Tanzania is joining the global community in observing the International Day of Awareness and Prevention of Elder Abuse on June 15, 2025.
This annual commemoration, established by the United Nations under Resolution 66/127, aims to raise awareness and take action against the widespread issue of abuse targeting older persons ranging from physical and emotional to psychological and economic harm.
The national theme for this year, “Older Persons Are a National Treasure – Let’s Protect and Care for Them,” underscores the government’s message: elders deserve dignity, safety, and respect.
In Tanzania, older persons constitute approximately 6% of the population, according to the 2022 National Population and Housing Census.
This translates to over 3.4 million individuals, with women making up the majority. As life expectancy increases and access to health and basic services improves, the government has emphasized the importance of ensuring that this growing demographic receives appropriate care and protection.
Significant progress has been made through initiatives such as free medical identification cards for vulnerable elders under the Improved Community Health Fund (ICHF) and the ongoing "MZEE KWANZA" campaign, which calls for prioritising elder care across all public service points.
The Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups also supports 13 government-run homes for the elderly and works in collaboration with 18 privately operated facilities to provide shelter and support for those in need.
In addition, Tanzania has built a unique network of 20,768 Elder Advisory Councils, grassroots bodies that serve both to represent the interests of older citizens and to provide policy input.
These councils are instrumental in promoting civic values, offering guidance to the youth, and advising local authorities on elder-related issues.
The government has also completed a comprehensive review of its 2003 National Ageing Policy, resulting in a 2024 edition that is now being distributed to enhance service provision and policy direction.
This renewed framework aims to align national efforts with contemporary challenges and best practices for elder care.
Despite these advances, the issue of elder abuse remains a concern. According to Tanzania Police Force statistics, reported killings of older persons often linked to harmful traditional beliefs have decreased from 152 cases in 2023 to 138 in 2024.
While this represents progress, officials stress that continued vigilance and public cooperation are vital.
Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, has called on Tanzanians to report early signs of abuse and to reject all forms of mistreatment of older persons.
She also urged media professionals to play an active role in public education and reporting, and asked Regional Commissioners to lead community-level observances of the day with a strong focus on legal rights, protection, and the overall well-being of the elderly.
Dr. Gwajima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to taking firm legal action against any individual or group found to be involved in acts of violence or discrimination against the elderly.
“Our elders are the foundation of our society,” she stated. “Let us honour their legacy by ensuring they live in dignity and peace.”