A Joint Call for an Inclusive and Supportive Environment for Older Persons in Malawi

Lilongwe, October 1, 2024 – Malawians have been called to action to work together to create a conducive environment where older persons can thrive, live with dignity, respect, and enjoy their rights, commended the Parliament for passing the Older Persons Act, 2024, which came into force on September 16, 2024

Today, Malawi joins the rest of the world commemorating the International Day of Older Persons, a day dedicated to honouring the invaluable contributions of older individuals in our communities and reaffirming our commitment to their rights and dignity.

In a joint statement signed by Andrew Kavala, Executive Director, MANEPO and Chikondi Chijozi the Chairperson for the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHCR) highlighted this year’s theme, “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide,” stressing the critical need for inclusive and supportive environments for older individuals.

They acknowledge the unique challenges faced by older individuals in Malawi, including physical and psychological abuse, poverty, discrimination, and limited access to healthcare and social support services.

“We urged the government, civil society organizations, and citizens to adhere to the provisions of the law and collaborate in strengthening care and support systems for older persons like investments in programs and services that address the needs of older individuals, such as affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and social support networks,” reads the joint communique.

This piece of legislation is expected to provide a legislative and policy framework to address the challenges faced by older persons in the country.

Additionally, the two organizations called upon all stakeholders to promote inclusivity by ensuring that older persons are actively involved in decision-making processes and have equal access to opportunities, stressed the importance of raising awareness about age-based discrimination and fostering respect for all ages.

“As Malawi prepares for the 2025 general elections, we urged the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and all stakeholders to ensure that the priorities of older persons are adequately addressed, we emphasize that older persons must be included in the electoral process, both as voters and candidates, and that their voices must be heard and their rights protected,” it conclude.