Civil Society calls for universal pension law for older persons in Uganda
Kampala, Uganda — Civil society organizations have urged the Ugandan government to enact a specific law that mandates the implementation of a universal pension scheme for older persons across the country.
This call was made during the launch of a new research paper evaluating the performance and structure of universal pension schemes in seven countries. The event brought together key stakeholders committed to advancing the welfare of Uganda’s elderly population.
The study, spearheaded by the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER), examined the financing models and implementation strategies of pension schemes in Kenya, Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa, and Mauritius.
Speaking at the launch, ISER’s Executive Director, Ms. Angella Kasule, emphasized the need for legislative action to guarantee social protection for older persons.
“The report provides critical evidence that a universal, rights-based pension is not only achievable but essential for ensuring dignity and equity for older persons,” Ms. Kasule said.
Government officials, particularly from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, welcomed the recommendation. Mr. Stephen Kasaija, Head of Expanding Social Protection at the Ministry, acknowledged the proposal’s importance.
“As the Ministry of Gender, we have made those proposals to the government, and we’ve been assured that as the budgetary space improves, they will consider lowering the qualifying age for older persons,” Mr. Kasaija stated.
Currently, Uganda operates the Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE) program, which provides a monthly stipend of Shs25,000 to eligible individuals aged 80 and above.
However, civil society organizations argue that this is not enough. They are advocating for the scheme to be expanded to include all citizens aged 60 and above, in line with global best practices and the rising cost of living.
As Uganda grapples with a growing elderly population and increasing demands for social protection, the call for a comprehensive legal framework on universal pensions grows louder. Stakeholders believe that timely action could transform the lives of thousands of older Ugandans, promoting dignity, inclusion, and economic security in their later years.
