Mother (90), daughter (66) beat the odds together

For the past 40 years, 90-year-old Anna Jan has called Epukiro Post 3 in the Omaheke region home, alongside her 66-year-old daughter, Katrina Jan.

For the two pensioners, every month is a careful balancing act.

Between food, daily essentials and the aches and pains that come with age, their pensions have to be carefully managed. Yet they face each day together, the two of them relying on no one but each other.

Speaking to Namibian Sun last Friday, Anna said she is grateful to have reached the age of 90 and to still have the strength to look after both herself and her daughter.

"I thank God for giving me a long life. I'm 90 now, but I still feel strong," she said. "As long as I can wake up every morning, I will continue doing what I can."

Mother and daughter survive on their monthly old-age pensions of N$1 600 each.

Much of that money goes towards healthcare costs, leaving little for groceries and other household essentials.

"We have to make the money last because medicine comes first," Katrina said. "After that, we buy food and whatever else we can afford," she added.

Over the years, they supplemented their income by taking on odd jobs whenever work was available.

Those opportunities have become scarcer as they have grown older, making the two pensions their only dependable source of income.

"When my money is finished, my daughter helps me if she still has something. And when hers is finished, I help her. That's how we survive," Anna said.

Gratitude keeps her going

Katrina said stretching a pension through a full month requires vigilance, especially when unexpected expenses arise.

"The money doesn't last the whole month. We budget carefully and help each other because that's all we have," she said.

Although many would expect a daughter to care for her ageing mother, their roles have, in many ways, been reversed. Anna continues to provide comfort, guidance and practical support, proving that a mother’s role does not end with age.

Looking back on four decades in Epukiro Post 3, she said life has been difficult, but she remains thankful for every day, focusing on gratitude, not hardship.

"I've lived here for 40 years. Life has never been easy, but I'm thankful to still be here. As long as God gives me strength, I will continue caring for my daughter," Anna said.

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