"Ageing is not optional; let's promote and protect older persons' rights."
The Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development aims to commemorate this day under the theme “Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Older Persons; Everyone’s Responsibility because Ageing is Not Optional.”
This theme emphasises the need for collective action to promote and protect the rights of older persons.
The older population (60+ years) in Uganda has significantly increased from 1.7 million in 2016/17 to 2.3 million, according to the recent Uganda Population and Housing Census.
There is a growing concern about elder abuse in Uganda, with alarming statistics:
- 25% experience physical abuse.
- 6.8% face sexual abuse.
- 49% suffer psychological abuse.
The Minister of State for Elderly Affairs, Hon. Gidudu Mafwabi Dominic, has highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns and needs of older persons. Initiatives such as SAGE and SEGOP have been implemented to empower and support older persons.
“Government is committed to addressing the concerns and needs of older persons. We have implemented initiatives like SAGE and SEGOP to empower and support them.” Hon. Gidudu said
Key initiatives include:
- Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE): 307,123 older persons receive monthly entitlements of US$25,000.
- Special Enterprise Grant for Older Persons (SEGOP): 9,932 older persons have received funding for small enterprises.
- National Social Protection Strategy: Developed to guide social protection investments.
- Revised National Policy for Older Persons 2024: To be launched on October 1, 2024.
Despite the progress, Minister Gidudu acknowledges that challenges persist. Future efforts will focus on promoting older people’s rights and addressing abuse, providing medical insurance and community care, and encouraging intergenerational support.
“Despite progress, challenges persist. We must address limited access to the parish development model, budget cuts, and increase support for older persons.” He noted
The national celebrations will take place at Liberation Square in Masaka City, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni expected to be the chief guest.
