The Togolese government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the lives of older persons on the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons, celebrated on October 1st. The Minister of Solidarity, Gender, Family, and Child Protection, Martine Moni Sankaredja, called for collective mobilization for healthy and active aging. She highlighted the government's actions to improve the daily lives of older persons, including access to healthcare and social protection.
The International Day of Older Persons was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1990 to promote a better understanding of the challenges related to aging and to combat discrimination against older persons. The day aims to encourage governments and organizations to adopt policies and initiatives that promote the well-being of seniors. The theme of this year's celebration is "The era of longevity: rethinking systems for longer lives."
In Togo, the population of older persons aged 60 and above is 471,951, according to the 2022 census. The government has opted for the national theme "Aging in good health: what precautions?" to raise awareness about the importance of promoting healthy and active aging. The minister emphasized the need to promote preventive behaviors throughout life to achieve healthy and active aging.
The Togolese government has taken several actions to improve the lives of older persons, including the ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights relating to the rights of older persons. The government has also integrated the issue of aging into its social action policy and created the Directorate for Older Persons.
The government has also facilitated access to healthcare for retired civil servants through the National Institute of Health Insurance (INAM) and established the Universal Health Insurance (AMU). Two retirement homes have been built in Lomé and Kara to provide care and support to older persons.
To mark the celebration, the government, with the support of its partners, will provide free medical consultations, distribute food kits, and make cash transfers to 224 older persons. The minister encouraged all stakeholders to continue their engagement to address the challenges related to aging and to seize the opportunities for the country's development.
The government's commitment to improving the lives of older persons is in line with the strategic orientation "Rassembler" of the new 2026-2031 government roadmap. The minister paid tribute to President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé for his constant engagement in promoting policies and programs that favor the well-being of older persons.
Key points
- The Togolese government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the lives of older persons through various actions, including access to healthcare and social protection.
- The government has taken several actions to improve the lives of older persons, including the ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights relating to the rights of older persons.
- The government will provide free medical consultations, distribute food kits, and make cash transfers to 224 older persons to mark the celebration.
