Sri Sathya Sai International Organization

In the Botswana capital of Gaborone the "Project Happiness" medical camp was held on September 22, 2024, in Rasesa village. The camp brought renewed vitality and joy to over 65 elderly villagers. Organized by the Sathya Sai Trust of Gaborone, the camp provided essential medical services to elders aged 80 and above, who were screened and treated by medical doctors Dr. Sunil Kadiyala, Zone 9 Medical Director and Trustee of the Sathya Sai Trust of Gaborone, Dr. Swetha and Dr. Hitesh Kadiyala. In parallel, the regular volunteers of Sathya Sai Trust of Gaborone continued to run the permanent medical clinic in Gaborone which operates every Sunday throughout the year.

This initiative was conceptualized by Prof. Tsayang, a former University of Botswana professor, who recognized the challenges many elderly people face, including isolation, loneliness, and poor health. In collaboration with Dr. Sunil Kadiyala, she spearheaded the camp with a mission to provide holistic care for the elders, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.

The program began with a prayer led by Reverend Mpoeleng, followed by a welcome address from Prof. Tsayang. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of caring for the elderly, stating that showing them affection not only brings happiness but also helps them feel recognized and appreciated for their contributions to their families, communities, and society.

Ms. Mothudi, the head of Seleka School, reinforced this sentiment, emphasizing that caring for the elderly sets a vital example for younger generations to follow, ensuring a dependable culture of support and respect for elders.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Vandhana Mahajan, one of the event’s sponsors, explained that the goal of the "Project Happiness" medical camp was to bring smiles to the faces of the elderly, offering them comfort and a break from the isolation many often experience. She further expressed that the gathering gave the elders an opportunity to reflect on their lives and share memories with one another.

Dignitaries present at the camp included Village Chief Mr. Sesa Maleele, Headman of Arbitration Mr. D. Maleele, Seleka School Head Ms. Mothudi, and nurses K. Dibula and Mfolwe.

The camp received support from numerous volunteers from Gaborone and Rasesa village, alongside corporate sponsors who co-sponsored the event by providing blankets and food hampers for the elders.

Beyond medical care, the camp focused on promoting well-being, offering guidance on disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, particularly for conditions like diabetes. The initiative aimed to alleviate the isolation often felt by the elderly, providing not only healthcare but also a sense of community and recognition.

The gratitude of the elders was palpable, as they expressed heartfelt appreciation for the love and care they received. The event fostered a spirit of connection, reminding everyone of the importance of caring for the elderly and creating a lasting impact in their lives.

Dr. Kadiyala, on behalf of his team, extended his gratitude to the people of Rasesa for their warm hospitality and support. He also advised healthcare providers to continue following up with the elderly for further medical care and recommendations.

The volunteers, reflecting on their experience, shared that participating in the camp was a deeply rewarding opportunity, providing them with immense satisfaction through their selfless service to those in need.

Through "Project Happiness," the community came together to not only address healthcare needs but to uplift the hearts of Rasesa’s elders, demonstrating the profound power of compassion in action in line with Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings.