Uganda will join the rest of the world on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP), with government pledging renewed efforts to improve income security, dignity and social protection for senior citizens.
Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala on Monday, Minister of State for Elderly Affairs Hon. Gidudu Mafwabi Dominic announced that the national celebrations will be held at St. John Secondary School in Wakitaka, Jinja City, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni expected to preside over the event.
This year’s theme “Enhanced Household Incomes: A Key to Dignity and Respect for Older Persons” highlights the urgent need to address economic challenges faced by Uganda’s elderly population, currently estimated at 2.3 million, or 5% of the population.
The Minister reported significant progress under various social protection initiatives:
- Senior Citizens Grant (SAGE): 306,759 beneficiaries currently receive UGX 25,000 monthly (paid quarterly).
- Special Enterprise Grant for Older Persons (SEGOP): 13,449 elderly persons supported across 181 local governments.
- Inclusion in Parish Development Model: 3% of PDM beneficiaries are now older persons.
- Cash Transfers for Elderly Refugees: Programme rolled out in Lobule (Koboko) and Bidibidi (Yumbe) settlements.
However, Hon. Gidudu admitted that several challenges persist:
- SAGE arrears of Shs 20.6 billion and funding gaps under SEGOP and Older Persons Councils.
- High eligibility age of 80 years and low grant value, both under review.
- Lack of National IDs hindering access to services.
- Limited access to PDM and Emyooga funds, prompting proposals for a dedicated UGX 10 million per parish for elderly enterprises.
He also revealed plans to expand recognition of eminent senior citizens, secure free radio airtime for Older Persons Councils, and fast-track amendments to the Older Persons Act.
The minister appealed to all older persons to attend the celebrations or follow the event via radio and television, adding that President Museveni will issue a “fundamental message to senior citizens” during the ceremony.
Activities lined up for the day include exhibitions, SAGE payment demonstrations, a health camp, a march by older persons, and the launch of a toll-free helpline for reporting abuse.
“Let us recommit to ensuring that no older person is left behind,” Hon. Gidudu said, urging compassion, accountability, and inclusivity in service delivery.
