The national government has increased the number of elderly people and persons with severe disabilities receiving cash transfers in Turkana County from 20,000 to 26,000.

The County Coordinator for the Directorate of Social Development James Kiptun announced the expansion in Lodwar, while marking the International Day of Older Persons.

He thanked the head of state for heeding calls by the county leadership to increase the number of beneficiaries.

“Starting this financial year 2026/27, the State Department for Social Protection will expand the number of beneficiaries in Turkana county from 20,000 to 26,000 following requests by the county leadership to the president,” said Kiptun.

Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus said the national and county governments have expanded the social protection framework to allow older persons to live in dignity.

He added that beyond expanding the social protection policy, the county government working out on modalities for providing housing for the elderly.

“Today we celebrate the older persons for their resilience, sacrifices and everyday struggle that have made us who we are,” said Dr. Erus, adding, “We don’t just want to give them hope, but to also the confidence that all they have invested in us is not going to be in vain.”

Echamiato, an NGO working with older persons on livelihood and social protection, was also represented at the event.

The NGO programme lead, Rebecca Lomalia called for the inclusion of older persons in decision-making processes.

“On this big day we call for inter-generational inclusion to minimize loneliness among older persons, inclusion would help lengthen the lives of older persons and reduce depression,” she said.

Lomalia also urged health sector partners to strengthen their systems to accommodate older persons.

“There is a need to ensure that older persons access healthcare services in dignity,” she said.

The international Day of Older Persons is celebrated globally and in Kenya every October 1 to honour the contribution of senior citizens and address age related challenges.

by Peter Gitonga