Nairobi: Kenya joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of Older Persons, observed annually on October 1, with renewed calls for stronger support systems, greater protection, and increased recognition of senior citizens’ contribution to society. The occasion, held at PC Kinyanjui Technical Training Grounds in Dagoretti South constituency, Nairobi County, was organised by Ahadi Kenya Trust in partnership with NCBA Bank, the National Gender and Equality Commission and other stakeholders.
According to Kenya News Agency, community leaders and civil society advocates present at the event expressed concern over the growing challenges faced by the elderly, including dementia, poverty, limited access to healthcare, and cases of abuse. The event was celebrated under the global theme: ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action – Our Aspirations, Our Well-being, Our Rights.’
Elijah Mwega, CEO of the Kenyan Aged People Require Information, Knowledge and Advancement (KARIKA) organisation, emphasised the urgent need to raise awareness on dementia, noting that many elderly persons living with the condition often get lost or face heightened vulnerability. Mwega urged the government to establish rescue centers and intensify public awareness of the condition.
Mwega also called for a legislative framework to safeguard older persons, highlighting the numerous challenges they continue to face in society. He commended the ongoing efforts by President William Ruto’s administration to provide inclusive healthcare through the Social Health Authority (SHA) and urged the government to ensure all elderly persons are fully mobilized and registered under the scheme to guarantee enhanced access to treatment and care.
While appreciating the Sh2,000 monthly stipend for senior citizens aged above 70 years, Mwega appealed for an increase in the amount due to the rising cost of living. He noted that many elderly persons are raising grandchildren while struggling to meet their daily needs. Furthermore, he encouraged the government to establish more social centers for elders to gather, interact, and air their concerns.
Ahadi Kenya Trust Executive Director, Dr. Stanley Kamau, echoed Mwega’s sentiments, calling for stronger community support for the elderly. Dr. Kamau condemned the rising cases of attacks on older persons accused of witchcraft and emphasized the need for communities and authorities to protect the dignity of this vulnerable segment of society.
Dr. Kamau also raised concerns over cases where senior citizens live in fear of robbery, even after receiving the government cash transfer stipend. He urged the community to provide the elderly with basic necessities to ensure they live with dignity and appealed to corporate organisations, including NCBA Bank, to support the construction of decent homes for vulnerable elderly persons.
Caroline Ngatia, NCBA Bank’s Kawangware Branch Manager, reaffirmed her institution’s commitment to supporting the welfare of senior citizens, describing them as the heartbeat of society and pillars of knowledge. She highlighted the bank’s belief in the power of inclusion and empowering every generation by amplifying the elders’ aspirations, well-being, and rights.
Meanwhile, as Kenya confronts the realities of the marginalisation of the elderly, the celebrations carried a clear message: that society must take deliberate and compassionate steps to safeguard the dignity, rights, and well-being of its senior citizens.
