Fredrick Okwayo, Population Data Adviser
UNFPA East and Southern Africa
In East and Southern Africa, we have a saying, “An elder sitting down sees farther than a young person standing on a hill,” which reminds us of the deep wisdom of the elders we all can learn from.
Today is the International Day of Older Persons with the theme “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide.” This is an opportunity for us to celebrate the lives of older people and reflect on how we can build communities that honor and support them.
In many of our cultures, older persons hold a revered place, serving as the keepers of wisdom, culture, and traditions. They are the leaders in our communities, the caregivers for grandchildren, and the bridge between generations.
The older population is growing rapidly in East and Southern Africa. Thanks to advances in health care, poverty reduction, and social development, people are living longer, healthier lives.
By 2050, the number of people aged 60 and older will triple, from 34.2 million today to over 92 million. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities. While the growing older population requires us to strengthen care systems, it also gives us a chance to tap into their contribution to society. In fact, globally, people aged 50 and over already drive more than a third of the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with expectations of growth.
Investment and intergenerational solidarity
Older persons are vital contributors to the social and economic development of their communities. In our region, older persons are in agriculture, small businesses, and community leadership. They are often the backbone of families, particularly in areas where migration or economic hardships have left younger generations seeking opportunities elsewhere. Their wisdom, experience, and work ethic are assets for development.
There is a need to invest in robust care and support systems, which includes access to quality healthcare, social protection, and opportunities for lifelong learning and engagement. A solid care infrastructure not only benefits older persons but also creates jobs, fosters economic growth, and strengthens social cohesion.
In East and Southern Africa, the healthcare needs of older persons are growing, particularly with the rise of non-communicable diseases, disabilities, and the lingering impacts of HIV. Moreover, Many older persons have limited mobility, increasing their risks before, during, and after an extreme weather event. Ageing and some medications can change the body's ability to respond to heat. This puts older persons more at risk for heat illnesses and at times death as the result of changing climatic conditions.
Many older people, especially in rural areas, face barriers to accessing the care they need. The burden often falls on family members, particularly women, who serve as unpaid caregivers. Older women, in particular, face unique challenges as they tend to live longer but often have fewer economic resources due to gender inequalities in education, employment, and income generation. Addressing these inequalities, including access to sexual reproductive health services is key to ensuring that all older persons can age with dignity and security. By investing in community-based health care systems, we can ensure that older persons receive the dignified care they deserve while also creating new economic opportunities.
In addition, one of the most powerful ways to support older persons is by fostering intergenerational solidarity. Societies function best when people of all ages support one another. Older persons offer wisdom, experience, and stability, while younger generations bring energy, innovation, and fresh perspectives. Together, they form a dynamic partnership that can drive social progress.
A future of possibilities
As we look to the future, we need to work together to create inclusive social protection systems that safeguard the rights and dignity of older persons. This means ensuring healthcare and long-term care options are accessible. It also requires us to challenge the ageist attitudes that persist in society.
On this special day, please join UNFPA to celebrate the lives, contributions, and potential of older persons across East and Southern Africa to ensure a better future for older people. The wisdom of our elders is a gift, and when we honor and support them, we all benefit.
