Older persons from across the country have called for stronger laws, better access to services and greater involvement in decisions affecting their lives.
The call was made during Kenya’s first national conference for older persons held as part of the 2026 International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) celebrations.
About 300 older persons from different counties attended the Nairobi conference, which brought together government officials, health workers, caregivers and other stakeholders to discuss issues affecting the elderly.
Shakira, who spoke during the event, said the conference had given older persons an opportunity to share their experiences and raise concerns affecting them.
She also welcomed the collaboration between the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Health in organising the conference, saying the partnership was important as Kenya continues to deal with the needs of an ageing population.
Shakira called for the planned research on older persons to be carried out, saying reliable data would help the government understand their needs and come up with programmes that address the challenges they face.
The conference discussed several issues, including healthcare, the silver economy, the Inua Jamii programme, legislation and the rights of older persons.
Healthcare was also discussed during a scientific meeting held ahead of the conference, with participants looking at healthy ageing, dementia and other health concerns affecting older people.
The IDOP celebrations will also feature an intergenerational village aimed at bringing older and younger people together.
The programme will include community barazas, a medical camp and a legal desk where older persons can seek advice on legal matters. Participants will also get information on insurance and other support services.
Concerns over El Niño rains
Organisers also raised concerns about the safety of older persons during the expected El Niño rains.
They noted that some elderly people live alone and may struggle to leave their homes or access help during emergencies.
Shakira urged families and communities to identify older people who may need assistance and make arrangements to support them before and during emergencies.
She said chiefs, community health promoters, county governments and other local partners could help ensure older persons are not left behind during emergencies.
Calls for Older Persons Act
The conference also renewed calls for the enactment of an Older Persons Act to provide a specific legal framework for protecting the rights and welfare of the elderly.
Shakira said the Social Protection Act, 2025, had strengthened support for vulnerable groups, while the Disabilities Act had also provided protection for vulnerable members of society.
However, she said older persons needed a law specifically focused on their rights, independence and participation in decisions affecting their lives.
Participants also called for greater recognition and support for caregivers.
They said the proposed law should provide for caregiver training, psychosocial support, respite care, capacity building and social protection.
They further called for institutions caring for older persons to receive technical and financial support to improve the services they provide.
As preparations begin for the 2027 IDOP conference, organisers proposed an assessment of government ministries and departments to establish the services, resources and opportunities currently available to older persons.
The assessment would also identify areas where more government agencies could be involved in addressing issues affecting Kenya’s ageing population.
