As the world prepares to observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, Uganda’s Minister of State for Elderly Affairs, Hon Dominic Mafwabi Gidudu, has outlined the nation’s agenda for the occasion.
Speaking at a press address, at the Media Center in , Gidudu emphasized the importance of addressing elder abuse and raising awareness about the rights of older persons under the theme
“Gender-Based Violence in Old Age: A Call for Action. Individuals aged 60 years and older face various forms of mistreatment, including false accusations like witchcraft against older women, physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, psychological abuse, financial abuse, neglect, and isolation,” Gidudu highlighted.
He stressed that World Elder Abuse Awareness Day serves as a crucial platform to measure the effectiveness of government and stakeholder interventions against such abuses.
The minister assured that the government is committed to protecting the rights of the elderly, revealing that a new law with strict penalties for violations against elderly persons will soon be enacted.
"This day amplifies the societal benefits of safeguarding the rights of older individuals," Gidudu stated.
To support the elderly population, the Government of Uganda is implementing the Social Enterprise Grant for Older Persons (SEGOP) for individuals aged 60-79.
This initiative promotes a group-oriented approach to help vulnerable older persons engage in income-generating activities, thereby increasing household income.
“SEGOP aims to integrate older persons into national development through economic participation,” Gidudu explained.
In addition to SEGOP, the government continues to support older citizens through the SAGE program, which provides assistance to those aged 80 and above, and the 10% loan-based fund under the Parish Development Model (PDM).
These programs collectively aim to improve the economic well-being and social inclusion of Uganda’s elderly population.Gidudu also called upon all Ugandans and media members to champion the rights of the elderly, ensuring they can age gracefully and with dignity.
The national festivities for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day will take place at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala on Saturday, June 15th, 2024.
According to the UBOS 2020 Statistical Abstract, Uganda has approximately 2.2 million older persons out of a total population estimate of 45.2 million.
The recently concluded National Housing and Population Census 2024 is expected to provide updated figures on the elderly population, further informing policy and intervention strategies.
The minister’s address underscores a growing recognition of the challenges faced by older persons in Uganda. By spotlighting elder abuse and advocating for the rights of older individuals, Uganda joins the global community in addressing this critical issue, fostering a more inclusive and respectful society for all ages.
