The Trans Nzoia County Department of Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture, and Tourism received a major boost on Thursday when Pro-Ageing, a renowned organization advocating for the rights and well-being of senior citizens, announced a partnership to support the Bahati Home for the Elderly. 

Pro-Ageing CEO and Founder Lucy Mworia praised the county government’s efforts in caring for its senior citizens, a demographic often neglected in other parts of Kenya. “Among the 47 counties I have visited, Trans Nzoia County is doing a great job in ensuring the needs of the elderly are taken care of,” Mworia said. “Many counties have completely forgotten about this group of people.”

Mworia expressed concern over the plight of elderly Kenyans, many of whom are languishing in poverty due to neglect and the rising cost of living. She called on both the national and county governments to increase support for this vulnerable population. “The national government gives out funds for the elderly every month, but it’s not enough,” Mworia said. “The cost of living is high, and the funds can barely sustain an elderly person for a month. We need to increase these funds, if not every month, then at least every quarter.”

The CEO highlighted the increasing healthcare needs of the elderly, with many suffering from non-communicable diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. She urged the government to reevaluate its support for this age group.

Trans Nzoia County Gender Director Robert Kibii reiterated the department’s commitment to improving the lives of the 12 elderly residents at the Bahati Home. The county is currently renovating the home and constructing a perimeter wall for security. Kibii also announced plans to develop a Trans Nzoia County Elderly Person Policy to guide the home’s operations and secure budgetary allocations. “We are also providing the home with rations, employing staff to care for the residents, and have partnered with well-wishers like Pro-Ageing for additional support,” Kibii said.

Mworia commended Governor George Natembeya’s administration for the Nate Care Medical cover, which provides healthcare for the elderly and vulnerable. Both organizations called on the public to support the Bahati Home for the Elderly through donations, volunteer work, or simply visiting the residents.

The partnership between Pro-Ageing and Trans Nzoia County is a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of the elderly population in the region. The support and resources provided by this collaboration will enhance the quality of life for the residents of the Bahati Home and set a precedent for other counties to follow.