Committee established to stop killing of elderly in Kilifi

Kilifi County government has partnered with non-state actors to stop brutal killings and harassment of elderly people accused of witchcraft.

Cases of the killings of the elderly are on the rise in Kilifi, with data from a catholic organization, Haki Yetu, showing that between 2020 and May 2022, there were 138 witchcraft-related murders.

County officials and non-state actors say the killings have been exacerbated by deep-rooted cultural beliefs, land-related violence, and a lack of safe spaces for victims to report abuse.

Governor Gideon Mung’aro’s administration has announced the establishment of an elderly persons steering committee to combat abuse and enhance the rights of the elderly in society.

The County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Culture and Social Services, Ms Ruth Dama, said that the elderly would be mapped out, screened, and given psycho-social and economic support by the county.

She said the multi-sectoral committee will address the rising incidents of exploitation, neglect, and abuse faced by older individuals, particularly those aged sixty and above. 

“Non-state actors like the Poverty Eradication and Sustainable Action Aid (PESAID) will be included in the committee,” said Dama ahead of the International Day for the Elderly Persons celebration on October 1.

The committee has representatives from various government agencies, civil society organizations, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), and the Directorate of Social Development.

 It will be led by the Kilifi County Commissioner, with key roles assigned to other local leaders and organizations. 

Ms Dama said the committee’s mission focuses on empowering older persons by improving their access to essential services and promoting their active participation in community affairs.

Key objectives include raising public awareness of elderly rights, enhancing service coordination, and strengthening abuse prevention mechanisms, she said. 

"Through this committee, we aim to ensure that older persons live with dignity and respect, free from abuse," said Dama, adding that, the collaborative approach will help the county to tackle the systemic issues that have long plagued our elderly population. 

The committee will meet quarterly to review progress and strategize on effective intervention, and it will prioritize evidence-based research to inform policy changes and enhance protection measures. 

Kilifi County's commitment to safeguarding its elderly citizens marks a crucial step toward building a more inclusive and respectful society where the rights of all members, regardless of age, are upheld.