Uganda: Elderly Face Rising Abuse As Uganda Prepares to Mark Awareness Day
As Uganda gears up to commemorate the International Day of Awareness on Elder Abuse on June 20, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has raised alarm over the growing number of abuse cases targeting older persons, especially within their own families.
Speaking to journalists at the Uganda Media Centre, the State Minister for Elderly Affairs, Gidudu Dominic Mafwabi, expressed deep concern over the increasing rates of mistreatment, neglect, and exploitation of the elderly particularly men aged between 60 and 69, and women above 70 years.
He noted that much of this abuse is occurring in domestic settings, with family members, including children and grandchildren, being the primary perpetrators.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) 2021 report, an alarming 84 percent of older persons face abuse in their own homes.
The report reveals that 31 percent of the cases are perpetrated by relatives other than children, while 28 percent of the abuse is directly inflicted by the victims’ own children.
These acts range from emotional mistreatment and neglect to more severe offenses such as property grabbing and forced eviction–often driven by land disputes, inheritance wrangles, and societal indifference.
The Minister emphasised that elder abuse is a widespread yet hidden issue that continues to be tolerated in many communities.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to look out for the safety of older persons and create awareness to enable them to age with dignity. This is the way for everyone,” Gidudu said.
He urged the public to end all forms of abuse and discrimination against older persons and instead promote a culture of inclusion, respect, and protection of their rights. The call to action is part of broader efforts to sensitise Ugandans ahead of the national commemoration, which will be held at the KCCA Mayor’s Gardens in Kampala.
This year, Uganda will observe the awareness day under the theme “Strengthening Coordination to End Elder Abuse.” The international date for the day is June 15, but Uganda rescheduled the event to June 20 due to the recent elections of elderly representatives.
Data further indicates that abuse is gendered and age-specific. UBOS reports that 59 percent of men are responsible for abusing older women aged 60-69, while women aged 70 and above tend to suffer abuse primarily at the hands of other females. Alarmingly, 38 percent of older women reported experiencing abuse at least once in the past year, and 30 percent reported being abused three to five times within the same period.
As the country prepares for the June 20 commemoration, authorities are calling for stronger coordination among stakeholders, including families, local leaders, and law enforcement agencies, to fight against all forms of elder abuse and ensure Uganda’s seniors live in safety and dignity.
By Nile Post.
