IDOP 20IDOP 2026: Advancing Older Persons’ Rights and Healthy Ageing in Kenya

Ageing Concern Foundation (ACF) joined government representatives, older persons, civil society organisations and other stakeholders at Kenya’s national commemoration of the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) 2026, held from 30 September to 4 October under the theme “Advancing Healthy Ageing and Older Persons’ Rights in Kenya: Coordinated Health, Social Protection, and Community Action.”

The conference provided a platform to strengthen dialogue and collaboration on older persons’ rights, access to healthcare, income security, social protection and community-based support. Discussions emphasized the need to move beyond recognizing the contributions of older persons to ensuring their rights, dignity and well-being are protected through practical action.

A key highlight was the launch of the Sensitization Booklet on Older Persons and Ageing in Kenya. The booklet is an important resource for raising awareness about ageing, promoting understanding of older persons’ rights and supporting efforts to address ageism and discrimination. It offers an opportunity to strengthen sensitization among communities, service providers and other stakeholders, helping bridge the gap between policy commitments and everyday experiences of older persons.

Advancing healthy ageing requires sustained action beyond a single commemorative event. It calls for accessible services, effective social protection and continued efforts to ensure that every older person can live with dignity, security and independence.

Older persons’ rights must be understood, respected and upheld—every day.