The International Day for older persons is set to be celebrated in Uganda on October 1st at the Saza Ground, in Kiboga District.
The Minister of State for Gender and Culture Hon Peace Mutuuzo said the older persons’ day celebrations are held to promote the understanding of older person’s issues, mobilize support for promoting their dignity and wellbeing in social-economic, political and cultural sphere.
“This day is also set aside to recognize their contributions towards National Development. We also take stock of what has been achieved during the year, challenges encountered and lay out strategies to over come them”.
The theme for is year’s celebrations is “Stepping into the Future; Tapping the talents, contributions and participation of older persons in Society.”
“This year’s theme emphasizes the pathways that support the utilization of the talent of older persons, their continued active participation and contributions to development initiative,” Mutuuzo told press in Kampala.
Kiboga District is one of the beneficiaries of the Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment (SAGE) program which provides grants to older persons.
She revealed that government has so far reached out to more than 4,631 people in 6 sub counties, two town councils, 40 parishes and 236 villages respectively.
The celebrations will include a health camp, a football match between old persons and youths as well as radio and Television shows to raise awareness on issues that affect the old.