In a recent interview, Bernadette Owono Mba, president of the Association Nationale des Retraités du Gabon (ANAREG), highlighted the organization's priorities for Gabon's retirees. She emphasized that defending retirees is not only about defending elderly individuals but also about recognizing the rights of men and women who have contributed to the country's development and deserve to live with dignity in their old age.
One of ANAREG's main concerns is ensuring the regularity and predictability of pensions. Owono Mba stressed that retirees need to know their income and be able to plan their lives. She noted that pension payments are a right, not a favor, and that their regularity is crucial, especially for those with modest incomes who are vulnerable to rising living costs.
ANAREG also advocates for improving access to information and administrative services for elderly individuals and retirees. This includes adapting services to the realities of aging, such as priority lines or counters, more accessible information, and accompaniment in administrative tasks. The organization proposes establishing a dedicated desk or pathway, both physical and digital, to guide retirees on pensions, healthcare coverage, and other recurring administrative tasks.
Owono Mba acknowledged that Gabon faces budget constraints but emphasized that there is room for improvement in the treatment of retirees. She stated that the retirement period should be a time of serenity, but many retirees still face difficulties in their daily lives and administrative tasks. ANAREG's role is to highlight these issues and propose solutions, some of which can be implemented quickly and at a low cost.
The organization is also calling for better access to healthcare and free medical examinations. Owono Mba noted that healthcare needs often increase with age and that a gradual approach to improving access to consultations, medication, and adapted care is necessary. She emphasized that early detection of certain diseases can prevent more costly and heavy-handed interventions later on.
ANAREG's proposals also focus on promoting the value of retirees' experience and skills. Owono Mba argued that retirees still have much to offer, having acquired valuable knowledge and expertise over the years. The organization suggests creating a voluntary database of retirees' competencies to facilitate mentorship, training, and knowledge transfer.
Finally, Owono Mba emphasized that ANAREG's goal is not to oppose generations but to promote intergenerational solidarity. She advocated for a national policy on aging that would address issues such as healthcare, pensions, and social protection, and provide a framework for promoting the rights and contributions of elderly individuals.
Key points
- ANAREG prioritizes regular and predictable pension payments for Gabon's retirees.
- The organization advocates for improved access to information and administrative services for elderly individuals and retirees.
- ANAREG proposes a national policy on aging to address issues such as healthcare, pensions, and social protection.
