On October 3, 2026, Minister of Social Affairs, Armande Longo-Moulengui, visited the National Center for Gerontology and Geriatrics in Melen, Libreville, as part of the first National Day of Retirees and Elderly Persons (JNRPA) celebrations. The center, which has a capacity for 40 residents, currently houses 19 elderly individuals. During her visit, Minister Longo-Moulengui donated essential items, including medicine, food kits, diapers, and medical equipment.
The center faces significant challenges, including logistical, equipment, and food shortages. The management took the opportunity to brief the minister on the current state of the facility and the care provided to its residents. They emphasized the importance of family involvement in supporting elderly individuals. The center's staff encouraged families to consider keeping their elderly relatives at home, where possible, and only seek institutional care when necessary.
Minister Longo-Moulengui's visit was not an isolated event. On the first day of the JNRPA celebrations, Health Minister, Professor Elsa Nkana Joséphine Ayo-Bivigou, also visited the center. These visits demonstrate the government's commitment to supporting elderly citizens. The JNRPA celebrations aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by retirees and elderly persons, as well as promote solidarity and support for this demographic.
The National Center for Gerontology and Geriatrics plays a vital role in caring for Gabon's elderly population. Its staff provides essential services, including medical care and social support. However, the center's management highlighted the need for increased support from families and the community. They stressed that institutional care should only be sought when necessary, and that families should be involved in the care and support of their elderly relatives.
The first National Day of Retirees and Elderly Persons was marked by various events, including medical outreach programs and visits to elderly care centers. These initiatives aimed to promote the well-being and dignity of elderly citizens. The celebrations also provided an opportunity for the government to engage with retirees and elderly persons, and to raise awareness about their challenges and needs.
The visit by Minister Longo-Moulengui and the donation of essential items demonstrate the government's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. The minister's engagement with the center's management and residents highlights the importance of collaboration between the government, families, and care institutions in ensuring the well-being of elderly citizens.
The National Day of Retirees and Elderly Persons serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting solidarity and support for elderly citizens. The celebrations and visits by government officials have raised awareness about the challenges faced by this demographic and have highlighted the need for increased support and care.
Key points
- The Gabonese government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting elderly citizens through initiatives such as the National Day of Retirees and Elderly Persons.
