By Mike Rwothomio

The Erussi-Paidha Community Association marked its 30th anniversary on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Winner’s Palace in Paidha Town Council, Zombo District, with renewed emphasis on unity, collective hard work, and the vital role of community-based mutual support structures in fostering social cohesion and sustainable development.

Established in January 1996, the association serves as a uniting voices providing advocacy for residents from the sub-counties of Erussi, Dhew, Acana, and Atego based in Zombo District.

With over 70 active members, it operates as a member-driven mutual aid and savings support group, delivering essential social protection mechanisms and informal welfare services to its constituents.

Core services include member-accessible loans for income-generating activities and emergencies, solidarity contributions for burial support, educational assistance for dependents, wedding contributions, and other mutual aid interventions that serve as critical social safety nets.

These initiatives promote financial inclusion, resilience against shocks, and community-level resource sharing, particularly for marginalized households without access to formal banking or government social protection programs.

During the anniversary event, fifth Chairperson Mr. Richard Acayerach addressed members, stressing the importance of unity and togetherness for ongoing progress.

He specifically encouraged greater youth participation, noting: “The youth should join the group, it will benefit you because we have experienced people of different professions.”

General secretary of the association Valentine Owile.

General Secretary Valentine Owile reinforced the association's foundational vision, stating: “In good and bad times, yes we are together.” He affirmed that membership doors remain open to all while cautioning young people against joining divisive politics that undermine collective goals.

Former Chairperson Edward Opar commended current leaders for sustaining the association over three decades and called for enhanced financial management through increased contributions, as well as documentation of past leaders' legacies to preserve institutional memory.

A guest representative from the Parombo-Paidha Community Association praised the group's endurance, highlighting how such community associations foster a strong sense of belonging through organized social events and provide welcoming environments for members.

The association offer platforms for addressing local issues, mediating disputes, raising funds for shared community facilities, and managing collective resources effectively.

Leaders were urged to maintain firm, inclusive leadership despite inherent challenges, ensuring the association continues to serve as a pillar of cohesion and progress for the Erussi-Paidha community.

Eruusi-Paidha Community for a get together party at Winners palace in Palace town council

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa, your number one grassroot information hub.