Older persons complain to NGEC over delayed funds

Older persons have told the National Gender and Equality Commission of delays in the disbursement of the cash transfer programme for senior citizens. The old men and women made the revelations as they thronged the NGEC stand at Mtsengo Secondary school in Kilifi County during the occasion to mark the International day of older persons.

Under the social protection fund, senior citizens aged over 65 years are entitled to Ksh. 2000 per month released through the local administration. However according to older persons who spoke to NGEC program officers, this money is not reaching them. It also emerged that young people could be taking advantage of the elderly and swindling them off the monthly stipend.

Labour cabinet secretary Kazungu Kambi who spoke during the event warned that anyone found embezzling the funds would be dealt with accordingly. He also cautioned elderly men against using the allowances to lure young girls into early marriages.

The theme of the celebrations dubbed ‘the future we want; what older persons are saying,’ sought to sensitize the community and duty bearers on the need to respect and take care of the elderly persons to ensure they age with grace and enjoy human dignity. NGEC promised to ensure funds meant for the elderly are disbursed on a timely basis and reach deserving recipients

NGEC Staff listen to the elderly in Kilifi