Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has urged Tanzanians to strengthen their participation in caring for elderly people, saying shifting global economic conditions and reduced donor support now require greater community responsibility in social welfare.
Dr Nchemba made the appeal on Monday, June 29, 2026, when he officiated a fundraising gala for the construction of the Petra Elderly Centre held at Serena Hotel in Dar es Salaam.
He said Tanzania is witnessing a steady rise in the elderly population, driven by improved healthcare services and increased life expectancy, a trend that calls for stronger and more inclusive systems to support senior citizens.
The Prime Minister stressed that older people remain a vital national asset, describing them as custodians of wisdom, experience and historical memory that should be preserved and utilised in building society.
He noted that while the government continues to improve services for elderly people through policies, programmes and budgetary support, sustainable care can only be achieved through broader participation from citizens, the private sector, religious institutions and development partners.
According to him, changing lifestyles and socio-economic patterns have made traditional family support systems less sufficient, creating a need for structured and modern approaches to elderly care.
He commended the Petra Elderly Centre initiative, saying it represents an important model that will provide accommodation, healthcare, psychological support and social engagement opportunities for older persons, while also enabling intergenerational learning between the elderly and young people.
Dr Nchemba said the government will continue to support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable groups, insisting that development must go hand in hand with social protection and human dignity.
Earlier, Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups Eng. Maryprisca Mahundi said the government is implementing the National Ageing Policy of 2003, revised in 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen elderly welfare services across the country.
She said Sh1 billion has been allocated in the 2026/2027 financial year to improve social welfare centres, including those serving the elderly and other vulnerable groups, while legal reforms are also underway to enhance protection of their rights.
Founder of the Petra Elderly Centre, Dr Stergomena Tax, said the project aims to ensure elderly citizens live with dignity and continue contributing to society through their knowledge and experience.
She said the first phase of construction is 24.5 per cent complete and requires about Sh3.6 billion for completion, adding that the facility will integrate care services with programmes that connect the elderly and youth to preserve values, culture and knowledge.
Dar es Salaam Regional Elders Council Chairperson Salum Matimbwa welcomed government efforts to strengthen elderly welfare policies but called for acceleration of a dedicated law to further protect the rights and dignity of older persons.
The event brought together government officials, private sector players, religious leaders, civil society organisations and development partners, in a broad appeal for greater national commitment to improving the lives of elderly citizens.
