Malawi Network of Older Persons’ Organisations (MANEPO) has stressed that addressing entrenched myths and stereotypes remains critical when it comes to elderly affairs.
The network has said this in its statement congratulating President Dr Lazarus Chakwera for assenting to the Older Persons’ Bill 2024.
“His Excellency’s action demonstrates, beyond measure, his government’s commitment towards the creation of Malawi wokomera tonse. Bravo, Bwana President,” the statement reads, signed by MANEPO Executive Director, Andrew Kavala.
The grouping further highlights the fact that Dr Chakwera was among the first four Heads of State in Africa to ratify the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights on the Rights of Older Persons in Africa.
“Let us march forward, united in our resolve to build a society that cherishes and protects its senior citizens with dignity and respect,” adds Kavala.
According to MANEPO, in 2022 alone, 15 elderly persons were killed while many were abused in Malawi over witchcraft suspicion.
In 2023, a total of 25 elderly people lost their lives in similar circumstances.
