Uganda's elderly population to double to 2.5 million by 2040

Sep 28, 2017

Globally, the number of older persons is expected to double, from 841 million in 2013 to over 2 billion by 2050

The population of older persons (60 years and above) will double to 2.5 million by the year 2040, projections by the gender ministry show, highlighting a need for a robust social protection system.

Globally, the number of older persons is expected to double, from 841 million in 2013 to over 2 billion by 2050, during which time it will have exceeded that of children below 14 years.

Ahead of celebrations to mark the International Day of Older Persons on Sunday, the minister of state for gender and culture, Peace Mutuuzo said the Government would ensure older persons are not left behind in the country's development.

She alluded to interventions including the Senior Citizens Grant, older persons (60 years and above) in selected districts who get monthly stipends to improve their living conditions. 

Each of the beneficiaries receives sh25,000 every month (about $8). The scheme was designed to reduce old age poverty by providing a minimum level of income security. 

The pilot phase of the scheme initially covered 15 districts, but has since expanded to cover 47 districts countrywide over the last five years, reaching at least 151,000 households.

This year's national celebrations to mark the International Day of Older Persons will be held at Saza Grounds in Kiboga district under the theme ‘Stepping into the Future: Tapping the Talents, Contributions and Participation of Older Persons in Society.'

Kiboga, the host district is one of the beneficiaries where performance of the pension scheme for the elderly has been ranked highly, according to the gender ministry.

 

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