The Togolese government marked the International Day of Older Persons on October 20, 2026, at the permanent center for natural disaster victims in Logopé, Agoè-Nyivé1 commune. The celebration, themed "Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Long Lives" internationally and "Aging in Good Health: Precautions to Take" nationally, aimed to provide social actions for vulnerable seniors and promote health prevention measures from a young age.
The event featured free medical consultations and the distribution of humanitarian kits to older persons. Hundreds of people benefited from health check-ups, screenings for age-related diseases, and prevention advice. The kits included food and non-food items. The national theme emphasizes that longevity requires daily precautions, a balanced diet, and community support.
Minister of Solidarity, Gender, Family, and Child Protection, Martine Moni Sankaredja-Sinandja, highlighted the government's commitment to not leaving any older person behind. She emphasized the importance of expressing gratitude to older persons for their contributions to the country's development, social values, and cultural transmission.
The Minister acknowledged the President of the Council's humanistic vision and attention to vulnerable groups, which has significantly improved the national social protection system. She also recognized the need for continuous adaptation of health systems, social protection, and community care to address the challenges of an aging population.
UNFPA Representative-resident in Togo, Elise Kakam, stated that the international and national themes align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 3. She emphasized the need for a paradigm shift to address the challenges of an aging population and to ensure that old age is synonymous with dignity, fulfillment, and inclusion.
Kakam also highlighted the importance of breaking down age-related stereotypes and recognizing the value of older persons' skills and traditional knowledge. She stressed that older persons are not a burden but an essential part of a nation's human capital.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the free medical consultations and humanitarian kits, which will help alleviate age-related health issues and provide nutritional support. The celebration demonstrated the government's commitment to addressing the challenges of longevity and promoting the well-being of older persons in Togo.
Key points
- The Togolese government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the challenges of longevity and promoting the well-being of older persons.
- The International Day of Older Persons was celebrated with free medical consultations and the distribution of humanitarian kits to vulnerable seniors.
- The event aimed to promote health prevention measures and recognize the value of older persons' contributions to society.
