Majority of Ugandan Elderly Lack Social Security and Health Insurance

Uganda’s aging population is facing significant challenges, with a vast majority lacking essential social security nets and health insurance. Minister of State for Older Persons, Jacqueline Mbabazi, revealed that only about seven percent of older Ugandans benefit from formal social security programs.

This leaves the remaining 93% reliant on informal income sources and the support of family members. The situation is compounded by the fact that 99% of older persons have no health insurance, despite spending a substantial portion of their income on medical care, often exceeding 30 percent.

With Uganda’s population of individuals aged 60 and above standing at approximately 2.3 million and projected to increase, these issues are becoming more pressing. Many elderly individuals are burdened with supporting not only themselves but also their children and grandchildren, further straining their limited financial resources.

To address this, the government is working to enhance care and support systems. The Parish Development Model (PDM) has allocated 10 percent of its funds to support older persons, though uptake has been low, indicating accessibility challenges.

The minister emphasized the need for collective responsibility, urging families to actively care for their aging relatives. She also called for stronger measures against the neglect and violence targeting older persons, particularly concerning land disputes, and encouraged law enforcement to provide robust protection.

Mbabazi also challenged the media to promote positive perceptions of aging and to highlight the contributions of older Ugandans, who remain active as farmers, entrepreneurs, and caregivers, rather than solely viewing them as recipients of aid.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/374409/most-older-ugandans-lack-social-security-health-insurance