This archive report was first published on 15 June 2020.
On June 15, 2020, the Kenyan government marked the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) with a national virtual symposium at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection's headquarters.
The symposium, themed 'Uprooting Elder Abuse, Plant a Seed for Change,' aimed to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation.
Patrick Ole Ntutu, the Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, emphasized the need to bring young people on board through intergenerational approaches and programs to help them understand that ageing is a process and they should care for their parents.
He noted that it is disheartening to see media documentaries highlighting elders abuse being perpetrated by their families, some of which result in death.
The government has plans to establish a model home for older persons in Kirinyaga to promote and secure the welfare and rights of older persons who have been abandoned, neglected, or abused.
Wamwangi Kinuthia, the Ambassador for Older Persons, urged the government to establish a commission that will coordinate older persons' issues at the national and county governments.
He also called for the development of sensitization and awareness programs on older persons, noting that the advocacy will help communities to see the value of the elderly and address abuse challenges they face from caregivers and society.
According to Kinuthia, there is a Bill that is now coming to define the space of older persons in the country.
He also emphasized the need for older persons to access opportunities being offered by the government in various fields, as most of them are highly educated.
During the symposium, the ministry organized a weeklong activity, visiting vulnerable older persons in institutions and households, and donating essential items, including blankets, clothing, materials, food, and protective gear against COVID-19.
