Kilifi County Takes Bold Steps to Protect the Rights and Welfare of the Elderly

Kilifi County has joined forces with the national government and non-state actors to protect the rights and welfare of its elderly citizens.

As the world prepares to celebrate the International Day for the Elderly, Kilifi is making headlines for becoming the first county in Kenya to establish an Elderly Persons Steering Committee aimed at combating abuse and enhancing the dignity of older individuals.

Recent reports indicate that Kilifi County has alarmingly led the nation—and even the world—in incidents of elder abuse, including killings linked to witchcraft allegations.

From 2020 to May 2022, a staggering 138 witchcraft-related murders were recorded, prompting urgent calls for systemic change.

The need for a robust framework to safeguard the elderly has resonated with local residents, who are rallying around efforts to legislate protections.

At the heart of this initiative is Consolata Machuko, the director of the Social Services Department in Kilifi, who has been vocal about the gravity of the situation.

“The abuse and killings of elderly individuals are a serious concern not only locally but globally,” she stated during the launch of the Terms of Reference for the new program.

The Haki Yetu program coordinator, Julias Wanyama, emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that stakeholders are engaging in dialogues with local Members of Parliament and County Assembly members to ensure the passage of legislation aimed at safeguarding the welfare of the elderly.

“This is a critical step toward ensuring that the voices of older persons are heard and that their rights are protected,” Wanyama explained.

Ruth Dama, the County Executive Committee Member for Culture and Social Services, outlined the committee’s comprehensive approach to address the unique challenges faced by the elderly.

This includes mapping out elderly individuals, conducting screenings, and providing essential psychosocial and economic support.

“Our goal is to ensure that elderly persons receive the care and respect they deserve,” she affirmed.

The multi-sectoral committee comprises representatives from various government agencies, civil society organizations, and local stakeholders, including the National Gender and Equality Commission and the Directorate of Social Development.

The committee will be chaired by the County Commissioner and is designed to create a coordinated response to the exploitation, neglect, and abuse faced by older individuals, particularly those aged sixty and above.

With deep-rooted cultural beliefs often perpetuating violence against the elderly, the committee’s mission is critical.

Its objectives include raising public awareness of elderly rights, improving access to essential services, and enhancing preventive measures against abuse.

“Through this committee, we aim to ensure that older persons live with dignity and respect, free from abuse,” said Dama, highlighting the necessity of a collaborative approach to tackle systemic issues affecting the elderly population.

To ensure accountability and continuous improvement, the committee will convene quarterly to review progress, strategize interventions, and prioritize evidence-based research to inform policy changes.

This proactive stance underscores Kilifi County’s commitment to building a more inclusive and respectful society where the rights of all members—regardless of age—are upheld.