society 5 October 2026 Nile Post
Uganda's Elderly Grapple with Loneliness and Poverty Amidst Calls for Enhanced Support
Uganda's aging population, comprising approximately 2.3 million individuals, faces significant challenges including social isolation, economic hardship, and limited healthcare access. Community leaders are urging for greater family and societal support to ensure dignified aging for this demographic. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/375517/elderly-ugandans-struggle-with-loneliness-poverty-as-calls-grow-for-more-support
Uganda’s growing population of seniors, now numbering around 2.3 million or 5% of the national populace, is confronting a myriad of difficulties. These include pervasive loneliness, severe economic struggles, inadequate nutrition, and restricted access to essential healthcare services.
These pressing concerns were brought to the forefront during a community gathering in Lweza, Makindye-Ssabagabo, organized to mark the International Day of Older Persons. The event convened older adults, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and various organizations dedicated to supporting the elderly.
Discussions at the event emphasized the critical need to foster health, social engagement, and economic well-being among older Ugandans, enabling them to remain active and connected within their communities. Rose Kiwanuka of the Lweza Compassionate Community Programme encouraged seniors to actively manage their health, advocating for balanced diets, outdoor activities, and sustained social interaction over isolation.
Financial instability was also a key issue raised, with many older individuals facing limited income sources and vulnerability to exploitation or property disputes. Former Katikkiro of Buganda, John Baptist Walusimbi, proposed the formation of groups and engagement in income-generating activities like poultry keeping, suggesting that collective efforts can bolster livelihoods and combat isolation.
Mark Mwesigwa from the Palliative Care Association of Uganda stressed the importance of intergenerational connection, highlighting the mutual benefits of knowledge exchange between younger and older populations. He cautioned against societal and technological shifts widening the generational divide.
The gathering concluded with a call for a multifaceted approach to supporting the elderly, involving not just the government but also families, communities, healthcare providers, civil society, and younger generations. Key recommendations included strengthening social ties, improving healthcare access, providing suitable economic opportunities, and enhancing protection against abuse.