Clare
Employed Ugandans are encouraged to plan for retirement as soon as they start working to ensure a comfortable old age.
The advice, comes from Mr. Edward Basaliza Akorebirungi, a retired senior banker, Rotarian, and founding member of Jubilee Radio who recently celebrated his platinum jubilee birthday and 42 years of marriage with a vibrant ceremony at his home in Kijenga, Kabarole District.
At 70, Mr. Basaliza is recognized for his successful farming endeavors, including banana plantations, cattle, and goats, as well as his leadership in the Rotary Club.
On Saturday last week at the Thanksgiving Mass, Rev Fr Moses Mutangirizi the Parish priest Bukwali hailed Mr Basaliza for having carefully prepared for his old age as evidenced from the current projects he has at his home, rallying Christians to borrow a leaf.
In an exclusive interview with Jubilee Radio, Mr. Basaliza advised employees to focus on establishing income-generating projects for their retirement years when they will no longer earn a salary. He emphasized the value of investing in agriculture, describing it as a reliable source of income.
“I would recommend that anyone with land consider investing in agriculture, as people need to eat every day. Although there are challenges like price fluctuations, this issue is global. If market conditions are favorable, having agricultural products to sell can be highly advantageous.” He noted
According to Basaliza, inadequate planning has caused many of his colleagues to struggle financially and die shortly after retirement.
“They were accustomed to white-collar jobs, and when the luxuries of their previous lives are no longer available, they find it difficult to adjust to a more modest life in their home villages. This struggle is partly because they did not invest in improving their village conditions while they were still employed.” Narrated Basaliza
In contrast, Basaliza has managed to generate income through his agricultural activities.
Couples advised on happy marriage
Reflecting on his 70th birthday and 42 years of marriage, Mr. Basaliza shared insights into maintaining a happy marriage, including joint partnership, unity, transparency, understanding, and trust, something he noted has made the last 42 years of marriage with his wife successful.
As away of marking 70 biblical year that calls for giving back to God, Mr. Basaliza sought to raise 6 million Shillings for the construction of Our Lady of Fatima Kijenga Catholic Church, as a way of giving back to the community.
“When I turned seventy, I didn’t want to be like the lepers in the Bible who were healed by Jesus but did not return to give thanks, except for one. I felt it was important to publicly thank my Creator because I have experienced a life that has been largely happy and fulfilling.”
