honour not only to the Association, but also to the traditional area.
He said: “As we celebrate this milestone, we encourage you to continue fostering unity, togetherness and active participation in your affairs, to let this district become a beacon of solidarity, discipline and purposeful thinking.
“Pensioners deserve dignity, respect, social inclusion, proper healthcare, and timely support and may this new chapter bring good, renewed unity, lasting success to the association and all its members.”
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Benjamin Mensah