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Kenyan campaigners urge greater participation of elderly people in civic affairs

Xinhua, May 15, 2016 Adjust font size:

Senior citizens should be involved in processes that foster good governance, patriotism and inclusive development, Kenyan campaigners said on Saturday during the Global Day of Citizen Action.

Roselyn Kihumba, the head of partner relations at the International Charity, HelpAge International underscored the role of senior citizens in the expansion of democratic space alongside socio-economic renewal in Kenya and the greater eastern African region.

"We need to create space for the aged population to contribute their wealth of expertise in processes that advance our collective good. The role of elderly people in promoting democratic ideals and responsible citizenry cannot be downplayed," Kihumba remarked

Kenyan campaigners, senior citizens and youth groups marked the Global Day of Action in Nairobi where they pledged their contribution towards processes that advance political accountability, economic growth and social renewal.

Kihumba emphasized that enactment of robust policies and legislation, stakeholder engagement alongside public awareness will strengthen the participation of elderly people in civic affairs.

"There is need to mainstream older people in national development policies. We can emulate best practices from elsewhere to ensure senior citizens are part of our national transformation," said Kihumba.

Kenya's population of elderly people aged 60 years and above stood at 4.1 million by 2015 and it is expected to reach 9.4 million by 2050.

Kihumba said that despite rapid economic and social progress, Kenyan senior citizens are still grappling with a host of challenges thanks to absence of safety nets to cushion them from hunger, diseases and neglect.

She urged policymakers to harness the wisdom of elderly citizens while executing programs that advance individual liberties, national cohesion and sustainable development.

Jean Mutugi, a 68 year retired educationist said that senior citizens are keen on lending support to programs that promote national values.

"We can mentor the younger generation to ensure they become responsible citizens whose contribution to our collective welfare is critical,"Mutugi remarked. Endit