Suqoon founder Shakira has hailed the 2026 International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) celebrations as a significant milestone for Kenya following the country’s first conference dedicated to older persons.
Shakira commended the organising committee, drawn from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Health, for bringing the two ministries together to provide a platform for discussing issues affecting older persons.
She also welcomed plans to conduct research on older persons, saying the data would help inform programmes and policies tailored to their needs.
The conference brought together about 300 older persons from different counties, giving them an opportunity to share their experiences and participate in discussions on issues affecting their lives.
Key areas discussed included the silver economy, Inua Jamii, legislation, healthcare, healthy ageing and dementia.
Shakira said the celebrations also featured a successful pre-scientific conference and will culminate in an intergenerational village supported by various partners.
The initiative will provide a platform for intergenerational dialogue and offer services including a medical camp, barazas, a legal desk and information on insurance and other services available to older persons.
She also called for greater community support for older persons, particularly as Kenya prepares for possible El Niño-related weather challenges.
Shakira urged families and communities to identify older persons who may require assistance, especially those living alone or unable to leave their homes during emergencies.
She noted that chiefs, community health promoters, county governments and other partners are available to support vulnerable older persons, while commending the Government for recognising the need to address the needs of vulnerable communities.
Shakira said the success of the 2026 IDOP celebrations underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the Government, communities, partners and older persons in building a society where ageing is supported with dignity, inclusion and care.
