Advancing Dignity for Older Persons in Kisumu County

October 2026 | Ethel Foundation for the Aged

A shared call for stronger care and support

On 1 October 2026, more than 700 older persons and stakeholders gathered at Kombewa CDF Hall in Seme Sub-County, Kisumu County, for the International Day of Older Persons commemoration.

Guided by the theme “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems,” the event highlighted the need for stronger healthcare, social protection, community support and protection from abuse and neglect.

Ethel Foundation for the Aged participated among the supporting partners.

Key messages from the commemoration

• Protecting rights: Older persons must be able to report abuse, neglect and injustice through appropriate channels and receive effective protection.
• Strengthening care: Families, communities and institutions need coordinated approaches to supporting older persons, particularly those experiencing isolation or vulnerability.
• Recognizing contributions: Older persons remain important custodians of cultural heritage, knowledge and community values.
• Turning dialogue into action: The priorities raised during the event require continued collaboration, practical interventions and institutional follow-through.

Why this matters to EFA

The discussions reinforce the importance of EFA’s integrated approach to dignified ageing, which brings together healthcare and nutrition, livelihoods, social protection, advocacy and community-based support.

Our commitment is to promote a society in which older persons are respected as rights holders and active members of their communities.

Our call to partners

We invite government institutions, development partners, community organizations, businesses and individuals to continue working together to improve the wellbeing, protection and inclusion of older persons.

Ageing with dignity is a shared responsibility. Let us turn recognition into lasting action.

Website: www.ethelfoundation.or.ke

Email: info@ethelfoundation.or.ke

Telephone: 0114305976

Follow us: @EthelFoundation