By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
In a bid to address the declining respect for elders in Uganda, the government is preparing to introduce legislation aimed at restoring traditional values and ensuring the dignity of older persons. This initiative was announced by Dominic Mafwabi Gidudu, Minister of State for Older Persons, during a press briefing ahead of the International Day for Older Persons, set to be commemorated on October 1, 2024, at Liberation Square in Masaka.President Museveni is expected to be the chief guest.
. Minister Gidudu expressed concerns that the increasing influence of Western culture has eroded the values that once upheld the guidance and wisdom of elders in Ugandan society. He noted that many young people no longer appreciate the role of elders, leading to a growing disconnect between generations.
“The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development is working closely with the Attorney General to strengthen the Older Persons Bill. This will help restore values and respect for elders, particularly in service delivery and other aspects of society,” said Gidudu.
Rising Abuse Against Elders
The minister also highlighted alarming statistics regarding the abuse of older persons. According to government data, 86% of elderly Ugandans experience neglect and isolation by their caregivers, while 44.7% are victims of domestic violence. Additionally, 49% of older persons suffer from psychological abuse, including threats, humiliation, and verbal or nonverbal mistreatment. Other forms of abuse according to the government include financial, domestic and sexual abuse against older people.
Gidudu emphasized that this rise in abuse is largely driven by the influence of Western values, which have led younger generations to disregard the traditional wisdom and guidance of their elders. He urged young people to take better care of their parents and elders, recognizing their vital contributions to national development.
The Role of Elders in Ugandan Society
Uganda’s elders have historically played a key role in shaping communities, offering wisdom and guidance based on years of experience. However, as Western cultural norms have spread, traditional values emphasizing respect for elders have weakened, contributing to the abuse and marginalization of older persons.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), individuals aged 60 years and above make up 5% of the country’s total population, approximately 2.3 million people out of a total population of 46 million, as reported in the June 2024 Uganda Population and Housing Census.
As Uganda prepares to celebrate the International Day for Older Persons, the government hopes that the proposed law will help curb the mistreatment of elders and restore respect and dignity to this important segment of society.
