Kisumu IDOP 2026: Advancing Dignified Ageing | EFA
Moving Beyond Recognition to Action
Dignified ageing requires more than celebrating older persons. It requires healthcare systems that respond to their needs, effective social protection, protection from abuse and neglect, and communities that recognize their contributions and uphold their rights.
These priorities were central to the Kisumu County commemoration of the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP), held on 1 October 2026 at Kombewa CDF Hall in Seme Sub-County.
Organized under the theme “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems,” the event brought together more than 700 older persons, government representatives, community leaders, development partners and other stakeholders.
Ethel Foundation for the Aged (EFA) participated among the organizations supporting the commemoration.
Recognizing Older Persons as Custodians of Culture
The event celebrated the contributions of older persons to families and communities, including their role in preserving cultural heritage and passing knowledge to younger generations.
Performances by indigenous Luo artists Nyagosito and George Kembo added a cultural dimension to the commemoration. Grooming and beauty therapy services provided by Seme Technical Training College also demonstrated how local institutions can contribute to the comfort and wellbeing of older persons.
These activities highlighted an important principle: older persons should be recognized not only for their needs but also for their knowledge, identity, experience and continuing contribution to society.
Strengthening Protection and Access to Justice
Discussions during the commemoration highlighted concerns about abuse, violence, neglect, abandonment and the vulnerability of older persons without adequate family support.
Sub-County Leader of Elders Samuel Ochieng called for consideration of a rescue centre in Seme Sub-County to provide refuge and support to older persons experiencing neglect, abuse or abandonment.
Deputy County Commissioner Elizabeth Owendi urged community members to report abuse and injustice through the appropriate authorities rather than resorting to informal proceedings that may undermine justice.
These messages underscore the importance of accessible reporting mechanisms, effective safeguarding and coordinated responses that protect the rights and dignity of older persons.
Why Care and Support Systems Matter
Chief Guest Okach Achuotho called for a comprehensive national policy for older persons, emphasizing specialized healthcare, family protection, social support and economic empowerment.
His remarks also highlighted the need to support older persons who are isolated, economically disadvantaged or without adequate family support.
For EFA, these priorities align with the importance of advancing approaches to ageing that combine health and nutrition, social protection, livelihoods, advocacy and community-based support.
No older person should be excluded from essential services or left without assistance simply because family and community support structures are insufficient.
Partnerships for Sustainable Change
The commemoration demonstrated the contribution of collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, community groups, technical training institutions and other partners.
EFA recognizes that sustainable improvements in older persons’ wellbeing require continued cooperation and practical follow-through beyond individual events.
This means strengthening local support systems, promoting awareness of rights, supporting meaningful participation and ensuring that the concerns raised by older persons inform decisions and interventions.
The Work Continues
The Kisumu County commemoration provided a platform to recognize older persons and highlight priorities for stronger care, protection and inclusion.
The next step is to sustain the momentum through practical action, stronger institutional coordination and continued attention to the lived experiences of older persons.
At Ethel Foundation for the Aged, our vision is a society where every older person leads a dignified life, free from want, abuse, neglect and discrimination, in accordance with Catholic Social Teaching.
Ageing with dignity is a shared responsibility. The true measure of our commitment is the extent to which older persons experience respect, security, care and inclusion in their everyday lives.
Learn more about EFA’s work: https://ethelfoundation.or.ke
