SIAYA: Elders in Siaya are urging the government to increase the monthly stipend they receive under the Inua Jamii program to better meet their basic needs.

Through George Odhiambo Were, the chairman of the Siaya County Older Persons Organization (SCOPO), the elders also called for new legislation to ensure their protection.

Speaking during this year’s International Day for Older Persons at Bar Ogong’o Chief’s Camp in South East Alego ward, Siaya, Odhiambo lamented that the lack of proper legislation leaves older persons inadequately cared for.

The celebrations were organized by Help Age International and the Kenya Society for People Living with AIDS (KESPA).

Odhiambo emphasized that old age comes with challenges such as illnesses that require proper arrangements and support.

He urged the government to increase the monthly stipend from the current KSh 2,000, which he said is insufficient.

Most older persons spend up to half of this amount on transport to access the funds, leaving them with very little for their needs.

South East Alego Member of the County Assembly, Mercedes Scholastica Madowo, also addressed the occasion, urging the government to focus on ensuring the security of older persons.

She noted a rise in attacks on the elderly, stressing the need for deliberate government actions to protect them. Madowo supported calls for an increased stipend and the expansion of the program to include those currently not benefiting.

Siaya Deputy County Commissioner, Robert Ng’etich, who was the chief guest at the celebrations, challenged society to respect elders.

Ng’etich reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of older persons through better policies.

He cited initiatives like the Social Health Authority and the Social Health Insurance Fund as steps the government is taking to ensure proper healthcare for the elderly.

Ng’etich encouraged older persons to register for the new health insurance scheme, which offers better benefits than its predecessor. While urging the elders to appreciate the current monthly stipends, he promised to forward their requests for a review to the appropriate authorities.