Bungoma: The government is working on the Older Persons Bill 2025 to ensure the rights of senior citizens are protected against abuse and discrimination in society. Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs PS Joseph Motari stated that the bill will establish policies that promote inclusion and the well-being of older persons, who play a vital role in the national heritage.
According to Kenya News Agency, Motari conveyed this in a speech delivered on his behalf by Esther Maina, Secretary Administration at the State Department for Social Protection, during an event marking the United Nations International Day for Older Persons in Musese, Bungoma Central Sub-County.
The PS emphasized collaboration with partners to integrate ageing into the national development agenda, ensuring that older persons are active participants in policy-making rather than mere recipients of care. Motari highlighted the government's responsibility to uphold the dignity, security, and rights of older persons, noting the increase in beneficiaries of the Inua Jamii cash transfer fund from 700,000 in 2022 to 1.1 million by August this year.
Bungoma governor Kenneth Lusaka, speaking at the same event, noted that 37,123 local senior citizens received Sh890 million annually through the Inua Jamii programme, significantly enhancing their livelihoods. Lusaka expressed gratitude to the national government for the initiative and mentioned that an additional 3,000 older persons benefited from the Social Health Authority, with the county government working to expand healthcare services.
He urged residents to care for the older population, protect them from abuse, and utilize their wisdom for societal moral growth. County Commissioner Thomas Sankei praised the older citizens for their involvement and guidance in various government committees.