Lodwar:The national government has expanded its cash transfer programme in Turkana County, increasing the number of elderly people and persons with severe disabilities benefiting from the initiative from 20,000 to 26,000.
According to Kenya News Agency, James Kiptoon, the County Coordinator for the Directorate of Social Development, announced this expansion while marking the International Day of Older Persons. He expressed gratitude to the head of state and the State Department for Social Protection for responding to the appeals from the county leadership of minority and marginalized communities.
Beginning in the financial year 2026/27, the State Department for Social Protection will implement this increase in beneficiaries in response to requests by the county leadership to the president. Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus highlighted that both national and county governments have broadened the social protection framework to ensure that older individuals can live with dignity.
Dr. Erus also mentioned that the county government is developing plans to provide housing for the elderly. He emphasized the importance of celebrating older persons for their resilience and contributions, stating that the government aims to instill hope and confidence that their efforts will not be in vain.
The event also featured participation from Echamiato, an NGO focused on livelihood and social protection for older persons. Rebecca Lomalia, the NGO programme lead, advocated for the inclusion of older persons in decision-making processes to reduce loneliness and depression among them. She also called for health sector partners to enhance systems to better accommodate older persons, ensuring dignified access to healthcare services.
The International Day of Older Persons is observed globally and in Kenya every October 1 to honor senior citizens’ contributions and address age-related challenges.
